A Beautiful “Beetle” – 13-1/2′ Elgin Runabout
VESSEL: 1950’s – 131/2′ Elgin Runabout “BEETLE”
OWNER: The Michels Family, Michigan, U.S.A.
PROJECT: Remove and replace every rib in vessel, 2 planks, the transom, decks, coaming, inwales, outwales, bilge stringers, outer stem and keel. Straighten hull and completely refasten vessel. Completely refinish “Beetle” inside and out.
“Beetle” had been with her original family since new. Unfortunately, like so many nice old boats, she was now suffering from years and years of neglect. It gave us great pleasure to completely restore and refinish this little craft for her original owners.
A tired and forlorn “Beetle” arrives at Woodwind Yachts
First the decks are removed to give us access in re-ribbing the vessel. Wooden wedges are epoxy glued into the deck beam fastener holes.
The deteriorated transom is removed along with 2 ribs and the old varnish at the stern. The old ribs are removed and replaced in stages.
5 coats of Epifanes varnish has been applied to the hull interior at the stern prior to new rib installation.
This view shows the new transom and framework have been permanently installed.
The new ribs are steam-bent into the vessel, then left to thoroughly dry. Here, the new ribs have been removed for varnishing prior to final installation.
This photograph shows approx. half of the new ribs installed. The hull is being varnished prior to the installation of the remainder of the ribs.
This photograph shows approx. half of the new ribs installed. The hull is being varnished prior to the installation of the remainder of the ribs.
The new decks have been installed and have just received their final coat of varnish. The hull has been painted in 2 colours, as she was originally.
This view shows the beautifully varnished interior with the seats installed.
This photograph shows the beautiful new transom. All the hardware was re-chromed prior to installation, and the steering wheel was repaired and repainted.
“Beetle” and the registration numbers are hand-painted onto the hull in dark green with gold outline to match the vessel. Here, she is sitting on her trailer awaiting pick up. What a beautiful “Beetle”!