Lightning Frames Question

[David Tabor (sailordave)]

Well, after a long delay I'm finally getting around to finishing up some frame and beam repair prior to installing a new deck. I've laminated two new frames out of mahogany (not worried about the weight versus the original Spanish Cedar, plus I had it on hand!) I'm wondering if I should coat the frames w/ epoxy prior to installing or just varnish. Obviously non of the other frames are going to be so sealed and the boat will live inside or under cover. I also don't want to epoxy the frames to the planking, just mechanically fasten them. Any thoughts???

http://myboatyard.homestead.com/files/Light9.jpg
This is one of the frames that was cracked.

[Carl Simmons]

David,

Since nothing else is covered in epoxy then I would just varnish. From what I understand about epoxy it is all or nothing. My lightning is completely encased in epoxy and then varnished (or painted).

Carl.