The Epiphany

[bob smith]

Neel,
I've attached a crude sketch but here's the description:
The transition/attachment was accomplished by screwing and gluing a new plywood floor to new main stringers, then bedding a new mahogany chine log inside the remaining FG sides (about 2"). A 1/2" x 1/2" Mahogany piece was added to the outside at the chine for the bottom of the 2 layers of cold-molded okume to rest on (covering the edge of the plies). Every piece up to this point is epoxied, screwed and where not screwed through the FG to wood behind, nailed w/ bronze boat nails dripping with epoxy! The result is a laminated structure with the old FG hull "sandwiched" between layers. The floor, motor stringers and frames become a monolithic structure with the cold-molded skin. the 1/4" x 6" planking was epoxied with pin nails driven through scrap to hold while curing.
The biggies I need to do now are getting the seats out of my head and into the boat and laying on umpteen coats of varnish. I should be ready for an early spring!
Merry Christmas to all,
Bob Smith
Chester, SC

[areame]

Nice work! I feel bad you had to chop up the Century, but it's going to be something amazing when its finished. Really cool!

[neel thompson]

Thanks for the explanation and drawing Bob. It makes a lot more sense to me now. Any chance she could make her way to the September Gathering in Tennessee?? Many of us would love to see your fine workmanship first hand. Neel

[bob smith]

We are planning to be at the Gathering. We made the 2008 Gathering and caught the "fever".
Happy New Year!
Bob Smith
Chester, SC

[mrintense]

This is looking great Bob. Now what we really need is a shot from a bit further back so we can see the entire boat. This is another of those projects that simply amaze me. I get a alll twisted in knots when I have to make slight deviations from the plans. Here you are practically building a completely different design. Can't wait to see the finished product.

[bob smith]

We're wired! Gauges, blower(s), bilge pump, nav. lights, ignition, starter. I added LED indicator lights for each accessory. All I need now is an interior and 5/6 coats of varnish!
Bob Smith
Chester, SC

[garrech]

Wow, great idea!

[bob smith]

Seat frames done....Trying to decide on upholstery color.
I have to design/make control console and interior panels.
Lots of little projects to finish.
Will start finish varnish coats as soon as it's warmer.
She will "splash' this spring!!!
Bob Smith
Chester, SC

[jeffh]

I'm glad to see this project is nearing completion. I've told several people about it. If you bring her to any of the Blue Ridge ACBS events, let us know. I'll be at Lake Chatuge. BTW, did you ever come up with a name?

[bob smith]

In a stunning moment of brilliance, diplomacy and dumb luck I decided to name her after my lovely and patient wife.
I cut out the "CENTURY" from the transom vent and replaced it with a piece of laser engraved mahogany. ($15 at the local trophy store).
I'll try to get her to one of the events (for sure the one at Lake Sinclair and the Gathering).
Thanks for your interest.
Bob Smith
Chester, SC

PS: The pic is of the nameplate just stuck on. It's not finished yet.

[bob smith]

Update:
Early this morning I put the (hopefully) last coat of varnish on the Linda Anne. I can't wait to start putting on the bling.
Pictures when she's dressed.
Bob Smith
Chester, SC

[BayouBengal]

Can't wait. Post some now and more after the bling.

[bob smith]

She got her bottom wet!
Bob Smith
Chester, SC

[vupilot]

WOW! Such a stunning boat you have created! The sleek windshield really adds a lot to the style. Simply amazing, I could look at that all day.

[mrintense]

Stunning, Outstanding. Bob, that is the coolest thing. Very very nice work. Congratulations on a job well done. Now you get to enjoy the fruits of your labors.