The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Cross-spale \Cross"-spale`\ (-sp?l`), Cross-spall
\Cross"-spall`\ (-sp?l`), n. [See Spale & Spall.]
   (Shipbuilding)
   One of the temporary wooden braces, placed horizontally
   across a frame to hold it in position until the deck beams
   are in; a cross-pawl.
   [1913 Webster]