In a message dated 04/03/03 11:53:51 AM, brian_trout@hotmail.com writes: << Do you think it's really necessary to dowel the block to the >stretcher? Is the joint under severe enough stress that glue alone wouldn't >suffice? >> Brian; I'm coming in late to this discussion and must admit that I don't know who has said what, or why...but If you go to the trouble of fitting block to plate flange and stretcher....... a few dowels are not that much more trouble. The benfit is a much more reliable glue joint between block and stretcher. Most stretchers have a veneer liner between the stretcher core and the block soooo when you just glue to the stretcher you are really gluing to the veneer and trusting on the veneer/core bond for strength. Doweling gives you a firm connection independent of the veneer/core bond and adds to the strength of the joint. As for whether or not the block/stretcher adds any "strength"/stability ....yes it definitely does......... as the sum is greater than the individual parts...... My view. Jim Bryant (FL)
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