IMP Boats Information [Archive] - Boat Design Forums

JKE

01-17-2005, 03:52 PM

Hello.
I am brand new member to this forum, first time message poster. Am purchasing a 1981 IMP Comanche 21-foot Cuddy/Runabout. It has a 302 V-8 I/O with OMC Outdrive.
Has VERY low hours on engine. Interior and hull are in exceptionally good shape for '81 boat. I know (sadly) very little about IMP boats (this is my first). I know they were made by Iola Molded Plastics. Have heard very good things from others (more experienced) about all IMP boats being well-built and long-lasting. Am looking for ANY information about IMP boats of this size class and approximate era. Can't find much on web about IMP. Any help is much appreciated. Any personal insights or advice are also appreciated. Thank you.

Have an excellent day.

Jake

IsleStGeorgeJoh

01-23-2005, 09:55 AM

Saw Your message on your IMP. I have a 1970 IMP 23' Softtop with a 170HP I/O. I don't know much about the company, but I have seen them at boat shows in the past. It appears that they have been in and out of the business over the past several years. The hull design I have is lapstrake with a sliding hatch in the front. All I can say is that the boat is very good in rough water. I have had it in a gale on lake Erie, 10-12 foot waves and it got me back. I can't say enough about its handling capability, I have not been in a better rough water boat. It is heavy and has a deep V with a TRS outdrive so it is not a go fast boat, but it does move along at a reasonable speed.

JKE

01-24-2005, 02:53 AM

Thanks for taking the time to write about your IMP boat.
I have also been fortunate enough to be put in contact with a Sports / Boating magazine writer who has catalogs dating back to the 60's on IMP boats. He may have the actual sales catalog on my 1981 boat. We'll see how that works out and I'll let you know if it does. Thanks for your input. Yours being 11 years older and two foot longer can make a difference. But, so far, everyone that I have spoken to that DOES happen to know anything about IMP boats has said although they are "heavy", they are built practically "bullet proof" and long-lasting. Here's what little I've been told. The original company was called Red Fish Boats in Kansas. In 1963 they were bought and renamed by the Iola Molded Plastics (IMP) and apparently were around by that name until some time in the past 5 or 6 years when they were bought out by a Florida-based company called International Marine Products. That company did not last for too long before going out of business. This is the history according to others that know much more than and have been around longer than me. If either of us learns more, we should be sure to share the knowledge.
Thanks again.

JKE

JERRYH

01-27-2005, 12:35 PM

I Am Lloking For A Hull Diagram For My 1976 Imp Boat. How Would One Find This. I Want To Understand What I Cant See. And Need To Do Some Seat Work And Want To Know Where To Drill Etc. Also Have Water In Floor Storage Area And What To Understand Where It Comes From Etc.........any Hull Diagrams Available Online? Or Owners Manuals Etc?

Thanks

Jvh

ibt2

02-24-2005, 07:30 PM

I just purchased an older 23' IMP Aztec with hardtop. It does need some remodeling. Did anyone ever come across any information on the IMP's? A brochure of the old girl (1970) would be a great start if anyone knows of any.

JKE

02-24-2005, 07:47 PM

Hi.
No one ever came up with any IMP information (other than much newer IMP's that are still on the market). By the same token, the boat I actually purchased was not a1981 21-Foot cuddy, but was in fact a 1981 19-foot Cuddy I/O Comanche. It has a 200HP OMC engine. I am in the process of having ALL of the upholstery & carpet replaced, cleaning every square inch of the decks and hull, restoring the exterior finish, replacing some small oxidized hardware, bilge hoses, battery boxes, installing CD player & speakers, depth/fish finder, etc., etc., etc. You know how it goes when you buy a "pre-owned" anything....especially a boat. As for the information, there was one guy that contacted me that said he had files on all original sales brochures on IMP boats, but after saying he would send me copies of them, he never followed through. So, I'm left still searching the classifieds and internet for any and all materials pertaining to IMP boats from that era. If all goes according to plans, should have the boat ship-shape and launched in about two more weeks. I send you good wishes for your remodeling job on the Aztec. If I come across any info on that one, I will pass it along.
Tight lines to you.

Jake

ibt2

02-27-2005, 12:44 AM

Thanks for the info. I spoke to the folks at the Iola, KS city manager's office and got the name and number of a guy who use to work for IMP before they went out of business. The number went to Challenger Offshore Boats in Missouri. When I called, the receptionist told me that the individual I was looking for had not worked there in 2 years and she had never heard of IMP boats before. So, the search continues.

IsleStGeorgeJoh

02-27-2005, 11:27 AM

Saw your message, I have had a couple of IMP boats over the years. I currently have a 23' softtop 1970 with a Mercruiser 270HP. It is the lapstrake hull with the flair to the bow and the slide fromt hatch. What a great rough water boat. I had a 21' as well and my son had a 23' Hardtop. I prefer the Mercruiser with the TRS outdrive, but that is because I have had no experience with the others.
I have done a lot to restore the boat since I first bought it about 15 years ago. The major issue to get used to is the four gas tanks with one guage. I also have a 24' Thompson, 1989. A lot more boat, but not nearly as good a ride. One other thing, the IMP is a lot heavier boat for its size, so don't expect 40 miles an hour. I prefer safety, had the 23 IMP in a gale on Lake Erie, 10 to 12 foot waves and I am still here to tell the tale.
Good luck with the research. I saw the boat several years ago at the Cleveland boat show. They were still making the same hull design. I would like to find one about 1995, perhaps that was the last year they wwere made?

NadaBoring

03-07-2005, 04:45 PM

I owned my first IMP in 1974. A 1968 IMP Aztec, 21' with very small forward cuddy cabin. The best boat I've ever owned. I'm currently restoring a 1984 IMP Aztec that is just about lake ready. Many changes between my '68 and this one. For instance, I had two rear gas tanks (18 gal each) and a 15 gal tank installed in the cuddy cabin. My current boat has a large gas tank amidships (40 gal approx.) IMP boats are some of the most stable you will find cutting the water. I'm not familiar with the Commanche but imagine it has a sink arrangement on the port side behind the passenger's seat, right? Anyway, good IMP boats are becoming hard to find and while the prices on them are fairly low right now it's usually because the boat has been abused or neglected. They were considered to be Cadillacs of the lake when new and the prices were high for their era. Can't wait to get my current IMP in the water - we're down to having carpet installed and some electrical connections prepared, then we're gone. Best of luck with your IMP.

John Boring

jstcrzyengh

03-09-2005, 05:10 AM

I currently own a 77 IMP Aztec Cuddy Cabin. It has the typical saddle bag fuel tanks, however I am removing those and rebuilding the engine box to give more walking space.

I have also heard them called the "Cadillas" of their day. Now I am going to build a mini parker out of it. Customize it a bit. If you have questions Tom at Warner Boats in Costa Mesa California seems to be an authority on these boats.

subjim96

03-19-2005, 06:00 PM

Hello,
I recently bought a 1980 IMP hardtop Cuddy Cabin. 350 Chevy engine block with 260 hp, Merc Cruise outdrive. I owned it about 15 years ago and sold it to a man who let it go. I recently bought it back and am now currently restoring it. I am in need of some parts and information on how to get those parts. Seats, electronics, and wiring diagram. If any information on a dealer of IMP or catalog comes about it would be greatly appricated.

Thank you.

lameduck1

03-21-2005, 04:02 PM

I have a 74 23' inca IMP with a hard top. I keep my boat down in the marina at dana point harbor in Ca. This boat handles the ocean like no tomorrow. I have it able to hold 130 gallons of gas and re-disigned the back seets to fit the massive 454 I/O mercruser engine. She will go around 45 mph in ideal conditions. I want to take the hard top off so I can make more room for fishing. Anybody with one that has a good idea of how to take the top off without messing anything up. It would be greatly appreacited. I really LOVE this boat.

grgoyle1229

03-31-2005, 02:42 AM

Hello
I also have joined the group of Imp owners. I wheeled and dealed for 1976 Imp 20' Aztec with a 190 omc. This is my first boat project and hopefully we can all learn from each other here. I picked the boat up for practically nothing and was told that it was in the water less then 2 years ago. I just received a new starter and plan on installing it tomorrow but i have noticed a spot that looked like something was mounted there but nothing is there I need some pics of the motor but i think it might be the solenoid hopefully i can atleast get it started perhaps some of you might have some hints for starting this beast after such a long time sitting. I should prolly remove the gas from the tanks and replace it with fresh.

grgoyle1229

04-01-2005, 12:06 PM

Im back again
I found that i have a cracked exhaust manifold and when i hooked up the water supply to turn the engine over there was all kinds of water running out of the bottom of the motor where there are 3 large holes. I was wondering if this is a bad sing Im afraid that she might have a cracked block but Im not familiar with boat cooling systems and dont know what to think. I havet been able to start it yet since the battery is totally dead so i will have to find another before i turn it over. Any info that you all could send my way would be appreciated. I am considering completly rebuilding the motor assuming the block isnt cracked. Well thats enough for now
Grgoyle1229

JKE

04-01-2005, 04:53 PM

Hello again.
It sounds like a couple of us could use the help of an Owner's Manual on IMP boats. While I have not yet found any of those in particular, I have found (and purchased) a SELOC Repair Manual for OMC Stern Drives (1964-86). It has been somewhat enlightening, but covers so many different OMC's, that much of the info is very broad. But there are some wiring diagrams in the back, with some very helpful photos (for those of us that need to know where the water drains are, starters, solenoids, etc.).
I purchased my SELOC on Ebay from BUSTERS MARINE SERVICE. He has fair prices and fast shipping.
Update on my own IMP: Turns out I own a 1981 Comanche Runabout with Cuddy. It is 18-feet 6-inches (not 21-feet as I was originally told). The engine (while it is an OMC) is actually built by General Motors, and is a 305 Cubic Inch engine with 200 Horsepower, and an 800 Series OMC Outdrive. The prop is a 15-inch X 17 Pitch. After spending about 2 months scrubbing, cleaning, deoxidizing, polishing, oiling the teak, and waxing, she looks pretty nice! Plus, addes new carpet, new cuddy sleeping cushions, CD/Stereo system, some 6 X 9's, a LOT of new wiring, new bilge hoses and mounts, new anchors, new depth-finder/fish-finder, life jackets, fenders, covers, newly-repaired covertible canvas top, (and more cleaning!), she has turned into quite a nice boat.
Took her out last week for her maiden Arizona lake trip. She ran like an absolute champion! Easily hit 40+ MPH, the 305 V-8 purred. She handled big surface chop like it wasn't even there. A very smooth, quiet, exhilerating boat ride. My buddy offered me $3,000 for her on the spot. (Naturally I laughed at him). I am now a very proud IMP boat owner. I can see why those of you that have owned them (or several) over the years say they are great boats! I agree.
If I am able to locate any other information on IMP Boats (of any kind) I will certainly pass it along. Talk to you soon.

Jake

jstcrzyengh

04-01-2005, 10:08 PM

Hey guys, if you could all send me pictures of your IMP's I can start an IMP owners club of sorts over at one of my domains. So we can gather information see other projects etc... I have a guy here in so cal that completely gutted his and rebuilt it as an enclosure for fishing. Looks very trick. I want to basically do the same give up some of the internal cabin area for on deck space. You can email me at:

Robbins1129 [at] aol DOT com

[at] = @ and dot of course = aol.com. I just don't need more spam than I get now. :)

khschmitt

04-02-2005, 08:44 PM

Hello gang! I have a 23' IMP Cuddy Cabin - Inca or Aztec? I'm not sure. I haven't used it in many years and it needs a new home. Any suggestions? The motor has been rebuilt but we did not complete the installation. Motor was bored out to a 327 CI. Boat is on a good trailer. OMC outdrive was rebuilt years ago but again the boat has bee idle.

Anyone interested send me an email!

grgoyle1229

04-03-2005, 12:53 AM

I actually might be interested in the outdrive depending on your location and whether or not you want to actually part the boat out?

lameduck1

04-03-2005, 03:13 PM

Dot

04-06-2005, 04:50 PM

Hi!

I'm new to this forum too! Found this thread while searching online for info on IMP. I was also unable to find much info about IMP boats. Have many of the same questions as mentioned. I am considering purchasing an IMP Navajo from my in-laws but was curious to learn more about it first. I don't know the year, but I know the price is reasonable. In reading the forum I saw that many of you have Commanches or Aztecs, does anyone else own a Navajo?

Jake- where in AZ are you? I'm in AZ also!

Thanks for all the info! So far this has been the most I've been able to find!

Dot

jstcrzyengh

04-06-2005, 05:42 PM

Here is just some of the information I have been able to dig up so far...

http://www.fiberglassics.com/redfish/

JERRYH

04-07-2005, 08:38 AM

Dot

04-07-2005, 09:59 AM

JERRYH

04-07-2005, 10:35 AM

Wow....thanks...its A Start And Alot Further Along Than I Was Just 5 Minutes Ago.....have A Great Day.
I Will Check Out Website Also!!

Thanks

Jerry

Justmeinmeimp

04-11-2005, 09:26 PM

I just bought a 1982 Imp Shawnee 17' or 18' 8 person bowrider. It has a 3.8 liter with OMC out drive. It seems to be a very well built boat. I have allready started the rebuilding process. Will be ripping out the carpet and laying in new. But this is a really nice boat and I didn;t have to pay much of anything for it.

We have to replace the seal that is between the back of the boat and the stinger(The drive) It had a 2" rip in it. But i hear it is not much to repair the seal.

It seems as thought these things were built like a tank.

I will let you guys know in about a week if she floats or if she starts to sink :D

JKE

04-12-2005, 12:47 PM

Hi Dot.
So sorry it has taken me so long to write back. I have not been on here in a couple of weeks. As for the IMP Navajo you are considering (if you haven't purchased it already), I don't know what year it is, what it looks like, or what shape it is in. But, if you will give me these details, I will gladly (for what it's worth) give you my opinion. Just FYI, so far, I have nothing but postive things to say about my IMP. As has been said on here, they are built VERY solid, compared to a lot of other manufactured boats from their same era. The hulls are all hand-laid fiberglass, and typically thicker than most. When I recently drilled a 1/2' hole through the stern transom on my Comanche to install the transducer cable (believe me...that was a SCARY thing to have to do!!!!), I discovered the fiberglass/balsa wood composite in that area of the boat was four inches thick! Like I said, very solid boats! I read someone on here called the IMP boats the "cadillacs" of their time. Personally, all the crawling around re-wiring stuff and inspecting every square inch of the boat, I have to say they just don't build 'em like these anymore.....unless you are paying very high top dollar for......a Grady-White fishing boat, or the top-end big Yachts and cruiser Sailboats, for example.
As for where in AZ I live......that would be the Mesa/Tempe area. Not far from the beautiful Superstition Mountains. What about you?
Good luck, Dot, with your boat purchase.
Bye for now.

Jake

Dot

04-13-2005, 11:31 AM

Hi Jake!
Thanks for replying. Ok I don't know much more now than I did before about specifics on the boat. It's an IMP Navajo. Not sure of the year, I think it's a 70 something, but it's in very good shape. It has brand new carpet and upholstery. It has a recently rebuilt Oldsmobile engine. We have not bought it yet but will probably "take possession" in the near future. My father in law bought the boat from my husband's boss, who has had it for many years. The only reason my father in law is wanting to sell it is because it's too hard for him to get in and out of at his age. The boat has a closed bow with a full windshield so he has to do gymnastics moves to get into it without a dock or anything. He wants a brand new pontoon boat! So we're going to buy the IMP which will be our first boat. I know it's a reasonable price because he just wants what he paid for it to my husband's boss. And from what I've heard on here, IMP seems to be a sound investment.

I'm up in Prescott, love it here! Moved out of the valley about 12 years ago and never regretted it. I have noticed lots of Arizonans on here other than us. I think that ibt2 and NadaBoring that have posted before are also in Phoenix. Guess these IMPs are somewhat popular around here and southern Cal. Where do you guys take your boats out to?? We just did an Easter trip to Alamo to do some fishing and hope to make it back for Memorial weekend.

Good luck and tight lines to ya!

Dot

colinv

04-18-2005, 11:22 AM

Finally a little information about IMP. I have heen searching for a while now. I will definitely keep checking this thread. I have a 1968 IMP Comanche that my grandfather purchased new. I have been trying to find any info that I could for a while now. The boat has been in storage for about 5 years and I want to restore it. I remember when I was a kid riding in it and want to get it back to that condition. It has a GM 150 HP inline 6 that was rebuilt about 7 years ago but the person that rebuilt it put the wrong cam in it, so it has sat until I can find info and the $$ to do a full restore.

bhanny

04-18-2005, 02:47 PM

I really don't know how to use this site but here goes. Thought you'd IMP lovers would get a kick out of this. We own a 26 foot 1988 IMP Ilaganza (can't spell). Like you all we've been very curious about where our boat comes from because we've recently rebuilt the floor in it....and we're huge fans. Turns out, the old warehouse where they use to build these things is about 40 minutes from the city we live. I have a crazy story about a friend (who also has an Ilaganza and is a HUGE IMP fanatic) who questioned the grounds keeper of the place for info regarding the purchase of the company and warehouse. Our friend gave the guy his # and was told "someone" would call him and a few days later, our friend gets a call from "someone" who tells him about how the business fell and how much they wanted for it. The whole story is way too long to type out but definitely interesting. Anyone want to invest in a boat company?
BH

ahineman

04-19-2005, 08:07 PM

FINALLY - some IMP owners!

First - I think I can find some info on what happened to IMP... But first, I've got a question. I am thinking of purchasing a 1986 25' IMP but need some info. I believe it is a "Liberty" model, but I cannot find any pictures online and when I search the www.nadaguides.com for that year/size, the motors do not match (NADA says there should be 2 but I know for a fact there is only 1 340 in it). I suspect the NADA models are the Eleganzas and I know for a fact that the boat I looked at was not an Eleganza. Does anyone know if IMP made a "Liberty" model in 1986 and if so, where can I find info?

Now for the IMP history. My wife is actually from Iola and my in-laws still live there. I believe IMP made boats up until 2002, but I'm not sure. I will talk with my father-in-law that seems to know everyone in town (he runs an auto-parts store) and I'm sure he can lead me to someone that knows. Stay tuned....I'll be back with my findings.
-Andy

ahineman

04-21-2005, 05:10 PM

OK - so no one can help me with the model on my boat I guess.

Anyway, I talked with my father-in-law and was told that IMP was never a very well run company even though they produced high-quality boats. They filed for bankruptcy 3-4 times over the years (costing my father-in-law money each time on outstanding parts bills). He said they closed up shop a few years ago (early 2000s) when they finally filed for bankruptcy the final time. If they were bought by another operation, he did not know about that.

Dot

04-27-2005, 01:44 PM

Andy-
I found this 1986 IMP Liberty, does this look similar?

http://www.boats.com/listing/boat_details.jsp?entityid=13568261&searchtype=buy&searchid=1&back=%2Flisting%2Fcache%2Flisting_search_results.jsp%3Fduom%3D126%26searchtype%3Dbuy%26uom%3D126%26luom%3D126%26slim%3Dquick%26psdistance%3D500%26pszipcode%3DZip%26searchPage%3D%252Flisting%252Fcache%252Fquick_search.jsp%26n%3D3%253A1%253A99231%253A105969%253A84%26ps%3D20%26ps%3D20%26so%3D1%26sm%3D3%26wuom%3D126%26man%3DIMP&showDL=false&showMD=false&clk_srclnk_name

Although this one is 27ft instead of 25ft. And it's not real specific on the engine. But maybe that might help you?

1961SHARK

04-27-2005, 02:21 PM

IMP produced boats for the Red Fish Boat Co. of Clarksville, TX for a few years in the late '50's and early '60's. When Red Fish Boat Co. declared bankruptcy, Iola Molded Plastics (IMP) bought the molds and jigs, and began production under their own name.
The early boats made by IMP for Red Fish are now very collectible, some selling for buckets of cash. I'm in the process of bringing a 1961 15' Red Fish Shark runabout back into shape. You can view some "Before restoration" photos of my boat at http://myboatproject.3dup.net
There is also another brand-new site for Red Fish Boat owners and fans at www.redfishclassics.com

grgoyle1229

04-27-2005, 02:48 PM

Hi all
I havent replied in awhile. I have a 1976 IMP Aztec 20ft with a 190hp omcand I found another 302 to replace the block of my current motor and am currently searching for exhaust manifolds since the boat wasnt winterized. The more I look at it the more I want to change. I plan on seperating the seats so that instead of sitting back to back they swivel and face forward. I am going to weld aluminum frames that will allow them to recline and mount them on swivel poles so that they swivel and can face each other. I have already started to weld an aluminum frame for the back seat and plan to make the side compartments of the engine into built in coolers complete with drains. The biggest problem I am having is finding a way to pull the motor since the boat is on the trailer its very high in the air I may just go old school and use a tree. I am totally confident in my abilities to rebuild the engine yet I am concerned about the outdrive system. Does anyone have ideas on how i could test the outdrive without a motor in it? I was hoping i could just put it in gear and turn the drive shaft? I figured if it turned then it should be good but i have no experience with this system all suggestions would be appreciated.

ahineman

04-27-2005, 03:01 PM

Thanks for the pics of the 27' liberty...its very similar to the new 1986 25' IMP Liberty that we just bought. Here are some rough pictures of the new boat (our first cabin cruiser!!). Forgive the resolution - they were taken with my camera.

http://www.kcmetrogolf.com/boat/boat.jpg
http://www.kcmetrogolf.com/boat/cabin.jpg
http://www.kcmetrogolf.com/boat/cockpit.jpg

pinche

04-29-2005, 09:51 PM

I need any info I can get On a 1967 IMP Comanche. I recently purchased this boat but need to find parts. Please send me any info you can! I have not been able to find anything on this year and model! Thanks

Dot

05-20-2005, 11:49 AM

Hiya again everyone! Well we bought the IMP and are counting down til Memorial Weekend. Can't wait! Just an update for Jake- she's a 1971 Navajo, 18 footer, Oldsmobile V6, newer upholstery and carpet. We're happy with our purchase. My husband took her out with his dad (who we bought the boat from) and tested it. Ran great! So we're planning a big trip with family next weekend. Should be great fun.

Thanks for all the info all of you have scrounged up. Pretty happy so far with our investment. Seems to be all that was said of IMP was true. Good luck to all of you. Let's keep this thread alive so us IMP owners can all stay in touch.

JERRYH

05-20-2005, 11:57 AM

My 17 1/2' 1976 Imp Apache Is Still In Need Of A Hull Diagram (map) So That I Can Find Out Were All These Cavity's Go To And Why I Have Standing Water In One Compartment That Wont Drain Out.....anybody That Knows......or Could Help Me In The Correct Direction....im Desperate And Dont Want To Start Drilling Holes Until I See The Whole "picture" (the Hull Diagram!)

Jvh

:-)

Dot

05-20-2005, 12:39 PM

Jerry-

Did you get a response from that snail mail addy?? I kinda figured it wouldn't work out but hopefully was worth a try. I don't know how to help ya, sorry! I don't know where you would get a hull diagram from since IMP is out of business. I've searched online for info and this site was really the most that I've stumbled across. Good luck and if you find anything, pass it along to us.

Dot

WALLE212

05-25-2005, 04:00 PM

Hello, I Am New To This Forum. Came Across It While Searching For
Info On Imp Boats. I Am Looking At A 1973 24' Imp Boat With A Cuddy Cabin And Twin 340hp Chryslers. Where Can I Get Info On Imp
Boats. Boat Needs Some Work, But Is Sea Worthy And Sound.
Thanks
Walt

sjmbk5

05-27-2005, 10:00 AM

ok boaters after a fair amont of research on the internet and when i say fair i mean hours i have finally found out alot about imp boats i too have purchased a 26 foot imp boat without no knowledge of them going out of business and have found out they went out of business in 2002 made great heavy sea worthy boats they were originally redfish but then went to imp which stands for iola molded plastics which is in iola kansas but to find used parts manuals and any and all information about these boats i finally was able to track them down to raymonds boats and motors operating somewhere in the ozarks and the lady that runs the business is charlene and you have to speak to lee in parts there number is 573-372-5115 oh and please say that steve from staten island new york referred you to them thanks and happy boating i hope this info provided to be use ful to all you imp boaters

sjmbk5

06-09-2005, 08:01 AM

hi i can put you in touch with a company that knows alot about imp boats get back to me

ahineman

06-09-2005, 08:31 AM

Let me know who that is. I'd love some info. Thanks!

sjmbk5

06-09-2005, 10:07 AM

raymonds boats and motors 1 573 372 5115 say steve from staten island new york referred you ok

Grover

06-20-2005, 01:31 AM

Hi,
Here is an example of a beautiful IMP. E-bay item # 4556756645. Looks like it is showroom fresh.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?
ViewItem&category=31271&item=4556756645&rd=1&ssPageName=WDVW

Ron

Dot

06-27-2005, 04:22 PM

Thanks Ron for that Ebay link. Very nice IMP! Was interesting to look at since that boat is very similar to mine. Same green and white color scheme. I own a 71 also, but is 18ft instead of 20ft. Also, mine has a full windshield instead of a split dash and windshield. The upholstery has been redone so is not the original green like that boat. But very cool to check out what my boat would've been like original and mint. Thanks again!

Dot

Grover

06-27-2005, 07:22 PM

NadaBoring

07-12-2005, 01:10 PM

Hi Jake. I've got a manual for my 1984 IMP Aztec that might prove helpful to you or anyone else. Mine carry's a 228HP GM motor and OMC outdrive. The boat is currently stored under a T-Hangar in Aguila, Az. We still have not hit the water but it was only HOT weather that is holding us up. We're replacing the tilt motor, fuel guage sending unit and adding audio and speakers, then we'll head in to Phoenix to a upholstery place to have carpet installed. I do need a new power & shift control unit. The handle on top is missing and while I can use it, it's kind of awkward. Have not yet found a replacement unit that is comparable to the original. The manual is in the boat at Aguila and I'm currently in Phoenix but next time I'm there (probably late August) I'll bring it home with me so I can tell everyone what info it contains.

John

Dot

07-20-2005, 12:30 PM

Ron-
Yes that was a very nice boat. Thought she sold for a lil low for the condition it was in, but I guess they might not have had a demand for that old of a boat if they needed cash now. I didn't catch your link until after the auction was over, but was pretty neat to look at. Wow your boat sounds like quite a project! But you seem to know your stuff when it comes to boat motors. Good luck and let us know how she turns out when you're done.

John-
I might be interested in looking at your manual for your '84. I'm in AZ also, near Prescott. Mine is a lil bit older than yours, a '71 but some of the info might still be the same. I'm guessing that since it's stored in Aguila that you must do most of your boating at Alamo. Have been there several times this year with ours. Much fuller right now than normal, fishing was great. Let me know when ya get your manual, I'm curious to look at it possibly. Is it real lengthy? Or could ya run me off a copy? I'll pay ya for copy and postage. Let me know. Thanks!

Dot

NadaBoring

07-20-2005, 02:14 PM

Dot, the book is quite thick. But, I'll see what it would cost to have it copied and get back to you. Write me at nadaboring@cox.net if you want. Actually, we haven't got our boat in the water yet. But, Alamo or Pleasant will be our choice for regular fishing. After the dove hunt on Sept. 1 we plan to take it to Lake Powell for a week of fishing and relaxing...

John

Grover

07-20-2005, 02:59 PM

Hi Dot,

I have a complete Mercruiser Service Manual, published in 1973, like new. It
covers everything that Mercruiser mfg'ed up to then, including engines, outdrives, wiring diagrams, steering and controls, ect. If you need information that I might have, drop me a line at freeidaho@citlink.net and we will figure out some way to get it to you.

Ron

Dot

07-20-2005, 03:51 PM

John and Ron-
Thanks for the replies guys! Well I just wanted a manual to have on hand. We didn't get anything with the boat and thought it would be nice to have. The boat runs great right now (knock on wood LOL!). But would like to have something for the future to troubleshoot if we ever do have problems. I will admit that we are some what ignorant when it comes to boat motors and know even less about the workings of outdrives. I just want to make sure we take care of her so that it'll last us for many more years. I know it has an OMC outdrive and believe that the motor is OMC also. Don't know the HP or anything more. Ron, is OMC the same as Mercruiser? Did you both get those with the boat or did you buy them? If you bought them maybe I could look into that option so that I don't have to inconvience you. If you did buy them, from where? I have looked for info online and have found very little.

John-well hope you get a chance to get in the water soon. But I hear ya on waiting til it cools down. We've even had 100 degree days up here in the mountains. Powell sounds like a good plan to me. Beautiful lake and going in Sept. will be the off season for the tourists!

Thanks for all your help guys! Appreciate it!

Latch48

07-29-2005, 12:55 AM

I just joined this group and saw the discussion on IMPs. I just purchased a 1970 INCA. It is a 23 footer, had a 327 originally, but owner switched to a 1981 350 Chev Truck engine a few years ago. I bought it from the original owner, and he hated to part with it, but just didn't use it anymore. He gave me the books that came with it, and I plan to scan them and save to a disc in a PDF format. I don't think I will be able to get to it for a few weeks, but if anyone is interested in a copy, I will supply for the cost of material and shipping. I want to refinish the boat, and am looking for flooring alternatives other than carpeting. I would like to go with something similar to the original, I think what is there now is the original. It appears to be a thin vinyl sheet glued to the floor and is a woven reed pattern. Any idea where I can find that material or similar? I have tried the local flooring companies and the home improvement stores with no luck.
Latch

Latch48

07-29-2005, 12:59 AM

Oh, I forgot to mention, I am looking for a trailer for this boat, and will drive to get one if necessary. I also need help if anyone knows what the 1970 Inca weighs, I need that info to identify the proper trailer, hoping I can get it without pulling it out of the water and weighing it.

Emmett

08-02-2005, 02:13 PM

I am going to look at and probabley buy a 20' IMP Cuddy Cabin today. It is going to be a project boat. The inside is pretty rough, it looks like it has been setting out in the sun for a while. I was told the motor (V8 350) has been rebuilt, with 0 hours on the rebuid.
I know these are heavy boats, how are they to pull? I have a 96 Dodge Ram 1500 with a 5.9LT V8.
Any other info would be great.
Thank you,
Emmett

grgoyle1229

08-02-2005, 04:17 PM

Emmett that Dodge should have no problem towing that boat but I have a freind that has the same model and he had 3 trannys put in it before it hit 100,000 yet he uses it to haul landscape equipment.

grgoyle1229

08-02-2005, 04:20 PM

Latch48

08-04-2005, 11:42 PM

Emmett

08-05-2005, 12:55 AM

Latch, I would like a copy of those as well if you don't mind. Thank you, Emmett

Dot

08-05-2005, 10:09 AM

Latch-

That sounds great! Thanks for volunteering to take on that task! LOL. No rush, just whenever you get to it. Like I said before, I don't really need it right now but would like to have for reference when I do! Let me know when you get it done. Thanks again!

Dot

Latch48

08-05-2005, 11:20 PM

Emmett

08-10-2005, 12:46 AM

I just picked up my IMP today. It is a 1970 20' Chevy 350, and it is in need of alot of work before it will be going in the water. Any tips, advise are all welcome. Also, there is a picture of my boat I bought new in 1996. Thank you, Emmett

grgoyle1229

08-10-2005, 01:58 AM

Emmett
I got a 76 IMP Aztec im now tearing totally down. I got the motor totally stripped and am now working on removing the flooring and replacing the stringers and possibly even the transom but im hoping for the best. You say you got a 350 chevy I have a 302 and was wondering what danger there would be to my outdrive by adding horse power if any? If you got any tips let me know or if you got any questions send em my way maybe I could help.

rbdb80

08-13-2005, 12:00 AM

Hi ship mates.
I 'm glad that so many of you have enjoyed your IMP as much as we have. I am the original owner of a 1976 18 ft. Pawnee tri-hull. It has the 302 V-8 (233 hp) merc. (425 hrs.)and it has been the most reliable boat I've been around. This boat still has the original interior (clean back to back seating) along with the original factory fitted canvas tarp. It is a heavy boat that can pull a large adult skier on one ski. I recently blasted and painted the tandem shore station trailer to match the boat(maroon/white) and have nearly new tires on it. I have also added a teak wood swim deck for easy in and out of the water and a depth finder. Mechanically A-1 shape. Looking to sell this boat, pictures available, drop me a line. Can be seen/driven in central Ill. rbdb80@yahoo.com

Gunshy

08-14-2005, 07:08 PM

Greetings all new to this site and thougt i would say hello.
I have a 1968 IMP Navajo 18' Runabout 250cid chevy L6 (Mercruiser 160 & Mercruiser Outdrive).
I got the boat about 2 months ago and I'm in the process of redoing it. so far I've replaced the motor with a rebuilt long block (the old one had water in the oil),new Exhaust/intake manifold,new 4bbl carb,elect fuel pump,new electronic ign.,new trim tabs(Lenco)and reupholstered the whole interior.!
I will post some pic's as soon as i get a chance. :D :D

Emmett

08-14-2005, 07:40 PM

grgoyle1229, I have stripped the interior of the boat out, except the flooring. It all seems pretty solid. I am going to redo all the interior back to the original (the best I can anyway). As far as uping you're HP, I don't know about that. I won't have to do to much to the motor, it was rebuilt before I got it. I will have to take the outdrive off, to replace the transom seal. At this point, it looks like all I will have to do is some minor fiberglass patches from some chips. And redo the interior, and paint. I am not going to get in a hurry to do it. I want it to come out nice. I have never done anything like this before, but this boat just looked like it had a lot of potentol (sp).

grgoyle1229

08-15-2005, 02:01 AM

Emmett
I unfortunately have alot of rebuilding to do. It seems the more parts I check the more I have to replace. So much I wont even attempt to list. I have found some good sites for parts though like aftermarket discount marine they have huge inventory and seem to be moderatly priced but if you know of somewhere better do say. I have to tear up the flooring and get a good look at the stringers hopefully they arent bad but I know better. Ill have to remove the inner hull and go to work if they are. Im really just looking forward to building the motor. I purchased a 351w which has the same bell housing pattern as the 302 that was originally in the boat. Which is why im worried about the outdrive being able to handle the extra hp. But I guess trial and error are the true way of man so Ill let you know what happens.

Grover

08-15-2005, 09:10 AM

Hi All,
Mercruiser outdrives are rated by HP, 140, 160, 165 on up. The upper and lower housings are pretty much the same but the gearing changes as HP increaces. Your outdrive has to match the HP of your engine. Fine tuning of the WOT will be determined by the dia and pitch of the prop. It's better to over build the outdrive than the engine. Cheaper in the long run as outdrives are spendy to rebuild.
Haven't gotten into OMC or Volvo but suspect they are much the same as Merc.

Ron

Latch48

08-15-2005, 12:31 PM

Is there no way to check the stringers without tearing up the entire floor? I would like to check mine, but hate to have to pull up the whole floor, if unneccessary. Would appreciate the URL to anyplace that has material or parts for sale for our boats.
Thanks

BloodSweatnBeer

08-17-2005, 08:58 AM

Good Morning all. I'm new to this forum and pleased to see a group of I.M.P. fans gathered to discuss a great boat. I recently acquired an X190 with a 305 V8 carburated Mercruiser. I LOVE this boat and the work it's taking to get it ship shape.

Here's a question/comment. A number of years ago a friend of mine owned a Wellcraft 190 Classic built in the late '80's. I would swear that his hull is identical to mine, right down to the layout of the cuddy. I even want to recall that the USCG plate said I.M.P. on it which didn't make any sense to me at the time. I really liked that boat too. Did I.M.P. build hulls to be rigged by other boat manufactures?

duxback

08-19-2005, 11:17 AM

I'm sure you have gotten several responses on the weight for your 1970 Inca. I have a 1974 model and if I'm not mistaken the data plate shows the weight of my boat at 5400 lbs. I hope this will help. These are heavy boats.

Thanks,
duxback

Emmett

08-19-2005, 11:29 AM

grgoyle1229, I don't have as much tear down as you do. I have the interior all torn out, the floor is in good shape. I am patching fiberglass today, and sanding. Then I will take off all the crome items and get it ready to paint the top (above water), then carpet, and the rest of the interior. That will take a while, I can not work on it very fast. I have a very bad lower back, so I can only work on it a little at a time. I don't have an outlet for aftermarket items, I have been looking at West Marine. They have quite a bit of stuff, If you don't mind I would like to know what sites you are getting the after market items from.
How is it going with you're rebuild?
Emmett

duxback

08-19-2005, 11:33 AM

I don't know if this will get to you or not. Here's go's again..... I have a 1974 Inca and the data plate reads that the weight is 5400 lbs. if I remember correctly.
I hope this helps.

Thanks,
duxback

duxback

08-19-2005, 12:10 PM

I'm new at this site, I have a 1974 IMP Inca 23' hardtop. I would like to know if anyone has ever did an engine swap by installing twin Mercrusier 140's or Volvo, etc. Can it be done? Any information will be helpful.

Utzinger

08-20-2005, 08:17 PM

Hi,I am new on this message board. I have just bought a Iola boat model INCA 1969 cuddy cabin 22.5 feet. The orginal motor has been replaced with a 1989 Corvette engine. My question is the side windows are missing. What type of windows was used originaly? I am going to have sliding windows if possible. But, I would like to have some suggestions on this matter. Also, I have replace the canvas top and the bottom needs some work on it. Should I have all the wiring replaced since it is such an older boat? I was amazed as to the remarks about the IOLA Boats and there durability on Lake Erie. I have always been a lake Erie fishing person. Sincerely Tom

Emmett

08-20-2005, 09:09 PM

Tom, I am not sure what model my IMP is, but I have pics posted up in post #62. If anyone knows what model it is, let me know please. As far as the wireing goes, If it is old and weathered, I would suggest to replace it. I have stripped out the inside of my boat and doing alot of sanding. I am going to try and get it back to the original style. Any suggestions or pics of others would be great. Thank you, Emmett

Admin

08-21-2005, 05:24 PM

(this reply came in via email from duxback)
I have a 1974 model Inca hardtop 23'...... here are a couple of pictures of my windows, I hope this will help you a little.....

Utzinger

08-21-2005, 06:08 PM

Thanks for the info on the boat windows. Those pictures are like the windows in my Iola IMP boat. That sure helped me out. I was thinking it should look like those pictures and now I will get them replaced sometime this week.

Tom Utzinger

Utzinger

08-21-2005, 06:09 PM

Thanks Emmett for the info. I found out today that the boat had been rewired about 3 years ago. Tom

huntn2kill

08-28-2005, 08:44 PM

just bought a IMP x270si 1984 it has 2 350 chevys I/0 need manuals or info on boat. needs a lot of work been sitting 5 yrs in weather. Just cleand up the paint and inside came out nice! It has a water heater but can't find the water holding tank. anyone with info on this model boat please get a hold of me thanks

FlBadgers

09-04-2005, 10:23 PM

My dad used to work as a truckdriver for IMP boats. He says they went out of business right after the oil embargo. He left the company in '77. He can remember that they made pontoons for houseboats in Florida, floating boat docks and "Kadoo" recreational craft. The Kadoo was a six wheel craft that could spin on a dime and go across water.

FlBadgers

09-04-2005, 10:36 PM

My dad drove truck for IMP. It says the 20 foot was called the Aztec.

16' - Apache
17' - Navajo
18' - First called Oceananic, then called Pawnee after a re-design
The Oceananic had a kind of blunt front end and didn't ride real well.
20' - Aztec
23' - Inca

He thinks that after they were bought out, they dropped the Indian names and went to another naming convention.

Emmett

09-05-2005, 03:10 AM

FIBadgers, thanks for the info. Anything else you're dad know could be helpful to someof us. Does he have any old pics or brochures or anything of any of the boats? Thank you, Emmett

c172

09-05-2005, 08:44 AM

Bought mine new in 86 had it out yesterday! Mine has a 350 in it and the first thing I did was installed a fresh water cooling kit as I use it in salt water.
The boat followed me down from NJ in 1990.Let me know how your's is doing

Don

Emmett

09-05-2005, 12:15 PM

Mine is in the middle of being restored. Right now everything is out of the interior, and I am doing a lot of sanding, and some fiberglass work. It will be a while before it gets in the water. But when it does, It will look good (I hope). I will post some pics in the next couple of days, showing where I am now, compared to the pics I posted already.

earendal

09-13-2005, 03:03 PM

Im getting a 71 IMP Santee in October. Does anyone have any information on this model of boat?

KStearns

09-24-2005, 09:23 AM

I would be interested in the material when you have scanned it, and would be happy to reimburse you for the expense.

Latch48

10-05-2005, 02:45 PM

I have the material scanned and on a CD. It is the parts manual for the 1969 80, 120, 155 and 210 motors and lower unit, and the shop manual for the 210 motor and lower unit. I am sending out today to Mr.'s Shirako, Utzinger and Korom. If anyone else wanted a copy, you probably didn't send me your address. I am asking $5.00 for it, just the cost of the material and mailing expense. If you want a copy, send me your mailing address to larrylachat@hotmail.com. Also, if you have done any work on your own boats, feel free to send me pictures. I am always looking for ideas to do with mine. Does anybody know if there is anyway to convert these over to Hardtops? Mine is a 23' Inca, and I would love to convert it. I am also interested in copies of any other manuals or parts catalogs for any year. Has anyone been able to locate the hull diagrams for the older IMPS?

jstcrzyengh

10-05-2005, 03:02 PM

Here is a converted pilothouse, not sure the model, I believe it is a 24' though:

Emmett

10-05-2005, 10:31 PM

Latch48, Thank you, I will be looking for that in the mail.

KStearns

10-06-2005, 06:58 AM

Yes I would greatly appreciate the info you have.
Please

evanstein

10-10-2005, 08:34 AM

Here is a pick of my 02' maybe the last boat out of Iola!

NadaBoring

10-10-2005, 06:50 PM

I have a 76 IMP Aztec and just pulled the original 302 out and planned to rebuild another 302 to put in but when I pulled the motor the fiberglass under the motor compartment was cracked and upon further inspection I found that there was water under the fiberglass and seems to be rotten. I am determined to get this thing in the water some day and need some info on what to do. Can I remove the motor compartment and reglass under it? It seems like it will be a very demanding job if anyone has any advice please reply!

I am going through just what you describe about motor mounts. I've been quoted a grand to pulll the engine and rebuild the area - that's assuming there is rot in the fiber glass. If there is none the price will drop accordingly. It's a necessary chore, however, as operating an IMP without good motor mounts can really screw up the outdrive. I orginally thought my boat was a 1984 per the seller's information, but see by the title which recently arrived that I've got a '73. Our trip to Powell never materialized and now we're looking at November for our first wet down cruise. Whatever. Just working on this boat makes me happy, so I can imagine how pleased I'll be when we head out across Lake Mead. Best to all, and I'm really enjoying the comments..........John

smac6

10-11-2005, 03:00 PM

I just purchased my first boat, a 1990 IMP Europa 205 with a 230hp 5.8 liter Cobra OMC. I’m new to boating and as many of you, have found VERY little on the net about the boat. I had a mechanic check it out and he loved it and for the price I feel it was a bargain. It’s clean as can be, in good shape. I’d love to receive any info anyone may have on these boats. If I find something or someone, I’ll pass it on too. Hope to keep us IMP owners talking.

tweakin

10-12-2005, 07:55 PM

epsdecasablanca

11-01-2005, 03:29 PM

Hello Dot.
OMC and Mercruiser are not the same. My last boat had a 120 HP Merc, and the outdrive from it, and the OMC on the IMP are completely different. I have the manual for the 70 IMP OMC motor and outdrive, (actually it is labeled for 1969 but apparently the same) It is the service manual, and covers complete breakdown and rebuild. I also have the Stern drive parts catalog for the 80, 120, 155 and 210 HP OMC, Evinrude and Johnson. I plan on scanning each of these, and saving in a PDF format. I will then transfer to a CD to store. Let me know if you want a copy. I will get to you for cost of mailing. Will be a few weeks before I can get to it, but once I get it started, it will only take me a couple of days to finish it. Parts catalog is 82 pages, and Service manual is about 3 times that size.
Latch48

Latch,

I would very much like to obtain copies of your IMP related manuals and would be pleased to pay for CD's and your time., please email me at epstephenson@netzero.net.

Incidentally, the NADA web site (blue book) indicates that IMP boats in this size range weigh between 4100 and 4400 Lbs + trailer, depending on the engine and whether fitted with a hardtop. I just towed a INCA with a full size sedan fitted with 3500 lb hitch for 400+ miles. The trailer allowed the boat to set fairly far back and the tongue weight did not bottom out the rear of the car. Like yourself, I am doing a rebuild.

Thanks,

Ed

NadaBoring

11-01-2005, 05:55 PM

oneloho

11-06-2005, 12:27 PM

hey all. i am located in kansas city missouri. my family just inherited my grandfathers 73 aztec. solid boat. 305chev omc. lil over 1200 hours on it.
my father used to work for imp. he cut all the fiberglass when they came out of the molds to prep them to be bonded together. he said they were some of the smallest buildings he has ever worked in.

Now to my real question any place i can find some parts? i know exactly where Raymond's is we buy our parts there all the time. we have a lake house down at the ozarks. Is he the best place to go?

oneloho

11-06-2005, 12:28 PM

Nada my father had the same problems with the motor mounts he took a piece of angle iron and used that back there instead of the fiberglass. he said it was a weak spot even from the plant. he said he brought thtat up to them many times

KCAztec73

11-28-2005, 12:09 PM

oneloho,
I too have taken ownership of the family's 73 Aztec. Great boat. I grew up riding in this boat and now am enjoying the ownership side of it. When I first got the boat I had to have the water pump in the outdrive rebuilt and then had to replace the tilt motor. I found a place here in KC that works on the old OMC drivers. It's US Boat Works in KC, KS. They fixed me right up when I needed the repairs done. Here's a parts site for old stringer 800 parts. http://www.sterndrive.info/

I would love to some pics of your Aztec if you've got any.

Emmett

12-07-2005, 01:11 AM

This is what it looked like when I picked her up.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a52/emmettk/ImpWhenBought2.jpghttp://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a52/emmettk/Impwhenbought1.jpg

This is where I am now. I have gone through a ton of sand paper, and sweet.
I still have a lot left to do, but this is it so far.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a52/emmettk/IMPhalfdone2.jpg
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a52/emmettk/Imphalfdone1.jpg

Let me know what you think.
Emmett

KCAztec73

12-07-2005, 09:22 AM

Looking good. Keep up the hard work. Everytime I see an old IMP I get excited that I own one. What a great looking boat that's gonna be. I like the color you've chosen for the deck. Is that a 225 OMC? If in your restoration process you run across the 225 plate and the round OMC plate that goes on the top of the outdrive please let me know where to get them. I'm looking for those 2 items to dress up my OMC 225. Great job on your restoration project. How's the engine look?

KCAztec73

12-07-2005, 09:27 AM

Here's my '73 Aztec. 307 Chevy, 225 OMC. The 'Aztec' sticker on the side by the IMP logo was not added by IMP until I believe '75. My dad bought this sticker at an IMP dealer and put it on. Other than that and the guages it's still stock.

Emmett

12-07-2005, 04:59 PM

KCAztec73, Thank you for the comments. If I come across those plates somewhere I will let you know. And yes, it is the 225, same motor as you'rs, and it seems to be pretty sound.
I am looking forward to getting it in the water, but don't want to rush it.
Can you take some pics of the interior of you're boat and send to me at
jhk3531@aol.com? I want to see a couple different interiors to see how I want to do it.
Thank you,
Emmett

KCAztec73

12-07-2005, 07:05 PM

I have some interior pics that I took when I went down to winterize this last time. As soon as I get my scanner working I'll scan them and send them to you. So how far are you taking your '70 down? I'm curious to know if your has the trim system on it. I know that that Aztec and maybe some other IMP's have a trim of sorts built into the rear of the hull so the faster the boat goes the further the nose goes down. I was just curious if IMP included the trim system for the OMC.

Jim

oneloho

12-09-2005, 08:23 PM

kcaztec that is the spitting image of my boat except my brother let it roll down the driveway into a tree so now i need some fiberglass work do you guys know of a place in kansas city area to have this done at. and at a reasonable price

KCAztec73

12-09-2005, 09:27 PM

Ouch. I guess your brother won't be riding on the tube for awhile, eh? I haven't had much experience with fiberglass shops. There is a place on 7 hiway on the way into Clinton, MO from 71. I think it's called Truman Fiberglass. They've been there for as long as I can remember. I don't have a contact number for them but I'll look around the web for one. You might call US Boat works and see who they recommend. That's who I use when I need work on the old OMC. Good luck.

Jim

oneloho

12-09-2005, 10:07 PM

thanx i know the place you are talking about i forgot all about them they fixed my dad's drag boat way back when.

NadaBoring

01-03-2006, 07:34 PM

I found this snail mail address but I'm not sure if it's current anymore because from what I understand IMP is no longer in business. But worth a try:

IMP MARINE
PO BOX 102
IOLA, KS 66749

Found that on www.nadaguides.com, a good appraisal site if you're curious what you IMP is worth. Or even if you're curious what models where made each year, because it lists them by year. Good luck!

Dot

Dot, the Navajo is a bit smaller than the Aztec and both are great boats. You will love the Navajo. It's responsive, rides the waves like a bigger vessel and was nicely put together. It's a great boat for skiing, boating, fishing or just tooling around the lake. Very economical too. Sorry to be so late in getting back to you, but just haven't checked this forum lately. My own 1984 IMP Aztec is in Las Vegas now at my partner's house. I'm heading there this week to help put the engine back in the boat and a few other things, then we'll hit Lake Mead. At that time I'll also check about getting our manual put on a cd if possible. Have talked to others about doing this and the manual is in my partner's hands and he's kind of forgetful these day. We're both in our upper 70's so that's to be expected. Anyway, buy the Navajo. You won't be sorry. And if you do buy it and aren't satisfied, write me and I'll find someone to take it off your hands. Best.

John Boring

grey cat

01-08-2006, 02:38 PM

Jimbo1

01-14-2006, 05:12 PM

Hello
I have a 1990 IMP Ashanti 190 and was looking through Nada Guide and they list Ashanti BR and Ashanti SC.
Does anyone know what BR and SC stand for?

Thanks for any info

Jim

nevadamike

01-20-2006, 12:05 PM

Dot and Emmet and anyone else looking for a copy, send mailing info to me at larrylachat@hotmail.com and I will get it out. As I said, it will probably be a few weeks b4 I get it done. I am still looking for information on the weight of the boat, and still looking for a trailer for mine. Any help is appreciated. If anyone out there has a 70's Imp Inca, I need info so I can get a trailer for it.
Thanks.
Hi. I'm new to this, but own a 1974 IMP Inca. Weighs 5500 pounds. Mine is trailered on a tandem axle trailer with 3500 lb axles. Rather large rig when all loaded ready to go, but one helluva boat. I also have service and maintenance manuals, but no hull diagrams. My guess is these no longer exist, if they ever did. Mold designs (therefore diagrams) are pretty closely held information, as specific secrets can be copied after publication. These boats were lapstake hulls with extremely robust construction. but curiosly the manufacturer pop-riveted the upper decks to the hull without any fiberglass layup. Probably not all that important, considering the quality of the hull, but sufficient to keep these boats off the list of desired collector boats. Hope it helps.

nevadamike

01-20-2006, 12:25 PM

I purchased a 1990 IMP last July 2004. I think they are very well built boats. I think on repowering the boat. What you think?
32' overall lenght 34'8" powered with twin 454 bravo1 it cruises 32k max 42k
What is the web site for IMP owners?
Congrats on your purchase. One of the very finest day-cruisers everbuilt. Question, though. Why repower? I mean, as long as the power plants are sound. If not.... . My thoughts and opinion are that as far as power goes, you probably won't get much more than the 454 set-up can provide. Most likely, you will find the economics of the proposal are in the realm of 'diminishing returns'. You probably can power up, but at very high cost. of course, if the engines no longer perform to spec, then you are looking at rebuild, repower, repairs, whatever the case may be. Opinion-wise, for the money, power does not get any better than twin 454 Crusaders. Several outfits provide Crusaders for marine power re-fits. Sorry to butt in like this... good luck and nice boat.

nevadamike

01-20-2006, 02:19 PM

Hi Dot,
Glad you enjoyed the pictures. That is one beautiful boat.

Well I got me an IMP. It is a 1968, I was told, 20' Hardtop. Don't know what they called it, maybe someone out there can tell me the model name.
Ser #KH201002. It has a Mercruiser 250 cid inline six and 160 outdrive.

The engine is shot, the tandem axle trailer needs one axle, the sides of the hardtop need replaced, the outdrive needs gone thru, cleaned, inspected, new gaskets and seals and the rest is cosmetic work. Not bad for $345.00.
Had to go to Salt Lake to get it, 450mi. Boat and trailer sold new in SL.

I am going to build a 250 for it with alum dual, single brl carb manifold, HEI ignition, propane pistons (10:1), larger intake and exhaust valves, hope to increase valve od by a 1/4", ported polished and relieved to make it breath better.Expect to get 130+ net hp @ 3800 rpm with proper prop. It will also have a closed cooling system with a 4"x31" heat exchanger, oil cooler and p/s cooler. Heat exchanger holds 2 gals of engine coolant, should be more than enough for the 250. Going to add P/S assist to the O/D, easier on the arms. Boat also has hyd tilt and hyd trim, adj outboard bracket.

Nothing like having a hole in the water to throw money into.

Ron Greetings, Ron,
Where in Idaho do you live? milage to SLC sounds like Boise. I live in the Elko, Nv area. Also own an IMP. Inca 23'. Can't help with model designation of your boat, but someone has posted the size-model relation info in here somewhere.
Engine specs look good, but watch prop/temp/altitude/rpm portion of the mix.
Should be a serious inline. Cam it for torque and away you go.
I am currently rennovating the Inca (by the way we should be refering to the hulls as we have named them), mine is named after my wife, therefore, BATTLEAXE. I'll be removing the hard top, and replacing it with a marlin tower and topside observation platform/seat. Also converting the seating to a helm chair arrangement with port and starboard lounges, and after fishing chairs, either side of the engine cover.
Do you plan to use your boat in the salt water? Just wondering about the cooling system. I will be repowering, but have not yet decided on a 350 or 454. Will use heat exchanger though. Boat used to fish the Baja, home port was S.F. Cal.
Shout back sometime, maybe we can get together sometime. Mike.

nevadamike

01-20-2006, 03:00 PM

This is a general message to all hands who are working on older IMPs. Have noticed many messages about water being trapped in different areas. One area you all should probably take a look at is in the gasoline tank compartment. Mine is built into the deck and had a wooden plank over it with about a million screws. When I got the cover off I found the tank was totally surrounded by water and all the packing between the tank and the hole was rotten. The hole is totally glass so no rotting wood but it seems strange there was no drainage method built into the boat design. Just thought I'd pass that on and while I might have opened up another problem area it's best to know about these things. We're replacing the wood under the starboard side motor mounts on my '73 IMP Aztec now. An easy job except for pulling the engine. Good luck to all.

John Hello, John,
I too, own an IMP, but mine (BATTLEAXE) is an Inca. I also had the "water in the fuel cell locker" issue. I think maybe these other folks are looking at the same. We need to carefully consider this drainage issue. You are quite correct about the construction of the locker, and the observation about the lack of drain hole. The probable reason for this is to keep any fuel residue contaminates away from ordinary bilge. Please always remember we are dealing with gasoline-powered engines, and this fuel is extremely unstable.
Keeping the fuel/bilge seperate helps to prevent or at least diminish the chance of accidental ignition of fuel vapors. I strongly urge everyone to install blowers in the engine room to evacuate the space before startup. As for the fuel cell locker, the only fix I can think of is to leave a small void from top to bottom in the foam surrounding the cell. Locate this void at the after centerline of the arrangement. In the deck covering the locker, either fashion a small hatch, or allow for complete removal to access this area. Use a siphon-type pump (or fuel transfer pump) to suck the contaminated bilge from this area. The ship's ordinary bilge elimination will safely handle any spillage. The frequency of the drainage process will depend, obviously, on the useage and level of contamination. Another thought is that this contamination is not an immediate threat,(as the fuel cell is constructed of aluminum) so annual or seasonal maintenance should suffice.
I would very much like to meet you some time, if you ever travel to Lake Mead or Powell. Mike M, master and commander,"BATTLEAXE".

NadaBoring

01-23-2006, 08:57 PM

Mike, Master & Commander of BATTLEAXE, you were right on the money with your comments about fuel contamination of the bilge area. I like your siphon idea for that area. We're going to seal our tank cover as good as humanly possible, but now we might rethink that and add the siphon area. The tank is made of aluminum as you said, but we found deep pits on top and bottom of the tank. One or two were deep enough to penetrate into the tank, but I think that happend only after we started cleaning out the pits. We used JB weld to seal all the pits and put the tank back in the boat along with a new fuel guage sending unit. For those of you who have expressed interest in our manual, (it covers from 1968 to 1986, I believe) please know that we are still exploring ways to get it all copied onto cd's. We have to find someone to do this for us as we haven't the foggiest notion about accomplishing this. Told you previously we're both in our mid 70's. Just talked to my partner in Las Vegas who tells me the engine is repainted and ready to be reinstalled. After that a compression check, timing and we plan to fish a Phoenix-area lake in February. He also has the manual so I'll keep on him to get that copied if he can. Any suggestions from anyone about how to get that done? One final comment. We had to re-glass the motor mount areas (took out and replaced the wood, then put glass over that) and my pard then applied Bondo to the replaced areas, sanded it all down and repainted. Good as new and much cheaper than what we were quoted by a boat repairshop. Don't know about the rest of you, but we're finding this restoring business to be almost as much fun as fishing. Almost. Best to all and good luck with your projects. Hate to read how some are turning old IMP's into HOT boats. They were so perfect as God originally made them........ John

ltunecpa

01-29-2006, 03:35 PM

i have a 1990 270 express cruiser with a 330 hp merc bravo 1 and it runs great.bought it new in 1991.this has been the best riding boat of this size i have ever riddin on.ive been in rough water as much as 8-10foot and not been disapointed.wish they were still in buisness.am looking to move on to larger boat.after looking at some of the other posts,have some info as for some info on a 270 express.water tank located in floor behind helm seat next to fuel tank.

JungleJim

02-14-2006, 09:58 PM

Hey: Glad to have found fellow I.M.P owners. I was given a complete basket case a couple years ago and I've been restoring my 1976 23 footer for just about that long now. I have taken it down to the bare hull and rebuilt everything. I am now putting her back together. As you have found out, boat parts are not available. Accordingly, I have had to make some fiberglass molds for such things as engine hatch, fuel tank hatch, bait wells and other various parts. So, if you need something, I may have templates or can glass a part from my molds for you. I don't want to make a business of this but am wiling to share as time permits. I'll post some photos of where I started and where I am now one day when It's raining.

NadaBoring

02-15-2006, 10:59 AM

Nice to see new IMP owners discovering this site. I'm betting you will get some hits on your offer to share templates. Our own IMP, a 1973 AZTEC, is pretty much intact and nothing required along that line. Wanted to report that the manual we have is the OMC manual - covers outdrives and motors and nothing about IMP layouts and designs. This particular manual is available at West Marine for about $30, I understand. If your boat doesn't employ OMC equipment it might not be of much use. Most early IMPs used OMC outdrives and GMC motors. Latest report on our Aztec: The boat is back in Arizona with the newly painted engine in place, sitting on rebuilt motor mounts. We're hooking up the fuel system and batteries today and will test the systems, hopefully by tomorrow. If all is go, we'll secure the hatch over the gas tank and pull the boat to Lake Pleasant, outside of Phoenix for our shakedown cruises. We both (my friend and partner and I) brought our fishing gear and plan to wet a line if the boat doesn't sink or go bust on us - something we're not anticipating. Best to all IMP boat owners.

1969imp

02-23-2006, 01:19 AM

my name is shane and i have a 18' Santee Runabout imp boat and i am having trouble locating some parts for this boat. it has an omc stringer outdrive and i need to get a transom seal because mine is shot. and considering it is impossible to find any good info on these boats i decided to try this. i bought my boat 2 years ago and have been slowly re-modeling it. i also was wondering if anyone knows the quickest and safest way to replace the transom seal. thanks.

NadaBoring

02-23-2006, 08:47 AM

Shane, replacing the transome seal on an OMC is not as daunting a task as it might seem. We just replaced ours (1973 IMP Aztec) in Las Vegas at a boat repair shop. Had a new impellor put in at the same time. Total bill was appx. $300. I recommend letting a professional do this chore, but I am sure you can do it yourself if you want. Only difference to our transome seal now is that it is black, where it formerly was white. For full info on OMC outdrives get the book I mentioned in my previous post from West Marine. Good luck.

John Boring

Imp X250 SE

02-26-2006, 08:42 PM

I just stumbled on the site , I own a 1986 X250 SE (D

BloodSweatnBeer

02-27-2006, 04:51 PM

I own an IMP X190 cuddy, 305ci Mercruiser 898 built in 1986 I beleive. Has anyone ever come up with any hull diagrams? I may have to replace my fuel tank because I can see some pitting in the original and I'd consider downsizing the tank and using the remaing space for a live-well. Any ideas?

As others have said, this is one quality boat. I've run mine on Lake Michigan a few times and have had much larger boats running in my wake to ease their passage. My buddies 21' Sea Ray would beat me to death in a light chop while my little IMP rides comfortably through 2 to 3 foot seas.

1969imp

02-28-2006, 12:37 AM

well i have got the transom seal replaced in my imp and now i am taking out the rear seats and i am building a custom rear engine cover with a bunch of pole holders and a bbq for my lunch ... when i catch it lol. now i am re-doing all of the wiring and i am going to paint it. i will post some pics in a few weeks so u all can see the boat. thanks again for having a page that al imp owners can chat.

Tyson

03-06-2006, 04:14 PM

So I am a new member. I assume you have an Aztec. I am also in KC and bought an Aztec about a year ago. The engine was not running when I bouth it. I put new heads in it and am getting the rest of the engine put together. Do you know any reasonable mechanics to work on these? I am wanting to get it on the water this year!! Thanks

kw1605

03-08-2006, 10:55 PM

another imp owner. i just got it today 88 235 eleganza i also have the same problem with the water surrounding the tank. its been so cold here its turned to ice so now im trying to figure out how to get it out or just wait to warmer weather to remove it? it need the rear bench and engine cover reupoholystered ill post a pic just dont know how to resize image

Ghost Rider 2

03-11-2006, 02:38 PM

I am reading of all the interst in IMP boats. I just bought a 1966 IMP boat. I got it for the Mercury outboard. This boat is way to nice to partout or junk. It is very solid. Floor is great. The paint on the top is faded. It is red and white. The seats are a little dry, but not torn up. Overall the boat looks pretty nice. Could use a good cleaning and maybe new carpet. It is 18 foot and has a trailer. NO MOTOR. It still has the steering also. I removed the engine and the controls. The underside of the boat also looks good. If anyone knows anyone that would want to buy this boat. Let me know. I will let it go pretty cheap. It is a nice project. If you have a outboard, it would take very little to get it going.

KCAztec73

03-16-2006, 07:27 PM

5421

5422

5423

5424Hey guys,
I need some help. The boat storage that I stored my 73 Aztec in got demolished by a tornado last sunday night. I think I have a place that will do the fiberglass and gel coat repair but I"m going to need some deck hardware to replace what was damaged. I'm going to need a new windshield, grab rails on the bow and horns. Thats what I know of so far. I haven't been able to pull it out and inspect yet. That comes this weekend. I"ve included some heartbreaking pictures of my Aztec and my good friends 79 Cobalt. Any help would be greatly appreciated. You can reach me offline at jwelty@everestkc.net.

Thanks,
Jim

KCAztec73

03-16-2006, 07:31 PM

Tyson,
Call US Boat Works. They are the best in the KC area. I'm assuming your Aztec has an OMC drive? They also work on those. That's where I take my '73 Aztec when I need mechanical work done.

Ike

04-16-2006, 12:31 AM

You folks ought to get together and form an IMP Boat owners Assoc. I had a few dealings with IMP over my many years with the Coast Guard. This was a family owned business for many years, as you all know, in Iola. They had a reputation for building a good boat. Something went wrong in the late 80's, probably the economy because we were in a slight recession then, and boat sales really slumped. IMP struggled on until 1990 and filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. If anybody is interested those proceedings are probably still on file in Kansas. Any lawyers out there? Anyway they sold the company in 1991 to an outfit from Florida who kept the name but laid off a lot of people and drastically reduced production, to no avail. Within a couple of years they were gone. I've been trying to dig up some info off the Coast Guard database on boat manufacturers but it's pretty skimpy. Can't blame anyone except me, I was the one in charge of the database.

Anyway, other boat owners have done this. Banded together and formed and owners association and traded info about their boats and built up a pretty good library of information. Someone out there must have some of the old brochures and owner's manuals. You can get engine manuals off ebay. OMC as you know went belly up a couple of years back. The engine part of OMC was sold to Bombardier in Canada. They may have the old engine manuals. I'm not sure how much they archived after they bought it.

If I find out more I'll post it.

Ike

04-16-2006, 01:11 AM

There's quite a bit of info on the following link about IMP (Iola Molded Plastics) http://www.fiberglassics.com/redfish/

KCAztec73

04-23-2006, 03:05 PM

Are there any online boat salvage companies? I'm looking for deck hardware for a '73 Aztec. I need bow grab rail supports that are of the molded type not the pieced together pipe. Look at the images above and you'll see what I mean.

thanks,
Jim

Emmett

04-23-2006, 05:17 PM

Jim, I see quite a few things on Ebay that will go on the IMP boats.
I have not had mine in the water yet, I bought it last year from this guy that let it set. Needles to say, the interior has to be replaced. I am in the middle of redoing the entire boat. Can't wait to get it finished and in the water, it will make a good striper boat. I don't want to put downriggers and such on my Nitro, so this one will be perfect.
Good luck with the repairs, and sorry to hear about the damage.

Ike

04-23-2006, 10:38 PM

Having read through this thread again, I noticed some asking about plans or diagrams. To be blunt, most boat manufacturers don't have any drawings of their boats. They build from molds and templates and maybe hand drawn stuff. In 34 years I've seen maybe a dozen manufacturers who make boats under 25 feet that have blueprints. When they want to make a new design they take an old design, build a plug mold and modify it until they have what they want. or they spalsh someone elses design and modify it. (by the way that's agin federal law now) Then they make a mold from that. I've asked dozens of builders, why don't you have drawings. Their answer is ussually "Why?, I know how to build boats. What do I need drawings for?"

Anyway, your likelihood of finding drawings is nil. Manuals and old brochures are your likeliest bet. There are people who collect those. The task is to find them and get them to scan them to a PDF file. Photographs are good too. There must be proud owners out there who have lots of photos of their IMP boats.

Ike

04-24-2006, 12:06 AM

I am still looking for info. I found a few things of interest. This is from the Coast Guard database. I actually wrote the following crap so don't try to make sense of it, I'll fill in the blanks. anything in { } s is my explanation.

ISLAND MOULDED PROD IN OOB 07/20/1989. ADDRESS BOX 944 POINTEAUX PIN MI 49775. G WEIERMILLER. 11/6/2000 ASSIGNED THIS MIC TO IMP MARINE INC, IOLA KS, NOT TO BE CONFUSED WITH IMP OF BELTON MO (IMU) OR IMP OF IOLA (XMP). THIS COMPANY IS NOT ASSOCIATED WITH PRESTIGE BOATS INC (SEE IMU, SEI, IMJ AND YSO). ALL BOAT BEARING THE IMP BRAND ARE NOW MADE BY IMP IN IOLA KS. 030828 OOB {means out of business in 2003 aug 28} PER RNI.

What this all means is that after about 1993 there was a succession of owners of the IMP name, none of which were the original IMP. I have seen boats as late as 2003 bearing the IMP brand. I have been looking for anything else on the web related to IMP. Here's a couple of dealers that have older IMP boats. They also have a few newer ones which you can ignore.

This is listed on Iboats.com classified http://boats.iboats.com/imp_boats/ Some 1980's even a 72. Most have photos.

Raymonds boats in Missouri has quite a few IMP boats. Most are 1980's era. http://www.raymondsboats.com/listing_page_2.htm. There's a couple of 75's and a 67. No photo for the 67 or the 75's, the 83 does. On Iola.com it says Raymond's was an IMP dealer in the old daysvso you might find some good info there. Their main store is in Gravois Mills MO. Look on their web site for location and e-mail.

Someone sold an IMP 1982 sales brochure on EBAY on APr 6, so they are out there. Right now someone is selling a 1979 23 foot cuddy. They have 23 hours to go (its 10:00 pm PDT) and are up to $4050.00.

Emmett

04-24-2006, 03:51 AM

1969IMP, I am in the middle of building an engine cover for my 1970 Aztec. I would like to see pics of the one you built if you don't mind. And did you replace the rear seal you're self? If so, any pointers, I will be replacing mine in the next few weeks as well.
Thank you,
Emmett

1969imp

04-29-2006, 07:39 PM

hi...sorry but due to lack of money i am not going to build a full cover but i have replaced most of the back to the original way... i have some pics of that if u (or anyone else)want to see if u need any ideas..

about the transom seal.... CAREFULLLLLLL!!!!! there is a lot of stuff that can get messed up.. i had mine put in and i sat there and watched the guy install it and it was way more work than i wanted to do. is yours a stringer outdrive?

Emmett

04-29-2006, 07:58 PM

1969imp, I would like to see any pics you have. Always looking for other good ideas. My outdrive is OMC. Thanks, Emmett

1969imp

04-29-2006, 08:59 PM

i have posted some pics...here is the web site address. the two daylight pics are when i first started on the boat(not to bad considering i paid 300 for the boat with all the seats) and the night shot is the latest picture. let me know what u think..i just got done putting a nice 350 small block in it so i am waiting for lobster season to open up.
http://community.webshots.com/user/1969impboat

jesinla

04-30-2006, 12:23 AM

I just purchased a 1967 IMP Comanche. The engine needs work, but everything else is in good shape. We are replacing the dual carborators with a single carborator (replacing the intake manifold to accomplish this). I will end up with some parts. One of the carborators is fine, the other is missing a part but seems to be okay. If anyone is looking for parts let me know, they will be available in a week or so.

desotopit

05-02-2006, 08:46 PM

I am looking at an 18" IMP locally with a Merc inboard/outdrive.
The boat has 592 hours on the hour meter. The interior is original and the only "flaw" is a torn seat bottom on the driver's seat.
All wood is solid,and I can not find any soft spots in the glass.
The problems are these: the trim and tilt is not fully functional and the neighbors tell me that the main seal for the outdrive was a leak problem.
The boat is in an estate and I was asked to make an offer.
I do not know the model, but it was built in 1972. The boat is tan on top and white on the bottom. It has a solid windshield and no walkthrough to the front. There is a tiny "cuddy" cabin in the front that is large enough to hold life jackets.
Any suggestions as to a fair offer? The boat has been kept covered the entire time when it was not in the water. My main worry is $300 and up to replace the transom seal. Also, which model is this? Thanks! Jason

1969imp

05-02-2006, 09:12 PM

desotopit.. hi.. as u may know imps are worth some money.. my good friend just sold his 69 for 6500 and it needed a little paint work. but the good thing is, a lot of people dont realize there value.. i would start the offer low because you can always go up in price but you cant really work it down. if you look up in my last post you will see a link that i have with some pictures.. is this what the boat looks like? oh and about the transom seal...you can always do it yourself and it would cost about 100 dollars.. i did not do mine because i dont have the time to do something that time consuming. but like i said start the offer low..and if you have to you can work your way up.

desotopit

05-02-2006, 09:49 PM

1969,
The boats are very similar. Thanks for the link to the shots!
I could probably do the rear seal if I had a manual. I owned a 1957 Desoto for 11 years that I just sold. This should finance the boat purchase and any repairs.
I like your engine and I need to learn more about the inboards. I am a Mopar guy and I am used to playing with the old hemi engines.

1969imp

05-03-2006, 01:00 AM

thanks..
that is a nice type of car and hemis rock!!!!(but i am still a chevy guy)... do you happen to know the make and model of the outdrive? if you do i can give you some links to a few places that sell outdrive manuals. i personally like the inboard outboards a lot better.. if something breaks it is easy to fix etc etc. if you have ne more q's just let me know and i will try to help as much as i can.

desotopit

05-03-2006, 05:34 AM

Ok,
I may be showing that I always had outboards in the past (groan).
This boat has a Mercruiser outdrive. I see from many other posts in the list that OMC seems to be popular, but in this area Mercruiser parts are still very available. I did check locally and I was told that the seal was not a problem to obtain.
The former owner really loved his boat. He passed from cancer. When I took off the canvas boat cover (it was torn from the hurricanes down here),everything in the boat had another cover on it under the canvas one.
When I took off the cover on the driver's seat, there was a handwritten diagram of all added wiring, where it went and what fuse it went to on the fuse block left on the seat.
I really wanted this boat to ski my kids. I lost my oldest son to cancer over 2 years ago and needless to say our old boat was sold at that time.
My two surviving children are 13 and 10. They have not been on the water since and I wanted a tank that was large enough to hold them and any friends that they may want to take out with them!
One question if I may- Is there any way to convert 592 hours of use to milage on a car to compare engine wear?
Jason

desotopit

05-03-2006, 09:05 PM

I have more information from the boat if someone can help me figure out the model or year of the boat.
It has the 6 cylinder 165 HP Mercruiser inboard/outdrive.
The boat serial number is K11801064 and the engine serial number is 2835939. The data plate says that it holds 8 persons or 1800 lbs. and the horsepower will not exceed 225.
Can anyone identify the year or model from this information? Thanks again! Jason

1969imp

05-03-2006, 10:44 PM

one way you can convert the hours is figure the normal speed for crusing on the water is about 20-30.. now 100 hours at 30 mph should come out to around 3000 miles. that is the way i was always tought.. i am sure there are other ways but i am not aware of any other way. as far as the serial number.... i will do some looking tonight.

Ike

05-03-2006, 11:47 PM

What you listed as the boat serial number is not the Hull Identification Number. If you look on the transom of the boat from the outside standing behind the boat, in the upper right hand corner of the transom there should be a 12 digit number. If there isn't one then the boat was made before 1972 or someone ground it out. But if it has a number there it will tell me what year it was made.

fishyman13

05-04-2006, 01:16 AM

Hi, I just purchased a 1988 IMP 200 Freedom bowrider. It is really sweet with a huge sundeck covering a 5.7 Mercruiser V8 with an Alpha One outdrive. It is in very, very good original shape and I love it. IF anyone knows something about power steering, I don't think mine is working. What steps or checks can I take before calling the mechanic? Any help is appreciated. The boat has been well maintained, but this problem bugs me as I know nothing about sterndrives or power steering on a boat. Thanks in advance. Bob O

desotopit

05-04-2006, 06:09 AM

Ike,
The boat is supposed to be a 1972 model but I cant verify that until I see the title. I cant get to the title at this time because the estate adminstrator is in Il , I and the boat are in Fl, and the title is locked in the house in Fl.
I will look on the transom today while I am out there today!

desotopit

05-04-2006, 09:30 PM

I went by the boat today and there was not a number stamped into the rear or the transom.
Any further advice?

Ike

05-04-2006, 11:26 PM

Then it was built before 1972. 1972 and after builders were required to put the HIN on the transom. Of course it could be 72, some builders took their time getting in compliance. From the number you gave I suspect it is a 64. But before 72 everybody had a different format for serial numbers.

I Take no documents such as state registrations came with the boat?

desotopit

05-05-2006, 07:53 PM

There were not any numbers on the transom- pre '71 i guess!

desotopit

05-05-2006, 07:55 PM

Ike,
I have not bought it yet.
I am excited about the condition of the boat, but I am waiting for a super mechanic to check it out for me. I hope he makes it there Saturday, he lives close by.
He was going Thursday, but he is under contract to the State of Florida for the game wardens and one of those boats broke down.
I can't get to the documents yet, but I hope to have a peek at them sometime soon!
Jason

pdave1s

05-05-2006, 08:42 PM

Hi all! I just aquired a 1970 20 foot IMP Aztec, and will be doing a complete rebuild and restore on it over the course of the next year.
I plan to do this in stages, #1 will be to get it seaworthy and running, then the fun part begins.(Sanding, new gelcoat, upholstery,trailer rebuild, outdrive rebuild, engine overhaul, and detailing)
http://www.geocities.com/pdave1s1/IMG_0026.JPG
I have restored several boats in the past, and have no doubts that this one will come out real nice.
From my first inspections, the boat seems to be in pretty fair condition considering that it hasnt seen the water since 1999! It has been sitting outdoors, under a tarp during that time.
The hull is in great shape, and the interior seems to be complete,and all original except for the carpeting.
The engine is gone, but all the components to install a small block chevy 350 are there.
I am going to photo document every step of the project and create a website with a detailed naration of the process.(I will post a link soon)
Dave

desotopit

05-06-2006, 02:54 PM

If I got this to work I am attaching some photos. Can anyone tell me the model/year of this boat?Any comments as to condition? thanks! Jason

pdave1s

05-06-2006, 03:01 PM

Jason,
your boat is an IMP AZTEC, as to the year, it is somewhere around the early 70's,(70,71,72.) mine is the same model(1970) but the dash instrumentation is more centered around the stearing wheel. Check the boat registration papers, they will have the exact year.
The manuals for your outdrive and engine can be found at amazon.com.
Are you sure you have a mercruiser outrive, as IMP mainly used omc?
As to the condition of your boat, it appears to be in pretty fair shape, be sure to check all the wood components.(eg:fishing rod storage cover in the deck, and the structures around the fuel tanks, as these are the areas that seem to have the most problems in this model)
Dave

desotopit

05-06-2006, 03:28 PM

Hi Dave,
I cant get to the papers yet- it is an estate boat.
I am trying to add a few more photos.

desotopit

05-06-2006, 10:39 PM

Ttying a few shots- I am having trouble getting them all to upload at once!

desotopit

05-06-2006, 10:44 PM

another try

Ike

05-07-2006, 12:17 AM

In the engine room is a red label behind the blower. The photo is blurry so I can't read it. That's the capacity label put there by the builder. Sometimes they put the model and year on them, sometimes not. It's a pre 1972 label.

pdave1s

05-07-2006, 11:35 AM

The pre 72's didnt list the year on the capacity label. As an estate sale item, the paperwork should be available for examination prior to the actual sale. As to putting a value on the boat, it is a matter of what it is worth to you, how much you need to put into it to get it running... MY guess would be in the neighborhood of $1500 or so.
The one I just got, needs a motor, transom seal, and waterpump impeller just to get it in the water, but I got it for doing a couple of days worth of yard work, making it worth putting some money into it.
Dave

pdave1s

05-07-2006, 08:43 PM

I was wondering if any of the IMP owners here would be interested in forming an owners club? I have recently obtained a 1970 IMP AZTEC 20' that I am going to be doing a full restore on, and am planning on photo documenting the entire process. The project will be posted on http:www.impboatclub.com starting in about a week. I am estimating memberhip fees at around $4.00 a month, maybe less, depending on the number of interested people. If there is enough interest, to help support the cost of running a website(I have already purchased the domain, and obtained hosting services for the first month.) devoted to IMP, we could have a support library to upload and download files, documentation, ideas, share resources, .pdf files, classified ads, and maybe even have club gatherings around the country... could be fun, what say?
Dave

pdave1s

05-09-2006, 09:18 PM

Just a few photos of some of the surprises that can be had when rebuilding an OMC outdrive
http://www.geocities.com/pdave1s1/IMG_0049.JPG
notice the wear on the ball gears on the upper haousing
http://www.geocities.com/pdave1s1/IMG_0053.JPG
and the intermediat housing. If these can be found a a marine store, i am looking at about $800 in parts and seals
http://www.geocities.com/pdave1s1/IMG_0058.JPG
If you are not going to re-assemble something within a few hours, a little labeling and organization can be a lifesaver!
just a hint of some of the photos that will be posted on http://www.impboatclub.com in the next few days
Dave

Ike

05-09-2006, 10:12 PM

I used to have a friend who owned a Marine repair shop. He was doing very well and I asked him what was the secret to his success. He said sterndrives. He said that 75% of the repairs they did were on sterndrives, and that he made a good profit on it.

From your photos above, I believe it!

jonnybronco

05-11-2006, 06:52 PM

Do you still have your IMP Mercruiser 260 HP? I have a 1978 IMP Mercruiser 260 HP (I think). Have you figured out how to get a manual? I'm interested in selling mine...it doesn't get enough use but runs well. I don't know what model mine is however. I'm not really sure what make/model to advertise.:confused:

Vgable

05-11-2006, 10:02 PM

Anyone interested in a black and teal 89 Elagaza 255 new interior fresh motor nice trailer v.gable@verizon.net

nevadamike

05-12-2006, 12:05 PM

Dave,
The imp site idea is a good one. Count me in. Please send requirements for membership when ready. Your imp looks as though it's coming along. Mine is an Inca, and I am currently repowering with a 454 g.m.. New seats, trim, engine cover, soft top and tower. Would love to trailer to club activities. Been a cold winter, so my project is behind schedule. Hope to go to trials this spring. Have to get the thing dry-docked, though, so i can restore the trailer .
Anyway, keep us posted. Mike, master and commander, BATTLEAXE.

pdave1s

05-13-2006, 06:13 PM

I have a complete original interior for the Aztec (for patterns) that I am restoring, and am going to be making new wood Parts to replace the rotten, and dried out wood. I have a complete wood shop available to work with, and am considering making a limited production run of the following parts to order for any one interested.
Seat pedestals, with seat backs and bottoms fore and aft facing back to back with storage and new hinges, center floor panel with hinges, bait well, and gas tank covers with hinges, and bow locker doors.( all pieces will be bare wood, ready to water seal with paint or varnish and ready to upholster)All plywood will be 3/4" marine grade.
It is as easy for me to make one set of these as it is to make 50, the more interest I can get, the cheaper I can make them!
Anyone interested should E:mail me at pdave1s@hotmail.com with their phone number to discuss pricing, and what parts they need. I will be making these parts in @ 3 weeks.
I can also make custom parts for other models if you have a pattern, or photo's and measurements

Dave

pdave1s

05-13-2006, 06:26 PM

There has been some talk about people having a water build up around the fuel tanks inth IMP INCA models. Here is a simple solution that works to make keeping this area dry.
Buy a couple of spare stern drain plugs at your local boat store, along with the though hull fittings that they mount in, bore two holes between the engine compartment and the problem area, mount the through hull fittings in these holes, insert the plugs from the engine compartment side, and just remember after a days running, to pull these plugs and let the compartments drain into the bilge area, to then run out the stern drain. put the plugs back while running, to avoid fuel contamination to the bilges

Dave

pdave1s

05-13-2006, 06:31 PM

:cool: The IMP Boat Club Website is starting to take shape, and will be available later this week, thanks everyone for your interst, and will keep posted as to when it will be funtional.

UPDATE: Had a minor computer crash this week, that slowed the website down by a few days while waiting for computer parts to be shipped. I am working on the site over the next few days and can say that it is coming along nicely
Dave

colinv

05-17-2006, 03:07 PM

I would be interested in the boat club, I have a 1968 Comanche that I am in process of redoing.

pdave1s

05-20-2006, 03:16 AM

The first parts of www.impboatclub.com are now online and operational
There is a good photo description of changing a leaking transom seal already posted
Dave

pdave1s

05-20-2006, 03:25 AM

Wanted
pictures of imp boats in action, and under construction or restoration for use at the impboatclub.com wesite
email me at pdave1s@hotmail.com
who knows your boat could end of on the main welcome page

rob$dog

05-21-2006, 09:24 PM

just wondering ???? iI have a chance to buy a 1967 navajo v IMP that is perfict except the seats all wood & equip is all there & no dammage to hull or trailer I can pick up for $400.00 need imput thx.

pdave1s

05-22-2006, 02:34 PM

From what I can see from the photo's, it looks like its in pretty fair shape. The decision to buy or not to buy is a matter of what your willing to put into the boat. IMP boats are a solid good riding boat, and at that price, its worth fixing it up(If it were here in northern california I would snap it up in a heartbeat, to either fix up, or strip for parts for my IMP Aztec)
Dave

desotopit

05-23-2006, 07:02 AM

Hello List!
My boat mechanic finally had a chance to go check out the Aztec. He says that it is in perfect shape!
I will be making an offer soon! Jason

pdave1s

05-26-2006, 08:34 PM

:cool: Good Luck desotopit, i hope you get it!!! :cool:

desotopit

05-27-2006, 07:13 AM

I talked to the estate administrator yesterday.
I made an offer that was a little low because I have not yet heard the engine running. The key is locked in the house and the administrator is in another state.
They are hoping for more money on the boat, but I cant go any higher unless I hear the engine. My mechanic says that i need about $300.00 to replace the water pump impellor, the solenoid on the trim ( it was sticking when you tried to tilt back up ) and a new battery. I made my offer less these items, but I cant risk any more money out if the engine has a problem.
I did get the HIN from the title while I was on the phone. It is not stamped in the transom. The number is KJI 801064 and the title is states that it is a 1971. Jason

pdave1s

05-28-2006, 01:27 AM

Jason,
you may be able to save a bit of $$ by doing the work yourself, the manuals for your outdrive can be had at amazon.com (i got the ones for my omc 1964-1986 as a pair for $65 with shipping to calif.)
I will be doing an impeller replacement on a 1970 omc electric shift oudrive in about 2 weeks, and posting a step by step photo series on http://impboatclub.com . The theory is the same for mercruiser, and with the manuals at hand it isnt that hard to do.

pdave1s

05-28-2006, 01:38 AM

Jason,
You may be able to save a bit of $$ by doing the work yourself, the manuals for your outdrive can be had at amazon.com (i got the ones for my omc 1964-1986 as a pair for $65 with shipping to calif.)
I will be doing an impeller replacement on a 1970 omc electric shift oudrive in about 2 weeks, and posting a step by step photo series on http://impboatclub.com .(Already posted is a photo series showing the replacement of a transom boot)
The theory is the same for mercruiser, and with the manuals at hand it isnt that hard to do.
I will also be posting a photo series on converting a chevy 350 car engine to marine use, describing in detail the steps that need to be done to make this engine live under the heavier stresses a marine engine is subjected to(I have many years of machine shop experience, and have built more engines, marine, and auto, than I care to remember)I will detaill the main differences in an auto and a marine engine, and what parts need to be replaced with their marine counterparts(carb, starter, alternator, cam,freeze plugs and Bearings) along with adding water drain valves to the block

Emmett

05-28-2006, 03:59 PM

Robsdog, That seems like a pretty good deal for that rig. I paid $600.00 for mine, and it was in much worse shape then that one is. I am in the middle of rebuilding my 1970 Aztec.
That is a great idea about the IMP web site. I am going to give it a look, sounds like a great idea.
Thanks,
Emmett

desotopit

05-28-2006, 04:28 PM

I got the key to the Aztec, towed it the two blocks over to the boat ramp and it would not start!!

There is no gas at all at the carb and the hoses are too brittle to try to disconnect and check for gas flow on either side of the pump. I have not bought the boat yet!

It would fire over with ether but then it would quit. I took it back and told the "middleman" (woman) that I would call the estate administrator again.

The cap and rotor had carbon but I cleaned that out-the points were OK.

I did go show my daughter the #2 boat choice while we were out that way. It is a 1994 Renken with an 85 Evinrude.....

pdave1s

05-28-2006, 05:14 PM

Try priming the carb with a little bit of gas, then firing it over, make sure to replace the aircleaner/spark arrestor before cranking. If it starts, runs for a few seconds, then quits, you know that either the pump is bad, or the line between the tank and the pump has a crack in it and is sucking air, or the float needle is stuck in the carb from sitting
The fact that it runs on ether tells you that there is nothing major wrong with the engine, or the ignition system. The fuel pump, and or fuel lines are not considered a major repair that would stop me from buying the boat.
as for boat choice #2 you wont get near the ride, or the smooth wake for skiing that you will with the IMP, It makes a great tow boat

Dave

desotopit

05-29-2006, 07:58 PM

Ok,

I bought the Aztec today!

When I got it home. I ran down the fuel problem. I have gas at the carb connection but none going through the carb. The engine will crank on cleaner or ether but will not run on its own. I highly suspect a stuck needle valve.

I did spray cleaner into the bowl hoping to loosen it but that did not work. I am not used to Rochester carbs, I am used to Carters. If it was a Carter I would knock it with a 2X4 and it would loosen up....

I do have a good Chevy shop nearby. I hope to get it there by Thursday-and perhaps on the lake by Saturday.

The interesting item is that the Mercruiser is original. The owner left the papers in the glove box with all maintenenace records back to day one. That was a wonderful find! Even the original manual for the engine was in there.

Another interesting find was that the fuel hose from the pump to the carb in not a standard line- it is a hydraulic hose. Is this normal?
Jason

ScreeminChikin

06-08-2006, 10:12 AM

Just wanted to pop in and say howdy. New guy around here and proud new owner of a 74 Aztec. Got it in the water for the first time this last weekend and I'm in love with this boat already. Ran into a problem with the tilt motor and clutch that is turning a little expensive but for what I paid for the boat I guess I cant complain.

@desotopit:
Mind if I ask what you ended up giving for that boat? Looks like it is in pretty nice shape. I'm just curious what these old boats are worth.

desotopit

06-10-2006, 09:51 PM

7444

7445

7446

74477444

7445Our 1971 Aztec went for a ride today here in Florida.

It was my daughter's birthday and we were able to spend the afternoon on the lake.
The boat rides super. It goes through rough water that would soak you in a newer boat and we were dry.It felt great to have an "oldie" like this running the lake again!

Emmett

06-10-2006, 11:12 PM

Boat looks great. I looks like ya'll had a good time on the water.
I would like to see better pics of the boat, inside and out. I am redoing my 20ft. IMP. I am going to make it more of a fishing boat, a striper boat.
I have a 1996 Nitro Fish and Ski for bass and crappie fishing. This one will be for the larger lakes.
It is getting closer and closer to being done. Just have to work very slow, cause of my back problem. But, I think it will turn out pretty good.

pdave1s

06-13-2006, 01:32 AM

I Bet it felt great to get back out on the water, and on your daughters birthday no less, that makes it even better

Dave
aka
impboatc
http://impboatclub.com

1969imp

06-13-2006, 10:51 PM

here is a link that has a few pics of a very nice imp that someone is selling.. nice boat!!!!

http://www.sdboats.com/boats4sale/images/johnk.htm

bill4tuna

06-19-2006, 11:44 PM

hello out there. Looking for a original SS swim step ladder for 1978 20" imp aztec. all referrals or resources appreciated.

Lucian_fegley

06-20-2006, 04:21 PM

I just bought a 1974 IMP 25 1/2 ft boat with twin inboard Ford V-8's
I am looking for any information on this boat. All I know is the outdrive are called the 888's with a 1.5 gear ratio. It has a cuddy cabin with a port-a-pottie. Please any information would be helpful.

67NAVAJO

06-20-2006, 07:03 PM

Hello, We are in the process of trying to restore a 67 IMP Navajo V, anyone know where we can find pictures to see what it might have looked like new?
Thanks for any help

Emmett

06-21-2006, 10:30 AM

I found pics on the web, by doing a search for IMP Boats, and emailing the people that are selling one like I have. A couple sent me some good pics of the 20" Aztec that I am working on.
Good luck,
Emmett

pdave1s

06-21-2006, 06:48 PM

There are some pics of a 1970, 20' imp aztec at http://impboatclub.com
I am restoring/updating this boat, and photo documenting the entire process, and have started a site just for imp owners to contribute to, and find resources on
Dave aka
impboatc@impboatclub.com

pdave1s

06-21-2006, 08:04 PM

try this site, they have numerous IMP parts, and boats, and may have the ladder your looking for. if you need a photo of the right one, I have the original for my '70 20' aztec
http://www.raymondsboats.com

Dave

bill4tuna

06-23-2006, 11:02 PM

Thank you. I contacted raymond boats and they state a possibility exist that they have the ladder in their pool. Will keep you informed of my progress.
Bill

pdave1s

06-24-2006, 12:28 AM

Good luck Bill.
btw have you seen the IMP BOAT CLUB website? Not much now, but growing fast.
http://impboatclub.com

Dave aka
impboatc@impboatclub.com

desotopit

06-24-2006, 08:44 PM

7791I think that he likes the boat!

desotopit

06-24-2006, 08:47 PM

7792This is the real boss of the boat- he keeps us in line!

bill4tuna

06-25-2006, 05:39 PM

Has anyone had success mounting a auxiliary kicker (91/2hp) bracket on the
transom of the 1978 IMP aztec. The transom angles in so there is not a flat surface to mount a traditional bracket. Has anyone modified a bracket deisgn that I can copy. I have always depended on a "kicker" and have been saved many times because of it. However, the transom of my 1978 20' Imp aztec does not appear to have enough "meat" to handle a kicker without some modification. I have owned the boat for a year and I love it. I get a lot of looks from envious fishermen. Also, my boat does list to the right I brought trim tabs but have not installed them yet.
Bill

pdave1s

06-27-2006, 12:09 AM

the transom on your boat is 2 5/8" thick marine grade ply,with glass on both sides,depends on what you call a "kicker" but im sure it would hold a 15 -20 hp

Dave
impboatc@impboatclub.com

bill4tuna

06-27-2006, 12:43 AM

the kicker is a 9.9 4 stroke honda long shaft. It is the angle of the transom that has me concerned. It is good to know that the transom is thick enough to handle this motor.
Thanks
Bill

pdave1s

06-27-2006, 08:44 PM

You can use a couple of wedges, made from a good hardwood, to compensate for the angle of the transom. there are also many different adjustable outboard trolling motor brackets available, that could compensate for the angle.
Me I would use a standard bracket, tillted back to the right angle by oak wedges, through bolted to the transom. I would make the holes in the wedges on the tight side, and coat the wedges in epoxy resin when installed.
good luck with your project
Dave

bill4tuna

06-27-2006, 09:06 PM

Thanks, Good advise and I will do exactly as you suggest.

bill

bill4tuna

06-30-2006, 09:21 PM

Is there anyone out there who can help me find a transom platform for a 1978 20' aztec imp. Were there any original platforms for this model? I am thinking of installing a platform and then mounting a kicker on the platform. Would solve two problems for me.i.e., swim, bait tank, aux motor, and boarding spot.

pdave1s

06-30-2006, 11:02 PM

I have one that may work,I was going to use it on my AZTEC, but I also have the original ladder, and dont need both. Send me your e-mail address, ill send you pics

Dave
impboatc@impboatclub.com
http://impboatclub.com

bill4tuna

07-01-2006, 06:55 PM

Great!
my email address is: wblyles@yahoo.com

khschmitt

07-02-2006, 01:32 AM

Hey guys... Momma says it needs to go.

Sky

07-04-2006, 01:45 AM

Hey guys. I figured out how to take the top off my 24ft inca and have no use for it. I am in So cal so if anybody wants or needs a hard top for thier boat I have one avail. All you need to do is pick it up FREE. Taking this thing off opened up a ton of fishing room for me.
I see that this message is more than a year old, so I am sure you have already disposed of the top, but if you still have it, I will come and get it, just let me know at my personal e-mail, skyrider0@yahoo.com in case I don't see it here.

Sky

07-04-2006, 01:49 AM

sorry if a missed this part in the story, but how would i get ahold of imp for a hull diagram of my boat. i have water coming from somewhere and dont understand the layout below the deck i stand on............imp phone fax or email would be great, or snail mail address for letter contact....thanks

jv hendrickson
I also have a 1984 27' IMP and I need a hull design diagram to make revisions and repairs. I am more easily reached at skyrider0@yahoo.com, but since I have found this, I will try to come back here often too.

Sky

07-04-2006, 02:06 AM

I'm new to this forum, and I have a 1984 27' IMP. Right now, it only sleeps two, but I would like to install an aft cabin for two more, and somehow get rid og the huge engine cover for more deck space. I have no manuals, and I don't know where anything below decks is...tanks, lines, electrical, and so on. If anyone can help me find information like that, please e-mail me at skyrider0@yahoo.com
Thanks...
Sky

WhatwasIthinkin

07-04-2006, 05:11 PM

I just purchased a 1980 26' IMP and am struggling with some engine and gas-line "issues." Does anyone know if the tanks are fiberglass? Don't want to be putting E85 fuel--the only thing they sell now in Boston Harbor--into 'glass tanks. Not sure I want to put that stuff into any other kind of tank, either. My "neighbors" are all complaining about E85 clogging their filters.

Thanks for any suggestions or help!

WhatwasIthinkin!

IMP1990

07-05-2006, 07:27 PM

I own a 1990 IMP 320 Express Cruiser I'm having water leaking into my aft cabin. I found rotten wood around the starboard fuel tank. I could not fig. out how to move the tank it would not budge so i replaced the wood and fiberglass the wood to the boat. I also replaced the wood in the aft cabin that was rotten. I'm still having water into my aft cabin from where the fuel tank is any sugg. I really like the boat but if cant get this water leak fixed im going to sell boat THANKS

KCAztec73

07-13-2006, 08:26 PM

Hello IMPer's,
I'm reposting this because I'm still looking for parts. If anyone knows where I can go to find parts for a 73 Aztec I would really appreciate it. I'm looking for a complete windshield preferably with the glass, the bow rail supports (stanchions) of the cast metal variety not the tubing kind. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Jim

bill4tuna

07-17-2006, 11:10 PM

Well, I'm sad because I purchased a kicker bracket for my 9.9 honda 4 stroke to be mounted on the transom of my 20' 1978 imp aztec. The angle of the transom and the upward part of the transom is very thin. The lower part of the transom is 2 1/2 inches thick and would hold the bracket but the bracket would require a 6 or 8 inch setback off the transom to mount the bracket and the bracket would be too low to be useful. So now I have to surrender my need for emergency power on the Big Pacfic Ocean. I have always had a kicker and feel unsafe without one. Does anyone out there have any suggestions to get me out of this quandry. I have attached a picture of the transomC\Documents and Settings\william lyles/My Documents\100_4203.jpg

pdave1s

07-17-2006, 11:28 PM

From inside of the boat, where you wish to mount the kicker bracket, fashion a panel of 2 layers of 1 1/4 plywood, about 30" across, and about 12 to 18 inches high,(sand the existing glass with 80 grit sandpaper to give the new glass a little "tooth " to grip)
layer a piece of fiber glass cloth (24 oz) in between the existing transom glass, and the ply, and again between the two layers of ply, with a final layer of glass to cover the whole works. use epoxy resin, and be sure to wet out the glass cloth thouroghly. This will spread the load sufficiently to support the kicker and bracket
If you do the work yourself, the whole job should only run in the neighborhood of 60 to 100 bucks, and you will increase the strength of your transom in the process(you could even make the patch panel the full width of the transom for even more strength)

Dave
impboatc@impboatclub.com
http://impboatclub.com

bill4tuna

07-18-2006, 10:35 PM

sounds like a good plan.I will draw it out and if I find it too difficult for my level I will have it done professionally because I really do trust a "kicker"
Thanks,
Bill

bill4tuna

07-19-2006, 01:57 PM

I visited two boatyards and neither wanted to mount an extension beyond a few inches for the bracket which would hold the 9.9 hp honda. They say the 4 stroke weight with a possible 6 to 8 inch extension would put too much stress on the transom even if reinforced from the inside as you suggest. One dealer suggested a very high thrust electric trolling motor for emergency use. He also suggested a small 2 stroke for a lighter weight on an extended bracket. Neighter would work in this ocean. The minimum hp that makes sense is 9.9. I haven't given up. I need emergency backup for Mr. Pacific.
bill4tuna

donztheman02

07-23-2006, 02:31 PM

hi, well it looks like i have joined the ranks of those that proudly own an imp boat..I have been given a 1974 Aztec 23' sliding frnt hatch,softtop(i think) boat with a 225 omc outdrive power plant..this boat was being used as recently as 2 yrs ago and came sitting on a roadmaster trailer.as expected i am very pleased with this boat as the price was right..($0.00) lol..the boat seems to be in excellant condition with only 1 very small tear in the upolstery..but there is a small issue as to where the engine vent hose are supposed to be mounted..If anyone of you fine gentlemen happen to know where i can obtain some information about this vessel i would appreciate anything i can get my hands on..and if i come across any usefull info i will be more than happy to post it in here..thx guys..

mike7335

07-25-2006, 03:19 PM

How strange to find this site. I worked for IMP for about 6 years before taking a job building boats in South Carolina. I read the story about Jack Stewart in the Iola Register. Jack ran the parts bin when I worked there, he is a great guy. I was the plant manager for a while before working with one of the best tooling guys in the business at IMP. I see there are a bunch of questions concerning the hull layouts, bulkheads and stringer design. We did not have many blueprints or typical design layouts just hard patterns and memory. All IMP's were built with wood stringers glassed to the hull. After glassing we would drill drains in the traverse bulkheads for drainage. Sometimes grindings and trash would collect and plug the holes. The only access would be to cut holes in the floor and clean. On the 22' walk around fish boats we would use platic tanks otherwise all tanks were aluminum. in fact we used to make our tanks in-house. I would be happy to help out answering a many questions as I can. I own a 31 and a 22 fish IMP

76aztec

07-25-2006, 10:41 PM

I'm having engine trouble and am in the process of narrowing it down. I had the boat out a couple of weekends ago and was running around the lake when the engine just sputtered and died. I have gas injecting into the carb but don't seem to get a spark from the coil. I do have 12v on the BAT terminal of the coil. I'm currently in the process of locating a replacement ignition coil but with no manual any advice would be appreciated. I'm also waiting for a SELOC manual to arrive and hope it helps.

Karl

mike7335

07-26-2006, 08:36 AM

If you have power to the coil and still no fire you probably have an open somewhere . Start with the idle interupters located on the gimble housing ( area above the boot on the transom). Sometimes the switches will get out of adjustmentt and stay open causing the engine to stumble. Another culprit is the condenser on the side of the coil. These are cheap to replace compared to the coil

mike7335

07-26-2006, 09:17 AM

mike7335

07-26-2006, 03:16 PM

I also have a 1984 27' IMP and I need a hull design diagram to make revisions and repairs. I am more easily reached at skyrider0@yahoo.com, but since I have found this, I will try to come back here often too.. The 27' has a cockpit liner in it. The aft deck and motor cover was built from 1 mold. It stops right at the entry to the forward berth. There should be a bilge pump and float switch in the pan under the aft berth cushion. We had guys drill right through the bottom when they mounted that switch so check that out for a leak. There is no getting that liner out. It is mudded into the side walls and sucked down.

76aztec

07-26-2006, 08:32 PM

Mike, thanks for the information. My condensor is inside the distributer and I was planning to replace it also along with a new dist cap, points, and rotor. I will try to find switches you are talking about and check them. I have been working late and by the time I get dinner it's to dark to work on the boat.

Just for reference this is a 1976 Ford 351 engine which is labled as 235hp OMC stern drive.

pdave1s

07-27-2006, 12:20 AM

Welcome,
Everyone here has been hoping someone with some information on IMP would show up!

There is also a website at http://impboatclub.com That recently started, and has a growing community of IMP fans

Dave
impboatc@impboatclub.com
http://impboatclub.com

mike7335

07-27-2006, 08:37 AM

Thanks for the welcome. 76 Aztec, that motor and drive is what is known a stringer mount. If you look at the mounting feet they are set on the lateral stringers and the drive goes through a rubber boot. Keep an eye on the mounting lag bolts for they have a habit of rotting out and the the motor starts walking. My suggestion if some have started this would be to get a resin/fiberglass repair kit from an auto parts store , mix up some resin, pull the bolt , coat it and the hole and re-install. Remember on the engine thing , you only need 3 things to fire 1. compression, 2 fuel and oxygen3. fire/ spark. look at your problem in the most simplistic fashion. remember, these motors were build when a guy could actually work on them.

76aztec

07-27-2006, 10:56 PM

Mike, thanks again for the info. I know engines back then were just simple and fairly straight forward. I just received a book today published by Clymer on OMC stern drives 1964 to 1986. It has some great information about the engine, upper and lower cases. I purchased new points, condensor, and dist cap and will start replacing parts until it figure this out. I found the switches you were talking about and will check those this weekend.

tactmed223

07-30-2006, 12:51 AM

Greeting everyone I have been quitly reading the messages sent to one another asking for owner manuals. I have recently purchsed a 1989 IMP 220, I was fotunate the oner still had all the paperwork for the boat. If anyone needs a copy of my owners manual please respond

76aztec

08-10-2006, 11:03 PM

Okay, I still have engine issues. It cranks but there is no spark. I tried pulling the high voltage wire to the center of the distributor cap and holding it 1/4" from ground and crank the engine. There is no spark! According to the OMC Stern Drive shop manual (page 38) under testing the ignition system, if I have voltage on the negative terminal with no wires connnected to it and the points open all the way I have a shorted distributor. This is the status I have currently. Sorry but I just don't understand that. If the coil only has the BAT terminal connected and the high voltage wire to the center of the distributor then how can there be a shorted distributor??? :?: The two wires that connect to the NEG terminal are the wire that goes to the condensor and another wire to the TACH. Tomorrow I hope to get NAPA to test the coil for me. Any advice would really be appreciated at this point.

Thanks,

mike7335

08-11-2006, 04:14 PM

Karl,

Okay let go back to the basics. Put all wires back where they belong. Run a wire from the positive post on the battery to the positive terminal on the coil. This bypasses the key switch. Crank the motor and check for fire on the coil tower by simply holding the coil wire out a 1/4 inch or so. Do not use a ground use the coil. The OMC manual is somewhat confusing. Did you replace the condenser? If so make sure the connection is good on the termination and not touching the distributer base. Key switches go bad too. Let me knowif you have fire, if not we'll go to step 2

76aztec

08-11-2006, 10:36 PM

Mike,

Thanks agin for the information. I when down to NAPA today and they ohmed the coil for me and determined the coil is bad. I got a new one and installed it and BANG we have ignition. The boat started and ran great for about 5-10 minutes. Enough to ge the engine temp up to 200 degrees. At which point it studderd to a stop. This time I have spark but no gas in the carb float tank. Checked the filter before the pump and it is empty. After thinking about this I figured the boat is tilted about 10-15 deg toward the bow and the tank only has about 10-15 gallons in it out of 45 capacity. This tilt is due to a sloping driveway and the tongue was lowered to about 1 foot off the ground. Rasied the tongue and started to crank until it started to rain. Now it is a tomorrow project.

Just for anyone elses information, if you ohm between the - and + post on a coil it should read 1.5 to 1.8 ohms on the older oil filled coils. If you ohm between either post and the high voltage connector in either polarity direction yoiu should read 5000 - 7000 ohms. Mine read 13000 ohms between the - post and the center tap of the coil.

Do you know what shape the tank is these boats? Is it long and narrow or short and wide?

Thanks,

mike7335

08-14-2006, 08:56 AM

Lucian_fegley

08-14-2006, 12:28 PM

I have a 1974 IMP 25.5' Twin inboards with 888's. It has a Cuddy cabin and a small port a potty. Can someone please point me in the right direction for what the model name is and were I can find oe parts for it I want to restor the boat but have run into nothing but dead ends.

76aztec

08-14-2006, 12:37 PM

Mike, you bet it was music to my ears to hear that motor start and run! :D Even after I tilted the boat back toward the transom instead of the bow and it restarted I was excited. I checked the pump flow rate and it is just about what the SELOC manuals says it suppose to be. I was concerned about the tanks becuase to get to them I have to pull all the carpet out of the boat.

While I had it running I connect a water hose to the stern drive and ran the motor to test the thermostat and it stays constant about 190 degrees (the guage has 150 mark & a 240 mark with a mark halfway between them, I'm guessing 190).

Just on another note I went to Crowley Marine in Denver and it is a little shop. Everything is shipped from a warehouse in California and if it is not there they search other boat warehouses for it.

Thanks again for the information, you have a geat knowledge about these boats and glad you joined the forums!!

76aztec

08-14-2006, 12:44 PM

Lucian_fegley, I have a 1974 sales brochure but none of the boats in it are 25.5'. The closest is a X-246 at 24.5' and could be equiped with twin motors and a cuddy cabin. Look at the pictures I have posted at http://impboatclub.com/mybb/showthread.php?tid=55 it would be in the first couple of images. Hope those pictures help you narrow down your boat model.

There could be another brochure that covers larger boats that someone else has.

mike7335

08-14-2006, 01:04 PM

Lucian,

That would be a 255 in current terminolgy. We made that boat for alot of years. I can scrounge through some brochures that I have, but it's a 255. You can get on the internet and goggle it or you can contact Raymonds at lake of the Ozarks Missouri. The interiors change from year to year but the hull and deck are the same. If anyone has brochures from say 85-1990 that me driving the 255 and the 270. I have aged since then however.

Lucian_fegley

08-14-2006, 01:10 PM

It looks close but the boat is 25.5' long but every thing else looks the same

mike7335

08-14-2006, 01:18 PM

Hence the name 255, and I might add that is a true 25'5" without bow pulpit or molded swim platform. Overall length (OAL) is measured at the shear line of the mold. In order to make boats londger OEM's used to and still do mold in bow pulpits, or swim plartforms thus making a 24' boat now 26' justifying a higher price with the same usable space as a 24'.

Lucian_fegley

08-14-2006, 01:22 PM

I know the twin motors are the old 888's ford 302's and the stern drive lower units are 1.5 gear ratio but I am having trouble locating the right ones. I need to replace both motors and both lowers. Does anyone know were I can get them for a reasonable price? The previous owner decided to slap in bigger motors and lower units. I test fitted a mock up motor and it alligns perfectly. The previous owner told me he just made custom motormounts to get the motors to fit and rebuilt the lowers to handle the power. Just trying to get this one restored. Also need interior parts and panneling.

Lucian_fegley

08-14-2006, 01:25 PM

There are no swim decks or any other extras on the exterior it is all hull

Lucian_fegley

08-14-2006, 01:54 PM

it looks just like the x246 but did they come with the twin v-8's

76aztec

08-14-2006, 02:04 PM

Lucian,

According to my borchure they could be equiped with two 165-300 hp engines. My IMP has a 235hp which is a Ford 351 V8. I would go with Mike and that it is a 255. It makes sense because the X245 is 24.5 feet long. If yours is 25.5 feet I would suspect it as a 255.

Lucian_fegley

08-14-2006, 02:06 PM

OK thanks, any ideas were I could find parts for restoration

M.J.B.

08-24-2006, 12:39 PM

Hi

I am the original owner of 1989 IMP 235 Europa. I run it on Lake Michigan out of Chicago and Lake Geneva in Wisconsin. Great running boat and solid as a rock. I am running the original 350 Mag engine with Mercury Alpha Drive. Outdrive been rebuild twice due to hitting underwater objects. Have all original literature that was published at the time.

Mike

Sky

08-28-2006, 12:08 AM

My 27' IMP has a 305 volvo Penta I/O, and I can only start my boat with a manual switch that bypasses the solenoid. I took the starter off and had it tested and they said both the starter and the solenoid are good. What could the problem be? Also, it idles at 1000 rpm. When I try to reduce the idle, it shuts off. Any ideas?

Billwidrig

09-01-2006, 05:50 PM

Hello everyone. I just joined and have a 1969 17' IMP NAVAJO V boat. I joined to find out if anyone knows where I can find a new winshield. The original one is plexiglass and is cracked and scratched. Thanks for the help.
Bill

Sky

09-04-2006, 01:52 PM

I just had a p[rop strike an dI need a replacement...but I haven't taken the old one off. I wondered if anyone has ideas of the cheapest way to replace it, and what I should ask for? My boat is a 27.5 foot IMP with a 305 engine, and a 280 outdrive. I hope I said all of that correctly. I UNDErstand there are right turning and left turning props, as well as the pitch, and I don't know how to determine those factors. is there a recommended set of numbers I should look for?

76aztec

09-04-2006, 10:45 PM

Karl,

I bet you had a big grin when you heard her fire. The tanks were rectangular. You should check where the fuel line goes into the tank. Unscrew the 90 that has the fuel feed hose on it. Right below that (in the tank) you will find a thimble size screen. These screens get clogged so clean it out. Screwed in the 90 is a back flow device to stop fuel from siphoning out if you have a leak. It is a spring loaded ball and if the fuel pump gets weak it will not open all the way. Try getting a brass fitting and run the boat without the check valve and see what happens. In any event clean the sock filter.

Mike, you mention this filter and I was wondering if you could give me a little more detail on it. I had the boat out this weekend and it died again. I hate being towed in. :mad: This time though the fuel filter canister is almost dry. The gauge shows 3/4 full and I had just put 10 gallons in to add to the 15 I had put in last time it died. I can see where the gas line goes into the fiberglass wall at the front of the bilge but can't see into that area. The carpet is glued down in that area so this is going to be a real chore.

I was also wondering if it is possible to put an electric pump and bypass the pump on the engine. This would also allow me to pump the tank out at the end of the season.

Any help would be great!!