'79 Formula 255 Liberator Update
 

We are now at the re-power stage. Tired 260's are being replaced by a pair of strong Vortec Roller Motors. I have made a serious decision to move up from Alpha/Merc No 1 drives to Bravo I's. The old 260's are out and the 2008 Bravo Transom assemblies complete with rams, cables, hoses and pumps are on the truck from Texas...should get them next week.

This old 'bird is about to get a serious kick in the ass!!

New Engines:
[IMG]http://i705.photobucket.com/albums/w...255vortec2.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://i705.photobucket.com/albums/w...355vortec3.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://i705.photobucket.com/albums/w...355vortec4.jpg[/IMG]


Old 260's coming out:
[IMG]http://i705.photobucket.com/albums/w.../EngineRR3.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://i705.photobucket.com/albums/w.../EngineRR1.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://i705.photobucket.com/albums/w.../EngineRR2.jpg[/IMG]

Dirty Bilge

[IMG]http://i705.photobucket.com/albums/w.../EngineRR4.jpg[/IMG]


Clean 33 year old bilge ready for Transom assembly removal and rigging....waiting on 2: Bravo Transom assemblies. This is the only boat I have owned that has a full gel coated bilge...made clean up a lot easier.

http://i705.photobucket.com/albums/w...9/DSC_0618.jpg

The Formula 255 Lib on New all American 10200 lb Twin Torsion Disc Brake Trailer.

http://i705.photobucket.com/albums/w...9/DSC_0615.jpg


Next is template drill of 2: additional holes for the Bravo Transom Assemblies, install same along with new trim pumps, bilge pump and plumbing, bilge blowers and plumbing.

2008 Bravo Transom Assemblies arrived this past week from Boatman22 in Texas...thanks Tom...they look NEW.

[IMG]http://i705.photobucket.com/albums/w...9/transom1.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://i705.photobucket.com/albums/w...9/transom2.jpg[/IMG]

Meanwhile...Engines are being set up with all of the brackets and accessories from the 260's that are worthy. Then we paint every thing. I am still engineering the exhaust and cooling. At this point we are leaning towards aluminum Hi Po manifolds through the Bravo Y pipes. I am still undecided on whether to pull raw water through hull or through the drives.

I am going to be seriously looking for a pair of Bravo I drives soon.

I spent time this weekend removing old things like bilge blowers and bilge pumps that are being replaced as well as drive trim pumps. I spent about $50 on zip ties and clips at Wards Marine Electric...just part of the deal. Once you get into one of these restoration projects you find yourself saying "might as well" a lot!!:evilb:

I can see it all coming together now. Cant wait to get this classic back in the water.
__________________

Looking good John!! Keep the pics and updates coming. I like the new trailer. Mine is still on the old EZ roller trailer. I will have to update it in the future for sure. How about some interier pics............Brad

quick question about the mounting of the motors i noticed you previously had lag bolts is this a concern and when do you need to step up to a stronger mount?is it speed or hp

Interesting that you mentioned that. I am designing a stainless stringer wrap (4) to bolt through from the sides. I am still thinking it through.

Your doing a great job love following your progress can`t wait to see those bolsters in it have been looking for a pair keep up the good work.

I'm excited about that milestone myself...the McLeod's are going to be the cherry on top for me. Thanks for you remarks...I follow the work of others also...kind of exciting to see these things come together.

Here is the current configuration Brad...realize I have the rear gutted now though.

[IMG]http://i705.photobucket.com/albums/w...r/DSC04972.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]http://i705.photobucket.com/albums/w...r/DSC04979.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]http://i705.photobucket.com/albums/w...r/DSC04974.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]http://i705.photobucket.com/albums/w...formula005.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]http://i705.photobucket.com/albums/w...formula006.jpg[/IMG]

The two fronts are being replaced by a pair of McLeod drop out bolsters from a '89 292. I am considering re-covering the cabin and cockpit seating in a neutral Foam Backed Ultra Leather with a lighter colored carpet and headliner.

The instrument panel is to be updated with new gauges and a GPS/Chart plotter. I am still engineering the sound system...toying with the idea of a 3KW Gen Set and A/C for the cabin. I am open to ideas and suggestions.

Looks good! I thought about recovering my cabin in that Ultra Leather too just to give it a more updated look. I did end up putting fibarglass sheet on the floor in the cuddy which pretty much matches the non skid in the cockpit. That way it is much easier to keep clean. As soon as Im completely done for this season I will put some pics up here. What is the best way to clean up the bilge? Mine isnt the gel but the rough glass finish. Also where were you thinking on putting the genset and A/C?

I used Purple Power Degreaser..ate it up.

As far as the Generator is concerned...there is a big space in my bilge forward of and between the engines that is adequate for a small 3KW unit. The area in the cabin behind the sink on my port side which is flipped from yours...I think yours is starboard from my memory...there is a lot of wasted space that is perfect for a self contained A/C unit.

Very cool updates. Looking forward to more!

I will get some Purple Power, thanks. Thats not a bad idea on the genset and A/C. There is a large closet behind the sink area.....hmmm sure would make it nice on those humid south Kentucky days/nights. How would you exhaust the 3KW unit to keep carbon monoxide out of the cabin? You got my wheels turnin....lol

I am thinking out the port or starboard side far enough above the water line. As you know a CO detector is a must. I had 2: on my 40' Sea Ray EC...even though it was diesel.

OK...made a final decision on the Raw Water Pump. I am using a pair of crank driven pumps taking suction through the drives. I considered using through hulls with sea cocks and strainers but since I have an inner liner in my bilge I would be looking at a bunch of work to get through both layers and seal it off properly.

http://www.michiganmotorz.com/images...IG_250_178.jpg

This will make a simple set up and will not interfere with the fuel pump or other accessories plus it will be easy to maintain.

I am dressing engines and swapping brackets now. I am going to need a few different cooling hoses since I am swapping from Log style exhaust manifolds to Center Riser type. I am also having another 'might as well" moment in considering Stainless pulleys for all my belt driven accessories...but will have to scrounge the Swap Shop for those. This item gets pricey with twin engines.:lolhit:

I still need to figure out a dip stick arrangement for the new engines.

The annual Dania Marine Flea Market is coming up soon so I might find some deals there.

The new engines are on stands and nearly ready to drop in. The old No 1 transom assemblies are out and I am making preparations to drill the 2: additional 9/16" holes at the top of the cut outs for the Bravo transom assemblies. I'm still in the bilge re-arranging things along with installing new Bilge Blowers, Bilge Pumps and associated hoses/wiring. I plan on putting some led lights in the bilge beneath the engines and indirect lighting along both sides.

I have moved into the cockpit and cabin and have started the fit up for the McLeod bolsters.The windshield, side vents and glasses are being custom made from 35% tinted tempered glass and may be ready next week. I have all the cockpit and cabin interior pieces/cushions in a marine upholstery shop being re covered and re foamed. I found a source for marine grade Cherry laminate for the cabin and enough late model Formula headliner material to replace my mess. Still working on stereo and GPS/electronics options ...but that will come soon enough. I have enough on my plate right now.

Stay tuned...

Hey John, I haven't been on this forum for more than a month, so it's neat to see the progress you're making. Those Bravos are gonna be awesome.

sprink, ya gonna run that exhaust thru the props? i bet she'd sound sweet with some thru-hulls

I have thought about it but if I do it I will incorporate a Corsa Captains Choice system or something similar. The noise Nazis down here are fierce. The Corsa system for twins will add about $2500 to the cost of this project so I got to find the $$$$ for it.

http://www.corsaperf.com/marineDefault.aspx

Sweet set up though.

I spent all day in the bilge...no glamour here LOL. I removed the old POS bilge pump and blower and associated hoses as well as both old style heavy cast trim pumps and hoses

It's amazing the amount of cobbled together shade tree wiring and rigging that finds it's way into a boat over 33 years. I discovered the original trim tab pump hanging in the center of the transom...one of the previous owners just left it there several years ago when a newer Bennett system was installed in another location.

The bilge on a 255 is huge with no engines in it...plenty of room to work. I'm 6'-2" and I can lay down in there front to rear as well as side to side!!

fixx
 

john,keep in mind that if you go through the transon you will need to raise the outlets i believe 6'' to clear the steering..you cant go below it if you instrall the ypipes..if you try to go any lower you will hit the curve in the transom under the lip..look at the pics i sent you over the summer,those will give you a idea whats involved..remember theirs also a liner,,so that means if i remember correwctly that the transom was like 4=5 inches thick..

Great suggestion...I have not thought about that but you are 100% correct. After looking at it closely I don't think I can use a set up like a Corsa because the steering will be in the way. So I'm at a point where I either go through hull above the steering or through the y-pipes. The transom at the "bump" is at least 4" if not more.

Now if I convert to external hydraulic steering....:poopoo:...naw...frig that. I think I would rather spend the $$$$ on a killer sound system.

Hey Sprink,
Are you selling your carbs off of the old motors? If so I would be really interested for my 350's.

Mike ...I might..depends on whether or not I sell them with the engines. i will put you at the front of the line.

How is your project coming?

OK...this weekend is huge for the 255. Got all new window frames and glass for windshield and sides, cabin door and all port lights. Also getting an original teak swim platform.Ordered this stuff from a donor boat in New Jersey on E Bay. I am going to Sarasota Friday to pick up a pair of completely re-built Bravo I's and last but not least...the annual Dania Marine Flea Market is at the Dania Jai Lai Fronton Thursday through Sunday. I've been going to this event for over 30 years and it is a HUGE event here in South Florida:evilb:

Dania is like Christmas Time for South Florida DIY boaters.

Way to go John -- go get 'em!!

I didnt realize the flea market is this weekend, I may take a ride down, what day are you going?

That would be so nice to be able to go to something like that. Made several trips to the knob creek machine gun shoot for my stamp collection supplies and parts, but nothing around here like that for boats.

If I planned a vacation to florida and my wife found out it was for a boat flee market, I think she might buy one to bury me at see in.

[QUOTE=rchevelle71;3640879]I didnt realize the flea market is this weekend, I may take a ride down, what day are you going?[/QUOTE

'here ya go 'chevelle http://www.daniamarinefleamarket.com/

I might go tomorrow afternoon if I can get free...or Saturday...I'll let you know.

[QUOTE=sprink58;3641054]Sounds good, but I probably wont be able to make it, unless it I go Sunday, working tomorrow and friday, gotta pull an engine on Ray's boat Sat morning, then the Delray St. paddy's day parade after noon. Probably better off staying home rather than spending $$:lolhit:

[QUOTE=rchevelle71;3641118]I hear you...I trying to get every thing together to put my engines in and I might just find what I need at a bargain. Good thing about it is you get to see a whole bunch of stuff at one time at great prices.

Got the Bravo I's
 

So I hooked up with Poker~N~Run aka David at his place over in Sarasota today and brought home the 2 Bravo I drives that he had. We met and talked for a while and I made a good contact.

All I need is one side water lower and my drive train is complete.:evilb:

I might have this rig in the water for testing in a few weeks.

Small Update
 

Finally got the old transom assemblies and Y pipes out of the boat today.

I was very pleased to see that there was no transom rot and every thing is dry.

I do have a technical question...will my existing steering cable work with an Alpha/Bravo steering ram?

yes, your existing steering cable will work...

That's the answer I was looking for...thanks.

Update...Bravo Transom Assemblies Installed
 

Got up this AM and decided today was the day.

[IMG]http://i705.photobucket.com/albums/w...9/DSC_0638.jpg[/IMG]

Prepared and cleaned up the transom cut outs where the old No. 1's had been

[IMG]http://i705.photobucket.com/albums/w...9/DSC_0641.jpg[/IMG]
http://i705.photobucket.com/albums/w...9/DSC_0640.jpg

Set the template...courtesy of Marc Berman at BAM

[IMG]http://i705.photobucket.com/albums/w...9/DSC_0642.jpg[/IMG]

I used this drill guide that I picked up at Harbour Freight for $20. Call me an engineering nerd...I wanted the angle for the 2: new top holes to be correct.

[IMG]http://i705.photobucket.com/albums/w...9/DSC_0644.jpg[/IMG]
http://i705.photobucket.com/albums/w...9/DSC_0643.jpg

Got port side mounted.

[IMG]http://i705.photobucket.com/albums/w...9/DSC_0645.jpg[/IMG]

Now starboard.

[IMG]http://i705.photobucket.com/albums/w...9/DSC_0646.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://i705.photobucket.com/albums/w...9/DSC_0647.jpg[/IMG]

I wonder how many Formula 255 Liberators have Bravo Set Ups? Looks very serious compared to No 1/Alpha...very serious.:evilb:

This little project is moving right along folks....stay tuned for steering ram, Bravo couplers and bell housings....next thing you know it will time to feed the bilge a pair of Vortecs:evilb:

nice job keep up the good work

Looks great John -- now the outdrives aren't dwarfed by that huge transom. It's looking like a factory setup. I saw some yellow around the holes -- was that the original gelcoat color?

Yep...it was a Yellow 'Bird.

I set these Bravo TA's next to the originals for comparison...the difference is dramatic to say the least...in as much as the comparison of the Alpha and Bravo drives.

I have to say...this isn't the hardest thing I have ever done but an extra set of hands would have been a big help. If you don't have significant upper body strength...don't attempt this without help or a transmission jack to raise the TA into place. It's an arm load to say the least.

As I said previously...putting things in as opposed to removing them is a lot more fun.:evilb:

glad to see what your doing to your 255, kinda jealous sprinks. i hope to get mine back in the water this year. i had the portside drive fail on me last 4th O july. keep up the good work. can't wait to hear on here how it does WOT on the water! should youtube a video of that.

Regarding a video
 

Thanks for your thoughts...hopefully we can all take some info from this one.

I have a few friends I work with that manage our Video/CCTV division that have mentioned doing something...stay tuned...got a bit to go yet.:evilb:

Nice swim platform :lolhit: gotta say the transom looks waaaay better. And definitely looks factory! Keep it up.