Help!, What is it?

[Kingdirt]

I found this boat in a local classified. Thinking it would be a good resto project. I have contacted the owner, however, he is very elderly. Can really give me NO information, and very difficult to converse with. I asked for the hull number, and he couldnt really understand what I was after. I cannot find Any info or pics, to even give me an idea of what it is. The closest thing I have found is maybe a 1965 Cobria Cuddy? Very similar, but also some major differences (one piece windshield, ect...)

I cant make out the name on the side, looks like Savannha? And when I asked him what it says, he doesnt know. I dont think he walks, So I cant ask him to go out in the field and check for me. Just kinda wanted to know if anyone has any info, before I make the drive. The boat is about 500 miles from me, but I really like the lines and looks. If its structurally sound, I wonder if its worth a couple hundred bucks. (dont think he wants much for it)

 

[robert graham]

Re: Help!, What is it?

Good looking boat, but 500 miles is a long way just for a look-see. Might be a bargain for just a few hundred dollars but hard to tell just from photos. Too bad you don't have a buddy living near the old geezer who could go over and check it out for you. You'd probably want to check trailer, tires, bearings before you drag it back 500 miles! Good Luck!

 

[madurodave]

Re: Help!, What is it?

that is a cool looking rig. I would love to have that as a fix-er-upper. good luck

 

[Kingdirt]

Re: Help!, What is it?

Absolutely!
Its very near the Oregon coast, and IM afraid she may be Salty. But still, Im lookin at it for a complete teardown. Probably best to take a couple sets of Bearings and wheels/tires with me. LOL

bearings and wheels= Check!
Toolbox= check!
VISA card= Check 8-(

 

[Jakebob]

Re: Help!, What is it?

Check the gallery here:

http://www.theclassicboathouse.com/galleryfiberglass.html

Looks close to the Dorsette cruisers. I almost bought a seafair sedan that's very similar. Not much different than any other small old boat. Check the transom and floor!

 

[Huron Angler]

Re: Help!, What is it?

Cool rig

I'd be wary of salt damage as well...but if you plan on restoring the hull and repowering it will be as good as new anyway. The stringers and transom are probably shot already if it's been outdoors on the pacific coast.

Especially sweet is that it's set up for an outboard(probably a bigger one than that Evinrude BTW). Makes if far more valuable than an old siezed I/O.

Good luck!

 

[Home Cookin']

Re: Help!, What is it?

why not hire someone from a local marina to check it out for you? beats a 1000 mile water haul.
Plus you may need a rollback to bring it home. I wouldn't drive that trailer 500 miles.

 

[Kingdirt]

Re: Help!, What is it?

Thanks Jakebob,
definitely lookin like a Dorsett. Scary, cuz I believe they had wood runners embedded IN the glass? I am a bodywork and Paint guy, with a ton of fiberglass and Gelcoat experience, but Im a little scared of rotten wood embedded in fiberglass. Anybody know more?
I do love that its Outboard as well! nothin worse than layin on your belly all day workin on a motor! And yes, Im sure that ol 25 is not nearly enough power. (not countin on it being sound anyway) I do have a little collection of outboards, may need to trade some of my small stuff for a big guy!
My guess is that old fiberglass is heavy as hell? And probably TOP heavy to boot!
great advice on getting a local to go check it out, however, I am self employed (internet business) and have nuthing but time. Maybe a road trip is just what the doctor ordered!
Maybe Ill give him a call and setup a meet for the weekend! Anybody got anymore input, Im all ears.... I appreciate the feedback guys!

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Help!, What is it?

The motor looks a little suspect -- like it is way too small for the boat. Looks like a 28/30 HP Evinrude of 70's vintage.

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: Help!, What is it?

Do not bother the seller looking for a hull identification number......they were not required or standardized until the 70's so even if it has a serial number it will not help. good luck.....

 

[Jakebob]

Re: Help!, What is it?

Thanks Jakebob,
definitely lookin like a Dorsett. Scary, cuz I believe they had wood runners embedded IN the glass? I am a bodywork and Paint guy, with a ton of fiberglass and Gelcoat experience, but Im a little scared of rotten wood embedded in fiberglass. Anybody know more?
/QUOTE]

Probably just means that the floor and stringers are fiberglass covered wood which is the way that most of these old boats (and many many new boats) are built. Look in the restoration section here. Tons and tons of owners are replacing transom, stringers, and floors. The project isn't for the faint of heart, but if you have the time (and it sounds like you might!) you'll have a better-than-new boat in a structural sense when your finished.

Good luck and be sure to let us know how it goes!

Jake

 

[wa_ssv197]

Re: Help!, What is it?

If it is a Dorsett it is missing the upper windshield.