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Spectra 20 Engine Cover Measurements

hd85ironhead

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Does anyone have the measurements for the original Spectra 20 Jet engine cover? I've been asking/looking for years, but can't seem to find them. I'm in Rhode Island, so there aren't many around here, if any. I could also use the measurements for the cover base and how it attaches to the stringers. I'm trying to get this done by Memorial Day weekend. Any help is appreciated. Jason


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sintax

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Hard to imagine there are many out there with original interior. I can’t say I’ve ever seen one in person.

I’ve only seen a handful of early-mid 70s boats with original interiors. A couple schiada’s, and a few other odd time capsules stashed away.
 

Backlash

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Jason, what measurements are you looking for? In the past, whenever we did boats with interiors that had rear jump seats like pictured above, you would size the engine cover to the motor. Leave a little bit of space so nothing catches on fire, and nothing gets in the way of the pulleys, and you should be good.

Let us know exactly what you're looking for, and if you can post pictures that always helps. 👍
 

hd85ironhead

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Jason, what measurements are you looking for? In the past, whenever we did boats with interiors that had rear jump seats like pictured above, you would size the engine cover to the motor. Leave a little bit of space so nothing catches on fire, and nothing gets in the way of the pulleys, and you should be good.

Let us know exactly what you're looking for, and if you can post pictures that always helps. 👍
Thank you! My original engine cover was completely destroyed years ago and I was not able to use it as a template. I just need the measurements from each face of the engine cover, so I can fabricate one from scratch. I'd like to keep the original shape and design. Also, I'd like to see how the base is attached. I know a few people say the base rests on the floor, but what keeps it from blowing away at 50mph, with the top part of the cover latched to it?
 

Backlash

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Thank you! My original engine cover was completely destroyed years ago and I was not able to use it as a template. I just need the measurements from each face of the engine cover, so I can fabricate one from scratch. I'd like to keep the original shape and design. Also, I'd like to see how the base is attached. I know a few people say the base rests on the floor, but what keeps it from blowing away at 50mph, with the top part of the cover latched to it?
The doghouse is usually hinged on the front, where it rests on the floor. That way, it simply tilts forward to give you access to the motor. When you tilt it back towards the transom, the weight of the doghouse keeps it in place. The bucket seats on either side prevent it from shifting to the left or right.
 

alohajeff

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I have a buddy in Upland with a Spectra 20. It had the original doghouse rebuilt and it functions exactly as Backlash says. The base is free floating. It is not attached to the floor or stringer. It slides under the top cap at the transom. The top is mounted on hinges. We always used an oar to keep it propped up. This Spectra had no floor... or stringers. It had a motor box and the dog house was more or less sized to that.

The width and length depends on the engine position, manifolds and accessory drive system. My buddies is a 460 Ford and a Jet. Not sure those measurements would help. The measurement you get from a different setup may be useless to your own but he'd probably be willing to throw a tape on it and take some pictures.

Aloha
 
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hd85ironhead

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I have a buddy in Upland with a Spectra 20. It had the original doghouse rebuilt and it functions exactly as Backlash says. The base is free floating. It is not attached to the floor or stringer. It slides under the top cap at the transom. The top is mounted on hinges. We always used an oar to keep it propped up. This Spectra had no floor... or stringers. It had a motor box and the dog house was more or less sized to that.

The width and length depends on the engine position, manifolds and accessory drive system. My buddies is a 460 Ford and a Jet. Not sure those measurements would help. The measurement you get from a different setup may be useless to your own but he'd probably be willing to throw a tape on it and take some pictures.

Aloha
Thanks, That is exactly the setup I have, 1/4 stringer, 460/Jet. Only thing, the hinges on mine were at the rear, not the front.
 

Backlash

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I snagged these pictures off of a for sale ad here on RDP. I think this may help as it gives you an idea how things are situated. This boat does have a floor, but it should still be fairly similar.

Screenshot_20230507-230121~2.png


Screenshot_20230507-230112~2.png
 

hd85ironhead

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Thanks. That looks like a v-drive. My setup is/was exactly like this one. Don't remember where I got the photo, on a listing or on this site. But saved it for reference, a while ago. I'm sure some will recognize it. I'm trying to rebuild exactly like original.


80393052_1404969986328247_4713302706972786688_n.jpg
 
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SBMech

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Thanks. That looks like a v-drive. My setup is/was exactly like this one. Don't remember where I got the photo, on a listing or on this site. But saved it for reference, a while ago. I'm sure some will recognize it. I'm trying to rebuild exactly like original.


View attachment 1228007

I have not installed my planned interior upgrade yet, still have the stock jet doghouse and supports/wedges on the floor. Before I remove them, I'll measure it all out and take photos. It's just how you would think, flush with the floor, with a few supporting pieces on the sides for the cover to drop on to so as to be secured.
 

hd85ironhead

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I have not installed my planned interior upgrade yet, still have the stock jet doghouse and supports/wedges on the floor. Before I remove them, I'll measure it all out and take photos. It's just how you would think, flush with the floor, with a few supporting pieces on the sides for the cover to drop on to so as to be secured.
Thank you!
 
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