These four photos all show the removal of weakened and unserviceable
planking. An endeavour is being made to strengthen the
half-frames in a more robust manner - with correspondingly heavier
lateral stringers which together take the thrust and pressure of the
waves against the cedar planking. Zinc-plated screws &
fastenings are used; plain steel screws will rust/break in less than
a year.
Oakum as was used in Nelson's day is still used in these boat's
construction and repair. Planking is carefully shaped and
tapered - allowing for appropriate caulking space with an oakum and
molten marine glue mixture being hammered into the seams. The
marine glue is not easy to locate - in a world of glass reinforced
plastic boats it is a dated and declining commodity.
Marine glue is a vital component indeed - even for the open 19
footer boats that are standard "dive boats". It is
sold in 25 kg tins - each tin is GBP100 = USD200 and then comes
transport out to Malawi. Another vital imported glue is "Cascamite
Powder Glue" - essential for above waterline uses. The
importation rigmarole has to be implemented with Customs levies
payable to any and all transportation charges.
Chandlery items are imported; zinc plated fastenings; galvanised lag
screws; bilge pumps; navigation light bulbs and housings; shackles,
relays and switches; lift pumps and heat exchangers; marine gear box
spares; gasket sets; damper clutch plates; impellers and shims;
anti-vibration engine mounts; gearbox joint kits; ring sets; conrod
bearings; fuel injectors and nozzles...the list continues...
