Splashed the 72 Seafari - what I learned...

[McGillicuddy]

Finally spashed the Seafari.

I was apprehensive, but came out pleased. Never rode a SeaCraft before.

Gps says I got 15 mi on a 6 gal tank. Ran it in the bay doing laps 'til I burned thru the fuel. Topped out @ 33mph by GPS @ 4400 rpms.

Motor is an 83 Merc 115 I-6. Felt effortless, but I think I should be able to turn more rpms right? I thought I would get 5500 rpm or better but with the hammer down all I got was the 4400.

Rode well, if squirrely at times, in the wind chop - front end seemed to slide a bit running 33mph into the chop. Took a little water to the face and cap flew off but
not bad considering the wind chop. Trim tabs are definitely moving up on the shopping list.

Load was pretty light and I really don't know how much gas was in the tank but the ancient gas performed as well as the fresh for the 10 mi I ran on it...

Scuppers definitely let in a lot of water, certainly more than I expected. So that will need to be addressed, and the vortex system will also have to be employed. Steering (Rideglide) did not turn to port completely and kind of freaked me out at first as I had no control in the ramp basin. Changed the position of the pinion bolt (that's when I noticed the failings of the through hull scuppers)and went for it.

Trailer towed well, but needs some work. T-100 pulled it up a pretty steep ramp which I was concerned about.

Fishing partner was impressed by its rise to plane and described it as "nimble" for a 20' Oh yeah, he thought it rode nice...

Took it outside for a few runs into the choppy swell and it rode much better @ 25 knots than at 18-20 knots.

Overall I was pleased. Need to address the scuppers, steering and the balance of the originalrestoration list, but at least I'm confident it floats and runs.

Definitely needs a bow roller/pulpit. The anchoring setup is useless. Also if any one has some old Marinium cleats they aren't going to use I'd love to hear from you-lets make a deal...
Any feedback on the rpms? Propping, rigging?

--McGill