Adding the Spray Rails
(one year into this project)
The spray rails also double as stringers for the side panels, and so I chose to use solid mahogany for extra strength rather than use left over plywood scraps. These will be topped with 3/4" UHMW as rub strips after the hull is upright and painted. (next year?)
To pull the front section down tight to the bow, I lashed the extra length down to the corner of the jig while the epoxy set. It is also clamped in place with fender washers and sheet rock screws.
I have deviated from Renn Tolman's design by adding a 1"x1/4" mahogany keelson strip which in turn will be covered by a 1' x 3/4" UHMW rub strip. The hull was leveled and faired to accommodate this strip, and then the strip and the hull will be faired with a fillet.
My intention is to have a sacrificial zone in which to attach the UHMW with screws and bedding compound. If (when) I take a hit, I hope to limit damage this area and keep moisture from intruding via the screws securing the rub strip. At least that's my Working Theory.
