PocketShip.net

Hi all. I have just finished wiring in the side and bottom panels and there is a very narrow gap about 24" long at the bow on each side between the panels. Everything is fitted correctly and I can't see how it is possible to get the panels to fully join up without taking a block plane to them, which I am certainly not going to do!

The photos in the manual seem to show a similar gap but they are so grainy it's hard to be sure.

Have other builders experienced this? Is it simply a 'feature' of the build?

Many thanks.

Steve

Hi Steve,

Can you add a photo (maybe with a ruler in the image so we see the width of the gap you're concerned about)? I know many builders have brought gaps together with gradual tightening of stitches, perhaps adding an extra stitch or two, and sometimes with the application of towels soaked in hot water to encourage the wood to accept the desired shape.

All the best,
Mark

Thanks Mark. I can't figure how to add a photo?

Hi Steve,

Here is the PS forum post thread addressing how to add photos to one's uploaded message:

viewtopic.php?f=3&t=2

Looking forward to seeing more information about your issue,
Mark

Steve,
You can post a picture on your blog if you can’t do here.

If I am following you, I had a similar problem. Look at my post for August 2016. I used some clamps and ratchet straps to pull the side panels together. Be very careful not to put too much pressure on them. Wood will break!

http://ronspocketshipbuild.blogspot.com ... uning.html

If the gap is not too big, you can fill with epoxy. The inside will get fillets and the outside will be covered with fiberglass.

Thanks

Thanks Ron. From the photos on your blog I can see that you had the very same problem. Your bow looks very neat and tidy after tuning - I will use the clamp and blocks method.

Also thanks to Mark.

Steve

I should add I also had some very good advice from Tassie Pete via email. Thanks Pete.

Gap successfully closed. Thank you for the excellent advice.