Chris Craft Rocket Runabout

For auction is a beautiful 1947 Chris Craft Rocket Runabout. Shipped from the factory on December 7, 1946 as hull number R16-204.

The engine is the original Chrysler Ace, 92 HP, 6 cylinder model SM-6, serial number 14119. The boat was completely restored in 1986 and has always been garaged and trailered for use. The restoration included a complete re-fastening of the boat with brass screws, re-planking of some of the deck planks, 14 coats of varnish, wet sanded between coats and a professional triple plate show chrome application to all bright parts. The instruments are original and in fine working order. The stern pole is original including the glass globe.

The engine was professionally re-built with 0.30 over pistons, re-conditioned crank and rods and recently received a bearing and valve freshening which included the installation of hardened exhaust seats for the use of non-leaded gasoline, cylinder honing and rings. A new water pump and fuel pump were recently installed as well as motor mounts. The engine has approximately 200 hours on the original re-build and 5 hours on the latest freshening. The original engine tag needs to be restored and reinstalled.

The fuel tank is original with no leaks. The tank was coated on the interior during the original restoration and shows some minor sediment of late. A Fram high flow, high performance, cleanable in-line filter has been installed and captures any miscellaneous sediment.The boat was converted to a 12 volt system with a re-wound starter and marine alternator. The boat bottom was re-caulked and is tight with some soaking previous to use as is customary for an original wooden boat. There is a bilge pump. I had intended to apply a fresh coat of varnish recently but other commitments prevented that. The upholstery was redone in oxblood marine leather and shows a slight uniform fade in color but still looks very nice.

The trailer was custom built for the boat, it is not a standard trailer that was adapted for use. The construction is 2x4, 11 ga. tubing and rides ultra smooth and straight.

I am the third owner of the Chris Craft, purchased by me in 1982. I can attest to its authenticity and know every square inch of the boat due to the extensive restoration and countless hours I spent on it. I also have numerous other photographs.

Currently there are three videos on YouTube of the boat. The links are:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NOSbqen_VEg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C_X4g9TCdQ0

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4uBOfT1KOtk

Or just type in Chris Craft Rocket in the search box of YouTube and you will see them listed.

The boat is not used, remains under cover in storage and needs to go to someone who can appreciate it as I have. The boat must be picked up. It is listed locally for sale and I reserve the right, with no pending bids, to end the listing early.

Thank you for looking.