Outer Gunwale Fasteners 1940 OTCA CS

[davavd]

It won't be long before it's time to put the new outer gunwales on. I'd like to be historically correct, if possible.
1. What size screws were used?
2. Do the screw heads go on the inside or the outside, once clear of the decks?
3. Is the screw head flush or countersunk and plugged?

.

 

[Dave Osborn]

I use #8 x 1-1/2” brass slotted flat head wood screws, typically.
They are screwed in from the outer gunwale into the inner gunwale.
The screw holes are countersunk and flush with the outwales.

 

[davavd]

Thank you very much. Now I have more questions.
1. What is the correct cross-section for the outer gunwale (I'm starting with "canoe gunnels" , so they already have that little nub that laps over the top of the planking) - 1/2 round or rectangle with radiused corners?
2. If radiused corners, what radius?
3. What is the correct screw spacing? Surely not every rib, every other, or maybe even every third rib seems like enough.

 

[Benson Gray]

The thread at the link below may help. It has some good pictures.

Benson

B

Thread 'Suggestions For Bending New Gunnels On Old Town Near The Ends.'

Jul 28, 2018

I am installing new spruce gunnels on a 1925 HW Old Town. I know the original gunnels were shaped narrow at the ends to make the severe bend. Having trouble getting the spruce to bend. I have heated the ends with hot moist cloth. First attempt cracked. I do not want to cut down the top part of the hull at stems as someone suggested. I would like to keep the shape original. Any ideas out there on how to shape those gunnels to the original hull shape? Thanks Bob

• Bob Buss
• Replies: 51
• Forum: Wood and Canvas

 

[samb]

Mike Elliotts new book should have all the information you need. (Other canoe fix books are available)

https://www.amazon.co.uk/This-Fancy-Old-Canoe-Comprehensive/dp/0994863314/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?crid=2AX0160CGYAYY&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.tColPxrlrjtfLVSumKGXaHqOypPvmPzmY2pnJEE7Tqk38RYUgxlBc8xcDa5seEOdCsp_4whi3_KA3guG6Mt58m1LIQUqfYvQ5t_WETc4r8ILVjnPhGt2pJhnio9r6yn1U4GoFWzomc56nZai7fVJg-4_HY1f32qe0_0_7eXuu5iChUvUz6KdttwPPnbrs2W3xU4THG4_RcsoYpe3JuTxwQ.RXei487fYwrmKTDL4zYQY4zyXwiAVvYDGjFKvMFKCfA&dib_tag=se&keywords=mike+Elliott&qid=1721890698&sprefix=mike+elliott+%2Caps%2C79&sr=8-3#immersive-view_1721890721603

 

[floydvoid]

Do you have a section of the old gunwale? Do you already have some type of pre made gunwale you are starting with? I found that each old town I have had a slightly different profile. I cut a rabbit for the inside , attach the middle, then taper and steam the ends in place. After all that I found it easiest to shape the outside by hand to match the old gunwale.