Official 1980's Weekender/Sundancer 300 thread

I know this is a few month old but; your engines came with 145 thermostats in it because Merc had no idea if the engine was going in a fresh water boat or a salt water boat. Boating on a Lake that never gets above 80 and spending most of my summers in the North Channel in 65 water at hull speed the temp gauges don't usually move above 125. I changed out my thermostats for 165 and the engines liked the warmer temps a lot better. They still only reach about 140 at hull speed but at 3200 they reach 165 in a few minutes.
Hotter combustion temperatures gives better burn, give you more power, less pollutions. Just make sure both engines run at same temperatures, if you must change the thermostats, temp sensors and maybe the gauges as need iit. Engine temperatures are most important factor for longevity of the engines, second to good oil and ignition timing (such as single grade oil proven brand). Not necessarily synthetic or blend oil! I also recommend an additive called MOA (motor oil additive), not kidding. If anyone have some questions about engines maybe I can advise since I am qualified by SAE and engine designer.
Regards,
Isken.
 
Wow that deck work is beautiful, money well spent I would say. I’d like to do that to my 89 340 EC but may need to do some electrical work this year first. Wish I had pots of dosh to do everything at once but my bank balance says “cool it lady”
 
Hi guys, can any one tell me where I might find a few boat wreckers. Im look for a wide back to back seat for my 30 weekender 1989. I heard they were used in various models.Both my front seats are only forward facing.
I got rid of my back to back seat on my sea ray last May because it was such a .itch to move when I needed to get to the starboard engine because I didn’t want to trash it, I left it with a boat salvage company on international speedway in Daytona Beach they may still have it. I think it’s called Surplus Marine. They have lots of Sea Ray stuff it was the starboard passenger forward seating. I replaced it with an lovely grey upholstered Ikea chaise lounge for comfort that I picked up for $60 at the Habitat for humanity shop. If it lasts a couple of years I’ll be laughing. It looks good is extremely comfortable and is great for watching the world go by on the dock. Also a small person can sleep comfortably on it if need be. What a bargain!
 
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Has anyone had to remove the hand hold that run down the center of our bow?

Mine need to be removed and rebedded and my mead liner inside is in perfect condition. I'm going to hate cutting the liner to find the screws. Can anyone give me some guildence
 
My new baby can’t wait until summer
 

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Only been out on the sea trials but really look forward to her must admit a little intimidated by her size being the biggest boat I have used was my 220 but here we go lol
 
I just picked up a swimplatforms.com swimplatform for the back of my 89. I have the brackets that hold it up, but I don't know what size hardware was used to bolt it to the hull. Anybody done this on this era boat? Did the support brackets go to the original bracket holes or did you have to install new ones? I know the platform has a whole bunch of new holes we'll be drillin'! Can't wait!! AND, what's the suggested product for filling the old holes? 5200?

I'm excited to have the extra space on the back of the boat!! Can't wait to get it installed!

Thanks for your guidance and experience!!
 
I have that exact same set up the deck is great boat is two hours away or I would take pi the show how mine was installed by the dealership
 
I have that exact same set up the deck is great boat is two hours away or I would take pi the show how mine was installed by the dealership
Drifter, did they use the same screw holes for the brackets underneath or do you remember? They seem like they will be very close, but I haven't taken the old platform off yet to get it up close and personal! Thanks and looking forward to the pics!
 
Hi all, new owner to a 1980 300 Weekender.

I have a leak underneath the windshield drivers side, to the point where it has rotted out the wooden support beam cabin side on one end. I can see bolt and nuts through this beam. Above deck, it appears the windshield frame is sectional, which would mean I dont have to take the entire frame off. Does anybody have any experience with this project?
 
Can you post some photos?

If the windshield is leaking you will have to lift the windshield and rebed the screws and frame. Another member here did it and posted photos and the process for the rest of us.
 

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