Wooden Boat Restoration Methods
From documentation to the rebuilding process
- Walt Ansel —AUGUST 19–September 1
Tuition: $1150 two-week class
This advanced large-boat restoration project is inspired by the very successful restoration and rebuild of the Henry Scheel—designed 25′ sloop CINDERELLA that Walt Ansel and a group of energetic students concluded two years ago here at WoodenBoat School. The object of our dreams this time around will be a lovely 24′ fantailed steam launch. Built around 1900, she was rescued from a partially collapsed boathouse at a Michigan lakeside estate in the 1970s. The launch has been carefully stored since then, awaiting restoration. Built with great skill, this museum-worthy vessel is a great representative of the slower, quieter times when getting from point A to point B wasn’t just the matter of turning a key.
The launch is remarkably fair despite her age and iron fastenings. She has retained her sweet sheer and perky upswept counter stern. Life in fresh water has largely preserved her fastenings but has caused rot in the backbone and frames. Her gunwales and coamings show considerable weathering, yet the decking appears to have alternate teak planks. At this point in her life, the launch has been repowered with a Universal gasoline, flathead motor from the 1930s. In the early spring of 2011, WoodenBoat School instructors surveyed the launch in Michigan and formulated a plan of restoration.
Since a lines plan doesn’t exist for the launch, careful documentation in the form of notes, photos, and measurements will have to be completed before any disassembly. Pieces are a great record, and they will be saved for duplication. This first year of restoration will involve extensive structural replacement to the backbone. To do this job accurately and properly, the launch will have to be lofted and the new backbone drawn full size on the floor. The hull will have to be supported by molds during this operation. This is an unusually technical and painstaking process of restoration, defining the “advanced” description of this course. Students will be exposed to careful disassembly, lines taking, lofting, patternmaking, shaping timbers, drilling long holes, and fastening.
The restoration of anything is always a challenge because the sequence is never straightforward as in new construction. These two weeks with Walt Ansel will be invaluable for anyone looking to expand their knowledge and skills in wooden boat repair and restoration.