Repair and Maintenance of a Drascombe Lugger

Drascombe Lugger: Constructing a replacement centreplate case capping (page 2 of 4)

Having decided that Sospiri's capping was beyond further repair, the first stage of replacement was to take careful measurements from the old damaged capping. Several modifications were planned to protect the new capping from being damaged when the centreplate was let down.

Constructing a replacement capping: Measuring up


Picture of damaged centreplate case capping The damaged capping

Picture shows the damaged teak capping. The slot to allow the head of the steel centreplate to swing up through the capping shows damage at the aft (bottom) end where the pin of the shackle has impacted into the wood either side of the slot. Extending the arm of the centreplate should solve this problem. The wood had completely split into two pieces from the slot to the end of the capping. The two halves had been crudely glued back together.

(Click on image for larger view)

Sketch plan of centreplate case capping Sketch plan of Lugger capping

Figure 2. Sketch plan of capping with the dimensions marked. To prevent the centreplate and shackle damaging the replacement capping it was initially decided to reduce the length of the slot. However it would need to be shortened by about 3 inches which would mean the plate could not be fully let down. A better solution is to weld a small 2 inch-long extension on to the end of the centreplate arm and this has now been done.

Click on this link for photo of plate extension

(Click on image for detailed drawing)

Sketch plan of stop-plate Sketch plan of 'Stop-Plate'

Figure 3. Sketch with dimensions of stainless steel 'stop-plate' which will be fitted at the end of the slot in the wooden capping. The plate will be made of two 0.25" thick stainless or galvanised steel plates welded together.

(Click on image for detailed drawing)

Photograph of stop-plate Photograph of completed 'Stop-Plate'

The drawing was sent to a local steel fabricator who was able to make the part in stainless steel. Here is the result which cost 5 UK pounds!

(Click on image for larger view)


Constructing a replacement: Additional considerations

Note that the dimensions in Fig. 2 (above) apply to Sospiri which is an early Mark 2 Lugger. Dimensions probably vary on later Luggers and may differ according to manufacturer (e.g. Churchouse or Honnor Marine). Anyone considering replacing their capping is strongly advised to carefully measure the existing capping before opting to construct or purchase a replacement. If purchasing a replacement double-check with the supplier that it is compatible with the measurements of the existing capping.

continued

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