I have a 1986 16’ Malibu side console. Love the boat and the hull. I’ve had this boat since I was 16. I have a new(er) 50HP Yamaha and aluminum trailer. Is there any way that it is cost effective to re-do the interior of the boat? I’m talking about tearing everything out (livewell, dry storage, front deck, comsole) and having everything redone to my specs. I know I can probably get a new hull or a used hull (that the 50 can still push) for less than $10K, but it won’t be the same boat. The old girl is getting a little soft, and I’d like to breathe some new life into her so that my kids can enjoy the same boat that I did growing up. Any insight and/or advice is appreciated.
Only way it’s remotely cost effective is to do it yourself.
Plenty of old “build threads” on this site, just look em up.
I did something similar to what you are wanting to do, I had an old Glassmaster bass boat and we gutted the boat and replaced the floor and forward deck, removed the livewell and rear deck and then moved the side console to the rear of the boat. In effect we converted it into a skiff.
Only had a limited amount of money in supplies but a bunch of hours of labor were invovled.
218WA Sailfish
The "Penn"sion Plan
Be careful, It easy to bite off more than you can chew! Have seen to many people give up on such a project. I’ve done quite a few my self and the take much more time than estimated. Don’t set a deadline and don"t get in a hurry and things will work out. Its always better to have a working boat while working on the second one!
I have almost the exact same boat as yours. I did the same thing. I had some soft spots and ended up pulling the entire deck. Rebuilt it to my liking and never looked back. It did take me a while due to work, weather, commitments, etc. But well worth it in the end. The boat is now stronger, more useable, and looks a boatload better. Ask Chris V, he’s seen it. PM me if you want some advice on that particular boat rebuild. I have a ton of progress pictures I can share with you. Good luck!
j
17 Malibu CC
88 'rude
Boy you cant beat that offer, jump on it!
I know you are attached but maybe its time to let her go. Buy yourself a good used hull like a 15 scout or key west. Create new memories with your kids by taking them fishing instead of working on an old hull. You will spend more money then the boat will ever be worth. You can pick up a used 15 foot for less then 3k.
Scout 185
I know you are attached but maybe its time to let her go. Buy yourself a good used hull like a 15 scout or key west. Create new memories with your kids by taking them fishing instead of working on an old hull. You will spend more money then the boat will ever be worth. You can pick up a used 15 foot for less then 3k.
Scout 185
Those Malibus are fun little boats. I did a bit of a rehab on a 13’3 Malibu Stinger from 1976.