How To Remove Cane From Canoe Seat?

To replace an old canoe seat, follow these steps:

1. Remove the old caning material by using pliers to remove staples or pegs that secure the caning material to the frame. Gently pull out the old caning material without damaging the seat frame. Use sandpaper or a sanding block to smooth out any remaining glue or residue on the seat frame.

2. Clean the old cane and spline out of the seat carefully. Place the cane and spline in water to soak for a couple of minutes. The cane needs to soak for only a couple of minutes, while the spline should be removed.

3. Install a new center seat a few inches ahead of and on the old seat. Cut out the sheet cane from the center of the chair using scissors, a box cutter, or a SKIL 2354-12 iXO Power Screwdriver With Cutter Attachment.

4. Remove the old seat frame and all materials. You can find materials to repair the seat for about half the price of a new seat.

5. Soak the seat in warm water to soften the old glue. The spline will come right out. Trim the spline and the edge of the cane with a sharp chisel instead of a utility knife.

6. Remove the seat from the canoe using a Phillips screwdriver and a 3/8 wrench. Shears are used as a fulcrum for prying with the old cane.

7. Clean the old cane and spline out of the seat carefully. Place the cane and spline in water to soak. Place a block of wood in the center of the seat.

Note that once the webbing or cane is removed from the seat frame, it is not uncommon for the glue to have dried out and the joint to be loose.