Got a few hours with the SS this weekend after doing some troubleshooting and maintenance on my UIL's (Uncle in Law) 76 6 hp fisherman. New coils, cleaned and regapped points, cleaned and overhauled carb, and new impeller kit. It hasn't seen any maintenace since he bought it in the early 90's. Backup motor for his setup in Canada, discovered some problems this summer. I digress. So anyways, I was able to clean out the floatation and debris, brushed the corrosion off the transom which has some minor pitting but integrity is still intact. I will follow Watermann's advice and fill with Marine Tex or JB Weld. I was able to cut off the U-bolts which held on the bow post to the trailer and it does seem that it will make a nice fit. Of course I have to weigh the tongue once the boat is put back together.
The trailer will need a bit of work such as replacing the keel rollers, shocks, and adjustments.
The only damage to hull I can see, besides the screws posted above. A minor dent, which you may notice at center.
Port hull looking aft. Hull looks good and bunk looks functional. I may replace with a contemporary marine carpet covered wooden bunk.
Likewise for the starboard hull looking aft.
Mid-keel.
Shocks have seen better days, as well as the springs.
I've decided to mount a great running spare 89 Force 85 hp I have. I've got a lot of spare parts and two powerheads in case something goes wrong. The Johnson needs a lot of work and its something I don't want holding up the (re)float date.
Sometime this week I plan to pressure wash the hull, remove the epoxy and treat with 50/50 vinegar/distilled water than a good rinse off. Hopefully I can get the paint job done before it gets too cold. I will be using WoodOnGlass's tractor paint procedure. We'll see how the funding is when I get to that point.
