General Question...$$$

[bigeasy1]

I'm doing over a 74 Tsunami,that i bought last november for $1,000.00.I thought that i could complete this project for around 15,000.I think that i'll end up with a finished cost of 15 to 18 grand finished.This includes the electronics,and kicker motor.

The only way i'm able to come in at this cost,is because i was lucky enough to come across an engine and outdrive in excellent condition for 1,500 dollars.Originally,i thought about a new engine and drive package,but that would have made my finished cost easily exceed $25,000.00.

I'm also fortunate enough to have a couple friends in the fiberglass supply business,and another in the marine supply and mechanic business,so i get great advice,lessons,and a discount on glass supplies, and likewise on mechanicals.

I thought that i could finish this project in a year,but it looks more likely that it will be closer to two.I did have to do a complete transom replacement,along with engine beds.The deck is in decent shape so i kind of lucked out there,but all the hatches were rotted and have to be recored.
Then there's all the countless other stuff that has to be done, it's fun, and i enjoy it, but sometimes i have to take a break from it.New england winters don't help either.I just keep dreaming of the day i get to launch it,and that keeps me going.

I think cost and time also depend on what level of finish you want at completion.I want my project to look great and be seaworthy.I also take great pride in my work,so all work is done correctly with good fit and finish, but i'm not interested in restoring it to the level of a Barrett-Jackson classic car.I want to fish out of it.I don't want to have to worry about getting fish blood on it.

I only wish that i was as talented as mr.Strick, i'm in awe of his work. I've done a few boats in my lifetime,but i feel like a rookie when i see the work he does,it's awesome.

Good luck if you attempt to do the restoration,and as strick said, it's a lot of work,and it may take a year or two to finish it,but it's a whole lot cheaper than buying a new boat of comparable quality.

I thought the the quote by another CSC member (i think it was abl1111) was perfect.In reply to a question about cost, he said "Screw the economics,they never make sense".

As the Nike add says,Just do it.you'll be glad you did.