Forum Discussion and Opinions

[BigLew]

Originally Posted by FishMagnet

I have a 1978 23 ft Sea Craft that I am remodeling. The guy that is remodeling it suggested taking the vents out of the hull sides forward and aft and glassing them in. My first response was that the vents kind of made it look more like a classic Sea Craft and why would I take away from that look. Since then I have looked at several forum remodels and see that others have taken the vents out as well. Now Im kind of sitting on the fence and wondering what all you folks think is the better way to go. Its an outboard boat so the vents are not functional at all and could actually allow water into the boat. The remodel involves installing a full transom and bracket as well as a bunch of other functional and cosmetic features to enhance its fishability and ride as well as making it look "new" again. What would you all do and why? Thanks for your opinions and advice in advance.

Let me ask you a few questions!

What burns better, an engine(outboard) or a full fuel tank?

A follow up question, if I may! Where is the most likely source of a spark, in your bilge with pumps, batteries, and God knows what else or in a bracket?

Do nautical engineers generally know what they are doing and why, better than you?

Last.

How much do you love your family? Do you want to knowingly make a dumb mistake for the sake of cosmetics?

JMHO!

The vents are there not for the engine, but to vent the hull of moisture AND Fuel Vapors!

Are you moving your fuel tank to your bracket, too?