rebuilding 101....

[capemaychef]

I know this is a VERY broad subject....but I would like to adventually get my hands on a 20ccp or a 17' older aquasport.  I wouldn't want a hunker that will be in need of a complete restore...but maybe something that could be reglassed and made to look nice(most importantly safe as well)...I haven't done such a thing before?  I have been reading this site for a while, but there is no better tool to learn than to just do it.  Where would one start?  Can anyone break down the process for me...I would appreciate it.  Again I know this is a very beginner/broad subject

[RickK]

You're right, it's too broad.  First, get the "subject" and then we can, depending on what is damaged, help you decide what is needed in what order.

[LilRichard]

Just check out the posts in the rebuilds section, it'll give you a flavor for the range of rebuilds possible.  

I will tell you though that most of the "Classic" Aquasports are going to need a lot more than a slight rebuild... so don't go into this thinking you can buy a Flatback and have it in useable shape without a serious commitment of time and $$$.  Most of these hulls need transoms and floors, and in my case, stringers as well.  I will be into this boat for two years of labor minimum before it is close to complete.

[capemaychef]

thanks gentleman thats what I figured(too broad of a subject)...

[JimCt]

If there is any single item that must be addressed in a project boat right out of the gate, it is the transom.  If the wood transom core is soft it can result in a lost engine and possibly loss of the boat and crew.  If you plan on spreading the projects needed on the boat over time, a triage evaluation is the way to go.  Safety items first, cosmetic items last.

[John Jones]

My priority list is:

1-safety
2-reliability
3-fishing  
4-cosmetic

#4 is still lacking  

[JimCt]

Too cosmetic and I'd always be worried about a little nick or scratch and going nuts over what kind of shoes everyone has on.  For some, that's their bag and that's fine.  I lean toward having a boat safe, sound, usable in a practical sense, and hopefully enjoyable for everyone aboard.

[capemaychef]

Thanks guys...I would lean towards the safety side also, the less things to worry about scratching the better so cosmetic...I'm not to worried about.  I think the idea sounds great in my head....but if I got a boat...I would be afraid that my lack of knowledge would prove itself quickly and I would be stuck with something I couldn't fix....and use...

[John Jones]

A project boat is truly a big undertaking.  It's much better as a hobby than it is a way to get a cheap boat.  Unless you are really lucky, it will cost more than buying a used boat in good shape.  I found that out 3 projects ago but I keep going.  

[capemaychef]

I wouldn't do it for a cheap boat....I would do it say hey...look what I bought...and now look at it...and learn something as well, but it might not be the right time to do such a thing.

[John Jones]

That's a good attitude.
I always say that it takes about 2.7 times the time and money you first calculated on a project boat. ;)

[LilRichard]

Sh*t... I'll finish my Flatback and trade you for your Albemarle.

 

[aqua70]

Get a hold of Brian at Harborview Marina. He runs the Lady Chris Fishing Boat. He guided us step by step during our restoration. He has redone about 4 Aquasports from start to finish.
   The members on this site will also assist you. I am in North Wildwood. If you need any help let me know.  Good Luck!!

[capemaychef]

Thanks Aqua...I am good friends with the chef from Harborview....always glad to see local guys who are willing to assist:)  I might have to put this idea on the back burner until we can sell our ALbemarle and figure out what we are going to do next....but this site is awesome!