New Boat, New Member

[CheckedOut]

I'm a new member on this site. Thought I'd run this by ya'll (southern for all of you) and see what you think.

I picked up this '82 Enchanter last week via E-Bay for $561.03. A project boat for sure, but how could I go wrong at that price?

It has to be repowered due to an engine fire. She was sold for an insurance company that considered it a total loss, but the hull was not damaged in the fire.

I'm quite sure some stringers and flooring will have to be replaced followed by new carpeting and seating.

Scratches are numerous. Some touch-up, buffing and a couple coats of gel should take care of that.

In short, she's going to take some work.

Question is, do you think I have anything worth working with?

Thanks

82Enchanter (http://ebay.carad.com/viewItem/viewAllPhotos.cfm?listing=1444215&template=48)

[Chris E]

I was right!!! - looked at this one awhile ago and i thought it had caught fire - but the wiring didn't look that bad - what's the story behind this boat? From the pictures it looks like it's in fairly good shape - what engine are you putting on it?

[cooperider]

I bid on that one for awile but stopped cause I was afraid I'd have to go get it and they had all these extra fees added on above your bid price I did not like that. Congrats and http://checkmate-boats.com/6/ws/,s,8626072361/Graemlins/welcome.gif

[cooperider]

I was gonna buy it to fix and then sell so I think you did ok.
That was a pretty neat layout they had for the pictures wasn't it.

[CheckedOut]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Chris E:
I was right!!! - looked at this one awhile ago and i thought it had caught fire - but the wiring didn't look that bad - what's the story behind this boat? From the pictures it looks like it's in fairly good shape - what engine are you putting on it? <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

I'm looking out for a 200 Merc. I haven't picked up the boat yet, therefore I'm not sure if it needs a 20 or 25 inch shaft. Judging from the pictures, it had a 20 and it didn't fully clear the transom.

That's not my concern now, I've got to make it water-worthy before considering power. I think she'll make a good project this winter though.

[CheckedOut]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by cooperider:
I bid on that one for awile but stopped cause I was afraid I'd have to go get it and they had all these extra fees added on above your bid price I did not like that. Congrats and http://checkmate-boats.com/6/ws/,s,8626072361/Graemlins/welcome.gif <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Thanks.

Yeah, they tacked on a $100 doc fee so the price was actually $661. Oh well, I take solice in the fact the trailer itself is worth that. At least that's what I keep telling myself.

You were correct in considering transportation costs. Rather than traveling 1,600 miles round trip to get it home, I'm looking for a beater in the Davenport/Moline area capable of pulling it. Flight cost will only be $94.00.

I plan to fly into Moline, IL and make the transaction for a pickup there.

On the other hand, if you know of anyone willing to transport the boat to southern Alabama for me, I will pay them $500.00 without batting an eye.

This time of year, that would cover lodging and meals for a weekend at any of the beaches just south of me. Water and air temperature is still near 78 degrees. Pass the word.

[JW]

How about finding a nice used 3.0 225 horse 20" shaft outboard and stick it on there, run the snot out of it until you want a newer hull in a couple years, pull the motor and Ebay the hull/trailer for what you paid? You sure you want to pull up that floor? You'll find a ton of wet floatation to dig out with a spoon, you'll find the floor and seats need to be completely replaced, and possibly some wet coring. Then you'll notice the transom is soggy and have to replace that. HUGE project. You got it so cheap, I'd run the snot out of it until it broke or I got bored with it and then dump it and put that nice 225 on another hull http://checkmate-boats.com/6/ws/,s,8626072361/Graemlins/thumb.gif

[CheckedOut]

Thanks for the good advice. I'm anticipating the worst and don't yet know what I've bought. Problem is...I doubt I'll trade up.

I love the simplicity of older hulls with clean lines, lower weight and less trim. All of which equates to less maintenance once fully restored.

Knowing myself like I do, I'm going to throw way too much money into it with no shortcuts, but she'll be "right" upon completion.

Nothing turns heads faster than a clean, older rig.

I can afford to finance a new boat, but I'll get more satisfaction from people knowing I saved this one.

[bostoncan]

I agree with you there checkedout, ya got to look twice at an older boat in nice shape (great lines). Good luck with the restore and have fun.

[ILLandowner]

I live in the Peoria Illinois area, and am currently out of work! I would like to discuss details of the possibility of delivering your new boat to you. (besides I have a 82 Enchanter myself)

ILLandowner@AOL.com
(309) 245-2603

[JUPITER PULSARE]

CHECKED OUT, CONGRATS ON THE PROJECT BOAT AND http://checkmate-boats.com/6/ws/,s,8626072361/Graemlins/welcome.gif TO THE SITE. GREAT SATISFACTION COMES FROM A BOAT RESTORATION PROJECT.

[jgreen]

http://checkmate-boats.com/6/ws/,s,8626072361/Graemlins/welcome.gif ILLANDOWNER & checkedout.

Checkedout, when you start your project, give us all some " work in progress" pics, we'd love to see them http://checkmate-boats.com/6/ws/,s,8626072361/Graemlins/thumb.gif

[ILLandowner]

Pulse185

Thanks for the welcome, I've been a member of this site since March of 2004. I just haven't been very active in the forums. Read alot of them, just haven't typed much!

I guess Checkedout has checkedout! Or found a way to get his new boat back to Alabama!

[CheckedOut]

ILLandowner...Man! I wish you would have replied sooner. The transport companies wouldn't work with me, therefore I bought a truck via E-Bay Wednesday.

I'm flying into Dayton this Thursday to take delivery of the pickup. (Gotta love Priceline. Airfare is only $114) It just so happens, I plan to spend the night in Peoria and pick up the boat in Eldridge on Friday.

I'd like to take a look at your Enchanter if possible...need some ideas cause they are quite rare down here.

I've got your number.

If you've got an hour so to spare late Thursday night (I'll buy the beer) or early Friday morning (Breakfast on me), let me know and I'll give you a call.

[ILLandowner]

CheckedOut
Sure, give me a call. I live in Farmington...a town about 15 miles West of Peoria on Rt 116. I'm not sure about getting ideas from my Enchanter though...it needs some work on it also, but your welcome to take a look. (and I do like my beer!)

[ILLandowner]

Hey Checked Out,
I just realized this coming Friday (Nov. 19th) is the opening day of Deer Gun Season!!! Friday morning is O.U.T. out!!!!! If Thursday afternoon/evening will work great!

Hope to hear from you,
Dave

[CheckedOut]

Roger that, Dave! By all means, put some meat in the freezer. I'll give you a ring Thursday evening if it's not too late.

...Monty

mmccaughan@bellsouth.net

[CheckedOut]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by pulse185:
http://checkmate-boats.com/6/ws/,s,8626072361/Graemlins/welcome.gif ILLANDOWNER & checkedout.

Checkedout, when you start your project, give us all some " work in progress" pics, we'd love to see them http://checkmate-boats.com/6/ws/,s,8626072361/Graemlins/thumb.gif <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Don't worry, Pulse. I'm almost certain to post pics along the way with many questions to follow. I'm a boater, but this will be my first restoration.

I'll need you guys to steer me in the right direction and thanks for the welcome.

[TheMaxx]

Hey CheckedOut, I just acquired an 82 Diplomat from my brother in law. He replaced the floor with no problems (nothing rotten underneath just a soft spot in it) he's ticky. He traded for a V6 Merc and jack plate and hung it. I hjad some interior work done and i'm very happy with it. It was fun doing the work, very satisfying. Go for it! http://checkmate-boats.com/6/ws/,s,8626072361/Graemlins/thumb.gif

[TheMaxx]

P.S http://checkmate-boats.com/6/ws/,s,8626072361/Graemlins/welcome.gif