We are taking a quick break from the heat of the Florida sun to give you an update on “Big Dreams, Part 1.” As you might have seen in the last episode, we hit a major snag that pushed our budget—and our timeline—right out the window.
Here is the technical reality of where we are with the Bayliner Bowrider 175 and what the next phase of this restoration looks like.
The Engine Gamble: Why We Busted the Budget
I spent $800 on a new cylinder head and gaskets from MarineEngine.com, hoping to save the original block. Unfortunately, once the head was on, we found that cylinder 3 only had 60 lbs of pressure.
- The Reality: To fix it myself, I’d need an A-frame to pull the engine and a full bottom-end rebuild. Even then, I could run into a cracked block I couldn’t see.
- The Decision: We’ve sent the boat to JB Automotive. They are installing a brand new rebuilt long block from https://www.google.com/search?q=ExcessiveEngine.com. It comes with a 2-year warranty, which is worth the peace of mind when you’re heading out to the ocean.
- The Cost: Our “cheap” engine fix jumped from $800 to roughly $3,200 (parts and labor).
The Fuel Tank Design Flaw
While the engine is out, we’re taking advantage of a specific Bayliner design quirk: you cannot pull the fuel tank without pulling the engine. Since the bay is empty, we’re inspecting the tank and checking the fuel flow now. It’s the only time we’ll have this kind of access, so we’re making it count.
Fiberglass and Flooring: “Peanut Butter” and Bed Liner
I’ve finished sanding the stringers (back in that lovely “MOPP 4” paper suit) and started the fiberglass work using Total Boat’s 5:1 resin.
- The “Peanut Butter” Mix: We’re drilling out old silicone “repairs” and filling them with a resin/fiberglass mixture we call “peanut butter.” I’ve also picked up some white dye so the repairs blend into the hull.
- The Floor: Once the new marine plywood is in, I’m fiberglassing over the entire floor to seal it.
- The Finish: Instead of carpet, we’re going with white bed liner. It’s slip-resistant, easy to clean, and won’t get scorching hot like black liner would.
Danielle’s Interior Vision
Danielle is moving into the upholstery phase. The “re-upholstery” done by the previous owner involved rusty staples and low-grade vinyl that acted like a sponge for mold.
- The Plan: She’s sourced high-quality marine vinyl with UV protection. We’re looking at about 10 yards of material and new foam to completely redo the seating.
- Aesthetics: She’s also handling the color coordination for our new 8-foot Bimini top and the windshield frame, which we’re planning to paint and tint for a modern look.
The Bottom Line
Including the cost of the boat, we’re currently sitting at about $5,500. By the time we add the upholstery, expanding foam, and a few other essentials, we’ll likely be closer to $6,500.
Is it more than we planned? Yes. But for that price, we’re getting a boat where every major system—from the hull up to the engine—has been inspected, repaired, or replaced with brand new parts. You can’t find a “pristine” version of this boat for that price without inheriting someone else’s hidden problems.
Our July 4th launch is off the table, but we’re aiming to have “Big Dreams” on the water by our anniversary in August.
Watch the full update and hear about our custom plans here: Boat At Shop, Our Plans After EP #14