Accuracy question

[Noklin]

I am cutting out the hull panels for a CS20. This is my first boat project, as I am sure comes as no surprise to the experienced builders that post here.

One of the hull bottom panels is identical to the plan measurements, at least as close as I can measure.

When stacked on top of each other, the other hull bottom panel is 1/16 off on one of the forward chine measurement. This is not just a small dip, but is a slight difference in the curve over about a 4 foot length. The area is the

[Designer]

It is almost impossible to build to tighter tolerances than 1/6". I would match the panels to go for symmetry rather than one correct side and one a little off. The area that you mention is not as critical as the keel centerline because that curve defines the rocker. If the botton chineline forward is slightly finer it will just cause the sides in that part of the boat to have a tiny bit more flair.

After matching both bottom panels just make sure that the chine line is smooth and fair.

[JeffM]

1/16"!!! Gosh, I wish I could get that close -- and then still worry about it! For my part, I'm still finding little (and some not so little) asymetries in my hull. Even so, she floats, handles beautifully, and goes fast!

[Noklin]

Thanks for the info.

As a first time builder, I am not sure what may cause an adverse impact on the looks and performance of the boat. That's partly why I ask so many dumb sounding questions.

Of course, my wife has always accused me of spending too much time trying to get stuff perfect. When I tell her that a project will only take 1 hour, she knows that it will actually be 4 hours or more. That's one of the hazards of working in the nuclear power plants for over 20 years, they expect everything to be done right the first time.

[Dale Niemann]

Please don't hesitate to ask questions. We all had the same or similar questions. Hopefully, someone on the forum will be able to help you.

[john_manchester]

I feel your pain, brother. I got some good advice from a friend, which has helped me a lot. Maybe you will find it useful:

Rebuilding an engine: to the nearest 1/1000"

Making furniture: to the nearest 1/64"

Building a boat: to the nearest boat.

[Noklin]

I like it, that's good.

[Howard]

Then there is "measure with a micrometer, mark it with a yardstick and cut it with a chainsaw".

I once lived across the street from an engineer who was helping build a nuclear reactor. One weekend he lined his driveway with used railroad ties. You could have gotten them lined up better dropping them from an airplane. Since then, I have never felt too comfortable around that reactor.