New "free" boat

[sailormanbigd]

I was just given an old AMF Puffer from a neighbor. Most of the hardware has been removed, and a few terrible fiberglass patches on the hull, including glassing over the centerboard slot. I can repair the hull no problem but was wondering if the little boat is worth the cost of a new rig? I spent some time looking for a used mast and boom and so far have had no luck. I was considering making a mast and boom from closet dowel but the mast is supported with forestay and two shrouds so would need a mast track of some kind? I can get a windsurfer sail pretty cheap if that would work?
Anyone have a Puffer or know how they sail? I was thinking to use it as a trainer for anyone wanting to learn to sail? I have 3 sons and they have friends, etc.

 

[Spindrift NH]

I have fond memories of sailing a Puffer as a kid. I was single handing it by age 11, and taught a friend to sail in it. We would take the boat out in 10-15 knot winds, tighten the sails, and hold on until the wind blew us over. They're great boats for kids, I would encourage you to find the correct rig for best sailing performance and for teaching on a boat with 2 sails.

 

[sailormanbigd]

thanks

ok that's one vote for go for it. I have found the rig dimensions from a puffer forum. Mast is 17'10" and boom is 7"7-1/4" long and stepped from deck with a U-shaped tabernackle. Anyone know where I can find them? I can make the rudder and centerboard easy enough. I am excited to get new people sailing, thats how I got hooked. It was on a 10 foot styrefoam sailboat-think cheap cooler! Any other sailboats with roughly the same rig that I might use?

 

[Ted]

New free boat

If you enjoy working on boats as many of us do, and money isn't an issue, then go for it. However, you have to consider the time and expense of making this boat useable again. These boats can be purchased for under $500 in some areas and may be in better condition than the boat that your neighbor is giving you. Some even include a trailer. Here are a few for example. It looks like a fun boat for you and the kids.
http://boats.smartcarguide.com/amf-puffer-sailboat
It sounds like the FREE boat is a bit of a project. Replacing the rig and other hardware may cost as much as purchasing a complete boat. They may all need work but at least you are starting off with most of the major parts and possibly a trailer. I vote to pass on it even though I love messing around with boats.

 

[sailormanbigd]

Re: new free boat

well Ted, you have nailed it: I love messing around on boats, with boats, to boats-mostly sail. I got the boat for free, i called on a free trailer on craigslist, I can build the centerboard and rudder "custom" and glass work for under $100 for sure. The bits and pieces will likely be "custom" home built as well? Like I said, maybe a closet dowel for mast and some tyvek, or tarp sails? Money is an issue!!! but doing things diy and for cheap is what sailing is all about to me

 

[Calif. Ted]

Re: new free boat

In my village, if a neighbor comes around with a "free" horse or boat we run them off with a shotgun.

 

[MrUnix]

Re: new free boat

Over the years, I've found that 'free' boats are usually the most expensive

If you have the time, money and patience to find all the missing bits and do the work, go for it. The amount of work, time and costs will largely depend on how close to OEM you want to make it and how much you have to start with.

Based on your post.. you will need at least a mast, boom, sails and a rudder. Those are some of the most expensive parts of a sail boat. You might be better off finding a fairly cheap 'parts' boat that has most of what you need instead of trying to mix and match what you can find individually.

Cheers,
Brad

 

[sailormanbigd]

mr unix

Yes it would be nice to find a donor boat to get parts off. I have detailed drawings of the rudder and centerboard and can build them for under $50. The mast and boom will be the trick and then some sails. I willl update as progress hapens. I can patch the hull and slap my british seagull on the back for a putput dinghy at least. Then wait for something to come along. On the Bolder super nymph I used a scrap flagpole for the mast, cost $20 and comes apart. thanks

 

[Joe]

Re: new free boat

Sounds like your neighbor gave you the donor boat....after all the important parts were harvested. Don't use a closet pole for the mast. For ideas, go look at the stitch and glue kit boats available on the internet.... http://www.bateau.com/index.php

 

[Crackaloon]

A friend of mine had one of these, so I notice them while I surf. Keep an eye on Craigslist and you'll find all the parts either free or super cheap. Last Fall I found a whole boat with everything for $100 or $150 with a trailer and damaged hull (sorry I didn't save that). It's a matter of patience. They're supposed to be fun little boats. Personally, I think it would be a fun project.

 

[Bil4sail]

I was just given an old AMF Puffer from a neighbor. Most of the hardware has been removed, and a few terrible fiberglass patches on the hull, including glassing over the centerboard slot. I can repair the hull no problem but was wondering if the little boat is worth the cost of a new rig? I spent some time looking for a used mast and boom and so far have had no luck. I was considering making a mast and boom from closet dowel but the mast is supported with forestay and two shrouds so would need a mast track of some kind? I can get a windsurfer sail pretty cheap if that would work?
Anyone have a Puffer or know how they sail? I was thinking to use it as a trainer for anyone wanting to learn to sail? I have 3 sons and they have friends, etc.

I own a Puffer with a new mast made from a Laser sailboat. Since they are plentiful, you may be able to get one

 

[sailormanbigd]

yes, thanks

for the various options and positive remarks. If its not a months worth of work and the same for money why not give it a go. I can take my time, no rush, and wait for something to show up that will work.
I am getting another "free boat" as well. I was spreading the word to my fellow sailing friends about needing a rig and small trailer....and one offered me a neglected Chrysler buccaneer 18 for free. He says its been in the water for about 5 years (barnuckles and sun fading, mold, etc) the rig is intact but running needs replaced, sails are questionable, etc, etc. So I am now an "Admiral" the rig is to big for the puffer, but the 18 buccaneer looks to be a fun boat and bigger? Say, what do you call " THE Admiral" when you become one? haha