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William
Manticos' 1974 Hydrostream Viper
Classic Hydrostreams are a dying breed, but they are still to be found.
Most early Hydrostreams have been retired long ago for many reasons -
accidents, rot, wear, and mainly, age.
This featured 1974 Hydrostream Viper is in unrestored condition. When I say
unrestored, I mean it. Everything is original, including the the
complete motor! The interior is just as it was twenty-five years ago, as is
the Mercury 115 horsepower six cylinder engine. Even the lower unit is
original, and it is joined with its original Mercury two-blade bronze
propeller. This boat has seen use throughout its life as well, running
around in the salt waters of Long Island.
 William
Manticos of Long Island, New York purchased this boat in 1974 as one of
three hulls that Ted Bravo of Muscle Boats in Copiague, New York introduced
to Long Island that year. This is the second Hydrostream to be registered
in Long Island, and it is still owned by Mr. Manticos. Shortly after,
a good friend of Mantocos purchased a green metalflake Vector model with the
same 115 horsepower Mercury. Interestingly, at the time he purchased
his Viper, Manticos was advised against powering the boat with the 115 hp
engine due to the dangers of so much power on a small hull. How times
have changed. Ironically, power trim was not considered an important
option back when the boat was purchased. The Hydrostream back-to-back
seats are original, and in excellent condition. You'll also notice the
original engine flushing attachment that was purchased with the engine.
During its first year of service, the dashboard cracked severely,
necessitating the installation of a thick aluminum dashboard plate as a
support. Later that year Hydrostream issued a warning to dealers stating
that drilling in the middle of the dashboard for an instrument will weaken
it to the point of failure. Too bad this warning was not soon enough.
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Original Installed 1974
Mercury 115 Horsepower Engine
Click on images for larger view |
This Hydrostream does not have flotation, nor does it have the traditional
hooked pad that later models acquired. You will also notice the unfamiliar
early design of the transom well and the shallower "fin chines" that were
characteristic of very early Hydrostreams. Some people may say it's a
shame that this boat isn't sitting in a garage somewhere, but to the owner,
that's just fine. He bought this boat to use it - and that's just what
he does with it.
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