I,  Michael Sykes,  am starting to restore ‘Merganser’ DB136 built in 1952 clinker built mahogany on oak

I would appreciate any technical information and advice to help the project and make sure I buy timber and other materials of the right specification.

My preliminary assessment of work needed is:
a) replacing the deck, some deck beams, splashboards, king plank, breast hook, samson post, rubbing strakes, and possibly the stem:
b) caulking the keel/garboard, and
c) replacing much of the rigging.
d) the starboard centreboard casing about one inch all round the pin on which the centreboard pivots looks a bit dodgy, but I am reluctant to attempt to remove the pin as the fixings at each end are corroded solid lumps.

I am hoping to borrow a set of original plans from YWDBA, but also expect to make some replacement parts by exactly copying the original.

Do the original plans include the preferable types of timber?

I remember using a caulking material called “Seamflex” which has now hardened or fallen out (not entirely surprising after 58 years). I have found marinestore.co.uk who can supply red lead powder (also found various recipes for red lead putty which may serve the purpose) Has anyone found pro’s and cons of this or know of another suitable product available nowadays?

I recently had a most useful discussion with a Poole boatbuilder who kindly gave me much helpful advice including warning not to rush to fill cracks, but rather clean them thoroughly then let the hull soak for a month and see how the ‘lands’ close up as the timber expands.

I am encouraged by the interest and enthusiasm evident from the YWDBA website generally, and I would be very thankful for any comments from YW Dayboat owners or others who may be able to advise

Michael Sykes

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This category is expressly for questions, hints and tips around the process of restoring wooden hulls and spars.

To place your question, comment, tip, etc click on the Comments word above

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Slightly difficult to read scanned version  of the

1949 Yachting World article which launched the DB is here

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Here is an article describing how it should be done in the early 1950s when the cost of materials and fitting was well under £100 and the sails would have cost you under £20 (source YW DB launch article 1949)

Click here to see the instructions

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I am starting this topic because I am a wooden boat enthusiast and I am aware of a number of wooden boats that are or have been refurbished or even built and I thought it would be good to have a place to share ideas and experiences.

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Tim Parkinson

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