The bottom panels are stitched together using bailing wire. As the stitches move towards the front, the bow begins to take shape. Once the shape is established, the keel or fairbody, is filled with a mixture of epoxy and microfibers to lock in the shape and then laminated with two layers of 10 oz fiberglass tape.
A four inch chine-flat was added to the Jumbo hull that was not on the standard. This chine-flat is designed to knock spray down and stablize the hull while drifting. It also helps to get the hull up on plane quicker. The aft portion was installed using a spline joint while the curved portion was stitched and glued. It was then covered with biaxial tape and fiberglass cloth to produce a very strong joint.
The Building Jig Is Set Up and Framing Installed
The bottom is moved off the building jig so the molds that support the shelves can be installed. Once centered and leveled the shelves are clamped down to begin the assembly process.
The shelves are installed on the molds
The bow stem and transom were installed in preparation for mounting the bottom. The “horse” you see in the middle is for the stringers to rest on while they are being attached to the bottom. It is critical to keep everything level, straight and equidistant from the centerline. This insures a straight and true running hull. Like most projects, set up is key.