Need an Opinion or two !!

[DarkeMaster]

I have this 1947 17' Wooden Dory (& Trailer) that I got for free from a Craigslist Ad. After repairing the rotted wood on the hull and floor of the hull (It sat for twenty years) and completely sanding & putting on a coat of primer, I am thinking about cutting off the minicabin/wind Screen (or whatever it is) and replacing it with a fiberglass shell deck and cutty cabin and adding power, stereo, electronics and other modern toys. I have a 1976 Chrysler 55hp outboard to push her.

My thoughts are somewhat torn. I know that by doing all of this work I will probably never be able to get out of her what I put into her and I will be taking a cool old boat and making it something totally different (A true one of a kind). I guess my question is; should I restore her or renovate completely?

Any thoughts?

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Need an Opinion or two !!

looking at her, i don't think she will take the weight. why not just upgrade the electronics. put a bimini over the back. 55 should push her pretty well. i think i would configure a splash well from under the transom, up the the seat, using it for the seat back. bring it up the the sides of the boat.

 

[sc_shane]

Re: Need an Opinion or two !!

First of all - what a neat looking setup! I've never seen anything like that before! Very cool - good luck with the restoration!

I'm with tashasdaddy - I would throw a bimini over the back and turn that into a semi-enclosed setup. Trick it out with some neat electronics and some nice seating, and you will have a unique ride! Best of luck to ya!

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: Need an Opinion or two !!

Keep it simple. Looks good.

What is the intended use? I would clean it up and finish what is there. A simple fish finder minimum electronics and enjoy.

 

[DarkeMaster]

Re: Need an Opinion or two !!

Thanks guys,

I have been really torn about which to do...I really like the look of it but it offers no protection and I really want to have some shade when I am pulling out the big ones off half moon bay. I like the Bimini idea a lot...Hmm

(What I really want is a small cabin cruiser to sleep in on the SF bay. Just can't afford it right now)

Dman