Mark in Modesto
08-26-2002, 12:03 PM
I'm refinishing my newly acquired '55 Wolverine Wagemaker and need a few
tips, please.
First: The foredeck is thin, mahogany planks and what's left of the caulking is a red putty. I'm going to refinish the planks but I'm not clear
whether the varnish goes on before or after the new caulk and, for that matter, which caulk is best to use.
Second: This hull is cold-molded and the surface, though intact, is dull. I'd like to pretty it up as well, but I'm concerned that a strong chemical stripper might damage the stuff (resin, epoxy, glue?) used in the original
building/molding process. Should I just sand the surface and re-finish with a good varnish? Is one product better than others?
Third: I'll have to remove two or three planks to repair the purchase of the (bronze) screws in the frames underneath. The holes have been plugged with a hard, tan colored stuff (probably the original filler?). Is there a best way
to remove the "plugs" to access the (Phillips) screw heads, or do I just dig it out? I've soaked a couple with stripper and the filler does eventually soften, which makes it a lot easier to remove than when it's hard and dry.
Thank you,
tips, please.
First: The foredeck is thin, mahogany planks and what's left of the caulking is a red putty. I'm going to refinish the planks but I'm not clear
whether the varnish goes on before or after the new caulk and, for that matter, which caulk is best to use.
Second: This hull is cold-molded and the surface, though intact, is dull. I'd like to pretty it up as well, but I'm concerned that a strong chemical stripper might damage the stuff (resin, epoxy, glue?) used in the original
building/molding process. Should I just sand the surface and re-finish with a good varnish? Is one product better than others?
Third: I'll have to remove two or three planks to repair the purchase of the (bronze) screws in the frames underneath. The holes have been plugged with a hard, tan colored stuff (probably the original filler?). Is there a best way
to remove the "plugs" to access the (Phillips) screw heads, or do I just dig it out? I've soaked a couple with stripper and the filler does eventually soften, which makes it a lot easier to remove than when it's hard and dry.
Thank you,