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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The photos of this week at Rock over Spring Bank Holiday  have been re-organised and are now in two albums: -

Points Races 2 , 3 and 5

Ladies & Cadets together with a general selection

Click on one of the above as required.

Where there is no attribution the photo was taken by Martin Hough and his daughter

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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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