More of a hum and a buff than a real build, but satisfied with the results.
Our son talked about boats as his in laws, the whole family actually, have boats from a Trophy 28 to big cruisers. That's too much boat, but he wanted to get on the water and get his 3 y/o used to the idea. I found a Jon Boat with a trolling motor and a trailer much beefier than necessary, for pretty cheap. I cleaned it up, painted the inside with Rustoleum Smoke Gray and the hull with satin Hunter Green. I replaced all the wood and also put some Trex at the bow for stiffness and a place to run a hook.
While I was doing all this, Ian found an aluminum Star Craft, easier for him because it had paperwork.
Before:
After:
This is the 1971 Star Craft Ian bought and cleaned up. It has a Holsclaw trailer and a 28hp two stroke. He removed everything from the interior, the floor is solid so he put down a foam like pad on the floor, cleaned up the seats and sorted things out. Today is Christening Day.
The Bimini looks tall, but on a hot sunny day, you'll be glad it's there.
11GTCS
SuperDork
8/10/24 9:40 a.m.
In reply to 914Driver :
That Starcraft will be perfect for your son and grandkids to use. Small enough to tow and launch easily, easy to handle in the water and big enough to be stable and safe for the kids. Heck even with only 28 HP I bet it will be peppy enough to tow a tube for the kids when they're ready. The bimini top is a big plus and looks tall enough to stand up under which is good.
OjaiM5
HalfDork
8/10/24 10:03 a.m.
The Jon boat turned out really nice. The Star Craft looks like an amazing boat.
My Son was given a free Jon Boat this summer and we did a quick cleanup on it. We also used Rustoleum Smoke Gray haha. We built a casting deck with storage and added some rod holders. Fun father-son project. Currently it is locked to our trailer from our local lake because it has to pass a 35 day quarantine to prevent Quagga mussels. I can't wait to take it out.
Living in Norwalk, he can launch at the marina with no charge. No one got hurt or wet. 
It ran rough for a bit but smoothed out, then he switched tanks and it started again so he switched back; probably older gas than he thought.
When he returned his wife and kid were at the dock waiting, Sidney loves it, all the things a 3 year old loves; Fire Boats, construction equipment, ice cream stands, he wasn't a hard sell.
He pulled to the dock as we were talking and two guys in a 30 foot something with big twins on the back, complimented Ian on the boat, "Wish I still had mine" was heard. I think it's a keeper.
Now, who needs a Jon Boat?
Dan
