My name: Rolando Perez
City/State/Country: Paranaque City, Metro Manila, Philippines 2-17-03 Project status: Done frames no. 2, 4, 5 1/2, breasthook, stem, transom knee
Subject: Zip project update
Date: 3-2-03
The form is up, frames & stem secured, keel installed. Chines are being fitted. I am building the Zip as a open utility. Haven't yet determined deck layout.
Subject: Zip project update
Date: 4-7-03
All support structure have been glued or fitted. The laminated shear took a lot of time to fit & glue. Also had problems with chine: had to add blocking at frame 5 1/2 so it wouldn't spring out and laminated patch on at stem end which was set in a bit aft. Now starting to fair.
Subject: Zip project update
Date: 5-15-03
Got delayed by holidays but the planking is done. Ready for filling and fiberglass sheathing.
Subject: Zip project update
Date: 6-10-03
Hi Barry,
The monsoon dumped three weeks worth of rain and delayed sheathing.
Couldn't find thin foam rollers as recommended in How to Fiberglass Boats so I trimmed off the shag from regular rollers.
Not having any experience in this process, did the transom first. Outboard cutout will be determined by motor size and whether a motor well is needed.
Found it easier to precut the cloth.
It was a lot easier than I expected. Extra hand from my son eased any panic that developed.
Now to determine the deck and cockpit layout.
Subject: Zip project update
Date: 8-17-03
Hi Barry,
Finally decided on the deck layout. Reduced the foredeck crown and reinforced it so it can be a diving/fishing? platform. Cockpit is maximized as this will be a utility boat. I am seriously considering Daug Hodder's suggestion to use cheap plastic chairs with cut-off the legs as seats; they're lightweight and they can be pulled for use on a beach.
Rolando
Subject: Zip project update
Date: 9-7-03
The deck has been laid, trimmed and sheathed.
April 12, 2004
After four months of being idled, I decided to throw the unfinished boat into the lake for a splash test. A 5hp Merc made it plane on calm water!
Fitted a 25hp Johnson for size. Gave the deck and the floorboards a quick coat of white paint to keep them cool in the tropical sun to prep her for The Easter holidays.
Trailed her past costumed penitents to the Hundred Islands marine park 200km away.
The kids taking her out to tour the islands.
So why should we let a little finishing putty and paint get in the way of fun!
Isn't this what boating is all about?
22 April 2005
Zip with 25 hp
Zip at speed with a 25hp. She moves at a very smart clip.
I finally got the time and the energy to go through the painting process. Gave up on the sanding after a few tedious attempts so it's not showroom finish, though the graphics do a pretty good job at camouflaging the rough spots. The boys christened her "Pawprint" after the cats left their marks on the freshly painted bottom.
Masking
14 May 2005
A couple more photos of Pawprint as she looks in the water and in action. Skiing with a 25hp? Why not?
Thanks for this great hull design!
Best regards,
Rolando