A mid-winter musing about our Chris Crafts.
As my 1973 41’ is tucked away indoors waiting for its 51’st launch and my 30th year of ownership I find some things remarkable.
First, the initial product quality and design has made it possible for these boats to survive decades of use by multiple owners. Second, those very qualities inspire decades of maintenance and care. It takes both.
This all results in so many of these boats still proudly in use. It’s nice to think about in mid-winter and far better when getting back on board in spring.
Chris Orphal . . . I agree with you regarding toerail replacement projects. It demands a a lot of measurments and woodworking skills . . . with expensive lumber. Mine are mahogany so there was a little rot here and there and fortunately I only had to replace a few sections. Machining the openings for the fuel fills, vents, deck cleats and stanchions was a challenge for this novice.