Mike, we don't soak in oil, just plain water. After about a 5 day soak the wood is pliable enough for most bends, anything that is in need of more is steamed on the boat or we use the boiling water and towel technique. We don't usually mount the new rails with screws at this time, we clamp and allow to dry, then remove and varnish the side to go against the hull, then re-clamp and screw at that time. Once you have all the screws in. Usually the whole rail has been varnished at this point, so just pull the screws every other and finish the holes. I usually use a tapered #7 bit (for #8 screw), with countersink and collar set up from Lee Valley.
I've hear of people soaking in kerosene, but I don't want a shop full of that. So if you go that route, do it outside away from open flame and sparks.
I've hear of people soaking in kerosene, but I don't want a shop full of that. So if you go that route, do it outside away from open flame and sparks.
