Researching a boat to rebuild, advice?

[NWCafesurfer]

Hi there!

I’m new to the forum, I actually joined iBoats because of the amazing restorations of Chieftains, very inspiring. I’m a steel worker by trade and would love to do a restoration, with the help and advice of this forum of course! Not only is the Admiral onboard, she supports it!

Our first boat was a Tin 12’ Mirrocraft then a 13’ Smoker Craft Alaskan w/ trailer and 15hp outboard.
We’ve recently decided we want a boat to cruise Puget Sound comfortably. Probably in the 18-22ft range. Biggest limiting factor is our truck a late model S-10 4x4 Sooooooo were looking at aluminum hulls..

Which brings me to the Starcraft Islander. It appears to have everything we’d want in a boat:
Hard top enclosed bridge, nice cuddy cabin for overnight, appropriate deadrise for mild to moderate weather, fishable, good size and weight, durable and affordable (compared to Arimas or C-Dorys) and can be re-powered with an outboard.

We’re not in a position to buy just yet, and haven’t decided on a make/ model. Any advice on selecting a boat for this project? Is there any hulls that you’d recommend I research?
Id be ok with fabricating outboard motor brackets or a lightweight Hard Top so long as the hull can handle it.
Most common use would be cruising Puget Sound, overnighting in protected coves, some fishing and making memories. Speed isn’t the most important. More concerned with safety, stability and protection from the elements.

Stop by, say Hi and give me your thoughts!

- Matt

 

[Scott Danforth]

most outboard conversions dont go very well. what is wrong with an I/O?

 

[NWCafesurfer]

Hey Scott,
I guess my concern with I/O’s is availability? Being new to this I can wrap my head around complete restorations and a new outboard. Haven’t thought about a new I/O setup for a restored boat.. Are these commonly sold as a drop in kit?
I’d want new running gear rather than maintain or update an older I/O for our project.

 

[444]

You're already miles ahead by looking at an aluminum hull. Don't get weak and start looking at rotten fiberglass projects.

 

[Scott Danforth]

Hey Scott,
I guess my concern with I/O’s is availability? Being new to this I can wrap my head around complete restorations and a new outboard. Haven’t thought about a new I/O setup for a restored boat.. Are these commonly sold as a drop in kit?
I’d want new running gear rather than maintain or update an older I/O for our project.

yes, they are called long-tails which are sold from controls to prop.

however 90% of the boats out there even with 30+ year old I/O's that have been properly maintained will get you another 30 years of use prior to needing replacement.

I say find the islander first, then go from there. if you can find one with a 4.3/alpha combo, it will be nearly bullet proof.

BTW, my S-10 blazer 4x4 had a 5800# towing capacity. so depending on your axle ratio you should be able to pull more than you think.