Free

[g1vetter]

Just picked up what will probably be the most expensive "Free" acquisition in my lifetime. Have a Winter project now.
'79 John Allmand 26' Freedom Express. Any thoughts?

 

[Grub54891]

Have fun!

 

[Woodonglass]

Never owned one but from what I've learned, they are a quality built boat. Once you've inspected her and determined what needs to be done, I'm sure the members here on the forum will be able to help guide you to a quality restoration. This boat should last you a lifetime once she's restored. I really like her styling and will be watching as you move along!!!

 

[g1vetter]

Yes, first step is figuring out what I have. Single V8. I was told Ford. Unsure if 302 or 351. Also need to find out what kind of transmission it is.

 

[g1vetter]

Vessel was formerly named "C. I. Clamdigger"

 

[Scott Danforth]

It may turn out ok, at least its not an obsolete brand outdrive.

 

[g1vetter]

So, here are some pics from today. Can anybody guess about what engine/transmission we're looking at? Also, what is the thing in the 1st pic?

 

[g1vetter]

I guess I don't know how to make the pics show larger.

 

[gm280]

I guess I don't know how to make the pics show larger.

Some folks use Phototbucket and copy the code over here to post pictures. And others take their pictures and use a photo editor and size them to fit here. I take my pictures and use mspaint and resize them and post them here. And I do that because if you use photobucket and post pictures and later on decide to remove them from photobucket or even move them around in photobucket, they are totally useless here then and you loose the pictures to your project... IDK :noidea:

 

[g1vetter]

 

[g1vetter]

thanks. that seemed to work

 

[g1vetter]

 

[DeepBlue2010]

This is a hydraulic pump . Do you have trim tabs? If so, this what actuate them. Good "free as a puppy" project you got there

 

[g1vetter]

It is supposed have trim tabs. The rams are on the transom but the tabs are missing.

 

[g1vetter]

I'm pretty sure its a Ford 302 motor. Any guesses on the transmission?

 

[Woodonglass]

Not sure but I'll do some research and see what I can come up with.

Not a lot out there but Possibly a Borg-Warner

 

[g1vetter]

Maybe Paragon from looking at pics on the net.
I'll have to get closer and look for model numbers and such. Maybe P32r?

 

[Ned L]

Nice! A little TLC and you should have a great boat.

I don't recognize the reverse gear. It doesn't really look like a B-W, and does have a bit of a Paragon look to it. I'll be curious to hear who made it.
Are the exhaust manifolds aluminum?? That would be a bit different.
Does the engine turn over?

 

[g1vetter]

Don't know about the manifolds. They are painted and say Commander. Haven't tried the engine as the batteries are not charged and I assume they won't take a charge. I'll try to charge them though. I was told the engine ran well 2 years ago. I'll have to drain and check the gas tank before I try it.

I haven't ever had a vessel this large before so this will not be a quick fix for me. Lots to learn about how its all wired and plumbed. Its a little overwhelming but I think I can do it.

 

[Ned L]

The manifold & risers both look aluminum ( no rust). If a magnet doesn't stick, they are aluminum.