Jet Sled version 2
Clay loading up a rod after a successful first run
A little while ago I bought a project and I'm about to start the process again. Last time I had a lot of requests to write a build report and not having the platform to do so I used FB which was me just posting a lot of pictures with out much reporting or content. This time around I plan to use this site and as this begins to take shape write about it.
So…the last project was a Jon or John boat with an outboard jet drive. From now on I’m just going to refer to these boats as Jet-Sleds. My first Jet-Sled (V1) was a riveted Alumacraft 1432 (14 feet long and 32” on the bottom) with an old Evinrude 25 hp.
Somewhere on I-35 Fueling up on a Double Quarter pounder
I really was Just buying the engine for another boat so I really didn’t care if the boat leaked (it did) or what condition it was in (rough). If I could get it for the right price (I did) the engine wouldn't even need to run (it didn’t). I had done enough research and talked to mechanics, friends and who ever would listen. We were confidant that if it didn't run 800 bucks would fix that (it did). The boat was reborn, used for a while with friends then sold when I ruptured my Achilles tendon, which was fine, I wasn’t in love with the boat. She was a handful on the water and in no way conducive to guiding. She did however run like a scalded dog and had a unique look. I plan to fix the “handful” problem with waterline and will most likely shoot for the same look and outfit the V2 Jet-sled in the same manner.
I really enjoyed the last project and tolerated (very well I must say) all the “dude, when ya gonna be done so "WE" can go fish in it” or “dude, your OCD”. This project will most likely take longer. Jet-sled V1 came as a package deal…Boat, Motor and trailer, at present time I have none of what I need accept a clearer understanding of what worked and what didn’t, that and a line on a 40/30 Yamadog.
Poppy supervising while I work, She's 18 months now so this wont work.
Stay tuned sports fans I’m looking forward to this project and sharing it on this web sites blog
Enjoy, tight lines and shallow running boats.
Winston