In the middle of dealing with a nightmare, what has become a partial restoration (at my choosing), now year long transom repair project and completely understand why owners sell prior to re-rigging.

I'm absolutely disgusted with the "professionals" I hired to carry out the work. Some would say because I only asked 5 references and not 10 I'm to blame but it literally comes down to unprofessionalism on their part. Tens of thousands of dollars in, plus collateral damage which I ate and will seek to recover in small claims court; now the mechanic in possession of my driveline has ghosted for two weeks when I asked for an estimated date to re-rig.

I see why others "just want it to end" and post recently refreshed unassembled boats and their uninstalled drivelines for sale now!

Some "professionals" really got you by the balls when they have your boat or your parts, AND your money. What are you gonna do?

Getting rid of the project is a way to stop the bleeding for some, or, get rid of the bad vibes and the worry about a job that was not done as well as was promised.

been there too

Biggest part of the problem is so many people just aren’t honest. Like glass Dave says whatever you think needs to be replaced you can nearly double it when it’s said and done. That I understand when it comes to moisture and rot. Almost like buying any used boat I think it’s a good idea to figure in an addition 7k for misc engine-drive-rot etc. If you get lucky then party on.

Hopefully everything starts to go better for you.

Over the years I’ve decided that even with my limited time and knowledge, it was faster and less hassle to learn how to do it myself. Either way it takes forever, but at least I have control. Plus you learn new skills.


edit… and have an excuse to build shops and buy lots of tools lol

I hear everyone, unfortunately I don't have the means to pull engines etc., nor do I want to attempt to align engines, reconstruct a transom etc. It hasn't really been add-ons but rather rework, undue time to complete work, collateral damage, denial of it and refusal to repair. In 3 weeks I've been without the boat for 1 year to have the transom replaced, one 4' stringer and cabin headliner.

Been there done that…multiple times and different people…

Yea I would never hand over all the he leverage. They should never have all your parts your boat and money. Deposits and written agreements are key. Especially if it is indeed all your parts and equipment on top of it. Not that it helps in every situation but you shouldn't be leaving your rear end out on the line.

Unfortunately you really need to have multiple boats so that you don't miss the season and have other things to distract yourself. I have been down this road soooo many times now. I have a 10 year project that I am still chasing but it doesn't eat me up because I am still out having the time of my life in other ones. It all cost double what you think and takes 3 to 4 times as long as you expect.

Joe

YEAH I agree why do we do this to ourselves, but as they say we all learn that people are not who they say they are the hard way. I remember restoring my 67 mustang there was this guy great work blah, blah............. yet he took half the money up front and then 3 weeks later closed up shop and took my engine with him.