posted 08-02-2014 07:18 PM ET (US)        

I got three different estimates for a new one, and, after careful consideration, chose Carr Enterprises out of the Tampa, Florida area. Two of the estimates were close in price, Carr and FMT, but I liked Carr's build time better. http://www.mycarrenterprise.com A third estimate was about double the other two.

The Carr fellow I dealt with, a Roland Rochette; he was extremely courteous, knowledgeable, and his work and welds are fantastic--like artwork. I give him Five-stars out of five for this order, build, and ship.

I installed the tank yesterday in the [fuel tank cavity molded in the hull], and it fit perfectly. I installed the three tie-down aluminum anchor straps or bars, then mixed two-part closed-cell marine foam, and poured it in around the edges. I used a half-gallon of mixture, and it was enough to go all the way around, but didn't fill to the top edge, so I'll be ordering more foam to complete the job. I want the foam to reach to the top edges. All the hoses and bonding wires are connected, and she looks like new money. Will be installing the floor, console, and leaning post next weekend. Pretty cool mojo.

Rebuilding the trailer, too, all new stuff, then new wiring, and T-Top installation. Then will start looking seriously at new motors, probably a 200-HP which is what it came with.