Search found 760 matches

by dtmackey
Mon Mar 28, 2022 9:59 pm
Forum: The GAM
Topic: Spring Prep
Replies: 4
Views: 811

Re: Spring Prep

Spring in Michigan is still cold. It has snowed here the last three days, but no accumulation. My boat--which is 250-miles north--won't come out of storage until May. In extreme northern Michigan, the snow is still falling, and they've had 300-inches already--25-feet of snow! It was 65 on Sat and t...
by dtmackey
Mon Mar 28, 2022 9:53 pm
Forum: The GAM
Topic: Short Film: SUPER SPORT 15 Underway
Replies: 11
Views: 1746

Re: Short Film: SUPER SPORT 15 Underway

You cannot get any usable sound with drones—too much noise from the motors and blades. Use a microphone on the boat to get natural sound. Use a windscreen on the microphone. Record the sound separately from the drone footage and marry the picture and sound in editing. These days youTube production ...
by dtmackey
Mon Mar 28, 2022 9:48 pm
Forum: The GAM
Topic: Short Film: SUPER SPORT 15 Underway
Replies: 11
Views: 1746

Re: Short Film: SUPER SPORT 15 Underway

porthole wrote:Great video.
What year Whaler?
I had a 1983 15 Sport center console, sill is/was my favorite of 7 boats.


1986 SuperSport and in the vid it had a 2005 Yamaha 70 2 stroke. The boat now has a new F70 4 stroke with a jackplate.

It's a fun little boat.

D-
by dtmackey
Sun Mar 27, 2022 10:40 pm
Forum: The GAM
Topic: Spring Prep
Replies: 4
Views: 811

Spring Prep

This is time of year when my Whaler wakes up from its winter nap, I move the boat from a storage location to an area I can access it, and I get a few things done. I decided to install new hubs with studs rather than the wheel bolts. Installed stainless lug nuts and new, larger size rims and tires. h...
by dtmackey
Thu Mar 24, 2022 4:03 pm
Forum: The GAM
Topic: Short Film: SUPER SPORT 15 Underway
Replies: 11
Views: 1746

Short Film: SUPER SPORT 15 Underway

Not sure if I previously shared this. My son made the vid with his drone when we explored a salt water river in the area. I knew he was shooting video and thought I'd watch a bunch of jumbled video, but he edited it down into a nicely presented video to music. I think he did a great job. https://you...
by dtmackey
Thu Mar 24, 2022 3:49 pm
Forum: The GAM
Topic: My Version of Fun Captured on Camera
Replies: 2
Views: 707

My Version of Fun Captured on Camera

This isn't a recording of my wild teenage years--those were much crazier. It's a short recording of how I tow the Whaler behind the bigger boat to the Cape and use to explore and have fun: https://youtube.com/shorts/AMCO-20W9w0?feature=share GOING THROUGH "THE SHOOT" I first did this with ...
by dtmackey
Mon Mar 21, 2022 10:48 pm
Forum: The GAM
Topic: Blue Top Legend
Replies: 12
Views: 4775

Re: Blue Top Legend

Been watching Blue Top Legend for a while, and the videos remind me of my teen years ripping around in one of several 13 and 15 Whalers over the years. We (me and friends) would go downriver and then follow all the big sport fisherman boats that were running at a good slip and throwing a massive wak...
by dtmackey
Sun Mar 13, 2022 10:22 pm
Forum: REPAIRS and MODIFICATIONS
Topic: Hull Sprayed with Bed Liner
Replies: 11
Views: 2041

Re: Hull Sprayed with Bed Liner

Some types of bedliner are like armor and almost impossible to remove. I'd be curious to see a picture and learn more about how well it's bonded and how hard to sand.

D-
by dtmackey
Thu Mar 10, 2022 10:29 pm
Forum: The GAM
Topic: A Boat Market Slow Down
Replies: 10
Views: 1571

Re: A Boat Market Slow Down

Typically for the past two years I have only consumed about 100-gallons of fuel, so even a $3 increase won't stop my boating. Compared to my fixed costs of boating, and extra $300 is nothing significant. However, I won't be planning any 400-mile cruises. It will be another Summer of just trips arou...
by dtmackey
Thu Mar 10, 2022 4:26 pm
Forum: The GAM
Topic: A Boat Market Slow Down
Replies: 10
Views: 1571

Re: A Boat Market Slow Down

There is seasonality in the colder climates that happens no matter the economy. Same with snowmobiles and other seasonal toys. It's a weird time. A friend just signed a P&S on a 47-foot powerboat. He was lucky since he was talking with the broker 30-minutes after it listed and he jumped on it la...
by dtmackey
Thu Mar 10, 2022 4:07 pm
Forum: The GAM
Topic: A Boat Market Slow Down
Replies: 10
Views: 1571

A Boat Market Slow Down

Based on recent events in the world and the ever increasing cost of fuel, curious on what the feeling is when the boat market will slow down. I've been in awe with the demand over the past 2 years and number of new boaters, but in the back if my mind I always wondered if they were payment shoppers o...
by dtmackey
Thu Mar 10, 2022 9:58 am
Forum: REPAIRS and MODIFICATIONS
Topic: Rebuilding Gear Case of 48SPL-Part 3
Replies: 29
Views: 2976

Re: Rebuilding Gear Case of 48SPL-Part 3

Tig is an artform and with thicker metal like a gearcase (large mass), preheating is key for a good weld... We were working in a cold shop on a very cold day. The gearcase sucked heat like you wouldn't believe. My skillful buddy used to do welding at an aerospace company when he was young. He let h...
by dtmackey
Tue Mar 08, 2022 10:25 pm
Forum: REPAIRS and MODIFICATIONS
Topic: Rebuilding Gear Case of 48SPL-Part 3
Replies: 29
Views: 2976

Re: Rebuilding Gear Case of 48SPL-Part 3

Tig welding is an artform, and with thicker metal like a gearcase (with a large mass), preheating is key for a good weld. That's why many places that weld outboard gear cases units ask for the gear case to be stripped. They preheat the entire gear case to prepare for welding. I purchased a Tig AC/DC...
by dtmackey
Mon Mar 07, 2022 9:30 pm
Forum: The GAM
Topic: Positive Boating
Replies: 5
Views: 1026

Re: Positive Boating

In no particular order:

- Learn launching ramp etiquette
- Take a boating course
- Practice backing a trailer somewhere other than the launching ramp, until you are good at it
- Go with a friend to pick up pointers from their boating

I'm sure there's more that will come to mind later.

D-
by dtmackey
Tue Mar 01, 2022 9:56 am
Forum: The GAM
Topic: GARMIN Acquires VESPER Marine
Replies: 3
Views: 811

Re: GARMIN Acquires VESPER Marine

Had a NAVMAN yeas ago and it was a great priced multifuntion GPS plotter with additional features in a 12" screen for far less than competitive units. I'm not a huge fan of all the mergers and aquisitions and I believe it stifles competition. The cost of new marine electronics is getting out of...
by dtmackey
Fri Feb 25, 2022 8:21 am
Forum: PERFORMANCE
Topic: Modifying 2005 130 SPORT Hull
Replies: 13
Views: 5987

Re: Modifying 130 SPORT Hull

jimh wrote:
Miss Conduct wrote:Q6: What are the effects of eliminating the hook?

The value of the boat will be decreased.


Have to agree with this. There doesn't seem to be demand for modified Whaler hulls in any size, but people pay a premium for an unmolested hull in great condition.

D-
by dtmackey
Thu Feb 24, 2022 4:21 pm
Forum: PERFORMANCE
Topic: Modifying 2005 130 SPORT Hull
Replies: 13
Views: 5987

Re: Modifying 130 SPORT Hull

My friend has the first-generation 130 SPORT like [the boat under discussion]. The first-generation 130 SPORT is one heavy boat that needs lots of power. He repowered with a E-TEC 40-HP because he didn't think the four-stroke engines under 40-HP were up to the task. He wasn't looking for a speed dem...
by dtmackey
Thu Feb 24, 2022 12:46 pm
Forum: PERFORMANCE
Topic: Modifying 2005 130 SPORT Hull
Replies: 13
Views: 5987

Re: Modifying 130 SPORT Hull

Jefecinco wrote:Q3: Does the 130 Sport hull have a hook?


That's what I was thinking. I know the 13 has a hook, but not sure about the 130. Also, didn't the 130 go through a design change and kept it's 130 designation.

Q4: what hull is being discussed?

D-
by dtmackey
Tue Feb 22, 2022 10:39 pm
Forum: REPAIRS and MODIFICATIONS
Topic: Southeast Michigan Repair Shop for Engine Cowling
Replies: 5
Views: 1087

Re: Southeast Michigan Repair Shop for Engine Cowling

If it's just a nick, then a little marglass or filler will take care of that, but it cracked, then you'd want to glass it and then fair the surface. Most body shops won't touch small jobs like that as getting the paint and the order of operation is too quick and they fall back on a high price to get...
by dtmackey
Sun Feb 13, 2022 10:15 pm
Forum: The GAM
Topic: Enough Winter
Replies: 25
Views: 3908

Re: Enough Winter

I'd never give uo my winters and look forward to them. Allows me to snowmobile, ski and catch up on boat projects. https://i.imgur.com/d0jJCXWl.jpg https://i.imgur.com/Nwhagyql.jpg Also allows me to get boat stuff done. Pulled the genny in the tug since the cast iron watercooled elbow let go and the...
by dtmackey
Mon Feb 07, 2022 10:11 pm
Forum: The GAM
Topic: Flanging Tool
Replies: 2
Views: 1166

Re: Flanging Tool

As far as I know there has been no progress on any sort of group project to produce flanging tools among participants of the forum at CONTINUOUSWAVE. Tom Clark recently emailed me to inform me of a new design for a flanging tool that he has developed which significantly improves the ability to use ...
by dtmackey
Wed Feb 02, 2022 10:32 pm
Forum: PERFORMANCE
Topic: SUPER SPORT 15 with F70A
Replies: 7
Views: 6092

Re: SUPER SPORT 15 with F70A

[For recommended engine mounting height for the 15-foot hulls] the generic response is "three-holes-up." Many of us have been experimenting and actually have the 15-foot hull and F70 motor, and you can go to a mounting height of all-the-way-up [i.e. four-holes-up] with no problems. I run a...
by dtmackey
Tue Feb 01, 2022 10:40 pm
Forum: REPAIRS and MODIFICATIONS
Topic: Rebuilding Gear Case of 48SPL-Part 1
Replies: 46
Views: 13288

Re: Rebuilding Gear Case of 48SPL

Oldslowandugly wrote:I can't get the propeller bearing carrier into the gearcase when the O-ring is installed. Otherwise it fits inside fine. Further study is indicated.
Grease it up and give it a shot, some are a very snug fit.
by dtmackey
Mon Jan 31, 2022 10:48 pm
Forum: REPAIRS and MODIFICATIONS
Topic: Trailer: Conversion to Torsion Spring Axle from Leaf Spring Axle
Replies: 17
Views: 4028

Re: Trailer: Conversion to Torsion Spring Axle from Leaf Spring Axle

...on my trailer the hubs have threaded holes. The wheels mount to the hubs with bolts that have a hex head with a taper. This eliminates any exposed threads. That's what I have now and I prefer studs as the threaded holes in a hub that accepts bolts are not blind holes and allow corrosion from the...
by dtmackey
Sun Jan 30, 2022 10:31 pm
Forum: REPAIRS and MODIFICATIONS
Topic: Trailer: Conversion to Torsion Spring Axle from Leaf Spring Axle
Replies: 17
Views: 4028

Re: Trailer: Conversion to Torsion Spring Axle from Leaf Spring Axle

I'm going to hold off any decisions until the spring thaw since we just received 22-inch of snow. I did just buy new alloy wheels and tired and upgrades from the 4.10-12 size to a 5.30-12 along with new galvanized hubs, but it's possible a new axles will come with hubs as well. One additional thing ...
by dtmackey
Fri Jan 21, 2022 2:45 pm
Forum: REPAIRS and MODIFICATIONS
Topic: Trailer: Conversion to Torsion Spring Axle from Leaf Spring Axle
Replies: 17
Views: 4028

Re: Trailer: Conversion to Torsion Spring Axle from Leaf Spring Axle

...I did purchased a new trailer for my 13 Dauntless in 2021 and opted for a torsion axle. The difference in ride quality over my old leaf-spring trailer for that boat is night and day; the torsion axle ride is quieter and smoother....The cost of the 14-16-foot Load-Rite trailer was around $1,800. ...
by dtmackey
Fri Jan 21, 2022 1:01 pm
Forum: The GAM
Topic: 9 Tender Cover Project
Replies: 7
Views: 1790

Re: 9 Tender Cover Project

Your canvas work looks great. Thanks for sharing.

Is that a walking foot sewing machine? I had one and regret selling it several years ago, was running out of room for everything. It was my Dad's and he did upholstery and canvas when he was in college.
by dtmackey
Fri Jan 21, 2022 12:32 pm
Forum: REPAIRS and MODIFICATIONS
Topic: Trailer: Conversion to Torsion Spring Axle from Leaf Spring Axle
Replies: 17
Views: 4028

Re: Trailer: Conversion to Torsion Spring Axle from Leaf Spring Axle

A torsen axle does not have a spring. Deflection is provided by the twisting of the axle bar inside a square sleeve lined with rubber compounds. Each wheel is independent. To tag onto what Phil posted, the rubber in the axle does a great job absorbing impact while providing wheel travel. Also havin...
by dtmackey
Fri Jan 21, 2022 12:28 pm
Forum: REPAIRS and MODIFICATIONS
Topic: Rebuilding Gear Case of 48SPL-Part 1
Replies: 46
Views: 13288

Re: Rebuilding Gear Case of 48SPL

Nice presentation of the steps. ASIDE: One thing I noted is the cleaning of the surfaces with an abrasive tool. Not that you would, but vapor blasting is one of the best ways to clean metal of oxidation while not harming the surface at all. I've always wanted one, but the $3,500 to over $5,000 price...
by dtmackey
Fri Jan 21, 2022 12:14 pm
Forum: REPAIRS and MODIFICATIONS
Topic: Trailer: Conversion to Torsion Spring Axle from Leaf Spring Axle
Replies: 17
Views: 4028

Re: Trailer: Conversion to Torsion Spring Axle from Leaf Spring Axle

D--my box-framed trailers have a torsion-spring axle. It has a plate that is attached to the frame using U-bolts. Isn't a torsion-spring axles sold with a plate or bracket included? torsionSpringAxle_.jpg Source: https://www.loadrite.com/trailer-parts/axle-assemblies-and-components/axle-assemblies-...
by dtmackey
Fri Jan 21, 2022 12:11 pm
Forum: REPAIRS and MODIFICATIONS
Topic: Trailer: Conversion to Torsion Spring Axle from Leaf Spring Axle
Replies: 17
Views: 4028

Re: Trailer: Conversion to Torsion Spring Axle from Leaf Spring Axle

jimh wrote:Is there only one spring for the whole axle?


Both sides (L&R).
by dtmackey
Fri Jan 21, 2022 12:10 pm
Forum: REPAIRS and MODIFICATIONS
Topic: Trailer: Conversion to Torsion Spring Axle from Leaf Spring Axle
Replies: 17
Views: 4028

Re: Trailer: Conversion to Torsion Spring Axle from Leaf Spring Axle

I am not familiar with the "slipper-type" leaf spring. Perhaps you can elaborate on that variety. Slipper spring is restrained on end with a bolt and the other with two metal tabs bent over that allow the spring to slip. This slip fit is loose and makes lots of noise over the simplest of ...
by dtmackey
Thu Jan 20, 2022 10:26 pm
Forum: REPAIRS and MODIFICATIONS
Topic: Trailer: Conversion to Torsion Spring Axle from Leaf Spring Axle
Replies: 17
Views: 4028

Trailer: Conversion to Torsion Spring Axle from Leaf Spring Axle

My 1986 15-footer is on an original Shoreline galvanized trailer. After I bought the boat, I went through the trailer; it's very solid and will last longer than me. The trailer has leaf springs. The springs are the slipper-type, and when going over a bump the trailer makes noises like it's coming ap...
by dtmackey
Wed Jan 12, 2022 5:54 pm
Forum: REPAIRS and MODIFICATIONS
Topic: Rebuilding Gear Case of 48SPL-Part 1
Replies: 46
Views: 13288

Re: Rebuilding Gear Case of 48SPL

Oldslowandugly wrote:Don't worry about applying too much as you will be removing 99% of it anyway.
It's almost as if you've seen me do drywall mudding.
by dtmackey
Wed Jan 05, 2022 10:50 pm
Forum: The GAM
Topic: New Experimental Graphene Anti Foul
Replies: 4
Views: 2591

Re: New Experimental Graphene Anti Foul

Over the past 30 years there has been many highly touted breakthrough anti fouling ideas and products and we are still using the same copper or tin based paints with some minor tweaks to formulation. Anyone remember the cayenne fad when people dumping that into bottom paint? If a paint was truly rev...
by dtmackey
Wed Jan 05, 2022 10:41 pm
Forum: REPAIRS and MODIFICATIONS
Topic: Rebuilding Gear Case of 48SPL-Part 1
Replies: 46
Views: 13288

Re: Rebuilding Gear Case of 48SPL

Did the lower unit need a rebuild or just new seals? I chuckle at the shop manuals and the tools needed to replace the most common failure - prop shaft seals. A simple trick to the expensive tools and removing the bearing carrier is to screw 2 - 3 drywall screws into the seal on the outer edge away ...
by dtmackey
Wed Jan 05, 2022 10:24 pm
Forum: The GAM
Topic: Experience with Specialty Marine Bimini Top
Replies: 6
Views: 2629

Re: Experience with Specialty Marine Bimini Top

Specialty Marine does not have a good reputation and has put out some shoddy product, however my experience on their Bimini top was positive and this was about eight years ago--a lot could have changed. I purchased this Bimini top for my 13-foot Boston Whaler to stay out of the sun. The hardware and...
by dtmackey
Mon Dec 13, 2021 11:45 am
Forum: The GAM
Topic: 2022 150 Montauk Performance; Use as Tender Towed by Yacht
Replies: 9
Views: 5076

Re: 2022 150 Montauk Performance; Use as Tender Towed by Yacht

150 Montauk looks good on paper, but when you really boil down the overall boat, I would go with an aluminum bottom RIB as the ride and performance would be better in a package that weighs far less. The Montauk 150 is nearly 1500lbs rigged with power, fuel and gear and that's very heavy. With a 60hp...
by dtmackey
Thu Dec 09, 2021 10:34 am
Forum: REPAIRS and MODIFICATIONS
Topic: Steering System Weight
Replies: 3
Views: 1918

Re: Steering System Weight

After looking at that engine, I'm not sure you can get to the weight you are looking for since that model Verado steering rams aren't that heavy and the pump for the joystick control isn't mounted on the transom, so can't be counted in the weight. I think you will still be 350-lbs too heavy.

D-
by dtmackey
Thu Dec 02, 2021 1:48 pm
Forum: REPAIRS and MODIFICATIONS
Topic: Steering System Weight
Replies: 3
Views: 1918

Re: Steering System Weight

Not enough information to provide an answer.

How is the boat configured now?

Multiple steering rams?

Power steering?

Does the boat have joystick control?

What are the current motors?

I'm not sure you'll get to the magic 420-lbs, but you will get closer, depending on the answers to the above.

D-
by dtmackey
Fri Nov 19, 2021 10:01 am
Forum: The GAM
Topic: Forum Service Interruption--November 17 - 19, 2021
Replies: 6
Views: 3179

Re: Forum Service Interruption--November 17 - 19, 2021

Glad to hear you're on the good side of the 3 challenges at home and "found the switch" to turn the forum back on. ;-)

D-
by dtmackey
Tue Nov 16, 2021 9:43 am
Forum: REPAIRS and MODIFICATIONS
Topic: 1988 Super Sport 15: Restoration / Restomod
Replies: 33
Views: 10808

Re: 1988 Super Sport 15: Restoration / Restomod

dtmackey, Regarding the New Hampshire lake, you guessed correctly ... it is Lake Winnipesaukee. We have a small camp situated within one of the quiet coves north of Moultonborough Bay. Your latest restoration is quite amazing. If you're ever up on the Big Lake with your Super Sport 15, be certain t...
by dtmackey
Mon Nov 15, 2021 11:33 am
Forum: The GAM
Topic: Super Sport 15 Trailer
Replies: 21
Views: 6734

Re: Super Sport 15 Trailer

Not shown in any of the illustrations above, tall PVC guide posts mounted at the extreme aft end of the trailer are very useful in loading the boat. The guides will prevent the stern of the boat from getting out of alignment with the trailer during loading, and this will greatly simplify the proces...
by dtmackey
Mon Nov 15, 2021 11:28 am
Forum: REPAIRS and MODIFICATIONS
Topic: 1988 Super Sport 15: Restoration / Restomod
Replies: 33
Views: 10808

Re: 1988 Super Sport 15: Restoration / Restomod

Nice to see another 15 Whaler restored. I'm happy to see you opted for the Yamaha over the Suzuki. While the Suzuki is a great motor, it's almost 100-lbs heavier than the Yamama. That weight increase will make a big difference on that hull in how low it sits in the stern and in the tendency for taki...
by dtmackey
Tue Nov 09, 2021 4:38 pm
Forum: REPAIRS and MODIFICATIONS
Topic: Fuel Tank: Removal without damage to Foam; Test PSI
Replies: 9
Views: 3386

Re: Fuel Tank: Removal without damage to Foam; Test PSI

The most common coating for tank preservation is coal tar epoxy. In fact, some tank builders offer that as part of tank fabrication. Bare aluminum will not last forever and depending on the environmnet and how wet the tank cavity becomes, corrosion will take place. What every you do, NEVER use rubbe...
by dtmackey
Mon Nov 08, 2021 2:03 pm
Forum: REPAIRS and MODIFICATIONS
Topic: Fuel Tank: Removal without damage to Foam; Test PSI
Replies: 9
Views: 3386

Re: Fuel Tank: Removal without damage to Foam; Test PSI

Test the fuel tank in place at the recommended 3-PSI or less. If you decide to remove the tank, there's the chance the foam adhered to the tank and will act like glue, holding it in place. Some people use a Sawzall with a 12-inch blade, others use a hand saw. Another quick way [to cut foam] is a pre...
by dtmackey
Mon Nov 08, 2021 12:55 pm
Forum: The GAM
Topic: Brunswick CEO Comments on CNBC re Boston Whaler
Replies: 7
Views: 3307

Re: Brunswick CEO Comments on CNBC re Boston Whaler

It's all paper. I am not looking forward to when the music stops. Couldn't agree more. The last time we saw the boat market crash is wasn't good for many. Some of the new boat owners are leverage so badly they can't get out from under the boat loan. While each brand takes a varying level of hit in ...
by dtmackey
Fri Oct 29, 2021 9:13 am
Forum: The GAM
Topic: 235 Conquest v. Eastern Sisu 22
Replies: 4
Views: 2316

Re: 235 Conquest v. Eastern Sisu 22

One of the bigger problems I see is the older boats used wood cores that over time absorb water through failed deck drains and poor sealing around motor mounting bolts and other things mounted to the deck and transom. The condition of the boat will be determined by the care received by the previous ...
by dtmackey
Thu Oct 28, 2021 11:10 am
Forum: REPAIRS and MODIFICATIONS
Topic: Fixing Bad Crazing
Replies: 5
Views: 2753

Re: Fixing Bad Crazing

Putting paint over crazing won't fix the unlying problem. Using high-build primers may minimize the visual appearance, but over time the crazing will come through the paint. There is no quick fix.

D-