Wooden Oar Lock Base – 240 x 90 mm (Mounting Block)

This wooden oar lock base (240 x 90 mm) is designed to provide a strong mounting point for your wooden oar pin and oar. The base is a flat rectangular hardwood block with a factory-drilled center hole through which the pin is inserted. Its 24 x 9 cm size spreads the load over a larger area of the boat’s gunwale, preventing damage or cracking of the boat under heavy rowing. The timber used for the base is selected for marine use – it resists saltwater and is treated to guard against rot, mold, and marine borers.

Compatibility & Installation: The hole in the center of the base is sized to fit the wooden oar pin (code 01128) snugly, ensuring a tight, wobble-free fit. For installation, the base can be mounted horizontally on the gunwale top or vertically on the inside of the hull, depending on your boat’s design and your preference. It’s recommended to use stainless steel screws or bolts for fastening, to avoid hardware corrosion and ensure long-term strength. The extended 240 mm length provides space for at least four fastening points (two on each side of the central hole), allowing you to secure the base evenly and firmly to the boat’s structure.

Advantages of the Wooden Base:

• Quiet Operation: In combination with the wooden pin, the entire oarlock system remains metal-free – meaning no clanking or grinding of metal on metal as you row. The boat moves almost silently, creating a pleasant experience and an advantage for activities like fishing or wildlife observation where minimal noise is desired.
• Aesthetic Appeal: The wooden base contributes to a classic look. It can be varnished or painted to match the rest of the boat. Many traditional boat owners prefer wooden fittings like this to maintain the authentic style of their vessel.
• Compatibility with Other Systems: Although the base is designed for use with a wooden pin, it can also accommodate other types of oarlocks (e.g., a metal rowlock with a 16mm pin) if they fit the hole. This provides some flexibility – you could temporarily use a different style oarlock in the same base if needed.
• Repairability: The wooden block is easy to work with – if over time it gets dinged or worn, the surface can be sanded and re-varnished. If the hole enlarges from wear, you can insert a wooden bushing or add a metal ring (a traditional method) to restore a tight fit. In case of serious damage, the base itself is an affordable part to replace, since it’s a separate component.
• Usage Recommendations: This wooden base is suitable for boats around 3–6 meters in length where oars are a primary or auxiliary means of propulsion. For optimal strength, mount the base where the gunwale or side has sufficient thickness or reinforcement (for example, near a frame or rib under the mounting area). After installation, ensure the pin stands upright and secure – this will guarantee effective rowing and even load distribution on the base.