I finally took the leap and bought a open bow ski boat. A few friends had Supras (late 80's and early 90's) and swear by them. We wanted something that could seat 6 to 7 and we could leave in the water during the summer without worrying about it. New boats that cost 60k were out. CLosed bows were out to space issues and alot of kids who want to ride or ski. I looked for about 6 months until I finally mentioned my boat search to a buddy from work. His family was selling their ski boat that in his words they used ten hours per year. I though it was BS until I saw the boat and the records. A 1988 Supra Mariah with 236 hours. He called it a rare boat because it had a 454 and a Supra tower ( I am not sure if he is correct on it being rare). His family had owned it since day one and it had always been stored inside their shop at the lake house. I did a compression test, a water test for a hour to check the systems and bought it for middle book value. It had the original stickers when I bought it. They are now gone but the sun fading is there. The compression test revealed factory new compression for the 454. The boat showed wear inside but overall a nice clean Suprah. Trailer is super clean and has four brand new tires. Decent stereo. All gauges and systems work.
However, I knew it would require some repairs over the winter. Here is what it needs:
1) Rear ski locker cracked, front cooler cracked, drivers floor plastic also cracked. (Unavailable from what I have read on this forum?)
2) the vinyl is in pretty decent shape 6 out of 10 which is fine because we are going to use the boat.
3) wake is pretty flat with two guys in it. I am thinking about redoing the rear seating area to add some weight. I'd love to see some ideas. Has anyone modified the rear seat to a bench like the SN 2001? Am I crazy to suggest?
4) I know I have a spot in the floor that is soggy 1 foot by 1 foot. My carpet is a bit worn also. I was thinking about removing the much complained about foam over the winter, checking the stringers (replacing if needed) and redoing the floor/carpet in grey. Carpet is worn blue now. Suggestions?
5) Are the factory rub rails still available?
6) Will the light fading on the side come off with rubbing compound or do I need to wetsand the boat? Drivers side has more fading that passenger side.
Thanks in advance for this awesome forum and the ideas I have borrowed from all of you.
Aaron
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