The Oarlock Pad Upgrade Every Wooden Boat Deserves with WEST SYSTEM G/Flex® epoxy
Say Goodbye to Ugly Oarlock Pads - A Simple & Elegant Upgrade | Nomad Boat Building Hi folks, it's Mark from Nomad Boat Building! In this video, I'm tackling one of my biggest boatbuilding pet peeves: chunky, ugly oarlock pads. You've poured your heart into building a beautiful boat-don't ruin it by slapping on a random block of wood. Instead, I'll show you how to build clean, elegant, and well-fitted oarlock pads that actually complement your boat's craftsmanship. You'll learn: ? How to measure, shape, and install custom oarlock pads ? Tips for proper placement and spacing relative to thwarts ? Techniques for shaping curves, scalloping, and mounting cleanly ? Why epoxy selection matters (shoutout to West System G/Flex 650!) ? Pro tricks for avoiding epoxy messes and achieving a snug, solid fit Whether you're building a skiff, a dinghy, or just upgrading a tired old rowing setup, these tips will elevate your work. ? SUPPORT THIS CHANNEL If this helped you, show some love! ? Like ? Comment ? Subscribe + turn on notifications ? Super Thanks or join me on Patreon ? [https://www.patreon.com/nomadboatbuilding] Or make a one time donation: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/nomadboatbuilding ? Have questions about fitting oarlocks or other boat details? Drop them below and I'll get back to you. ? Related Videos & Resources: ?? [https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnOoJJKdbR4IM7XiUmk1SdHrrYZxQDUzd] ? [https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnOoJJKdbR4JII3fQAfSPVZ4lF_nH4MG8] Thanks again to West System Epoxy for sponsoring this build. Their reliable adhesives have supported wooden boatbuilders like me for over 50 years. https://www.westsystem.com/ Nomad Boat Building - helping you craft better boats, one detail at a time. https://www.nomadboatbuilding.com #BoatBuilding #DIYBoat #Woodworking #NomadBoatBuilding #WestSystemEpoxy #Oarlocks #Rowboat #WoodenBoat #EpoxyTips #BlackLocust #SkiffBuild #MarineWoodworking 00:00 - Intro: Ugly Oarlock Pads? Not on My Boat 00:27m - Marking the Ideal Oarlock Position 01:47 - Detailing Placement 03:19 - Cutting and Shaping the Pad 05:49 - Scalloping and Smoothing the Edges 07:02 - Positioning & Angling for Final Fit 08:36 - Fitting the Socket 14:13 - Prepping for Epoxy: Clean & Tape 16:12 - Mixing G/flex Epoxy for Bonding 19:02 - Gluing and Clamping in Place 22:19 - Drilling the Center Hole Accurately 23:03 - Wrap Up and Final Look with Finish 25:21 - West System Sponsor Shout out and outro
