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.



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💬 Have questions about fitting oarlocks or other boat details? Drop them below and I’ll get back to you.

🔗 Related Videos & Resources:
🛠️ [   • Building Gannet - Learn the basics  ]
🪚 [   • Shop tools  ]

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