Greetings to all. I hope this intro finds you and your family in the best of health, your waters smooth and your sky blue and sunny.
I’m Charlie, a 23-year military veteran. The state that I call home is referred to as “The land of 10,000 lakes”. Minnesota USA.

I just took ownership (three days ago) of my first “big” boat. My 1983 32’ aft cabin needs a little – well, maybe a lot – of love. However, I couldn’t be prouder to call her mine.
She has been on stands at a marina for about 7 years. The previous owner didn’t want to pay to do the repairs needed and was behind on storage fees. He said if I took care of the fees, I could have her.
She has twin 454s. (Update: I believed she had 454s because that is what the mechanic the marina told me. After much advice from the wonderful members here, I did some research and discovered that I was given misinformation, and the engines are instead 350s.)

The previous owner told me that one of the engines was in good/ok shape and that the other one had been pulled, rebuilt, and reinstalled. However, the rebuilt engine still needs the final assembly completed. Manifolds, intake, carb, valve covers and a few other things. All I can do is take his word for all of this as I never saw her run and there is a box of parts along with the bigger pieces lying on the floor.

I am in desperate need of any type of owner’s manuals and maintenance manuals for each of the things on board… Engine, genset, various pumps, electronics, and anything and everything else. Even just bits and pieces of accurate information would be most appreciated. Also, any tips and tricks with regards to the operation of this old girl from those with experience would be happily received.

I am going to post a few pictures of my floating lady (no, that’s not her name), however, you will notice that while most captains showcase the beauty of their boat, mine will not be glamor shots. At least not at first. They will basically be – before and after – types of images. Because I live in the northern U.S., I probably won’t be getting much completed on her during the winter Just the same, as things progress, I will try to include updated pictures for those who might be interested. To some of you, the improvements may not seem like much. However, like a parent watching his child grow and change, they will be big events for me Your comments and or constructive input will always be welcome.

Hopefully, some day, I can meet a few fellow Carver owners. Until then, take care.