1971 17' Invader Tri-Hull Restoration, The Madness Begins

[Mud Puppy]

Re: 1971 17' Invader Tri-Hull Restoration, The Madness Begins

I also wanted to say that I had knew there would be a lot of weight thrown on the tongue after pulling the engine, but didn't realize just how much difference there would be. The old trailer jack was just about to the end of its life expectancy so the Captain bought me a new one and I put it on a few days back. I'll have to take it off when I sand blast the trailer, but this one should do the trick for quite some time, and it was on sale too.

Below are before and after pics:

 

[Mud Puppy]

Re: 1971 17' Invader Tri-Hull Restoration, The Madness Begins

I also wanted to post some photos of the carburetor before and after I rebuilt it. The only photos I have of it before I rebuilt it are when it was mounted on the engine before I pulled it from the boat. I wish I had thought to take some of it without the spark arrestor on it. It was really nasty looking down the venturi past the choke plate, but surprisingly enough the bowl was pretty clean.

Below are the before photos:






and this is what it looked like once back together:







I had to update something that showed the AFTER condition because I'm sure by now you all must be thinking that this is just a demolition thread and not a restoration thread.

It was really nice out today, but all of the frozen ground and the snow has left everything a real mess outside and with all of the traveling we have done in the previous two days left this old man worn out.

I was able to put Ducky's toddler bed back together today. It wasn't dry enough after refinishing it Friday to take it with us went we went back home for his birthday.

Well, I think that's all I have for this installment. I promise once it drys up enough to figure out what is wrong with the Blazer, I will try to get back on boat. I want to get the transom put back in so bad I can taste it.

 

[GT1000000]

Re: 1971 17' Invader Tri-Hull Restoration, The Madness Begins

Awesome progress MP,
Glad to hear the yungun got him a nice sturdy place for napping and had a fun 1st B-day...
Carb looks great and the new trailer jack is sweet...make sure you slather some good synthetic marine grease over all the moving parts and keep a good coating of protectant oil over the rest of it to keep functioning and looking like new...
Really like the detailed schematics of the boat...makes me wish I had learned to use one of those fancy drawing programs...I just fuddle my way through with scrap paper, stubby pencil and the occasional MS Paint sketch...:facepalm:

BTW, I know sand paper can get real expensive...I work with it everyday...I also know it's probably too late for this suggestion, but if you need more straight line sand paper, go to your nearest auto body supply house and ask for the grit you need in a roll form...much cheaper compared to the pre-cut stuff, and you can pull exactly the length you need...

Keep up the great work!

 

[glnbnz]

Re: 1971 17' Invader Tri-Hull Restoration, The Madness Begins

Yeah those storage containers really come in handy. Especially if your work area isn't close to where you store your tools. I had that issue :facepalm:

Nice work on the carb

 

[Mud Puppy]

Re: 1971 17' Invader Tri-Hull Restoration, The Madness Begins

Awesome progress MP,
Glad to hear the yungun got him a nice sturdy place for napping and had a fun 1st B-day...
Carb looks great and the new trailer jack is sweet...make sure you slather some good synthetic marine grease over all the moving parts and keep a good coating of protectant oil over the rest of it to keep functioning and looking like new...
Really like the detailed schematics of the boat...makes me wish I had learned to use one of those fancy drawing programs...I just fuddle my way through with scrap paper, stubby pencil and the occasional MS Paint sketch...:facepalm:

BTW, I know sand paper can get real expensive...I work with it everyday...I also know it's probably too late for this suggestion, but if you need more straight line sand paper, go to your nearest auto body supply house and ask for the grit you need in a roll form...much cheaper compared to the pre-cut stuff, and you can pull exactly the length you need...

Keep up the great work!

Thanks GT for all of the good words. When I first took the engine out, I thought I had messed up big time. The tongue weight increased proportionality to the weight I removed plus the added weight from the axle being AFT of center. Wasn't hard to take off the tongue Saturday, but was a real bugger to lift back up manually on Sunday Evening.

The first drawing I did was in the old Tandy Paint/Draw program they had until the Senior Electrical Engineer came in and seen what I was using to make my drawings in. My supervisor didn't want to spend any money on getting me "set up". That was many years ago and I am using a free software now and it works just like its big brother, just 2D and 3D Wire only, limited on Modeling capabilities.

I only need a few sheets of the in-line paper and they were out of the bulk rolls and straight sanding paper for it. I had to buy self adhesive sheets which drove the price up and out of the park. We already buy at least one roll of paper here a week of the 5" & 6" DA paper and I know what it is going to cost when I get to the finish on the hull...

OUCH!

Yeah those storage containers really come in handy. Especially if your work area isn't close to where you store your tools. I had that issue :facepalm:

Nice work on the carb

Thanks Glenn! I didn't want just a tote and this was fairly cheap. I was afraid to leave anything in the Blazer from one time to the next and I was afraid that I would leave something at home when I needed it at the shop.

And Thanks to both of you for the comments on the carburetor.

Amazing what a 30 min bath in carburetor dip will do for a nasty looking carb isn't it! I was beginning to think I might needed to go get another gallon of dip as it was working pretty slow, but it finally got the job done thus saving me from a "Captains Mast" for spending more on the boat than I was budgeted.

 

[Mud Puppy]

Re: 1971 17' Invader Tri-Hull Restoration, The Madness Begins

Hi everyone! Hope everything is going well for everyone.

It was a beautiful day here today; a little windy this morning but that died down this afternoon. It was still 59 here after work, just ran out of daylight way too early to work on the Blazer. It's setting in a lob-lolly at the corner of the garage just in front of the boat. I could have pulled it in to work on it but chose not to just yet.

I got my fumed silica a few days back. I ordered a one pound bag with a order of microspheres and glass beads with a company order. It was next to nothing cost wise and I couldn't pass up the chance. I already have quite a bit of 1/4" chopped glass so I should be good when I go to slather in my transom and stringers. I am probably going to use some structural glass for the tabbing and go back over everything with CSM once I order it.

The thing that messed with me was the silica came in a double bag plastic bag. Fine for storage, but not very practical when it comes to dispensing. So with all of the snow and ice we have had this year I latched on to the ice-melt containers which are plastic, have a removable pop up lid and seemed like just what the Doctor ordered.






I found these nifty little storage containers that have fairly decent size to them and the snap together in a stack. I put 1/4 chopped stand glass in one of these and have a second for microspheres or more glass.

I photo copied the info that came with the silica and I am going to contact cement them to the ice-melt jugs so it won't be confused with the original content.

 

[Mud Puppy]

Re: 1971 17' Invader Tri-Hull Restoration, The Madness Begins

So the sterndrive I removed back in October, sets quietly out in the garage patently waiting on spring.

I built a 2x4 stand and mounted it for winter storage.

It's not much, but it serves the purpose and it only took 3 eight footers to make, so I have like 7 bucks in it counting the screws. I did get #2 SPF and hand picked getting dense boards which were solid and showing no signs of cracks or open knots. Small encased knots are alright as long as they are solid and I wasn't worried about barky wood as it doesn't affect strength.

Excuse the mess, it's pushed back into the corner of the garage. I wasn't going to drag a bunch of stuff out just for a photo op and then be left with having to push it all back into place.






I made it extra wide so I wouldn't have to remove the Hydrofoil canards and I made it so the drive's rudder is off of the F/F by a couple of inches so I wouldn't have to hoist the drive up in the air putting it on the stand. It rested pretty well on the input shaft housing of the upper unit, enough that I could balance it one handed while I installed bolts through the 2x4s and into the mounting holes of the drive. I thought about mounting rollers to it, but the Captain moved it one afternoon while I was at work; it glides along on the floor pretty well the way it is so I didn't install any.

Well, I guess that is it for tonight: I am going to go hang out on the Trailer Forum a while. I've got some issues with it and since I don't have a clue as to what I am doing, I thought I would edumacate myself.

 

[sphelps]

Re: 1971 17' Invader Tri-Hull Restoration, The Madness Begins

Good idea on labeling the cabosil .. It prolly wouldn't melt the ice to good .
I bought some in the qt plastic canisters from one place but I got a better deal at another place that comes in 1 gal bags . So I just refill the jugs .

 

[clemsparks]

Re: 1971 17' Invader Tri-Hull Restoration, The Madness Begins

Hey there,

Neat buildup...thanks for the detailed info! I'm also from MO and have an invader (though, there are probably more differences than similarities in our boats). I'll be following along and if you ever find yourself up in Columbia and want to cruise around on the Big Muddy, just holler!

Thanks again,
Clem

 

[Mud Puppy]

Re: 1971 17' Invader Tri-Hull Restoration, The Madness Begins

Good idea on labeling the cabosil .. It prolly wouldn't melt the ice to good .
I bought some in the qt plastic canisters from one place but I got a better deal at another place that comes in 1 gal bags . So I just refill the jugs .

Sorry I'm just getting home from a long day SP. Up before 500 hrs, at work 9 hrs, then a 4-1/2 round trip over to Ft. Lenard Wood. Boy what a day and I get to do it all over again tomorrow, all but the trip to Ft. Lenard Wood that is.

Yeah, not only is it to prevent from being used as ice-melt, but if our grands ever come to visit, there will at least be the Child Warning Label on them, however, only one of them is old enough to read.

Hey there,

Neat buildup...thanks for the detailed info! I'm also from MO and have an invader (though, there are probably more differences than similarities in our boats). I'll be following along and if you ever find yourself up in Columbia and want to cruise around on the Big Muddy, just holler!

Thanks again,
Clem

Welcome aboard Clem! I was so glad to see there IS someone out there with an Invader. I just knew there had to be at least one more LOL! From what I have gathered here and after about a 3 month search, I have come to the conclusion that the were very prevalent back in the 70s and the 80s and they were manufactured in several locations across the U.S. before becoming defunct with the balance being sold out!

It may be some time before I can ever get to work on it again. This past week I have had a Military pre-audit, created five Engineer Repairs on various A/C parts, and this week had extra long distance driving in and still more at the end of the week, plus we are having a Daytona Party this weekend. It is a muddy mess here, but it is warming up some finally.

I had family that lived in Columbia for years; my Aunt and Uncle. He was a Professor at the collage, and my Aunt taught school for a few years there.

If I do ever make it to splash down, I do plan on taking on more than just the local lakes and will take you up on the offer and likewise, if you should ever make it down to Tater Lake or Stockton, they both are just a half hour or so to the closest ramps on my end, plus there are all the State Line lakes south of Springfield.

 

[Mud Puppy]

Re: 1971 17' Invader Tri-Hull Restoration, The Madness Begins

Not much change in the "Possible Restoration" of the old Invader. It still patiently awaits some attention.

My wife had a family member leave this old earth on Thursday evening. Things are kinda chaotic at the moment.

Will return in a few days with some updates hopefully!

 

[hawk200282]

Re: 1971 17' Invader Tri-Hull Restoration, The Madness Begins

In all seriousness, nice work so far! Teardown is fun

Following along.

 

[Mud Puppy]

Re: 1971 17' Invader Tri-Hull Restoration, The Madness Begins

Very Good there Hawk, and Welcome Aboard!

Hope you don't get discouraged while I'm waiting around to get back on it. I'm ready, just day-to-day gets in the way sometimes.

A little more grinding glass, and I'm ready for the transom to go back in.

 

[Mud Puppy]

Re: 1971 17' Invader Tri-Hull Restoration, The Madness Begins

I was just setting here having withdrawal symptoms from not getting to do anything more on the boat and it appears I am having the same symptoms from not adding anything to the thread as well.

Back last fall when I started sanding on the boat I asked for help; one it is hard for this fat old man to get back up from getting down and with the added stoop and bent contortions one has to get into to do some of the sanding I have also found without anyone around, I tend to spend more time in these convulsive postures than I really should during these sessions.

I thought with some added help, I could trade off from time to time, and there would be the added benefit of someone there to cheer me on. I have found that grinding glass is way worse than going to get a filling. You might get someone to go with you to the dentist, but when it comes time to set in the chair, you find yourself alone. Apparently those that came with you to possibly drive you home once you're out, are actually there for there own warp sense of humor, just to see you drool.

So being the free thinker I am and tending to think outside of the box, I posted this to one of my Social Networks back a couple months ago. I really thought it would pull them in to help with the project:

For anyone who is interested:

I will be conducting a training seminar tomorrow. This is a onetime offer and may be booked so please respond QUICKLY! Time is of the essence.

It will be an all day event with "Hands On" practical experience giving one the confidence and the knowledge to excel in an exciting field of endeavor!

And the good part is it is COMPLETELY FREE! That's right, COMPLETELY FREE! (Gratuitous Tips are gladly welcomed and will not be rejected provided they are substantial and under the table and that no one sees you give it to me)

This is what you'll get:

* Advice from the expert.
* A thorough understanding of the process.
* An In Depth look at what some people do for a living
* An Impressive 8 and one half inch by an Amazing 11 inch Commemorative Certificate with your name in a Fancy Bold Font Print and Dated printed on Bleach White Copy Paper suitable for framing or folding. This has only recently been added and is a keepsake that can be enjoyed for days and hours to come! It may even be something you will want to pass on to your children and grandchildren marking such an occasion! (can be printed in other Fonts for a small additional cost)
* Photo Op with the Pro including his autograph (must bring your own phone or camera)(actual autograph at minor additional cost)
* Act Now and receive a second Photo with the Pro absolutely free! You only pay Shipping and Handling

In only 10 to 15 minutes of instruction (and 8 - 10 hours of intense On The Job Training) you will be able to work in the fabulous and lucrative field of Fiberglass Cutting and Grinding.

Those that respond need only wear old clothes that cover every inch of exposed flesh; tape at the seams and cuffs is also advised.

It is mandatory that you bring you own Personal Protection Gear such as respirators, hearing protection, gloves, face-masks or goggles, footwear, knee-pads, back brace, anti antiperspirant, chap stick, and mouthwash.

A personal supply of 5 to 10 gallons of apple cider vinegar to wash the glass out of your pores is also necessary once you get back home.

Refreshing Water will be served throughout the day at a VERY REASONABLE PRICE.

This is not a Pyramid Scheme but if you get 27 people signed up below you it will be relatively easy for me to not have to do anything at all!

Act Now! *** Openings Are Filling Fast! ***

I really thought this would pull them in...

I believed they would be lining up for blocks, pitching tents and camping in the street, waiting to breakdown my door to respond to this,

but I only had a couple of replies and when questioned about scheduling, seemed to already have something planned for that weekend, whatever weekend I was doing it.


Darn the luck!

 

[sphelps]

Re: 1971 17' Invader Tri-Hull Restoration, The Madness Begins

Put me down for say July 2018 . I may have an opening in my schedule by then ..

 

[Mud Puppy]

Re: 1971 17' Invader Tri-Hull Restoration, The Madness Begins

Well Thanks SP! What was it that hooked your interest? The certificate or the photo op?

 

[GT1000000]

Re: 1971 17' Invader Tri-Hull Restoration, The Madness Begins

Count me in! I should be free right about the same time as S.P.

BTW, just caught your new sig...ound:

 

[Fastatv]

Re: 1971 17' Invader Tri-Hull Restoration, The Madness Begins

I was just setting here having withdrawal symptoms from not getting to do anything more on the boat and it appears I am having the same symptoms from not adding anything to the thread as well.

Back last fall when I started sanding on the boat I asked for help; one it is hard for this fat old man to get back up from getting down and with the added stoop and bent contortions one has to get into to do some of the sanding I have also found without anyone around, I tend to spend more time in these convulsive postures than I really should during these sessions.

I thought with some added help, I could trade off from time to time, and there would be the added benefit of someone there to cheer me on. I have found that grinding glass is way worse than going to get a filling. You might get someone to go with you to the dentist, but when it comes time to set in the chair, you find yourself alone. Apparently those that came with you to possibly drive you home once you're out, are actually there for there own warp sense of humor, just to see you drool.

So being the free thinker I am and tending to think outside of the box, I posted this to one of my Social Networks back a couple months ago. I really thought it would pull them in to help with the project:



I really thought this would pull them in...

I believed they would be lining up for blocks, pitching tents and camping in the street, waiting to breakdown my door to respond to this,

but I only had a couple of replies and when questioned about scheduling, seemed to already have something planned for that weekend, whatever weekend I was doing it.


Darn the luck!

And this didn't work! I'm amazed ! When I was younger, didn't mind working alone, but now, its just more fun having someone work with me on projects, talk, laugh, and there's much to be said for a "team effort" on a project, not to mention the safety aspects, having another around in case of something going wrong. I have a project similar to yours, but not nearly as in depth, and when it warms up a bit, my youngest ( my son, 19 ) is going to help me, he offered, and I will take! ha, ha, ha. Anyway, hopefully you will have someone join in there and help you some, or at least keep you some company. Rick

 

[glnbnz]

Re: 1971 17' Invader Tri-Hull Restoration, The Madness Begins

Ha Ha you should have sold BEER :lol:

 

[Mud Puppy]

Re: 1971 17' Invader Tri-Hull Restoration, The Madness Begins

Count me in! I should be free right about the same time as S.P.

BTW, just caught your new sig...ound:

GT, I'll add you to the list! Oh and about the signature thing, these poor individuals have only recently been brought back into the "Lime-Light" and would have been lost to Maritime History had it not been for the extensive and exhaustive research I have conducted one evening.

Took me the better part of 15 minutes to research their names (I type slow).

And this didn't work! I'm amazed ! When I was younger, didn't mind working alone, but now, its just more fun having someone work with me on projects, talk, laugh, and there's much to be said for a "team effort" on a project, not to mention the safety aspects, having another around in case of something going wrong. I have a project similar to yours, but not nearly as in depth, and when it warms up a bit, my youngest ( my son, 19 ) is going to help me, he offered, and I will take! ha, ha, ha. Anyway, hopefully you will have someone join in there and help you some, or at least keep you some company. Rick

When I was younger, I thought I needed someone to tell me how good I was doing. My dad past when I was 15 and since my only granddad living was up in years, I milked 45 fresh cows every morning and every evening, missing the school bus in the morning, so I drove back roads into town and skipped out on P.E. When I would bring the milk up to put away, I would run out and hop on a tractor and go plow or plant. My day started at 430 hrs and ended somewhere around 2300 hrs. and I learned real quick not to depend on anyone cheering me on. I went on to find out in later life I wanted to work alone, but now just to have someone to talk to from time to would really break up the monotony of it.

Ha Ha you should have sold BEER :lol:

BEER is good, but Germany spoiled me. I do like RUM!