I decided to reinforce the oarlocks with brass rod due to concerns about a small split in the white oak oarlock on one side. I drilled and installed them on each side of the oarlock socket.
Using a drill press I first drilled a counterbore using a forstner bit then the hole for the rods. I liberally applied beeswax to the rods and installed in the oar lock. Counterbores were filled with wooden plugs to allow later access. I did not over tighten to allow space for seasonal wood expansion and contraction.
After that the oarlocks were cut to size and mounted.
The rudder hardware was installed and the rudder was hung.
First coat of paint was then applied.
My plan is to give it 3 coats of paint. I will paint the interior of the coamings later. I have a quart of dead grass and want to get exterior done to allow for drying prior to launch.
Rick Lathrop
Using a drill press I first drilled a counterbore using a forstner bit then the hole for the rods. I liberally applied beeswax to the rods and installed in the oar lock. Counterbores were filled with wooden plugs to allow later access. I did not over tighten to allow space for seasonal wood expansion and contraction.
After that the oarlocks were cut to size and mounted.
The rudder hardware was installed and the rudder was hung.
First coat of paint was then applied.
My plan is to give it 3 coats of paint. I will paint the interior of the coamings later. I have a quart of dead grass and want to get exterior done to allow for drying prior to launch.
Rick Lathrop
