Homemade Handy Keelson/Rib Gap Cleanout Tool

[59Thompson]

:idea: Working on my new to me SeaCoaster and learned the gaps were plugged on many ribs preventing front to rear drainage. I had heard of using a piece of wire but could not find anything both strong enough and flexible enough for my situation. I did today, it is simply bicycle brake cable outer sheath and works great. Cut off about a 2 foot piece, it is just the right diameter to poke into the gap and the extra length enables you to coil it around one hand for poking force while the other hand guides it. I also left the cut end rough as the cable can be screwed in a circular motion like a plumbing auger to slice through built up varnish, seeds and other bilge accumulations without damaging the wood. Once finished I plan to pull coarse sisal rope through the gaps back and forth before revarnishing the area. Hope this is useful to others. Regards, John

[LancerBoy]

nice tip.

i use a wire coat hanger.

andreas