TOPIC: 1961-1963 Glastron V143 JetFlite

Hello Skippers,

I am still seeking any sightings of 1961-1963 Glastron JetFlites. Thus far I am aware of only four confirmed, three 1961 and one 1963. If you want to see what they look like, go to: classicglastron.com and look at the factory images for the various years. In 1964 the hull design was changed so the 1961-1963 are unique in their design. The 1963 was the only year with an aqua/white color scheme and the rear tonneau covers.

Glastron was a relatively new company in this time frame and, as far as I have been able to determine, not many of this model were probably built. I have attempted to find production data without success. I also suspect that not too many have survived.

If you know of anyone who has one or know of one sitting neglected somewhere, I would like to hear from you. My email address is: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

I would also be interested in hearing from anyone who knows any history about these boats.

Kern Fischer
St. Charles, IL

Kern,

There was a POS Glastron that I looked at last year in Webster, MA. I think it might have been an early 143. It was in really rough shape and I wanted nothing to do with it. The guy wanted $300 (or something like that) for it, but given the condition, it should be free. I am probably going to be going by there next week. I'll take a look and see if I can find it. It was in the weeds beside a building. Nice hull shape, though.

There are a fair number of early 60s Glastrons out there, but I haven't seen many of this model. I'm not sure about production records for that era. There is nothing that I am aware of for the 57-59 models (I'm restoring a 59).

I'm sure you are aware that there is a 64 V143 for sale around Atlanta.

Todd,

Thank you for your response. I would definitely be interested in knowing more about that boat. Pictures would also be desirable.

Regarding production numbers, I talked with Bob Hammond, the founder of Glastron and he does not know of any records that would define production in that era. I also talked with John Monahan in Minnesota, who has a bunch of Glastron historical items that he rescued when Larson acquired Glastron. He has not looked at the items in detail but indicated that much of it was publication clippings regarding their racing activities.

I am aware of the 1964 JetFlite in Georgia. Soon after I acquired my 1963, they brought out the 1964 with the AquaLift hull and I was wishing that I had waited because it was a better riding boat in rough water. In retrospect, I am glad that I have the 1963. I believe that it corners better and has a more unique look.

Kern

..K,: I now see you own or had owned a 63 model ..I am sort
of guessing anyone in those 14 ft model V-143's would prefer the 68-69 era style & Split windshield. ?? NOt too long ago a special year 65 Thunder Jet popped up for sale ,listed as a different
year / model. . Will keep a ear out for ya though.
A 63 Still For Sale in OHIO.? www.classicglastron.com/phpbb/viewtopic.php?f=27&t=7992

When I was researching for the article I wrote about Glastron history, I spent several days at Monahan's place in Little Falls. I went thru all his "Glastron" materials. There was nothing in the collection about production numbers, models, etc... It was mostly newspaper clippings and press releases.

The article was published in "Classic Boating" magazine in July/August 2006.

Andreas

Split,
Thank you for posting the listing of the boat for sale in Ohio. I looked at the pictures and it looks like a SkiFlite rather than a JetFlite.

I do own a 1963 JetFlite that is currently in restoration. After reading your note, I looked at pictures of the 1968 JetFlite on the Classic Glastron site. They are indeed good looking boats and have the Aqua Lift hull design, which should provide a better ride than my flat bottom.

I have not had an opportunity to drive or ride in an Aqua Lift design. I believe that it would tend to bank into a corner, whereas my flat bottom corners flat with high g cornering forces. When I bought the 1963, I bought it on style alone. I was pleased to find that the performance matched the looks.

I am probably prejudiced, but I still like the styling of the 1963 JetFlite with the tonneau covers over the rear area. They are totally unique and make the boat into a virtual two seat sports car type boat. Removal of the covers allows carrying extra passengers, water skis, etc.

Kern

I have a 1970 I'm restoring

Cool jetflite! I like the smoke colored windsheilds

..KERN,: A recent listing here just south of Chattanooga, ORIG & Merc 50 423 - 240 - 1488 chattanooga.craigslist.org/boa/3772729726.html

K,,,: Bill L spotted a 64 Jetflite center console in North Georgia .
Should be neg at the salvage yard. Windshield.
atlanta.craigslist.org/nat/bod/3777803073.html

Kern,

WELCOME ABOARD.

yours, satx

I am redoing this rare 1963 Glastron Jetflite which I got from my grandfather and grandmother. It is in very bad shape but it is a rare boat and my grandfather was redoing it for some time now and wanted this boat finished so I will finish the project for him.