Since picking up a free 1970s tri-hull boat last year, I’ve been struggling with getting it running and usable. As with many of my older engines, this was a never-ending process of fighting carburetors, timing, ignition, etc. The old outboard motor took so much time and attention that I never got around to doing any interesting mods on the boat, like building a cabin or installing fun gadgets.
Well, I finally gave up and got a NEW boat! And by new, er, I mean, even older! This one is a 1962 Dorsett Catalina, with a (supposedly more modern) V8 engine and a jet drive! This one has had it’s share of repairs and upgrades as well, but at least it runs and I’ve actually gotten it to go fast! See the video above for “Part 1” of the jet boat project, or skip to the one below for actual “going fast” footage (starts around 8min in).
Boat season is winding down a bit in Minnesota as we get into fall, but there are a lot of future projects (and hopefully, trips!) planned for this boat!
Saveitforparts 