Fairing and Squaring

Once the chine logs had cured, I began the whole faring process which I found rather enjoyable. As far as sanding goes, it is quite pleasant and almost like hand planing a piece of lumber.It's pretty much the opposite side of the sanding spectrum from, say, sanding drywall. The longboard really helps too. While it would be a really easy thing to make a longboard, I bought one because I like the 3M hook-it idea - I've pretty much gone this route with all my implements of sanding destruction (except for the belt sander of course).

Following the faring , I started to check if the hull was anywhere near square. As the old saying goes, you win some, you lose some... While the chine business did not play out as good as possible, the Karma machine decided to (in return) to wipe my tears away with its big forgiving apron (this in the form of a perfectly square hull). It was so hard to believe, I measured it 4 more times, in about three different ways. Yes indeedie, even blind squirrels find nuts.

The last chore before putting the bottom on was to fit the floor pieces. I figured it would be easier while the bottom was off - especially considering the latches I decided to use. I'm giving these stud latches with the spring loaded ball bearing a go - floor just snaps into place. Only question is, how well do these things hold up (especially for the price)? - only time will tell (if not, its barrel bolts for me). Below is the upside down boat with floor pieces in place. The stud latch is pictured on the bottom picture- used 3-4 of them per floor section.

So, now its on to the bottom...

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Comment by John Greenleaf on May 10, 2010 at 6:43am
Thanks all! I'm enjoying the building and all the feedback.
The latches work awsome - floors just pop in and out (and you certainly can't go wrong with the name). This is my theory; the boat is considered a "she" but apparently the hardware, latches, seats, and (undoubtedly) the dead-weight we call the anchor are all masculine in nature.

However...we shall see (and I will keep you all posted) how they turn out long term. I think the spring-loaded ball bearing business is a bit too many moving parts and will eventually be the "weak" link. They are stainless, but of what flavor; who knows? I can tell you, this boat will see some limited saltwater action (~2 weeks worth per year) and that should be a good test. (IMO) two weeks in the salt is like 2 years in freshwater for anything metal and/or mechanical.

As far as getting out - I've snuck out for a few small gigs, but nothing substantial either in terms of boating or fishing. Its killing me. While, I don't want the building fun to stop, I am ready to have my free time back.

This is the plan: A bunch of us from around the country (called the dum dums) get together and do a couple days of floating & camping on the upper Delaware for the memorial day holiday and the shad run. I hope to have the boat ready for that (it will be tight, but do-able). The only good news is - I start to get some of my life back today (at 4pm) - Alls I have to do is give and grade a final exam for a bunch of sophomore engineers..then it's boat, boat, boat, boat, boat. A guy's got to have his priorities dangit!
Comment by Greg Hatten on May 9, 2010 at 8:46pm
I just like the sound of "stud latches"... I have to find an application for my boat so I can point them out to my bad ass fly fishing buddies. Your boat is looking great John and I am really enjoying your commentary. Please keep it up. I miss the smell of freshly sanded cedar....
GH
Comment by Kelly Neu on May 9, 2010 at 7:32pm
I was checking out those stud latches at the last trip to Fisheries Supply... look pretty sweet. Can't wait to hear how they work for ya. Your boat is looking good! Have ya been out yet this season?

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