This beautiful 1931 DODGE 21'6" SPLIT COCKPIT was a full frame out restoration to near Concours condition. The very rare Dodge Runabout was found by the current owners father at a farm auction. It had been found in the 1970's behind a service station in the Muskokas and unfortunately she was now in semi derelict condition. Bonus was the original numbers matching engine was still there and most all of the hardware save things like the Mermaid, a few Cleats, the Hatch Rails and the Rear Windshield which had been modified at some point.

After being stored in a Barn for 40 years, the owners Sons decided to have it restored for their Father who dreamed of hearing the engine run and enjoy a ride in the boat on Okanagan Lake. We restored the boat over a 3 year period and were able to grant the Father his wish as he approached his 90th Birthday. With this bucket list item crossed off, he passed away a few years back, leaving a wonderful legacy in his wake.

Disassembly 

Virtually all the African Mahogany on the boat was replaced with new with the exception of the stringers, a few frames and the bulkheads. Original Mahogany salvaged from the hull planks and deck were used to rebuild the missing parts of the bulkhead and any other areas that needed it.

Frames and Bottom

In consultation with the owners it was decided to go with an Epoxy style bottom using Marine Mahogany plywood and then a layer of Fiberglass cloth to the waterline. Careful attention was made to imitate the lines of the inner bottom to reflect that style.

Hull Sides & Deck

The whole hull was skinned with an inner layer of 3 or 4mm marine mahogany plywood which makes it totally 'leak proof' no longer needing to soak up plus means the planks on the hull sides and deck do not move as much reducing upkeep.

All the Hulls side and Deck planks were screwed in from the inside using thousands of the same style screws and washers as factory.

The Engine

We believe this boat is one of only two survivors with a numbers matching Lycoming Straight Eight engine. The engine was sent to noted Classic Marine engine specialist Jim MacNeilly in Seattle for a complete re-build. Attempts were made to find an original aluminum Exhaust manifold but with no luck the decision was to retain the aftermarket or custom made Brass & Copper manifold that it had. We figure it had been replaced in the 1950's. Also missing was the correct Distributor so a near match from an early 1950's Chrysler Hemi was adapted to work. Another upgrade requested by the client was to convert to 12 volt and add electronic ignition.

Interior & Electrical

The whole wiring was done using period style wire using replica staples and wire ends. The Gauge Panel was re-finished along with all the gauges to original look but with 12 volt adaption where needed. The upholstery color and grain/texture was replicated in modern vinyl and foam replaced the springs.  With that in mind there currently are thoughts of replacing the upholstery with Leather and going back to the original Spring style seats.