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In order for the bottom panels to be of any use the stringers and frames had to be notched. Here is the notch for the C frame. On the stringers the notch is 3/8" wide and typically 3" deep. The G frame notch has been cut.
Notching of the frames is 3/4" wide and the depth is the stringer height at that frame minus 3". The first stringer is installed. A few more stringers are installed. This straightens, aligns and provides rigidity for the frames on the strongback.
Side view of the stringers installed. The bottom panels have been put up on top of the structure. I aligned panels against the transom and to follow the centerline. I was impressed with the precision of which the panel edges matched up with the chines.
A view from the stern to the bow of the bottom panel stitching. View of the bow during stitching. Notice that I decided to fiberglass the outside seams of the hull bottom, they were just too flimsy. Stitching of the bow getting much closer now. This would have been much easier with an extra arm.
The most effective method was to push the panels down with my hands and then pull the ties with my teeth. This would pull and lock the panels in enough position to do the rest by hand. Oh so very close now. I'm leaving a 3/8" space as required to form a round bow. A view of the bow all stitched up. I was worried about the bottom panels not touching the chines near the front of the boat but after stitching all the way up it has automatically pushed down and the shape looks absolutely perfect.
One of the lower side panels being fiberglass spliced. These are about 3 sheets of plywood long. A lower side panel after being installed and loosely stitched up to the bow. The first lower side panel completed up to the bow.
Stitching the final lower side panel. I did the initial stitching of it upside down lined up with the hull bottom. This would allow me, alone, to flip this relatively flimsy (very long) panel. The side panel is now flipped over and is hanging by the stitches. More stitches are added and tightened drawing the lower side panel to the hull bottom and to the frames.
Stitching of both lower side panels is now completed up to the bow but we must stitch the seam of the two side panels together next. The side panels will be drawn together and spaced 3/8" with stitching. Now the side panels are stitched together and are secured and the shape of the hull is obvious.
The transom is shown here with the bottom panels and side panels installed. The fit is nearly perfect. The bow after all stitching is completed for the bottom and side panels. I used C-clamps to attach notched scrap wood to hold the upper side panels in place.
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