What should i do with my boat?

[xxturbowesxx]

I have a 1988 17.5' procraft fish n ski with a 1988 150 mariner. the motor runs like a champ and has perfect compression. The boat on the other hand looks good but needs to have to deck replaced. The transom is strong and somehow is dry. the deck can be walked on but is soft so for now I carpeted and watersealed plywood and put it over the existing deck. Should i replace the deck and stringers or pull the motor and look for a better hull? If replacing the Deck keep in mind I live in a townhouse community I have an area to work but no garage.

 

[legoman67]

Re: What should i do with my boat?

Well, there are afew things to consider,

1. do you really love the boat? is it worth the time and money to make it the way you want? Redoing the deck the stringers is a big job, but it also allows customization to the seating and interior.
2. is there another boat out there that you like and can afford? If there is, and your not really attached to your boat maybe it is the better option.
3. Do you like working with your hands? getting dirty and covered in random chemicals, and then seeing the boat come out in the end, or do you just want a quick job to make it work? and would rather not have to do everything if you could find a shortcut?

Awnser those questions and you should have a pretty good idea. also we love pics!

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: What should i do with my boat?

well the way i look at it. you have a 21 year old motor, and at present an overdecked boat. motor worth $500-1,200 in this economy, hull worth $100 in present condition, $200 trailer.

now do you put money ($700-1,500 depending on damage) and sweat to bring it back to being a safe boat (at present it is not safe) and enjoy your paid for boat, on do you go out and buy some monthly payments? i do all my repair outside, not in a garage.

 

[xxturbowesxx]

Re: What should i do with my boat?

what i was considering was a used hull i can find many nice hulls for 1000-2000 and while my motor may not be worth much purchasing a new motor would be considerably more and if i maintain it and keep it in good shape like i have i shouldn't worry. im not attached to my current hull. i think i would rather put that 700-1200 for a redeck towards a hull that i can just put my motor and cables if needed. this will also allow me to consider a new style boat if i choose. basically use this hull for one more season then strip it for what i want and give it away. i purchased this boat a couple years ago for 1700 and feel i have gotten that amount of enjoyment from it plus i can salvage about 1000 worth of motor from the deal so im only out 700 i guess. please stop me if my thinking is off or if other things in a change of hull i need to consider.