20' Grew SeaMaster

by Tyler
(1000 Islands)

I am re doing the whole bottom of a 1952 mahogany lapstrake 20' Grew SeaMaster Utility.

The Keel, stem, framing,ribs, planks ect.

It's all in bad shape.

Everything is pooched but the lines are still mainly in tact.

What should my first step be?

Flip?

Not flip?

Remove planks around the keel?

What should I do to keep it all together if everything is pretty much rotted?

If anyone has any advise I would greatly appreciate it.

Tyler - 1000 Islands, Ontario




Comments for 20' Grew SeaMaster

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Nov 15, 2015
 grew seamaster
by: Anonymous

Not familiar with this particular boat, but the same basics apply to any poor old lass that's been neglected.

I am currently renovating a Broads Cruiser built in 1932.

She was in a state which meant I couldn't lift her from the garden she was sitting in.

The lady who sold her to me was kind enough to let me do the initial work there.

To get her strong enough to lift I worked on one area at a time.

First removing every second rib from the cockpit so as not to lose her lines and replacing them. then go back and replace the ones you left in last time.

I left rotten bulkheads etc but replaced all rotten ribs and around fifty percent of the planks before lifting her and taking her to a workshop.

This assured the existing shape was maintained.

You note I said existing this is not the same as original.

When restoring a boat, make sure the shape you are saving is the correct shape else you are into a new set of problems.

When you have done this if you want to flip her you can, but from what you say if you try to flip her first you could lose all existing lines.

Forget doing it quickly, if she is worth saving take your time and enjoy every bit you manage to put right

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