Traditional Centerboard and Case

by Bob Smalser, Seabeck, WA

Part II—The Case

CVG 3⁄8" Doug Fir is laid up into panels with rabbeted 7⁄8" bed logs.

…and sealed.

Posts are thicknessed and primed and case profile laid out for one side.

Opposite side laid out…

….and made identical. Sides were also drifted using ¼" bronze rods as in the construction of the center board.

Interior painted and assembly clamped up using nonadhesive sealant…

…and case riveted together using 16 and 20d copper nails after sealant sets up.

Center board pivot pin of marine brass fitted to center board's bronze bushing with 3 hundredths clearance.

Pin caps are turned on the lathe along with a winch pedestal and mast step…note how the rift-sawn oak is laminated to minimize the effects of seasonal movement on the glue lines.

Case is drilled for pivot pin…

…and board fitted and function tested.

Lifting rod is cut to length and a handle/stop brazed on…

…and the assembly is ready for installation in the boat:

Continuation of the project, Installation.