Gentlemen,
I am just getting ready to build new DD. It will be probably DD 46, original.

I like the original designs. They are simpler and have a little less vanity then those that evolved from them.

According to the George Buehler philosophy she will be built almost in the back yard by my friend, a very skilful builder, who spent years working with a wood genius, Wayne Shibley. Please, see below:

http://www.wood-boats.com/index.html

I am afraid I might be bothering you for some advices but besides some experience in cruising (many years on Colvin’s Gazelle) I have no experience in building.

She will be built in steel, but of course. I have many concerns. He first of them is about the bow thruster. How to avoid rusting and fouling of the tube? How to protect the tube from outside and inside against rust? Any danger about leaks? Maybe the tube should be made of copper nickel? Is it possible to weld steel and copper nickel together? Or maybe I am just being over concerned?

Would it be too much trouble if I ask you for advice once in a while?

Thanks in advance.
ww

Welcome, ww!

We wil probably be asking your advice, as you will be actually doing something! Most of us are still in the planning and dreaming stage. Of course, this is a good place for questions and advice.

As for the bow thruster tube, I probably would not worry about it too much. Start with an appropriate thickness, prepare the steel and paint with a good system and you should be okay.

Again, welcome!

John