[Hondajoey]

18' Southwind Open Bow Conversion?

I have a 76 18' Southwind that has little to no room in the back seat due to the blower & gard pushing the seat forward, so I was thinking of selling it for something bigger, but then I thought about this and was wondering if it would be worth it to open up the front and make it an open bow, there is a bulk head up front now so theres not any storage to be used up front as it is. just checking if anyone has done this or not. it has a cool paint job but its starting to show its age and has a few scratches from the years of use.Thanks for any thoughts on this.

 

[Futs]

I have a 76 18' Southwind that has little to no room in the back seat due to the blower & gard pushing the seat forward, so I was thinking of selling it for something bigger, but then I thought about this and was wondering if it would be worth it to open up the front and make it an open bow, there is a bulk head up front now so theres not any storage to be used up front as it is. just checking if anyone has done this or not. it has a cool paint job but its starting to show its age and has a few scratches from the years of use.Thanks for any thoughts on this.

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First off thats a V bottom, not a tunnel and I wouldnt advise it unless your going to do some major structual supporting and add full stringers. Not saying it can't be done, but it would cost more then the poor boat is worth.

 

[Hondajoey]

First off thats a V bottom, not a tunnel and I wouldnt advise it unless your going to do some major structual supporting and add full stringers. Not saying it can't be done, but it would cost more then the poor boat is worth.

And that is why the question was asked...

 

[Futs]

And that is why the question was asked...

So you answered your own question. It wouldnt be cost effective to cut it up and redo everything, there are so many boats out there that could be had for way less money. Sell your boat less engine or find one that suites your needs and swap out the enginges. You would be way ahead of the game. Then put the engine from the newer ride in the SW and sell it complete for more money.