I have $1571.83 into it. A little over 83 hours. I've kept very good track of the money and time. (I'm a project engineer)(minus trailer and oars, I already had that stuff). Wood is Meranti, frames, seats are Doug Fir, Trim, chines, etc is all white Oak. Oiled on the inside with homebrew oil mix, Captains 1015 on the outside as well as the seats, casting deck. The only piece missing, is the kneelock brace- thats sitting in the garage drying.
I think you did a great job !! I also think I'd like to take a float in it. Well done. I really like the way you did the little jump seat off the transom... I think you said it was for one of your daughters, but it looks sturdy enough to hold an adult?? I've been thinking of adding that feature to my boat... very cool.
Take some pictures of the launch and submit them to WoodenBoat Magazine... they have a section called "Launchings" in every issue (it's the first section I turn to). I've never seen a McKenzie style Drifter in there yet and we need to spread the gospel.
Good job Dave Z you Happy Trout!!
GH
Greg ,one of these days, I'll be showing up knocking on your door. The rear seat is pretty much just for my daughter. shes a 60 pounder and doesn't affect the boat in the water much. It also supports the transom, which on this boat is only 1/2" ply with a 1/4" piece laminated to the outside. I have the same setup on my old 16' fir boat. I have had a second guy back there on flat water bass floats and the boat is ok to handle. Not so much on tekky water. I've actually stood on that rear seat (and front seats for that matter) spotting and casting to carp.
Tom,
I have had three drift boats. The trailer is the only trailer I puchased about 5years ago. It is a Hyde. Got it from Hyde used for half price when they were in Muskegon, MI. it was barely used, and they put new tires, lights on it.
In the East here, it is pretty tough going finding a real drift boat trailer. I got lucky.
Nice looking boat. Should get a few lookers! I like the finer detail like the screw holes plugged and nice touch to the oarlock block. Brings out the craftsmanship.
Gorgeous! I am near the end of my restore and I think it looks good, but it doesn't look new. I am craving a new project already and these pictures are fueling the fire. Well done.
Was checking out your boat, very nice. Like the hinges....... Might use that idea if you don't mind....
Yes the barn is quite the sanctuary. Just built the work benches before I got the kit. It had been on the to-do list for about 4 years.... too many hobbies.
Hey that is awsome man! I have been thinking about trying to build a drift boat my self, to save money, as there are no manafacturers down here in east tennessee. Where did you get the plans and how much did they cost? Also did the plans have every step in the as i have never tryed to do any thing like this before, just a couple wood shop classes in high school is all the experience i have. Thanks brandon