There are liquid epoxy materials designed to preserve bad wood. That wood looks seriously rotted. I suppose it was that way when you started with it right? If it is decaying worse lately it might have termites in it.

Cool looking boat. Cool story.

Good luck with it.

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[SIGPIC] Diesel loving autocrossing grandpa Architect. 08 Dodge 3/4 ton with Cummins & six speed; I have had about 35 benzes. I have a 39 Studebaker Coupe Express pickup in which I have had installed a 617 turbo and a five speed manual.[SIGPIC]

..I also have a 427 Cobra replica with an aluminum chassis.