wiring the boat

[John155]

My boat is starting to look like a boat. right now it reminds my of one of those HUNTER sailboats without a transom.

I have 2 questions - Is the rocker at the forward bulkhead and aft bulkhead, measured from the level of the temp frame, around 2 3/8 - 2 1/12 inches?

Second, I have gaps on both sides forward of the forward bulkhead of about 1/8 to 3/16 in. for about 22 in. in length. I can't stick 1/4 in. ply into the gap. Is this acceptable and can the gaps be filled with thickened epoxy and glassed or is there something else I should do to fix the gaps.

[PeterP]

John,

I am not too clear about the rocker question. As for the second part I am presuming that you forced the bulkhead into the boat and wired seam opened up ( Topside&bottom)? If this is the case then you could try and shave the bulkhead. Also, temporary blocks fastened to the outside on either side of the crack to allow additional clamping pressure. The reason I am not advocating more wire is because you want to heal the crack and get some glass on it right away. All that extra wire just ends up in the way. Finally, 1/8" gap really isn't such a big deal in itself although 22'' sounds a little too much especially in the bow. PeterP

[Designer]

It is okay to just fill the gap with thickened epoxy as it is well within tolerances. As Peter said, I will adjust the fit on the forward bulkhead to reduce any gap until the the deck curve on the bulkhead lines up with the sides and I fill the rest.

If I understand your description of the rocker, your boat has slightly more than "as drawn" but it is within normal tolerances.