Arena Craft - Revision history

HandyAndy: added 1958 ad

2021-06-25T14:36:12Z

added 1958 ad

HandyAndy: added 1956 ad

2014-01-05T19:26:46Z

added 1956 ad

HandyAndy: added lawsuit info

2012-11-12T18:32:08Z

added lawsuit info

HandyAndy: fixed links to Stewart Warner, ARA and Buehler

2012-11-12T17:47:57Z

fixed links to Stewart Warner, ARA and Buehler

HandyAndy: added model info and fixed boats in use link, added link to Dan Arena racing history and Reinell link

2012-11-12T17:46:11Z

added model info and fixed boats in use link, added link to Dan Arena racing history and Reinell link

HandyAndy: fixed typo

2010-09-21T05:16:37Z

fixed typo

HandyAndy: added '66 ad

2010-09-21T05:16:05Z

added '66 ad

HandyAndy: added categories, boats in use link

2010-07-13T21:02:17Z

added categories, boats in use link

Webmaster at 20:55, 20 January 2010

2010-01-20T20:55:20Z

Webmaster at 18:22, 12 December 2009

2009-12-12T18:22:40Z

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 <gallery>
 File:arenacraft57b001.jpg | 1957 Barracuda Ad
 </gallery>

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 File:Arenaturbocraftbb001.jpg|1961 Arena Craft Turbocraft Jet drive models
 File:Arenacraftbb002.jpg|1961 Arena Craft outboard boat models
 </gallery>
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 '''Some available brochures & literature are below'''
 <gallery>
 File:barracuda001.jpg | Page 1
 File:barracuda002.jpg | Page 2
 File:barracuda003.jpg | Page 3
 </gallery>
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 [[Category:Michigan]]
 [[Category:Fiberglass]]

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:32, 12 November 2012
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	Dan Arena's racing history can be found at the [http://thunderboats.ning.com/profiles/blogs/the-dan-arena-story Hydroplane and Raceboat Museum].		Dan Arena's racing history can be found at the [http://thunderboats.ning.com/profiles/blogs/the-dan-arena-story Hydroplane and Raceboat Museum].
		+
		+
		+	On [http://www.leagle.com/xmlResult.aspx?page=1&xmldoc=1957635152FSupp483_1520.xml&docbase=CSLWAR1-1950-1985&SizeDisp=7 June 28, 1957] a legal case was filed against Garzell Plastics Industries, Inc., Arena Craft Corp., and Dan Arena for wrongful death because of a drowning that occurred when a boat manufactured by Garzell and sold by Arena Craft agents broke and foundered in the Potomac River.

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-In 1961, Arena Craft, Inc. was found listed as a subsidiary of Inboard Boat Co. along with [[A.R.A.|A.R.A. Manufacturing Co.]]. The address for Arena Craft, Inc. was 350 Carlson Blvd., Richmond, California (see 1961 model information below). In this year Arena Craft offered several models with the [[Buehler|Buehler Turbocraft]] jet drive unit.
+In 1961, Arena Craft, Inc. was found listed as a subsidiary of Inboard Boat Co. along with [[A. R. A.|A.R.A. Manufacturing Co.]]. The address for Arena Craft, Inc. was 350 Carlson Blvd., Richmond, California (see 1961 model information below). In this year Arena Craft offered several models with the [[Buehler Turbocraft]] jet drive unit.
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-My research begins with a point of clarification and with the Roberts & Olthouse distributor.  In 1957 Arena Craft changed the hull design of the original Barracuda Sportster and called the newly designed model a “Barracuda.”  Thus, there are actually two different kinds of Barracuda boats.  The original 1956 model goes by the name of “Barracuda Sportster” and the newer 1957 model goes by the simple name “Barracuda.”  From my detective work, I was able to deduce that Roberts & Olthouse sold approximately fifty Barracudas and Barracuda Sportsters from their Michigan distributorship in the years from 1956-1959.  My findings, unfortunately, end here.  My research into the history and statistical background of the two Barracuda models continues!  Thankfully, there are many differences that can be seen between the Barracuda Sportster and the Barracuda.  First, there is a difference in the hull design.  The Barracuda Sportster has a small v-shaped and flat bottom.  This flat bottom design made the Sportster difficult to turn.  In addition, the Sportster also had a reputation for breaking off rudders!  The Barracuda model, on the other hand, has a slightly longer v-shape with rounded chines that are inset toward the rear.  It ends with a 2’ flat bottom.  Thus, the Barracuda model could have been built to correct the difficulties that came with the flat bottom design of the Sportster.  There is an appreciable difference in the hardware that was used for the Sportster and Barracuda.  The windshield on the Sportster is believed to be a 1953-1955 Corvette windshield.  Barracuda windshield, however, is believed to be a 1956 Corvette windshield.  In addition, it is thought that the 1956 Sportster had a 1955 Plymouth car steering wheel; the 1957 Barracuda‘s steering wheel, on the other hand, is probably a 1956 Plymouth car steering wheel.  Fourth, the 1956 Sportster had a solid brass Chris Craft bow light.  The 1957 Barracuda, in contrast, had an [[Attwood]] 9001 pot-metal bow light.  Thus the differing hull designs, the differing windshields, the differing steering wheels and the differing bow lights all comprise the observable differences that exist between the Sportster and the Barracuda.  Many similarities also exist between the Sportster and the Barracuda models.  First, the two models were manufactured with the same dimensions (length, width, etc.).  Next, the engines in both  models are 312 Ford Interceptors.  This engine is a 215 horsepower engine with YH Carter horizontal carburetors.  It propelled both models at approximate top speed of 45-50 mph.  Thus, these two boats were among the fastest in the world for their time period.  Third, the gauges in both models were black-faced [[Stewart Warner]] gauges.  The gauge panel was constructed in solid brass in both models.  The following hardware accessories were constructed in solid brass for both models:  the rub rails (also chrome plated in both models), the name plate that is to the immediate right of the gage panel and the outside dual exhaust ports (they also read “Barracuda” in large letters for both models).  Each model has a large chrome piece on the bow that is a 1956 Dodge hood ornament.  Sixth, the 1956 Sportster came in the following four color combinations:  red and white, aqua and white, green and white and pink and white.  The 1957 Barracuda probably came in the same color combinations.  However, only the aqua and white color combination can be verified at this time in accordance with my findings.  Thus, you can observe that there are many similarities that exist between the Sportster and the Barracuda.  In conclusion, this article is the collected effort of all my research.  It can be updated as new information is forthcoming.  Any new information would be greatly appreciated!
+My research begins with a point of clarification and with the Roberts & Olthouse distributor.  In 1957 Arena Craft changed the hull design of the original Barracuda Sportster and called the newly designed model a “Barracuda.”  Thus, there are actually two different kinds of Barracuda boats.  The original 1956 model goes by the name of “Barracuda Sportster” and the newer 1957 model goes by the simple name “Barracuda.”  From my detective work, I was able to deduce that Roberts & Olthouse sold approximately fifty Barracudas and Barracuda Sportsters from their Michigan distributorship in the years from 1956-1959.  My findings, unfortunately, end here.  My research into the history and statistical background of the two Barracuda models continues!  Thankfully, there are many differences that can be seen between the Barracuda Sportster and the Barracuda.  First, there is a difference in the hull design.  The Barracuda Sportster has a small v-shaped and flat bottom.  This flat bottom design made the Sportster difficult to turn.  In addition, the Sportster also had a reputation for breaking off rudders!  The Barracuda model, on the other hand, has a slightly longer v-shape with rounded chines that are inset toward the rear.  It ends with a 2’ flat bottom.  Thus, the Barracuda model could have been built to correct the difficulties that came with the flat bottom design of the Sportster.  There is an appreciable difference in the hardware that was used for the Sportster and Barracuda.  The windshield on the Sportster is believed to be a 1953-1955 Corvette windshield.  Barracuda windshield, however, is believed to be a 1956 Corvette windshield.  In addition, it is thought that the 1956 Sportster had a 1955 Plymouth car steering wheel; the 1957 Barracuda‘s steering wheel, on the other hand, is probably a 1956 Plymouth car steering wheel.  Fourth, the 1956 Sportster had a solid brass Chris Craft bow light.  The 1957 Barracuda, in contrast, had an [[Attwood]] 9001 pot-metal bow light.  Thus the differing hull designs, the differing windshields, the differing steering wheels and the differing bow lights all comprise the observable differences that exist between the Sportster and the Barracuda.  Many similarities also exist between the Sportster and the Barracuda models.  First, the two models were manufactured with the same dimensions (length, width, etc.).  Next, the engines in both  models are 312 Ford Interceptors.  This engine is a 215 horsepower engine with YH Carter horizontal carburetors.  It propelled both models at approximate top speed of 45-50 mph.  Thus, these two boats were among the fastest in the world for their time period.  Third, the gauges in both models were black-faced [[Stewart-Warner]] gauges.  The gauge panel was constructed in solid brass in both models.  The following hardware accessories were constructed in solid brass for both models:  the rub rails (also chrome plated in both models), the name plate that is to the immediate right of the gage panel and the outside dual exhaust ports (they also read “Barracuda” in large letters for both models).  Each model has a large chrome piece on the bow that is a 1956 Dodge hood ornament.  Sixth, the 1956 Sportster came in the following four color combinations:  red and white, aqua and white, green and white and pink and white.  The 1957 Barracuda probably came in the same color combinations.  However, only the aqua and white color combination can be verified at this time in accordance with my findings.  Thus, you can observe that there are many similarities that exist between the Sportster and the Barracuda.  In conclusion, this article is the collected effort of all my research.  It can be updated as new information is forthcoming.  Any new information would be greatly appreciated!
 Please contact Don Baker at:

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 [[File:Arenacraftlogo.jpg]]
 Dan Arena Company
 Arena Craft Corporation
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 Formed by the famous speedboat racer of the same name, the Dan Arena Company built boats in Mt. Clemens, Macomb County, beginning about 1953. The company was located at 32020 N. River Road. Daniel J. Arena incorporated the firm in 1955 as Arena Craft Corporation.
 In late 1955 the company introduced the Barracuda, offered in three models. The single cockpit, three-passenger Sportster, the double-cockpit, six-passenger runabout, and the open, six-passenger utility were all 19 ft. 6 inches long, had a beam of 6 ft. 9 inches, and a draft of 20 inches. The models differed in finish and in the styling of the after decks. The hull was constructed of laminated, pressure-molded, polyester bonded Fiberglas, with a reinforced double bottom designed to give maximum rigidity, strength and flotation characteristics. The boat was powered by a 175 h.p. Dearborn Interceptor engine and speeds of up to 50 m.p.h. were reported by the company.
@@ Line 19: / Line 22: @@
 Boats, November 1955, p. 4.
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-My research begins with a point of clarification and with the Roberts & Olthouse distributor.  In 1957 Arena Craft changed the hull design of the original Barracuda Sportster and called the newly designed model a “Barracuda.”  Thus, there are actually two different kinds of Barracuda boats.  The original 1956 model goes by the name of “Barracuda Sportster” and the newer 1957 model goes by the simple name “Barracuda.”  From my detective work, I was able to deduce that Roberts & Olthouse sold approximately fifty Barracudas and Barracuda Sportsters from their Michigan distributorship in the years from 1956-1959.  My findings, unfortunately, end here.  My research into the history and statistical background of the two Barracuda models continues!  Thankfully, there are many differences that can be seen between the Barracuda Sportster and the Barracuda.  First, there is a difference in the hull design.  The Barracuda Sportster has a small v-sahped and flat bottom.  This flat bottom design made the Sportster difficult to turn.  In addition, the Sportster also had a reputation for breaking off rudders!  The Barracuda model, on the other hand, has a slightly longer v-shape with rounded chines that are inset toward the rear.  It ends with a 2’ flat bottom.  Thus, the Barracuda model could have been built to correct the difficulties that came with the flat bottom design of the Sportster.  There is an appreciable difference in the hardware that was used for the Sportster and Barracuda.  The windshield on the Sportster is believed to be a 1953-1955 Corvette windshield.  Barracuda windshield, however, is believed to be a 1956 Corvette windshield.  In addition, it is thought that the 1956 Sportster had a 1955 Plymouth car steering wheel; the 1957 Barracuda ‘s steering wheel, on the other hand, is probably a 1956 Plymouth car steering wheel.  Fourth, the 1956 Sportster had a solid brass Chris Craft bow light.  The 1957 Barracuda, in contrast, had an Atwood 9001 pot-metal bow light.  Thus the differing hull designs, the differing windshields, the differing steering wheels and the differing bow lights all comprise the observable differences that exist between the Sportster and the Barracuda.  Many similarities also exist between the Sportster and the Barracuda models.  First, the two models were manufactured with the same dimensions (length, width, etc.).  Next, the engines in both  models are 312 Ford Interceptors.  This engine is a 215 horsepower engine with YH Carter horizontal carburetors.  It propelled both models at approximate top speed of 45-50 mph.  Thus, these two boats were among the fastest in the world for their time period.  Third, the gages in both models were black-faced Stewart Warner gages.  The gage panel was constructed in solid brass in both models.  The following hardware accessories were constructed in solid brass for both models:  the rub rails (also chrome plated in both models), the name plate that is to the immediate right of the gage panel and the outside dual exhaust ports (they also read “Barracuda” in large letters for both models).  Each model has a large chrome piece on the bow that is a 1956 Dodge hood ornament.  Sixth, the 1956 Sportster came in the following four color combinations:  red and white, aqua and white, green and white and pink and white.  The 1957 Barracuda probably came in the same color combinations.  However, only the aqua and white color combination can be verified at this time in accordance with my findings.  Thus, you can observe that there are many similarities that exist between the Sportster and the Barracuda.  In conclusion, this article is the collected effort of all my research.  It can be updated as new information is forthcoming.  Any new information would be greatly appreciated!
+My research begins with a point of clarification and with the Roberts & Olthouse distributor.  In 1957 Arena Craft changed the hull design of the original Barracuda Sportster and called the newly designed model a “Barracuda.”  Thus, there are actually two different kinds of Barracuda boats.  The original 1956 model goes by the name of “Barracuda Sportster” and the newer 1957 model goes by the simple name “Barracuda.”  From my detective work, I was able to deduce that Roberts & Olthouse sold approximately fifty Barracudas and Barracuda Sportsters from their Michigan distributorship in the years from 1956-1959.  My findings, unfortunately, end here.  My research into the history and statistical background of the two Barracuda models continues!  Thankfully, there are many differences that can be seen between the Barracuda Sportster and the Barracuda.  First, there is a difference in the hull design.  The Barracuda Sportster has a small v-shaped and flat bottom.  This flat bottom design made the Sportster difficult to turn.  In addition, the Sportster also had a reputation for breaking off rudders!  The Barracuda model, on the other hand, has a slightly longer v-shape with rounded chines that are inset toward the rear.  It ends with a 2’ flat bottom.  Thus, the Barracuda model could have been built to correct the difficulties that came with the flat bottom design of the Sportster.  There is an appreciable difference in the hardware that was used for the Sportster and Barracuda.  The windshield on the Sportster is believed to be a 1953-1955 Corvette windshield.  Barracuda windshield, however, is believed to be a 1956 Corvette windshield.  In addition, it is thought that the 1956 Sportster had a 1955 Plymouth car steering wheel; the 1957 Barracuda‘s steering wheel, on the other hand, is probably a 1956 Plymouth car steering wheel.  Fourth, the 1956 Sportster had a solid brass Chris Craft bow light.  The 1957 Barracuda, in contrast, had an [[Attwood]] 9001 pot-metal bow light.  Thus the differing hull designs, the differing windshields, the differing steering wheels and the differing bow lights all comprise the observable differences that exist between the Sportster and the Barracuda.  Many similarities also exist between the Sportster and the Barracuda models.  First, the two models were manufactured with the same dimensions (length, width, etc.).  Next, the engines in both  models are 312 Ford Interceptors.  This engine is a 215 horsepower engine with YH Carter horizontal carburetors.  It propelled both models at approximate top speed of 45-50 mph.  Thus, these two boats were among the fastest in the world for their time period.  Third, the gauges in both models were black-faced [[Stewart Warner]] gauges.  The gauge panel was constructed in solid brass in both models.  The following hardware accessories were constructed in solid brass for both models:  the rub rails (also chrome plated in both models), the name plate that is to the immediate right of the gage panel and the outside dual exhaust ports (they also read “Barracuda” in large letters for both models).  Each model has a large chrome piece on the bow that is a 1956 Dodge hood ornament.  Sixth, the 1956 Sportster came in the following four color combinations:  red and white, aqua and white, green and white and pink and white.  The 1957 Barracuda probably came in the same color combinations.  However, only the aqua and white color combination can be verified at this time in accordance with my findings.  Thus, you can observe that there are many similarities that exist between the Sportster and the Barracuda.  In conclusion, this article is the collected effort of all my research.  It can be updated as new information is forthcoming.  Any new information would be greatly appreciated!
 Please contact Don Baker at:
@@ Line 54: / Line 75: @@
-[http://www.fiberglassics.com/site-search-3?ordering=newest&searchword=Arena+Craft Arena Craft Boats in Use]
+[http://www.fiberglassics.com/index.php?searchword=Arenacraft&ordering=newest&searchphrase=all&Itemid=88&option=com_search Arena Craft Boats in Use]

@@ Line 7: / Line 7: @@
 Formed by the famous speedboat racer of the same name, the Dan Arena Company built boats in Mt. Clemens, Macomb County, beginning about 1953. The company was located at 32020 N. River Road. Daniel J. Arena incorporated the firm in 1955 as Arena Craft Corporation.
-In late 1955 the company introduced the Barracuda, offered in three models. The single cockpit, three-passenger sportster, the double cockpit-, six-passenger runabout, and the open, six-passenger utility were all 19 ft. 6 inches long, had a beam of 6 ft. 9 inches, and a draft of 20 inches. The models differed in finish and in the styling of the after decks. The hull was constructed of laminated, pressure-molded, polyester bonded Fibreglas, with a reinforced double bottom Adesigned to give maximum rigidity, strength and floatation characteristics.@ The boat was powered by a 175 h.p. Dearborn Interceptor engine, and speeds of up to 50 m.p.h. were reported by the company.
+In late 1955 the company introduced the Barracuda, offered in three models. The single cockpit, three-passenger Sportster, the double-cockpit, six-passenger runabout, and the open, six-passenger utility were all 19 ft. 6 inches long, had a beam of 6 ft. 9 inches, and a draft of 20 inches. The models differed in finish and in the styling of the after decks. The hull was constructed of laminated, pressure-molded, polyester bonded Fiberglas, with a reinforced double bottom designed to give maximum rigidity, strength and flotation characteristics. The boat was powered by a 175 h.p. Dearborn Interceptor engine and speeds of up to 50 m.p.h. were reported by the company.
 Sources:
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 Some available brochures & literature are below
 <gallery>
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 [[Main_Page|Back to Main Page]]

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:22, 12 December 2009
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	</gallery>		</gallery>

−	[~~http://www.fiberglassics.com/wiki/index.php?title=~~Main_Page Back to ~~the main page~~]	+	[[Main_Page\|Back to Main Page]]