Cargo Hatch

The new forward section of cargo hatch coaming has now been fitted and primed ready for a coat of paint. The drop in fore and aft beams and hatch boards were then temporarily fitted. This proved that the beam shoe-cleats have been correctly positioned.

Meanwhile, on the slipway, behind the boat shed, the Nancy Belle has turned blue with the cold.

Bulwarks

One of Shamrock's little problems is that when tying up, the mooring ropes are a tight fit between the deck and the bulwarks, especially if the rope is dry.

As the lower bulwark planks have already been removed and are to be renewed, the new planks are being reduced in width by one inch (2.5cm). This should overcome the problem.

These planks have been cut and are now being shaped ready for fitting. Nice work John.

Note

The planks were originally removed to ease access to the outer deck planks. It has also had the positive effect of greater ventilation when the winter covers are fitted.

Forward Deck

The caulking and sealing of the forward deck planks has now been completed. Rumour has it that it will now be posible to sit in the forward cabin when it is raining and not get wet!

Shaune and John are now working on getting a section of the after deck ready for the refitting of the bilge pump.

Meanwhile in the Boat Shed the removed center sections of bulwarks are being patched up and painted ready for refitting.

Deck Repair

Despite all the cold and wet weather the forward deck seams have been cleaned out. Not an easy job! These are now in the process of being re caulked, with oakum, and then sealed with stockholm tar.

Hot Tip.

To enable the tar to be payed evenly into the seams, without solidifying on the ladle, the ladle needs to be kept hotter than the molten tar. Also it makes the job a bit warmer on a cold day.