1981 Chapparal restoration

[077tango]

Hello! Found this old boat that sparks my interest, I live in Houston and plan to use for fishing and putting around in the gulf (not way offshore). This is a 1981 Chapparal 244 that was originally an I/o but transom rebuilt for an outboard. I am aware of the pitfalls of a project like this but I enjoy the work (never anything this size though). Hopefully someone can tell me what to look for and if this model is worth the time and effort. Seller says the hull and deck are solid but you know how that goes. Since no motor included I'd like input on what would be a good fit. Right now seller is at $2,500 for boat and trailer, your thoughts are much appreciated.

 

[AShipShow]

In my opinion, it's worth the price of the trailer. No motor and a most likely rotted hull? How much do you want to pay for that?

that aside, if you love the boat and hate money, go for it! Tons of help available here

 

[077tango]

Need to confirm, but thought I read this is not a cored hull. Not in love with the boat, just thinking might be a solid platform for what I want. Kinda thinking work on the boat through the winter and look at used motors and peripherals next spring (if I have any money left). Just trying to get feedback if this model is worth the time and effort.
Thanks

 

[chevymaher]

Only if it is worth it to you. I did it and I would do it again. Your not here to make money just have fun. If you enjoy restoring things and boating it is worth every minute of it.

 

[077tango]

Only if it is worth it to you. I did it and I would do it again. Your not here to make money just have fun. If you enjoy restoring things and boating it is worth every minute of it.

I think you hit it on the head!
Thanks

 

[kcassells]

Well then time to get at it! Lots of good guys here to help you out. Welcome aboard.

 

[077tango]

I asked the seller about fuel tanks and a few things, here's his response:

This is my boat. Clear title in hand. The reason for the conversion to To outboard engines is there’s not a lot of people that work on the sterndrives and I had a lot of problems with it. Boat is soiled has new Transom and it. The fuel tank is 100 gallon aluminum great shape. Has 18 gallon aluminum auxiliary tank.

Hopefully he meant solid instead of soiled, probably go see the boat this weekend.

 

[AShipShow]

My fear is the fact that only the transom was replaced... That means the transom was rotten at some point, and odds are, if the transom is rotten, then so are the stringers.

I would consider the purchase under the assumption that its going to be a full resto. Personally, I think its a cool looking boat and is worthy, but then again, I have "the disease"...

 

[077tango]

Should be easy to check out the stringers, seller says he was going to put twin 1990 Mercury 2 strokes (about 300 hours each) on it, wiling to part with them also. No price for those yet...