Cheese Technology

Having decided that I needed a longer pole so I can set mast rake back to how it was, things escalated rapidly!

Problem 1. Concerned with the unsupported 11-foot pole as it is offset from the snout, also the snout was short by about 100mm and mast is well forward so had no chance of fitting a self tacker with a reasonable size jib.

Solution- just simply fit a new snout with centre pole, no problem!

Problem 2.Retracting the pole so it misses the mast.

Solution- need a pole with lots of taper, no problem!

Problem 3. Can't find a pole tapered enough.

Solution- Make one.

Problem 4. Can't find a suitable mandrel.

Solution- Call in some favours with local engineering companies and have one made.

Problem 5. Find out I could almost buy a new cherub for the same price! (Next time they want some firewood or shavings they can ***!)

Solution- Make one in wood.

Problem 6. It is not possible to turn it in the traditional way because the section is too small for its length so it is too whippy, also is unlikely to stay straight.

Solution- After much head scratching ,glue timber around steel tube-

Make trough and fit mandrel in with it sticking out more at one end than the other.

Run the contraption through a spindle moulder then rotate the mandrel a few degrees and repeat. (all done very late at night to avoid a badly timed visit from Health and Safety)

Bit of sanding and

One mandrel aprox 4.2m long, 30mm dia at the pointy end and 85mm at blunt end. Made so the launch tube can be made on the mandrel as well.

New launch tube and pole in boat.

Problem 7: Just thought whilst I have gone this far a might as well give her a sand back and re-spray but the side tanks were a bit soft. So I cut a hole to have a look. Very damp and de-laminating. before long I was back to a sound hull and floor.

As I have gone this far I am planning to cut the flairs off extend the sides up and fit either racks or wings, not sure yet.

P.S. Class members are welcome to borrow the mandrel.