Hey all, I'm in need of words of wisdom!

Been going through some not so cool things in life, and recently decided to escape reality by acting on a life long dream to get out on the water.

I recently picked up an 18' marlin for dirt cheap. It was for good reason too, as the transom, stringers, and floor were toast. The cap and hull are also split. Being in graduate school, I hadn't had much time to get to business on the needed fiberglass work, so i spent what little free time I had perusing CL and ended up stumbling across a 19' Rogers bonneville. The rogers has more components, good stringers and transom, BUT has external damage, and the cap/hull are split too....

I'm really wanting to hit the water this summer in the rogers, but I understand how close it is and kinda understand how long it will take to do the following:

Fix fiberglass and cap hull
Paint
Go through engine and pump
Build new fuel tanks
Build new interior

What do you guys think I should do, go for it, or find a floating hull?!

For what it's worth, I worked as a fabricator through school, and am an engineer (hold the jokes haha) this isn't my first rodeo, but it's my first boat!

Also, I'm in Salem,OR but will be headed to Gorman,CA in a couple weeks if anyone has something I might need!

I hear ya. I've definitely been looking. These boats don't seem to pop up in masses up here, so Pickens have been slim. Sometimes prices are whack or just out of budget.

I picked the projects up so I can be productive towards hitting the water no matter what, instead of sitting and waiting and ending up with nothing!

Yeah here and there. Haven't really figured out the areas to look down there though.

The Rogers TR has a lot of potential, but it's going to be a hell of a project. You'd be money ahead by finding something more complete and less damaged. The deals are out there and a drive down to CA might be a good option considering the time and money you would have wrapped up in that Rogers.




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I agree with this. I'd take the money you're going to be spending on the rebuild (which is going to be a lot!!!) and find a nice turn key boat that will get you out on the water.

I agree with the boys. I got a project boat a couple years ago with the intention of  having it done last year. I'm close, but still haven't had it in the water yet. Available time has been short, and life has been busy. Thankfully, between my friend/business partner and I, we have 6 boats, so I have options. Keep looking for a turn key, don't hedge your bets on the project. Lol.


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http://www.socaljetboats.com/index.php?topic=28725

Might be just what your looking for. Good luck


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Hey all, quick update.

Marlin is gone.

Rogers is stripped and I'm slowly working my way to glassing it back together. Contemplating capping it.

I took everyone's advice and found a turn key boat. Picked up a '71 kona. There are a couple goofey things on it, but it fit the requirements! Going to get it on the water this week hopefully, and do some tweaking.

Thanks to all for the advice, and especially to the ones keeping their eye out for me!!

Looks good glad you finally were able to get something out there and enjoy it 👍

1977 Challenger

Thanks man! It's been fun so far. I do however understand why these are river boats now

How's the challenger been this season?

Been a great season so far no issues I don't use ours on the river a whole lot either more on lakes since I am in central Cali and it's a bit of a drive to any part of the river 

1977 Challenger