35' 1977 Viking Convertible

[Freeebird]

I have a friend looking at one of these in Florida and was just wondering if there is anything specific he should be concerned with beyond the obvious. Sounds like it falls into the fixer upper category, and I've seen some pics. Is there anything specific he should look into with this particular boat?

I know nothing about Vikings but have recommended he get a survey regardless. Thought maybe some of you guys may be able to offer some input that I can pass along.

[captddis]

Check the stringers and aft bulkhead.

[Boatsb]

And check for blisters. We had a customers viking that needed a peel. Pretty bad and not as thick as a hatt.

[capttonyf]

Is it like this one? If so that's a nice little boat.

http://detroit.craigslist.org/wyn/bod/5522716322.html

Tony

[saltshaker]

Be a friend and tell him to look for a better boat. That's not the same as the 35 Tony posted. Those older 35 Vikings have little to no market and a project boat would have negative value. As Dave said stringers and act bulk head are known issues. Check the transom as well as all Stanton bases. Very wet stiff ride with mediocre performance.

[Freeebird]

Be a friend and tell him to look for a better boat. That's not the same as the 35 Tony posted. Those older 35 Vikings have little to no market and a project boat would have negative value. As Dave said stringers and act bulk head are known issues. Check the transom as well as all Stanton bases. Very wet stiff ride with mediocre performance.

This one is priced really cheap, but I did notice it looked to have some transom problems as in fiberglass broken/cracked on a shot which I assume to be the rudder posts. This one has been repowered with 90's vintage 6.2 MerCruiser's and is priced at $8K. It needs work, but for that kind of money, he may be okay unless it's about to break in half.

[saltshaker]

This one is priced really cheap, but I did notice it looked to have some transom problems as in fiberglass broken/cracked on a shot which I assume to be the rudder posts. This one has been repowered with 90's vintage 6.2 MerCruiser's and is priced at $8K. It needs work, but for that kind of money, he may be okay unless it's about to break in half.Probably only worth about 15K if it was in very good shape. If it needs a lot of work walk away. If the stringers are rotted run away.

[jim rosenthal]

From Viking's decidedly mediocre period of yacht manufacturing. With older Hatteras yachts bringing so little money, he would be better off finding a Hatteras, which is worth fixing up and might even hold some percentage of its value.

[34Hatt]

Be a friend and tell him to look for a better boat. That's not the same as the 35 Tony posted. Those older 35 Vikings have little to no market and a project boat would have negative value. As Dave said stringers and act bulk head are known issues. Check the transom as well as all Stanton bases. Very wet stiff ride with mediocre performance.


I thought the ride was not a good one but wasn't sure I was sure that Jack would know :cool:

I have seen pictures of it and its scary he needs to walk away.

[2swift]

First I'd like to Thank Bird for starting this thread helping us in this endeavor and to all taking the time to chime in.:)\
to pass down their info and experience with big boats. :)

Question ....I thought from some of the research we have done that the 77 35' was a tank of a boat from the better years of Viking
. Does anyone know of any Sites where they actually discuss the vintage Viking in general?
I have tried but there is very limited info out there regarding them. Ty all for taking the time to help a big boat virgin.Pat

[Freeebird]

I forgot you were already a member here, but I just did a quick Google search and found this...

http://www.vikingowners.org.uk/details/details.asp?g=1

[Freeebird]

Oh yeah, post up those pics here... if you dare. :D

[saltshaker]

First I'd like to Thank Bird for starting this thread helping us in this endeavor and to all taking the time to chime in.:)\
to pass down their info and experience with big boats. :)

Question ....I thought from some of the research we have done that the 77 35' was a tank of a boat from the better years of Viking
. Does anyone know of any Sites where they actually discuss the vintage Viking in general?
I have tried but there is very limited info out there regarding them. Ty all for taking the time to help a big boat virgin.Pat
The hull is fairly tough but no tank. The ride is lousy and the build is fair to poor. Viking improved immensely over the years. The earlier boats are not built as well as the newer boats. The '80s boats are better in styling, layout, performance and a bit better in build quality than the 70's boats. Viking really started improving the quality in the early '00s and now builds an excellent boat. That '77 35 is a stretched version of the 33 Viking which is the first glass Viking. Viking was building wood boats in the '60s and early '70s. Id stay away from the '70's boats unless she was a steal and in exceptional condition. The '80s 35 is a much better boat but still nothing compared to a Hatteras or Bertram of similar vintage.

[captddis]

The hull is fairly tough but no tank. The ride is lousy and the build is fair to poor. Viking improved immensely over the years. The earlier boats are not built as well as the newer boats. The '80s boats are better in styling, layout, performance and a bit better in build quality than the 70's boats. Viking really started improving the quality in the early '00s and now builds an excellent boat. That '77 35 is a stretched version of the 33 Viking which is the first glass Viking. Viking was building wood boats in the '60s and early '70s. Id stay away from the '70's boats unless she was a steal and in exceptional condition. The '80s 35 is a much better boat but still nothing compared to a Hatteras or Bertram of similar vintage.

I don't think the build is poor compared to the Silvertons, Jerseys, oceans and Sea Rays and Carvers of the day. Not to mention the Chinese boats of the 70 and 80's.

That said The Hatts, Bertrams and even Chris Crafts have withstood the test of time

[2swift]

I forgot you were already a member here, but I just did a quick Google search and found this...

http://www.vikingowners.org.uk/details/details.asp?g=1
I saw that site but looks to be a totally different builder. Based out of the UK:(

[Freeebird]

I don't think the build is poor compared to the Silvertons, Jerseys, oceans and Sea Rays and Carvers of the day. Not to mention the Chinese boats of the 70 and 80's.

That said The Hatts, Bertrams and even Chris Crafts have withstood the test of timeI actually thought the Sea Ray's of that time period were very well made compared to the lightweight cored stuff they build today. What kind of failures have you seen with the 70's and 80's? Just curious..

[Freeebird]

I saw that site but looks to be a totally different builder. Based out of the UK:(

I honestly didn't even look at the boats. Saw the UK designation and just thought the site was based there. You would think there would be a Viking owners forum similar to this one, but maybe not.

[saltshaker]

I don't think the build is poor compared to the Silvertons, Jerseys, oceans and Sea Rays and Carvers of the day. Not to mention the Chinese boats of the 70 and 80's.

That said The Hatts, Bertrams and even Chris Crafts have withstood the test of time
True I guess it all depends on what your definition of a quality boat is. Id take a 70's Chris Craft 36 Commander over that Viking any day.

[2swift]

Oh yeah, post up those pics here... if you dare. :D
Port rudder section in question.
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h183/patczeck/FAD31AAD-98F8-49DC-8B53-05B7F9857837.jpg

[jim rosenthal]

Sure makes me want to head offshore. Just need to finish some estate planning.

[2swift]

Port rudder section in question.
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h183/patczeck/FAD31AAD-98F8-49DC-8B53-05B7F9857837.jpg

And that is why I be talking to you gents. We are fully aware she has issues. I am fully aware that she may not be the most popular girl at the prom.
But We do Like her a lot. There are no plans for taking her offshore the day after purchase on 1 screw and leaking a packing. I looked at her again today and the owner
is meeting me Wednesday to talk about that issue in the corner. There will be some further inspection I promise you that. I am here to ask about solutions to possible problems.
Some of you know I have been around the net for a bit soo other then the normal ball busting I ask that you help more then hinder this process. We are already stressed and
don't need any extra.
That said All we will be doing with her is puttering around the Tampa bay area with island trips and your typical booze cruising. Yes I might venture off shore abit but in nothing more
then I would do with my 19'.
So next question....Is she gonna sink before I get the bolts and drip on the Port rudder attended to?:p

[saltshaker]

Sure makes me want to head offshore. Just need to finish some estate planning.

Do you need me to send you my personal info so you can add me as your beneficiary? Always happy to help where I can.

[saltshaker]

Can't tell much from the picture but it does add support to my earlier comment on how build quality is fair at best. Take a look at the same area in a 36 Hatteras and you'll see how she is so much better in design and construction. That installation looks awful even if everything was in good shape and clean. Will the boat sink? who knows? If it's just the packing (which it probably is) then not likely. If the rudder is loose in the hull or the fasteners are rotted and leaking then you have a higher risk of sinking. Not much we can tell from that pic or without further detail. Post more pics of the boat and we can give you some insight to what may be easy to fix or too much work and not worth the money needed.

[Freeebird]

And that is why I be talking to you gents. We are fully aware she has issues. I am fully aware that she may not be the most popular girl at the prom.
But We do Like her a lot. There are no plans for taking her offshore the day after purchase on 1 screw and leaking a packing. I looked at her again today and the owner
is meeting me Wednesday to talk about that issue in the corner. There will be some further inspection I promise you that. I am here to ask about solutions to possible problems.
Some of you know I have been around the net for a bit soo other then the normal ball busting I ask that you help more then hinder this process. We are already stressed and
don't need any extra.
That said All we will be doing with her is puttering around the Tampa bay area with island trips and your typical booze cruising. Yes I might venture off shore abit but in nothing more
then I would do with my 19'.
So next question....Is she gonna sink before I get the bolts and drip on the Port rudder attended to?:p

That leaking rudder is the least of your worries, but did you say one screw as in one engine or is there one screw holding something in place? :p

You know I'm gonna mess with you on here, but post up the rest of those pics. Hey, you're looking for opinions, may as well show it all.

[saltshaker]

That leaking rudder is the least of your worries, but did you say one screw as in one engine or is there one screw holding something in place? :p

You know I'm gonna mess with you on here, but post up the rest of those pics. Hey, you're looking for opinions, may as well show it all.
Randy please explain to him the issues with owning a twin screw boat that only has one working. I'm still thinking run and I haven't seen the boat yet. The most important thing I can tell you is that a cheap boat is often the most expensive boat you can buy by far.

[tellico]

That said All we will be doing with her is puttering around the Tampa bay area with island trips and your typical booze cruising. Yes I might venture off shore abit but in nothing more
then I would do with my 19'.:p

Good point. Reminded me of my early big boat purchase where I was all worked up about a wet bulkhead and associated rot that was very characteristic of that particular model. I had a lot of info on the problem, boat was cheap ($16k) , I was committed but nervous.

And old well known surveyor did the survey, pointed it out and ask me very matter of fact... "are you planning to go around the world or go drink beer on the bay?"

I was doing the latter, so bought it. My Dad and I did some redneck engineering to address the issue, used the heck out of that boat and sold it for more than I paid for it.

Not advising you on your deal, but I've always kept that surveryor's well-reasoned comment in mind.

[2swift]

Randy please explain to him the issues with owning a twin screw boat that only has one working. I'm still thinking run and I haven't seen the boat yet. The most important thing I can tell you is that a cheap boat is often the most expensive boat you can buy by far.

For arguments sake lets not worry about Motors or Transmissions in this equation.
That is already accounted for.

[2swift]

That leaking rudder is the least of your worries, but did you say one screw as in one engine or is there one screw holding something in place? :p

You know I'm gonna mess with you on here, but post up the rest of those pics. Hey, you're looking for opinions, may as well show it all.

I will just working and hard to do it with my phone.:D

[Freeebird]

I will just working and hard to do it with my phone.:D
I'll post them for you, because that's just the kind of guy I am. :D

[2swift]

Good point. Reminded me of my early big boat purchase where I was all worked up about a wet bulkhead and associated rot that was very characteristic of that particular model. I had a lot of info on the problem, boat was cheap ($16k) , I was committed but nervous.

And old well known surveyor did the survey, pointed it out and ask me very matter of fact... "are you planning to go around the world or go drink beer on the bay?"

I was doing the latter, so bought it. My Dad and I did some redneck engineering to address the issue, used the heck out of that boat and sold it for more than I paid for it.

Not advising you on your deal, but I've always kept that surveryor's well-reasoned comment in mind.

Ty I like that quote. Alot! lol Just made the wife smile and this is her Idea. Ty for that small piece of levity.

Bird I did have this gem on my work pc. Note to all I have free Haul out and I can weld.
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h183/patczeck/6A2E426A-8194-44D4-A3FC-0D653D9C6514.jpg

[Freeebird]

Randy please explain to him the issues with owning a twin screw boat that only has one working. I'm still thinking run and I haven't seen the boat yet. The most important thing I can tell you is that a cheap boat is often the most expensive boat you can buy by far.

You mean how you can't take one 230+ miles across the Gulf and another 700 up a river full of locks? :D

Big difference is, both my engines ran great when I bought the 58. No way would I have bought it with one down.

[Freeebird]

Okay, lemme try this again.


http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h183/patczeck/B3616CEB-0EF1-4C81-A698-F9FB4A5E8F56.jpg

[Freeebird]

I forgot how badly this site sucks when it comes to posting pics which can only be four at a time.

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h183/patczeck/D6C745A5-48E9-46F8-8702-A62BC2BFC420.jpg
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h183/patczeck/FAD31AAD-98F8-49DC-8B53-05B7F9857837.jpg
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h183/patczeck/FDE2AA41-D96B-49B2-9EDE-8B1AC08D91E1.jpg
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h183/patczeck/FB665505-C06C-4CEF-A40A-E6AD9458BA75.jpg

[Freeebird]

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h183/patczeck/E33015B2-6F7E-4E92-A5C4-1C0C68CF3E79.jpg
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h183/patczeck/9CD74DD7-FB8D-4C89-8B3C-1904179EBC8C.jpg
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h183/patczeck/7B0FE77F-1D40-43A0-94C0-FF9F7E1A05DC.jpg
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h183/patczeck/5C65B055-B629-4B78-A8EE-CCBF0BA08F93.jpg

[Freeebird]

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h183/patczeck/5827579B-ABF1-4F38-B04A-0A139F00EACD.jpg
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h183/patczeck/E83690E2-E8D2-4C16-B1ED-3F6F794B802D.jpg
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h183/patczeck/7371937A-266D-49A4-B237-D9511D945101.jpg
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h183/patczeck/F53A685C-C5AD-4B5C-A203-5F226DC4FAD0.jpg

[Freeebird]

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h183/patczeck/6A2E426A-8194-44D4-A3FC-0D653D9C6514.jpg
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h183/patczeck/6EAA3B45-6E8F-442B-9894-55A9414CF6A3.jpg
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h183/patczeck/844BBF9E-EBE6-4504-986A-A8ED67CBC013.jpg
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h183/patczeck/C9E96760-175D-4830-AC88-9DD07EF5AD2A.jpg

[Freeebird]

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h183/patczeck/CDA88F0F-D1B8-462F-BCF7-7C5F594D2E17.jpg
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h183/patczeck/AE5A0B61-BA74-4B73-8DC5-2EC49891EE6C.jpg
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h183/patczeck/4348863D-3F92-4876-82A7-A72385653104.jpg
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h183/patczeck/ED9FA821-95FA-46A9-8889-B861E621BD99.jpg

[Freeebird]

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h183/patczeck/4EBEB3C3-11F6-4492-B43F-CC738DBC7E56.jpg
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h183/patczeck/5530E0DF-7834-4BAD-89A4-C9007C582E57.jpg
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h183/patczeck/1F5E3B8F-8DBB-4180-B8CB-18411A086AF5.jpg
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h183/patczeck/2C533598-CEF5-4E55-B65B-E45796A8E8BC.jpg

[Avenger]

Somebody stole your windlass.

[tellico]

I'll post them for you, because that's just the kind of guy I am. :D

With friends like Freebird what more can you ask for?? This is a tough crowd, wear full protective gear!

[2swift]

Somebody stole your windlass.
Yup. lol no it Broke and current owner was about to replace it. I have sealed the area.

[2swift]

With friends like Freebird what more can you ask for?? This is a tough crowd, wear full protective gear!

Ha :D

[Avenger]

One of the boats on my search was a 33' Viking of an early '70s vintage. While the hull was decent, the electric and systems were absolute garbage. To be fair, the one I looked at was in much worse shape than what I see in your pictures, but I see a lot of similarities. When I brought my 36 home almost a year later we went past the yard and the Viking was still sitting there. I have a feeling it ended up at a Viking funeral shortly afterwards.

[Finalee]

You will spend a lot of time on her keeping it or even getting it going. If nothing else make darn sure the hull is,sound. Perhaps then it will be,worth your time and effort.
As I get older time is worth more than money.

[pizzazsdaddy]

Welcome to the insane asylum 2swift!

Your initial research is correct. The 35 Viking of the late 1970s was pretty well constructed. Having sea trialed one many years ago, I thought the ride was good. The layout features an enormous head and shower compared to similar models.

The peeling and blistering issue came primarily with the 1983 and 1984 models. Glidden Paint paid out a huge settlement to Viking back then due to the chemical composition of the gel-coat that triggered the problem.

That being said, the photos you posted show a need for thousands of $$$ just for the "little things" that will easily eclipse your purchase price several times over. If you don't know exactly what you are getting into, it would be wiser to find a much nicer boat for 4 times the asking price of this one. And cheaper in the long run.

[capttonyf]

Welcome to the insane asylum 2swift!


That being said, the photos you posted show a need for thousands of $$$ just for the "little things" that will easily eclipse your purchase price several times over. If you don't know exactly what you are getting into, it would be wiser to find a much nicer boat for 4 times the asking price of this one. And cheaper in the long run.

I'd have to agree with this statement. Not too rain on your parade, but I some you spending more money to repair it then its worth. just in the aft end of the boat, and the shaft logs there is Thousands of Dollars in Repairs.

Tony

[Freeebird]

I'd have to agree with this statement. Not too rain on your parade, but I some you spending more money to repair it then its worth. just in the aft end of the boat, and the shaft logs there is Thousands of Dollars in Repairs.

TonyI told him the same thing this morning after finding out the starboard engine is toast. That was the proverbial icing on the cake.

He can buy the boat for $8K, but he'll have $12K in it so fast, it'll make his head spin, and he will have just begun. He's a very capable DIY guy, but that only goes so far. That assumes there are no structural issues.

No doubt he can have a much nicer boat that's ready to play for $15K.

[34Hatt]

I'd have to agree with this statement. Not too rain on your parade, but I some you spending more money to repair it then its worth. just in the aft end of the boat, and the shaft logs there is Thousands of Dollars in Repairs.

Tony

Pat sound familiar :confused: Lots of these comment close to what I posted across the hall.

You're going to spend to much time and $$$ for a so so boat. If you want to commit and do this crazy shit on a Old boat at least get a Bertram or Hatt.
Been there Still doing it :p

[Freeebird]

One of the boats on my search was a 33' Viking of an early '70s vintage. While the hull was decent, the electric and systems were absolute garbage. To be fair, the one I looked at was in much worse shape than what I see in your pictures, but I see a lot of similarities. When I brought my 36 home almost a year later we went past the yard and the Viking was still sitting there. I have a feeling it ended up at a Viking funeral shortly afterwards.

Funny you used the "Viking Funeral" thing as I did the same thing yesterday when I said I was trying to save him from one.

Just out of curiosity (and maybe to help Pat), what do you think it would cost to dispose of a boat like this if it came to that?

[saltshaker]

Welcome to the insane asylum 2swift!

Your initial research is correct. The 35 Viking of the late 1970s was pretty well constructed. Having sea trialed one many years ago, I thought the ride was good. The layout features an enormous head and shower compared to similar models.

The peeling and blistering issue came primarily with the 1983 and 1984 models. Glidden Paint paid out a huge settlement to Viking back then due to the chemical composition of the gel-coat that triggered the problem.

That being said, the photos you posted show a need for thousands of $$$ just for the "little things" that will easily eclipse your purchase price several times over. If you don't know exactly what you are getting into, it would be wiser to find a much nicer boat for 4 times the asking price of this one. And cheaper in the long run.
I'd agree except the quality and ride is mediocre at best. I could make a list the size of a book of all the known issues with these boats. Nearly all have wet transoms, rotted aft bulkheads, wet, rotted plywood stringers just to begin with.

[Avenger]

Funny you used the "Viking Funeral" thing as I did the same thing yesterday when I said I was trying to save him from one.

Just out of curiosity (and maybe to help Pat), what do you think it would cost to dispose of a boat like this if it came to that?

Depends, does your buddy have access to any construction equipment, or is there a local fire department that wants some practice?

[Freeebird]

I'm assuming he could come up with some destruct... uh, construction equipment. Can you break up a boat and take it to a landfill? I would think not.

Looks like the EPA would have problems with burning it, even for fire department practice.

[Avenger]

Why would you think not? They put all kinds of things in landfills. Fiberglass is probably one of the most environmentally friendly materials you can put in a landfill.

Fire departments burn all kinds of things for practice. Ask them.

[Freeebird]

I guess it depends on how much destruction you do. I can see just the hull being sawed up, but you've got lots of other crap to contend with like drivetrain, appliances, etc. All that will be left if you burn it too, so would a fire department carry off the remains for free?

[2swift]

Hmmm For what ever reason I stopped getting Email notices on reply's to this thread.


After reading a lot of the responses I'm almost to the point of buying the boat with the soul purpose of showing Randy what Can be done with this old girl
with my skill set and resources. Money isn't the point of the Topic. Getting this Vessel that is very likely to be chosen up and running and using the skill
set and knoledge of this forums member base is my current goal. I Know this Boat. I like this boat...And My Wife Wants this boat...AKa Sugar Mama.
So let move past The Why not and onto the to does! That should be even more fun! Right?:p

[saltshaker]

Before you spend any money find out if the stringers are wet and rotted. If so (and most are) the boat is worth nothing. I know you've fallen in love with this one but be careful you're not making a huge mistake. This is not a Viking that many would want.

[2swift]

Before you spend any money find out if the stringers are wet and rotted. If so (and most are) the boat is worth nothing. I know you've fallen in love with this one but be careful you're not making a huge mistake. This is not a Viking that many would want.

Agreed There will be a an out of water survey done. An Randy gave me a good idea on that earlier.
Other the that.....What you got?

[krush]

If you are going to spend (waste) lots of time fixing an old boat up, and spend lots of money just getting it safe to use....then why not at least spend both on something nicer than a crapped out viking?

[2swift]

Agreed There will be a an out of water survey done. An Randy gave me a good idea on that earlier.
Other the that.....What you got?See after the Survey you could say that if she comes back wet.. Yet we not there..

[2swift]

Sorry just realized quotes are different here.

[2swift]

If you are going to spend (waste) lots of time fixing an old boat up, and spend lots of money just getting it safe to use....then why not at least spend both on something nicer than a crapped out viking?

See after the Survey you could say that if she comes back wet.. Yet we are not there..

[krush]

I saw the pictures, I don't need a survey.

My friend but the same brand RV as me but paid about 1/2. Mine was turnkey ready to go with just a few normal maintenance wear and tear items. He still hasn't got all the systems repaired on his and his time, headache, and $$ spent is now up to what mine cost...and I just got in and drove.

[Freeebird]

Hmmm For what ever reason I stopped getting Email notices on reply's to this thread.


After reading a lot of the responses I'm almost to the point of buying the boat with the soul purpose of showing Randy what Can be done with this old girl
with my skill set and resources. Money isn't the point of the Topic. Getting this Vessel that is very likely to be chosen up and running and using the skill
set and knoledge of this forums member base is my current goal. I Know this Boat. I like this boat...And My Wife Wants this boat...AKa Sugar Mama.
So let move past The Why not and onto the to does! That should be even more fun! Right?:p

It's not a matter of what can be done but a matter of practicality in doing what needs to be done. It's like restoring a Yugo. It may be fun, but it's still going to be a Yugo when you're finished, and nobody will want it when you're tired of it.

[saltshaker]

See after the Survey you could say that if she comes back wet.. Yet we not there..
I think you're missing the point here. If you want a project boat that's fine. I improved every boat I've owned and was able to move up to where I am by buying the right boat for the right price and then improve the boat and its value. This boat isn't one of them. There's little to no market for older Vikings and this particular model is one of the worse. A similar size a vintage Hatteras, Bertram or Chris Craft would be a much wiser choice. You'd still never get your money back from a project boat but you'd have a good boat when finished and when it's time ho sell you'll have something move valuable than a '70s gas powered Viking. You could buy a much better boat for the money you will spend on this one and not have to do all the work. You will save a lot by DIYing it but the parts cost will be more than the finished boat is worth.

[Avenger]

Just out of curiosity (and maybe to help Pat), what do you think it would cost to dispose of a boat like this if it came to that?

I have another idea for getting rid of it. Find some dreamer who thinks they can fix it up and sell it to them cheap.

[Freeebird]

I have another idea for getting rid of it. Find some dreamer who thinks they can fix it up and sell it to them cheap.

Hey, that idea seems to be working for the current owner.

Sorry, Pat. :D

[saltshaker]

I saw the pictures, I don't need a survey.

My friend but the same brand RV as me but paid about 1/2. Mine was turnkey ready to go with just a few normal maintenance wear and tear items. He still hasn't got all the systems repaired on his and his time, headache, and $$ spent is now up to what mine cost...and I just got in and drove.
My thoughts exactly. What's in those pics isn't terrible but we haven't seen the rest of the boat. Why fix one when you can get a good one for not much more. A good, clean, updated 3208 one would still be under 30K. Dave's old Bertram was in good shape and had been repowered with 375HP 3208s. Still took a long time to sell and the owner ended up selling it cheap. Why on earth would anyone buy an old 35 Viking project when there are so many good boats out there cheap?

[Freeebird]

I don't recall whether or not Swifty posted it on here, but his wife has problems with diesel giving her really bad headaches.

That point aside, there are most definitely better buys out there. As I told him, the only thing a survey is going to accomplish (other than wasting money) is showing that boat is a bigger disaster than it already appears to be. It's a no win proposition.

We're not trying to beat you up, Pat, we just don't want to see you get burned. I'm sure you understand that, and it has nothing to do with your capabilities.

[saltshaker]

I don't recall whether or not Swifty posted it on here, but his wife has problems with diesel giving her really bad headaches.

That point aside, there are most definitely better buys out there. As I told him, the only thing a survey is going to accomplish (other than wasting money) is showing that boat is a bigger disaster than it already appears to be. It's a no win proposition.

We're not trying to beat you up, Pat, we just don't want to see you get burned. I'm sure you understand that, and it has nothing to do with your capabilities.
I get the no diesel issue. I had a friend who's wife had the same issue. They went from a gas boat to a diesel boat. She tried a few times but couldn't tolerate the exhaust. Engines ran clean and boat was in good order she just couldn't stand the smell of the fuel or the exhaust. Boat sat for a year unused and then they sold it for a gasser. I hope Pat understands that we aren't a bunch of Hatteras snobs that won't endorse anything but a pristine Hatt. We're also not a bunch of rich guys who think that spending more is the answer. What we are trying to advise on is the feasibility of fixing up one of these old boats. We also understand that it doesn't need to be restored to new condition either but it does need to be safe, sound and operational. I have a fair amount of experience with these boats and at one point had the 35 Viking on my list of boats to buy. Thankfully I was educated by others and discovered many of the issues first hand with boats I was looking at. I've since seen many 70s and 80's Vikings with significant structural issues, mainly the stringers. Viking stringers are plywood wrapped in FRP. FRP isn't enough to be structural and the limber holes aren't glassed or sealed leaving the wood core exposed. A friend of mine had one of the nicest 48C Vikings I've ever seen. After many years of ownership he needed an insurance survey. Surveyor found all stringers rotted and the engine beds were sagging due to the bad stringers. Only way to properly fix the boat was to gut it, fix the stringers and then put it all back together. Several yards and techs looked at the boat and all said that was the only way to fix it. Estimates were in the low to mid $400K range. That same year another 48 Viking nearly sank because the engine stringer collapsed and the engine and gear dropped while running mid 20kts and 40 miles offshore. I know of several 35, 41, 45 and 48 Vikings that had transmission issues due to poor stringers causing misalignment. I've also been told by a Viking service manager that there isn't a Viking built up until the mid '90's that doesn't have a wet transom that will need to be re-cored. Well maintained ones and ones that have been properly repaired are best but the design and build flaws are there and not easy to overcome.

[Freeebird]

Listen to the man, Pat. We don't want to have to change your username to Not2swift. :D

[saltshaker]

Listen to the man, Pat. We don't want to have to change your username to Not2swift. :D
Now that's funny!

[Finalee]

This would be worth your time and effort.
http://www.thehulltruth.com/boats-sale-wanted/754348-1989-blackfin-32-combi.html

[Freeebird]

This would be worth your time and effort.
http://www.thehulltruth.com/boats-sale-wanted/754348-1989-blackfin-32-combi.html

No power? I told him to look at this one.

https://treasure.craigslist.org/boa/5546264851.html

[2swift]

Thank you all for taking the time to bring to light some of the issues and other options to consider.
We are going to take a step back and reevaluate. The sale on the Viking is not going to happen.
Yes there was some history tied to the boat but after removing that part from the equation the
math and other options became clear. I thank you all for taking the time to save us from our selves.
Looking forward to more info from you guys when when we settle on another more suitable ride.
Pat

[Freeebird]

Now we're talking, and you're welcome. :D

[jim rosenthal]

Don't forget the free 36 Hatteras convertible down in Rockport, TX.

[saltshaker]

Always happy to help talk someone down off the ledge. We've all been there before and most of us have been doing this a long time. That Tiara looks like it would be well worth a look. Great boat with fresh power for much less than the Viking would have cost

[Freeebird]

Don't forget the free 36 Hatteras convertible down in Rockport, TX.

Who the hell can afford a free 36C?

[GaryNW]

This thread has me thinking about a better end to old yachts than the crusher. Like the 48' vikings mentioned-not economically viable to fix. So strip engines seacocks, exhaust, etc etc and turn them into a cabin in the woods. Obviously we would need some liberal zoning law-but it does exist. Put in septic system, a well or creek water and we got a cool cabin with everything already there. Galley, bathrooms, staterooms, etc,etc. And mind you, cabins ain't cheap if they have (3) stateromms, (2) bathrooms, nice outside areas etc. And the septic and well would be needed for a cabin in same location. This concept beats having tons of FRP in landfills.

OK, I am strange'

Gary

[tom5518]

This thread has me thinking about a better end to old yachts than the crusher. Like the 48' vikings mentioned-not economically viable to fix. So strip engines seacocks, exhaust, etc etc and turn them into a cabin in the woods. Obviously we would need some liberal zoning law-but it does exist. Put in septic system, a well or creek water and we got a cool cabin with everything already there. Galley, bathrooms, staterooms, etc,etc. And mind you, cabins ain't cheap if they have (3) stateromms, (2) bathrooms, nice outside areas etc. And the septic and well would be needed for a cabin in same location. This concept beats having tons of FRP in landfills.

OK, I am strange'

Gary

I may be strange too, because I think that is a GREAT ideal when it comes to some boats.

[Freeebird]

I've gotta tell ya, the thought crossed my mind more than once with my 58. I have some lake property and wondered how much it would cost to put it up on blocks with a big deck around the thing. It would beat the hell out of a mobile home, especially in a tornado. :D

[GaryNW]

Good to know there are other strange ones. I am reminded of a story a few years back where a guy bought a retired 727 for scrap alum price. Had wings sawed off, and then had fuselage and wings trucked to his lot in Or. Idea was to make it his home. You say why save the wings? Well he wanted an A/P not just a fuselage. But dang, he had a huge project to make this thing a home. Not so much with a yacht.
Hear you on the tornados , Freebird. Why even way out here in Wa state, we have heard that these things target mobile homes.

Gary

[tellico]

The airplane thing has been done and discussed a good deal on net. Here's the how to .. http://www.airplanehome.com/ http://inhabitat.com/oregon-man-lives-inside-727-airplane-home-in-the-middle-of-the-woods/bruce-campbell-727-house-2/

There used to be a good number of "boats on land homes" around they Ches Bay. Some with decks and more. I think most were cleared out during the mid-2000's when most marina's sold in the great real estate boom/bust.

Heck, I've probably got some relatives in ENC living in cabin cruisers in their parents yard. Def a few in RV's ... :)

[Avenger]

I've gotta tell ya, the thought crossed my mind more than once with my 58. I have some lake property and wondered how much it would cost to put it up on blocks with a big deck around the thing. It would beat the hell out of a mobile home, especially in a tornado. :D

Cheaper and easier to dig a hole and bury it up to the waterline. Less stairs to climb. Do that with a convertible that has a transom door and you have a deck/patio. Plenty of storage in the basement with the engines removed, but you'd probably still need a bilge pump.

[Sharon Jean]

Cheaper and easier to dig a hole and bury it up to the waterline. Less stairs to climb. Do that with a convertible that has a transom door and you have a deck/patio. Plenty of storage in the basement with the engines removed, but you'd probably still need a bilge pump.

Like this ?

[Avenger]

And here I thought that for once in my life I had an original thought. :(

[Freeebird]

Good to know there are other strange ones. I am reminded of a story a few years back where a guy bought a retired 727 for scrap alum price. Had wings sawed off, and then had fuselage and wings trucked to his lot in Or. Idea was to make it his home. You say why save the wings? Well he wanted an A/P not just a fuselage. But dang, he had a huge project to make this thing a home. Not so much with a yacht.
Hear you on the tornados , Freebird. Why even way out here in Wa state, we have heard that these things target mobile homes.

GaryI'm working on a patent for my inflatable mobile home decoys as we speak. Whenever there is a tornado warning issued, they automatically inflate as to attract any incoming twister.

The deluxe package includes inflatable yard art including junk cars for those really savvy tornadoes.

[Freeebird]

Cheaper and easier to dig a hole and bury it up to the waterline. Less stairs to climb. Do that with a convertible that has a transom door and you have a deck/patio. Plenty of storage in the basement with the engines removed, but you'd probably still need a bilge pump.

But I like stairs and decks and was considering a moat which would not only be functional for security purposes, I could still enjoy the sound of water slapping against the hull.

[Avenger]

I like the moat. You could hang a rod and go coi fishing.

[Freeebird]

Coi hell, I'm stocking it with largemouth bass that have been bred with piranhas. They'll give you a good fight and a good bite at the same time while providing an emergency food source when the zombie apocalypse comes.

[oscarvan]

Along these lines.... remember the Cosmic Muffin?

http://piximus.net/others/the-cosmic-muffin-airplane-boat