JEM Watercraft

Thanks everyone.

I am sure the crack started while the boat was loaded on the "trailer". This was just a rig of two 16" bicycle wheels connected by tubing, which was wrapped in foam. The boat was loaded very heavily.

I won't be using that trailer again because I lost it on the rapids the first day on the Mississippi.

However, I didn't notice any flooding until later, on Lake Winnibigoshish. I was paddling cross-wind most of the day, taking the waves broadside, and I believe the flexing caused by these waves contributed to the length of the crack, but it could be I just didn't take notice before that.

Kevin wrote:
I won't be using that trailer again because I lost it on the rapids the first day on the Mississippi.

Well that's one way of getting rid of it!

Kevin...

You verified what I was thinking.

My bet was the crack started on the boat when being trailer , loaded with all the gear. The weight was not evenly supported , as it would of been in the water. Caused a stress crack and then as you paddled the canoe , the crack ( the weakest link in the chain , so to speak ) managed to enlarge itself by flexing with the waves and caused the problem you have.
The rapids ( white water) would of helped in the process of enlarging the crack. White Water can twist a canoe and bend it to a degree , especially is there is a weaknest ( a crack) in the canoe

Even having the crack happen I would say it is a very strong canoe and you did a fine job of making it for the trip , a lesser craft would of snapped in half.
I'm sure some of mine would if they were fully loaded and trailered like that since I use really thin wood and glass. I don't put anything in them till they are in the water so the water helps to support the weight ( the gear and myself ) I add to the canoe. Plus they do not visit any rapinds , not anymore. One time was plenty for me.

Chuck.

it is a very strong canoe and you did a fine job of making it for the trip

Yep, too strong, maybe. It is very heavy to carry just by itself on these portages, without my wheels!

"ASK & YOU WILL RECIEVE"
Not sure if you're near any people, but if you can talk to someone and explain what you're doing, I'm confident you'll find someone willing to help you out with either getting the materials you need or giving you the materials outright.
People are fascinated with hand-built watercraft, especially in Minnesota.
Have faith in your fellow man and explain your plight.

Godspeed to you if you're still in the upper reaches of the "Mighty" at the end of October.

Lee

I'd go with what Lee said. I would even bet you could run across a ride now and then when on dry land. Luck.

Joe W.