[Public-List] Replacing Taffrail

[Carla]

I am looking to replace the 50 year old taffrail on Quest 433, a liner boat that has the shorter Taffrail. I measure it at 3/8” but have no idea how much may have been sanded away over the years. It does however mate up relatively well where it meets the quarter cap rails.  It appears to have been originally made using three 4” wide boards glued together and cut to the radius of the raised deck molding.  So far I have been able to source 1/2” up to 6” wide.  After plaining down to 3/8” this would require only two glue joints.  

I have a friend who is builds antique furniture and has agreed to help with the woodworking. We will use the existing taffrail as a template. Other than removing the 50 year old bungs and likely rusted fasteners does anybody have any thoughts or advice regarding this work.  Also would I be advised to try and locate a 12” wide board and avoid glue joints altogether. 

Thanks, for any advice and/or suggestions for sourcing the teak lumber.

Richard Hazlegrove
Quest433
Mobjack Bay, VA