Home Forums Hunting & Shooting Hunter's Campfire Can we talk about boats at the Campfire?

My son in law was given a 89 Sea Ray/Merc Alpha1 3.0. It "has good bones" as they say. The upholstery is shot but useable for now. It came with the whole kit on a decent trailer.

He rode in the boat says it runs good but seems to take on a "little" water. We notice the outdrive lower bolt that goes through the transom is loose. At first I thought it was the little zinc anode but the bolt and washer wiggles slightly.

I have spent a far amount of time in boats of various kinds over the years. I even helped work on them from time to time but I've never had one to figure out and maintain. He is keeping it at my house, has a full time job and 3 kids AND told me I can use it anytime he isn't using it. I suspect most of the time we will use it together with the grandkids, so in my own enlightened self-interest I am working on it.

My research tells me that, unfortunately, you had to PULL THE @#$%ing MOTOR?!?!?!? to get to the head of the bolt. Looking at it, I don't see another way.

Is that the case?

I wonder if any campfire members know anything about boats? <tightening chin strap>