Rebuilding decks on 20ft 85yr center console

[dahlbebop]

I have just purchased a 85 grady. 20 center console! Have many questions, 1 - can the decks be repaired easily if they are on port and starboard sides, the gas tank cover deffinately has issues and will be rebuilt. Any other issues I should be aware of with this boat? Boat is very clean,good trailer,needs repowered! Is it worth repowering? Like I said it is very clean. I plan on all new wiring just to be safe. any input will be appreciated. Thanks Budd (newbee) P.s. Only payed 2000.00 for it!!

 

[Grog]

For the sides, repaired yes, easily no. It's not building a space shutle but there is a decent amount of work. The hatch is relatively easy to repair.

Check out classicmako.com there are a lot of photos of people doing jobs like that.

 

[dahlbebop]

rebuild decks

thanks,but I was kinda looking for more input! Are these old boats worth it? Are the center consoles any good,seems like noone here is really interested in the old boats! I'm on a short budget,but need to get on the water. Use to have a mako years ago on the coast,now I live in ky. want something to trailer to the coast for fishing. Thanks for any input.

 

[JeffN]

I would agree that mostly the market here is new or newer boat Grady owners. Lots of info though. Every so often there are some great posts of old boats in the process or having been redone. Maybe redoing Gradys is on the rise. Who knows it could be the next big thing :idea: Many old Gradys would provide great raw material for a project as they were pretty good to begin with. The bottom line is "is it worth it to you" if you bought the boat right have the skills etc - have at it. I happen to like old stuff, mine was not old when I bought it but is now. So I have a pretty good idea of what I have. Also I enjoy doing things to my boat so all in all for me yes it is worth it. I see the classic Mako board and there is one for Bertrams, I have been to the Bertram site and some of the boats they have redone are beautiful. Too me the restored boats (or whatever) are more unique - not just another clorox bottle. New is nice for sure I just enjoy different.

 

[Grog]

The only person to answer the is it worth it question is you. To be honest, $ wise it's not worth rebuilding but if it's something you like and can do it, that job can be very rewarding.

Like I said, the gas tank cover is relatively easy and isn't going to break the bank if you do it. Once you start cutting up the deck, you don't know how big the job will become. Digging out the old foam, probaby some new stringers, gas tank work, then putting the deck back on. On the Mako sight people posted pictures of their projects in various stages. Are you capable and willing to do that much work on your boat? It's not cheap but a WHOLE lot cheaper if you do the work than someone else.

If you want to use the boat this season, it may be worth it to have someone survey the boat to see if it's seaworthy before dumping money on an engine.

 

[richie rich]

If you're doing the work yourself, its technically worth it because a new Grady or other boat of the same caliber is big bucks........any older boat will have its share of repair/replacement issues......but if you're paying a boatyard or the Grady dealer to rebuild your boat, you may be better off making a deal for a new(er) one, especially these days as they are very hungry for a sale....

 

[dahlbebop]

Appreciate the responses

I do appreciate the input! I figure that I only payed 2000.00 for the boat and trailer which are both in very good shape for the year. Finding a used moter is risky bussiness,so probably going to save for a new motor. I like the idea that I will have the security of a new motor. That being said,I do know how to, do the work and am going to be completely restoring this boat better than when it left the dock for the first time. I was just curious as to what other people thought and have enjoyed hearing your thought on the matter. I will try and keep pics along the way and let you all know when I drop it in the water. Smooth sailing to those of you that are lucky enough to be enjoying your Grady Whites this season. One thing I do know is any boat is better than no boat as long as you don't sink it or make house size payments on it,lol Talk to you all soon.P.S. Catch some Tuna for me!!