Starting a new project: My First Boat!

[oliviermv]

I am the new owner of $100 boat I found on craigslist near san francisco...

I have wanted a boat for a while and have spent many summers on various lakes wakeboarding/houseboating and would like to get a taste of some saltwater for a change. The boat is (I believe) a 19' 1959 BellBoy (Express Cruiser?) with a 105hp Chrysler engine. I will be going through everything from painting the exterior and redoing the interior wood to refurbishing the outboard. Hopefully I'll even be able to make some improvements along the way...

I just figured I would introduce myself as I will probably be asking plenty of questions and looking for advice from some people who have been through this before.

Also, as an aside, I would eventually like to have a boat capable of cruising up and down the coast (channel islands, santa catalina, etc) and would like some advice as to whether or not this boat would be capable of such excursions or if I will be needing a larger/different type of boat when that time comes.

Thanks in advance and here are some "before" pics...

 

[GreggS]

Re: Starting a new project: My First Boat!

Oliviermv,
I am really looking forward to seeing the progress you with this boat.
That rig has really nice lines.
Take lots of pictures and keep us informed.

GScott

 

[Mark42]

Re: Starting a new project: My First Boat!

Oh wow! An old Bellboy! What a find. What classic 50's shape and lines. I think that boat will be able to do everything you want. I would update the outboard to something made in the last 15 years or so because that old Chrysler will be hard to get parts for. And a new motor will be more fuel effecient, have power tilt/trim and most likely a larger alternator to power the newer electronics you will probably want to add.

At 19' and with high freeboard, I think the Bellboy would be up to crusing the coast. As long as you have experience, good plans, GPS, etc.
Also, a big fuel tank is a must.

Welcome to iboats! You have found the right site for restoring that classic!

 

[F14CRAZY]

Re: Starting a new project: My First Boat!

That's a pretty cool looking boat; should turn out to be worth it. and welcome

 

[mars bar]

Re: Starting a new project: My First Boat!

I have a 17', looks just like that but white.even the trailer looks the same. I love the hull design and wanted an open boat concept so out came the sawsall and off went the cabin. I can't find any reference to a make. your's is in much better shape than mine. shes a treasure hope you show pics when your finished Mars.

 

[BIGcarpy50]

Re: Starting a new project: My First Boat!

Have fun....just a heads up..take your budget and at least double it........I thought i got a good deal on a 400 dollar boat and 400 dollar motor....and another 300 later im still far from done.


BUT GOOD LUCK MAN.....can't wait to see it.

 

[tmcalavy]

Re: Starting a new project: My First Boat!

Nice boat. If it were mine, I'd ditch the Chrysler or part it out to the guys needing Chrysler parts and repower with a similar or slightly larger OMC or Merc, or smaller twin outboards...especially if you plan to cruise offshore or along the coast. Lots of offshore-capable boats run twins...not that much extra expense and a backup motor on board at all times.

 

[jcsercsa]

Re: Starting a new project: My First Boat!

Cool ride she will be sweet when your done !!! cant wait for more !! John

 

[TheWoodCrafter]

Re: Starting a new project: My First Boat!

Very cool boat.
I would love to have a Bellboy.
Good luck with her.

 

[lowkee]

Re: Starting a new project: My First Boat!

Welcome to iboats!

Way to jump right in. That looks like it will be a fun project. Are you sure you want to paint over the already custom paint? I would be tempted to add a 'P' to the end and call it good.

That is one sleek looking machine. Can't wait to see some "after" shots.

 

[oliviermv]

Re: Starting a new project: My First Boat!

Cool.

Thanks for all the responses, advice, and encouragement!

I've posted this on a couple of other forums and have received plenty of good ideas.

To answer a few of the questions...

My current plan (I reserve the right to change this plan at anytime) includes rebuilding the engine I have. It seems complete and according to the previous owner it only has a scored cylinder. I have built numerous engines (all 4 strokes) so I kind of know what I'm doing and figure this would be the cheapest way to get it on the water. This is assuming the rest of the motor checks out...

The next step would be to get a 10-15 hp motor as backup and eventually upgrade to a newer 90-100hp motor as my budget allows.

My budget is about $2K, not including purchase/DMV/etc.

My main concerns are the interior wood including the floor which is completely gone and the stringers which seem solid at first glance but may which need to be redone.

From what I read I can make the exterior look pretty good with some quality paint and some time. Or I may just add that "P" and leave it as is...

As far as radios and electronics, what kind of gear do you guys and/or gals recommend. In addition to lighting, I assume I'll need a radio and possibly a hand held GPS.

Any suggestions/additions?

 

[jcsercsa]

Re: Starting a new project: My First Boat!

what motor is it in there ?? John

 

[tmcalavy]

Re: Starting a new project: My First Boat!

If you can rebuild a 4-stroke, you have the skills/patience to replace the stringers and deck...just takes time/patience. Plenty of threads available through the Search function to provide background and perspective. Locals in your area who cruise the coast can provide info on necessary electronics and possibly show you their arrangement on board...check at your favorite marina/launching spot on a nice boating day.

 

[kaferhaus]

Re: Starting a new project: My First Boat!

Nice find.

You can throw that $2,000 budget out the window right now though.

Just the materials to rebuild the floor and stringers properly are going to eat up at least half of it. Epoxy, fillers, tools, fiberglass are very expensive and you'll have a lot of waste and "do overs" as this is your first rodeo.

Also if the floor is gone likely the transom is also.... add a few more hundred for that.

Likely the boat will need re-wired, new seats, cushions ground tackle etc. = several more hundred bucks.

Then you've got the engine...several hundred bucks for the parts you'll need and then the machine shop for boring or re-lining the cylinders...

Likely you can find a used motor in good shape cheaper than buying the parts and paying a machine shop cheaper.

Then add decent compass, electronics, batteries, bilge pump.... maybe a new gas tank....

I think a more realistic budget is in the $4500-$5000 range.

While I love to see these old boats restored, it's always a big financial loser. I've never seen anyone come out "even" much less ahead.

The only reason to take on such a task (and a good one) is just because you want to do it.

Decent water ready boats can be had for a song in this economy... much cheaper than doing even modest repairs to an old boat.

Also, however much "time" you've budgeted triple it.

Were I to take on this project, I'd consider removing any paint that's on the boat and taking it back to the original gel coat unless there are signs that the gel coat was damaged at some earlier time... which certainly could be why it was painted to begin with.

Once you paint, you'll forever be painting.

 

[BigJ08]

Re: Starting a new project: My First Boat!

Ditch the Chrysler no matter how much you are tempted to rebuild it. Check your local craiglist. I'd also look into something a little bigger than 105 hp (somewhere around 115 maybe). I also agree with kaferhaus about your budget. You should double that $2000 easily. Can't wait to see it get started.

 

[ezmobee]

Re: Starting a new project: My First Boat!

Awesome project! Can't wait to see your progress photos. I love the look of the old Chryslers and as much as I would love to see one saved I have to agree with the other posters. Part it out and find a running OMC/Merc 115 with tilt and trim. Parts are rare and expensive for Chryslers. If it was fine block-wise and just needed some carb or ignition work I'd say go for it but you have major work to do just to get to the point where you're going to find it needs carb/ignition work. Good luck with your project.

 

[F14CRAZY]

Re: Starting a new project: My First Boat!

It will be a lot of work. In my opinion the difficult parts are gutting, grinding and preparing for the new stuff, and fiberglassing. Well, not so much difficult, but these things consume A LOT of time.

Depending on where you can source your supplies, you can definitely save some money...I decided to use epoxy and have sourced it from US Composites (.com). 5 gallons of their medium working time epoxy plus hardener (beware, some vendors like on ebay may sell you "2 gallons" but it's one gallon of resin and one gallon of hardener) for $243. Shipping wasn't too bad. I've ordered another two gallons from them as well. If you decide to stick with polyester resin you'll definitely save there too.

DON'T buy from like West Marine if you don't have to. I got some 4'' medium oz "tape" to tab the edges of my decking which was $23.99 for six yards (have the receipt in hand). Thankfully I didn't use it because I checked ebay and found a surplus 50 YARD roll of the same stuff for $12.50 . Previously I bought the 18 yards of 18 oz fabric for my stringers for a mere $30 from another seller of surplus stuff on ebay. US Composites has some of the most reasonable rates for supplies (check a few other online sources before you order) but that was still going to be well over $100.

I'm comfortable with using exterior ply versus marine plywood, though I did order 4 sheets of marine from my local Lowes (1/2'') for about $55/sheet which is a great deal considering some other prices I found (over $100/sheet).

It's a lot of labor, time, and money, but at least we're all in it together

BTW how large is that cabin? It looks pretty spacious for a 19'

 

[oops!]

Re: Starting a new project: My First Boat!

im looking forward to watching this project....i hope you keep up with it.


cheers
oops

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: Starting a new project: My First Boat!

This is going to be interesting. Just my suggestion but look at re-powering it. I will proably get flamed for saying this but..... there are quite alot of inline Merc/Mariner 6 cylinders out there and they go cheap. Pick up a 115 or a 140 anf that will do fine. I have found them available cheaper then other outboards.

 

[Mark42]

Re: Starting a new project: My First Boat!

Some things to help keep within you budget:

- Don't use Marine grade plywood, regular CDX or pressure treated will do fine.

- Use Polyester/Vinylester resin. It is much cheaper than Epoxy and will work just fine. Its what you boat is made from, and it lasted 50+ years!

- Don't be afraid to order fiberglass seconds or project leftovers from ebay. A few snags in the cloth will not make much difference, especially when you will be cutting it up anyway.

- Shop, shop and do more shopping online. The prices for fiberglass, resin, and other marine supplies vary greatly. It pays to make a written plan, and include the best price by supplier for each item. Then place your orders once you have a number of items to order from each supplier, it will save $$$ on shipping charges.

- Do not throw out or destroy anything you take off the boat. Especially items like rub rail, trim, and odd looking pieces of hardware, even if badly rusted or damaged. These are usually very expensive or impossable to replace, and polishing or painting or repairing will make these old pieces work and look good again.

- Save the cost of carpet for the decks. Seal and paint is the low cost way to go and it will outlast carpet.

- Don't go overboard buying overly heavy duty parts or supplies. IE a 3/8" anchor line doesn't sound like much, but it is more than enough (and the reccomended size) to anchor a boat that size. Save the cost over the 1/2" line.

- There are some parts that are expensive, and from the safety point of view, you should spend the $$$. Talking about Marine grade fuel line, fill hose, vent hose and wiring. Using auto parts here is against the Coast Guard regs, and is penny wise but pound foolish.

- Don't be afraid to ask lots of questions!

Good luck!