Hi, we have been periodically cruising our old 38' Commander for a few hours at a time over the last month. We are still sorting out problems from engines that basically sat for 25 years -- seems like most of our problems are in the fuel system. This spring we have had to replace both electric fuel pumps on the main engines -- the previous pumps looked fine and made the appropriate clicking sounds, but we were having lots of engine problems that diminished when we replaced the pumps.
We recently rebuilt one of the Carter AFB carbs, and it seems to be doing OK, but today I bought an Edelbrock Performer marine carb to see if it improves starting and running performance. I understand Edelbrock bought the Carter AFB design, and the Performer is a modern version of the Carter. It will be nice to be able to easily get rebuild kits, jets and metering rods, etc. I will let you-all know how the Edelbrock performs -- for a while I will be running one original Carter and one Edelbrock.
Anyway, since we owned the boat (bought it last summer) we have gotten back to the dock on only one engine more than on two due to lots of problems that are a result of long un-use -- fuel pumps, filters, bad ignition switches, electrical problems, and on and on. We are slowly gaining on it. Yesterday we took a 2 hour cruise, and actually made it back with both engines running.
BY THE WAY, I just got back from two weeks in the Brittish Virgin Islands -- we chartered a 42' twin diesel bare boat and lived on board -- very nice. Here are a couple of pictures:
Captain Curt!
Chris Craft Commander co-owner Jim and his wife, Patti.
Enjoy, and best wishes, Curt...
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1967 fiberglass 38' Chris Craft Commander Sportfisher with twin 427 CID 300 HP engines.
