New to wood boats, found this Dunphy...with a twist!

As I just got my 5th boat (all fiberglassics), it seems my dad has caught the bug. He has always wanted a nice old wood boat. He did, anyway. Now, he knows he doesn't have the time or desire, or even the physical ability to get in and out of the boat so easily as he would as a younger man.

Some time ago he acquired an old camelback drill press (for free) that he never used. He had a chance to trade the drill press with a friend for a 1959 Dunphy with a 58A Mercury. 

So, we went today to get the old boat in the first snow fall of the season. 
Seems the boat was not stored very well. We were very surprised to see the twist the hull had developed once we got it pulled out to a level spot on the driveway. 

We know nothing about wood boats. We are wondering if this boat is worth restoring. Most of the deck is rotted, but the hull isn't that bad, as far as these eyes can tell. Can the twist be fixed or is this beyond hope?

The Mercury looks really nice, and is very clean. 

We appreciate your comments and advice!
Dave

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Permalink Reply by Lawrence E. Long on November 22, 2015 at 5:24pm

David :  I suggest you go to  the WoodenBoat Forum.  Lots of info on old/new wooden boats from many people.  From what you show in the pictures  it might be a lost cause- but then I am no expert. Good Luck  and let us know how it turns out.

Permalink Reply by Rick Newman on November 22, 2015 at 6:00pm

My first impression is that almost any wooden boat can be repaired with enough time, money and effort. It might make more sense to use the parts of the boat to make patterns to make a completely new boat. From the photos posted here I have to presume that there is lots of hidden surprises and loosened fasteners. Without straight and true pieces the boat may never handle properly or not leak.

This site is primarily about wooden framed drift boats covered with plywood. There are two sites that I am aware of that might have more knowledge of your boat. http://www.thehulltruth.com is the first one and the second one is woodenboatforum.com.

If the engine you purchased is in good shape and the trailer not rusted or damaged you have to major expenses conquered. You might be able to find a boat that simply needs paint and TLC but needs a motor and trailer. It all depends upon if you want to go boating next summer or in several summers. It took me four years to build my drift boat, I was delayed by cold weather, no place to work, money, going back to school to earn a degree to hopefully obtain employment. Life happens.

Good luck with your project.

Rick Newman

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