1978 Cee Bee Avenger Semi-Resto

[sYnOnYx]

So this is my newest boat project, and hoping on keeping this one for a few years. I want to get her running awesome so we can enjoy her for a few years. I like the older boats and the tower of power.

The good:
Mercury 1400 / 140HP motor
Hull is in great Shape, Paint still shines (Could use a wax)
Trailer is good shape, Good tires & Bearings
Interior Vinyl in Good shape
Foot Throttle
Swim Deck
Gas Tank was emptied before last storage
Motor fired when I got it

The Bad:
Motor isn't starting now and Cyl 3 has a compression of 60psi when all of the others were 120-123psi
Possible bad Head Gasket or Motor rebuild needed
Trim rams need rebuild
Will of course need a water pump kit
Will Need new gear oil
Could use some new plugs
Needs new battery and the terminals need some work ( Shoddy wiring )
Should be safe and replace shift and throttle cables
Interior needs carpet

My total investment so far - $600

Anyways here's the pics:

 

[sYnOnYx]

Re: 1978 Cee Bee Avenger Semi-Resto

Day 1 - Replaced trailer lights and wiring, Tested good

Day 2 - Tried to fire motor using a Jump start from my SUV, No Joy. Had fuel for sure and air. Couldn't check spark cause it was only myself. Checked compression. All cylinders but #3(60Psi) had 120-123psi compression.

Best Case: Head gasket
Worst Case: Needs a rebuild

At this point I will be taking it to a local Mercury Doctor on Friday. He has been working on them and racing them since the 70's so he knows them well. I like to work on my own stuff but I also like the opinion of an expert.

 

[zool]

Re: 1978 Cee Bee Avenger Semi-Resto

thats a cool little boat, looks in good shape too....I bet those seats get hot..