Routing deck seams

[Des_Beechey]

I am routing out the seams on the deck to 8 mm wide so I can fill with Sikaflex. I am using a plunge router to do this, but, because of the size of the router and its base, I can't get within 3 inches of vertical fittings - cabin sides, etc. Is there a power tool available that can groove right up to a vertical surface? In an article in PBO (I think May 2005) there was mention of a "groover", but I have mislaid the brand name.

 

[PCUK]

What about the Roto-Zip as seen on TV. These are OK but you need to arrange some method of guiding the machine in a straight line. Also some routers can be dismantled and taken out ot the guide base. Same thing applies with guiding it though.

 

[LORDNELSON]

You could use a Fein Multimaster with the appropriate blade ( Multimaster Panelled Deck Repair Blade (3mm and 4MM)). I have a Multimaster but have not used it for this application yet. It should get in close to your hatches etc. Expensive but I have found the tool very good for other applications. Axminster Power Tool Centre stock it - 0800 371822. www.axminster.co.uk

 

[pelissima]

Des,
I did my whole deck this year using a friend’s router for the job. I too played with the idea of using the Feinmaster. However I noticed that the base of the offered router was cut along the one side -from previous owner, so that I could work pretty close the toe rail. So before investing, see if you can modify your tool without of course damaging its stability.
Regards
George

 

[smee]

The article to which you refer, mentions the use of a Virutex RA17D grooving machine. Try net search to find supplier.

 

[dragoon]

I bought one of the Fein Multimastters some time ago for the deck seams on Dragoon. They're not cheap, but they do the job! I got mine from a place in Southampton - I forget where exactly but could probably dig out the receipt if needed.
http://www.feinmultimaster.co.uk/products/feintools/multimaster/applications_boat_maintenance.htm

Cheers,
Paul

 

[Des_Beechey]

Thanks for looking it up. I've found them on the net.
Des Beechey