Step One: Wash the Canoe

I officially kicked off the Winooski project last weekend with it's first washing in at least 4 years (probably many more). You'll be surprised what you learn about a boat when you wipe every surface. I uncovered several chips in the gelcoat and a bunch of tiny cracks. Looks like I'm going to get the opportunity to learn about gelcoat refinishing. Thankfully I have a few contacts including one at Mad River Canoe where I can seek advise. On the inside, the bath confirmed the need for all new trim and seats. I'll be replacing the cane seats with new web ones that I ordered from Mad River when I got the gunwales and other parts. I decided to get new seats rather than re-web the existing ones since this boat will be for sale when I'm finished.





Once the cleaning has shown you what you've got to replace and fix, take lots of pictures. Once all the trim is removed you'll be happy to have this reference when questions arise about details such as how the gunwales come together at the ends. Digital cameras have made this step much easier. I generally take 10 times the number of pictures I need and delete the unnecessary ones. Now that I'm comfortable that I've documented the details I'll start removing all the old trim.





On the topic of re-webbed seats, the Canoe ICU clinic on the 14th was on that subject. Chris joined me in the boathouse where we removed the rotten caning and wove new webbing on the wood frames. The picture shows seats through the process. The next Canoe ICU clinic is March 28th. We'll be installing skid plates. Call the shop at 828-877-3106 to sign up for this free clinic.


Happy Paddling,

Lec