Advice requested for buying cla$$ic CC

My family has a 1957 Chris Craft Sportsman 17', re-powered. I have been using this for the last 5 years with my wife and 3 young daughters.

Also, we have an 1957 Aristocraft 14' Torpedo outboard woodie that is nearly restored. Only the hardware needs to be refitted. This boat my Dad started to have restored but passed away in the process. www.aristocraftboat.com The castings on this boat are fantastic!

Sadly, both may be for sale this summer.

I love these boats but they are not practical for trailer use and the recreational needs of my family. But a Bayliner outboard just would not do, either (no offense...)

Oh yeah, I forgot. Since 1976, folks had a place on Big Green Lake, WI. If I get a boat in time, I'll definitely be at the reunion!

Sorry for going so far OT. Just introducing myself.

How about pics of the Higgins progress?

john

Thanks Everyone! I greatly appriciate the insight and support.

I'll post some pics and details after I take a look at her.

Parts for the AMC 327 are not a problem to find compared to the early 4 and 6 cylinder Grays. As far as costs go, it's hard to say because what is realistic to one person may not be to another. Don't know if this engine will be equiped with a alternator or generator as the early 60's is when they were switching. My 63 has a alternator. Keep in mind that the generators kept boats and cars running for many years before the alternators. The switch to a alternator is easy if you're not a purest like myself!! Good luck and hopefully it is in good shape.

Raindog, Welcome and I'm sure you can find a cla$$ic gla$$ CC to suite your tastes. As far as what to be aware of, you may find the least amount of hardcore issues with this early mid-sixties vintage, as it predates foam floatation and the subsequent rotten stringers. However, these early gla$$ boats commonly had gelcoat crazing/cracking problems. So don't be surprised. But check the stringers for telltale signs such as the engine mount lag bolts backing out. If you can pull up floor boards and seat bottoms, try and do so to check structural condition. If they're original you've got a good find. The original wood seat bottoms may have the boat hull number stamped in them, such as PC 122, etc for a CC Cla$$ic model. The 327 Graymarine engine is/was great also. If it fires up and runs it's a good sign, but rarely do we expect to pick up a 40 year old boat and expect the engine to be bullet proof unless the guarantees it as such. Good luck and keep us posted.