Belmont Registry Directory

How do tell if it's a Belmont? All Belmont runabouts from 1956-1964 had mahogany frames with 3/8"marine plywood covering. Then were finished with a 3 oz fiberglass which allowed the woodgrain to be exposed. From 1956-58 when runabouts started production they measured 16 feet and had a pretty tall hull from the waterline up to the gunwale. They also had a removable engine covers that had a pair arched handles and carburetor(s) sitting above the cover sometimes showing off a chrome scoop. When the Shark appeared on the scene in early 1958 the bow was lengthened to give the runabouts a length of 19-6 slightly dipping and flatter overall. The width of the boat was increased and gunwale was lowered. Engine cover usually had one pivot point although some were converted to clamshell to reduce the weight. In about 1964 the second seating area was removed and engine compartment was opened up to provide easy ski access. The barrel back design was scraped for a more tranditional design but made a reappearance in 1967. In 1965 Belmont moved to all fiberglass layup. Early Belmonts had Cadillac power with one, two, and three carb setups. Ford, Chrysler, and big block Chevrolet were all used. Hildebrand, Glenwood, and Nicson were common parts suppliers although Belmont did have some parts made for them as did many manufactures in the Fresno, CA area. Helms were usually on the left side, had 4 air scoops, Stewart Warner gauges, Casale V-Drives, exhaust above the waterline, and cavitation plate. Prices have ranged from $500 parts boat, $3000 barn find, $35,000 all original runner, to the Shark(s) who's value could be very high. There are between 5-7 being restored at this time, a couple tucked away in peoples shops and there are an estimated 45-66 runabouts made by Smitty Weeks between 1956-1966 before jet boats were exclusively built until 1985. Belmont Production 25 known built, estimated from 1956-66 to be 65 produced. 1956 - 4, 1957 - 1, 1958 - 6 (1 race boat), 1959 - 7, 1960 - 2, 1961 - 0, 1962 - 2, 1963 - 1, 1964 - 1, 1965 - 2, 1966 - 1. Are there many others out there? 15 are still on the water, kinda.

To be added to this page send a picture and details of your Belmont to Alan Wardsworth • alanwardsworth@gmail.com