Where is the wood on a 1971 20' Seafari?

[chrisp0410]

Hello folks, my first post although I've been a ClassicSeaCraft.com stalker for a while. I'll start with my question and then give the background of my project. On a 20 foot 1971 Seacraft Seafari I/O, what are the locations that wood was used in the original construction? I know the transom has wood but what about the deck, stringers, etc.? Now the background on why I'm asking...

A relative of mine has a 20 foot 1971 Seafari I/O that has been sitting somewhat exposed for about 8 years. I say somewhat exposed as it was winterized before being put up, drain plugs pulled, covered with a tarp, etc. Oh, it has been on its trailer for the 8 years as well. Last year, a branch fell off a tree, tore the tarp and blew out the side windshield letting in the elements. I haven't made the trek to see it in person yet but assume its full of leaves, vermin, mold, etc.

So this is why I need to know where the wood is. I'm expecting to have to redo the transom, refurbish the engine and sterndrive, new waterpump, batteries, probably all new electrical and electronics, interior vinyl, possibly teak work, new side windshield and gel coat/paint. And I'm sure the trailer will need springs, axles, tires, wiring and a thorough scrubbing.

Let me ask you, do you think this boat is worth it?

Thanks for reading, this is a great forum!

Chrisp0410

[htillman]

Yes its worth it, I did the same to a 23 Sceptre a couple years ago, it had a broken side window frame. You will find wood in the deck, gunnels, bulkheads and foredeck. There was also a piece of wood along the middle of the boat in the hull.

[McGillicuddy]

Go make her yours Chris...Wood is in keelson, and floor and front of cuddy top are cored with balsa. Transom is the usual suspect. It's certainly worth saving. Get some pics up next time you go visit. Good luck. Seafaris are cool.
ps there are two blocks of wood wrapped in glass between the deck and hull which support the thru hull scuppers- you can almost count on needing to correct any seeping between the tube and the hull...lots of info on that here...do a scupper search...

Go for it! Also - how about filling in the rest of your profile so we know something about you and where you are from. Makes things a lot more interesting!

[Bushwacker]

Check out the Boating magazine article on the Seafari in the literature section. It gives a very detailed description of the construction, including the glass layup schedule. BTW, the 4 stringers (up thru 72) are all glass, installed about halfway thru the layup.

[chrisp0410]

Thanks guys! I appreciate it. I also checked out the article in the literature section, very informative. I should be going to look at it in a few weeks when the weather gets a little nicer and I can be sure everything is thawed out. I hope it all works out as I love the idea of boating from my homeport of Wethersfield Cove in Wethersfield, CT on the Connecticut River down through Old Saybrook to Long Island Sound and parts beyond. Having the cuddy will be nice for long days out should I need to overnight it in a pinch. I have a bunch of good memories on that boat.

Chrisp0410