1968 Caravelle tri-hull complete restoration

[firstboatbuild]

I am starting a 1968 Caravelle tri hull that came with a 1968 Johnson 85. I will be doing a complete restoration of this boat and turn it back to the wonderful boat it was. Will be posting pics soon.
Will be gutting it and doing a new transom, new stringers and deck. Will also be updating the wiring and gauges.
Engine will be getting reworked with carb rebuild, new water pump, and new wiring and mice ate the old. Compression is good so the internal should not be a problem.
Will be posting as often as I can and feedback is always welcome.

 

[bartborchardt]

Re: 1968 Caravelle tri-hull complete restoration

Welcome to Iboats! Looking forward to seeing the pics.

 

[firstboatbuild]

Re: 1968 Caravelle tri-hull complete restoration

Lot or work to do.

 

[firstboatbuild]

Re: 1968 Caravelle tri-hull complete restoration

Got to love the old tri hull lines.

 

[emoney]

Re: 1968 Caravelle tri-hull complete restoration

Looks like a great project and I'm looking forward to watching your progress.

 

[firstboatbuild]

Re: 1968 Caravelle tri-hull complete restoration

Got a few hours work in. Most of the floor is up and under it is a mess. Dont think there is even enough left of may of the parts to make paterns. Oh well just means more time consuming fitting work. transom has a big hole in it. Fiberglass had all but rotted off the inside of it. Will be doing more work today will keep you all posted.

 

[Woodonglass]

Re: 1968 Caravelle tri-hull complete restoration

Welcome to iBoats!

Make some marks on the sides of the hull for reference as to where the original deck was. You can then run some string lines and plumb lines to help in making patterns for your stringers since you will not have any for patterns. Looks like you're gunna have to remove the topcap to get to your transom too! Make sure to wear a good Respirator!!! Some of the Mold and dust in these old girls can REALLY make you sick. Ask me how I know THAT!!! A 4 1/2" grinder with a back up pad and 34 grit sanding discs will make short work of grinding out all that old wood and glass. Check with your local body shops and marine shops to see if there are any local suppliers for Resin and Glass. If not, www.uscomposites.com is a GREAT resource on the web. For starters you'll need approx. 5-10 gals of poly resin (404 or 435 laminating type) 15 yards of 1.5 oz CSM mat and 15 yards of 24 oz Woven Roven or I prefer 1708 Biax Cloth. Lots of examples here for you to see how everything is done. Don't be afraid to ask questions. That 68 Johnson is a GREAT motor!

 

[firstboatbuild]

Re: 1968 Caravelle tri-hull complete restoration

Got the top cap ready to come off today. Need to wait for some help to lift if off but it is loose and ready to go. Already had all my reference marks but thanks for the advice will need it as i go along. Motor came off easy and everything is going smooth. By the end of the weekend I hope to have the cap off and the old transom cut out.

 

[morgane]

Re: 1968 Caravelle tri-hull complete restoration

Hey,
I just got a 1971 Caravelle. Fortunately in good shape. But the back bench is gone, which leave a big opening to the transom where water can get under the floor. Do you have any pictures of what is supposed to be back there? (I already installed a bilge pump)
thanks
Ed

 

[firstboatbuild]

Re: 1968 Caravelle tri-hull complete restoration

Sorry it has taken me so long to get back. I am on vacation and will get those pics and more info for you when i return next week.