Complete Aluminum Mod V Fishing Boat Rebuild - 14' Mirrocraft - From Start to Finish

Exclusively from FishinFX, this is a complete look at the process to strip down and rebuild an aluminum fishing boat.
Step 1: Remove everything and strip off oxidation: 0:27
Step 2&3: Flip boat and strip paint and oxidation: 1:11
Step 4: Spray self-etching primer: 2:19
Step 5: Spray finish coats: 2:56
Step 6: Use brazing rod and torch to repair broken items: 5:15
Step 7: Install decking and storage: 5:55
Final Step: Finished boat in action 10:08
This is a 14' MIrrocraft built in the late-1960s.
We started by removing all fixtures like seats, bow and transom braces, oar locks, and the transom board itself. Then used a wire wheel and CitriStrip paint stripper to remove all paint and oxidation. After that, we wiped the boat clean with vinegar, and sprayed it wioth Rust-Oleum Self-Etching primer. To paint the boat, we used an HVLP sprayer from SPRAYIT loaded with Majic Tractor Paint (beige) and Rust-Oleum (green), both spiced up with Majic Catalyst and Majic Hardener.
For the interior, we put our building skills to use and fashioned a complete decking system, using the old seat support to help, and we also build rod and tackle lockers.
Please hit us with questions -we'd love to chat - and of course check us out at FishinFX.com and Instagram fishin_fx.
Music by HookSounds.com.

Пікірлер: 85

  • @tonyvaldivia7300
    @tonyvaldivia73003 жыл бұрын

    Boat interiors wear out. It's the nature of the beast. And for those of us who don't want to spend to buy a new(er) boat, this is the route one takes and I commend you for the work you did and money you saved! YOWZA!!

  • @jonstorm2219

    @jonstorm2219

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks! Worth it for sure!

  • @WitchDRofKabul
    @WitchDRofKabul2 жыл бұрын

    Very cool. Love what you did. This looks much easier to fish from versus three bench seats and an uneven floor 😂. Had to be a ton of work, but hey, bigger reward

  • @johndcoutureii9193
    @johndcoutureii91935 жыл бұрын

    Nice job fella"s! You guy"s are having fun now.

  • @jonstorm2219

    @jonstorm2219

    5 жыл бұрын

    John Couture II yes we are!!!

  • @MadebyCaldwell
    @MadebyCaldwell10 ай бұрын

    This was an awesome video!

  • @jonstorm2219

    @jonstorm2219

    10 ай бұрын

    Hey thanks!

  • @oxman1834
    @oxman18342 жыл бұрын

    I just picked up a old Delcraft. Has the transom welded to the hullside and hull bottom. I was amazed at that. Not riveted together like so many.!!

  • @jonstorm2219

    @jonstorm2219

    2 жыл бұрын

    That’s cool!

  • @theweswillard
    @theweswillard5 жыл бұрын

    Great job!

  • @jonstorm2219

    @jonstorm2219

    5 жыл бұрын

    Hey thanks!

  • @vinhha6073
    @vinhha60733 жыл бұрын

    I wish I can have $$$ and get a use boat.. and bring my son to fish... I respect you as a super good father, and a very good and handsome young man there...👍👍

  • @fishinfx3072

    @fishinfx3072

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for the great comment. Lots of great fishing in streams and ponds - don’t ever let a boat keep you from fishing. Kayaks and canoes are another option!

  • @JohnDoe-jc3cl

    @JohnDoe-jc3cl

    3 жыл бұрын

    Vinh Get a used 12 or 14 footer for you and your son. They only run about $4-500. Less than 1 week of work. ! Don’t let anything stop you. I’m 55 and going to buy one.

  • @slabhunter3072
    @slabhunter30724 жыл бұрын

    This is a real nice video good stuff

  • @fishinfx3072

    @fishinfx3072

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thanks slab hunter! It’s a great boat for crappie and bull bluegill

  • @earlmcginty5355
    @earlmcginty53553 жыл бұрын

    My Mirrocraft has been fully restored like yours even the colors are the same except I have white on top and green on the bottom. Mine is a real looker.

  • @fishinfx3072

    @fishinfx3072

    3 жыл бұрын

    Wow man that’s really cool!! Can you share some pics or a vid?

  • @waynebrown1609
    @waynebrown16093 жыл бұрын

    Awesome

  • @fishinfx3072

    @fishinfx3072

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks!

  • @timbiffis6306
    @timbiffis63068 ай бұрын

    I have the same boat Did you lose a little integrity with the middle seat bench gone as a cross support? Looks great and practical Im thinking of doing a walk-through also. Thanks

  • @30secondswithDan
    @30secondswithDan4 жыл бұрын

    Great job! I have a vhull also but the sides aren’t as tall. Do you think I’ll be able to do something similar?

  • @fishinfx3072

    @fishinfx3072

    3 жыл бұрын

    I would think so, yes!

  • @nicks1294
    @nicks12942 жыл бұрын

    Love the build, I have a very similar boat I’m redoing, it’s a 14’ sea nymph. How is the paint holding up on the exterior? I’m going to be doing the exterior of the boat in a couple months and plan on using the same primer and probably total boat paint

  • @jonstorm2219

    @jonstorm2219

    Жыл бұрын

    The exterior is holding up reasonably well. It’s rubs off in spots with harsh contact, like when tied up to docks. If I did it again I would definitely run a few clear coats on top of the paint for protection. Thanks for the question and good luck!

  • @UncannyCheeto
    @UncannyCheeto2 жыл бұрын

    Do you have more pictures of how you did the middle section base floor? I have a Vhull boat that i am not sure how to secure a floor to. The interior looks similar to yours but my ribs down come up the sides as far.

  • @fishinfx3072

    @fishinfx3072

    2 жыл бұрын

    Let me check the video

  • @darrengillesdarrengilles8336
    @darrengillesdarrengilles83362 жыл бұрын

    Hm it's a small boat I think after watching this I would have scrapped the 2x4's and gone with 1" alum tubing for everything to maximize space I would also have used expanding foam in the nooks crannies and under floor, nice job overall.

  • @fishinfx3072

    @fishinfx3072

    2 жыл бұрын

    Tubing would be great. But for me it was a cost and time issue. I’m a good carpenter so wood was more natural. And I trailer the boat, and keep inside or under good cover, so there’s been zero degradation with the wood over 5-plus years. Looks like the day I finished it!

  • @shortcircuit2001
    @shortcircuit20012 жыл бұрын

    Great work! I am in the works of an old starcraft. Did you replace transom with plywood or dimensional lumber?

  • @jonstorm2219

    @jonstorm2219

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thanks! I replaced it with a doug fir dimensional lumber finished on all sides before installing with min wax spar urethane.

  • @user-ko8pw3jo3n
    @user-ko8pw3jo3n5 жыл бұрын

    I like what you did with the boat. I have a 10' mirrocraft I'd like to fix up. Did you have benches in the boat before you fixed it up? Mine does, and I'd like to know how they installed them because I have to cut out some metal on the bench to remove them. The benches have foam in them that keep the boat afloat if it tips so I'm a little Leary about removing them.

  • @fishinfx3072

    @fishinfx3072

    5 жыл бұрын

    J 33 yes the boat had bench seats - three of them. You can see the original boat in the first part of the video. They were held in by brackets. I unscrewed the benches from the brackets, then drilled out the rivers and relocated the brackets as needed. In the rear I actually reattached the bench and attached plywood on top of it. The benches keep the boat pulled together, so if you remove one, you need to replace it with some type of cross-tie or lengthwise stabilizer. I took the foam from underneath the seats and packed it under the seats and deck. The boat still floats if filled with water (tested it).

  • @user-ko8pw3jo3n

    @user-ko8pw3jo3n

    5 жыл бұрын

    @@fishinfx3072 Thank you for the info, that was important information I need to know. I was going to take out one of the benches and hadn't even thought about the structural support that it provided.

  • @pedrogomez3168
    @pedrogomez31683 жыл бұрын

    Awesome. Say question for you did you sand over the bottom rivets?? How did you get the bottom to shine before you painted? I find that sanding shaves the rivet . Was that the cause for you as well ?

  • @fishinfx3072

    @fishinfx3072

    3 жыл бұрын

    No, I used a wire wheel

  • @stevencarter9296
    @stevencarter92965 жыл бұрын

    Any issue with weight or stability with all the wood? What kind of wood did you use

  • @fishinfx3072

    @fishinfx3072

    5 жыл бұрын

    Regarding weight, it of course sits a bit lower, but not appreciably. A full sheet of 1/2-inch marine plywood weights 42 pounds. Use two and a few 2x4s and you’re only adding about 100 pounds.

  • @Hawaiibohntr
    @Hawaiibohntr3 жыл бұрын

    How much weight did you add (just a guess) I load mine in the back of my pickup truck it's a 12 foot Gamefisher and me at #280 it's really unstable. Hopefully by adding weight should stabilize it some, but being to heavy to load is a concern, the only level spot besides the back yard is my driveway, so I have no room for a trailer.

  • @fishinfx3072

    @fishinfx3072

    3 жыл бұрын

    Maybe 150 pounds? That’s without the trolling motor mount and stuff. Definitely stick to marine plywood if weight is a concern. It’s the lightest!

  • @JT-bl2gd
    @JT-bl2gd4 жыл бұрын

    What type of framing did you put under the plywood sub flooring on the V hull? I see what you did at the Bow with aluminum framing. I am just wondering what’s underneath the floor and how it’s secured?

  • @jonstorm2219

    @jonstorm2219

    4 жыл бұрын

    J T I used aluminum angle secured to the ribs - same thing I did under the casting deck, except the angle was only a few inches above the floor of the boat. I set the plywood in, marked each side in the ribs, took the plywood out, then ran a line from mark to mark and figured where exactly to put the angle for each rib.

  • @JT-bl2gd

    @JT-bl2gd

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much for the reply. As far as the type of aluminum angle, did you use 1/16 or 1/8? My boat is a 16 foot deep V hull with three bench seats. Structurally, is there an issue with removing one of these seats?

  • @jonstorm2219

    @jonstorm2219

    4 жыл бұрын

    J T I’m traveling but will check on the size aluminum. Yes the bench seats are critical for structure - they stabilize the sides. I overcame that by leaving the bow and stern bench brackets in place, then using them to tie in the bow and rear. The I stabilized the middle with storage areas.

  • @Backwater-wanderer
    @Backwater-wanderer4 жыл бұрын

    In regards to the foam in the benches, did you reuse the same foam? And the same amount? Thanks! Your boat looks great

  • @jonstorm2219

    @jonstorm2219

    4 жыл бұрын

    Yep, I reused the foam from under the seats. And we did have a disaster when an unknown road hazard punctured the side. We launched and the boat filled with water about 1/3 and still floated. You could also spray expanding foam under their floor or deck. Just be careful. It’s powerful stuff and it could blow out your rivers if it doesn’t have a place to expand. I also think the wood helps float the boat for a bit too.

  • @Backwater-wanderer

    @Backwater-wanderer

    4 жыл бұрын

    @@jonstorm2219 thanks for the tip! Looking forward to upgrading my mirrocraft. I definitely will subscribe!

  • @JohnDoe-jc3cl

    @JohnDoe-jc3cl

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@jonstorm2219 Thanks for the tip on using great stuff for replacing old rotted styrofoam. I plan on getting an old rowboat and storing it out in the yard. Animals like to destroy that stuff. Great stuff also works if you’re filling a hole in a wall and you just want to skim coat it with mortar or cement.

  • @brianchisnell1548
    @brianchisnell15482 жыл бұрын

    Modified Vee if it is flat bottomed at the stern.

  • @jonstorm2219

    @jonstorm2219

    2 жыл бұрын

    True!

  • @xcaliberwolf6090
    @xcaliberwolf60904 жыл бұрын

    I wish I could find another cheap boat like this. I restored a 1953 larson 14ft with wood side rails and gunnels. Total cost is around 1000 for the boat, trailer, motor, and all the supplies. If u want I can send some pictures of it.

  • @fishinfx3072

    @fishinfx3072

    4 жыл бұрын

    Yeah I’d love to see it! And you’re right, these old boats are actually pretty expensive, although they might come down I price given the current economic conditions.

  • @xcaliberwolf6090

    @xcaliberwolf6090

    4 жыл бұрын

    @@fishinfx3072 do you have an instagram or facebook or email?

  • @dallaserickson4146
    @dallaserickson41464 жыл бұрын

    What kind of brazing rod did you use with propane torch? I got some brazing rods that I couldn't even melt with map gas.

  • @jonstorm2219

    @jonstorm2219

    4 жыл бұрын

    I used a Hobart 1/8” aluminum, which I believe I purchased at tractor supply. Make sure you heat the work, not the rod. If your rod won’t melt when you touch it to the work, you can cheat a little and direct the flame at the tip of the rod, but only for a second or two.

  • @dallaserickson4146

    @dallaserickson4146

    4 жыл бұрын

    @@jonstorm2219 Thanks. I've braze welded with oxy but no luck with lower heat gas. Pre flux coated? Be good to have in truck while out. I accidentally put hole in uncle's little John boat years ago and tried fixing it with a rubber worm.

  • @jonstorm2219

    @jonstorm2219

    4 жыл бұрын

    Dallas Erickson no flux

  • @ryanmclaughlin8708
    @ryanmclaughlin87084 жыл бұрын

    How did you install the wood side rails at 7:00?

  • @jonstorm2219

    @jonstorm2219

    4 жыл бұрын

    Ryan Mclaughlin I used lag bolts with washers - they were either 1/4 or 3/8 - installed from the outside so they suck the wood tight against the sides. Be generous with the silicone before you tighten them down. Still watertight after 3 years. You want the edge of the 2x4 to stabilize the boat side, like a floor joist.

  • @ryanmclaughlin8708

    @ryanmclaughlin8708

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thanks was wondering how effective it would be at being water tight and that gives me confidence to set it up thanks again for the idea

  • @jonstorm2219

    @jonstorm2219

    4 жыл бұрын

    Ryan Mclaughlin also be sure to bring the sides in to final shape before attaching any structure. I used the tie-down strap with a come-along that you see in the photo.

  • @luis.g.vecchio
    @luis.g.vecchio3 жыл бұрын

    What kind of wheel did you use on the angle grinder

  • @jonstorm2219

    @jonstorm2219

    3 жыл бұрын

    I used this wheel from Harbor Freight: www.harborfreight.com/4-in-crimped-wire-cup-brush-60321.html?cid=paid_google|||60321&gclid=Cj0KCQjw4v2EBhCtARIsACan3nzR4ph-fn83oRtEqYUziVdyBfpNIju5V5CKDzxsyZbcY8G7AiWixR4aAg7kEALw_wcB

  • @ralphgomez78
    @ralphgomez784 жыл бұрын

    How did you secure the floor

  • @fishinfx3072

    @fishinfx3072

    3 жыл бұрын

    Sorry, somehow I missed your comment. I used aluminum angle across, riveted to the ribs, then screwed the floor to the angle.

  • @rjptrucking4598
    @rjptrucking45983 жыл бұрын

    Did you notice any flex? Been wanting to do this to a 16'

  • @jonstorm2219

    @jonstorm2219

    3 жыл бұрын

    You mean flex in the sidewalks? No I haven’t.

  • @rjptrucking4598

    @rjptrucking4598

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@jonstorm2219 do you think it'll be fine doing this to a deep v lund 16'

  • @pstrap1311
    @pstrap13114 жыл бұрын

    So, do you live in Cuba or something?

  • @nicknutting4385
    @nicknutting43855 жыл бұрын

    How wide is this boat

  • @jonstorm2219

    @jonstorm2219

    5 жыл бұрын

    Nick, I will measure and get back to you

  • @fishinfx3072

    @fishinfx3072

    5 жыл бұрын

    Nick Nutting its 60 inches inside gunnel to gunnel at midpoint

  • @barryiwashita6352
    @barryiwashita63524 жыл бұрын

    Didn’t see any protection for all that plywood from water ?... it’ll soak with water soon enough ,wouldn’t it ?

  • @jonstorm2219

    @jonstorm2219

    4 жыл бұрын

    Barry Iwashita I haven’t had any issues. Most of it is exterior grade. I trailer the boat, and use a cover when stored outside. I also used a hole saw to cut a 2” hole in the deck for ventilation and shop vac. When I have several days of sun I uncover and let it breathe, if needed.

  • @MrBassinhuntin
    @MrBassinhuntin4 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for the time and videoing your Restoration. Oh and check out my upgrades on my G3 Sportsman for more ideas at kzread.info/dash/bejne/h3Z1k6expbupitI.html

  • @jonstorm2219

    @jonstorm2219

    3 жыл бұрын

    Wow your customized G3 is awesome

  • @jtbassgambler2594
    @jtbassgambler25945 жыл бұрын

    Making boat more heavier lol this iscwhy i don't add deck

  • @pain_weaver

    @pain_weaver

    3 жыл бұрын

    Find yourself some old road signs (big ones for highway) heavy enough to support weight with framing. Less weight overall

  • @edstimator1
    @edstimator13 жыл бұрын

    OK...two seconds in....they have a tool for removing rivets in a professional manner.

  • @fishinfx3072

    @fishinfx3072

    3 жыл бұрын

    Guess I'm old school

  • @dennismosley9163
    @dennismosley91633 жыл бұрын

    I have 15 aluminium want to do the same thing want some help bro

  • @michaelbradley7529
    @michaelbradley75294 жыл бұрын

    Wow a lot of questionable technics being used in this build and all the comments are like " great job". I just don't get it.

  • @fishinfx3072

    @fishinfx3072

    3 жыл бұрын

    Okay let’s hear them. I can testify that it’s all held up. And we tested it and it floats - won’t sink. 4 years later and the boat has fished Hundreds of days all over - Quebec, Ontario, Champlain, Niagara River, Erie, Kinzua. Fish-catching machine!

  • @dennismosley9163
    @dennismosley91633 жыл бұрын

    Where are you ...lol

  • @dennismosley9163

    @dennismosley9163

    3 жыл бұрын

    But seriously where are u bro?