For Sale: 1940 Custom Vehicle in Roanoke, Texas

Boyce & Sons was a boat manufacturer based in the San Diego area that produced a run of four 16' "PODH' (Pacific One Design Hydroplane) stepped hull race boats in 1940. This example, the only known surviving boat of the four according to the seller, was acquired from a previous owner, who had acquired the boat in around 1950 after watching it race throughout the decade prior. In 2022, the boat was refreshed and put back into use and went on to win Best in Class and the Mayor's Choice Award at the Keels & Wheels Concours D'Elegance in Seabrook, Texas. It comes equipped with a 1936 Ford Flathead V8 engine featuring a rare set of 1936 Federal Mogul Thermo-Flow cylinder heads. Accompanied by a collection of period newspaper articles mentioning the boat and its builders, this Southern California race boat is now being offered for auction by its seller out of Oklahoma.

The vessel measures 16' long and was custom-built 2' longer than the conventional PODH boats raced in the 1940s. Its nonsoak bottom hull is finished in silver with "A-29" scripts and its deck is constructed of finished wood. Details include dual windscreens, bow and stern flagpole holders, and polished hardware including cleats, deck eyes, engine compartment hinges, the fuel filler cap, and more. A collection of detailed images can be found in the gallery. The seller notes that the sale will include a trailer as well as a display cart reminiscent of period manufacturer boat show displays.

The cockpit features a full-width bench seat upholstered in red leather, an ivory-colored four-spoke steering wheel, a forward/reverse floor shifter, and a suite of centrally mounted instrumentation. The seller confirms that all gauges, electronics, and accessories remain functional.

Power comes from a Ford Flathead V8 engine equipped with a rare set of two-piece 1936 Federal Mogul Thermo-Flow bronze and aluminum cylinder heads. The seller notes that the engine is believed to be original to the boat and confirms that there are no outstanding issues to note at this time. A video has been provided by the seller showing the boat starting and operating.

This sale will include a display cart and a trailer.

Can be seen on hotrodcollection.com