Stem Band Replacement on a Molded Veneer Canoe

[SouthernKevlar]

I'm finally getting around to replacing a broken stem band on my Allied Aviation Corporation molded mahogany canoe. I noticed that the original stem band shows no evidence of using any bedding compound or caulk under it, so I am assuming that it is not necessary with this type of construction. My plan in to remove the brass band, sand and varnish the hull (needed anyway), bend and drill the bands then attach the new bands without bedding.

Do any of you experienced band-benders have any advice on these plans? Any thoughts will be appreciated.

 

[Dave Osborn]

Use bedding

 

[SouthernKevlar]

Thanks Dave.
Just curious thuough, but should the concave stem band actually touch the mahogany (well, the varnish) at the edges or should the bedding fully support the stem band even under the edges of the concavity, floating the stem band on the bedding material?

 

[Dave Osborn]

I fully bed the concave stem band. It’s as tight to the wood as possible. Apply the bedding with a plan to wipe off excess.
The goal is to seal the band so that water does not get underneath. If water is introduced, it can promote rot and wicking into the screw holes.
I have seen some bands that are only bedded at the screw holes, but I don’t like the look of the potential gaps as well as an entry for water.
I like to use mahogany colored bedding. I think it looks better along the side of the band than the natural color.
Mahogany color is hard to find sometimes.

 

[Worth Gretter]

The bedding prevents leaks along the fasteners. You need it.

 

[SouthernKevlar]

I will be ordering the bedding compound along with the stem bands. Thanks to all for the info.

I like to use mahogany colored bedding. I think it looks better along the side of the band than the natural color.
Mahogany color is hard to find sometimes.

Dave, do you have any recommendations on where to find the mahogany colored compound? That should blend in nicely with the mahogany hull.

 

[Dave Osborn]

I don’t recall where I got the last couple of quarts of bedding. The internet is your friend.