17-08-2019, 09:29 PM
Having spent the last couple of days hiding in a hole in the ground, I'd missed out on this thread!
We have a number of schemes in the pipeline as alternatives to the endless Ulsteroids. As and when we have time, a hardtop sports coupe is number one on the list. A woody is probably next (with hearse option, of course!).
Personally, I think that ash is eminently suitable. As has been mentioned, it was used for external framing on Morris Minors and others. Regular varnishing may be the problem, not the solution. It will trap any moisture in the timber and accelerate decay. If using ash externally, we would pickle it in a solvent-based preservative before assembly.
I worry about tropical hardwoods. "Ethical" and "sustainable" issues loom large, but many woods are very hard and lack the necessary flexibility for car body work.
We have a number of schemes in the pipeline as alternatives to the endless Ulsteroids. As and when we have time, a hardtop sports coupe is number one on the list. A woody is probably next (with hearse option, of course!).
Personally, I think that ash is eminently suitable. As has been mentioned, it was used for external framing on Morris Minors and others. Regular varnishing may be the problem, not the solution. It will trap any moisture in the timber and accelerate decay. If using ash externally, we would pickle it in a solvent-based preservative before assembly.
I worry about tropical hardwoods. "Ethical" and "sustainable" issues loom large, but many woods are very hard and lack the necessary flexibility for car body work.