New member iso 1st Sea Craft

thunder · #1 03-30-2009, 02:42 PM

I have been watching this site and others for some time now and after many years of boating / fishing etc I would like to try the Sea Craft hull for a while. I believe the 23' CC to be the best choice for me as I trailer the boat to different areas depending on the bite and prefer offshore. I have had experience with outboard and I/O power systems and am familiar with the pro's & con's of both. I am looking for advice on the boat lengths and power options for an optimum choice in my first Sea Craft. The 23' CC with a straight inboard 350 or 454 / 496 / 502 etc seems like the best bet for me. Diesels are too expensive for my taste. But I see so many people opting for the $2500.00 dollar bracket and $18K - 23K outboards that I wonder if that is the best option although I would do it on the cheap with used gear. What is the general consensus on this subject. I guess I should target the 70's - early 80's hulls. How much if any wood is in the early hulls what are the weak areas I should be looking for, other than the obvious soft spots in the floor.

Fr. Frank · #2 03-30-2009, 05:26 PM

My 2 cents. If you're going more than 30 miles offshore, have a spare motor. Either rig twins, or have a kicker motor that will faithfully push you the however many miles offshore you plam on going.

I confess I am partial to outboards for boats under 30'. The new four-strokes and the Etec and Optimax motors are quiet and reliable, and very fuel efficient compared to motors of just 8-10 years ago. I personally am waiting for Mercury to truly introduce and market their diesel 2-stroke Optimax currently in testing. Rumor calls for a 90hp 3 cylinder and 175 hp 5 cylinder versions at first. These will be based upon the current mil-spec multi-fuel motors made for the military.

On the other hand, Maritime Engineering is due to release their 3 liter common rail 4 cylinder diesel outboards in 175, 225, and 300 hp versions next month. Weight is 775 lbs, and it uses the Mercruiser Bravo torpedo, props and gearset.

thunder · #3 03-30-2009, 09:28 PM

you are right about twins. they can be invaluable in the event of simutaneous mechanical failure and inclement weather. thanks for your $00.02.

McGillicuddy · #4 03-30-2009, 11:13 PM

Wet transoms are common in the SeaCrafts. Any probably every other make (but we don't know about other makes 'cause no one bothers to rebuild them)

. Brass scupper and drain tubes may need to be replaced (often a source of water coming in). Gunwale caps may need to be re-sealed and riveted or re connected with machine screw and nylock nuts.

You sound like you might be thrilled with a 23' Savage. I believe the Savage is fairly rare but I think a couple of guys have converted their Sceptres into Savages...Good luck.

thunder · #5 03-31-2009, 08:45 AM

I need schooling on the models. What is the "savage" and is the Scepter always a cuddy? Is there more than one model in the CC's. Also I see alot of different lengths being advertised, 25', 24'8", 23', 21', 20' etc../ I assume some may be using model designations and others actual measurements. Is there a website that lists models and spec's of the early models?

BigLew · #6 03-31-2009, 09:47 AM

Try some of these.

27’ Center Console/Pilothouse – a project

http://www.classicseacraft.com/forum...part=all&vc=1]

http://www.classicseacraft.com/forum/showflat.php?Cat=&Number=37689&page=&view=&sb=5&o= &fpart=all&vc=1[/url]

23’ Savage

http://www.classicseacraft.com/forum...=52556&Forum=]

There might be a 27’ Savage model, too.

Another starting point

http://moeslyseacraft.com/Brochures.aspx]

http://moeslyseacraft.com/Brochures.aspx[/url]

Good luck and there is more if you look around. I'm sure others will chime in as well,

Rich · #7 03-31-2009, 10:50 AM

http://www.classicseacraft.com/specifications.htm

The 23 straight inboards are rare, difficult to find. If you find one in good shape its a great option.

BillPutney · #8 03-31-2009, 11:14 AM

Deeep Thought you are in luck ! I live 3 miles outside of Wilson. I have a '78 23 CC and you are more than welcome to come over and check it out.My name is Bill Putney and you can reach me at 252-245-4487.

BillPutney · #9 03-31-2009, 11:18 AM

My nephew has a '76 20 CC that is immaculate that he would like to sell .It has been completely renovated and is in Wilmington .Custom cover , the works .

MasterBaiter · #10 03-31-2009, 12:26 PM

Good decision on a Sea Craft. As far as choices; I guess it depends on what you want it to do - AND who you ask. I chose the inboard for fuel economy, ease of maintainence, cheaper to re-power etc.

Last fall there were 2 for sale, a diesel in Maryland and a gas in Florida. I can look to see if they are still for sale if you are interested. If you are looking for a project - there was that one on Ebay from Tx.....