Keeping the bottom of your Baby Gar boat in good condition is essential for maintaining its structural integrity and preventing leakage. Over time, the bottom wood can become dried out, cracked, or damaged from repeated water exposure. Annual maintenance helps prevent more extensive repairs down the road.

We recommend hauling out your boat each year to thoroughly inspect the bottom for any cracked seams, splintering, or soft spots. Sand down any damaged areas and reseal with caulking or wood epoxy as needed. Apply a fresh coat of bottom paint to protect the wood from water saturation. Using an anti-fouling paint with biocide additives can also help prevent marine growth buildup.

During the in-season months, monitor your boat bottom closely for any developing leaks or damage. Small problems are much easier to address before they worsen into major restoration projects. Keeping the bilge drained after each use and the boat properly covered and supported on its trailer will also help preserve the bottom wood.

Over years of use, the planking on the sides of a Baby Gar boat can suffer decay from moisture exposure. Replacing deteriorated planks is crucial for maintaining structural integrity. Our skilled boatwrights use traditional techniques to replace damaged planks with new wood pieces.

We begin by carefully removing the affected planks, taking note of their grain patterns, dimensions, and placement. We then mill premium replacement boards to match the original wood as closely as possible. The new boards are custom fit into place and screwed into the boat’s framework using silicon bronze fasteners. Care is taken to perfectly align the grain direction of each new plank.

Once the new boards are secured, we seal the seams with caulking and smooth any uneven edges. The final step is applying several coats of varnish to provide a protective finish and showcase the fine woodgrain. With proper side plank replacement, your Baby Gar boat can cruise the lake for decades to come.

Applying a fresh coat of paint can revive an aging Baby Gar boat, but careful surface preparation is key. We start by thoroughly cleaning the hull to remove any dirt, oil residue, or flaking paint. A detergent wash followed by light sanding ensures the new paint will adhere properly.

Any superficial cracks, holes, or defects in the wood are filled, smoothed, and spot primed. We pay special attention to high-wear areas like the keel, chines, splash rails, and bow stem for signs of deeper damage in need of repair prior to painting. Once the hull surface is uniformly smooth, a primer coat is rolled on to seal the wood grain.

After allowing the primer to fully cure, we apply the finish paint using high-quality marine enamels in your choice of classic Baby Gar colors. Multiple thin coats are applied for maximum durability and a showroom-quality glossy finish that gleams on the water.

In addition to structural repairs and paintwork, comprehensive detailing services are recommended annually to keep your Baby Gar boat looking its best. Thorough cleaning removes grime that can be abrasive to the antique wood over time.

Our detailing process starts with a gentle wash using a boat soap solution to lift dirt from the surface without stripping oils from the wood grain. A clay bar is then used to safely remove embedded contaminants without scratching the finish. The hull is hand polished using a marine-grade wax containing UV inhibitors, leaving a smooth protective coat and brilliant shine.

The deck and interior receive special attention, with any upholstery or canvas meticulously cleaned. We carefully oil, seal, or varnish the mahogany brightwork to prevent drying and keep the rich wood glow. Our meticulous detailing services help keep your Baby Gar boat’s antique surfaces pristine while preserving its delicate finishes.

Varnish protects Baby Gar boat wood from sun damage and water saturation that can cause cracking, discoloration, and decay over time. It seals the porous grain to prevent moisture intrusion while allowing the natural beauty of the wood to shine through.

We recommend reapplying varnish every 1-2 years to maintain adequate protection, especially for boats that receive heavy use. Allowing the varnish to wear too thin exposes the wood to elements that accelerate deterioration. Signs that it’s time for a refresh include dull or patchy areas, yellowing, white blush, and loss of glossy sheen.

Our varnish renewal process begins by lightly sanding the surface to remove the top layer of old varnish and properly adhere the new coat. After carefully cleaning away dust, we apply several thin layers of premium marine-grade varnish, allowing full drying between each. In addition to defending wood integrity, the fresh varnish restores the like-new warm glow and deepens the rich woodgrain beauty inherent to Baby Gar boats.

Owning a vintage wooden boat like the iconic Baby Gar model brings immense pride and joy. But with the pleasure of cruising these antique crafts comes responsibility for stewardship and diligent caretaking.

At Tahoe Runabout Co., our crew of experienced wooden boat artisans cherishes the opportunity to work on these rare classics. Over decades of restoration expertise, we have developed specialized techniques tailored to meet the unique needs of Baby Gar boats. Whether addressing structural repairs, aesthetic refreshes, or preventative maintenance, our goal is always to safely extend the functional lifespan while preserving the irreplaceable craftsmanship and charm of these special boats.

We understand how much your Baby Gar means to you and your family. Each boat carries memories and a rich history we aim to honor through our meticulous work. No job leaves our shop until it meets our highest standards for seamlessly blending vintage character with modern protection to keep your boat gracing Tahoe’s pristine waters for generations of enjoyment yet to come.