1999 Ski Nautique Open Bow Project Boat

[NautiqueJeff]

Spent the day replacing the last couple of parts that were not like new. I put on a new starter today, after replacing the starter relay twice. I forgot that I did it last year, and I was still getting the dreaded click, click, start, so I ordered another new one and replaced it again before I remembered that I had already replaced it on that boat. Oh well, at least I kept the old new one as a spare. I finally replaced the starter today, and it starts beautifully every time now.

I also replaced the steering cable today. I must say, a new steering cable makes a boat feel brand new. The whole thing just seems smoother now, and the steering is effortless. If your steering cable needs to be replaced, check out my steering cable replacement thread in the DIY section. That thread is from when I replaced the cable on my old 1998 Ski Nautique, but the replacement procedure on this boat was exactly the same.

I will refinish the swim platform this weekend, and then I think this boat will be for sale. I have had it for over a year now, taking my time with the restoration so that I could enjoy the boat with my family. During that time I have put about 25 hours on it. It now has 502 hours and runs beautifully. I'll miss this one when it is gone, but I will have another Ski Nautique soon I am sure.

[NautiqueJeff]

Just finished restoring the teak swim platform.

I started by sanding the entire thing with 80 grit sandpaper. I like to use 80 grit because that leaves a little texture on the platform for grip.

I then used compressed air and a brush to remove all of the dust from sanding.

I followed up with a heavy coat of Starbright teak oil. I'll let that soak in for a few hours, and then apply probably ten to fifteen more lighter coats of oil over the next few days. With the neglect this platform has seen I expect it to soak in quite a bit.

Here are the progression pictures.

[ScooterMcgavin]

That platform turned out real nice !

[NautiqueJeff]

Thanks! I think so too.

Here it is on the boat. This is with three coats of oil. I'll keep oiling it until it stops absorbing it.