Restoration
Journal
October 9th- 2003 - #7
More lumber!
The eight frames in place have used up all of the first load of lumber, 4cubic meters (about 1600 board foot). We had to make another trip to the "El Paradero" mill.
Two cubic meters of courbaril are for more frames, and now 5cm
(2 inches) thick slabs will be used for the hull's planking, 7 and 13
cm (2 3/4" and 5 1/8") planks for interior framing for a total of 6 cubic
meters (2500 bf).
The hand unloading of the lumber, with some slabs as heavy as 400 kg (800 pounds),
is not easy! The thicker and heavier one is ipé.
Juan, Manuel and Junior, helped by a neighbor, take one end of the slab, and four more men at the other end bring the lumber under a boat for shelter.
Picture perfect frames
From inside or out , those frames inspire a powerful structure, beautiful in its simplicity and organic curves.
With this strong lumber Karrek Ven can only be destined for great travels
and sailing... It is sad, nevertheless, to remove the old frames - they have
the weathered look and charm of old monuments full of history. We will treasure
a piece of
it to be added to the boat's memorabilia, perhaps next to the whale bone already
inside the boat.
The stern is less damaged, protected by more concrete and 60 years of oily engine- room bilge. We paint to avoid the checking of the frames and plug nail holes with wooden pegs.
How's life on board?
Not easy! We keep moving the essentials of living around based on the revolving needs of the restoration. Stove, fridge, radio, and computer are still functioning and enable this journal's weekly updates. The deck and wheel house are more or less usable as living space for the two or three permanent team members and visiting friends.
Marion is spending a few weeks on board to learn on site and to help with the project follow up. She is updating the spanish section of this web site. Manuel has boxed and organized of all of Karrek Ven's stuff, and prepare the terrain for the carpenters, moving things around and out of the way of the work. Léo oversees the restoration, finds and orders the lumber and all supplies necessary for the project. He is the spokesperson with the yard and the community,and discusses the techniques and building details with Aldo, the master carpenter. A network of various Karrek Ven alumni and friends has daily internet communications to help answer questions or provide advice.
Where are we at?
Eight frames are in place, both on port and starboard.
The stringers to link these frames inside will now be made and installed. Karrek Ven will have regained some rigidity for the upcoming move within the yard. No new pledges this week, but our site is getting more and more traffic, especially this journal, so don't forget us!
Restoration Journal
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#28 March-2004- |
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#32 April-2004- |
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