Picked up an Avon SR4 1983 as a new project. I was amazed that the tubes and hull, whilst needing a polish, are in excellent condition. The tubes have held air for the last 2 weeks at running pressure without even a hint of a drop.
Currently has a 55 2 stroke Johnson but the controls and steering are all seized and I cant rely on the motor. Also the screen is broken with part of it missing as you can see in the images.
Trailer is in great condition, towed 50 miles without the hubs getting even slightly warm. So here's the plan.
1) New 50hp 4 stroke Tohatsu efi with electric start, trim and charging loop
2) New stainless A Frame
3) New stainless transom supports
4) Seats to be removed, remade (where necessary) and reupholstered
5) Hull polish and clean
6) New screen to be fabricated and fitted
7) New steering and controls for the motor
8) Starter and electronics batteries fitted under the front port seat with isolator and switch panel, including 12v charging for phones, gopro etc
9) Nav and anchor lights on the A Frame
10) New DSC fixed VHF in the dash, antenna on the A Frame
11) New Garmin GPS Plotter / Sounder flush fitted on the dash
12) New auto bilge pump with manual over-ride
13) New engine gauges (rev / tilt,trim / oil pressure / temp) in the dash
Cant think of anything else. Essentially everything except the hull and tubes will be replaced new for old. Considered engine choice long and hard and decided on the 4 stroke as I have one already and its incredibly quiet and frugal, and I like the 7 year warranty. The 50 should be more than good enough for my needs and fast enough to have some fun but be practical when doing coastal runs along the Solent etc.
Cant wait to get her in the water, much of the work is being done professionally by Higham Marine in N Wales, but with some tinkering by me. I could have done it myself as I did when I fitted out my Excel Vanguard but I know it would take me months to get it all done, Higham's reckon 2-3 weeks and I'll have it back finished and ready to go.
Watch this space
