To restore or not?

[jimdd810]

I have a 19?? starcraft sea scamp 14ft. It has a drain plug but other than that I have no clue what year this thing is. Its got a couple of dents. I started working on it installed lights and new benches. I want to know if it is possible or a good idea to install a floor in this boat mabe a casting deck up front? I will paint it and replace the transom. I love this boat it goes to many of the lakes on trails that most people wont drive down.

 

[chargerboy]

Re: To restore or not?

I'm curious what your question really is? You are asking if you should restore the boat, but it sounds like it's already in good shape, you just want to modify it? Doing the repairs is a good idea, I think whatever makes it more usable for yourself is a bonus.

Have fun, good luck, and post the photos

 

[jimdd810]

Re: To restore or not?

The main question I have is it ok to put a floor in this boat. I did what i needed to to put it on the water. Its an ugly boat lol.

 

[chargerboy]

Re: To restore or not?

I think you would be fine installing a floor. Make sure to remember to leave a space at the back of the boat for inspection/bailing if needed.

 

[chargerboy]

Re: To restore or not?

Do you have photos of the interior of the boat? It will give people unfamiliar with Starcrafts (myself ) a chance to chime in and discuss different ways that you might like to hear.

 

[jimdd810]

Re: To restore or not?

well this is what ive done so far. Keep in mind I use this boat on a daily basis.
I have replaced 2 of the 3 seats temporarily with 3/4 inch treated plywood. I plan on repainting the interior and adding a floor and possibly a raised seat platform up front. Ive wired the boat for lights and installed the battery and power outlet for charging my cell phone and using my gps. I installed a tempress seat (fathers Day present) with a swivel mount and a slide mount. The motor is a 1984 Johnson 15 hp which I had before I got the boat. Ive rebuilt the carb and repaired the thermostat housing gasket also replaced the water pump. Pressure and vacuum tested the lower unit. Replaced fluid and the motor runs excellent. Rewired the trailer lights.
Plans for the refit: I want to install a floor and an elevated front seat platform. I want to straighten a couple of dents and repaint the boat. and of course carpet cause this boat is really loud in the water. Bilge pump and rod holders are in order cause my kids love to step on my rods. The goal again is to do this all while still being able to fish. So this is going to be a slow process but my 12 year old daughter is really excited to help and shes already helped alot which makes it worth the time and effort. Any suggestions will be highly appreciated.

 

[jimdd810]

Re: To restore or not?

couple more things. I plan on redoing and painting the trailer. Also ive got about $300. total invested in this thing so far and to me that is reasonable Ive seen older and rougher boats being sold on craigslist for 800 or 900 dollars. Money is not the concern on this project. Its spending time on the water with my daughter.

 

[sasto]

Re: To restore or not?

Once had a boat simular and what I did was make floor inserts for use between the seats. Easily removable for cleaning and no hardware needed. Made one into a cooler. Keep in mind you are raising the center of gravity while standing and will have a shorter gunnel height for little ones.