Engines out and transom work begins

The marine surveyor found some "dead spots" in the transom.  I enlisted Steve from Progressive Boats to complete the redo of the transom.  This picture was taken just after the engines were removed.

Transom work complete

All the holes and dead spots were cleaned out and filled with methelcrylite (SP?) and other materials.  A fresh coat of gel coat was applied.  Notice the old engine mount from the Volvo's.  This later had to be removed.

Transom Adapter Plates

Mercruiser makes adapter plates that come close to the Volvo 290 holes, but not close enough.  The transom holes had to be enlarged and new holes drilled.  All holes were drilled oversized and epoxy filled before being drilled the correct size.  No exposed wood was the name of the game!

Engine Template

While waiting for the real engines to be delivered, RPM sent an engine mock up complete with transom and front engine mounts.  Modifications had to be made and are now a standard option for front engine mounts.. 

New Transom Platform

Butler Marine had a perfect fit and color match for the transom platform  Installation was a little difficult, but the results are what I was looking for.

New wires and batteries

To update the power reserves, I decided to add a third bank of batteries. Two group 27 batteries along with two isolation transformers for even charging of all three banks.  Charles Marine sketched out the design and allows for redundancy from  both alternators charging all batteries. 

More new wiring...

With trim and trim tab pumps installed, the back of the transform platform begins to take shape.  Many hours still need to be spent to get this mess looking professional.

New Gauges and Flow-Scans

New gauges included Flow-scan Twin Scans on the lower helm and a Flow Scan 9000 series on the Fly Bridge.  All analogue gauges were replaced with Teleflex Heavy Duty Series gauges.  The upper helm cover was made from 3/8" black starboard. 

Details...

Every wire is cut to fit and crimped and heat shrink sealed. Everything on this boat has to last.  I decided to go with yellow for the instrument ground.  Some disagree with the new standard, but I like how yellow stands out from black.

New folding radar arch

Custom Tops and Towers in Virginia added a folding radar arch complete with stands to cradle the arch while on the trailer.  The new bimini top folds into the arch.

Arch in the run position

It takes two to three people to raise the arch and install the front bolts.  Once in position, the bimini attaches on the original grab rails and is ready to go.  Total time to raise is less then 5 minutes.   

More rod holders

An additional four rod holders have been added behind the fly bridge seat.  The lower canvas and fly bridge cover were also replaced with stamoid fabric and strataglass clears.  A Stitch Above in Virginia did the work.      5/24/04