With the forward base section the keel in place, we then fit the knee or deadwood on top planning the position of the through bolts for more maximum strength, also made and fit is an anchor chain fixing eye this is welded onto a plate that fits over two of the through bolts instead of washers a much stronger job and no chance of breaking loose.
Next stage fitting the base section of the new stem, no template to make as we had the original to copy from rotten hut still in one piece. Next the upper part of the new stempost again a copy of original, now we fit the apron this is broader than the stem and when bevelled to the right set gives the landing area for the hull planking. The apron is made longer than the top stem section to keep the scarf joints apart for more strength.
Now its time to replace the forward planking removed to make easy repairs, hut before fixing a coat of paint is applied to the stem and apron. This is the only time they will get paint. Not exposed once planking done. Final touches, caulking along the keel seam on new planking and putty up the seams then a coat of grey primer.
We now plan out where to start next and we move onto the transom.
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