Timber for Spreaders / Wood Mast Repairs

[SurferShane]

I have a steel H 28 ketch and immediately need to replace the wood spreaders. The mizzen boom will also eventually need replacement. The most important question is what timbers are suitable for spreaders especially at a reasonable price? Or am I better paying a bit more? The existing ones have suffered obvious rot and damage. The main mast is hardly 30 ft long and the spreaders about 3 ft x 3 ½ ” x 3 ½”.

I gave searching for a recommendation a go, but could not find a definite answer.

I am also wondering if the mast is something like solid red Oregon? It looks like some sort of light orange/reddish pine. The mizzen boom actually broke where someone has previously butted this timber to an end section of lighter pine.

I am in Australia, so could any answers be converted into timbers available over here.

I am basically just going to replicate the existing spreaders and mizzen boom and repaint the masts; however, any other construction tips are welcomed. I note I have a small patch of rot at the bottom corner of each mast where fresh water has had difficulty draining from the mast head. I might also have to do something like dowel around the mizzen mast screws, where a bit of play has allowed water penetration and rot?

Many thanks, Shane

 

[DownWest]

Shane,
you might try over on the Wooden Boat Forum. More owners of H28s there, and some in OZ too.
A

Just don't mention what the hull is made of )

 

[Seanick]

Spreaders and tillers are made of Ash, because of its interlocking grain.
Its not durable, but it is always finished bright (varnished) so its condition can be monitered when the mast is taken down every year.

 

[SurferShane]

Thanks! – Sooner I get started the better.

 

[Woodlouse]

As said, Ash is good for Spreaders.

It sounds like you are right about the wood for the mast too. Oregon pine/Douglas fir does tend to take on a reddish hue with age and varnish.

 

[SurferShane]

As said, Ash is good for Spreaders.

It sounds like you are right about the wood for the mast too. Oregon pine/Douglas fir does tend to take on a reddish hue with age and varnish.

The mast has been painted, but from the few bits where the paint has chipped the grain looks like the same. I have mates who are boat builders and into woodwork who could confirm this for me.

At the moment I have epoxy primed any vulnerable spots till I get a chance to repaint the masts. I would not be surprised once I started sanding I find they are box construction. After fixing some minor rot I am seriously thinking of going back to varnish. It would really give the boat a classic look and make it easier to inspect the wood?