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Thanks for the info guys.
It turned out the boat is being destroyed for some reason. I do have a good source for top notch parts at wholesale prices from boat building materials to engines. For instance, I have a 20' runabout and rebuilt the 305 volvo-penta over last weekend. It needed a new block due to mine being cracked. I got out rebuilding the engine for under $250. Had I not done it myself I was quoted $2500. I also redid the camper top using sunbrella material and redid the mooring cover using top dog material. The camper was reinforced at all seams with acrylic 2 inch wide webbing, I used solid steel snap buttons, and 30 gauge clear vinyl for the windows. The mooring cover also used the same webbing and buttons. My total cost in parts was $225, less than a semi-custom fit mooring cover would cost, instead I have perfect custom fit replacements. I was quoted $1600 for the camper top and $500 for the mooring cover using medium grade materials. I showed the canvas shop my end result and they asked me where I bought my supplies and said I had a better deal on prices and quantity than they did, they also wanted to use the same webbing I had. I have all the right tools for the jobs as well. It took me 2 evenings to make the camper top and 1 morning to make the mooring cover. Top notch job really, I was impressed with myself. I never thought I'd be proud to say I used a sewing machine, but I saved a lot of money. Rebuilding the engine took less than a day. I got the engine out in under and hour, spent an hour de-greasing it and labeling the parts. Picked up a new cylinder block from a local engine shop for $50, the gaskets, and new bearings. Had the engine back together with enough time left to enjoy a couple margarita's. So, this is why I'm looking for a project boat. I love building and working on things, I think that's half the fun. Not to mention I can take something worth next to nothing and the biggest expense is my time. I'm a DIYfer. I just saved over $4,000 for roughly 23 hours of work. Probably more since I used high quality materials. The last time I rebuilt an engine I was 19, that was 10 years ago. I've been working my tail off in a high demand career for the last 7 years and it's time to enjoy "hobbies" like this. I know most people would just rather go out and buy a working boat, etc., but I like doing this and since I like it I can come out ahead. The only bills I have are my mortgage, insurance, and a couple utilities. Not to mention I bought this house 16 months ago and I'll have it paid off in 6 more years. I don't believe in having debt, so I rarely take advice when it comes to spending money. |
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