[abl1111]

I have all the pix. I tired to download (10) pix about 2 weeks ago on the Boat Zone, but it took WAY too long. Download failed.

John, can I send them to you to get them posted ?

It actually would be of interest to anybody who has a Sceptre/Tsunami or has an i/o ( or two i/o's ). The way this project was done was top notch ( again I was a grunt here following a pro's direction ). I have learned a great deal about the construction of boats, especially this one.

And, I might add - this site was a HUGE help in so many ways. The CSC site is actually very addictive !!! I found myself reading threads about the smallest details - that type of info is indespensable.

One thing that I did learn is that it is very easy to underestimate the budget of a resto. Because, once you get going, you realize that you have the opportunity to really build a boat - to your own specs and needs. That can get a bit crazy $$$. Some people have the, "I'll do it over a few years as I use it" mentality, or people like me, who say, "I want it completely the way I want it before she ever hits the water". Neither way is more right - just different personalities. The way I did it, knowing I did not want to miss any of my boating season, took up alot of my free time - physically and mentally. It's amazing how many decisions you have to make, some of the small ones taking up much more time than the big ones. I still laugh at how much time I spent trying to find the perfect windshield wiper motor ! Or, choosing a cabin light ( I still have not found one I like ! )

And, here is the most insane part. Ready. I have never even been in a SeaCraft! Yes, you read that right. I bought this boat based on word-of-mouth from very salty characters; hardcore fisherman, boatyard owners, marine mechanics, fiberglass guys, rich guys, poor guys - the thing that sold me initially was that everyone said the same thing: " it's built like a brick [censored]-house, and the design has withstood the test of time and proven to be one of the best hulls made in that size boat. What else did I need to know ?

Think I'll go have me a beer. All this typing has given me a thrist. Oh yeah. Some tools that were absolutley indespensable:

- Porter Cable electric D/A w/ the roll of stick-on sandpaper ( 80 grit, 120 grit and 220 - 600-800 grit for the gelcoat polishing)

- Makita 4 1/2" grinder - w/ sanding adapter - 24, 36, 80 grit.

Those two tools were used every day!

- Makita 7" , commercial polishing wheel w/ 3M compound, finished with 3M " Finesse It "

Those were the biggies...