Course How To

Upgrades and winterize an aluminum Kingscraft Houseboat

by Chez
(St Paul, MN)

A typical clean looking Kingscraft houseboat.

A typical clean looking Kingscraft houseboat.

Going to upgrade and winterize a Kingcraft houseboat. We are closing on an all aluminum Kingscraft houseboat this week, and are looking for a spray on insulation.


We plan on a summer of upgrades and winterizing and are looking for recommendations. Yes, Sharon from Watergate, we know about Walmart!

Thanks Chez.



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Reply - Answer
Well Chez, congratulations on your purchase of a aluminum Kingscraft houseboat. Those Kings Crafts are very good house boats, with plenty of space, low maintenance aluminum, and with great "classic lines".

As to Tips on How to Winterize a Houseboat, and Winter and Cold Climate Houseboat Living Tips, you will find these articles of interest to you.

In regards to "spray insulation", I know that some boaters have had great results with it. I just can't remember where I saw the information, possibly your could "google it'.


Lastly, hopefully some of our readers will share and post comments about their Kingscraft houseboat experiences. Feel free to use the "Click here to post comments." link found at the bottom of this page.


Thanks again for sharing, IAN from all-about-houseboats


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Comments for Upgrades and winterize an aluminum Kingscraft Houseboat

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Click here to add your own comments

Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		44' Kings Craft
by: Lakerat247

Hi all,
Since purchase I have completely stripped and rebuilt the interior with Lloyd’s certified 1088 flooring and solid Sapele interior marine paneling in addition to replacement of all the original wiring, power panels, power inlets, installed dual isolation transformers, a 2000 watt Magna Sine inverter system, a lithium ion battery bank and a new 5KW Westerbeke Generator. The original plumbing was stripped out and everything replaced. A new custom solid hickory helm station was fabricated with everything new. The boat is also fully insulated, 4 layers ceilings and walls including a complete spray foam envelope with all new dual pane series 1800 marine windows from Motion Windows. The two rooftop AC/heat units were replaced and a 1 ton mini split heat pump installed for the master cabin. Additionally, the boat was hauled out to install an armored bow / keel for beaching, bottom coated with coal tar epoxy, a new Capac system installed and all new anodes. A Maxwell RC8-8 12V Windlass was installed and the deck reinforced to handle the new load. The boat has (4) separate bilge pumps to three separate batteries. Also, the boat has been completely repainted exterior and decking with Imron 3.5. The only original fixture left in the boat is the Kings Craft tub / shower unit which is pretty cool. This is my second Kings Craft rebuild. Aluminum is the only way to go!
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Screens for 1972 40' Kings Craft Houseboat
by: David

Hello,

We are purchasing a Kings Craft 40 and it needs replacement window screens which appears challenging since some are parallelogram shaped. We are in the Twin Cities, so are near Chez. Any suggestions on screen makers, salvage yards (I travel, so any location could be interesting), etc. would be appreciated.
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		For those looking for replacement window tracks...
by: Kevin C

I've been looking for replacement window tracks for my 1973 Kingscraft 35. I finally stumbled on a post in a discussion forum with the contact information for a gentleman named Tom. He can be reached at 619-208-6458. I called him today (2019-05-27) and he says he's got quite a bit of the 3-channel aluminum track. Good luck to all of you with your refurbishing projects!
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Kings craft Windows
by: Dugg

Looking to replace window channels, not having much luck finding these three channel tracks, plz help. Thank you Doug
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Kings Craft Window Tracks
by: Bob L.

You can also contact Marinette Marine for the same window tracks in aluminum or plastic, they will also advise you on how to install them.

Somebody was also looking for zinc bars, they are also available from Fla., I believe the website was boatzinc.com

I hope this helps. Bob L.
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Window track
by: tommy gentle

You can contact Wynne Enterprises in Florence, AL and they can help on the windows and track. They made all our windows at KC at the factory.
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Prop pitch
by: Anonymous

At the factory we installed on our Diesel powered boats a 21 Pitch props. Some customers wanted a lower ratio and we offered a 18 as well as the 21. A higher pitch will deliver greater top speeds but slower acceleration. Hope this helps.
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		44' KingsCraft Prop info for Perkins Diesels
by: james

I have a 44' KingsCraft with Perkins 6.3 diesel engines and am looking for information regarding the factory specs for prop size and pitch. If you have info it would be appreciated.

Thank you, James
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Please help with Kingscraft
by: Anonymous

I have been reading the threads and I do not know how old they are. I need window tracks also. Also if anyone has info on how to replace them.
Thanks,
Melanie
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Need info about zincs for Kingscraft
by: Anonymous

My 1974 Kingcraft 44' houseboat was last pulled out three years ago. New zincs then. A diver tells me several zincs should now be replaced.

I don't find the size zincs in local marine supply houses. The guy who is working on this says he's going to have to make a bulk purchase and custom make them. Is this right?

Keel Zincs Two pieces 48"x2"x ¼"
Stern Hull Zincs Four pieces 12"x2"x ¼"
Rudder Zincs Four pieces 8"x2"x ¼"
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		KC prop
by: James

John O,

I am doing a complete overhaul on my KC and switching to OB. I have a shaft and prop available if interested. James
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		KC Prop Size
by: Bob L

What I did was walk through the marina one winter and looked at the prop sizes on similar boats, and tweaked it per prop shop recommendations.

Bob L
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Prop Specs Desperately Needed
by: John O

I have a 34 foot Kingscraft with a single CCW engine and I need a prop. Does anyone know the original specs for a prop or have any recommendations for a new prop. Thanks
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Window channel replacement
by: James

I am completely renovating my 1971 35' KingsCraft. My current project is window tracks. My KC has a white plastic 3-track channel. Does anyone know where I can purchase exact replacement channel? Thanks, James
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Houseboat Window Tracks
by: Tommy Gentle

At Kings Craft we used two major sources for our Doors and windows. Wynne Enterprises and Loxscreen for the plastic trim.

Both are still in business and can help you with your replacement parts for the Kings Craft boats.

Wynne Enterprises 256-383-5040
Loxscreen 803-822-8200

These are two good companies that can make almost anything for the Kings Craft boats as well as any other make and model. Hope this helps. Tommy Gentle
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		New waterproof houseboat windows
by: Tom

Bob, I have decided to replace the windows with a newer design that is more waterproof. Motion Windows and Wynne are two I am looking at. It will be more expensive, but no more leaks! Tom
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Source for houseboat window tracks
by: Bob L.

Hi Bob, I also have a 47 foot and I just found a source for the exact same window tracks that are aluminum. If you are interested let me know. Bob L.
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Houseboat Windows - researching the tracks
by: Bob

I am in the process of researching window tracks for our 47' Kings Craft houseboat. If anyone can help with recommendations or product resources it would be great. Thanks, Bob
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		55' King Craft houseboat project
by: Tom

We are finalizing survey and mechanical inspections on a 55' Kings Craft in St Paul. The houseboat will need to be completely renovated.

Chez, Dick, Olgote, and Anonymous...would appreciate learning from your experiences in your projects (others too). Hopefully we will be able to connect!

Take Care, Tom
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Kings Craft houseboat quality
by: tommy gentle

I was VP of Manufacturing for Kings Craft houseboats, and I can tell you the boats we built were of top quality and can be seen in any of them around today.

The owner was a firm believer in QUALITY and stressed this to all employees. I have a lot of information I will share with anyone (free) if you need any help. my personal email is tgentle@centurytel.net
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Fly Bridge for a Kingscraft
by: gary

Where can I find a fly bridge for a 1977 Kingscraft?

midsouthdig (at) gmail.com
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Isolation Transformer on Houseboats?
by: ron

Do you have a isolation transformer? This will help to keep the pitting of the aluminum hull to a minimum with so much time on shore power.
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Spray foam inside hull of houseboats
by: Lawrence

Hi Chez, by now you've probably gotten the answers you need to your insulating question but just in case, consider Poly-iso-cyanurate.

It is a two part spray foam that is self mixing and if applied properly can help not only insulate but prevent much of the condensation issues from the disparate water / hull temperature.

I feel Charles suggestion to have it applied by a contractor is a good idea as experience often translates to a better and safer job. This product is very similar to a one-part foam found at the retailers mentioned, but you can purchase P.I.C. best through an insulation wholesaler or retailer.

Many companies in the insulation business sell to non-contractors but bump up the price. For the large canisters of Poly-iso I have paid over $600. I have never sprayed a hull before, but have done lots of crawl spaces and knee walls etc.

There is a lot of material in the 600 twin pack, and it comes with sufficient spray tips to do the job. It is awkward since the canisters are both heavy and want to tip over in un-level areas. (Good news: it gets lighter as you use it!)

Finally, a couple of safety things:

--There must be NO open flame aboard or near by when applied.

Keep people and pets off and away until it airs out; usually a few hours with everything open but continue to vent until it dissipates.

A breather; especially a 'supplied air mask' is mandatory and can usually be found in a rental store.

Lastly:

Poly-iso breaks down with the suns U.V. so keep it covered. This may be accomplished using paint (spray on type that won't interact negative with the foam)Best to ask the supplier about types and brands.

Also, modulating the spray can be difficult as it expands when mixed at the spray tip and builds up quickly. It WANTS to build unevenly. Here is where experience comes in because to get an even job and not use more than required, it must be applied systematically with a consistent arm sweep.

It can be trimmed with a knife when cured, but its not easy to clean up a large area. Best to plan on a thin coat and add more if necessary.

And finally:
This is a job that people can do if they are handy and careful. Always check with the supplier about application and verify even the best sounding information through them. (even mine!)

Don't get this material on unwanted surfaces as I am unaware that there is anything to clean it away other than scraping when it dries. It is very sticky so always wear a has-mat suit and gloves to protect your cloths and hands though I have never had an unfavorable reaction when it got on my skin.

Hope this helps and would love feedback on your job should you decide to take it on 'Mr. Phelps'.

Good insulating to you! Lawrence.


Reply - Answer
Wow Lawrence, that was a huge amount of invaluable information on insulating houseboat hulls. I also hope that we get some feedback from anyone who applies it.

IAN from www.all-about-houseboats.com
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Spray Foam Insulation for Houseboats
by: charles

Regarding spray insulation, there are contractors out there specializing in the spray foam insulation. I would recommend this.

The windows are a big problem, with so much glass area. I would talk to a reputable glass company on the options you may have.
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Living in the North
by: Chez

Yes, our plans are to live on it year around. Although when the temperature dropped this January and the wind chill dropped to -27, I must admit we were glad to be snug in our apartment.

We too are planning on supplementing our power source with solar panels. Does anyonte have recommendations on a manufacturer? Thanks, Chez.


Reply - Answer
Well Chez, if you're looking for recommendations on solar panel manufacturers, to get a list of names. I hope this helps.

IAN from www.all-about-houseboats.com
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Kingscraft in Red Wing?
by: Chez

Thanks for your comments. Our Kingscraft is a 55 footer also. The other picture was added by the editor of the site. We are in St. Paul would love to come for a visit to see you in the spring.

Are you wrapped up tight for the winter on land, or are you braving it in the water?

Lets keep in touch, Chez
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Kingscraft
by: Dick O

Hi Chez, great looking boat. I have a 55' Kingscraft and it needs a lot of work. Hull and motors are good.

Olgote Hi, where did you get the window tracks as I need new ones too. I am in Red Wing MN, where the river doesn't freeze.

Dick O
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Kingscraft houseboats and cold weather
by: Anonymous

My understanding wife and I totally re-did a '74 Kingscraft houseboat. We stay on it down to about 15 degrees. Insulation helps. Windows help. Best thing we have found is a good ole fashion electric blanket. We do love our boat !!!
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Kingscraft houseboat upgrades
by: Olgote

Kingscraft is a great houseboat, congratulations on your purchase. We are upgrading our Kingscraft as well! We put standard insulation in ours with new paneling, replaced the window tracks that were damaged and broken, and then put in new Tinted glass, sealing around new tracks when installing and the boat has really gotten airtight and easier to heat, cool. Good luck with your new venture!
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Houseboat insulation
by: Gary

Hi, nice Kingscraft, they were some of the best built houseboats of their day. As far as insulation goes, you can check with Home Depot or Lowes if they are in your area. They also have web sites. Are you planning on living aboard in the winter?
Rating
starstarstar 		Window track for 1971 KingsCraft
by: James R.

Is anyone out there? I'm still looking for good advice on where to get replace window track/channel for my 1971 KingsCraft. It has the white 3-track channel. I have previously called and talked to both Wynne Enterprises and Loxscreen, neither had the tooling/die in their inventory to make the profile. A custom run/batch is out of the question ... $$$.

Wynne Enterprises 256-383-5040
Loxscreen 803-822-8200

Is Bob L. still out there? Was he able to find the 3-track channel in aluminum? If anyone has any suggestions on a replacement track, please reply to this thread - or contact me at KingsCraft.1971.35Ft@gmail.com

Thanks,
James

**********************************************
Source for houseboat window tracks
by: Bob L.

Hi Bob, I also have a 47 foot and I just found a source for the exact same window tracks that are aluminum. If you are interested let me know. Bob L.

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