FREE 2-DAY SHIPPING
ALL DOMESTIC ORDERS
Back to Top
Restoration Plans: Inspecting the 2005 Contender 31 Open
Before we turn a single wrench, we need a roadmap. In this detailed walk-around, we assess the structural integrity of our new project boat, expose the dangerous condition of the trailer, and confront the notorious "dry rot" corrosion issue plaguing our Yamaha F225 outboards.
The Project Platform: A Legend in Need of Love
When selecting a project boat for Marine Tech, we wanted a vessel that represented the pinnacle of offshore performance but suffered from the common maintenance neglect that our tools are designed to address. The 2005 Contender 31 Open fits this profile perfectly.
Known for its aggressive 24.5-degree deadrise and uninterrupted fishing layout, the Contender 31 is a machine built for running hard in rough water. However, a high-performance hull is useless without reliable power and safe transport. Our initial inspection at the shop revealed that while the fiberglass "bones" of the boat were solid, the mechanical systems were on life support.
Technical Specifications: 2005 Contender 31 Open
| Hull Length (LOA) | 32' 6" |
| Beam | 9' 4" |
| Deadrise (at Transom) | 24.5 Degrees (Deep-V) |
| Fuel Capacity | 240 Gallons (Standard) |
| Dry Weight | ~5,200 lbs (Hull Only) |
| Draft | 18" |
The Inspection: Identifying Critical Failures
A restoration project of this scale requires a triage approach. We categorized the boat's issues into three tiers: Safety (Trailer), Mechanical (Engines), and Modernization (Electronics).
1. The Trailer Disaster: A Safety Hazard
The Magic Tilt triple-axle trailer that came with the boat was, frankly, illegal. Upon pulling the wheels, we found that the previous owner had completely removed the brake calipers. Towing a 9,000lb load (boat + fuel + trailer) with zero braking assist is incredibly dangerous.
The Fix: The trailer requires a total overhaul. We plan to install a complete Kodiak Stainless Steel Disc Brake Kit on all axles. This upgrade involves welding on a new surge brake actuator, running new hydraulic lines, and installing new hubs and rotors designed to withstand saltwater immersion.
2. Yamaha F225 "Dry Exhaust" Corrosion
The boat is powered by twin 2004 Yamaha F225 (3.3L V6) four-stroke outboards. While these engines are generally reliable, the 2000–2005 models have a well-documented manufacturing defect known as "Dry Exhaust Corrosion" or "Mid-Section Rot."
The Engineering Flaw: Yamaha used a coating on the aluminum exhaust liners that was insufficient for protecting the metal from the extreme heat of the exhaust gases. Over time, the exhaust passages corrode and pit from the inside out. If left unchecked, this corrosion can eat through the aluminum casting, allowing water to enter the engine or hot exhaust gases to melt the surrounding plastic components (like the water pump housing).
The Plan: Before investing in standard maintenance, we must drop the lower units and use a borescope to inspect the exhaust tuners. If the corrosion has advanced to the oil pan or powerhead, the engines may be total losses.
3. The Electronics Time Capsule
The helm is currently equipped with a mix of Furuno and Simrad electronics from 2004. While functional 20 years ago, they lack modern CHIRP sonar, NMEA 2000 networking, and high-definition radar capabilities.
The Upgrade: We are gutting the console. The plan is to install a complete Garmin Glass Helm, featuring dual 12-inch multifunction displays (MFDs), a Fantom radar dome for bird-finding capability, and the Reactor 40 autopilot system for hands-free navigation.
