new project boat

[m_court15]

I just got a 8' hull. I was just wondering what you think I should do to it? What size outboard? Does it need a bilge? What about flotation foam? What type of steering would be the easiest/cheapest?

Also there was a tag on the back that said "jet" that's all the info I have been able to find on it, any help would be appreciated!

the fourth pic is after I took the transom off.

thanks,
Matt

 

[Redeyedwiggler]

Re: new project boat

cool boat man.. I bet a 15 would make that thing sing! It looks like an old kit boat from the 60's.. along the lines of a hydrofoil.
Sort of the personal watercraft of the 60's would have been boats like these and hydro's, also an outboard version of a jet ski would have been a popular kit.
If you got the motor and propulsion of a jet ski that would make a cool project!

 

[sdunt]

Re: new project boat

What about flotation foam? What type of steering would be the easiest/cheapest?

Flotation foam in a boat that size is the foam you are wearing around your chest, a PFD. I don't think you would find enough room in that hull for flotation to make any difference. and if you do, you will find that some thing unusual like a couple of swimming 'noodles' stuffed under the bow is what works.

as for steering, if you're familiar with it, cable over pulley is as easy as teleflex. http://www.duckworksmagazine.com/03/columns/max/05/part2.htm

As for cheap, its whatever you can buy on eBay used. I picked up an old Mercury RideGuide push - pull system a while back for $60. Works great.. Got some extra cable coiled up under the bow, but works nice..

 

[m_court15]

Re: new project boat

thanks for the info and advice, keep it coming!

 

[ezmobee]

Re: new project boat

that motor bracket on the back looks like a Garelick that I just bought it is only rated to take a 15 HP

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: new project boat

what ever you do to it, install a kill lanyard, that you attach to your belt or vest.

 

[m_court15]

Re: new project boat

I will definatley go with a kill switch and a 15 hp. motor. Next question is where is the best place to find a motor? I was hoping to find one around $300, but they are going for a lot more than that on ebay.

 

[jddenham]

Re: new project boat

You should be able to find a 1960's motor for $100 - 200 then plan on spending $100 - 200 in parts to tune it up.