Tollycraft/Mercury

Tollycraft/Mercury 13 years 1 month ago #40750

Neil
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I just talked to a gentleman tonight about a little (16'-17') Tollycraft wooden boat with a Mercury tower on it.
He said that he bought the boat new in 1960 and it had a Mercury six cylinder motor on it that did not have a gearshift. It just goes when you start it. He said he ran it for a year and in 1961 he traded it for another six cylinder Mercury that had a gearshift.
He said that is the motor that is still on the boat. He said he did alot of fishing and playing with the kids with it and when they grew up, he put it in the barn. He thinks it was around 1980.
I talked with his daughter and she said they would pull it out of the barn this weekend and take some pictures of it and send them to me. It is for sale because they are moving and he said make me an offer.
What is a guy to do?

Neil

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Re:Tollycraft/Mercury 13 years 1 month ago #40753

Waterwings Offline Contributing Member Posts: 4887 Karma: 107 Thank you received: 100	I know EXACTLY what a guy is to do.......GO GET IT!!!!!!!!!!!!Neil it's right up your alley, Stack six tower of power, probably cloud white, my favorite, AND it's a woody!!!!!!!!!!!!! You can start small and go bigger later. Bob Check this box to be notified of replies to this topic. Note: BBcode and smileys are still usable.
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Re:Tollycraft/Mercury 13 years 1 month ago #40834

frog Offline Platinum Boarder Posts: 1431 Karma: 59 Thank you received: 3	neil, just were do you live? as i'am going to sell my place and move there, so i can get in on these boat deals. lol all we have here are rotted out tri hulls. grab it up, sounds like a nice project. frog Check this box to be notified of replies to this topic. Note: BBcode and smileys are still usable.
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Re:Tollycraft/Mercury 13 years 1 month ago #41054

Neil Topic Author Offline Platinum Boarder Posts: 1997 Karma: 65 Thank you received: 1	Well Frog, I am in central Idaho. Come on out. Here are the only three pics that they sent. Looks pretty promising. Attachments: Check this box to be notified of replies to this topic. Note: BBcode and smileys are still usable.
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Re:Tollycraft/Mercury 13 years 1 month ago #41056

g3jim Offline Platinum Boarder Posts: 1009 Karma: -27 Thank you received: 0	nice boat Check this box to be notified of replies to this topic. Note: BBcode and smileys are still usable.
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Re:Tollycraft/Mercury 13 years 1 month ago #41078

Waterwings Offline Contributing Member Posts: 4887 Karma: 107 Thank you received: 100	Neil, She's definitely a beauty, you should go for it. Don't you just love peer pressure. She looks great with the beautiful Cloud White Merc hanging on the back Bob Check this box to be notified of replies to this topic. Note: BBcode and smileys are still usable.
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Re:Tollycraft/Mercury 13 years 1 month ago #41098

bobo Offline Gold Boarder Posts: 549 Karma: 22 Thank you received: 0	Is the guy thinking reasonably ?? If so its a nice looking boat ..Did you ever go get that Jet Boat you posted about on here .?? Check this box to be notified of replies to this topic. Note: BBcode and smileys are still usable.
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Re:Tollycraft/Mercury 13 years 1 month ago #41105

Neil
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I had to pass on the old jet Larry, way to far.
I am going to go and give this one the once over though.
I already have two co-workers saying they want it if I don't.
Perhaps they are getting the "fever" too!
I have a shop full of boats that get very little attention as it is, what in the world am I still shopping for.
I found this 50 miles away, kooky huh? lewiston.craigslist.org/boa/2545726970.html [/url]
I JUST CAN'T STOP!!!
Neil

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Re:Tollycraft/Mercury 13 years 1 month ago #41109

MarkS Offline Moderator Posts: 5348 Karma: 118 Thank you received: 5	I have a shop full of boats that get very little attention as it is, what in the world am I still shopping for............................I JUST CAN'T STOP!!! A couple options Neil, either an awning over a new "pre-staging" area, or double deck 'em inside! LOL Check this box to be notified of replies to this topic. Note: BBcode and smileys are still usable.
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Re:Tollycraft/Mercury 13 years 1 month ago #41111

Neil Topic Author Offline Platinum Boarder Posts: 1997 Karma: 65 Thank you received: 1	Thanks Mark. I gotta do something. But I have picked up a couple of "not so pedestrian" boats. It will slow down, it is getting late in the season here. Sure would like to be working on this little Tolly over the winter though! Neil Check this box to be notified of replies to this topic. Note: BBcode and smileys are still usable.
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Re:Tollycraft/Mercury 13 years 1 month ago #41113

MarkS Offline Moderator Posts: 5348 Karma: 118 Thank you received: 5	I do hear her calling your name, Neil. She's a beauty for sure. I don't know squat about woodies, (always lookin' to learn, though), but that one looks NICE! Check this box to be notified of replies to this topic. Note: BBcode and smileys are still usable.
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Re:Tollycraft/Mercury 13 years 1 month ago #41115

Neil
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I really don't know squat about them either. But I have been a woodworker for a time, and I understand it.
If this gentleman parked it in his shed in 1980 and the boat is a 1960, well, there are 20 seasons of use. I have to go and check it out.
I am hoping at this point that he took good care of it during those years of use.
Neil

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Re:Tollycraft/Mercury 13 years 1 month ago #41125

63 Sabre
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Be careful of a woodie that's been in the barn for 20+ years.
Wood rots, even out of water, ants, other critters making their home in it. Check out the transom, especially near the bottom where some water might have sat. Brass screws become weak with age and have a tendancy to snap off under pressure or work loose. Wood looses its "spring" when it dries out. Check her out real good. The up side is that it looks well maintained and not abused. She looks like a beauty and definately a find, worth a reasonable price. Good luck on your decision.
Cal

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Re:Tollycraft/Mercury 13 years 1 month ago #41126

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I was in the same boat, no pun intended, when I redid my boat AND bought the Century. I had been around them most of my childhood on the lake but never really owned one. After redoing the Mahogany topside of mine I decided what the heck on the Century,I always wanted a Chris Craft, Century or Garwood anyway. The Don Dannenburg book is great and was only $24.95 on Amazon I think. Great reading and plenty of pics. You have the expertise, give her a good going over and if there's nothing major, get her. She'd make a GREAT winter project. We can commiserate together when I start on the Century.

Bob

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Re:Tollycraft/Mercury 13 years 1 month ago #41129

63 Sabre Offline Contributing Member Posts: 4676 Karma: 147 Thank you received: 167	HiJack--OK Bob, what Century? My avatar is a 18' Century Sabre, my baby, daily driver that took 2 1/2 years to redo with Don's book. Check this box to be notified of replies to this topic. Note: BBcode and smileys are still usable.
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Re:Tollycraft/Mercury 13 years 1 month ago #41137

Waterwings Offline Contributing Member Posts: 4887 Karma: 107 Thank you received: 100	Quick response, Cal it's in the woody section "Look what followed me home yesterday" thread. Bob Check this box to be notified of replies to this topic. Note: BBcode and smileys are still usable.
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Re:Tollycraft/Mercury 13 years 1 month ago #41141

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Hi Neil,
Obviously I'm a glassic guy being on this site and all, BUT, I have been looking for a woodie outboard to restore. This looks like a decent one. I have Mercs up the ying yang so don't really need another, I'd take it of course but, am thinking that maybe someone would want the motor and we could share purchase price. I'm in Massachuetts but have had luck shipping via u-ship.
If you are not interested then maybe I cna get the contact info?
Thanks,
Randy

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Re:Tollycraft/Mercury 13 years 1 month ago #41143

Waterwings Offline Contributing Member Posts: 4887 Karma: 107 Thank you received: 100	Randy, you have mail. Bob Check this box to be notified of replies to this topic. Note: BBcode and smileys are still usable.
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Re:Tollycraft/Mercury 13 years 1 month ago #41194

Neil
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Thank you for all of your input guys, that is what makes this site so unique. People from all walks doing the same thing in all parts of the world. How cool is that?
My plan is to go give this old girl a going over this weekend. I have had visiting relatives and they are leaving so my bride and I will get to go look at this gem, finally.
You then will see lots of pics of course.
Neil

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Re:Tollycraft/Mercury 13 years 1 month ago #41200

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The Tollycrafts were built in Kelso Washington and are generally a very well built boat. The typical construction is plywood over frames and then a skin of fiberglass applied at the factory. Your second picture above shows where the glass has pulled from the wood at a dock ding on the front deck(very common, my boat has several from the previous owner). You have to look very close to even see the cloth weave. The decks are pinstriped over the wood and under the glass. Usually fiberglass on a wood boat is the kiss of death. This usually applies to plank on frame construction where the wood is moving and the glass cracks trapping water. It is fairly common to see glass on a plywood hull. Check the decks and hull sides carefully as sanding can be a very delicate task when dealing with plywood veneers. Other than that, bring along a small awl or ice pick and gently feel along the keel, transom, and frames. If it was stored in a dry place there should be no problems but better to find them now than once you and your bride are out for your first cruise! There is some information at this site Tolly-Classified but not a whole lot. You can call Gordon there and he is a wealth of information.

Good luck and keep us posted!

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Re:Tollycraft/Mercury 13 years 1 month ago #41873

Waterwings Offline Contributing Member Posts: 4887 Karma: 107 Thank you received: 100	Ok Neil, did you give her a once over? Is she in your stable now? Do tell, inquiring minds want to know. Bob Check this box to be notified of replies to this topic. Note: BBcode and smileys are still usable.
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Re:Tollycraft/Mercury 13 years 1 month ago #41895

Neil Topic Author Offline Platinum Boarder Posts: 1997 Karma: 65 Thank you received: 1	Here she is. Attachments: Check this box to be notified of replies to this topic. Note: BBcode and smileys are still usable.
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Re:Tollycraft/Mercury 13 years 1 month ago #41920

MarkS Offline Moderator Posts: 5348 Karma: 118 Thank you received: 5	She looks pretty pristine for her age Neil, congratulations on scoring another beauty! Check this box to be notified of replies to this topic. Note: BBcode and smileys are still usable.
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Re:Tollycraft/Mercury 13 years 1 month ago #41924

Neil Topic Author Offline Platinum Boarder Posts: 1997 Karma: 65 Thank you received: 1	Well Mark, I did not buy it. I am still in negotiations. They seem to be asking quite a chunck. But it is not out of the question yet. Neil Check this box to be notified of replies to this topic. Note: BBcode and smileys are still usable.
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Re:Tollycraft/Mercury 13 years 1 month ago #41968

MarkS Offline Moderator Posts: 5348 Karma: 118 Thank you received: 5	ooppss, sorry I hope I didn't just jinx your deal. That Merc looks almost new under the wrap. Check this box to be notified of replies to this topic. Note: BBcode and smileys are still usable.
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Re:Tollycraft/Mercury 13 years 1 month ago #41970

Neil
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No Mark, no jinx. The guy who owns it is going through some major health issues. He is also moving off of his lifelong family farm into elderly housing. So mentally and physically this gentleman is going through a very tough time. I am walking softly. He said that he has had only about ten calls on the boat and I am the only one to come and look at it. A plus for me.
And yes, the inside of the wrap is perfect. The brown plastic insulation is not discolored or burnt or tore in any way. The decals on the hat are sharp and original. All is correct and in its place. This is a low hour motor for sure.
I will keep everyone here posted on this. I am hoping that all turns out well for him and this boat.
And Randy, if this does not happen for me, I will contact you and do all I can if you can get this gem.
Neil

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Re:Tollycraft/Mercury 13 years 1 month ago #41997

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Hi Neil,
Appreciate ya keeping me in mind. Not trying to horn in on your deal. If it's the Merc you wnat then maybe we can still deal. I do not need another Merc! (of course I would welcome one) I have a few shorties I could put together for it, maybe even a Dockbuster.
mY number is 978-808-6214.
Randy

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Re:Tollycraft/Mercury 13 years 1 month ago #42011

Waterwings Offline Contributing Member Posts: 4887 Karma: 107 Thank you received: 100	She's a beaut Neil. I hope it works out for you. Randy, did you get my E-mail to you? Bob Check this box to be notified of replies to this topic. Note: BBcode and smileys are still usable.
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Re:Tollycraft/Mercury 13 years 1 month ago #42676

Neil Topic Author Offline Platinum Boarder Posts: 1997 Karma: 65 Thank you received: 1	It sold this weekend, but not to me. Hope it went to a good home. Check this box to be notified of replies to this topic. Note: BBcode and smileys are still usable.
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Re:Tollycraft/Mercury 13 years 1 month ago #42765

Waterwings Offline Contributing Member Posts: 4887 Karma: 107 Thank you received: 100	Sorry to hear that Neil. Don't worry there's a woody out there with your name on it. Bob Check this box to be notified of replies to this topic. Note: BBcode and smileys are still usable.
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Re:Tollycraft/Mercury 13 years 1 month ago #43081

Neil
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Well guys, the deal fell through and it looks like I will be buying this old girl after all. I am taking a trailer and will pick it up on Sunday. Can't wait.
I will have more pics on Tuesday for y'all.
I will submit some pics to Ron also for the calendar.
That would be way cool to have it in the calendar as a untouched relic that has been sitting for 31 years. They are original only once. For my wife and I this is the once in a life time that you can't let go by. When I first heard that it sold my heart sank. When I made the offer to them I thought they were a little high on the asking price and it was out of my budget. I called them back later with another offer and they said it had sold.
But it must have been in the cards to be mine because the deal did not go through and they called me. I was staggered. I was also jazzed about sharing the good news her. So, good things come to those who wait.
Neil

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Re:Tollycraft/Mercury 13 years 1 month ago #43095

MarkS Offline Moderator Posts: 5348 Karma: 118 Thank you received: 5	So, good things come to those who wait. And "to good people", I might add! That's awesome Neil, congrats. (I *was* feeling pretty bad about the jinx thing, LOL). Check this box to be notified of replies to this topic. Note: BBcode and smileys are still usable.
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Re:Tollycraft/Mercury 13 years 1 month ago #43100

Waterwings Offline Contributing Member Posts: 4887 Karma: 107 Thank you received: 100	Neil, That's AWESOME, I am so happy for you, you just don't know! That's a cool boat and now belongs to a well deserving individual who will care for her. Bob Check this box to be notified of replies to this topic. Note: BBcode and smileys are still usable.
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TOPIC: Tollycraft/Mercury