43 DC hard top dimensions

[Cavofficer6]

Does anyone have the dimensions for the 43 DC hard top? I am trying to get a definitive dimension on the keel to top (w/mast stepped, etc). I bought one in VA a few weeks ago, but I can't find a shipper to bring it to Knoxville TN, I'm told that it's "too high". I'm not keen on removing the hardtop and windshield, etc.

 

[Jims43DC]

You can float it all the way there

 

[Cavofficer6]

If I do it by water, I can't start until July, as I don't retire until 1 July. I was going to take that time to get the bottom prepped and painted, and a number of other projects revealed in the survey. Every shipping company I've dealt with say that it's too tall, but it's a regular hard top Hatteras 43, not exactly a tall boat. They don't have the height, so I'm trying to get it, rather than having it pulled again, and take off more time to measure it myself. I can get it done, but I'd have to take the helm/hardtop off, which is not only a major undertaking, but I'd also have to get it re-installed at the destination. I'm a little frustrated.

 

[sgharford]

I have a 1976 43DCFB - It's a very very tall boat for a 43'. The graving plan says it's 16' 6"without the Fly Bridge. I would not dare attempt remove the hardtop and window frames on a boat this old, I think it would be very difficult to get back together. I've never seen a boat as big as 43' DC going down the highway either although I think they did it back in the day - building them in High Point, NC and trailing to New Bern, NC. Anyway, wish you all the Best with her, and Thank you for your Service to our Country.

 

[Cavofficer6]

Thanks so much Scott, this is the first time I've seen an actual schematic with dimensions for the boat. This helps a lot. I guess I will have to just drive it here, since it's a very original, and in fantastic shape. I just love these older boats, great lines, great build, and a lot of class. You're welcome!

 

[SKYCHENEY]

You will be much better off taking it by water. A guy in our marina had a 50 Tiara trucked up from FL to Michigan. They gouged the hardtop on a bridge, and beat it over our terrible roads so bad that his insurance company almost ended up totaling it out. Repairs have been made but its still not right. I would not truck a boat unless it was the only option.

 

[SeaEric]

You could get the required work completed where she is now.

 

[Cavofficer6]

Yessir, that's what I'm going to do. I'll get the required work done at location in VA, before I head out to KY. Thanks for the input, all the advice helps me with the decision, so I'm more confident moving forward.

 

[Jims43DC]

Yessir, that's what I'm going to do. I'll get the required work done at location in VA, before I head out to KY. Thanks for the input, all the advice helps me with the decision, so I'm more confident moving forward.

And it will be a great way for you to become one with the boat... and Thank you for your service

 

[Cavofficer6]

Thanks Jim!