Re: 1974 Thunderbird Formula 190 Sports Camper
Do you own her or are you considering buying her? Are you sentimentally attached to her? Is the Hull Sound? Plan for the worst and hope for the best. A total gut job on a craft this size is a major undertaking. If, BIG IF, you have the time, baskic skills, willingness, inside place to work on it and money to take on this project AND it is the kind of boat you would want to buy if you went out to buy a new one, then Yeah, i'd say it's worth it. In my opinion your task should be to ensure that the drive train was sound and restorable. If not then no way would I recommend taking this project on. If it is good to go, then like Bond-o says. 5 Grand and 500 hrs of work will give you a real nice craft. If your time is not considered into the formula then you'll be way ahead. Where are you gunna buy a boat like her for 5 to 7 Grand???
When you're done, she'll be as good if not better than new and you will know for sure she is sound and will last for years. With another used boat you never know what you're getting. When you do it yourself you're guaranteed it's done right. You WON'T make any money off her if you try and sell her but if you're wanting a boat that you can keep in the family and enjoy for years to come, then this project would be well worth your efforts. You'll have all the help you need from the forum members.
Your decision.
