PVC Thwart and Combing

I got an email today asking for Thwart and Combing parts and realized the only info for that stuff was on the old forum. So, here is an updated post.

I started making these parts back around 2015. The first sets were cut with a jigsaw and then Andrew Jerman tutored me in the skills of using a template and a router table. After building a router table, the quality increased.....

I've installed the PVC parts on 3 or 4 boats personally and sold 10-15 sets (I should keep better records.) The thwart ships as two pieces and should be glued before installation. I like to use PVC primer first and then usually whatever epoxy I have around the shop. But, most any adhesive will work. JB Weld, Gorilla Glue, etc.

The parts set is $75 plus shipping. The shipping is from Anderson SC via UPS. The box is 8# and measures 25x19x7. So far shipping has run from $16 to $40. The $40 was shipping to Utah.

If you have installed these on your boat, please post a picture and comment about your install. I have posted a few pictures I found in my library with this post.

Early on I found the Thwart needed some sanding and adjusting to mate up cleanly. I adjusted the template and that process is much better now. One install I did on combing I was trying to minimize the number of holes in the boat and I didn't screw down the outboard ends. In a couple years, those ends have warped up a little. I through screwed, fender washered and locknutted the cleats. The combing isn't going anywhere, just doesn't look neat. Reaching that far to through screw would have been challenging with my 4" inspection port. Next project will probably use twin 6" ports at the front of the cockpit so I can reach all of the combing and upgrade the front thwart connection. In the old AMF boats, that wood likes to rot over time and I replace it with a block of PVC lumber and of course through screw, fender washer and locknut.

Happy sailing and happy Force 5 repairs and upgrades.

Brian Hampton