[alberg30] Cockpit Coamings

[jpgrathwol at aol.com]

Hello list.

I've been reading the list since December and finally have cause to ask the 
group some questions.  As a new A30 owner I've learned a lot just by reading.

I have recently stripped the years of varnish from the cockpit coamings which 
I intend to refinish in Cetol or Armada.  What I've found however is that the 
underside of the inboard side of each coaming has a gap of 1/4" to 3/8" 
between the teak and the deck.  This gap is wider at the stern.  On the 
outside there is a 1/4 round piece of trim which covers the gap if it even 
exists on the outboard side.  Should this gap be caulked prior to 
refinishing?  Should it be left open to allow trapped moisture to dry, 
ultimately preventing more rot than caulking which would trap any moisture 
that did get past the caulk?  If yes to caulk which caulk?

Second, any thoughts on bleaching teak?  I have read of a procedure using 
oxalic acid.  A wooden boat guy at my boatyard used household bleach on his 
mast after stripping it bare prior to re-varnishing.  I am looking for the 
procedure that works the best and is least likely to result in my gumming it 
up.

Thanks in advance.

John Grathwol
A30 #88
Dovekie

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