: I am currently building a 16' SOF canoe from Platt Monforts plans. I am
: wondering if I can skip the gunnel blocks that are in the plans and just
: attach the inwhale to the ribs. I guess the blocks add some strength to
: the gunnels, but they are going to take some time to make and install.
: Anyone else experience this.
: Thanks,
: Adam
Hi Adam. I'm no expert on Monfort's boats, but the ribs are tiny. Most SOF canoe ribs are MUCH more substantial than the airolite boats.
I suspect there's an important reason for the gunwale blocks, so you leave them out at your own risk. Overall, the time involved to make them is not that significant, and will certainly be worth he peace of mind you'll get in knowing you built the boat "right."
In any case, you might want to ask around on the woodenboat forum, http://www.woodenboat.com/forum/
which I know is frequented by several Monfort design builders.

Good luck!
Dave