So, I've been modeling a fair amount lately, digitally and in 1:12 with modeling wood. I think I'm about to dive into a build of a 12'x48" McKenzie. I like the shape I'm getting out of taking the lines Roger lays out in his book for the Hindman 16' double ender with transom, and simply reducing the X-axis measurements by 20%. Other measurements remain the same.
Lofting of this design shakes out pretty well, with one or two offending points. One frame (#5), does not fit the model, even though all frames are built to the lofted dimensions. It's warping my brain to figure out why this frame does not conform. Any ideas on how a single frame that matches the lofting would not fit into the assembled boat?
Next question is, when modeling, how do you know or feel when a curve is going to be too radical for the real materials (1/4" marine ply, probably Hydrotek) to make the bend? For this design, since only the length is altered, the sides and floor will have less length to bend to the same width/rocker dimensions as the full sized boat. I think the reduction on the x-axis puts this boat in the same ball park as the HD, in terms of width vs. length, and the bend required in the sides. Other than "listening to the wood," anybody have any comments or suggestions on how tight a bend 1/4" ply will make safely?
Lastly (for now), I plan on oiling this boat in and out for ease of maintenance (I despise sanding flaking paint/varnish). Any sense on how much epoxy I should order to have enough for scarfing, frame assembly, and a bit left for on-river repair?
Thanks!
David