PocketShip.net

OK, I have the bottom and sides attached, got #4 floor to align with keel, sides, bottom skins and cradle. Now trying to get the cradle to align with everything at bulkhead 7 and off by about 3/4". Trying to figure out how to get it all to align and just don't see how with proper dimensions for the cradle parts. How critical is it to have the aft cradle component attached to #7, the floor and sides? Can I just forget worrying about the cradle on the aft end and get on with it?
Anyone else have problems with this effort? I have measured 3 times but not sure it's worth worrying about. Otherwise I will maybe remove the 2 cradle connecting members and shorten 3/4 inch before trying again.
All suggestions welcome.
Mike

Just found a June 2016 post that showed me about some others that did not attach the cradle to bulkhead 7. So I am going ahead without doing it as well. Saves me a lot of work I think.
Thanks all for your past posts. Sure makes this build much more clear.
Mike

Hi Mike.

I have had exactly the same problem. In my opinion the build cradle is insufficiently stable or robust to assume it will interact accurately with the hull. It's made of MDF, which is not rigid or stable. And the two sides of the cradle are joined with whatever timber you have available, so it's not dimensionally reliable. My advice is don't worry about the cradle - fasten your floors and bulkheads where you know they should be. That's what I have done!

Steve

Perfect.
Thanks Steve

Mike,
I agree with Steve. Line up the side pieces and bulkheads where they should go. If you need to drill extra holes to tie to the cradle then do so. They can always be filled with epoxy and your entire outside will be covered with fiberglass.

Thanks