1997 Chaparral 2330 Bowrider - Minor Restore and Refit

[NorthwestChap]

Re: 1997 Chaparral 2330 Bowrider - Minor Restore and Refit

The first layer of CSM was going down pretty good. What I didn't count on was the sun peeking out from around the garage. Before I could get the CSM to fully wet out and smoothed down, the resin gelled. Out with the grinder, and a little better planning for next time. The 1208 went down nicely.

 

[NorthwestChap]

Re: 1997 Chaparral 2330 Bowrider - Minor Restore and Refit

The next layers when down without a hitch. I sanded a bit between coats to help level the deck.

 

[NorthwestChap]

Re: 1997 Chaparral 2330 Bowrider - Minor Restore and Refit

What do you folks think?

This? >>


Or this? >>

 

[GT1000000]

Re: 1997 Chaparral 2330 Bowrider - Minor Restore and Refit

They both look to be 5.7L's
If I could I would stuff both in there...
What are the main differences...besides the yellow plug wires...

 

[NorthwestChap]

Re: 1997 Chaparral 2330 Bowrider - Minor Restore and Refit

If I could I would stuff both in there...

I wish.

The first is a Merc GEN+ 325 hp 5.7L crate engine. It's basically a newer version of the one I have, with the addition of vortec heads and intake. New wire harness, Thunderbolt V ignition, Weber 750cfm carb, etc.

The second is their in-house version, 315hp 5.7L vortec. Delco Voyager ignition, Edelbrock 600cfm carb.

I don't think I can go wrong with either. I am leaning towards the Merc GEN+.

 

[GT1000000]

Re: 1997 Chaparral 2330 Bowrider - Minor Restore and Refit

Decided to check out the site, and I honestly have to say, I am more confused now...
So many variables and so many choices...
I generally prefer more HP, in anything...
But comparing apples to apples, or at least as close as possible in this case...the "Bronze" version compared to the "GEN+"...
The bronze would win out on cost...considering they are both 2013 blocks, with all new internals...
Looking to the "Gold" version, it is even more complete for less green than the basic "GEN+", if you need the peripherals...
The "GEN+" is built slightly stouter, both internally and with some of the add-ons...but unless all of the peripherals, like the risers, etc...can be transferred...I would be leaning towards the "Gold" version...
Sorry, may not be of much help in deciding, but might give you more to think about...:facepalm:
Best of Luck and have Fun deciding!
GT1M

 

[NorthwestChap]

Re: 1997 Chaparral 2330 Bowrider - Minor Restore and Refit

Yes those were my considerations as well. But, I did decide...

 

[NorthwestChap]

Re: 1997 Chaparral 2330 Bowrider - Minor Restore and Refit

I was able to get the engine out with my tractor, but the tractor disappeared during the divorce. I needed a way to get the engine into the boat, so I assembled my wood and metal working team to construct a gantry. After picking up some metal and lumber, my team went to work, with one on the chop saw, another on the drill press, and one helping me with the welding. We soon had these braces and brackets.




We then cut the pressure treated beams and drilled for the braces.





A little paint and we had everything ready to put together.

 

[NorthwestChap]

Re: 1997 Chaparral 2330 Bowrider - Minor Restore and Refit

My team assembled the now massive structure and then we were able to get the beast upright.



We attached the chain hoist and did a little load testing.



I figure if it can lift the rear of my one ton crew cab, it can lift a boat engine. The rear wheels are off the ground in this photo.



It's not small.

 

[jbcurt00]

Re: 1997 Chaparral 2330 Bowrider - Minor Restore and Refit

Are you sure your not planning a fracking operation in your driveway?

Nice derrick :faint2:

I must have missed the boat rehab episode of My Three Sons..... Great looking support crew ya got working for ya!

Congrats, hopefully they'll enjoy (& remember) working on the boat as much as they will using the boat!

Make a decision on the motor yet?

 

[GT1000000]

Re: 1997 Chaparral 2330 Bowrider - Minor Restore and Refit

Now that is a mighty fine looking crew and one heck of a gantry!
Very Impressive!

 

[NorthwestChap]

Re: 1997 Chaparral 2330 Bowrider - Minor Restore and Refit

Thanks jbcurt00 and GT1M. I'm sure they will remember working on it as well as the good times to come.

jb, I did decide. The reveal will come soon.

 

[NorthwestChap]

Re: 1997 Chaparral 2330 Bowrider - Minor Restore and Refit

Besides the deck, almost everything else is covered in carpet; seat bases, bulkheads, ski locker hatch, etc.

 

[NorthwestChap]

Re: 1997 Chaparral 2330 Bowrider - Minor Restore and Refit

Areas not covered in carpet are painted black and most are peeling.

 

[NorthwestChap]

Re: 1997 Chaparral 2330 Bowrider - Minor Restore and Refit

Even the engine cover (doghouse), is partially carpet covered. I really, really hate carpet glue.

 

[GT1000000]

Re: 1997 Chaparral 2330 Bowrider - Minor Restore and Refit

It is still a royal pain to remove no matter, but one of these works pretty good...

 

[NorthwestChap]

Re: 1997 Chaparral 2330 Bowrider - Minor Restore and Refit

I am going to remove all carpet and paint, and then fiberglass and gelcoat the plywood. I want everything easy to clean and low maintenance. A lot of extra work, but should pay off in the future.

 

[NorthwestChap]

Re: 1997 Chaparral 2330 Bowrider - Minor Restore and Refit

It is still a royal pain to remove no matter, but one of these works pretty good...

What is it?

 

[GT1000000]

Re: 1997 Chaparral 2330 Bowrider - Minor Restore and Refit

Ooops! sorry, I meant to mention that little detail...
It is an eraser wheel that you can put on a drill motor...used to remove decals, vinyl lettering and most of the worst of adhesives...
There are several types available...
I use one that's a little more for pro use, but costs quite a bit more...

 

[NorthwestChap]

Re: 1997 Chaparral 2330 Bowrider - Minor Restore and Refit

Interesting, might have to try it. Thanks.