Phoenix Update

[Chris Merriam]

Well after plugging away at ripping the fiberglass off my 1954 34' Paul Luke Yawl, I have most all of it off. I am now debating on whether I should try to get the epoxy out of the seams below the water line. Some say yes, some say I have good adheasion and to leave it alone. I am actually thinking of cold moulding but of course finances play a big factor. There are some rotted spots and I took some wood off when I was stripping the fiberglass. At what point should I replace planks?? Or are there good fillers available that will surfice?? I have a few frames that need work. The previous owner laminated some in the stern when he fixed the area where she had a fire, (he then renamed her "Phoenix", previous name was "Blue Mist"), That looks like the way to go or maybe some "sisters". I really have no clue what I am doing, just kind of learning as I go. So any advice or direction would sure be appreciated.

[gonzo]

Why did you take the fiberglass off?

[PAR]

If I remember from his previous posts, he had some delaminating issues and concerns about the sheathing being more of a cause then a cure.

If you resheath or mold over the planking, the well attached stuff in the seams can stay (epoxy only, poly should come out). If it will not get a new sheathing then it needs to come off or the swelling wood will spit it out pretty quick, if not crush the seams.

Have you had any luck trying to find Paul Luke owners and/or design/construction info?

[Chris Merriam]

Yea, I'm the guy who was trying to figure out the best way to get fiberglass off. When I bought the boat there was a couple spots where the fiberglass was parting. When I started pulling it back I found wet wood. The planks have since dried out well and should be fine except for some rotted spots. The big decision now, I guess, is to mould or not to mould. I have been searching the web of how to go about it and what the cost would be, so any info. on cold moulding would be great. I would love to know if there are any other Paul Luke owners out there. I have talked with Frank Luke and he has given me some good advice. I should spend the money and have her surveyed. PAR want to stop by and go over her??

[PAR]

I haven't been in Maine for a number of years, though this time of year is quite nice (the end of your 30 day summer) I may have business in Friendship in the coming months, if you'd drop me an email we might be able to work out something.

I'd only mold her if it's necessary, it's a lot of work and materials.

Try the Wooden Boat Registry and do a search for the designer, see how many hits you get.

[Chris Merriam]

Sounds great. Thanks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!