The Restoration of Helen Smitton.
The World's Oldest Surviving Motor Lifeboat in Seagoing Condition - when Re-launched in 2021
Support the project - How?
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By providing information about the vessel and those communities and people associated with her so that a complete history can be put together.
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By sponsoring materials for her restoration. So far no funding has been sought but the latter part of her restoration is the most costly. I have received some materials, such as a new propeller shaft and I have made and purchased many items, such as her re-built Gardner engine. From time to time I will list what items I am short of and their cost so that those who wish to donate can do so. If someone wishes to order a specific item(s) for the project rather than sending money, that would be great. Just let me know.
Second-hand items are fine if they are still serviceable or if they can be repaired or modified. All donations will be acknowledged on the website. Many Thanks
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List of items needed at present:
Item Cost £ Sponsored by
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Silicon bronze gripfast nails 14x1.25", 1kg, available from Seaware, Penryn 80
Silicon Bronze gripfast nails 14x1", 1kg 80
A4 stainless steel countersunk slotted woodscrews 2"x10, 300 off 50
A4 stainless steel countersunk slotted woodscrews 1.75"x10, 400off 40
Marine plywood, 2x5.5mm, 2x9mm & 4x18mm, 8x4' sheets 280
Most of the above is for the weather deck and end boxes.
Cascamite powdered wood glue 1.5kg 24
PPS shaft seal for 1.75" dia. shaft from ASAP Supplies 431
Paint. I'm always short of paint, particularly International yacht primer, 750ml, approx. 21
West System epoxy resin 105 with 206 hardner, 6kg varies, about 125
Numerous old wooden sheeve (pulley) blocks for rigging to take 1/2" dia. rope.
I can repair damaged ones.
Morse MT3 single engine control or similar varies, about 160 to 240
Marine alternator for engine, 12v insulated return, 40amp about 135
Mizzen, main & foresail - no quotes yet.
Modifications to Gardner gearbox - no quote yet.
Exhaust waterlock - no price yet.
Exhaust flexible pipework - no price yet.
Numerous blonze skin fittings for exhaust and bilge outlets - no price yet.
Fuel pipework and valves - no price yet.
Outer bearing housing for 2" shaft + cutlass bearing - no price yet -
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Contact details are below