Thanks Sedges. My seats are much larger and I drilled holes for caning. Not sure yet if I'll let my friend in the canoe - but it's good to know it's a possibility. Bill.
If permitted I have an off-topic question for Sedges. I too have a friend who weighs near 280 lbs. He would love to go canoeing with me but I am afraid my seats would not hold. I built Gilpatricks trapezoidal seats using 3/4" X 1 1/2" white ash. What seats do you have that supports your partner? Bill.
Topic: Ash Seats - How Strong?
Ealger and Riverrats calculations and Riverrats real life experience all support a decision to make the new seat. I'll probably go with the 1-1/4" ash and fiberglass the underside. Thanks to all for your input. Bill.
Its Me - you have confimed my fears that the 3/4" seats won't hold up. Thanks. I'll most likely build the new seat. How did you calculate that 1-1/4" stock would be needed? Bill.
Patricks Dad - yes I agree it is a good idea to fiberglass the underside. But the seats are already built and caned. If I do decide to build another seat just for my firend I think I will use Ricks idea. Sounds like a good way to add strength. Thanks for your reply - Bill.
Rick - Thanks for the suggestion to reinforce on the underside. Unfortunately the cane is tied off on the underside and would get in the way. Bill.
Thanks Doug and Rick. I do have some 3/4" X 1-1/2" ash left over from making the seats. I'll test it and see what happens. Maybe the best soltion is just make my friend his own seat out of heavier ash. Bill.
Ash Seats - How Strong?
Whoops - I missed the September 20 thread by Riverrat which addressed this topic directly. Sorry for the repitition - Bill.