18 owners feedback

[deepsushi]

I just purchased a 1978 18 foot cc and had a few questions I was hoping some current or former owners could help me answer.


1,) Livewell – What is the best plan of attack here? I know from reading the archives that the original setup pretty much makes this livewell useless except for hauling around 40 gallons of rainwater. I would really like the ability to have this as usable space so I would prefer not sealing it up permanently.

I was thinking of cutting out the livewell and improving the gutter system so that it would not fill with rainwater. Also, I would like to be able to make the livewell a lift out / removable well so that I could have access to the bilge. Any ideas as to weather or not this would work?

2.) Deck drainage system--

Is the 18 footer self bailing or not? Currently there are two drain holes in front of the motor well that drain directly into the bilge. I would rather plug these and have the water run out the two drainholes located in the transom. If I put the ping pong ball style drain covers on the transom will this be sufficient to let the water out of the boat?


I am trying to come up with a plan of attack to address these issues and any help would be appreciated.