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June 20, 2008

5

Welcome Phil Wotherspoon and His 1977 Cobalt Bowrider

Hello!

My name is Phil Wotherspoon and I live by the lake at Deep Creek Lake, Maryland.

I’m 24 and I work at a boat dealership called Bill’s Marine Service.

One of the salesmen had an old Cobalt that had sunk (the bolts for the swim platform had worn their holes big) and he just didn’t have the time to deal with it. I bought it from him for a very small amount and have begun the process of refurbishing the interior.

It is a 1977 Cobalt bowrider. The paint on it is only two years old and the engine still purrs like a very loud kitten. The upholstery in the interior was a wreck. It was quite beat up, torn and smelled pretty bad.

As of today, 6/17, I have the interior completely torn out all the way down to the carpet (which is the next thing to go). I’m documenting the progress in pictures if you would like to see! Working at a dealership is a big advantage in this boat “flip” because of all the spare parts lying around.

My design for the restoration introduces the styling and features of the new Cobalts with my own little twist. I didn’t really like the layout how it was because of all the wasted space. She is now named the Phoenix now for obvious reasons, haha.

I would love to be a member of your club! I had plans on selling the boat when I was finished but now that I’m really developing the idea I will probably just keep it!

This process will be a good stepping stone as the dealership has about 6 more Cobalts of the same era just waiting for the same TLC. I have my own little cottage industry!

Hope to hear from you!  unclecat@hotmail.com 

Read more from Club Member Pics, Cobalt 18BR
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  • Dennis Heath

    Hi! Where do you find parts for you boat? I am looking at a 1979 Cobalt but don’t know if I can find parts for it. If you can help me, I be very happy!
    Thanks,
    Dennis
    Topeka, Kansas

  • Bill Droppelman

    I have a 1978 Cobalt Trihul with maroon interior. The hull and interior are in great shape for their age (only one seam on the aft port seat has a frayed seam). The problem is the 305 Chev(898 Mercruiser) has a cracked block. The petcock on the lower right side of the block became plugged and the water froze. My intent is to sell the boat and trailer as is. My intrest in continued maintenance and operation of boats is declining so I will not pusue re-engining/rebuilding.
    As you have sound running gear and need an interior, is there any interest? Note, I am likely to sell within the next month.

    Background: Second owner of boat – always garaged during winter and full time for last 20 years. I have original brochure, maintenance manual and records. The entire set of running tarps (3) and storage tarp are in very good shape. Engine has 693 hours, new exhaust bellows installed last year,. Has stainless prop ( with new backup aluminum). Includes single axle Caulkins trailer – surge brakes inoperable. Plenty of pictures available

  • Mike Kozanecki

    Hey Phil,

    You still work for the same marina in Maryland?

  • Robert

    I have a 1977 Cobalt boat for sale for the best offer. see my craigslist ad under Madison Wisconsin. 2454207412 I have all the information on it and it is ready to be rolled away on the trailer

  • Aaron Crandall

    i need help,,,,like a phone number to talk to someone who knows what they are doing,,,,please