Need to fine a engine cowling for 78 I/O

Discussion in 'Restoration Projects & Questions' started by MikeOB72, Jun 18, 2008.

  1. MikeOB72

    MikeOB72

    Joined:
    Jun 15, 2008
    Messages:
    2
    Boat Model and Year:
    Competition 18 I/O 1978
    I need to find an engine cowling for my 1978 I/O. The previous owner said it blew off on I5.
    I will make one that works if I need to but would really like an original hydrodyne cowl.

    Also need a new windshield and would like to find a set of original aluminum brackets to redo the seats.

    Any help or suggestions would be appreciated
    :?:
     
  2. jim

    jim Hydrodyne 18 Specialist

    Joined:
    Jun 14, 2006
    Messages:
    2,321
    Location:
    FL
    Boat Model and Year:
    77 Dyne 18 I/O converted to Outboard
    I hate to tell you this but after I converted mine to an outboard the cowl sat around here for years. I tried to give it away over at Fiberglassics with no luck. This was prior to joining this site. I finally threw it away, sorry.

    There have been some I/O's advertised on here in bad shape with cowls. You might do a search for their discussion and try to contact them.

    There are some pictures on here of my seats. The aluminum frames are simple and would be easy to fabricate. The cushion bases are just plywood, but could be made from synthetic also. The original upholstery is sort of complicated, but I bought a walking foot sewing machine and taught myself how to use it and re-did mine and I can walk you through it. I love the original seats.

    I did save the grills. I think you could fabricate a much better looking engine cover.

    Malibu used an Indmar LS1 marine conversion engine in about 2000. That engine has a bundle of power and since it is aluminum it is about 300 pounds lighter that an iron V-8. Apparently it was discontinued, but I have heard that Mercury Marine is going to do it again. Those engines have been improved and are working quite well on airboats here in FL. That is what I would go with.

    Where are you located?

    jim
     
  3. MikeOB72

    MikeOB72

    Joined:
    Jun 15, 2008
    Messages:
    2
    Boat Model and Year:
    Competition 18 I/O 1978
    I am sorry I missed out on the cowling. I will keep looking until I find one or get everything else done on the project. After reviewing the rebuild on this site it makes me think that I will find more problems as I tear into it. Lucky for me I do have a friend who has 1978 that his family has owned since new to use as a reference for a lot of it. I am located in Gig Harbor WA. I have learded alot about some of the problems to look for from this site. I will try to get some pictures up in the future.
     

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