OT Factory Filler Questions

[rowboat]

It has been stated numerous times to avoid adding additional filler once the initial filler has dried. I have taken this to mean that I have to apply the 2-3 coats on the same day (what a workout!).
However ...
On looking at the build sheet for my current project,
I see that it was 'Filled' Mar 28 1946, 'Filled Sponsons' Apr 1 1946, and 2nd Filled May14 1946.

So, the Sponsons were added and filled 4 days after the hull, and a mysterious '2nd Fill' was done a MONTH later.
The boat was painted and varnished June 4th.Than

So, just how long can you wait and still add filler? (It would be nice to not do the sponsons on the same day!)
What does OT mean by 2nd Fill?

Thanks again (and again!)

 

[canoenut]

Most ,if not all, Ot build records that I have seen state that they apply filler at different times, up to a month apart. Applying three coats all at once is a daunting task, especially if you are doing this alone and are age challenged. Has any one done this process over a three to four day period and if so were there any problems?

 

[Benson Gray]

This has been a topic of much debate here over the years. Many modern builders insist that it is best to put the second coat of filler on before the first one is fully dry to improve adhesion. The Old Town and Kennebec records clearly show that there were many occasions when the second coat was successfully applied many months after the first coat. Others with more experience may offer a better suggestion. Good luck,

Benson

 

[canoenut]

Did OT use white lead in there older filler formulas? If so, that might have been the reason for the delay between coats.

Lowell

 

[Benson Gray]

Did OT use white lead in there older filler formulas?

Yes, Old Town used white lead in their filler until the 1960s when it was banned and most of the other builders did as well. The filler formulas and composition of the ingredients have been constantly changing over time so what worked well in the past may not be as successful today. Your mileage may vary,

Benson