We now have the timber we need to replace the beam shelf, sheer plank, some of the hull planks, some of the deck beams and some of the transom. Plenty of work to get stuck into!! We have also acquired a thicknesser to help us machine the timbers to size. This was used initially to fine tune the laminations for the hull frames.
Following a little delay in the timber delivery, Juanpa drove and picked up the Iroko strips, that had been prepared for laminating the new hull frames. Epoxy was bought and we got on with laminating the first new frames to go into the boat by us. We are removing a few frames at a time. Replacing them and then moving on to the next ones. Three are now in, with about another seven to be replaced. Whereas the previous owner had tried repairing the top sections of the frames and scarfing the new onto the old, we are replacing the whole frame from sheer to keel.
We have now assessed and ordered the wood that is required to repair and replace frames, planking, transom and deck beams. While waiting for it's delivery, the windows and portlights have been removed and the varish on the deckhouse stripped. A number of areas on the deckhouse have been inspected and earmarked for repair. Hopefully with a bit of sanding we can bring back the orginal colour, as seen where the window frames have been removed.
To try and stabilise the damaged side of the hull and retain its shape, we have laminated some temporary beams spanning the hole. They are secured through planks that will eventually be renewed. With them in place, they will help to create a former for laminating the new hull frames.
We thought that most of the frames were original. It turns out that
only six frames per side, at the bow, are original steam bent frames.
The other 36 frames per side are all laminated frames.
Original frame on the left and laminated frame on the right.
We have removed the old deck, covering boards and bulwarks. Now it is the time to properly inspect the beams.
All the beams forward of the cabin top are in very good condition. However, the steel breasthooks and the forward end of the deck structure will require some attention.
