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Hello everyone, I'm new to owning a Whaler and new to the site. I've just come into possession of a 1971, 17 foot Boston Whaler. I'm not sure of the model, It has the wooden center console, the seat has been replaced with an ice chest with backrest. There is not evidence that it had bottom paint. The boat came with an Evenrude 115HP Starflite motor, I was able to verify that it a 1971 model from the tag, and what appears to be the Evinrude push button, for tilt and trim with throttle lever. The outer hull is white, with white bumper rail protector, the interior is blue, it has some small nicks and chips in the gel coat, but otherwise it looks to be very sound. The console is very weathered and I'm not sure if I can save it, plus they have cut and drilled numerous holes in the top and front. The motor, I was told ran, until they tried to replace the impeller and could not get the tubes lined back up right. Which they attempted spring of this year. The seller is going through a divorce and didn't purse the repair any further. I want to restore the boat back to original as much as I can, however, I don't want to put the motor and controls back on, would like to go to a newer 4 stroke, because of the limitations we have in California as to what rivers and lakes 2 strokes can be on. I would think the motor and controller would be useful to someone, wanting to have everything match on an original restoration, but not quite sure where to post. I will appreciate any comments and I know I will have many more questions for you all. As I get more familiar with the site I will try to post pics to share what I have. Thanks again
I believe upgrading to a 4 stroke is a wise idea. If you're taking friends and family out, why risk endangering everyone with a breakdown?
Even though the original console is weathered and has holes, you'd be surprised how well it could possibly look refinished. If that's the direction you want to go, a new matching mahogany pilot seat is available from the sponsors of this site.
Those old hulls also look great with new fiberglass interiors as well.
You don't need a 4 stroke anywhere in California....
Don't group old 2 stroke technology with the newer 2 stroke technology.
New 2 stroke motors are just as quiet, clean burning, etc....
California allows CARB 3 rated motors on the restricted waterways and this include both 2 strokes and 4 strokes..... As long as the motor is the newer clean technology...
Thanks for the information, that's good to know. That opens my options greatly for upgrading the motor. Any ideas as to where I might sell the 1971 motor and controls, as I mentioned not sure if it runs, but must be good for parts.
Purchasing a new engine for the 17 I would go for the 90, If you go with the 70 by the time you load your gear and other stuff the boat will feel to slow, the 90 is the way to go.......
I owned a Montauk for 15 years with an Evinrude 70 on it...
Only a couple of times I wished I had a 90 and that was smooth water only...
Many, Many people have 70 hp on their 16/17 models and like the performance.
If I purchased another Montauk I would want either engine on it I listed above in post #5.
If a person water skis a lot then the 90 might be a better choice although I skied behind mine without any problems but I am not a professional water skier by any means....
