My brother bought a inboard outboard motor like this has. They are a nightmare. There's a lot more complexity to having basically two systems two do the same thing an outboard can as it's all in one. Then you have all the seals and custom parts that are probably impossible to get. Outboard is a plus all the way around. The extra bonus is that there will be more space and storage in the boat to. Outboards are way easier to work on to as they aren't sunken in to a cubby hole that's impossible to reach anything.
@@gtd360 There is nothing custom about those inboard engines. There is probably a million boats out there with that exact same setup. They are not fun to work on, but you really don't need to do much to them when they are in good working order. You can get at most of the things you need to to maintain them fairly easily, you just need a buddy with long skinny arms sometimes.
I am a shade tree boat mechanic. Mercruiser engines are just Chev blocks with different heads and cam. Parts are readily available and the outdrives are basically bullet proof. Check your bellows, gimbal bearings, exhaust hoses, impeller pumps etc. Most things are relatively easy to repair or replace minus the gimbals. Kind of bears to do. Make sure the outdrives get a good fluid change and pump the fluid from the bottom to the top. It eliminates air bubbles. When ever you run those engines, get those outdrives down as low as you can. The clutch dogs and u-joints don't like that extreme angle and keep them either watered with a fake a lake or submerged. Like you said, running them dry eats those rubber impellers alive! Also, make sure when you do pull the engines, the stringers are strong and true. If the pulleys are pointed towards the hull, you will overheat due to the water not being able to have the right angle of attack under water and it will cavitate at the intake strakes at FOT. The engines not being level WILL lift the outdrives up. But as soon as you drop speed, it will pick water back up and things will cool down. Keep that thing as original as possible. Its so, so DOPE!
OUTDRIVES R NOT BULLETPROOF!! I WAS STUCK 2 MILES OUTSIDE BOSTON HARBOR BACK IN 1995 RADIO WOUNDNT WORK ! AND BAD THUNDERSTORMS ALL NIGHT LONG....IT WAS THE OUTDRIVE....I.LL NEVER FORGET THAT NIGHT...
As others have said, restore it as original as possible - visually. Mechanically - put all the upgrades in it that weren’t available back then to make both the boat and van more-than-capable . As few of these that were made, fewer that are still alive today, I have to believe you’ll get a buyer for it someday who will pay more than what you put in it.
Basically what i was trying to say and ask about. You said it perfectly and answered my main question without having seen my question! 🤣🤷♂️ Thanks 👍💯🙌
@@OldCooteror a impala from like 2007 or something like that. The ss varient atleast I know they have v8s in them mine only has a v6 but I know you can find ls 3 fwd transmissions from companies and it wouldn’t be to hard probably to add a supercharged ls into that thing and get a better trans than what came with the impalas back then
fr if all else fails just put a hellcat motor in the van! or that demon motor hes putting in a jeep for some reason.. would be wayyy cooler in this van
I'd say to try to keep it as visually original as possible. Under the hood, go for broke with the upgrades. That boat on the water is quintessential '70s.
That vehicle is so unique. Only 21 ever made. Best served to try & keep it as original as possible. Overhaul the boat engines. Get rid of whatever powers the van & see if a 24 valve diesel will match up with the unique transmission the thing has, then update all the upholstery to Heavy D taste. That's my 2 cents. Do what you want, me i'd keep it original as possible except it's heartbeat. Ty for taking us along
My grandparents had a drapery and interior design business in nampa from 1955 to now (I own it now) and my grandpa had photos of the custom boat curtains they designed and manufactured for these boaterhomes My grandpa always said he wished he had bought one…😂 It’s kinda cool watching be get in the water.
This one is a one of a kind. It's the prototype. 10 feet wide, two engines, three rear axles. The production version was 8 feet wide, one engine, two rear axles.
Having front wheel drive at a boat launch is a terrible idea. Try launching that wet dream, low tide on some slime. Forget about driving anywhere but deeper in the water. Boaterhome is poorly executed great idea. These guys have a chance of making something super cool!
Being diesel guys, you might be interested to know that mercruiser marine has a marine 6.5 l Detroit that will sit right in the same place as them small blocks. Mercruiser marine makes the manifolds so they will line up with the same exhaust y pipe and use the same risers from the small block. The bell housing is the same and the motor mounts are in the exact same location so basically the only thing different is the exhaust manifolds.
@@arthurgay5746 true that, I smoked a massive elk real bad an hour down a rig road (that was already an hour to the nearest town from the entrance of) in my first obs and had to self delete my oil cooler with a length of random hose that I walked 4km to and another 4 from my rig at the time and commandeered from the tool shack to get back for work by the am and so I could leave after that day cause it was the last day. I wouldve been trapped out there after that last day with nowhere but my truck to sleep cause the other crew wouldve taken up the rooms but it ran just fine the 600+km home with just a couple hose clamps and a chunk of cheap hose I just looped back into the 2 hoses. Cant beat em for reliability and ease of repair in my experience😂
Restore/rebuild it! This is a treasure many people would not have known about it if it wasn't for you guys. Let the people of This generation know where ideas come. from
P.S. Everything about this set-up screams 1970s to me--we had an old blue Dodge pick-up with a camper on it and camped everywhere out west with my brother's ski boat. Loved that truck and camper so much! 1st my dad had it, then my brother ought it from him, then my cousin bought it... And my dad had one of those Toronados! My dad loved that car so much. Front-wheel drive. He was an American car lover. I had a Lancia with front-wheel drive at the same time. Now I've had my Jeep for 35 years this December.
Dont let this project disappear like some in the past! That boat coming off was so cool! Never seen a boat design like that! That would be so cool with a sweet paint/wrap
I gotta agree with others and say keep this amazing piece of nostalgia as original as possible. From the inboard motors to the van and even the interior... That will make it much more valuable as well as a nice piece of advertising for your shop buddy!!! Keep the paint scheme if possible.. it may cost more but the attention it will gain and the content you could create during the restoration should make it worth it. I know i would love to see it!
You are killing those U joints in the outdrive by running it in the up position. Pull the drive, grease the joints, check the bellows and shift cable. 👊
You have to save the entire system, truck and boat! Originality rules! I'm 66 years young and this reminds me of my youth! Stay with it guys! I know it's a money put now...but when restored... you'll be the envy of motorhoming and boating!
I am a Fall-Winter-Spring (just not a summer) kind of person due to body pains. The cold air helps a lot! I am a very hairy person. I sweat when I think of work. The film guys are doing a great job! Love the little gifs in between filming. The pad hitting the floor, then the explosion? Made me duck and cover. Then laugh so hard I think I split a stitch! Thanks guys!
Don't destroy it ! Keep it original !! Restore it !!! This is a world legacy. I used to watch it in tv in argentina when I was a kid. Now im living in usa. I'm sure it's known worldwide.
Honestly if money isn't a deal breaking issue, I think it would be amazing to see that thing rebuilt as original as possible, and looking new. I think it would add way more value to it, and mean a lot more to you guys if it was restored. My humble opinion. :). Love the content, love all the guys, and all the crew. Thanks for sharing.
As I live in England and have NEVER EVER seen or heard of this FANTASTIC vehicle, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE try and keep it as original as possible and not only that this boaterhome is absolutely coool Heavy D and I’m also sure that someone out there will remember that exact vehicle too.
You've got to restore it as it is. They're an icon of retroness. Repower the inboards and van so you know the running gear is good but keep the looks. Yes, a ton more money but the end result would be well worth it
I gotta say - I'm not really sure why you guys glossed over the launch like that. That was the bread and butter of this video, I watched for over 20 minutes soooo excited to see it and for whatever reason someone made a decision to speed it up and make it look like a silent film 😢
since you asked: Rebuild both the starboard and port engines, replace all lines, and convert to EFI for both with Holley Snipers, and while the engines are out, gut the boat down to the fiberglass and re-enforce it, then rebuild the boat back to its original glory as far as wood, windows, seals, etc. KEEP the van just do the necessary body work, and rebuild THAT engine as well as rebuild THAT trans if you can. This thing is a money pit, but DAMN it's a cool one!
Would be cool with snipers but they don’t work on marine applications do to the different load that is put on the engine compared to a car but Fast makes an efi carb kit for marine application so he should definitely try and get those
@@adamdomres2973 holly got efi certificate's for coast-guard application's something that i didn't need for my charger's/2G-hemi but nice to know that ect
@@adamdomres2973 There's a guy here on TH-cam that figured out the tuning for the Sniper EFI on a boat. It's difficult to do because the engine is technically always in "open loop" mode or whatever and never really heats up. But it's doable.
If it’s too expensive and time consuming to keep everything original and restore that’s understandable. Change motors if you want, that’s understandable. But keep everything the way it is. If it ends up being too much to deal with “adopt” it out for a new owner and make sure they want to keep it original and have the time and resources to do so. This would be worth an INSANE amount if restored properly
As for the Dodge 360, I have owned 4 in my life time. 1974 1 ton van, 1976 1 ton van 1977 Dodge Pickup and 1979 Dodge Ramcharger. You are currently dealing with an issue that happens every time one of those engines sits for more than 3 years. It needs a few things to run again and from the sounds of how it was performing in the video I am 100 percent sure of this repair. You will need to replace the voltage regulator on the firewall as it's not built into the alternator of these vintage of machine. I would recommend keeping a spare in the glove box as they go bad on a inconsistent interval and it sucks to be shut down on the side of the road with a non working one. Next is the Coil, Cap, Rotor, Wires and Plugs. They are firing strongly and you will want to correct that. Lastly after those are all replaced verify if your Alternator is giving the juice it should. That's another sore spot on these 360 engines. I hope that helps- the engine itself is strong enough to get 500000 or more miles. I also would replace the Carburetor or completely rebuild the one you have. Holley makes a really good 750 CFM that will go right on the intake manifold you have. Good luck those are a great engine and I wouldn't replace it I would just put some wrench time on it.
@@McBuggs. they kept saying it was a 360 honestly don't know GM engines all that well. I just have had lots of success with my 360ci in the past got at least 400000 miles out of each of them. it's also kinda tough to see the specific details on a tiny screen.
@@McBuggs.I was wondering about this when I watched the first video on this bc I knew about the FWD GM engine/trans setup like this that was used in the Toronado, GMC motorhome and the Cadillac Eldorado, but I had NEVER heard of Chrysler developing anything like that, so it makes sense to me that the original builder of this grafted in that particular drivetrain, though I probably would’ve gone with the Cadillac 500 instead of the Olds 455.. a Chrysler 360 seemed odd to me because it just ain’t enough motor to haul around all of this weight, and if Chrysler had developed a FWD system similar to GM’s it almost certainly would’ve been paired with their 440. What I’m also wondering is if the Ford versions of these also used the GM fwd system or if they used the stock Econoline RWD drivetrain.
fr if all else fails just put a hellcat motor in the van! or that demon motor hes putting in a jeep for some reason.. would be wayyy cooler in this van
We saw one in 82 in Montana. It was demonstrated by the inventor. We had just pulled into a campground / marina and saw it. We had no idea the demo was happening. We just needed a campsite. That's the only one I've ever seen in person.
Keep it visually authentic. Replace the boat motors with modern ones (or rebuild them) but keep them inboard. Try to save the van, but replace the engine and electrics with whatever you want.
This is a one of one boater home. Keeping this original is what everybody wants. You've got the money to restore the lot properly. Pay a man and get it done. Do it. It's something really unqiue and special.
Great video! You asked, so I'll suggest the following: Starting with the van, repower the van with a diesel engine. Rebuild and /or replace the transmission in the van. Do the bodywork and interior, I guess just modernize the drivetrain but keep the van looking old school. As for the boat, definitely repower with some Mercruiser 350's and have the drives either rebuilt or replace them. As for the boat itself, return it to its former glory on the outside but give it the necessary modern upgrades it deserves. This is JMHO though.
Maybe reach out to Mercury Marine. They may be interested in helping to rebuild a piece of history like that Boaterhome. Personally, I'd see if a pair of Mercury 300-350 Hp inboards would fit.
Heavy D. Have you heard about Zachary Demoss?! He’s a missing biker in Montana/ Idaho area. They are about to call of searching due to funds. And there is rivers that are deep and can’t be searched easy. If you could help, that’d be amazing. His family and puppy miss him dearly.
I've said this before but once again, this might be your best videos - EVER!!! I had a one year old 1979 Dodge van and a buddy who worked at the local speed shop. He asked if I wanted it to be fast, I said sure. He said he just hot rodded the same engine a 318cu inch and knew what it needed. I said go for it. A week later he calls and said parts are in come and get em. Waiting for me was an Edelbrock dual flow 360 manifold, a 650 Carter and a shift kit for the automatic transmission. The carb was popped open on his counter, the main jets changed out in less than five minutes and out the door I went. Parts installed in a day and the following weekend I was headed out to the Mojave Desert. Let me just say he was right, it hauled hinny. First gear held up to 55 MPH and I chicken footed second gear and slowed down because I couldn't afford a ticket. It was well spent money and added a bunch of power for a few hundred bucks at that time. The shift kit did it's job as well.
@@clintcava1344 This was more about making power and improving performance than being brand specific. Also the relative simplicity with no ECU and fuel injection. The shift kit didn't care which wheels power was applied to, it simply improved the shift points on a non electrically controlled transmission.
Great video. I remember seeing this in a magazine when I was young. I think you should modernize the whole setup. The boat has a modern looking hull already. Update the interior and keep the inboard engine setup. Modern fuel injected engines for power and reliability is in order. The van portion should be replaced e with a more current vehicle. Some type of cargo van or even better a Ford Transit with the Explorer conversion. I am waiting to see the build and final product.
Restoration with better and lighter materials, new props, weight reduction, most powerful and reliable engines possible, would be a good start I think.
Some all aluminum LS's with real conservative tunes/cams would be a decent enough fit, gut the interior and put in modern boat stuff, probably could shed 1000lbs and have more power to boot.
I am grateful for TH-cam. Restoring this epic creation only makes sense if you can monetize the content. The bar is no longer "is this worth it" now we judge projects on how interesting they are. That's awesome
@@sadqqwwqeq4175 That might be the best thing, would lose the originality but gain shallower draught and all the other benefits of jet drive including less damage to the aquatic environment and underwater life than props.
Keep it original on the out side make it look like a space ship on the inside Keep inboard Keep the cab Keep it all would be amazing to c it as it would have looked brand new
Try to keep the inboard motors, rebuilt them, redo entire interior and exterior to your upgraded taste, and rebuild the van motor and all connections. Fact is, you guys do awesome builds, so depending on just how deep you go, is up to you, and how much you choose to spend. The one thing I truly enjoy the most about your content, is how everything you do relates to your most important assets. Your family and friends!!! Do it right, and make those memories, with the ones you love!
Yo Heavy!! I know a lot of folks are saying no outboards, but if you want to do 70 in that thing, you’ll want the outboards on an extension like that other guy is doing to his second one. I’m from lake Havasu and do a lot of boating stuff here. The amount of money you’ll need to put into that thing to do 70 with outdrives… plus outboards are more forgiving to work on, more reliable, and handle much better! The van needs to stay that look for the retro. But you could probably swap a modern FWD RAM 3500 work van drivetrain in it. That would be cool!
Many of that era Bertram yachts had fiberglass fuel tanks and most have failed resulting in cloggled fuel systems as you described. Dad had a 28ft one and he replaced the fiber tank with a custom aluminum one - big bucks... He suspected that ethanol fuel accelerated the fiberglass deterioration.
Fwd Torando drive set up is already swapped into the van. They also used that same set up in the cool GM based RV’s in the 70’s. So would go that route and see what kind of restomod engine swaps/kits have been attempted in RV builds. Build the small block boat engines into rippers
The Oldsmobile 425 or 455 engines are Torque Monsters. The Oldsmobile TH-425 Transmission bellhousing will only bolt 🔩 up to BOP pattern. The GMC Motorhomes where 30 years ahead of anything else
Check out installing an EFI throttle body injection kit on the engines....It maintains the original look, but gets you away from troublesome old gummed up carbs. I recently installed a Jeg's bandit EFI kit on a 350 Mercruiser Magnum. Those quadrajets like to leak at the bowls and drain back into the intake. Fun Video! 👍😁
It’s a broken record here, but keep this baby 100% original!! It’s a national treasure!!! Maybe update electronics and interior of the boat, but keep this baby as rad as it already is, just fresh and polished!! Coolest thing you may ever own.
This rig with your crew working the plus twenty year kinks out was a real hoot. I never knew there was such a creation. I envy the toys you bring back to life, and the creations of your own imagination is awesome.Gosh, I wish I were thirty years younger, it would be fun to get dirty with you all. Keep up the great stuff! That Boaterhome looked really nice under way.
Swap all motors and new transmission. Keep van and boat original as possible...New guts same shell. It's by far the most unique vehicle out there it's worth throwing some money at!!!
Never heard of you guys, i'm an aussie revhead and this just showed up randomly on my feed. Guys, this thing is a symbol of usa affluence from another time, unique! Liked and subbed, and i'll be watching everything you do with this bloody magnificent blokes toy.
my idea/suggestion was/is: put a ''fake airconditioner'' housing up on the roof of the van, and IN THE FAKE AIRCON HOUSEING, put the batteries and electronics to run a ''hybrid'' deesel-electric VAN .... not a run quiet vehicle... the deesel engine runs all the time powering the GENERATOR THAT JUICES UP THE DRIVE MOGORS, the batteries are for ''maintaince voltage'' or holding the voltage while generator gets warmed up and all that technikl stuffz... and put ELECTRIC MOTORS driveing ALL WHEELS !!! :) even the ''rear 'trailer' wheels'' !!! :)
I’m 54 years old. My Dad had a subscription to Trailer Boat Magazine. I think I remember this being featured. My Dad really wanted one. My Mom not so much….. Dad really loved it because we had a 1971 Dodge van. I say build the hell out of the motors that are in it. Get props for the out drives to match the capabilities of the motors. LS swap the van and make it 4 wheel drive. Replace the front “ Trailer axle “ with a Dana 60 or 80.
huge win to see it actually floating AND running on the lake! Im so excited for the future content with this boat! As others already said: Keep the look original! But go ahead and place some new mechanics inside! A V12 under the hood would be amazing to see and to hear! All the best from Germany!
Gotta say that boaterhome is freaking cool man…full retro rebuild to new condition would make it so killer, not a new tow rig but fully restored what’s there, with a front 4 inch lift and a rear bag kit to help you dip it in the drink.
I had two of these vehicles in my fleet. 408 and 455cid. THM425 transmission. Be careful of the transmission for it leaks out of the top breather even a new rebuild. You can run a drop tube near the ground, this will solve that issue. Still leaks but doesn’t blow back on everything else.
I cant get over how amazing the boat part actually looks and the way it rides the water lifted up and out is super gorgeous. I would swap the engine in the truck though, I was thinking in the last video you mentioned how it was always Ford trucks and this is the only one youve seen without it, what if this is the working prototype, it would also explain why most only have 1 outboard motor too. You could be servicing patient zero of the boaterhomes
I have a 1969 Cobia with twin 50hp Mercury outboards and let me tell you, it’s nice to watch someone else mess with old boats instead of me 😂 I could FEEL the frustration at the boat ramp
At the bottom of the throttle quadrants handle, where it pivots from neutral to forward and reverse. Pull the base of the handle out sideways away from the mount like you're going to remove it. It's spring-loaded and this will disengage the transmission, it's basically Park. You can then push the throttle handle forward to increase the RPMs of the engine without engaging the outdrive in forward gear.
Yeah, that's how you run it without destroying the u-joints. I'm surprised he doesn't know that. Doesn't he have several boats? I'd also add to your post that you never want to rev it very high while doing that. It will destroy the impeller, even if you've got it on muffs. Ask me how I know....
Two new inboard engines for the boat and full rebuild on a new van/trailer with new power plan , saying that I’m down to follow a build from scratch van/trailer project as well! Awesome project overall! Did know they existed!
Keep the inboards bt supercharge those things and see if you can get bigger motors and new drives and then restomod that van with a new motor trans set up. Lake days with mid boats can always be frustrating but better then being in the shop. thought it might look good with the sprinter body tbh but i think to each their own.
Those in-boards work grrrrreat Just rebuild them and supercharge them. I think renovate the dodge and keep it around as an original piece but make a big daddy truck launcher that also accepts the boat part so you can use either. Needs a makeover though. If you do too much you might as well start from scratch and just sell the boaterhome
Keeping it as original as possible would be honoring its time period. but I wouldn’t be afraid to do some modern upgrades to the motors to make them more reliable. Like possibly fuel injection. Same with the Olds motor and transmission. Good luck
Hey guys if you have to rebuild the van engine I would recommend using the slightly bigger Cadillac Eldorado drive train and buy or or regrind a RV style high torque camshaft. Of course you probably need headers for the cam to work. And for ease of maintenance use a Edelbrock marketed, Carter manufactured, Webber designed carburetor that you can buy at any auto parts store. Good luck! I'll be watching!
If you try to run with old impellers, you’ll have a disaster on your hands. Crunchy little impeller particles will end up though out the engine plugging things like the small holes in the head gasket.
@@Arcifer “Raw water cooling” doesn’t have a heat exchanger. The remaining paddles of the impeller will provide sufficient flow to push paddle debris throughout the engine until all that’s left of the impeller is a naked hub. Seen enough of them. If the engine survives the overheating. The gasket in the riser might not. Fix the impeller and not the gasket too and after the next time out and shut down, the water remaining in the riser can run down into the manifold and into a cylinder. Water in the cylinder will lead to ‘hydro lock” when the engine is next started.
You don't often get a super rare vehicle basically tossed in your lap. I'd go for a full restore as much as possible. New wiring and electronics etc. Rebuild the engines if you can. If not, replace them with engines that fit with those outdrives. Refurbish the outdrives top to bottom. Yeah the van has some rust. Remove the rusted sections and weld in some new metal. Clean it up. Paint it all up nice and buff. Think of it as the chance to take a chunk of raw diamond, and turn it into the ultimate jewelry piece. You have the ability to make that boaterhome into the ultimate lake monster. I say full restoration and upgrade where needed. Also, get hold of Foruno, they might just be interested in helping provide upgraded marine electronics for such a unique boat.
@@atodaso1668 There are millions of boats running carbs out there that run just fine for years and years. The boss makes me winterize his and fire it up in the spring. It has never had a carb issue, the only thing that has died was the electronic ignition module once. It always fires up no problem after sitting for the winter.
That things BAD-ASS if you fixed it right you could stay in the boat and just cross country that thing that would be a few good episodes of filming a cross country trip
It was so awesome seeing that thing rip across the water. If it were mine I'd just go through both boat motors, refresh the good one and fix what's wrong with the bad one. Only deal breaker I see is if the crank is shot and you can't regrind or replace it. The van motor just needs the fuel systems and ignition made right. If your compression check is good, you should be ok, EXCEPT for the cam timing gear which has a nylon cover that cracks and crumbles with age. Just replace it with a solid gear and new chain, and you'll never have to deal with it again. Replace the water pump while you're at it, as the impeller fins are probably eaten away, which doesn't help when the rest of the system and the block are coated with scale. Wish I lived closer, as it would be a treat to rebuild that 360 if I did.
So F'N dope. Lift kit , Hell Cat Engine for the van. Two new 350 Mercruiser Magnums and she's back on the lake. I thank you for the great memories from better days.
I live in Las Vegas and I was the same as you are to the point that I cleaned the windows of my car and I would break out into a rolling sweat. It started 10 years ago, and I just got used to it. No matter what I did I would sweat and it would embarrass me. I went in to see my doctor for a normal check up and talked to him about this. He sent me to see a heart doctor and did some tests. Come to find out my heart was having a problem. I ended up having a pacemaker put in and I can do whatever I want now without sweating . It's 114 out today and I went and washed my Corvette and I had a little sweat on my brow and chest but nothing like I was before. This is common in people in their mid to late 30's and don't have any idea of why it happens and learn to live with it as you are doing. If I was you I would go have it check out but you will probably blow it off and say that's not what's happening to me. Well maybe it's not but it never hurts to have it checked out as it's better that having a Heart Attack and saying Goodbye to your family and friends.
I had a friend who sweated a lot. One night he was in Salt Lake and had a heart attack. His heart stopped for 22 minutes. Luckily the EMTs were able to restart his heart and rushed him the UofU. He ended up with a pace maker at 48 years old. Please have your heart checked.
You definetly earned my subscription with this restoration project! Have to admit you made me gasp in awe as you ran those inboards dry. Although mistreating and frying an engine is super entertaining it'll probably pay off to get a bit into marine-engine mechanics and especially the cooling part of it for some saved coin along the way.. I really love this project! Also digged the "miners stash"-treasure hunt even though there was a slight feeling of "was that stashed just for you guys" as the shovel was just in such a good condition.. Now I'm beginning to wonder if you fried these engines on purpose too!? As I said -great entertainment value! Gonna make some popcorn when the next episode on the boaterhome comes out! You're living the greasemonkey dream! Keep it up! 😁
My thoughts would be to replace the van engine, transmission, and probably gears with a big Cummings diesel and updated Ram transmission and transfer case. You could even add big compound turbos for that extra pulling power. I would have to suggest braking upgrades not just service to the the existing brake system. and even a suspension restomod. The interior can be done with the restoration of the boat interior. It would be a good time to upgrade the electronics in both the van and boat sections. Replace the boat engines with a couple of Texas Speed 427's and service the propeller drive system or replace it. Running a closed loop coolant system with lake water radiator system would be probably the best cooling option. That is a lot of cost and time but that's what I would dream of doing to this. A good polishing of the exteriors would make it really pop.
😂 Why in the world would you need to do all that if it was even possible? The van has a drive train out of an Oldsmobile Toronado... Probably the famous 455/7.5 Olds Rocket with about 400hp originaly and a damn strong and very reliable transmission for the most part basically the front wheel drive stock version of what is in Cleet's Mullet... Both could be rebuilt and be very reliable with plenty of power. Yet you somehow want to cram an engine in that's twice as big and weighs twice as much and has so much extra power. You can tow three other boats behind it for what... There's no reason it needs to be done and frankly I don't know how you would even pull vw possible. It's absolutely ridiculous! As for adding more power to boat with texas speed 427s It wouldn't be bad, but why... It was just up on plane with motors that haven't ran for how long??? Old Chevy small block 350s Some of the most reliable V8 engines ever made with more aftermarket parts than you can imagine to add more power... What's the point in putting engine in that cost that much those texas pride as it's a boat you're not going to utilize the power from them rebuilding the original engines with some performance bolt on parts are all it needs.
Gotta keep the funky vibes, one of the main reasons this thing is cool is because it’s so retro and weird looking, if it’s got a new van/cab in the front and giant outboards hanging off the back it’ll ruin the whole look of the thing. 1) Swap all three motors for modern stuff, 2) restore the interior to as close to original funk 3) party time!
Also agree, The outward appearance is the entire point. If it makes more sense to have modern inboards and engine for the truck do that but keep her stock looking from the outside. Coolest ride on the lake with that look.
Yo Heavy. You are the king of diesel engines and We all know it. Throw a Cummins under the hood of the van. And throw two 4bts in the boat. Idk if that would even work but if anyone on earth could make it happen, you could. Furthermore, you have a lot of cool stuff already but this is at the top of the list bro.
I'd love the see the entire rig restored to mint original condition, but with modern flair on the inside, and a mean paintjob on the outside. You need more grunt from the van too, throw something much bigger and heavier in there.
That is the most beautiful boater home I’ve ever seen!!! Re-power the boat w/ updated engines. 2 Merc’s 350’s is easy. New cooling, charging systems, batteries and fuel it’s back at 90% I’m sure the out drives need some love too. Now the van. If yall can’t use the van. Keep everything from the back of the doors back “the fiberglass shell” and adapt whatever front wheel drive vehicle works and will fit bast. Finding the same set up may take some time but I hate is the best choice is to stick with the same setup but all newer stuff.!! Love this project!! Who cares if it takes a year or so. I know the Diesel Boiz will come through 💪🏼🔥🔥🔥🚀🏴☠️
Having had three motorbikes with Fibreglass tanks, I can confirm that, with the introduction of Ethylene Fuel, it causes the fibreglass to rot. You need to make an Aluminium fuel tank. . . . Best of luck with that..
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Heavy said the Dodge Van had “$ex Appeal”. Yea $ex appeal like Ron J. The Hedgehog 😂😂😂
Sale out to ag1 wow 😂😂😂 both are junk
I thought you were an AG1 kind of guy
Diesel swap the boat
Id like to see proof that you have used this product for 6months. Ill sign up today
No outboard motors. Try to keep everything as original as possible. That is what makes this such an awesome machine
For sure
My brother bought a inboard outboard motor like this has. They are a nightmare. There's a lot more complexity to having basically two systems two do the same thing an outboard can as it's all in one. Then you have all the seals and custom parts that are probably impossible to get. Outboard is a plus all the way around. The extra bonus is that there will be more space and storage in the boat to. Outboards are way easier to work on to as they aren't sunken in to a cubby hole that's impossible to reach anything.
Yah you can always retrofit LS swaps in as the inboards too which would be cool. Think they have some kits too so just find a couple aluminum 5.3’s
@@gtd360 There is nothing custom about those inboard engines. There is probably a million boats out there with that exact same setup. They are not fun to work on, but you really don't need to do much to them when they are in good working order. You can get at most of the things you need to to maintain them fairly easily, you just need a buddy with long skinny arms sometimes.
If that was the point why not just buy a new boat.😂
I am a shade tree boat mechanic. Mercruiser engines are just Chev blocks with different heads and cam. Parts are readily available and the outdrives are basically bullet proof. Check your bellows, gimbal bearings, exhaust hoses, impeller pumps etc. Most things are relatively easy to repair or replace minus the gimbals. Kind of bears to do. Make sure the outdrives get a good fluid change and pump the fluid from the bottom to the top. It eliminates air bubbles. When ever you run those engines, get those outdrives down as low as you can. The clutch dogs and u-joints don't like that extreme angle and keep them either watered with a fake a lake or submerged. Like you said, running them dry eats those rubber impellers alive! Also, make sure when you do pull the engines, the stringers are strong and true. If the pulleys are pointed towards the hull, you will overheat due to the water not being able to have the right angle of attack under water and it will cavitate at the intake strakes at FOT. The engines not being level WILL lift the outdrives up. But as soon as you drop speed, it will pick water back up and things will cool down.
Keep that thing as original as possible. Its so, so DOPE!
My MerCruiser ain't no Chevy. 888
Marine 350s are 4bolt mains. But yes standard chevy
Also starter, alternator distributor and carb must be marine grade.
@@gavinkeller183 My 888 is Ford 302 based with, like you said cam, head and valve spring mods
OUTDRIVES R NOT BULLETPROOF!! I WAS STUCK 2 MILES OUTSIDE BOSTON HARBOR BACK IN 1995 RADIO WOUNDNT WORK ! AND BAD THUNDERSTORMS ALL NIGHT LONG....IT WAS THE OUTDRIVE....I.LL NEVER FORGET THAT NIGHT...
I said the same thing when he had the outdrives up while they did all that
As others have said, restore it as original as possible - visually. Mechanically - put all the upgrades in it that weren’t available back then to make both the boat and van more-than-capable . As few of these that were made, fewer that are still alive today, I have to believe you’ll get a buyer for it someday who will pay more than what you put in it.
Basically what i was trying to say and ask about. You said it perfectly and answered my main question without having seen my question! 🤣🤷♂️ Thanks 👍💯🙌
I suspect there are many reasons this concept failed, compared to traditional tow vehicle & boat with drownable trailer.
@@WontreplyeverdontbotherYeah. But someday you'll be old and I'm guessing you'll feel differently then
@@Wontreplyeverdontbother New stuff is perpetually broken and designed to be replaced, find something that will be functioning that is that old.....
New inboards. New diesel or Hellcat motor in the van. Full restomod!!! I'm 55 and saw one of those on Lake Michigan when I was a kid. Love it!!!
A good turbo diesel in the van would be awesome.
Drive train is Oldsmobile. I don't think you can make a hellcat fit. It's a FWD V8 so choices are very limited.
@@OldCooteror a impala from like 2007 or something like that. The ss varient atleast I know they have v8s in them mine only has a v6 but I know you can find ls 3 fwd transmissions from companies and it wouldn’t be to hard probably to add a supercharged ls into that thing and get a better trans than what came with the impalas back then
Good Call !!! Something that rare is only all original once..
So glad you decided to keep it as original as possible. Let that ol girl keep her soul..
fr if all else fails just put a hellcat motor in the van! or that demon motor hes putting in a jeep for some reason.. would be wayyy cooler in this van
'This is what Dreams are made of !'
I felt that in my past life
Add back some of the van to make it more practical?
I'd say to try to keep it as visually original as possible. Under the hood, go for broke with the upgrades. That boat on the water is quintessential '70s.
Think that’s the way to go, cosmetically old school but modern engines/drives/interior
Just get all the new electronics and jets for that thing. Under the hood make it fast as but keep the look.
But SHAG Molds really icky like IT S all goo
@@SinnersOrSaintsbe cool to find mercruiser or omc 305 or 350 engines for it. All the Chevy go fast parts bolt right up
I'm thinking it was the eighties. Not positive though.
That vehicle is so unique. Only 21 ever made. Best served to try & keep it as original as possible. Overhaul the boat engines. Get rid of whatever powers the van & see if a 24 valve diesel will match up with the unique transmission the thing has, then update all the upholstery to Heavy D taste. That's my 2 cents. Do what you want, me i'd keep it original as possible except it's heartbeat. Ty for taking us along
My grandparents had a drapery and interior design business in nampa from 1955 to now (I own it now) and my grandpa had photos of the custom boat curtains they designed and manufactured for these boaterhomes
My grandpa always said he wished he had bought one…😂
It’s kinda cool watching be get in the water.
This one is a one of a kind. It's the prototype. 10 feet wide, two engines, three rear axles. The production version was 8 feet wide, one engine, two rear axles.
I don't think only one company did van/boat conversions back in the day, I saw one in Texas in the 80s. Had to be more than 4 built
Having front wheel drive at a boat launch is a terrible idea. Try launching that wet dream, low tide on some slime. Forget about driving anywhere but deeper in the water. Boaterhome is poorly executed great idea. These guys have a chance of making something super cool!
I agree. If he was going to modify it then he might as well have purchased a random boat and made his own… something like this deserves a restoration
Being diesel guys, you might be interested to know that mercruiser marine has a marine 6.5 l Detroit that will sit right in the same place as them small blocks. Mercruiser marine makes the manifolds so they will line up with the same exhaust y pipe and use the same risers from the small block. The bell housing is the same and the motor mounts are in the exact same location so basically the only thing different is the exhaust manifolds.
That would be nice if his plan werent to make it rip, ive had some detroits and trust me, they are ANYTHING but powerful😂😂
@@donaldduck476 that's true but they will run all day at full throttle and not blow up
@@arthurgay5746 true that, I smoked a massive elk real bad an hour down a rig road (that was already an hour to the nearest town from the entrance of) in my first obs and had to self delete my oil cooler with a length of random hose that I walked 4km to and another 4 from my rig at the time and commandeered from the tool shack to get back for work by the am and so I could leave after that day cause it was the last day. I wouldve been trapped out there after that last day with nowhere but my truck to sleep cause the other crew wouldve taken up the rooms but it ran just fine the 600+km home with just a couple hose clamps and a chunk of cheap hose I just looped back into the 2 hoses. Cant beat em for reliability and ease of repair in my experience😂
Restore/rebuild it!
This is a treasure many people would not have known about it if it wasn't for you guys. Let the people of This generation know where ideas come. from
Love that he listened to the comments and keeping it original!
P.S. Everything about this set-up screams 1970s to me--we had an old blue Dodge pick-up with a camper on it and camped everywhere out west with my brother's ski boat. Loved that truck and camper so much! 1st my dad had it, then my brother ought it from him, then my cousin bought it... And my dad had one of those Toronados! My dad loved that car so much. Front-wheel drive. He was an American car lover. I had a Lancia with front-wheel drive at the same time. Now I've had my Jeep for 35 years this December.
Dont let this project disappear like some in the past! That boat coming off was so cool! Never seen a boat design like that! That would be so cool with a sweet paint/wrap
I wouldn't wrap it as they tend to Destroy the body underneath them as a boat I would imagine it is worse
I know I really want to see it painted or wrapped too!
Stay inboards, it really looks cool up on plane!!! What ever drive you use keep it close to the same weight, it seems to be well balanced. hance
I gotta agree with others and say keep this amazing piece of nostalgia as original as possible. From the inboard motors to the van and even the interior... That will make it much more valuable as well as a nice piece of advertising for your shop buddy!!! Keep the paint scheme if possible.. it may cost more but the attention it will gain and the content you could create during the restoration should make it worth it. I know i would love to see it!
You are killing those U joints in the outdrive by running it in the up position. Pull the drive, grease the joints, check the bellows and shift cable. 👊
Rip u joints
Moment of silence for them u joints.
And gimble bearing
Well said. Sea legs detected.
Boats float..?? Right
You have to save the entire system, truck and boat! Originality rules! I'm 66 years young and this reminds me of my youth! Stay with it guys! I know it's a money put now...but when restored... you'll be the envy of motorhoming and boating!
Imagine this is restored, it'll be the biggest flex one everyone, would love to see it look MINT
I am a Fall-Winter-Spring (just not a summer) kind of person due to body pains. The cold air helps a lot! I am a very hairy person. I sweat when I think of work. The film guys are doing a great job! Love the little gifs in between filming. The pad hitting the floor, then the explosion? Made me duck and cover. Then laugh so hard I think I split a stitch! Thanks guys!
Don't destroy it !
Keep it original !!
Restore it !!!
This is a world legacy.
I used to watch it in tv in argentina when I was a kid.
Now im living in usa.
I'm sure it's known worldwide.
Make a New Legacy by upgrading it 😊
Honestly if money isn't a deal breaking issue, I think it would be amazing to see that thing rebuilt as original as possible, and looking new. I think it would add way more value to it, and mean a lot more to you guys if it was restored. My humble opinion. :). Love the content, love all the guys, and all the crew. Thanks for sharing.
I agree since it’s none that actually works and have been restored they can Actually set the bar🫡
Is money a deal breaker? Watch this channel much?
@215rwg All the time yes. 👍
As I live in England and have NEVER EVER seen or heard of this FANTASTIC vehicle, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE try and keep it as original as possible and not only that this boaterhome is absolutely coool Heavy D and I’m also sure that someone out there will remember that exact vehicle too.
Keep that original !!!!!! It will be sooooo worth it and you have the resources!! This shitty world needs a Boaterhome from the better days
You've got to restore it as it is. They're an icon of retroness. Repower the inboards and van so you know the running gear is good but keep the looks. Yes, a ton more money but the end result would be well worth it
I gotta say - I'm not really sure why you guys glossed over the launch like that. That was the bread and butter of this video, I watched for over 20 minutes soooo excited to see it and for whatever reason someone made a decision to speed it up and make it look like a silent film 😢
I agree
Right, I wanna see the revival too :(
I thought maybe that was a launch from when it was new. I'm sure it would have been filmed
since you asked: Rebuild both the starboard and port engines, replace all lines, and convert to EFI for both with Holley Snipers, and while the engines are out, gut the boat down to the fiberglass and re-enforce it, then rebuild the boat back to its original glory as far as wood, windows, seals, etc. KEEP the van just do the necessary body work, and rebuild THAT engine as well as rebuild THAT trans if you can. This thing is a money pit, but DAMN it's a cool one!
Wouldn't be hard, they are marine Chevy engines, pretty much all the same parts for the automotive version fit.
Would be cool with snipers but they don’t work on marine applications do to the different load that is put on the engine compared to a car but Fast makes an efi carb kit for marine application so he should definitely try and get those
@@adamdomres2973 holly got efi certificate's for coast-guard application's something that i didn't need for my charger's/2G-hemi but nice to know that ect
Cummins in the van but everything else you said is spot on
@@adamdomres2973 There's a guy here on TH-cam that figured out the tuning for the Sniper EFI on a boat. It's difficult to do because the engine is technically always in "open loop" mode or whatever and never really heats up. But it's doable.
If it’s too expensive and time consuming to keep everything original and restore that’s understandable. Change motors if you want, that’s understandable. But keep everything the way it is. If it ends up being too much to deal with “adopt” it out for a new owner and make sure they want to keep it original and have the time and resources to do so. This would be worth an INSANE amount if restored properly
Restore it as original as possible, but add that Heavy D cool. Keep the legacy alive!
As for the Dodge 360, I have owned 4 in my life time. 1974 1 ton van, 1976 1 ton van 1977 Dodge Pickup and 1979 Dodge Ramcharger. You are currently dealing with an issue that happens every time one of those engines sits for more than 3 years. It needs a few things to run again and from the sounds of how it was performing in the video I am 100 percent sure of this repair. You will need to replace the voltage regulator on the firewall as it's not built into the alternator of these vintage of machine. I would recommend keeping a spare in the glove box as they go bad on a inconsistent interval and it sucks to be shut down on the side of the road with a non working one. Next is the Coil, Cap, Rotor, Wires and Plugs. They are firing strongly and you will want to correct that. Lastly after those are all replaced verify if your Alternator is giving the juice it should. That's another sore spot on these 360 engines. I hope that helps- the engine itself is strong enough to get 500000 or more miles. I also would replace the Carburetor or completely rebuild the one you have. Holley makes a really good 750 CFM that will go right on the intake manifold you have. Good luck those are a great engine and I wouldn't replace it I would just put some wrench time on it.
@The Keithmerk, You might have just started with it has DODGE on it.😆
Pretty sure it has an Olds 455 out of a front wheel drive Toronado.
Yes it's the Olds Toronado 455 FWD. (13:46) Check the old coil, it could simply be weak after so many years sittings.
@@McBuggs. they kept saying it was a 360 honestly don't know GM engines all that well. I just have had lots of success with my 360ci in the past got at least 400000 miles out of each of them. it's also kinda tough to see the specific details on a tiny screen.
@@McBuggs.I was wondering about this when I watched the first video on this bc I knew about the FWD GM engine/trans setup like this that was used in the Toronado, GMC motorhome and the Cadillac Eldorado, but I had NEVER heard of Chrysler developing anything like that, so it makes sense to me that the original builder of this grafted in that particular drivetrain, though I probably would’ve gone with the Cadillac 500 instead of the Olds 455.. a Chrysler 360 seemed odd to me because it just ain’t enough motor to haul around all of this weight, and if Chrysler had developed a FWD system similar to GM’s it almost certainly would’ve been paired with their 440. What I’m also wondering is if the Ford versions of these also used the GM fwd system or if they used the stock Econoline RWD drivetrain.
I’m glad my opinion matters. I think you should keep it as original as possible, but add that HeavyD cool. You know what I’m talking about.
Your opinion doesn't matter he realized it would be too much work is why he is keeping it the way it is 😂😂
@@ezmcclure05 and neither does yours
@@ezmcclure05 says Carnac the Magnificent.
fr if all else fails just put a hellcat motor in the van! or that demon motor hes putting in a jeep for some reason.. would be wayyy cooler in this van
Who cares about your opinion? It’s the internet.
i love whoever edits these videos, its usually not too much editing but just enough to catch u off guardf🤣
I wasn’t expecting this video for another year. I’m glad to see you made boaterhome a priority. ✌🏽😂✌🏽
We saw one in 82 in Montana. It was demonstrated by the inventor. We had just pulled into a campground / marina and saw it. We had no idea the demo was happening. We just needed a campsite. That's the only one I've ever seen in person.
Keep it visually authentic. Replace the boat motors with modern ones (or rebuild them) but keep them inboard. Try to save the van, but replace the engine and electrics with whatever you want.
This is a one of one boater home. Keeping this original is what everybody wants. You've got the money to restore the lot properly. Pay a man and get it done. Do it. It's something really unqiue and special.
Clearly there’s a lot of work to do on this beauty! Update everything but try to keep the same look as much as possible! Love this!!
Great video! You asked, so I'll suggest the following: Starting with the van, repower the van with a diesel engine. Rebuild and /or replace the transmission in the van. Do the bodywork and interior, I guess just modernize the drivetrain but keep the van looking old school. As for the boat, definitely repower with some Mercruiser 350's and have the drives either rebuilt or replace them. As for the boat itself, return it to its former glory on the outside but give it the necessary modern upgrades it deserves. This is JMHO though.
Maybe reach out to Mercury Marine. They may be interested in helping to rebuild a piece of history like that Boaterhome. Personally, I'd see if a pair of Mercury 300-350 Hp inboards would fit.
Heavy D. Have you heard about Zachary Demoss?! He’s a missing biker in Montana/ Idaho area. They are about to call of searching due to funds. And there is rivers that are deep and can’t be searched easy. If you could help, that’d be amazing. His family and puppy miss him dearly.
No outboards! Like others are saying try to restore this beauty as originally as possible keep it unique! So excited to watch this journey!! TY
I've said this before but once again, this might be your best videos - EVER!!!
I had a one year old 1979 Dodge van and a buddy who worked at the local speed shop. He asked if I wanted it to be fast, I said sure. He said he just hot rodded the same engine a 318cu inch and knew what it needed. I said go for it. A week later he calls and said parts are in come and get em.
Waiting for me was an Edelbrock dual flow 360 manifold, a 650 Carter and a shift kit for the automatic transmission. The carb was popped open on his counter, the main jets changed out in less than five minutes and out the door I went. Parts installed in a day and the following weekend I was headed out to the Mojave Desert. Let me just say he was right, it hauled hinny. First gear held up to 55 MPH and I chicken footed second gear and slowed down because I couldn't afford a ticket.
It was well spent money and added a bunch of power for a few hundred bucks at that time.
The shift kit did it's job as well.
😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😘😘
The only thing Dodge is the body, it's a front-wheel drive Oldsmobile powertrain.
@@clintcava1344 This was more about making power and improving performance than being brand specific. Also the relative simplicity with no ECU and fuel injection. The shift kit didn't care which wheels power was applied to, it simply improved the shift points on a non electrically controlled transmission.
SHOULD DEFINITELY RESTMOD IT FROM BUMPER TO THE I/O STERN DRIVE SYSTEM! Old school classic nostalgia look new school feel.
Great video. I remember seeing this in a magazine when I was young. I think you should modernize the whole setup. The boat has a modern looking hull already. Update the interior and keep the inboard engine setup. Modern fuel injected engines for power and reliability is in order. The van portion should be replaced e with a more current vehicle. Some type of cargo van or even better a Ford Transit with the Explorer conversion. I am waiting to see the build and final product.
Restoration with better and lighter materials, new props, weight reduction, most powerful and reliable engines possible, would be a good start I think.
Some all aluminum LS's with real conservative tunes/cams would be a decent enough fit, gut the interior and put in modern boat stuff, probably could shed 1000lbs and have more power to boot.
OEM+ tuning
@@sadqqwwqeq4175 it's fibreglass...
I am grateful for TH-cam. Restoring this epic creation only makes sense if you can monetize the content. The bar is no longer "is this worth it" now we judge projects on how interesting they are. That's awesome
@@sadqqwwqeq4175 That might be the best thing, would lose the originality but gain shallower draught and all the other benefits of jet drive including less damage to the aquatic environment and underwater life than props.
Keep it original on the out side make it look like a space ship on the inside
Keep inboard
Keep the cab
Keep it all would be amazing to c it as it would have looked brand new
Try to keep the inboard motors, rebuilt them, redo entire interior and exterior to your upgraded taste, and rebuild the van motor and all connections. Fact is, you guys do awesome builds, so depending on just how deep you go, is up to you, and how much you choose to spend. The one thing I truly enjoy the most about your content, is how everything you do relates to your most important assets. Your family and friends!!! Do it right, and make those memories, with the ones you love!
Yo Heavy!! I know a lot of folks are saying no outboards, but if you want to do 70 in that thing, you’ll want the outboards on an extension like that other guy is doing to his second one. I’m from lake Havasu and do a lot of boating stuff here. The amount of money you’ll need to put into that thing to do 70 with outdrives… plus outboards are more forgiving to work on, more reliable, and handle much better! The van needs to stay that look for the retro. But you could probably swap a modern FWD RAM 3500 work van drivetrain in it. That would be cool!
Many of that era Bertram yachts had fiberglass fuel tanks and most have failed resulting in cloggled fuel systems as you described. Dad had a 28ft one and he replaced the fiber tank with a custom aluminum one - big bucks... He suspected that ethanol fuel accelerated the fiberglass deterioration.
Watching you restore this classic boaterhome was awesome. Aside from the risky recoveries, this is probably one of your best videos yet
I don't think we saw any restoration yet.
Fwd Torando drive set up is already swapped into the van. They also used that same set up in the cool GM based RV’s in the 70’s. So would go that route and see what kind of restomod engine swaps/kits have been attempted in RV builds. Build the small block boat engines into rippers
The Oldsmobile 425 or 455 engines are Torque Monsters.
The Oldsmobile TH-425 Transmission bellhousing will only bolt 🔩 up to BOP pattern.
The GMC Motorhomes where 30 years ahead of anything else
Check out installing an EFI throttle body injection kit on the engines....It maintains the original look, but gets you away from troublesome old gummed up carbs. I recently installed a Jeg's bandit EFI kit on a 350 Mercruiser Magnum. Those quadrajets like to leak at the bowls and drain back into the intake. Fun Video! 👍😁
Just make sure it’s USCG stuff no need to die on the water from a fire. Carb is better
Can’t believe how well that got up on plane it looked like it was shifting pretty good for its age and deserves a full rebuild
That thing is so cool, its needs to be resto modded, yes I know that costs a lot but it's the right way for something like this.
Mod??? So like a rotating bed and a roof Mirror
@@AMPProf Mirrored ceilings and a water bed, new or rebuilt motors.
It’s a broken record here, but keep this baby 100% original!! It’s a national treasure!!! Maybe update electronics and interior of the boat, but keep this baby as rad as it already is, just fresh and polished!! Coolest thing you may ever own.
Keep at it, you guys went to quick. Check the timing and advance I. The van
This rig with your crew working the plus twenty year kinks out was a real hoot. I never knew there was such a creation. I envy the toys you bring back to life, and the creations of your own imagination is awesome.Gosh, I wish I were thirty years younger, it would be fun to get dirty with you all. Keep up the great stuff! That Boaterhome looked really nice under way.
Definitely need to keep it original and restore that beast, it's just way to cool
Swap all motors and new transmission. Keep van and boat original as possible...New guts same shell. It's by far the most unique vehicle out there it's worth throwing some money at!!!
Never heard of you guys, i'm an aussie revhead and this just showed up randomly on my feed. Guys, this thing is a symbol of usa affluence from another time, unique! Liked and subbed, and i'll be watching everything you do with this bloody magnificent blokes toy.
The vehicle is a piece of history as far as the body etc keep original However do what you must on power trains and the mechanics, have a ball.
my idea/suggestion was/is:
put a ''fake airconditioner'' housing up on the roof of the van, and IN THE FAKE AIRCON HOUSEING, put the batteries and electronics to run a ''hybrid'' deesel-electric VAN .... not a run quiet vehicle... the deesel engine runs all the time powering the GENERATOR THAT JUICES UP THE DRIVE MOGORS, the batteries are for ''maintaince voltage'' or holding the voltage while generator gets warmed up and all that technikl stuffz... and put ELECTRIC MOTORS driveing ALL WHEELS !!! :) even the ''rear 'trailer' wheels'' !!! :)
I’m 54 years old. My Dad had a subscription to Trailer Boat Magazine. I think I remember this being featured. My Dad really wanted one. My Mom not so much….. Dad really loved it because we had a 1971 Dodge van. I say build the hell out of the motors that are in it. Get props for the out drives to match the capabilities of the motors. LS swap the van and make it 4 wheel drive. Replace the front “ Trailer axle “ with a Dana 60 or 80.
There's no way to add drive to the rear wheels in any conventional fashion because the boat hull sits between the wheels.
@@greggv8 It needs a hydraulic drive system! Heavy D can be the first to do it! Hahahaha
I really hope you keep it original. It's a piece of history, look at it as a historical restoration project.
huge win to see it actually floating AND running on the lake! Im so excited for the future content with this boat!
As others already said: Keep the look original! But go ahead and place some new mechanics inside! A V12 under the hood would be amazing to see and to hear!
All the best from Germany!
Gotta say that boaterhome is freaking cool man…full retro rebuild to new condition would make it so killer, not a new tow rig but fully restored what’s there, with a front 4 inch lift and a rear bag kit to help you dip it in the drink.
I had two of these vehicles in my fleet. 408 and 455cid. THM425 transmission. Be careful of the transmission for it leaks out of the top breather even a new rebuild. You can run a drop tube near the ground, this will solve that issue. Still leaks but doesn’t blow back on everything else.
That thing is the coolest thing you’ve bought imo. Please restore it all OG
i dunno.... that truck camper was pretty sweet looking (but i grew up with trucks like that so....)
I cant get over how amazing the boat part actually looks and the way it rides the water lifted up and out is super gorgeous.
I would swap the engine in the truck though, I was thinking in the last video you mentioned how it was always Ford trucks and this is the only one youve seen without it, what if this is the working prototype, it would also explain why most only have 1 outboard motor too.
You could be servicing patient zero of the boaterhomes
I have a 1969 Cobia with twin 50hp Mercury outboards and let me tell you, it’s nice to watch someone else mess with old boats instead of me 😂 I could FEEL the frustration at the boat ramp
At the bottom of the throttle quadrants handle, where it pivots from neutral to forward and reverse. Pull the base of the handle out sideways away from the mount like you're going to remove it. It's spring-loaded and this will disengage the transmission, it's basically Park. You can then push the throttle handle forward to increase the RPMs of the engine without engaging the outdrive in forward gear.
Yeah, that's how you run it without destroying the u-joints. I'm surprised he doesn't know that. Doesn't he have several boats?
I'd also add to your post that you never want to rev it very high while doing that. It will destroy the impeller, even if you've got it on muffs.
Ask me how I know....
Two new inboard engines for the boat and full rebuild on a new van/trailer with new power plan , saying that I’m down to follow a build from scratch van/trailer project as well! Awesome project overall! Did know they existed!
Keep the inboards bt supercharge those things and see if you can get bigger motors and new drives and then restomod that van with a new motor trans set up. Lake days with mid boats can always be frustrating but better then being in the shop. thought it might look good with the sprinter body tbh but i think to each their own.
Those in-boards work grrrrreat Just rebuild them and supercharge them.
I think renovate the dodge and keep it around as an original piece but make a big daddy truck launcher that also accepts the boat part so you can use either. Needs a makeover though.
If you do too much you might as well start from scratch and just sell the boaterhome
In-board for days!
Congratulations on saving a classic from dying in a field and giving it One more chance to Live
Thanks again!!
Keeping it as original as possible would be honoring its time period. but I wouldn’t be afraid to do some modern upgrades to the motors to make them more reliable. Like possibly fuel injection. Same with the Olds motor and transmission. Good luck
Hey guys if you have to rebuild the van engine I would recommend using the slightly bigger Cadillac Eldorado drive train and buy or or regrind a RV style high torque camshaft. Of course you probably need headers for the cam to work. And for ease of maintenance use a Edelbrock marketed, Carter manufactured, Webber designed carburetor that you can buy at any auto parts store. Good luck! I'll be watching!
If you try to run with old impellers, you’ll have a disaster on your hands. Crunchy little impeller particles will end up though out the engine plugging things like the small holes in the head gasket.
Smart
No this is wrong
no@@pauledwards6446
The impeller doesnt pull water through the engine block, however it will get stuck in the heat exchanger
@@Arcifer
“Raw water cooling” doesn’t have a heat exchanger. The remaining paddles of the impeller will provide sufficient flow to push paddle debris throughout the engine until all that’s left of the impeller is a naked hub. Seen enough of them. If the engine survives the overheating. The gasket in the riser might not. Fix the impeller and not the gasket too and after the next time out and shut down, the water remaining in the riser can run down into the manifold and into a cylinder. Water in the cylinder will lead to ‘hydro lock” when the engine is next started.
That is very cool
That should be restored
even if its rough shape
that vehicle is just Unique
Keep it up
Install 2 Hemi Engines w/ Hydro jet Drives and for the Van section put a 400 small block keeping with the Chrysler Theme.
Pretty good idea. Maybe sourcing a 440 rv engine to keep the cost low.
Cummins Search boat!!!!
That thing rocks I would paint her black with red orange white retro stripes
You don't often get a super rare vehicle basically tossed in your lap. I'd go for a full restore as much as possible. New wiring and electronics etc. Rebuild the engines if you can. If not, replace them with engines that fit with those outdrives. Refurbish the outdrives top to bottom. Yeah the van has some rust. Remove the rusted sections and weld in some new metal. Clean it up. Paint it all up nice and buff. Think of it as the chance to take a chunk of raw diamond, and turn it into the ultimate jewelry piece. You have the ability to make that boaterhome into the ultimate lake monster. I say full restoration and upgrade where needed. Also, get hold of Foruno, they might just be interested in helping provide upgraded marine electronics for such a unique boat.
Keeping the van is an excellent idea but there's nothing wrong with modernizing it and eliminate the carburetor headaches
Cars, trucks and boats have been running just fine a LOT longer than they have been with fuel injection.
The Tornado xmsn was never intended to pull that weight, it is the weak spot, better to use a 4x4 setup with the rear driveshaft deleted
@@MrThisIsMeToo But how well and for how long? Holly EFI makes it so easy these days
@@atodaso1668 There are millions of boats running carbs out there that run just fine for years and years. The boss makes me winterize his and fire it up in the spring. It has never had a carb issue, the only thing that has died was the electronic ignition module once. It always fires up no problem after sitting for the winter.
That things BAD-ASS if you fixed it right you could stay in the boat and just cross country that thing that would be a few good episodes of filming a cross country trip
That thing is the coolest thing you’ve bought imo. Please restore it all OG
I dig it when youtubers get together on joint projects. Get others involved for a full restoration.
I think you should keep the retro look but with a new power train for the van and new inboard engines and generator for the boat
This thing definitely deserves some brand new modern powerboat engines and a full interior update.
It was so awesome seeing that thing rip across the water. If it were mine I'd just go through both boat motors, refresh the good one and fix what's wrong with the bad one. Only deal breaker I see is if the crank is shot and you can't regrind or replace it. The van motor just needs the fuel systems and ignition made right. If your compression check is good, you should be ok, EXCEPT for the cam timing gear which has a nylon cover that cracks and crumbles with age. Just replace it with a solid gear and new chain, and you'll never have to deal with it again. Replace the water pump while you're at it, as the impeller fins are probably eaten away, which doesn't help when the rest of the system and the block are coated with scale. Wish I lived closer, as it would be a treat to rebuild that 360 if I did.
So F'N dope. Lift kit , Hell Cat Engine for the van. Two new 350 Mercruiser Magnums and she's back on the lake. I thank you for the great memories from better days.
I live in Las Vegas and I was the same as you are to the point that I cleaned the windows of my car and I would break out into a rolling sweat. It started 10 years ago, and I just got used to it. No matter what I did I would sweat and it would embarrass me. I went in to see my doctor for a normal check up and talked to him about this. He sent me to see a heart doctor and did some tests. Come to find out my heart was having a problem. I ended up having a pacemaker put in and I can do whatever I want now without sweating . It's 114 out today and I went and washed my Corvette and I had a little sweat on my brow and chest but nothing like I was before. This is common in people in their mid to late 30's and don't have any idea of why it happens and learn to live with it as you are doing. If I was you I would go have it check out but you will probably blow it off and say that's not what's happening to me. Well maybe it's not but it never hurts to have it checked out as it's better that having a Heart Attack and saying Goodbye to your family and friends.
I had a friend who sweated a lot. One night he was in Salt Lake and had a heart attack. His heart stopped for 22 minutes. Luckily the EMTs were able to restart his heart and rushed him the UofU. He ended up with a pace maker at 48 years old. Please have your heart checked.
Thanks for keeping the van! Can't wait to see it restored!
i think you should definitely restore the van. it feels so good seeing you cruising around in that legend.
You definetly earned my subscription with this restoration project!
Have to admit you made me gasp in awe as you ran those inboards dry.
Although mistreating and frying an engine is super entertaining it'll probably pay off to get a bit into marine-engine mechanics and especially the cooling part of it for some saved coin along the way..
I really love this project! Also digged the "miners stash"-treasure hunt even though there was a slight feeling of "was that stashed just for you guys" as the shovel was just in such a good condition.. Now I'm beginning to wonder if you fried these engines on purpose too!?
As I said -great entertainment value!
Gonna make some popcorn when the next episode on the boaterhome comes out!
You're living the greasemonkey dream! Keep it up! 😁
My thoughts would be to replace the van engine, transmission, and probably gears with a big Cummings diesel and updated Ram transmission and transfer case. You could even add big compound turbos for that extra pulling power. I would have to suggest braking upgrades not just service to the the existing brake system. and even a suspension restomod. The interior can be done with the restoration of the boat interior. It would be a good time to upgrade the electronics in both the van and boat sections. Replace the boat engines with a couple of Texas Speed 427's and service the propeller drive system or replace it. Running a closed loop coolant system with lake water radiator system would be probably the best cooling option. That is a lot of cost and time but that's what I would dream of doing to this. A good polishing of the exteriors would make it really pop.
😂 Why in the world would you need to do all that if it was even possible? The van has a drive train out of an Oldsmobile Toronado... Probably the famous 455/7.5 Olds Rocket with about 400hp originaly and a damn strong and very reliable transmission for the most part basically the front wheel drive stock version of what is in Cleet's Mullet... Both could be rebuilt and be very reliable with plenty of power. Yet you somehow want to cram an engine in that's twice as big and weighs twice as much and has so much extra power. You can tow three other boats behind it for what... There's no reason it needs to be done and frankly I don't know how you would even pull vw possible. It's absolutely ridiculous! As for adding more power to boat with texas speed 427s It wouldn't be bad, but why... It was just up on plane with motors that haven't ran for how long??? Old Chevy small block 350s Some of the most reliable V8 engines ever made with more aftermarket parts than you can imagine to add more power... What's the point in putting engine in that cost that much those texas pride as it's a boat you're not going to utilize the power from them rebuilding the original engines with some performance bolt on parts are all it needs.
What are you going to do with all that power and no traction. It's front wheel drive!
Gotta keep the funky vibes, one of the main reasons this thing is cool is because it’s so retro and weird looking, if it’s got a new van/cab in the front and giant outboards hanging off the back it’ll ruin the whole look of the thing.
1) Swap all three motors for modern stuff, 2) restore the interior to as close to original funk 3) party time!
Came here to say this! Update the internals and keep that wild piece of recreational history looking original.
Also agree, The outward appearance is the entire point. If it makes more sense to have modern inboards and engine for the truck do that but keep her stock looking from the outside. Coolest ride on the lake with that look.
Yo Heavy. You are the king of diesel engines and We all know it.
Throw a Cummins under the hood of the van.
And throw two 4bts in the boat. Idk if that would even work but if anyone on earth could make it happen, you could. Furthermore, you have a lot of cool stuff already but this is at the top of the list bro.
I'd love the see the entire rig restored to mint original condition, but with modern flair on the inside, and a mean paintjob on the outside. You need more grunt from the van too, throw something much bigger and heavier in there.
That is the most beautiful boater home I’ve ever seen!!!
Re-power the boat w/ updated engines. 2 Merc’s 350’s is easy. New cooling, charging systems, batteries and fuel it’s back at 90%
I’m sure the out drives need some love too.
Now the van. If yall can’t use the van. Keep everything from the back of the doors back “the fiberglass shell” and adapt whatever front wheel drive vehicle works and will fit bast. Finding the same set up may take some time but I hate is the best choice is to stick with the same setup but all newer stuff.!!
Love this project!! Who cares if it takes a year or so. I know the Diesel Boiz will come through 💪🏼🔥🔥🔥🚀🏴☠️
Maybe give the van itself a small Scania V8 for more power and good sound
That has to be my favorite purchase you guys have made LFG 🔥🔥🔥
100%
The accordion with the stairs I saw that I loved it❤😂
Definitely could use a 440 in that van. I had a Power Wagon with the 360 in it, ran a Quadra Junk carburetor, never left me stranded.
"I friggin love this stuff" while shaking head back and forth no violently
I love the short shots of Alan and then he chuckles. Dunno why but makes me laugh every time.
Oh yeah, keep it as original as possible please 🙏🏼
Having had three motorbikes with Fibreglass tanks, I can confirm that, with the introduction of Ethylene Fuel, it causes the fibreglass to rot.
You need to make an Aluminium fuel tank. . . . Best of luck with that..