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This project is coming along slowly as I am working on other projects at the same time. I am ready to take the motor off, and plan to do this by throwing a come-along over a huge beam in the boat shed, the Yamaha has a lifting bolt already installed. Once I get it off it will be put on a stand made on top of a strong pallet I can move around with a fork lift.

I'm still thinking about the fuel tank situation, and how to deal with the non-skid. I think I will just mask the non-skid off and gelcoat the rest of the boat and keep the original non-skid which is not very toothy at this point. I guess I am going to keep the original console instead of going custom, the boxy lines go well with my new acquisition below.

One of the projects slowing me down is due to SWMBO requesting me to get another tow vehicle instead of using the family SUV (and getting it dirty.) So I've been looking for a cargo van to turn into a weekend camper/toy hauler and finally found one a few days ago that will make a good project and it was also cheap.

1987 Ford Econoline e250 in running condition with 184K miles. $900. With a little TLC it will be perfect for dragging the Whaler up and down the east coast on fishing and boating adventures. By a little TLC I mean dent and rust removal, upgraded seats, complete redo of the interior with beds along the side that fold up allowing a motorcycle to be carried in the cargo area, tuneup, solar panel/inverter, 12V fridge, new tires, new paint etc. The paint will match the Whaler of course. When I get done I will have $4000 without labor in a van still worth only $1500 ha.

With this van, maybe I should name the boat "Free Candy."