Hello from Maine, USA

[travis_farmer]

i just recently bought a 1973 Cruisers Inc Marlin 23, and it needs a lot of work. i don't have much money, so it will likely be a slow process.
the hull needs a little work, the engine (Chevy 350 V8) has sat long enough to cause it to be stuck, and needs an alternator and distributor, the sterndrive (OMC) needs new gears and bearings. so like i said, it needs a lot of work. but that is why i bought it, something productive to putter on, and eventually use on some inland big lakes.


i look forward to learning as i go.


~Travis

[Steadman Uhlich]

Howdy Travis. Welcome Aboard CF!

I am not familiar with that boat.

As with any intro post, photos help.

My Suggestion: Post a photo of your boat. As you work on it, document your work with text and photos. Share that. When you do, I think you will make more connections with other boaters who may be able to encourage you or provide supportive advice. Misery loves company.

Enjoy your time on the forum and in your new to you boat!

[travis_farmer]

I have attached some pictures the boat seller took when he sold the boat. i haven't taken any pictures yet myself.

1 - front angle

2 - rear angle
3 - inside
4 - fly bridge


i will gladly share my re-build progress. just so i don't step on any toes my first time in, i presume "Powered Boats" would be the board to log my (slow) progress?


~Travis

[GordMay]

Greetings and welcome aboard the CF, Travis.

[GypsyC]

Travis, what an adventure ahead! I have an idea that old Chevy v8 will be an easy fix since there must be gazillions around to get parts from. They never really die - they just sometimes go into a coma and wait to be resurrected. I am on eastcoast as well so hope someday can see the finished project. Bestof and have fun.

[James S]

Great pics Travis.. thanks

[WatrGrrl]

Hi Travis,
I'm also in Maine, over in Belfast and can at least say that there are a few yards around us... Of course they tend to be a tad pricey. Might be a good idea to get to some folks at a yard near you - who knows, maybe someone can help you out with your stern drive off-hours for a reduced rate, although it may be more economical to replace with a compatible used unit. I agree that ol' Chevy engines never die, they just get rebuilt and repurposed. Local gas jockey might be able to straighten it out and have it purring for ya in no time... Good luck and I hope to read about your adventure!
Carrie

[travis_farmer]

Hello Carrie,
so far my Adventure seems to be a whole bunch of exponentially multiplying "projects" in getting my boat water-ready.


first, i got the engine un-stuck, and running: https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums...v8-204195.html



then i started working on the boat itself: http://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/...on-205489.html



so far, i have the boat stripped down, and will hopefully start rebuilding... something, this weekend.


~Travis