THE GARAGE: Thumbs-Up for a $1750 Paint Job

This is the kind of story we'd like to bring you more often. Performance boating sometimes has a reputation for being a "rich man's sport" - and at some levels, that probably true. Hauling around a 43' Nor-tech or a brand new Skater definitely takes some serious bucks - especially if you're hitting a different Poker run every other week. But the fact is, you CAN get it to the game for a reasonable amount of money by investing in a solid older boat, especially if you can do some maintenance and upgrade work yourself, or if you're willing to consider "alternative" ways to get things done.

BEFORE Photo Credit: Speedwake User - DonMan

Lake Texoma-based offshore forums user DonMan recently shared this project on SOS and Speedwake - a 1992 Python 24' - that he wanted to update in terms of looks, concentrating on new paint/graphics and interior. He also has some additional work in mind, including a new swim platform, new sound system, upholstery, gauges and pop-up cleats...plus new paint and wheels for the trailer.

AFTER Photo Credit: Speedwake User - DonMan

We just can't say enough about how Donnie's $1750 paint job turned out; it's a PPG base / clear coat over epoxy primer. So far, he's got about $1500 into re-upholstery, which turned out just as nice. He's also added a new vinyl Londeck floor covering, which should look great and be easy to maintain as well; the hull graphics are still to be worked, out, but everyone who's seen it so far agrees that the boat already looks great in it's new, crisp all-white finish. Kudos to Don for this beautiful upgrade job and if you see this boat on a Lake in Texas, be sure to tell him how sharp it looks. To see more pictures, sign up for free on SW and check out this thread.