What did I get myself into?

[jim rosenthal]

There are a couple of shops I have run into that specialize in rebuilding MoPars. Let me know if you want names and numbers. The tank issue is a BIG part of this...it has had a bad effect on older boat values if they have gas engines, with good reason.

Got any photos? We're used to looking at old boats here, I would like to see what you are starting with.

 

[MikeP]

Oh - I didn't realize that they came with 454's. I based my thoughts on the post indicating that 426s were in the early boats - around 300HP originally.

I would think these boat would fly w/454s! We had a 36ft mainship w/350s and it would hit 25-26 at WOT. Of course maybe my idea of "flying" in a boat is skewed. To me, in our 53MY, 16 knots is flying!

What sort of speed is expected out of a 34?

And speaking of MOPARS - they were the primary motors I worked with in my engine building days. Of the 170+ I did that I have dyno records on, MOPARs account for about half with GMs taking most of the rest with a few Fords thrown in. Ah well, those days are definitely gone now. When we moved from NY I sold the last of my engine-building stuff - the engine stands, porta crane, press, etc... (Sad Icon)

 

[67hat34c]

Mike, Mine had 427's originaly, not too many have original power. most were repowered at least one time. mine was done in 1988 and repowered with crusader 454's.

Fly? not sure but we get 29kwot with current props. 18k cruise. prior props got better cruise and wot but they are damages currently. Now the 34dc may be heavier, not sure. so not sure what to expect.

Mario has a 34sedan with original chryslers, not sure what his does, maybe he can chime in here.

 

[MarioG]

21K wide open. 18 kt cruise. If I bring her back to 9 or 10 kts, I get about 9.5 gals an hour. Not too bad. My 330hp Chrysler 440's are awesome! BTW Chrysler parts are readily available at Marysville Marine and a few others like them. I have a complete spare parts kit on the boat that I never have used yet (knock on wood).

 

[Ross]

Yes, Dan you and i got into something. 1964 34 dc with the short cockpit.Has been a real learning curve for us.Mine came with old carb. 454s.You will have to go threw the roof if you repower. I went with the 350 gas (315-325 hp) and hurth gears.Did not run her with the 454s and have not gotten her in the water eather.Doing some what of a refit$$$$.pic on our profile.We put in a hatch where the hole was for r&r the engines.Also had to redo the deck hatches over the engs. EFI was taller and the lid stringers were in the way.Also coring bad in cabin roof and around bow hatch$$$$$$$.Still coming out ahead for a floating condo in our area.No ethinol in my gas supplier yet.

 

[richardoren]

....You will have to go threw the roof if you repower...

Dan,

This is an important consideration for repowering. The only way into the engine compartment on the 34DC is through the salon roof, UNLESS you are able to take an engine apart and fit it as a bobtail (ie no cylinder head or accessories bolted on) through a door or a salon window with its frame removed. This brings some value to rebuilding your current engines: they can be rebuilt aboard without going through a hole in the roof.

Rich

 

[34Hatt]

I would think going thru the window is the best even If you have to strip it down some. Now I know these are 34dc but is the window much smaller then a 38dc because I know a 4 cyl yanmar fit's tru that window opening with frame removed.

 

[danshat]

I took about 50 photos of her today. I want to document this experience well since it promises to have it's ups and downs. If anyone is interested I can send them via email. I haven't figured out how to post them on the forum yet. The more I dig in the more I realize how many little odds and ends there are to do. My parts list keeps growing and growing. Spent $1000 yesterday just getting her towed and registered. Growing up with boats well under 20' has not prepared me for this. I see her sitting at the dock and keep telling myself "dang that's big." I think it's perfect for my family of 3. Thanks to all for the encourgament and advice. I guess she used to own to a member of the forum. Her name is the Kona Nani. Once she's back in shape I'll rename her I think. The wife and 10 yr old like "Mad Hatter" so I think I'm stuck.