PS22 stem

[john_manchester]

I'm just starting PS22 hull #19, fearlessly but unfortunately with few other qualifications. Hope you all won't mind me poking my head in from time to time with a few dumb questions.

Question #1: Can I go ahead and use a regular old KD spruce 2x6 framing stud from the local lumber yard for the stem and knee (digging through the pile of course to find a nice one)? The plans call for "stock", which I take to mean pretty much whatever I can get in a quick stop on the way home from work. But reading around has got me thinking I should find a nice piece of clear fir with vertical grain, which I'll have to order (I'm in Southern New Hampshire, and haven't seen fir studs for the past couple of years). Guys also seem to like mahogany. There's good availability on (I think Honduras) mahogany at the local yards since it's getting more use in porches and decks. Is it worth the extra expense of fir or mahogany, or doesn't it really matter--do you get enough strength from the stem by glueing on the plywood and cap?

Question #2: What should I use for the stem cap? The local yards stock finish and Primelock pine--are those materials OK? Or does the boat need something a little harder for strength?

Many thanks-

John Manchester

[Designer]

You could use spruce and it would be strong enough but it is not very durable. Assuming that it is epoxy sealed that should not be a problem, except that your bow eye will be a highly stressed area and if the caulking ever fails and it leaks it could rot out in time.

A better lost cost alternative would be southern yellow pine. I would also prefer something tougher than spruce for the stem cap as it is bound to bang into docks etc over time.

The keel batten would be better made out pine or fir.

I would avoid oak because of it's acidity, it does not get along with epoxy.

Spruce would be more than adequate for the interior joinery.

[john_manchester]

Thanks guys. Sounds like "total cost of ownership" is relevant here. I'll use mahogany.

Both--name is Manchester, and I live there, as will the boat on a trailer. I got my plywood from Maine Coast Lumber, good prices and very knowledgeable and friendly staff. I nosed around the warehouse but must have only seen part of their lumber selection (they've got a lot of plywood). I'll give them a call.