shesaproject
New Member
Hello! Just wanted to start of by saying hello and thanks for all the wonderful contributors to this site, I've learned so much already by browsing threads; it's been a great help!
I'm still apprehensive about starting on my project until I have a full understanding of what needs to be done, so here goes! Thanks for any info or advice, all appreciated
Hello!
I've gotten myself into quite a project.
Picked up a red Merrimack canoe from an antique store for fishing trips with my big ol' oldie Weim dog and the occasional guest. HIN dates her to August of '84. No decal, but she's an Osprey model.
First, the interior: the fiberglass mat Merrimack puts in at the bottom of the ribs is not flush with the rest of the ribs, which I don't think have their resin coating at all anymore. Definitely need to resand and coat inside, (based on research). Some cracks in ribs at the bow. Not sure order of process, and do I layer over the mat that is left at bottom of canoe? Already have #400 sandpaper as described on manufacturer website for restoration recs as well as Watco Teak Oil, also rec'd by Merrimack.
the big one: the bottom bubbles up when I tested her in the lake. Visibly. All through the bottom of the ribs. From research this may be classified as oil canning, not sure though. Seems restoration on inside as mentioned above will help restore stiffness, though whether enough to completely eliminate the "bubbling" I'm not sure. It's quite a pop up when afloat.
She's beautiful though! No leaks or cracks. Light as a feather
for solo transport. Stable enough for standing and a 75 lb. pup. Only one small dent/light scratch at the stern. Needs a new gel coat on the hull I think. Not entirely sure I can accurately tell this, but if she's at 30 years, pretty likely I would guess?
Lastly, was unsure of how to tell if the waterline was too high. Any idea how to test? I'm sure stiffening the boat back up will bring her up on the water instead of down in it, but just curious
Above is all conjecture and may make ZERO sense but have done my best to research. Know I can also get in touch with manufacturer but have read mixed reports of his availability via email/phone.
thank you thank you! I can't wait to get started. I'm a teacher so summers require extra projects! Realized that, if I can't hike close to home, I can certainly pack and paddle around here
Will post pics as soon as I find some internet to use
Thanks again!!
I'm still apprehensive about starting on my project until I have a full understanding of what needs to be done, so here goes! Thanks for any info or advice, all appreciated
Hello!
I've gotten myself into quite a project.
Picked up a red Merrimack canoe from an antique store for fishing trips with my big ol' oldie Weim dog and the occasional guest. HIN dates her to August of '84. No decal, but she's an Osprey model.
First, the interior: the fiberglass mat Merrimack puts in at the bottom of the ribs is not flush with the rest of the ribs, which I don't think have their resin coating at all anymore. Definitely need to resand and coat inside, (based on research). Some cracks in ribs at the bow. Not sure order of process, and do I layer over the mat that is left at bottom of canoe? Already have #400 sandpaper as described on manufacturer website for restoration recs as well as Watco Teak Oil, also rec'd by Merrimack.
the big one: the bottom bubbles up when I tested her in the lake. Visibly. All through the bottom of the ribs. From research this may be classified as oil canning, not sure though. Seems restoration on inside as mentioned above will help restore stiffness, though whether enough to completely eliminate the "bubbling" I'm not sure. It's quite a pop up when afloat.
She's beautiful though! No leaks or cracks. Light as a feather
for solo transport. Stable enough for standing and a 75 lb. pup. Only one small dent/light scratch at the stern. Needs a new gel coat on the hull I think. Not entirely sure I can accurately tell this, but if she's at 30 years, pretty likely I would guess?
Lastly, was unsure of how to tell if the waterline was too high. Any idea how to test? I'm sure stiffening the boat back up will bring her up on the water instead of down in it, but just curious
Above is all conjecture and may make ZERO sense but have done my best to research. Know I can also get in touch with manufacturer but have read mixed reports of his availability via email/phone.
thank you thank you! I can't wait to get started. I'm a teacher so summers require extra projects! Realized that, if I can't hike close to home, I can certainly pack and paddle around here
Will post pics as soon as I find some internet to use
Thanks again!!
