Jaysen's Mini 580 plan -- on indefinite pause :(

[Jaysen]

My neighbor (build site) is assisting with his resources in wholesale lumber. Once we get a couple quotes and compare actual weights I’ll report back.

[pee wee]

I was at a (state?) park on the Florida panhandle near Pensacola that had an interactive display on ship building wood. They had three one-foot cubes of wood tied with rope up to pulley and down to a hand rail so visitors could lift each one. One was yellow pine, one white oak, and one live oak. As expected, the oak was much heavier than the pine, but I was shocked at how much heavier the live oak was compared to the white oak- dense stuff.

Very interesting, and nothing like hefting a piece for yourself to drive home the differences. I don't know which would be better for your build, just that there is a big difference between them (and don't use live oak!).

[Netpackrat]

I seem to recall that oak doesn't take epoxy very well.

[terrulian]

Thanks for that...I'll have to look into it as I recently took an axe to a branch from a fallen live oak which I am ripping into flitches which I'll let dry. It's going to be a bunch of small pieces, only enough to make a box, but knowing me I may have used epoxy instead of wood glue.
Unlike Jaysen, I'm not too concerned with the box sinking.

[pee wee]

I seem to recall that oak doesn't take epoxy very well.

I'm not sure that's true, but it has been discussed before. I recall looking that up and seeing some sources refuting the claim.

[pee wee]

It looks like there are potential issues, but proper prep plays a part. It looks like the oils in the wood are a factor; here's a discussion on epoxy/white oak:

https://www.epoxyworks.com/index.php/so ... ighty-oak/

[mhd]

Jaysen,

I somehow hadn't read this thread previously. The information in here is incredibly useful - including Jacques poignant stories, comments and recommendations.

Obviously you thought about this in huge detail. While I'm not interested in racing, there was a reason we chose to build the VG23. Sailing a passage (or more) is the dream at the end of the day. I'd be very grateful if you have any advice with this in mind, as we continue with the build.

Cheers,

Mick