clinker hull leak problem

[Bogle]

I have a 32ft. clinker boat built in 1967 which is now leaking in the plank butt joints in a couple of places.Can anyone please tell me the correct way to deal with this problem.I have repaired a similar leak before by replacing the backing board behind the butt and sealing with sikaflex.The board was then bolted up with stainless steel bolts.I am taking in about 8 litres a day which is easily taken care of by the bilge pump.I am not happy relying on the pump as it can fail to operate.
Any suggestions most welcome and thaks in advance.
Cal :

 

[Peterduck]

There is rarely only one satisfactory way of repairing a wooden boat. I would certainly be wary of such dogmatic statements as a 'correct' way. The repair that you have described sounds good. It avoids the removal of a whole plank or both planks, which may be sound in all other respects. I might have been tempted to put a temporary butt-block on the outside to spread the effort of the bolts more evenly over the repair area while the Sikaflex cures, but it wouldn't be essential.
Peter.

 

[cliffordpope]

The clinker hulls I have seen have had scarfed joints, not butt. But perhaps later repairs are sometimes butted?
I can't see anything wrong with what has been suggested, except that I'd have used red lead paste. But surely stainless steel is not advised below the waterline? Why not copper rivits?

 

[Bogle]

Thanks for reply.I agree that copper rivets are best but I live in the South of France and it is very difficult to get anything apart from basic materials.
Best wishes,
Doug Callaway

 

[Bogle]

Thanks for your reply,sounds like good advice.
Best wishes
Doug Callaway

 

[Peterduck]

I would recommend the Toplicht company in Hamburg for mail order supplies. Their website is at www.toplicht.de. They send out an excellent catalogue with translations into English. The range of their stock is quite breathtaking.
Peter.

 

[Bogle]

Peter,
Just received Toplicht catalogue,just the job, thankyou very much for help.
Doug.