Someone get off their wallet

[kmoose]

Originally Posted by Bigshrimpin

seems cheap. I wonder what revenues are for the biz?

That is the big question when selling a business and a plethora of other details. Are there any active patents?

Most shops that would be interested in building these already have a shop and business but the molds and materials remaining have tangible value to a working glass shop. I hate to see the end of such a legacy product but the target market is shrinking and we all want to retire someday. Glad I got my double when I did as it has certainly added equity to my old sled.

[Vezo, Part II]

I agree that you have added equity to your ride Ken, especially when they are no longer available. I have very little knowledge of brackets and brackets that provide flotation, above the basics. A big question for me would be, how many transoms would this mold fit? I certainly would not want to invest that kind of money for something that would only fit perspective buyers who eventually stumble upon this site, or worse, future plugs from the classics.

Gives me a greater appreciation for the $3500 investment, as well as the mold I was able to secure with the help of member Rick (RCKnight?) and his brother Steve.

I really hope someone steps up to the plate here. I have enough experience to know that the chainsaw scenario sickens me. 19 good years to a dumpster? I have very little personal use for the mold I received but am more than happy to have it stored. There HAS to be other options.!. Anyone? Buehler?

[DonV]

Here's the problem as I see it. Just go on ebay and search outboard brackets. For the average customer money talks. Even a cheap bastard like me would spend the extra for the Hermco, but how many others would?

[thehermit]

Still think there are plenty of boat owners that will be interested in this type of bracket.

[Snookerd]

I have a possible investor near Don. I will try to get ahold of Don this week.

[Vezo, Part II]

I may have had a drink or two but I’m serious about these molds. I’m willing to pony up if a serious partner comes forward. I feel that they have to be saved. How big can they be? I do not have the storage for all of the additional materials right now.

I have the means and trailers to make it happen this weekend! Anyone else in? I need some measurements for the molds. I just cannot see this mans accomplishments of 19 years go to chainsaws and dumpsters. It’s driving me NUTS!!! I’m ready to get on the road ASAP. Anyone?

Going back to CL ad for any additional info. Come on boys! No?

[kmoose]

Originally Posted by DonV

Here's the problem as I see it. Just go on ebay and search outboard brackets. For the average customer money talks. Even a cheap bastard like me would spend the extra for the Hermco, but how many others would?

That is just one of the problems. You also have to consider the evolution of Euro transoms that have negated the use of brackets in more modern boats reducing the demand.

Don's brackets are special. They are hand crafted from the same material boats are made of and have a much different feel than other mass produced metal brackets. Once bolted on they become part of the boat as a whole. They are not cold and sharp but smooth and balanced against the rest of the hull. If they go away it will be loss to the restore and refit market that seems to be gaining popularity but is that demand enough to keep this legacy alive? I hope so but it will take the right person/s to make it happen.

[Topflitegraphics]

Just looked through his website gallery, darn nice work. Shame it has come down to this for him.

[Blackfin26]

I believe he also has a bracket mold for the Hiliner 222's? This will make a great side business for someone!

[Rybones]

I'm an easy 3hr drive away from Jensen Beach and Hermco and willing to help move stuff to a storage unit or place to keep as needed until the braintrust here can come up with a solution to keep this work alive in whatever form. I have a pickup and can probably get a trailer if needed plus I have sometime this week. Let me know what I can do to help.