New boat owner

[Bill]

Hi,
I am a first-time boat owner. I recently purchased a 1983 Carver 2807 Riviera (aft cabin) and am using it as a liveaboard. The boat had been abandoned for a number of years so it is in rough shape. I have given it a good cleaning and now am ready to start repairing it. I am a bit overwhelmed at the list of things that I need to fix so I am trying to prioritize the list to tackle the most critical ones first. My primary needs are heat, plumbing, and new windows (the existing ones are broken and leak).

Any suggestions on where to purchase replacement parts and/or how to troubleshoot/repair existing systems?

Thanks for any advice you can give. I am so glad that I found this discussion board.

[waybomb]

Use ebay for parts.
As for repairs, one at a time, post up the issue and we all can. help
Welcome aboard!

[Viper]

Welcome aboard
You're on the right track by focusing on the critical systems required to fit your particular needs before moving on to others. Pick the most important you need up and running, then focus on that only and don't worry about the amount of work that lies ahead, think only about the work needed to repair the one item at a time. Having said that, it's inevitable that one thing will lead to another and while working on one of your critical systems, you'll run into something else that may be practical to repair while you're in a space or have something dismantled for a critical item. It'll be a judgement call whether it's best to repair the other item now while you're there or not. The amount of work needed to gain access and finances will likely be the deciding factors. We have a great bunch of folks here that are always eager to help so don't hesitate to ask for it. It's likely one of us has gone through the same thing.

Now, let's get started with the most critical task....post some pictures

Good luck and keep us posted.

[bud37]

Welcome to the forum and Carver, Bill.....good luck with your projects, again lots of help here........

[RGrew176]

Welcome Aboard. Since you are intending to use the boat as a liveaboard I would fix the broken windows. A good cleaning inside and out would also be on my agenda. Then tackle the heating and air conditioning. A/C is a must on a boat if you live in a warm area. Plumbing issues could follow. Of course you will run into many other issues that need to be addressed.

At my marina there is a gentleman who has a 28 Riveria across from me. He lives aboard all season. Of course it's winter now so his boat along with mine is up on the hard until spring.