Posted by nvaccaro on 12/14/08 - 11:56 AM
#1
Happy Holidays, Whaler owners.
I have been a member for about a year now. This site is fabulous and inspires me to do little bonus projects on my Whaler.
I have a 1981 17ft. Striper model. The boat has been great and has provided for some great weekends with the family. Recently, I have run into some problems.
First off, I'm shopping for a rebuilt 90hp outboard. I bought my Whaler used with an old outboard that has now died and is beyond repair. The only problem I have discovered with the boat itself is that the console is falling apart. The previous owner neglected the boat.
Anyway, the Striper model is a side console boat. It appears to be the same boat as the Montauk, except for the consoles being placed differently. I'm thinking that while I shop for a motor, I should do something about the console. I'm thinking of building a new console and setting the boat up like a Montauk.
Is this in poor taste in regards to Whaler authenticity? Should I just go back with a side mount console?
My other question is in regards to the Montauk console setup. Is the steering wheel placed in a position for standing while driving? Or do you sit in a Montauk and drive?
The Striper is a "sit at" type console. I'm 6'3'' so it gets uncomfortable while driving the boat long distances, since I have to hunch forward. If I go with the side console, I will definetly lift it so I don't have to hunch forward.
I would welcome any insight from you guys. I have to say that I have been proud to own a Whaler and can honestly say that I wouldn't own any other type of boat.
Thanks guys.
Posted by kamie on 12/14/08 - 12:42 PM
#2
Before you tear it all apart, take some photo's since there are none of the Striper in the models section. The one key to making the switch is does your hull have the rigging tunnel down the center of the boat? If it does than the switch is as easy as getting a console and bolting it to the floor.
You can stand or sit to drive a Montauk. It has the same console as the 18 Outrage. I sit in flat water and stand for anything over a foot.
Posted by nvaccaro on 12/14/08 - 1:16 PM
#3
Kamie:
Thanks for the reply. The striper does have the rigging tunnel down the center, just like the Montauk. I was actually thinking that I needed pictures of the striper to post on the website.
The only alteration I would need to make is to drill a hole in the floor above the rigging tunnel for a fuel line if I wanted the fuel tank under the pilot's seat. Currently they are in the rear of the boat and take up "moving around" room.