NEWBIE! 1991 Bayliner Needs Floor replaced

[NERIC]

Ok folks,

I am a newbie. First time on the site, just registered. I am also a newbie in the boat restoration world. Been looking for a project boat for almost a year. I am considered buying a project Bayliner that needs the floor replaced. Soft spot right where the gas tank is but the guy started ripping up the whole floor and I guess cant do it anymore. He is selling for $700. It has a "Brand New" Mercruiser 215 with outdrive that is currently out of the boat with the seats. He took the motor out to take up the floor after using the boat last summer only a handful of times. The back wall also needs to be replaced, but not the transom if that makes sense.

I am not experienced working with wood but I have a good friend who is a stud in that area but has never done it with boats. He is willing to help. I also have a couple of mechanic friends who are willing/able to help me install motor and outdrive.

I have attached some pics...anyone have any thoughts on this??

 

[kamby]

Re: NEWBIE! 1991 Bayliner Needs Floor replaced

That definatly is a project boat, main thing is you have to make sure its a project you want to tackle, if you do check it over good make sure there isnt any other hidden damages on the transom and around the drain plug, and the insulation isnt sogging wet. Other than that if you got the time and the money go for it if you like the boat. Just watch what you have in it, and try not to go more than what the boat sells for.

 

[kamby]

Re: NEWBIE! 1991 Bayliner Needs Floor replaced

Oh yeah, and welcome aboard, i think you will find this boat site great.. With lots of helpful people with lots of knowledge.

 

[lowkee]

Re: NEWBIE! 1991 Bayliner Needs Floor replaced

I have the same boat, so you found a great place to find info, as I'll likely be a step ahead at each leg (doing a resto now). I would want to see that engine fired up before dishing out the cash, as without a powerplant you have a giant pot for growing plants. Beyond that, estimate your budget, estimate the costs, double them both (not kidding) and decide from there. If you decide to move forward with the purchase and resto project, you are among friends. We'll help you whenever you need it.

Oh, and you need to redo that transom, I can see it from here.

Welcome to iboats!

 

[NERIC]

Re: NEWBIE! 1991 Bayliner Needs Floor replaced

Thanks for such a warm welcome and your quick replies! Ok, I am about to prove just how much of a newbie i am. Is there a way to fire up the engine when its outside of the boat? If so, how? The guy claims its a year old and only been used a handful of times, but I still want to see it run. If it does, I figure a brand new mercruiser and outdrive is at least worth it from the get go after looking around at the costs of new motors.

Ok next newbie question. Assuming the engine is rockin, if i did this with the help i mentioned, any idea on costs of a resto like this? Cost is definitely a factor. I do not mind spending money over time but I do not want to spend more than 2000.

 

[lowkee]

Re: NEWBIE! 1991 Bayliner Needs Floor replaced

Cost is definitely a factor. I do not mind spending money over time but I do not want to spend more than 2000.

If you do ALL of the work yourself, you might make it with $2K, not including tools. You would have to be very frugal, though. Just a deck replacement will cost roughly $800-$1,000. Then you still need stringers, a transom rebuild and an interior.

If you add another $1K to that budget, you will be fine and not as stressed out about buying the right stuff. I finally had to shrug and say "Well, I want the boat, so it'll cost what it costs". Anything less will become quite stressful.

As for the motor, yes, you can run it out of the boat, I just have no idea how, but others can likely explain the process. It may not be possible without special equipment. If you wish to take the risk and the motor really is good, it would be a great deal in my eyes. IF the motor and outdrive are good.

 

[Utahboatnut]

Re: NEWBIE! 1991 Bayliner Needs Floor replaced

Like lowkey said the transom looks shot already, so plan on that if you buy it. I agree with the comment of budget if you think it will be 500.00 for something it usually goes about 800.00 - 1,000.00 boats have a funny way of nickel and dimeing you to death. The motor and drive would have to as new as the owner claims for me to even think about buying as there is some work to be done(lots of it) before that boat is ready to float again. Good luck and if you do get it lots of info here on how to proceed.

 

[proshadetree]

Re: NEWBIE! 1991 Bayliner Needs Floor replaced

91 should be carb still. hot wire to coil neg to block hot to starter then jump it out.Gas lie in can dont run long.And make sure you have it sported good.If it will turn over with a starter the oil isnt full of water.Id hook stater up do a compression test crank it over and use a cheap oil pressure gauge.Iv seen engines with cracked blocks run like a champ till water was put to them.700 for the out drive is a great price.

 

[fat fanny]

Re: NEWBIE! 1991 Bayliner Needs Floor replaced

Neric check out Wil7483's 5.0to5.7 Rapido Rebuilt engine swap thread in I/O's somewhere in about 1/2 way he startsa his new engine on a stand he built himself it's a video link. Also read anything in the hull extension thread by OOPS everything you need to know about fiberglassing is in there period. these threads will give you a good idea weather you want to tackle this project or not Iknow after I read them (oops's thread) I will never attempt it just not for me but anyhow good luck and as the others mentioned if you do decide to do this they will walk you through it that you can count on and that's gauranteed.

 

[jcsercsa]

Re: NEWBIE! 1991 Bayliner Needs Floor replaced

welcome

I did my deck , stringers, and transom , about 850, mine is only a 15.6 footer !!

If the motor is good , and you really like the boat them go for it !!

But if you find soft stringer more then likely there is some rot in the transom some where . I would say if your willing to do the stringers , bite the bullet and just do the transom , it shouldn't take more then a day or two extra , and then you wont have to worry about her for the next 30 plus years !!!

Have you read the completed projects forum , thats where I learned a lot and from my brother Ooops ,Ondarvr, Td , and all the rest of the guys here , just a great bunch of guys here !!!

Ok welcome again , John