Hi, I am new to the forum and jet boats in general. I am a partner at a SXS Accessory Shop called IMG Motorsports out of Elsinore. I also live on Elsinore and love boating in general, even better when I am hauling ass though haha...

So I sold my 89 Sleek Craft Cruiser and wound up getting back into it with a '78 Hallett, 21' long. I and not going really crazy but I just got the engine in a couple weeks ago and now I started the interior and making a new engine cover and doing away with the ugly, cheesy styled old one.

I have a couple questions if anyone can help--

1. Any tips on the hatch or even the way it needs to be designed to be strong?

2. Anyone know where and what the best hinges are? I am not looking to spend over say $100 for 2 hinges, hopefully less haha....

I will post some pics of the progress as I go.... any help or tips or pointers is much appreciated, it is my first boat project.

Welcome and I can't wait to see how yours comes together.

Here is my solution to the unsightly engine cover.  You might not find the cubic dollars required for the rest of the install justifiable to saving the $100 in hinges, but the rewards are worth it.

I don’t have any pictures of Hallett Dave’s Rootbeer Float totally assembled, but I really like what he has done with his engine cover.  Hopefully someone will post up pics, it is really worth a look.

Cheers,

Joe

P.S.  How about some "before" pictures?

Not to get off topic but BEAUTIFUL boat joe!! Loving the hat!!


"RTCP"

Thank you Dennis.  The Gord Trip has renewed my drive to get motivated on it.

I’m dying to see which hull the OP has.  I know they can handle big power.

Cheers,

Joe

Good to hear joe! Come on OP show us the boat!


"RTCP"

More pics


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Update pics

Nice!

Looking forward to seeing it out there.

Joe

more progress work pics

Nice work on the engine cover. I was able to fit a cover with a small scoop over my motor. You can see the hinge they used on mine, nothing special. I only have 2 hinges with bolt/nut.

Like this: http://www.marinepartdepot.com/hedudehiwire.html

I went with the saddle seats on each side of my motor so I have less materials than your cover.

Nice float.

I went with the saddle seats on each side of my motor so I have less materials than your cover.

That looks great!