$1500
Vintage Wooden Runabout Project – Ford Side Valve Powered – Rare South Australian History
Offered for sale is a rare vintage wooden runabout project, believed to have been built by Bert Henley-Smith, Chief Engineer of the former Whyalla Shipyards.
Measuring approximately 4.7 metres in length with a beam of around 1.5 metres, the boat is of bond-wood construction and sits on an unregistered steel trailer.
Power is provided by a marinised Ford Side Valve engine. The current owner was advised that the engine was fully reconditioned by Bert Henley-Smith when installed, however it has not been run for many years and should be assumed to require inspection and recommissioning before use.
The vessel was acquired by the current owner approximately 15 years ago with the intention of restoration, however changing priorities mean the project is now being offered for sale. Prior to this, the boat spent time exposed to the weather and will require a comprehensive restoration by someone experienced in traditional timber boat construction.
While certainly a project, the boat presents an opportunity to preserve an interesting piece of South Australian maritime history. The combination of period timber construction, documented ownership history and the marinised Ford Side Valve engine will appeal to collectors, restorers and enthusiasts of vintage wooden craft.
Features:
- Approx. 4.7m vintage wooden runabout
- Bond-wood construction
- Marinised Ford Side Valve engine
- Unregistered steel trailer included
- Built by Bert Henley-Smith, former Chief Engineer of Whyalla Shipyards
- Long-term storage
- Ideal restoration project
The boat is being offered as-is and will require restoration. Inspection is recommended.