Classic Australian Wooden Power Boat Association

There is no problem with scarfing planks together as far as strength is concerned.
It has been used for honks in boat building with no problems.

Sargent and Burton used to scarf 1/8" plywood together to make the cold moulded rowing skulls in the mid 1960's. And they were usin resorcinol glues which were the best available before epoxy adhesives became available.

I wouldn't use Vic Ash for a plank that thin. In my opinion it's too stiff and is not likely to twist to the shape required to fit at the stem with out steaming. Which will make it difficult to trial fit the plank. You would need a big steam box to do a 5mtr plank.

I'm sure that I can find you some PM/Meranti here in Melbourne. So you would be after 4 off 2.5x200x19 lengths. Would you like to see what I can find?

Peter

Found Meranti in random lengths, although they don't list the lengths
Sizes
70x19, 90x19, 235x19, 290x19, 185x19, 165x19

They do not list costs either but the stuff is always available. Usually reasonably priced as well
Contact. Tile Importers. 17 Natalia St, Oakleigh South.
03 9562 7181

There is a fomula for scarf joints. I think its one in eight to get a similar strength as the original piece of timber.

I'll check my notes and let you know but that sounds about correct, Dave

Furniture Timbers in Port Melbourne has been a good source of meranti for me... I've seen reasonably long lengths there too. Ph is (03) 9646 2376 or drop in 351 Plummer St, Port Melbourne.

Bob