Re: 1983 Wellcraft Elite 210 with Mercruiser 260 Rebuild
The reason I am sharing this experience is to allow inexperienced boaters a view of the expenses a person can run into when refurbishing an old boat. This is my 3rd rebuild. First rebuild was a 1971 Islander MK II 30. After initial repairs such as a roller furling line, and a few other things, over the years I have repowered, rewired, put up new sails, riggings, etc. I have literally replaced everything this side of the wheel. Sailing mag has an issue every year where they discuss several scenarios on such ventures and what to expect. I am an experienced sailor, I have made my way though used cars and engines for about 35 years. That's not to say I know it all. This is my first power boat. I expect it to be considerably cheaper.
That said when you have a problem boat, consider a few things. One, do an overall survey and ask the questions, do you have the financial resources, can you get parts, and do you have the contacts and other resources for repairs
Boat survey:
Engine: The boat is really dirty inside and out. The Mercruiser 260 engine does not turn over. All electrical components, starter, alternator, breaker, etc., are frozen and corroded. More in the back that the front. There is a fair amount of rust on grounds and other bolts. The front panel, gauges, and upper wiring harness are slightly corroded. The engine can be turned by hand. There is no battery, Carburetor appears clogged. Seats need repair. Teak and other parts are all in tact but worn.
Stern Drive: Contrition of the Stern Drive is unknown, but seems ok. It has a broken fin, some minor corrosion, and the cables are frozen. Gas tank and lines seem ok.
Boat Hull: The boat hull is in generally good condition. There are no breaks, paint looks good. A few cracks in the Gel Coat. All the parts to the Teak Bright work, chrome, glass, fittings, are intact.
Physical parts of Boat Hull: The rear of floor will need to be replaced. The well will need to be reglassed. The Trasom appears to be solid. I have helped to rebulid two Transoms on Bear Boats. So I am not to concerned about it. I will beef it up with more glass and galvanized steel. On the inspection, I used the simple tap test. There should be 2 types of sounds with it. One is for the hollow areas. One is for joined areas. The most common problem is the area around the Gimbal Housing. Mine has on off beat sound on the Port side. I don't know if it will be a serous problem yet. But will look into it later. The Stringers from what I can tell, are ok. But that kind of like the guy who surveys your house for the mortgage company and comes back with, "No apparent Mold", and a quick disclaimer.
Trailer: On a scale of one to 10, 10 is bad, the Rusty scale reads 6. One brake wheel is locked up. Tires and rims are shot. The coupler barely works.
History: The boat was purchased from a, ?Spec Buyer?, who got it off Angleboat.com He told me that he talked to the previous owner who said it came from Arizona, (meaning it was a fresh water boat), who had it for 10 years. 2 years ago he lost his job in AZ and moved to Palo Alto. The boat was stored in Port Sonoma for 2 years. (Port Sonoma is a North Bay harbor with a salt air environment with a lot of sunshine).
On the resources issue, I have the funds available. I have a truck and hitch to move it. I have all the tools. The parts for the boat are available on the internet. I have local resources for higher end engine work, mechanic, general repairs, (I will do most of them), trailer work, and seamstress for the cushions. And did I mention a couple of good friends to help out when needed?
