O T diamond head bolts

[Stu Cartwright]

Many, many thanks to the helpers on this thread. Indeed, the job did go quickly, about 45 minutes to do each seat. Patience is key. C-Clamp method popped those eight bad boys right up a quarter inch, such that the fins were up and out of the gunwhale wood, and could then turn. Nuts a little reluctant to come on and off the bolt ends, but persistence and persuasion helped that happen, too. I never could have done this without all the help above. Thank you.

 

[Ron Bedard]

Hi,
If you back the nut off until it is just covering the last threads, you can give it a knock that will raise the diamond head up off of the gunnel. then remove the nut and use the appropriate size pin-punch to drive it high enough to use some prying force. I usually grab it with padded pliers and twist it out. The threads are actually engaging the wood and whatever varnish has dribbled in there. This method lets the seat and dowels protect the bolt shaft from damage and bending.
Good luck
Ron

 

[Howie]

MGC/Mike: What the heck is a 'Shell Lake'?

 

[MGC]

MGC/Mike: What the heck is a 'Shell Lake'?

We don't see too many of them around here. It's a Wisconsin builder. The ones I've seen are usually in pretty rough shape...and frankly, a bit ugly. That said, I have never seen a really old one or one that has been nicely restored. Maybe they changed over the years. The ones I have seen had a threaded rod under the decks connecting the inside rails. The first time I saw that I thought it was someone's kluge repair...but no... The craftsmanship is a bit clunky as are the lines. Next time I run into one I'll pass your contact information along to the seller.

 

[Dan Lindberg]

Sorry Howie,
I thought you were making a joke.
But yes, Shell Lake is a Wis canoe manufacturer, made in yes, Shell Lake, Wis. Mike's description is pretty close.
They were once thought to be rough versions of Thompsons, but their shape is less "shapely", they remind me of a sausage.
Here in the Midwest they are fairly common, maybe a distant 3rd after OT and T, and often passed over in favor of OT's or T's.

I'd gladly trade you 2 or 3 Shell Lakes for 1 from a Charles River builder.

Dan

MGC/Mike: What the heck is a 'Shell Lake'?

 

[Dave Osborn]

Shell Lake... Often maligned, but really not a bad canoe...