1959 SmithCraft build (Texas Prowler)

[user 20022]

This is what the finished product to look like. It will be the same color theme. I think I might just have a line on a period correct outboard. I just have to find the time to go and purchase it.

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[user 20022]

I'll replace the two aluminum angles with ones that span to the top of the transom. I plan to put an aluminium cap over the transom next year.

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[bonz_d]

I have to question whether you even need to put those 2 small angles back in there. They certainly don't look to be original. Also the center knee brace looks as if it a one time might have supported a splash-well.

I like you paint scheme.

 

[user 20022]

Thanks bonz_d. If you were to look closely at the transom you'll see it is cracked clear across the top of both of those two aluminum angles. so I figure i would strengthen the transom by lengthening the angles so they reach the top of the transom.

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[bonz_d]

Prowler, I haven't been able to determine from the pictures you've posted if that was originally a 15" transom or a 20" transom. Though the last picture you posted it looks as if there are 2 boards used.

 

[user 20022]

bonz_d the transom looks to be original. I think at best it could of been another inch high at most. When I rebuild the transom it will be made from two sheets of 3/4 plywood and fiberglass.

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[user 20022]

Went out to Lone Oak, Tx and picked up a 73 402 40hp merc for $125. It spins and the lower unit is good. So far I've rewired the ignition coils. I'll pickup a compression tester off eBay and test the compression when it comes in. I'm gonna bet it's around 100+ if it's lower I'll rebuild it. If higher I'll ride it out and pick up parts before rings and such before they become obsolete. How low can the compression be before it is considered unusable? The po didn't realize the ignition coil wires were toast.

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[user 20022]

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[bonz_d]

Nice score on that Mercury. I picked up a nice compression tester at Auto Zone for a nice price. Might want to look for an open air gap spark tester as well. They're only about $10.00 to $15.00 depending on where you go.

Should push that boat very well.

 

[user 20022]

Thanks! I'll stop by auto zone this weekend. I'll probably just get them both. I'm excited it's all coming together slowly.

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[user 20022]

So far I have $540 into the boat motor and trailer. Good start. I'm glad I listened to you guys and found a older tin.

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[user 20022]

Well the merc 402 needs a rebuild so I'll start that. Looks like there's a little more red in the mercs future[emoji6]

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[user 20022]

Let the tear down begin...

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[user 20022]

Taking it down to bare tin and going back with regal red rustoleum

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[user 20022]

Though I really want to put a single piece windshield on I know it will be in the way when realing in a fish. I've been contemplating building a flat deck like the ones I've seen in other threads. Maybe i could do side consoles with windshields. What do you guys think?

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[user 20022]

I had a tough time stripping the paint with sand paper and even flap disc, so I researched removing paint from a John boat and found one post in a forum about using the disk in the second photo. Wow what a difference this disk made. It cuts the paint off like butter without digging into the aluminum like the flap disk. Originally I was going to have a shop blast the tin, but I figured I'd put in the hard work and save the pennies for the outboard. Little progress made today.

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[user 20022]

The disk cost 6 bucks at Harbor Frieght. I was able to get most of one side done. I figure it will take 4 disk to get the outside of the tin done.

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[user 20022]

Change in the layout! After viewing some of the threads here I have decided to make the tin more fish friendly. I cut the bow deck out and mimicked the sides to the bow. I'll build another deck lower in the bow and a side console.

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[user 20022]

Well I have removed the rear bench seat. The plan is to configure a deck behind the front bench.
I went to a boat repair shop and asked if they had any gas tanks. I found a very nice looking used 17 gallon tank made by Tempo for $40. The lakes I will put the tin in are large and some of the best fishing is 15- 30 miles away approximately, so I figure having the extra gas will allow me to cruise around after I making it to my destination.

The shop also had a bunch of used outboards. Unfortunately they were all mercury outboards a Johnson and a $600 9hp 4 stroke Honda. He has a nice looking 80s 50hp Merc with power tilt and trim $600. I've found a couple other outboards that aren't mercs, but I didn't find out if they have tilt and trim. That is a must on the outboard check list.

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[user 20022]

Well I have a new member of family. She is a 73 Johnson 50hp outboard. 150psi on both cylinders.

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