Monday 10 April 2017

Chestnut Cruiser first build, and first off the form

First build on the form goes at a mad rush, with large periods of inactivity. The purpose is to build a good quality boat, but the priority is to pull it from the form quickly to determine if there are any areas to be changed, where it may not be faithful to the original. It all starts with rib stock and plaking





Ribs in the early Chestnut, like many early boats, had a heavy taper on the top of the ribs. Shown is a table saw sled, set to make 2 lengths of tapers


Taper offcuts


Ribstock, and strongback seen on form



Soak and boil tank, resting on trailer tongue and bars. 


Ribbed, up to the ends. Stems on next








Very early photo of what appears to be an EM White



General planer project awaiting completion


Soak tank is awkward and rolls around, time for some supports


Better!




Ribbed, strong back gone for planking


First plank









Thumbs up as it comers off the form



















Ready for the next one


Big change in sheer and ends from 1950s Chestnut




Cutting 8/4 maple for decks 



Closing in the ends



Time to make a chip chute!


Deck stock



Fitting decks





Stock left to crown the top



Cut out



Thwarts and seats


Deck fit


Thwarts, next is seats and canvas