Classic Australian Wooden Power Boat Association

Good thinking Craig. Brush or roller? You are making good progress, keep at it. (But painting is boring & slow)

Thanks Bob. I'm using a small detailing spray gun. I'm finding it to be less wastefull of paint and next to no overspray.

Intetesting... I'm keen to see that in action. I've got lots to learn about painting and varnishing.

It was good to get the first two planks on today.

Well I'm not sure if it's method in my madness or madness in my method.
Spent today measuring and checking working out my next plan of attack. Looks like I'll start steam bending more ribs now that the keel and garboard planks are sorted. I also added a pic of the tool bits I made for my air chisel of which I used to do the riveting. I don't have the arm and hand strength anymore so it was a big help. The other bonus is I could do it on my own as well as get into places where I couldn't swing a hammer.

I like the way you approach these jobs -dont think there is any madness in it at all just sensible logic. the air chisel solution looks to do a great job. How do you control the aggressiveness of the chisel action? do you run at a lower pressure or just control with the trigger? great work I appreciate the posts and the skill and ingenuity with which you approach the endless challenges of these restorations

Thanks Will. I lower the regulator set air pressure at the compressor to about 50psi. I find it's more technique on the trigger that helps. I do short bursts also.
1. Set the rove first
2. Cut the nail excess leaving about 1mm
3. Peen the end
4. Check the nail hasn't risen out from the plank. Tap down if it has.
5. Using the first bit set the rove again. This will also clean off any excess and also pull the plank down.
6. Final peen with second bit.
6. Finish off peen with small hammer to ensure nail is flattened out.

That is a lot of work/time for one rove! no wonder the job looks so good and the finish is consistent. I look forward to the rest of the restoration posts

Doesn't take long. About 30sec on each.

Started on the 3rd plank today with cutting to shape and setting in the hull. Made an effort on beveling the plank edge but things got a bit tricky with maintaining the flat section between the transom and the deadrise in the keel. Anyway after a keen eye by Ross we ended up chocking up the planks with the original spacers and clamping where required.