Information needed for 1964 Alumacraft Maracaibo

[outdoorsman1962]

Ever since I found the 18' open Alumacraft (about 6 years) and found out about the "Queen Marie", I have searched for another Alumacraft along those lines. The 18' boat was great for more then one person but too big to take out daily with a back condition so I sold her and remodeled a 15' 1974 Mirrocraft for myfishing needs. A few weeks ago I found the Maracaibo and from the minute I saw her I had to have it. The owner was selling in order to settle a estate and had completely gone over the 1971 40hp Evinrude. I heard that motor run and after a problem with the starter she was on her way home. The first thing I did was email Alumacraft with the serial number and got the information on her history. She is a 1964, built in 1963 and only option available was the convertible top which I wish I had.
I have a few questions I'm hoping you good people can answer.
1) What is the " red thing"" on the left of the ignition? It is behind a piece of plastic and about the size of a pack of cigarettes. I would post pic but in Dad's garage until I organize my yard.
2) What should I use to have the shine brought back and protect the original paint?
3) How reliable is the cable steering system? I never owned a older boat.
4) The seats are beautiful but frames are old wood thats starting to come apart so I plan on rebuilding them.Should I re-use the fabric? I know it will never be a show piece but want as original as possible.
I'm sure I will have more questions and will be asking you more but THANK YOU for looking at my new baby.
. [h=1][/h]

 

[outdoorsman1962]

No Title

 

[2hansondeck]

I just acquired a '68 Mirrocraft 14' Ski & Troll with the stock cable steering system. As I was coming into the dock I totally lost steering and was told I should replace the system. I researched my existing system, realized how simple it really is and decided to keep it. The important thing is to watch for any slack in the cable on either side of the motor. Mine was not correctly wrapped around the hub as well. I figured if this system has worked for 58 years it must be salvageable. Good luck,

 

[82rude]

Still with us o.p.?Post a pic of part in question 1.Cable steering is perfectly safe .Very nice looking rig .

 

[2hansondeck]

Hey 82rude, can you help me find a windshield for my '68 14' ski and troll?

 

[outdoorsman1962]

Still with us o.p.?Post a pic of part in question 1.Cable steering is perfectly safe .Very nice looking rig .

I'm so sorry it's been a busy Fall becoming a Grandpa. I have the boat covered for winter now but if I keep it, I will take and have a professional CERTIFIED mechanic go over the complete steering and shifting cables and if I'm told to replace, I will try and tackle myself.
We did take it out 4 times and at slow speeds with no one around I adjusted the pulleys and made steering tighter but am not 100% satisfied BUT the ride in that Lil boat is awesome. At the ramp I had nothing but questions and lookers...........felt good to see people wanting to bring back older boats.
The motor is flawless which makes me want to keep it but if I find the Airstream TT I want,((34' er)) it will have to go and get another 12' Meyers "Great Laker"......It's a 73 model to haul on top of truck. Yes I love my toys but running out of room.

BTW........2HANSONDECK, try Checkers Marine in Lasalle Mich or Fishers Marine in Erie Mich..