Topic: Restore or not restore that is the question. – Antique Outboard Motor Club,Inc

This topic has 10 replies, 8 voices, and was last updated 10 years, 2 months ago by Mumbles.

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August 21, 2015 at 9:21 pm #2319
priwing
Participant
I picked up a rare champion race motor total original unmolested. I would like opinions on doing a total restoration or just clean and get running. It is in very nice condition for its age and use. They are beautiful motors restored. But they’re only original once. What should I do.
August 21, 2015 at 9:35 pm #22461
dave-bernard
Participant
US Member
Pics would help.
August 21, 2015 at 9:50 pm #22463
garry-in-michigan
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Lifetime Member
Like you say – "They are only original once." On the other hand, A maticulessly and authentically restored model would be indistinguishable from an original in 20 or so years. The problem being that an inaccurate restoration could in 20 or so years cause great confusion as to what the original "look" actually was. In other words, if you do decide to restore it, be absolutely sure the restoration is accurate.
August 21, 2015 at 10:04 pm #22464
chris-p
Participant
I would say the majority of collectors, want them original. They are only like that once as you say. I keep all the nice originals in my collection. The restored motors I sell. I could always restore another, but never find a beauty original again.

I went to an auction where the dirty, gritty originals were going for much more than the fully restored motors. No one wanted them.

Just my 2 cents.

Im not against restoring motors, I do it all the time. But I paint the ones that really need it. I keep the choice originals, choice.
August 21, 2015 at 10:09 pm #22466
Goman
Participant
I believe my next one I’ll get mechanically correct and running then restore. Just in case I have to go back in…again!
August 22, 2015 at 12:07 am #22475
mr-asa
Participant
As Garry said, be meticulous with the restoration, and take pictures of absolutely everything. It will help give credence to your restoration and help others later down the line.

Get pics of it dirty and clean. Take pictures of every single thing that looks important before you take it apart
August 22, 2015 at 12:21 am #22477
priwing
Participant
Well crap. I’ll have to sleep on this one
August 22, 2015 at 1:18 am #22479
mr-asa
Participant
No matter what you do, take and share pictures
August 22, 2015 at 1:57 am #22480
Mumbles
Participant
’57 Johnson CD 5.5 horse as found.

After tweaking it a bit.
August 22, 2015 at 2:00 am #22481
Buccaneer
Participant
US Member
That’s a beauty Mumbles……. but too nice to use now!

Prepare to be boarded!
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