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Replacing the Taffrail on a newer A30


When I removed the remains of the old taffrail, I found that there was a little delamination in the hull-deck joint. This is probably a relic of an old collision or docking accident.

The delamination did not go all the way through, so I just spread the crack with a screwdriver and squirted in some 3M 5200 caulk.

While I had the taffrail removed, I through-bolted the hull deck joint. I also sealed the outside of the joint with a liberal application of 5200.

The new taffrail was made by Cy Fishburn by laminating strips of teak. I drilled and countersunk for screws, and trimmed it to size.

The edges didn't quite match the rails, so I filed the rails down to meet.

Once it fit to my satisfaction, I screwed the new taffrail to the deck, bedded in 3M 5200 caulk. It might be prudent to use 4200, but I don't anticipate removing the taffrail and the 5200 was at hand.

I then dipped some teak plugs in resorcinal glue and lightly tapped them into place in the screwholes.

The plugs stood proud of the taffrail. I chiseled off the bulk of the protuding plugs...

...and then carefully trimmed closer, paying attention to which way the grain tilted. Finally I sanded the plugs smooth.

Voila! A new taffrail!


This Old Boat book cover This Old Boat by Don Casey

Subtitled "turn a rundown fiberglass boat into a first-class yacht on a shoestring budget," this book is the best introduction I know boat maintenance for the new or prospective owner of a "modern classic" sailboat. Starting with guidelines for selecting a boat, Casey proceeds to fiberglass repairs, cabin and deckwork, spars and rigging, boat equipment, woodwork, electrical, plumbing, refrigeration, painting, canvas work and sails. All of this is described in clear, simple terms perfect for the inexperienced. This is the book that taught me fiberglass work. But don't let it fool you; this book is appropriate for experienced boatowners, too. I still refer to it.

Other books by Don Casey

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