Grande Dame’s toerail has a “cap” that covers the channel in the toerail. They are long sections of extruded PVC.
The first picture is in plan (ignore all the wood shavings and dirt please) showing the white cap. Note that the parts near the port and starboard gates are metallic, probably aluminum.
The second, fuzzy picture shows a cross-section.
Before I (perhaps destructively) remove the caps to address some leaks, can anybody tell me 1) if they also have any experience or knowledge of them and/or 2) where they’re sourced.
I think @mikequill might be able to tell you who the original supplier was.
However, I’m pretty sure you can find a suitable replacement by searching the web with the string, “rub rail inserts”. The manufacturers I’d check first among what popped up when I did that were:
Yes I had them manufactured years ago ( the vinyl inserts). The company that made them for me went out of business and all my dies went to scrap. I get inquiries may be once every 10 years.
I like the idea of Taco Marine and their variety. A little measuring and research might provide a suitable alternative.
I have heard of folks using the correct size of grey backer rod (1/2 inch if memory serves) This material can be found on Amazon . Cheap, flexible, reusable and does not absorb water.
If people go for backer rods, as opposed to products like Taco’s or Wilks’, I’d suggest looking for closed-cell backer rods. The alternative materials are either squishier or let water pass through.
I forgot to mention that Wilks is now owned by Flexiteek, which has a wider range of distributors, including some in Canada.
