rustnrot
01-17-2009, 10:44 AM
The next project after the F14 that we are finishing up will be a surface drive app, either this boat or a Cobalt GT500. Probably this Chris Craft.
I am soliciting advice from you all, here is what I have and where I want to go with it.
Chris Craft XK18 was originally an 18' jet drive boat with a 454 big block and jacuzzi drive. It has an 18 deg vee. I want to install a Pulse Drive surface drive and a 300 hp 3800 V6 engine in it. I will be happy with 55 mph, priority is to be different, not ultimate performance.
The existing hull has no rocker that I can see. However, it does have recesses for tabs at the transom (see pic) so methinks it may have ridden a tad bow-high with the jet. I was thinking of leaving the recesses there with no tabs, a poor-mans rocker if you will. Since I need to fill the jet hole, any ideas on a pad? Or do major construction and give the hull a proper rocker? No steps, not going there.
Lastly, I am considering this as a two seater, lengthening the front deck and have the two buckets where the rear seat is. Should also help in getting weight rearward.
What do you all think?
Anybody that can Photoshop this to a two-seater? I have other pics that may be better to work with.
Thanks in advance, ya'll.
For more pics...
http://s104.photobucket.com/albums/m178/rustnrot/Chris%20Craft%20XK18/
I am soliciting advice from you all, here is what I have and where I want to go with it.
Chris Craft XK18 was originally an 18' jet drive boat with a 454 big block and jacuzzi drive. It has an 18 deg vee. I want to install a Pulse Drive surface drive and a 300 hp 3800 V6 engine in it. I will be happy with 55 mph, priority is to be different, not ultimate performance.
The existing hull has no rocker that I can see. However, it does have recesses for tabs at the transom (see pic) so methinks it may have ridden a tad bow-high with the jet. I was thinking of leaving the recesses there with no tabs, a poor-mans rocker if you will. Since I need to fill the jet hole, any ideas on a pad? Or do major construction and give the hull a proper rocker? No steps, not going there.
Lastly, I am considering this as a two seater, lengthening the front deck and have the two buckets where the rear seat is. Should also help in getting weight rearward.
What do you all think?
Anybody that can Photoshop this to a two-seater? I have other pics that may be better to work with.
Thanks in advance, ya'll.
For more pics...
http://s104.photobucket.com/albums/m178/rustnrot/Chris%20Craft%20XK18/