P R O V E E
16
Bottom Sheeting
Use the angle on the bulkheads to determine the
angle that you hold the sanding block.
Use fresh 80 grit on your sanding block.
This is one of the most critical parts of assembly, as
it sets the shape of the bottom. DO NOT over sand
the chines.
Take your time and sand until the side sheeting is
just flush and no more.
You cannot do this with any kind of power tool.
Match the angle of the bulkheads. Also,
lightly
sand half of the keel at the same time, so that the
bottom sheet lays flat on the structure. Do not
change the shape of the keel, just match the angle.
The keel will have a slight “V” shape when you are
done.
Be very careful not to sand the keel too much,
or the bottom will not fit!
Make a mark in the exact center of bulkheads 4 and
5. Make this mark on the edge, so that you know
how far to glue the sheeting.
Note that the bottom sheets have the position of the
strakes marked on one side. This side must face
outside the hull.
Test fit the bottom sheeting in place. It should cover
exactly half of the keel. Also, sand a gradually
increasing bevel on the inside (center) edge, so that
both bottom sheets will meet squarely.
Make sure the front is accurately aligned with the
center of the keel and that there is some overlap at
the rear.
When satisfied with the fit, make an alignment mark
on the bottom sheeting and the keel.
Mix up some 30 minute epoxy.
Using a small stick or acid brush, coat the chines
and bulkheads where the bottom sheeting will
contact. Work quickly.
