Replacing Ribs

[Ron Bull]

When replacing old cracked ribs, is it best to use the bottom of the canoe as a form? Or can a form be made with plywood to the correct contour of that part of the canoe? Which is easier and which will provide the best fitting rib after it is steamed.

 

[Dan Miller]

Using the outside of the hull to bend replacement ribs is certainly easiest, fastest, and requires no additional materials.

When using the hull as a form, bend the rib over a location that is closer to the stems than its destination. You can figure out the location by measuring the beam of the replacement rib, inside face to inside face, and locate the section of hull that measures the same to the outside of the planking.