Ancient Chinese secret. Oh oh oh I know the answer....

yes, i did contact them, and I will be sending a dash cut out template of the 5212 for their engineer dept to look at.
Also, thanks DR for the great deal on the Garmin!

have you considered putting 2 shifters on either side of the throttles??
great project...

yes I did, but decided to just keep the set up the same as original. Why?

just easier handling..i would think...you only need 2 engines around the docks..so you would only be using the "sticks" on the outside..

i was glad to receive back the mid-section parts for the remaining two merc 2.5 outboards that I'd sent away to a company called House of Powder. They bead blasted and powder coated the steering arm, adapter plate, and drive shaft/exhaust housing. They did a great job!

that sounds like a good idea too, that whole docking thing can be stressful enough without fiddling with the sticks

Awesome project! I would love to see your madien voyage/shake down run. I have been wanting to get a larger Skater but hate to give up my outboards. Looks like your proving you can have both and not sacrifice performance. It would be really cool if someone could rig a 32 or 36 with a pair of the Seven outboards. Sure would save a lot of rigging! Might even break even buying the beast..

If you make it to LOTO 2012 we wilk be there and happy to help youin any way.

Sam

Thanks Sam! I love the outboards too. For many years after giving up my triple outboard spectre, I missed it and would be constantly checking the OSO classifieds. I knew that without a doubt, Skater made the best cat but in the past the price was prohibitive for me. I was fortunate to find this 36 with the rare outboard setup and rich racing history. There's been alot of really good people involved in this project, and I appreciate everyones interest and support on OSO.

The economy sucks but the silver lining is you can find a deal on a Skater if you have cash. Only problem is there are fewer boats running to go play with.

When I bought my 28 I used my wifes excuse "but honey think of the money I'm saving you!"