18ft nereus Restoring

Discussion in 'Fiberglass and Composite Boat Building' started by Josh87, Feb 19, 2014.

  1. Josh87
    Joined: Feb 2014
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    Location: Eyre Peninsula

    Josh87 New Member

    hey guys new to the forums got a few questions for you.
    i have recenlty got a 18ft nereus thats in bad shape and looking to restore her (ive never restored a boat before) what are some main things to look for first??
    with the whole fiberglassing and gelcoating thing the glass looks in ok condition not 100% but ok! can i put a gelcoat over it and that will be ok??

    cheers heaps Josh
     
  2. Mr Efficiency
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    Mr Efficiency Senior Member

    You need to investigate the condition of the internal timberwork, especially the transom. These parts are integral part to the boat's structure, and when the rot sets in, literally, the hull can fail. The actual glass and gelcoat stands the ravages of time better than the timber, as a rule. Depending on what you find in there, you may have a big job on your hands. And it isn't really a job for inexperienced people, unless you are a bit "handy" and prepared to follow proper procedures. Unless your boat is a "classic" hull, it isn't always worth the trouble.
     
  3. Josh87
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    Josh87 New Member

    thanks heaps mate, ill have a bit more of a look around internaly to assess the damage hopefully fingers crossed its not that bad! theres nothing else to keep an eye out for?
    cheers
     
  4. Mr Efficiency
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    Mr Efficiency Senior Member

    I'd be inclined to take out any internal fuel tanks for inspection, they are known to pit and corrode over time in most old boats. That will also give you an opportunity to see how the internal framing is, poke around with a screw driver for soft spots in the stringers and bulkheads around the fuel tank space.
     
  5. Mr Efficiency
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    Mr Efficiency Senior Member

    You could probably find someone to restore it professionally, but it does not make economic sense unless you have a hull that stands above its peers, performance, and re-sale wise. Something like a Haines V17L, e.g.
     
  6. Josh87
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    Josh87 New Member

    ok no dramas its an inboard with a holden 202 in it.
    any sugestions on a diesel motor that could go in??
    its a 1980's model not 100% sure but going by pictures n talking to people that know the boat.
    these boats have a strong hull and good in the water
    cheers
     

  7. Mr Efficiency
    Joined: Oct 2010
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    Mr Efficiency Senior Member

    As a rule of thumb, diesel propulsion in an 18 foot planing hull is not practicable, you have too much weight for too little power, were it otherwise you'd have seen them around, but you don't. The diesel power plant is just too big a percentage of the total weight for a boat this size.
     
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