Balsa re-core

[SV Tatyana]

Getting ready to recore some wet sections of balsa on a 25D and was wondering if anyone happens to know if it's solid glass under the jib track or there is balsa in the recessed area?

Thanks,
Richard

[bhartley]

On #90 the coring stopped just before the dip on the recess. I have lots of info and pictures on recoring a 25D if you need any other info.

Don't forget to join the CDSOA too!

Bly

[SV Tatyana]

bhartley,
If you have any pictures I would greatly appreciate it..I just orderd some 3/8 balsa which will hopefully get here by the end of the week..do you also happen to know if its solid glass all the way out to the stanchion bases?

Thanks,
Richard

[devindiedrich]

I am interested in seeing the pictures too. I will be starting the same project in the next month on my CD30.

I would also be interested in hearing what you did to finish the topsides. Did you re-use the top sheet or lay new fiberglass? What did you use to finish the non-skid and smooth areas on deck?

Thanks,
Devin

[SV Tatyana]

When I cut off the skin I noticed that there was some plywood randomly placed in strange areas... Anyone else found this? Surprisingly the ply was still in decent shape but I believe this led to the cracked gel/skin due to the balsa being softer creating a stress point.. I can understand the ply in high load areas but it seemed to be just random sections and it looks to be original...

[joemerchant]

When I cut off the skin I noticed that there was some plywood randomly placed in strange areas... Anyone else found this? Surprisingly the ply was still in decent shape but I believe this led to the cracked gel/skin due to the balsa being softer creating a stress point.. I can understand the ply in high load areas but it seemed to be just random sections and it looks to be original...

It is not common practice, but I have seen it done now more than a couple times where the coring material is made up of scraps - first time I have heard of Cape Dory doing this. Probably laid up on a Friday at 4 - remember, human beings built our boats. Looks like the pattern of a quilt. Yes, this would flex more than solid, which would crack the gel.


If you can re-use the glass you cut out, it will make the job much easier. Make sure to clean the glass really well and get all the balsa off in order to get a good bond. If you are not doing a huge area, I would choose foam or ply over putting balsa back in there - just my preference.