Leo Bentz, Ski Nautique and Boat #1
Printed From: CorrectCraftFan.com
Category: General Correct Craft Discussion
Forum Name: General Discussion
Forum Discription: Anything Correct Craft
URL: http://www.CorrectCraftFan.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=37908
Printed Date: November-30-2024 at 5:52am
Topic: Leo Bentz, Ski Nautique and Boat #1
Posted By: 81nautique
Subject: Leo Bentz, Ski Nautique and Boat #1
Date Posted: January-01-2016 at 2:48pm
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Leo Bentz, Ski Nautique and Boat #1 I've been trying to figure out how to tell this story since we returned from our 55 year journey back in time to recover an artifact so relevant to our sport and hobby it's unfathomable. Three days later I've decided to just post what I've come to know as fact, through magazine articles, documents and conversations with the parties involved. To give proper credit to the authors/originators, everything I reproduce here is done so with the permissions of Leo Bentz, Mark and Bob Cleary, and Zenon Bilas. Of major importance is to give proper credit to Art Cozier, without Art's detective work and persistence over the last few months this story, or better yet, the continuation of it, would not have been possible.  Excerpt from a Zenon Bilas article 1991. “During the '40's and early 50's, “serious” skiers typically favored wooden inboard boats, like the Beautiful old Chris Crafts, the Century Resorters, and the Correct Craft's Atom Skiers. Although these inboards had large wakes and would be considered sluggish by today's standards, they were the towboat of choice for the freshly organized band of competitive skiers. As the 50's wore on and tournament water skiing became more and more popular. Crosby twin rig outboards, the first fiberglass boats, became the favorite among competitors. Crosbys, which evolved into today's hydrodynes, had smaller wakes and a lot of power, great for slalom and jumping. Their draw-back however, was high fuel consumption, and rigging the boat with twin motors was complicated. All of this frustrated Leo Bentz, who ran a thriving Florida ski school in the '50s and early '60s. Dissatisfied with the wooden inboards with their huge wakes, and complicated twin outboard rigs, Bentz decided to design and build the perfect boat, one made specifically for water skiing and for Miami Beach's Lee's Ski School.” Skipping ahead in the article a little bit “Building a plug and mold can run between $50,000 and $100,000- if the process is started from scratch. Leo Bentz admits to taking one of his old Higgins boats he used at this school to make his first plug. After incorporating secret techniques to the hull design to produce a smaller wake, he contracted the subsequent steps to outside firms. Bob Conn, a Miami boat builder specializing in performance craft, built the fiberglass mold, and Bentz contracted with another Miami builder to manufacture his new ski boat in lots of 12. All of a sudden, Bentz was in the boat building business.” A major omission in the article is that prior to the 12 production boats, there was one prototype produced by Bob Conn. The first production boat was sold to William Grimditch, whose son Wayne was to become world jump champion 9 years later. The prototype was sold to Bob Cleary who attended Bentz' ski school, his intent was to sell Ski Nautiques to boat dealers in Northeast. “In September of 1959, Bentz and his wife attended the World Championships in Milan, Italy, and visited the French Riviera. There they discovered a ski school going full blast in Cannes, operating as “L'escole de Ski Nautique” (translated “the school of water skiing”) Bentz adopted the name Ski Nautique for his boat.” “Bentz sold his Ski Nautique under the company name of Glass Craft. Shortly after producing the first batch of Ski Nautiques, Bentz decided that he had his hands full with his ski school, teaching as many as 100 people per day! He wanted out of the boat-building responsibilities and in the spring of 1961, he approached Correct Craft, intending to sell them his mold for $10,000. Amazingly, in retrospect, Correct Craft was not interested in buying the nautique mold, perhaps for two reasons. First, Correct Craft was just seeing daylight from a bankruptcy proceeding caused when a government contract evaporated; and it had just introduced it's own fiberglass inboard ski boat, which the company was marketing as the American Skier. But, Several months later, Bentz received a personal vist from the Walt Meloons- senior and junior- at his Miami Beach ski school. Bentz says he felt that the purpose of the Meloon's change of heart was because well-known tourmanent skiers had testafied that the Ski Nautique design was the best one available to the water skiers of the day. So, the Meloons made Bents an offer he couldn't refuse and the mold and the name changed hands to Correct Craft. (The agreement was that Bentz would receive one boat annually for three years, and Correct Craft was to be responsible for servicing the Ski Nautiques that had been sold previously)” A photo of Leo and his family in the prototype Ski Nautique  Photos of Lee's Ski School, Miami Beach      |
Replies:
Posted By: 81nautique
Date Posted: January-01-2016 at 3:03pm
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Bob Cleary and the prototype Boat #1 As I mentioned earlier, Bob Cleary purchased the prototype in 1960 with the intent of selling Ski Nautiques to boat dealers. Letter from Leo to Bob  Shipping manifest  Bob Cleary's promo letter to dealers  It doesn't appear that Bob sold any boats and soon after he received his boat the mold and rights to the Ski Nautique name were sold to Correct Craft who already had a dealer network in place. The boat then became an integral part of his families lives for the next 55 years. Bob knew how special his boat was, enough to never remove the Lee's Ski School graphics from the transom or the Interceptor graphics on the bow. In talking to Bob's son Mark he tells us of many “free” ski lessons his dad gave because people thought he was Lee and running a ski school on the waters of Barnegat Bay New Jersey. In the mid 90's Bob and his wife Helen moved to Hilton head South Carolina and brought #1 with them. The boat was starting to show some wear and it's aging 312 Y block interceptor was replaced with a new PCM 302. #1 was lightly used for several years on the waters around Hilton Head. Letter from leo Verifying Bob;s boat is the prototype  #1 in Hilton Head 1996  Unfortunetly time waits for no-one and the boat's existance was limited to sitting on her trailer in the Carolina elements. Bob did have the boat started and run annually, there are marina receipts from 2006 to present day of this indicating 2006 may have been the last time #1 was in the water. In all the years with #1 sitting in a storage yard Bob never lost the vision of how important this boat was, he was determined to hang on to it. Mark jokes of his parents never arguing about anything,...except that darn boat. When Dana and I hooked the boat up last Monday to haul her to her next adventure Mark joked again that his mom Helen finally got her wish and #1 was moving on. In all of my excitement to be hooking the Jeep up to such a historic boat it was also a very sad moment. Mark brought his dad with him to see us off. There weren't many words exchanged but Bob walked around the boat, while I put on some fresh tires he commented on how well the graphics still looked. Again Mark joked light heartedly with me about how Dad usually doesn't remember what he had for breakfast but remembers every detail about that boat. With my own dad only a few years younger than Bob that resonated with me for the next 1200 miles home. Mark and Bob Cleary     So as I said, the next adventure for #1 is just beginning. The boat is well used to be polite. We will be replacing the PCM engine with a period correct Y block Intercept. I haven't poked around the bilge yet but I'm anticipating doing a stringer job. What I haven't determined yet because it's below freezing here back in Illinois and I haven't washed the boat yet is whether the boat hull can be saved as it is. I had originally thought it would be a re-gel but before committing to that I am going to see if the hull can be saved as is, original faded graphics and all. She may be a survivor and if so that is how we will leave her. |
Posted By: juniorwoody
Date Posted: January-01-2016 at 3:04pm
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Awesome piece of CC history. Got a feeling there is more coming to this story? ------------- The value of money spent on new adventure far exceeds the value of money saved for the future |
Posted By: 8122pbrainard
Date Posted: January-01-2016 at 3:14pm
 Can't wait for "the rest of the story"  ------------- /diaries/details.asp?ID=1622" rel="nofollow - 54 Atom /diaries/details.asp?ID=2179" rel="nofollow - 77 Tique 64 X55 Dunphy Keep it original, Pete < |
Posted By: Sampson 182
Date Posted: January-01-2016 at 3:21pm
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I just finished reading "Parting the Waters" by James Vincent, and was familiar with the story of the Meloon's and Leo Bentz. What the book doesn't cover is your story about Mr. Cleary, which is a terrific story. It is so cool to see what happened to that first boat as well as how its been in their family all these years. Now there is a WHOLE NEW chapter beginning. I cant wait to see all the great pics and progress on this really cool piece of Correct Craft history. Congratulations on this rare find. ------------- 1987 Ski Nautique 2001 |
Posted By: SNobsessed
Date Posted: January-01-2016 at 3:59pm
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What a great story! Will be a great companion to the Hurricane. Looking fwd to seeing it someday. ------------- “Beer is proof that God loves us and wants us to be happy.” Ben Franklin |
Posted By: peter1234
Date Posted: January-01-2016 at 5:42pm
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Just when i thought this site couldn't get any better .... ------------- former skylark owner now a formula but I cant let this place go |
Posted By: SWANY
Date Posted: January-01-2016 at 5:57pm
| Awesome stuff Alan! Offer always stands if you ever want help working on it, i'm glad to come by. |
Posted By: 8122pbrainard
Date Posted: January-01-2016 at 6:35pm
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It's interesting that the prototype was patterned off a Higgins even having the port side helm. I wonder if the Y block was a lefty? ATTN: Keith, You must put a sticky on this one!!! ------------- /diaries/details.asp?ID=1622" rel="nofollow - 54 Atom /diaries/details.asp?ID=2179" rel="nofollow - 77 Tique 64 X55 Dunphy Keep it original, Pete < |
Posted By: lewy2001
Date Posted: January-01-2016 at 6:50pm
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Alan what a great story and find. This site has been the genesis of so many amazing things. Alan you (& ccfan) have something extremely special and it could not have found a better place...... ------------- If you're going through hell, keep going http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=2999" rel="nofollow - 89 Ski <a href="http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=5685" ta |
Posted By: Smithfamily
Date Posted: January-01-2016 at 7:07pm
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Could not have gone to a better home Alan. I am sure you will do her justice! Congratulations and good luck!! ------------- Js |
Posted By: 62 wood
Date Posted: January-01-2016 at 7:25pm
Can we take a ride at Green Lake this summer?  CONGRATS! ...... Could not have found a better home! ------------- http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=1117&sort=&pagenum=6" rel="nofollow - 64 American Skier 62 Classic.. 73 Ski Nautique |
Posted By: 62 wood
Date Posted: January-01-2016 at 8:26pm
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Just got time to read the whole story... Wow! what a cool history !!! ------------- http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=1117&sort=&pagenum=6" rel="nofollow - 64 American Skier 62 Classic.. 73 Ski Nautique |
Posted By: Chevy350
Date Posted: January-01-2016 at 8:30pm
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Wow is all I can say.. ------------- 1972 Mustang |
Posted By: dwcar
Date Posted: January-01-2016 at 8:37pm
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Great story Alan!! ------------- 83Ski |
Posted By: Chevy350
Date Posted: January-01-2016 at 9:19pm
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Besides the engine, what else isn't original? ------------- 1972 Mustang |
Posted By: Eether
Date Posted: January-01-2016 at 9:33pm
| That's just awesome! |
Posted By: NCH20SKIER
Date Posted: January-01-2016 at 9:44pm
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This is great news. I am happy formal of us that this boat has been saved. ------------- '05 206 Limited '88 BFN |
Posted By: 8122pbrainard
Date Posted: January-01-2016 at 9:46pm
I'm sure Alan can speak on what he finds but I did spot the windshield and the gauges. ------------- /diaries/details.asp?ID=1622" rel="nofollow - 54 Atom /diaries/details.asp?ID=2179" rel="nofollow - 77 Tique 64 X55 Dunphy Keep it original, Pete < |
Chevy350 wrote:Posted By: Luchog
Date Posted: January-01-2016 at 9:55pm
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Great story, congratulations! ------------- http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=2095" rel="nofollow - 1980 Ski Nautique Commander 351W |
Posted By: M3Fan
Date Posted: January-01-2016 at 11:17pm
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Wow. Amazing find. This is essentially the trump card for all future SN or CC conversations. "Oh I have a SN. Yeah, the first one. Ever." ------------- 2000 SN GT40 w/99 Graphics/Gel 2016 SN 200 OB 5.3L DI https://forum.fifteenoff.com |
Posted By: LaurelLakeSkier
Date Posted: January-01-2016 at 11:20pm
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Great story on an amazing find Alan. Glad it was able to follow you home! We'll be anxious to see and hear updates on this latest restoration project. ------------- The world is full of youth—what we need is a fountain of smart! |
Posted By: Faceplant
Date Posted: January-01-2016 at 11:24pm
| Very cool !!!!!! |
Posted By: OverMyHead
Date Posted: January-02-2016 at 12:30am
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Wow Alan, You are my hero. You have a knack for for finding amazing boats, and then documenting them in an equally amazing way. #1 is lucky that it found you, and we are all lucky to get to share in the experience through CCfan. I look forward to the return of Sunday evening updates. Dave ------------- For thousands of years men have felt the irresistible urge to go to sea, and many of them died. Things got better after they invented boats. 1987 Ski Nautique |
Posted By: jbear
Date Posted: January-02-2016 at 2:21am
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this is gonna be so cool to follow. had heard from a little birdie awhile ago something about this so was just waiting to hear for sure....couldn't be in better hands. john ------------- "Loud pipes save lives" AdamT sez "I'm Canadian and a beaver lover myself"... |
Posted By: TRBenj
Date Posted: January-02-2016 at 9:15am
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The info that came with the boat is almost as cool as the boat itself! I didn't realize Leo made a dozen boats.... I wonder where the other 11 ended up. Very cool to hear the Higgins story confirmed too! Looking forward to seeing this one done, Alan... It's in good hands. |
Posted By: Morfoot
Date Posted: January-02-2016 at 10:21am
Still smiling that this boat ended up in the hands of a master craftsman and one who will restore it to it's former glory. Ya never know what's gonna happen when you travel a few hundred miles to a CCFan mini. That's why you have to hit s many as you can.   Great write up Alan and congrats to you and Dana for bringing her home. We all look forward to the future postings on bringing #1 back to life Dr. Frankenstein! ------------- "Morfoot; He can ski. He can wakeboard.He can cook chicken.He can create his own self-named beverage, & can also apparently fly. A man of many talents."72 Mustang "Kermit",88 SN Miss Scarlett, 99 SN "Sherman" |
Posted By: Riley
Date Posted: January-02-2016 at 10:51am
| Congrats Alan! The Cleary's should be very happy that the right people ended up with that boat. |
Posted By: Riley
Date Posted: January-02-2016 at 10:58am
| What do you think you do about a trailer? Restore what you have? |
Posted By: 81nautique
Date Posted: January-02-2016 at 11:34am
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Thanks everyone but I need to make a major clarification before we go any further. The credit for finding this boat goes entirely to Art Cozier. I heard about the boat while down at Greg Fossetts October CCfan gathering and instantly had interest.. I've been looking for a new project since finishing the Hurricane but nothing interesting had come along. After talking to most that knew about the boat to make I wasn't stepping on anyone's toes Art and I contacted the owners and several months later we were able to put together a deal. I really do owe a huge debt of gratitude to Art because while talking to Mark Cleary it was obvious that Art had "sold" him on selecting Dana and I as the new owners. Mark told me he's had many offers over the years for much more money than we offered but he agreed to sell us the boat because he felt it was going to the right people and we would do the right thing with it.. We are determined to restore the boat as close to original as possible and then haul it around like we do with the Hurricane and make it available for all to enjoy. Give us a few years and you will be able experience it in it's former glory with us at as many CCfan events as we can get to. We will even throw you a rope and give you a pull.....so someone start restoring a set of Cypress Garden Water Skis now. |
Posted By: NCH20SKIER
Date Posted: January-02-2016 at 11:44am
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Think I know someone with some skis that will fit the bill. ------------- '05 206 Limited '88 BFN |
Posted By: 81nautique
Date Posted: January-02-2016 at 11:59am
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I'll try to address some of the questions/comments from the thread. As to originality, the motor and trans have been replaced with PCM units. I believe the gauges were probably swapped out at that time as well. To Pete's comment on the windshield though I'm pretty sure it is correct, I think Pete is referring to the one photo where there appears to be a vertical center divider but I think that may be a reflection. All other photos of the boat show the one piece windshield, a call to Leo will answer that one though. We are so lucky to still have him available. The motor box was extended in height when it was repowered to allow for the Holley carb but those extensions have all broken away revealing the correct size cover. The motor is standard rotation and turns a left hand prop, that makes sourcing a 292/312 Y block a little easier. Bruce, The trailer has to go. It's a decent rig but I will need to find an early CC bunk trailer for it. While on our way home we stopped by the BBC in Mooresville where we met up with Timb, Rico and Reid for a few beers and spent the night. That's always a treat but Tim I wish I had looked at the paperwork before then because we would have had a good time riffling through it all. I spent hours when I got home putting it all in order. A quick thank you to Reid for the hospitality and the use the BBC to get the boat situated on the trailer properly. The ride from Hilton Head to Mooresville was difficult because the boat was sitting to far back and it had zero tongue weight.. Dana and I actually launched the boat at 2 different ramps in Hilton head but without a running boat or an operating winch I just could not get the boat up on the trailer far enough. The drive to Reids was nerve wracking but before we could even get back to the BBC in the morning Reids Ace Gary had it situated just right and the rest of the drive was sweet. thanks again. |
Posted By: 81nautique
Date Posted: January-02-2016 at 12:03pm
| We are off today to bring the boat down to Todd W's where it will winter in his barn, it's warm enough for us to stop and get it washed on the way so we'll do that and post some fresh pictures later. |
Posted By: Riley
Date Posted: January-02-2016 at 12:32pm
We have a very decent, restorable, early 60's #2 we'd gladly give you. Not sure whether a #2 or #3 is best for that boat. |
Posted By: Lakeview
Date Posted: January-02-2016 at 12:41pm
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Always noticed the so called early Ski Nautiques resembled my grandfathers 17 ft 1952 Higgins hull -this story confirms my look alike theory.By the way the Higgins was my first inboard ride experience-but as some of you early woody boat people know they had plywood issues and the bottoms gave way on many of them. Good luck Alan. ------------- Lakeview 1992 Barefoot Nautique 1967 Barracuda SS 1967 Chris Craft Cavalier |
Posted By: Fabcon
Date Posted: January-02-2016 at 3:22pm
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Very very very cool, #1 the holy grail, it does not get any better. Alan, Dana, Art, everyone involved in this boat thanks for sharing this story and what is to come. Can't wait to see it on the water and pulling a skier. ------------- 1976 Ski Nautique 351 Escort 1984 Barefoot Nautique (Parting Out) |
Posted By: 8122pbrainard
Date Posted: January-02-2016 at 3:27pm
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Alan, It's the black frame on the windshield that I referred to. Maybe it was just painted? ------------- /diaries/details.asp?ID=1622" rel="nofollow - 54 Atom /diaries/details.asp?ID=2179" rel="nofollow - 77 Tique 64 X55 Dunphy Keep it original, Pete < |
Posted By: 63 Skier
Date Posted: January-02-2016 at 3:56pm
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This is such a cool story and project. Looking forward to following the progress! A lot of years have gone by, I like to think and imagine the excitement of that boat 55+ years ago. I still remember how excited I would be to see loud, powerful inboards on our lake well before I was 10 years old. So much history. ------------- '63 American Skier - '98 Sport Nautique |
Posted By: JPASS
Date Posted: January-02-2016 at 8:10pm
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What an amazing find. Congrats. Can't wait to follow the restoration thread. ------------- '92 Correctcraft Ski Nautique |
Posted By: FredWSauer
Date Posted: January-02-2016 at 8:50pm
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That is a very cool story!!! Thanks. It will be fun to watch the work. - Fred ------------- - FWS 1993 Ski Nautique 1978 Glastron T-160 1994 Weeres Pontoon - Wife's Boat |
Posted By: GlassSeeker
Date Posted: January-02-2016 at 9:18pm
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Man I can almost smell the history in that boat ------------- This is the life |
Posted By: TRBenj
Date Posted: January-02-2016 at 9:19pm
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#3 for a SN for sure. The windshield looks to be the original 1-piece plexi and is just painted black. There are a few pics on the 1st page of this thread that clearly show a 2-piece glass windshield... The shape is a little different and the unique hardware is visible in the pic. I assumed it was another early SN but perhaps not #1. Most of the pics from the reference section show the same 1-piece that's still on it. |
Posted By: skutsch
Date Posted: January-02-2016 at 10:00pm
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Holy Crap Alan!!! That is so awesome. I can't wait to see it!!! ------------- Our http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=4669" rel="nofollow - 98 Sport Nautique My Dad's 63 Ski N |
Posted By: MechGaT
Date Posted: January-02-2016 at 10:30pm
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Awesome boat. Thanks for sharing the story. Another reason this site is so awesome. ------------- '92 Sport Nautique |
Posted By: PLBC
Date Posted: January-03-2016 at 11:10am
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Very cool. Congratulations. ------------- http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=5164&sort=&pagenum=1" rel="nofollow - 99 |
Posted By: 81nautique
Date Posted: January-03-2016 at 12:19pm
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Got the boat washed yesterday and confirmed my original intention of a full gelcoat job, just a little to far gone to preserve. It may be a while before I really get started on this project so in the meantime I will post whatever info I find along the way. Leo sent this to me yesterday. 
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Posted By: Frankenotter
Date Posted: January-03-2016 at 1:03pm
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Wow.....................absolutely amazing. So glad it ended up in your hands and not with a wake tower. I had no idea the history of the Ski Nautique. I heard what people knew it meant but I guess I always assumed that correct craft had designed the hull. Any idea if the other "Glass Crafts" survived, or is this the only one? It goes without saying, but I would love to throw my hat in the ring if you need any help. Cheers! Chris ------------- 1999 Ski Nautique 196 |
Posted By: Hollywood
Date Posted: January-03-2016 at 5:38pm
| So did Leo start that ski school? Where'd the name Lee come from? |
Posted By: quinner
Date Posted: January-03-2016 at 6:00pm
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Letter from Leo to Bob How he signed his name here, must be a nickname like Kevin is for you ------------- http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=1143" rel="nofollow - Mi Bowt |
Posted By: Riley
Date Posted: January-03-2016 at 6:26pm
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I've never called my brother Leo anything, but Lee. That boat appears to have the deluxe windshield in the first 2 photos with the family riding in it. |
Posted By: 81nautique
Date Posted: January-03-2016 at 7:19pm
yes I agree with that now that I look at those 2 photos. The windshield that came with the boat is broken in several places anyway so here is the sites first project, to come up with a windshield. |
Posted By: 8122pbrainard
Date Posted: January-03-2016 at 7:20pm
Bruce, I think you are correct. It does look like the deluxe in the first pictures. Also as mentioned, the later pictures maybe when the PCM was dropped in show the black frame.
------------- /diaries/details.asp?ID=1622" rel="nofollow - 54 Atom /diaries/details.asp?ID=2179" rel="nofollow - 77 Tique 64 X55 Dunphy Keep it original, Pete < |
Posted By: 62 wood
Date Posted: January-03-2016 at 7:51pm
Would a two pc glass from a late 60's Mustang be the same? . ------------- http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=1117&sort=&pagenum=6" rel="nofollow - 64 American Skier 62 Classic.. 73 Ski Nautique |
Posted By: Hollywood
Date Posted: January-03-2016 at 7:54pm
Maybe Lee is his middle name. This signature is a little sloppy and looks more like Leo this time. Maybe it's interchangeable!
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Posted By: Riley
Date Posted: January-03-2016 at 8:24pm
I'm guessing it would take the larger one like the Cudas, but I believe TimB could verify that. |
Posted By: skutsch
Date Posted: January-03-2016 at 8:38pm
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If I am reading the history right this boat was NOT made by Correct Craft, so you have to remember that the components like windshields, steering wheels, instruments, etc may or may not have any commonality with Correct Crafts of the same year. Any common components are coincidence or more likely because the specific component was readily available to any manufacturer. In fact the components on Ski Nautique #1 are more likely to have more in common with the Higgins, the boat the mold was thrown from. Hopefully Art can recall what manufacturers were producing windshields back then & start the search from there ------------- Our http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=4669" rel="nofollow - 98 Sport Nautique My Dad's 63 Ski N |
Posted By: 8122pbrainard
Date Posted: January-03-2016 at 8:53pm
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Steve, With the exception of the hull, ALL components were purchased. Taylor Made goes way back into the early 50's. ------------- /diaries/details.asp?ID=1622" rel="nofollow - 54 Atom /diaries/details.asp?ID=2179" rel="nofollow - 77 Tique 64 X55 Dunphy Keep it original, Pete < |
Posted By: lewy2001
Date Posted: January-03-2016 at 8:53pm
I liked the idea of preserving the originality with some patina. Somewhat like what the "Rat Rodder's" are doing but without the mods But we know your judgement call will be the correct one. Looking forward to my next GL reunion already ------------- If you're going through hell, keep going http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=2999" rel="nofollow - 89 Ski <a href="http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=5685" ta |
Posted By: skutsch
Date Posted: January-03-2016 at 10:23pm
Exactly! I knew Taylor made went back a ways, but wasn't sure how far. That's what Dad put on his when a replacement was not available from CC. ------------- Our http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=4669" rel="nofollow - 98 Sport Nautique My Dad's 63 Ski N |
Posted By: TRBenj
Date Posted: January-03-2016 at 10:24pm
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Mustang windshield will be way too narrow. I wouldn't be so quick to assume the boat had a 2-piece just yet. The 1-piece on the boat is period correct and looks to show up in a bunch of old pics too. The 2-piece had different mounting points so I would expect to uncover a bunch more holes if the boat ever had one. |
Posted By: 8122pbrainard
Date Posted: January-03-2016 at 10:29pm
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[QUOTE=TRBenj] I wouldn't be so quick to assume the boat had a 2-piece [QUOTE] I don't see where anyone has assumed anything. All that's being done is looking at pictures. ------------- /diaries/details.asp?ID=1622" rel="nofollow - 54 Atom /diaries/details.asp?ID=2179" rel="nofollow - 77 Tique 64 X55 Dunphy Keep it original, Pete < |
Posted By: jbear
Date Posted: January-03-2016 at 11:42pm
you mean Kevin is not his real name? john ------------- "Loud pipes save lives" AdamT sez "I'm Canadian and a beaver lover myself"... |
Posted By: Gary S
Date Posted: January-04-2016 at 1:25am
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Neat story and nice project Alan. I think we can all vision on how it will turn out,it's in good hands. ------------- http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=1711&sort=&pagenum=1&yrstart=1966&yrend=1970" rel="nofollow - 69 Mustang HM SS 95 Nautique Super Sport |
Posted By: SWANY
Date Posted: January-04-2016 at 2:04am
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So being really interested in this history, I was wondering a couple things on the company name and if there was any ties to "Glass Craft" originated in Iowa? From searching the old interweb I didn't see any evidence of that. Did Leo incorporate his " boat company" before selling it to CC and there is no relation to the Glass Craft that was started in 1957.... I have a good guess to the answer to the next question but did the boat come with a title? Stating the manufacturer? While searching I never saw any curved split glass windshields on any Higgins that look remotely close to the picture Alan posted. Ironically closest thing side by side comparison that came up was a barracuda without the side " Wings". Just thinking out loud... Stated before Leo built the boat before going to Correct Craft with the mold but something not to pass on lightly is that he ended up going to them eventually so he must have been following the company or keeping an eye on what they were building... not to mention they were in the same "area" where only certain products were easier available. Keeping in mind this was the 60's. Buying power, advertising, the amount of suppliers, etc. would have been completely different from what we are all use to in our day and age. Leo being alive still, he can fill in the blanks and answer most of the questions rising? |
Posted By: 8122pbrainard
Date Posted: January-04-2016 at 6:16am
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http://www.fiberglassics.com/gallery/category/266-q1964q-skicraft-lafayette.html" rel="nofollow - Lots of Taylor Made windshields of the era over on Fiberglassics. Here's a split "deluxe" on an inboard Skicraft ------------- /diaries/details.asp?ID=1622" rel="nofollow - 54 Atom /diaries/details.asp?ID=2179" rel="nofollow - 77 Tique 64 X55 Dunphy Keep it original, Pete < |
Posted By: M3Fan
Date Posted: January-04-2016 at 10:25am
WHOOPS! Not allowed at the reunion.  ------------- 2000 SN GT40 w/99 Graphics/Gel 2016 SN 200 OB 5.3L DI https://forum.fifteenoff.com |
Posted By: 75 Tique
Date Posted: January-04-2016 at 10:29am
Nancy? ------------- _____________ “So, how was your weekend?” “Well, let me see…sun burn, stiff neck, screwed up back, assorted aches and pains….yup, my weekend was great, thanks for asking.” |
Posted By: 81nautique
Date Posted: January-04-2016 at 12:57pm
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The boat is titled in NJ where the Cleary's lived, this may be the original title but there is no date on it. Manufacturer says "GLA" I haven't looked around to see if there is a hull number or HID placard anywhere yet. I have sent Leo a list of questions about the windshield, which transmission it had, the disposition of the other 12 boats, what happened to GlassCraft. and I'll post back when I get a reply. I've also sent him a link to the thread and urged him to create a user name and join in and comment, that would be a treat. For 91 years old Leo seems quite tech savvy and I wouldn't be surprised to see him sign on. |
Posted By: C-Bass
Date Posted: January-04-2016 at 1:16pm
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Awesome story Alan. I wouldn't have ever thought that boat was still out there. Looking forward to seeing this one come back to life. ------------- Craig 67 SN 73 SN http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=6103" rel="nofollow - 99 Sport 85SN |
Posted By: Hollywood
Date Posted: January-04-2016 at 1:26pm
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So is this really boat #0? The Grimditch boat could be considered [production] #1.... or there are two #1s?? 
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Posted By: 8122pbrainard
Date Posted: January-04-2016 at 2:09pm
There is a GlassCraft section on the Fiberglassics site. I wonder??? ------------- /diaries/details.asp?ID=1622" rel="nofollow - 54 Atom /diaries/details.asp?ID=2179" rel="nofollow - 77 Tique 64 X55 Dunphy Keep it original, Pete < |
Posted By: 81nautique
Date Posted: January-04-2016 at 2:40pm
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Response from leo: in uppercase 1. First question is the originality of the windshield, the one on the boat is a one piece windshield but the early photos you sent seem to show a two piece, ie: split vertically in the center. Do you recall which one is correct? ONE PIECE. I BELIEVE THAT CENTER STRIPE IS A REFLECTION FROM THE CENTER CURVE OF THE WINDSHIELD ON THAT NIGHT TIME PICTURE. 2. Do you recall if the boat had a velvet drive transmission or a Dearbomatic? I HAVE NO KNOWLEDGE. 3. Do you have any idea as to where the other 12 boats you built ended up? TOUGH QUESTION, NEVER THOUGHT MUCH ABOUT THIS. THREE SMASHED INTO SEAWALLS, ONE SMASHED INTO ANOTHER BOAT, Long stories on bad safety. ONE TO BILL GRIMDITCH, ONE OR TWO TO MEMBERS OF MIAMI SKI CLUB AND A FEW TO MEMBERS OF THE WEST PALM SKI CLUB. 4. What ever happened to Glass Craft boat company? Did you dissolve it when you sold the mold and Ski Nautique Name? MOST LIKELY NOT A FORMAL STATE REGISTERED COMPANY, JUST A NAME FOR A SHORT WHILE. 5. Lastly someone asked did you start the ski school yourself and why is it named Lee's Ski School and not Leo's. Ha! Ha!, I HAD TWO OLDER SISTERS, HENCE, FAMILY NAME WAS "SONNY." I NEVER CARED FOR LEO AS IT, RIGHTLY, HAD A GERMAN CONNATATION AND MY HIGH SCHOOL DAYS WERE 1938 TO 1942, HENCE "LEE" AS A NICKNAME. Yes, I started Lee's Ski School, however, I had previously bought a half interest in the Miami Beach Ski School for a winter season, 1950-51?, before starting Lee's Ski School. |
Posted By: FamilyManCCF
Date Posted: January-04-2016 at 2:52pm
| Alan, what a great piece of history! It is in great hands. Very excited to see the progress! |
Posted By: TRBenj
Date Posted: January-04-2016 at 2:54pm
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Haha, great responses. Doesn't seem to have lost a step! I'd be inclined to take his word for it on the windshield, though that particular picture clearly shows the 2-piece (the hardware where it meets the deck are the giveaway if the split is viewed as an optical illusion). I'd take the stance that this particular pic shows another early (non-#1) boat and go find a 1-piece screen if the current one can't be saved. There would be some obvious holes in the deck if a 2-piece was ever installed as the hardware is different and the footprints are not the same. Transmission decision might be a little tougher if velvets weren't around in '59... If they were, that's the obvious choice without any proof to the contrary! Original throttle/shift style and color/style of the boot stripe and bottom paint would be near the top of my list of questions too. What about the interior color? If Leo were to see some of the current pictures, maybe he could point out some of the non-original features? |
Posted By: Morfoot
Date Posted: January-04-2016 at 3:03pm
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Great Stuff Alan.....we all apprecitate the history research that you've done so far. Hope he is thrilled to see the boat safely in a collectors hands who wants to preserve and restore it's history. ------------- "Morfoot; He can ski. He can wakeboard.He can cook chicken.He can create his own self-named beverage, & can also apparently fly. A man of many talents."72 Mustang "Kermit",88 SN Miss Scarlett, 99 SN "Sherman" |
Posted By: Tim D
Date Posted: January-04-2016 at 6:33pm
Windshield zoom  I was looking at the different spray pattern the boat makes  Looks like the hull has a rib curled out on the bottom edge.   ------------- Tim D |
Posted By: 8122pbrainard
Date Posted: January-04-2016 at 6:43pm
That's the spray rail that CC maintained when they started building them. They were always the first thing to go since CC was making them out of wood. ------------- /diaries/details.asp?ID=1622" rel="nofollow - 54 Atom /diaries/details.asp?ID=2179" rel="nofollow - 77 Tique 64 X55 Dunphy Keep it original, Pete < |
Posted By: Tim D
Date Posted: January-04-2016 at 7:10pm
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Yeah, I've seen the wood spray rail on 60's Ski Nautiques, they are obviously wood, but I thought it looked like glass on this hull. ------------- Tim D |
Posted By: Hollywood
Date Posted: January-04-2016 at 7:15pm
| So this all white boat (presumably) in the pictures is or is not the prototype? It also doesn't look to have the spray rails. Was that a CC modification? |
Posted By: TRBenj
Date Posted: January-04-2016 at 7:30pm
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The boat with the split windshield may not be #1 if Alan doesn't find any evidence of the other windshield style... That is my working theory, ha. Based on the way the water is coming off that hull, it must have rails (difficult to see in the pic?). Take a look at the pic Wakeslayer posted of his 1gen with the broken rail... No reverse chine allows the water to come right up the hull and continue upwards rather than redirecting down. I'm not sure what was meant by "different spray pattern" but it looks normal to me... With that much hull visible it is probably in a mild right hand turn. |
Posted By: 62 wood
Date Posted: January-04-2016 at 7:35pm
My 62 Higgins has wooden spray rails...how close are they to the early SN rails design?   Note , it also has a shorter.wider rail towards the stern. not sure if that is also for spray? . ------------- http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=1117&sort=&pagenum=6" rel="nofollow - 64 American Skier 62 Classic.. 73 Ski Nautique |
Posted By: Tim D
Date Posted: January-04-2016 at 7:52pm
Rail shadow line? Rail bump?  ------------- Tim D |
Posted By: 81nautique
Date Posted: January-04-2016 at 8:22pm
I've been holding off answering until I get a chance to go and look at the boat again this weekend but sometimes these things take on a life of their own so here is what I know. The boat I picked up was all white (off white) when built. when it went to NJ the bottom was painted by the Cleary's . Leo said it was white with a red boot stripe. Leo says the boat in both photos is #1, does that mean the prototype or production boat #1 I don't actually know but I believe he is referencing the prototype. As to the windshield, I will look for signs of other mounting holes. There are some patched holes where the windshield side frame attaches to the deck but I didn't put that together in my head until all the windshield talk started and I wanted to verify this before saying anything about it. This may confirm that the boat was built with a deluxe windshield and it was changed at a later date. The interior is an Aqua color and is how it was upholstered and interior painted. Leo painted the interior panels himself. The seat cushions I rec'd from the Cleary's are the second set the boat has ever had and Mark Cleary told me they were exact duplicates of the original. The cushions are in very good condition due to being stored indoors for 20 years. The spray rails may have been added after that picture either by Bob Cleary(which I doubt) or by Leo as they were testing the boat. It was after all a "Prototype Test boat" as stated in Leo's letter to Bob so maybe they added them while getting to know the boat and how it handled. As to the authenticity of the statement that this boat is the first boat out of the mold I can only go back to the letter Leo wrote to Bob in the 90's. He states quite clearly that the boat he sold to Bob was the first prototype test hull to come out of the mold built by Bob Conn. Bob Conn built the mold and one boat, after that Leo contracted with another boat builder to build 12 more. If there is an error in referencing boat #1 it's more likely that William Grimditch bought boat #2, Leo distinctly separates the prototype from the production boat though and considers the Grimditch boat to be the first production boat sold. William Grimditch for nostalgia sake also bought the #2 Mastercraft Bob Shirley built 8 years later. To go off on a real tangent I restored Mastercraft hull #13 many years ago. My last thought on the prototype is that it was sold to Bob Cleary with the intent that he was going to try to sell the boat to dealerships in the Northeast, his first draft sales letter shows that. You could say Bob Cleary was the first promo boat owner, unfortunalety that opportunity evaporated when Leo sold the mold and name to Correct craft. That's all I got for now but I'll keep digging and add info as I find it. |
Posted By: Gary S
Date Posted: January-04-2016 at 10:55pm
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Very interesting history Alan. One thing never mentioned and I hope you realize is that this boat obviously is a saltwater boat. If that becomes a problem,put me first on the list to dispose of it for you ------------- http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=1711&sort=&pagenum=1&yrstart=1966&yrend=1970" rel="nofollow - 69 Mustang HM SS 95 Nautique Super Sport |
Posted By: tommer12
Date Posted: January-04-2016 at 11:07pm
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Amazing story! I moved to the Carolinas just a few years ago. Been down to Hilton Head many times. You must have rolled right past us in Fort Mill on your way to Moorseville. That would have been a sight to see! We will be watching for updates here.. cant wait to hear all about it. ------------- 84 SN, 92 SNOB, 2005 SANTE 2006 SN 206 |
Posted By: lewy2001
Date Posted: January-04-2016 at 11:38pm
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It is the first boat out of the mold. I would say since we use a base ten numbering system it would be #1 if we used a binary or hexadecimal system it would be #0 ------------- If you're going through hell, keep going http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=2999" rel="nofollow - 89 Ski <a href="http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=5685" ta |
Posted By: Old skier
Date Posted: January-05-2016 at 12:39am
Great find. Art is the person that can get down to the true history of the Gen 1 Ski Nautiques. I have a 1964 SN 1378, and though it is not one of Leo's first boats, it is about as untouched survivor as you can get for a Gen 1 Correct Craft Ski Nautique. I am the second owner of the boat, and Art Cozier has helped me document it's history. I have the boat located up in Northern Wisconsin right now (in storage). Still has all the original panels, floor, and engine. If you need to look at it, during your restoration, I would make it available.
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Posted By: ArtCozier
Date Posted: January-05-2016 at 12:53am
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Whoa, time out for a bit of clarification: The boat at the factory is NOT a Leo Bentz boat. It is ONE OF the first that was built by CC after we took possession of the molds. We don't know whether it was THE first, but was very early.. The Cleary boat was in fact the first built by Leo. I sat with Leo last June and discussed a lot of details about the transfer, etc. He clearly remembers dealing with and selling the boat to Mr. Cleary. He is now 92, healthy as can be, still plays some tennis, and is still a practicing attorney! More later after I have had time to read the above more thoroughly, it's 'waaaay past my bedtime ------------- "Art" |
Posted By: skutsch
Date Posted: January-05-2016 at 1:51am
Wow I would like to come see this, and maybe I will tow my Dad's up to line them up next to one another. Dad's is also pretty much untouched or at least could be put back to untouched with a swap of cushions (minus the carpet and floor). Who knew there was another Gen 1 so close to his which is located in Dubuque, IA. BTW, Dad's is a little older then your with hull ID SN1330...  Sorry for thread jack... ------------- Our http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=4669" rel="nofollow - 98 Sport Nautique My Dad's 63 Ski N |
Posted By: btmachone
Date Posted: January-05-2016 at 2:03am
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Hey Alan, not really a CC guy but joined to follow this restoration. Saw it shared on facebook. Definitely a dream find! Can't wait to see it brought back to life, and love the dedication to putting it back as close to original as possible. You've mentioned a couple of past restoration projects through the thread. Any chance you could share a little of your past work for those of us that are new to the page? Thanks, and looking forward to seeing more! Wow! ------------- Ben |
Posted By: groovin
Date Posted: January-05-2016 at 2:35am
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So awesome for you both! Congrats! ------------- |
Posted By: IAughtNaut
Date Posted: January-05-2016 at 3:04am
http://www.correctcraftfan.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=12350&PN=1&title=1955-cc-hurricane-restoration" rel="nofollow - hurricane Alan, just awesome. Can't wait for more. ------------- bring the ruckus http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=5347" rel="nofollow - 2000 Pro Air |
Posted By: Kristof
Date Posted: January-05-2016 at 5:30am
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Just read through the four pages of history, comments and so on... Alan, nothing but respect for your continuous effort to save and preserve a piece of history. And also putting so much effort on sharing every step of this process with us! I took me three mugs of coffee to read these four pages... Now off to my fourth ------------- - Gun control means: using BOTH hands! - Money doesn't make one happy, but when it rains cats and dogs, it's still better to cry in a Porsche than on a bicycle... |
Posted By: 81nautique
Date Posted: January-05-2016 at 10:53am
Wow beautiful boat Thank you |
Posted By: btmachone
Date Posted: January-05-2016 at 11:17am
Wow! The transformation of the Hurricane is unreal! This is going to be exciting to watch. ------------- Ben |
Posted By: quinner
Date Posted: January-05-2016 at 11:56am
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Numero Uno certainly could not have ended up in more capable hands and as a result will remain a piece of waterskiing history throughout most of our lifetimes, how great is that!!! Congrats Alan & Dana :) And how cool is it going to be when you take Bob and Leo for a spin down memory lane once she is done, truly will be a masters moment!! ------------- http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=1143" rel="nofollow - Mi Bowt |
Posted By: scootdogydog
Date Posted: January-05-2016 at 12:16pm
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Alan and Dana -congrats on the purchase; looks like a great boat to be restored, with a ton of history; it makes for a terrific story. I remember this being discussed at Greg's, and saw your eyes light up, while being polite and not stealing the boat from others who had noted an interest before you. I'm excited to see the journey you take her on. ------------- http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=7183" rel="nofollow - 1999 Python 1980 Ski Tique 1968 Mustang WIP |
Posted By: hondaprlud
Date Posted: January-05-2016 at 3:54pm
| Wow! Very very cool find! Can't wait to see the followup pics. |
Posted By: nautique frk
Date Posted: January-05-2016 at 5:22pm
| Alan, Congrats !! This is amazing ! cannot wait to follow your restoration |
Posted By: skicat
Date Posted: January-06-2016 at 12:13am
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Damn Allen I wish I would have known. I was at our condo in Hilton Head and had extra bedrooms or could have met and helped out. ------------- Greg http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=2427&yrstart=1981&yrend=1985" rel="nofollow - 86 BFN |