Restoring a Neglected 40 Year Old Yacht | Ep. 1

The journey begins! We purchased a 1978* 42' Uniflite motor yacht that needed a lot of love.

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* Changed from 1984 to 1978. The title and registration says 1984 but after publishing this video someone was kind enough to let us know it's actually MY 1978!

[tommysaraullo]

Wow.. $5, 000 and it runs.. That's a awesome find.. the engines are what is important.. the rest of the Cosmetic.
Really

[markclark]

Great video and what an awesome deal you got on the Uniflite! They built amazing boats. I own a 1975 42DC on Lake of the Ozarks Missouri. Mine has 440 Chrysler gas engines. If you have any questions about your boats systems don't hesitate to ask, also the Uniflite Owners group on Facebook offers a wealth of knowledge from other owners.

[dougsmith]

FINALLY!!! A motor boat channel I can relate to. Not huge expensive power boats like everything else, not a sailboat channel but a realistic subject that an everyday boater such as myself can identify with. Because of my prosthetic foot I'm more suited to this style of boating rather than sailing. Welcome from Vancouver Island!

[dennybarlau]

It's nice to see a Motor yacht
Series you will do well as most are
Sailing boats
You are right on asking for help
From your subscribers
Nice boat electric will be a pain
But I think you know that
I'm on board
Denny from Minnesota

[ennengb]

you need to move those zinc anodes on the prop shafts, they need to be at least 6 inches ahead of the struts holding the prop shafts. there is a water lubricated bearing in those struts that will burn out due to lack of water being able to get in there

[Admin-kich]

This boat is a bargain. Do not give up on her. Back in the days these boats were made with quality. Give her the maintenance and attention she deserves and she will serve many more years. Advice: don't try to save a dollar here or there. A boat is not just a pleasure thing. When you experience a storm or heavy weather it is supposed to bring you back to safety. And I speak from my own experience. You have to respect the sea but it can be very nasty. Never underestimate it.

[jimdent]

Definition of a hole in the water that your pour money, the larger the boat, the larger the HOLE"....from a lifetime Boat Owner.

[littlejohnny]

When you got to the fact the boat had twin Detroit Diesels, I knew how very, very lucky you were! A solid hull, great engines and drives, and during the haul out - she was surprisingly good underneath! So the interior is dirty and toast in places. Easy fix if the bones are good! You won’t need it, but good luck!

[ricksmith]

The two boats next to you must have loved you guys

[allan]

YES, at last a motor yacht to watch being lovingly re-fitted, thank you so much for taking this on, it going to be epic so I really hope you continue with it while taking us along for the ride, one suggestion straight of the bat, if I may, If it is made of wood or (lumber as you say) and you can remove it, take it out and seal on all sides "including the back" with Penetrating epoxy before you paint, Thank you and good on you, I wish you all the very best, and cannot waite for more, and may I also say, your so Pretty as well, all the best from Australia, Al

[williehudson]

You guys did an awesome job I’m restoring my boat I’m about to give up you guys inspired to keep going because financially it’s killing me ❤❤❤❤

[wazzaracer]

The original press metal rocker covers on the 6-71 Detroits can be problematic for oil leaks, but there are updated cast aluminum versions most people find dont leak. She sounds very sweet on the water ))

[brucebenson]

When they brought along an experienced diesel mechanic for their first sea trials, I knew they were serious about boating the right way and hit the subscribe bell. Too many buyers of boats on the cheap just aren't safe at sea and yell for the Coast Guard right off the bat.

[Chris-zpeh]

This has been my dream for almost 30yrs. I’ve lived in Seattle for 35. That’s a fantastic boat for what you want to do. I’m really looking forward to all your upcoming adventures.

[Hitech]

You kids are hard workers.
That's the most important thing with old boats. Once your done you will know how it's made and works. That will be important when you start traveling. I wish you the best of love and luck. Congratulations.
Ps. Those 671 are great engines.

[justinlinnane]

I know its been neglected and will need a lot of work but thats a hell of a deal for a boat like this with all its bits intact, no holes and two working diesel engines !! great project . Subscribed

[qasw]

I work on yachts for a living and this thing is in pretty good shapes from immediate looks 🤷🏽‍♂️😳

[GabrealIreland]

Hey are you guys still in the Seattle area??

[BG-fmzj]

Looking forward to following along! I have done a few projects like this and boy you guys have bitten off a big one! Congrats!!!

[bertrambertram]

I recommend you check the hull and decks for moister and blisters, some of which may be covered up. Starting in 1975, Uniflite changed a fire retardant they were using and the new substance caused serious blister problems for boats manufactured from 1975 to approximately 1981.If your hull hasn't blistered yet then it most likely won't. Specifically, the problem comes from having switched fire retardant agents in their glassing process and had to change manufacturers in 1975. This is a famous story which you can learn a lot about online. The blisters in no way affected the structural integrity of the hull. Uniflite boats had a sterling reputation and if you get it in shape it you will have a fabulous boat. Also, lot of your model boats were manufactured with gasoline engines and having Diesel engines is a real plus. Please make sure the diesel fuel and tank are in good shape before going any distances. I am amazed they started right up...a real testament to those engines. I am very excited to see how your project progresses.