1934 OT Yankee Restoration
I am beginning a restoration on my '34 Yankee AA Grade. I thought I could use this thread to both document with photos and steps taken as well as request advice (feel free to offer advice even if no request is made as my ignorance may negate my ability to ask a question).
I purchased this canoe from the son of the original owner in Le Marque, TX. It had its original canvas painted in OT design #16 as well as the name "Fanny Dunker" painted on the R and L bow. It also has its original floor rack which has been painted white and is in a sad but reparable state. The owner also gave me some paddles he and his brother used as boys at the time of purchase.
Due to its life near the ocean, there is a significant amount of dezincification (SP) but despite that, the wood remains in very good condition overall. The gunwales have freckling on the outsides, but the top edge looks great. There are no cracked ribs and the decks are intact with only one rather unsightly hole through the bow deck where a large eyehook was attatched.
Currently, I have removed the canvas. A good bit of Texas beach sand was still between the canvas and the planks. The stem bands were removed easily. I have also begun stripping the interior which is coming along nicely, if somewhat more slowly than I would wish.
I believe my next step once the canoe is stripped would be to soak the wood in boiled linseed oil to restore the flex to the wood and let it sit for a few weeks.
I look forward to sharing this restoration with all of you and to any discussions that ensue.
Adam
I am beginning a restoration on my '34 Yankee AA Grade. I thought I could use this thread to both document with photos and steps taken as well as request advice (feel free to offer advice even if no request is made as my ignorance may negate my ability to ask a question).
I purchased this canoe from the son of the original owner in Le Marque, TX. It had its original canvas painted in OT design #16 as well as the name "Fanny Dunker" painted on the R and L bow. It also has its original floor rack which has been painted white and is in a sad but reparable state. The owner also gave me some paddles he and his brother used as boys at the time of purchase.
Due to its life near the ocean, there is a significant amount of dezincification (SP) but despite that, the wood remains in very good condition overall. The gunwales have freckling on the outsides, but the top edge looks great. There are no cracked ribs and the decks are intact with only one rather unsightly hole through the bow deck where a large eyehook was attatched.
Currently, I have removed the canvas. A good bit of Texas beach sand was still between the canvas and the planks. The stem bands were removed easily. I have also begun stripping the interior which is coming along nicely, if somewhat more slowly than I would wish.
I believe my next step once the canoe is stripped would be to soak the wood in boiled linseed oil to restore the flex to the wood and let it sit for a few weeks.
I look forward to sharing this restoration with all of you and to any discussions that ensue.
Adam
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