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FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Dec 22, 2017 6:30 am
by OrangeQuest
Our kayak season has ended at our last venue so the warehouse is being cleaned and room made for all the gear and boats. We then inventor everything and start getting ready for a big regatta at the beginning of March to start our season. While cleaning and making room for everything I had to move the FS14 out so I pulled the cover off the stern to access the rear frame on one side.

Pulled out the isolating multi-tool and installed a half moon blade. First time ever using this type of tool so tried different speeds and method.
The frame is filleted but not taped but still cutting through epoxy glue. Got the best results at medium high and swinging the tool as I cut to help keep the teeth cleared and from over heating any one spot on the blade. It cut clean and smooth...I liked the results and the blade was just starting to show wear at 1/3 to 1/2 way done.

I hope one blade will last for each frame and then one for each stringer. Not sure if I will be cutting out the front frame, it has been taped and heavily glassed. I did notice flex in the side of the boat where I started cutting and seen pictures of straps holding the sides in place. I am guessing I should put a board across the beam where the straps are to keep everything rigid as I cut?

In my mind I calculated that I will need 4 yds of the cloth to lay on the inside after I take everything out. BOM says 115 yards of tape but the outside is done. Thinking it would be safe to just order 2 rolls because I will be needing it for the sole and console too.

This was just a test run to try out the tool and see how fast this part is going to take. The tool cut very close to the surface of the side so should not need much sanding before laying the cloth. Real work on the boat begins over the holiday weekends.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Dec 22, 2017 6:36 am
by cape man
Post pics if you can for the next person.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Dec 23, 2017 12:31 pm
by OrangeQuest
Started cutting out the frames this morning. Here is a picture of the frame where it met the stringer.
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Here are the two cutting attachments I used. The half moon is on a variable speed multi tool and the plunge is on the single speed. Price was to good at HF to pass up. Bought the bigger one with the cutting blades and the little one was $5 more. And who likes to keep change blades?
2041
Was slow but easy to cut the frame flush to the hull with the half moon and the plunge blade did the angles. It is slow but clean. Just enough pressure to keep the blades cutting but not so much the blades get to hot keeps them from getting dull to fast.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Dec 24, 2017 9:29 pm
by OrangeQuest
All but the bow frames are removed. Also removed the stringers. It looks like cloth was laid from the forward middle bench frame to the bow.
Still need to fillet the seams, tape and lay cloth on the rest of the inside.
2045
Can see in this image the stringers did not go all the way to transom. The front frame is also to short, want the deck to go up higher.
2047

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jan 28, 2018 6:04 pm
by OrangeQuest
Ok, so it wasn't the best weather today for doing anything outside but I rolled the FS14 hull out and glued the inside transom piece in and added the filler to raise the transom motor cut out back up for a 20" shaft motor. Used three 1/4"X20 bolts with wing nuts to apply pressure to the bottom of the new piece and got a fair amount of squeeze out when I tightened them up. Then just used clamps for the top of the transom. Because I was afraid that when I wanted to pull the bolts out they would be glued in I wrapped then in Teflon tape ( have a few rolls from all the pipe repairs in the warehouse).
Figured it would be easier to drill the tape out than the steel bolts.

I know everyone likes pictures but with some of you guys being under the weather I didn't want you guys laughing to hard and hurting yourselves. I will wait till after I can take the clamps off for the pictures, may need to do a little cleaning up first!

Going to wait till the filler part is sanded down before adding the outside transom piece of the sandwich.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jan 29, 2018 9:10 am
by Capt UB
Looks like thing are going good. Weird that the stringer did not go all the way to the transom.
Here is a photo of my under deck/sole with pvc pipe as wire runs and drainage. Did this same setup up on a few Gheenoes that I installed false floors, worked out great. I will be pouring in foam.
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Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jan 29, 2018 11:27 am
by OrangeQuest
Capt UB wrote: Mon Jan 29, 2018 9:10 am Looks like thing are going good. Weird that the stringer did not go all the way to the transom. First builder had an extra frame and the splash well went all the way across so with an extra frame, the splash well and a smaller motor it may have been strong enough but I am going in a different direction.
Here is a photo of my under deck/sole with pvc pipe as wire runs and drainage. Did this same setup up on a few Gheenoes that I installed false floors, worked out great. I will be pouring in foam.
Capt UB I was wanting to get the transom raised back up so I can cut new stringers with the knees going up even with the transom to form the sides of a splash well. I am also putting in a sole with a center console. After the epoxy cures, I will be doing the fillets and taping all around the transom on the inside and then do the seams on the rest of the hull and lay glass on everything on the inside. (Will double check the plans to make sure when the glass gets laid). Then stringers and frames. I like the PVC drain you put in and may do the same. I know all my chase tubes will be ran down the center and once all that is done any unused space will have floatation foam, including under the sole. I was thinking I would have a 3 piece sole which would be one on each side and then one in the middle that I would put in last. That way if I screw up I lose less wood. :? Like you, me and wood don't always see eye to eye.


I have visions as to what and how I want things but as it comes together I have to then consider reality and what really can be done.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jan 29, 2018 11:58 am
by Capt UB
For some reason, I thought a 4x8 sheet would fit without cutting it in half! Forgot that the boat is wider then 4'.... Your idea of three part to the sole maybe a good Idea. The center will be walked and stood on the most, so you could add ply under for more straight?
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Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jan 29, 2018 1:39 pm
by OrangeQuest
One of the things I have been doing that saves me from wasting my more expensive marine grade plywood is making patterns out of reclaimed plywood. There is a furniture warehouse I pass on the way to my work and when they deliver a new table it comes incased in very cheap plywood which they leave out by their dumpster. It comes in different thickness and because it's very poorly glued together it is very easy on my saw blades- If I don't hit a missed staple that is. I measure, mark and then cut out what ever I am trying to make, then test fit it and trim as needed. Once it is the way I like it I then just clamp it to my good wood, trace it and then cut it out. It will come in handy when I cut out my stringers, additional frames and then the sole. I don't mind as much screwing up wood I reclaimed and just have to throw it back away!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jan 29, 2018 3:04 pm
by Capt UB
That's a great Idea. I have been using the cheap 1/4 ply, that starts adding up...

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jan 29, 2018 3:09 pm
by Jeff
Good idea from OrangeQuest or for patterns, use a heavy cardboard and cut with a sharp knife!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jan 30, 2018 9:25 pm
by glossieblack
Well, Anything new with the boat? :wink: :)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Feb 05, 2018 9:33 pm
by OrangeQuest
Sorry, just seen this. I glued the new transom and filler in and it set clamped up for 3 days. During the week I escaped long enough to sand a few high spots down. I have it squeezed into our warehouse and have to move a tandem axle kayak trailer to get it out to really work on it. Bad weather when I have time or my work gets busy on better days. I left a 1/8" gap around the edge of the new piece to make sure I could see glue squeeze out when clamped it so I need to put fillets around it and then tape. Then I will tape all the inside seems and lay the cloth. I also want to find time to lay out the stringers and get patterns cut for test fitting those in. Because I want to have a sole I want to make sure of the height before cutting.

Being a kayak outfitter, when the weather gets nice all our little boats come out. I am director of operations so I have a hand in everything! Pretty soon I will be coming in on my days off, staying after work and getting more of it done. A lot of our kayaks are in storage for the winter so not much extra space to move around. This week I have to build a new rack that was destroyed during the flood of Harvey. Then some 20 boats will be moved back to our venue where they belong.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Feb 06, 2018 10:17 am
by OrangeQuest
I am at that point where I want to fill in the gaps around the transom, fillet around the transom and then tape the transom on the wet on wet method.
I am using marine epoxy with medium harder and every time I have time the temps are in the mid to high 50's and it takes a very long time for the epoxy to get even tacky. But 3 of us will tackle the putty, fillet and taping. So there is someone mixing, another applying and then another one making it look clean and neat.

Biggest fiberglass job I have done was only 36" long and it turned out good after a lot of sanding.

Today's weather is going to be in the 70s but mist and dew everywhere.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Feb 08, 2018 5:10 pm
by OrangeQuest
Was able to move the boat out into the sunshine today and started doing the fillets and taping in the transom. Just as it got time to add the tape it started clouding up so pushed the boat back in enough to protect from any rain. Wanted to do wet on wet so nothing was going to stop us and we did get it done. I can now start making patterns for the stringers and knees.

2442

Can just see the add on filler.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Feb 09, 2018 8:50 am
by OrangeQuest
Ok. Epoxy is dry and a little milky where the tape overlap. Does any one see any concerns?
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Close up of one area
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Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Feb 09, 2018 12:30 pm
by pee wee
You can expect it to look a bit milky at overlaps when using biax, I think it's fine.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Feb 09, 2018 2:52 pm
by Capt UB
What epoxy and speed are you using?
Did you wet out the ply first?
Did you squeeze out the extra epoxy?

38.jpg

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Feb 09, 2018 6:00 pm
by OrangeQuest
Capt UB wrote: Fri Feb 09, 2018 2:52 pm What epoxy and speed are you using? Med -Marine epoxy
Did you wet out the ply first? Wet the plywood, putty,wet the putty, tape and wet on top
Did you squeeze out the extra epoxy?Yes

I wet the new piece of transom before I glued it into the old transom, both sides. Then I wet out the inside of the old transom. Glued in the new piece and waited a few days for cure. Wet out were I was going to add the fillets, filled in the gap I left around the new transom piece and make 7/16" fillets. Let them get tacky and then add neat epoxy and then laid the tape. Started up one side then the other. Then Laid the bottom and repeated till all the required tape was laid. Then squeegeed everything, keeping the squeegee wet so as not to stick and pull. Any extra that was pulled out of the tape I spread out on the bottom and sides to wet for glass.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Feb 09, 2018 8:21 pm
by OrangeQuest
I am getting tired of this weather. Cold, wet, warm, sunny, windy and then back to cold....all in the same day. Saturday will start warm and rainy then Sunday will start in the 50s then drop to the 40s in the afternoon with wind 10 to 20 mph from the north.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Feb 09, 2018 10:11 pm
by OrangeQuest
I think I know why it is milky....It's 12 oz tape instead of 6oz. !! 8O Plans call for 6 oz.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Feb 10, 2018 12:19 am
by Fuzz
OrangeQuest wrote: Fri Feb 09, 2018 10:11 pm I think I know why it is milky....It's 12 oz tape instead of 6oz. !! 8O Plans call for 6 oz.
There worse places than the transom to have extra glass :wink:

If your weather is too bad I might be willing to trade you :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Feb 10, 2018 6:14 am
by OrangeQuest
Fuzz wrote: Sat Feb 10, 2018 12:19 am
OrangeQuest wrote: Fri Feb 09, 2018 10:11 pm I think I know why it is milky....It's 12 oz tape instead of 6oz. !! 8O Plans call for 6 oz.
There worse places than the transom to have extra glass :wink:If your weather is too bad I might be willing to trade you :D
No No No!! Just Friday whining, had to cancel all tours for the weekend. I am NOT a cold weather person, shorts and flip flops for me.

Was worried about why the tape was milky and I wanted to double check the schedule and noticed the plans said 6oz tape. I got two rolls of tape when we got the hull and never noticed the thickness of either. Then my administrator came out to the workshop and said "this roll looks like 6oz and the one you are using is 12oz." I looked at her and agreed! She gave me that "there is your answer" look and walked back into her office. I was thinking 12oz tape and 6oz glass.... But that is backwards! :oops: Can you tell it's my 1st time? :oops: :oops:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Feb 11, 2018 7:23 am
by OrangeQuest
Ok. This is going to be hard to explain this and I may have to post pictures of my idea but here I go, I would like feed back on you guys that have seen a lot of skiffs and tell me if this is to far out there.

I made a pattern for the stringer, just the back where the knee is, to go all the way up to the highest point of the transom. It will be the sides of the splash well. The well goes forward about 14" where there will be a frame for the back of the well and to form a seat back for the aft bench. Instead of having what would look like a 3 sided box sticking up in front of the motor I would like to add a "washboard?" Deck on each side of the splash well, following the same angle as the transom to the side of the boat. Then the gunwale will be at the same slight angle to the bow. With a half round bead for a drip rail. It will be at a 3 or 4 degree angle outward. I will try to get a sample picture when I get to work today.

Note: It will get a sole and the rear bench will be 12 inches shorter but frames will be added under the sole to be about 24" apart.

Thoughts? It will not hurt my feelings if everyone thinks I'm crazy. I have been married twice so I have been called worse. :)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Feb 11, 2018 11:37 am
by Fuzz
Will this look something like the stern of the LB22 that was just posted in the finished section? If so I think it will look good.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Feb 11, 2018 3:54 pm
by OrangeQuest
Fuzz wrote: Sun Feb 11, 2018 11:37 am Will this look something like the stern of the LB22 that was just posted in the finished section? If so I think it will look good.
Yes....But the motor will be mounted on the very back. The hatch at the side of the motor and the slight angle of them and the gunwale would be what I would like. Then the half round drip rail would give it a clean look and strength. I don't know where I got the half round drip rail idea from! :wink:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Feb 13, 2018 7:09 am
by OrangeQuest
Was hoping to get more feedback on this change in design, maybe more pictures could help visualize it. The first picture see the deck on each side of the motor well and it flows into the gunwales, even has the round edge. front deck will not be that high.
2453
But not flat to trap any water on the decks but slopping, gently to the sides like this picture.
2454

Then there will be a 16" bench seat, the live well and bait well will be under it. Plans call for the frames to maintain 36" spacing but we will be at 24" under the sole. Side braces (in wales?) every 36" above the sole.

Going to start making the stringers this week.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Feb 13, 2018 9:07 am
by Capt UB
OrangeQuest wrote: Tue Feb 13, 2018 7:09 am Was hoping to get more feedback on this change in design, maybe more pictures could help visualize it. The first picture see the deck on each side of the motor well and it flows into the gunwales, even has the round edge. front deck will not be that high.
2453
But not flat to trap any water on the decks but slopping, gently to the sides like this picture.
2454

Then there will be a 16" bench seat, the live well and bait well will be under it. Plans call for the frames to maintain 36" spacing but we will be at 24" under the sole. Side braces (in wales?) every 36" above the sole.

Going to start making the stringers this week.
Both are very nice setups. There will be a lot more weight. The top one has the open cockpit like my boat.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Feb 13, 2018 1:53 pm
by Fuzz
I like the looks of that very much.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Feb 13, 2018 3:19 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thank you Fuzz and Capt UB for the feedback,

Capt UB, did you notice the one that looks like an FS14 is remote steer? As far as the extra weight, it will come from the sole, center console and the gunwale. It has been an issue even before buying the plans. I just hope it floats after I'm in it! These little decks on the side of the motor well is just some of the aft deck raised. My boat will also be an open area behind the console, I think it measured 7.5 feet even after moving the bow deck back a foot. Jacques M. said to maintain the frames no more than 36" apart and I think they will be 24"-28"

This month's budget will be more epoxy, 6oz tape color pigment and 4oz cloth.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Feb 13, 2018 10:53 pm
by TomW1
OrangeQuest with the added weight(I am estimating about 50-75lbs) are you going to up your motor hp to a 20.

Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Feb 14, 2018 6:52 am
by OrangeQuest
TomW1 wrote: Tue Feb 13, 2018 10:53 pm OrangeQuest with the added weight(I am estimating about 50-75lbs) are you going to up your motor hp to a 20.

Tom
I am going to 25hp 4 stroke. I am really liking the Suzuki price and weight. From what I am reading it weights from 153 to 157 pounds and that is with power trim and tilt. Only about 30 to 50 pounds heavier than a 15hp 4 stroke, depends on manufacturer. As we get closer to the finish line we will know more exact weight of the whole setup, with and without gear. I will need your help on pitch for two different uses of the boat. Short version for both, we will call them play and work.

Play pitch will be for getting it up on plane and running from fishing spot to the next.
Work pitch (here is were it may get a little crazy) it will be used to explore new waterways for paddling and inspecting for damage or log jams while the paddling trails have higher than normal flow rates. Don't need speed but quick response to helm at very slow forward speeds. Keeping the bow pointed into the current while still making headway. It is not about speed as much as it is control.

Hope I made some sense on some of the changes I will be making to the design. Sorry for long post.

Ken J

P.S. For those of you who think I am crazy, hope this confirms your thoughts! :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Feb 14, 2018 9:57 pm
by TomW1
Ken will be glad to work with you.

Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Mar 02, 2018 6:07 am
by OrangeQuest
This Houston weather is finally starting to warm up enough to get the inside of the hull all glassed in.
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Took the glass all the way to the top on all sides. I laid out, cut, then glued the tips to the stringers and once cured will cut notches for the frames.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Mar 02, 2018 8:13 am
by Jeff
OrangeQuest, nice glass work and great progress!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Mar 02, 2018 8:55 pm
by OrangeQuest
Jeff wrote: Fri Mar 02, 2018 8:13 am OrangeQuest, nice glass work and great progress!!! Jeff
Thanks Jeff. It is a milestone for me cause I was given the boat half finished and took all the frames and stringers out to build it the way I want it. With the glass laid I can now start building MY boat.

I have learned a lot trolling this forum and following all the builds going on. The advice and guidance here is priceless and it gives me the confidence to keep going. Thanks everyone for helping me get this far.

Ken J

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Mar 11, 2018 9:31 am
by Bogieman
She's looking really nice! You're making swift progress too, :D

Bogie

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Mar 12, 2018 9:14 am
by OrangeQuest
Thanks Boogieman!

Everything on the build has came to a stop for now. Our kayak tour season started!! Time to start making money again. I am operations director of an kayak, canoe, paddleboard outfitter and some of our venues started with spring break. Houston's biggest kayak/canoe race was last weekend and we rented more than 50 boats. As the season gets going and I get new employees trained I can spend a little time on the build but for now it is just a dust collector.

In the back ground is two of our 4 fleets of kayaks. If anyone has any questions about plastic kayaks I could have answers, if not I'm good at winging it! :roll: :lol:
1970

I think this picture was taken in December or January, slow time for us.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Mar 12, 2018 10:01 am
by Jeff
OrangeQuest, Go make some money!!! We fully understand!! Just keep an eye on those Spring Breakers!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Mar 12, 2018 8:23 pm
by TomW1
OrangeQuest fully understand when the season starts it is nonstop. I worked for a company that did rafting, canoes and the sit on tops on a white water river here in NC: I did the accounting for it. You may get a day off in the middle of the week but you cannot count on it. :lol:

Well take care and do not work to hard.

Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Mar 13, 2018 6:11 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thanks Jeff and Tom!

I had an hour or two to kill and took the frames I cut out and notched them to hold the stringers upright and in the correct position. I then cut a mold and notched it to hold the top of the stringers in place. I still have to sand the surface for a good bond but everything looks like I am almost ready to tab in the stringers. Took a scrap piece of board and rough in where the side splash deck will be.

2582

Roughed out an estimate on all the fittings, adapters, connections for the plumbing of the live well and bait well. Just under $200.00 from Flow-Rite if I use PVC valves. Jumps up to just under $500.00 if I use their valves, controls, and cables. Few of the things I like about the Flow-Rite stuff is their remote air intake aerators and Qwik-Lok sockets. If one of the PVC valves act up I can quickly replace them. ( Thanks Tom for pointing me to them).

https://flow-rite.com/marine/products

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Mar 17, 2018 3:55 pm
by OrangeQuest
Everyone must be out enjoying the weekend. Here in Houston Spring break ends Monday and everyone goes back to school. We have had a very successful week at Discovery Green averaging over 400 people per day kayaking in a very small lake. Anyway, I have the weekend working on the Bayou City FS14.

Put on a painter's dust suit in hopes of keeping most of the FG dust off me but I can still feel it on my forearms. Sanded the inside of the hull enough to glue in the stringers. Tomorrow I will fillet and tape them in. Nothing picture worthy today but maybe me in a white dust suit and mask wearing flip flops and that will never be posted!

Then I will start making templates of the front of the splash well and stern bench seat frame in it's new position. Once I like how they look I will start on all the other frames. Once all the new frames are cut I will stack them all up and cut the holes for all the chase tubes and forward drain tube.

Now I know I will need a chase tube for the steering cable and another for shift controls. Then one each for wiring and fuel. Then the drain tube. That is 5 tubes, anything else? Should I have a separate one for power and ground supply wires?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Mar 17, 2018 5:00 pm
by glossieblack
Can't see any reason why power supply and grounding can't share a tube with other wiring. Your build's looking good. :)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Mar 17, 2018 5:12 pm
by TomW1
Sounds like you have it covered. Only thing I might add is a separate one for the depth sounder they can be temperamental.

Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Mar 17, 2018 5:33 pm
by OrangeQuest
glossieblack wrote: Sat Mar 17, 2018 5:00 pm Can't see any reason why power supply and grounding can't share a tube with other wiring. Your build's looking good. :)
Thank you Glossieblack!
TomW1 wrote: Sat Mar 17, 2018 5:12 pm Sounds like you have it covered. Only thing I might add is a separate one for the depth sounder they can be temperamental.

Tom

You are 100% correct! May run that one outside the stringers away from all others. Thank You very much Tom, I would have missed it.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Mar 19, 2018 7:59 am
by OrangeQuest
Spent most of Saturday covering myself in FG dust but got the inside of the hull ready for the stringers. It's Monday morning and I can still feel the dust that got through my dust suit, I may rubber band the sleeves next time! Before I put the build away for the night I tack the stringers in.

Sunday morning pulled the build out and brushed on some neat epoxy to wet out the stringers and the hull. Scrubbed up 4 SUP boards for a private event Friday then put fillets on all the angles, silicon spatula made quick work of it. Left for lunch. All this was biting into the remaining epoxy that I had so very carefully measuring how much the jugs go down on each batch. I use a food scale to measure the epoxy and wood flour for accurate measurements and faster mix times. First batch of fillet my helper took to long to blend flour in the epoxy and was already starting to heat up when I got it so worked very fast. Then showed him how to weight a cup of flour, mix the next batch and then weigh it again and subtract that from what he started with and that got the batches coming faster.

Had four pieces of tape pre-cut to length, we placed the first tape on the still tacky epoxy and I started rolling. Took two batches of epoxy to wet out one tape and by my measurements I had enough epoxy for 10 more batches of epoxy, only needed six to get all the taping done. By the time I got finished with number 3 tape I looked at what little epoxy was in the jug and only had enough for one more batch...maybe so I have one side to still tape the stringer! :cry: :cry:

But next epoxy order will be 3 gallons so should have more than enough to finish the build and some to spare. Have to wait for next month's budget.

Oh, and I touched epoxy to one of my eyebrows....that hurts!!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Mar 22, 2018 5:47 am
by OrangeQuest
Since I am waiting for next month's budget to get more epoxy to finish taping the inside frames I started cutting down the old frames to fit in their new positions. Kind of mocked it up to get an idea of what the transom will look like. Here is a picture without the side splash deck.

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Here is a mock up of the splash deck:

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Under the stern bench the wells will go. They will double as ballast tanks when not used for fish and I am by myself. Everybody needs an extra 170 pounds on a mini boat right? :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Mar 22, 2018 5:50 am
by glossieblack
Nice logical approach OrangeQuest! :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Apr 08, 2018 7:34 am
by OrangeQuest
The budget for April has came through and looks like there will be enough funds to get 3 gallons of epoxy (hopefully way more than needs to finish the boat) and may just be enough to get a few sheets of 6mm plywood. I have a family style lumber yard about a mile from the warehouse. They just sell lumber and a few wood working tools so the price they have for marine plywood is hard to turn down. As close as they are I could pick it up with a bicycle and trailer!! :)

The only thing that will hold me back form continuing the build it free time. Opening another venue back up this coming up weekend, everything is ready!! R/C sailboats will also be out of the way and ready for rentals at a local park. The warehouse won't be bulging as much so a little more room to get to the build. Have one more venue in May that the gear is almost ready for that opening but very minor.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Apr 11, 2018 12:30 pm
by OrangeQuest
Order 3 gallons on epoxy this morning. That should be enough to get to building again. I can finish taping in the one side of the last stringer and start wetting out the frames that I have cut. Will also start cutting out the holes for the plumbing in the two fish wells. I am considering putting my chase tubes on the outside of the strings and a fore to aft drain tube down the center.

I am so excited about getting to start on the build again!! Even if it is a few minutes here and there. Getting the venues up and running for our kayaking company will free up some of my time!!

Back to the build, it looks like there was enough in this month's budget for me to get a sheet of 6mm marine ply. I will use it to start making the well sides. .I don't want the bottoms to be flat but angled to the drain. Even though I know the nut for the drain fitting needs some clearance to tighten the nut and install the screen.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Apr 11, 2018 12:48 pm
by Jeff
OrangeQuest, your 3 gallon order is packed and will ship today by 4:00 PM!! Thank you, Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Apr 11, 2018 9:45 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thank you Jeff! I got my email all ready too. Looks like it will be waiting for me when I get to the warehouse on Wednesday. Our UPS guy will pull into our parking lot, turn around and give it to the girl standing at our door, so you guys really do give door to door service!! Thanks again.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Apr 12, 2018 7:16 am
by Jeff
Nice OrangeQuest!! Also glad your weather has improved greatly (finally for most of us)!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Apr 13, 2018 3:47 am
by glossieblack
How's progress OQ? Build on! :wink:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Apr 13, 2018 6:29 am
by OrangeQuest
Thank for asking GB! Work for me has been very crazy. I have 3 gallons on epoxy on it's way and hoping I need a little more than a gallon to finish the build. While I have been waiting for the April budget to come through I have made two new frames ready to wet them out, sand then tape them in at the stern. Then I will start building out the live well and bait well between those frames.

Had a nice little adventure with work yesterday. We are training a team of kayakers that want to do a long distance race so we were following them around the outside edge of a big lake in our motorized canoe. Distance would be 60 miles total so we started out before day light. First 17 miles very boring but the paddlers were moving at about 4.5 to 5 mph so making good time. But just as we got on the far end of the lake the wind started to kick up and so did the waves. A lot of the shore line is big bulkheads that bounce the waves back and they build bigger and bigger. They also start coming from all directions so we got bounced around a lot. For the next 11 miles was a battle to keep from being swamped and staying with the kayakers. They slow down to just a little over 2 MPH which for our big canoe it was just to slow. 44 inch beam made it rock like crazy and waves would breach every way they could. 500 gph bilge pump had a work out that was for sure. The kayakers flipped 3 times and were able to get back in without help two of the times but had to make multiple circles to get all their gear back to them. One wave would lift the bow out of the water and the next wave would come over the bow! I could hear the motor come out of the water a few times as the waves moved under us. We cut the last 6 miles back short and found a public boat ramp to take out.

I will look for damage today.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Apr 13, 2018 6:44 am
by glossieblack
Sounds like a challenging but rewarding outing.

Interacting with, adjusting to, and coping with, the changing moods of mother nature in your own small craft is about as good as it gets :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Apr 13, 2018 8:40 am
by OrangeQuest
glossieblack wrote: Fri Apr 13, 2018 6:44 am Sounds like a challenging but rewarding outing.

Interacting with, adjusting to, and coping with, the changing moods of mother nature in your own small craft is about as good as it gets :D
It's one thing to be challenged but different when you are there to keep others safe while trying to keep your own boat floating!! 8O It does help to learn what the limits of the boat and crew are before needed.

Don't see any really damage done to the boat but the battery did get down to 40%. I have never let is get that low (think 50% is better for the type of battery it is). Anything and everything that was on board got soaked. We burned 1.5 gallons of fuel so had more than half still to burn and a spare jug of another more 2 gallons.
2737
Picture of our canoe after I got it off the trailer this morning and on it's "all terrain" dolly.

Glossieblack you may have seen us on one of the morning shows about a year ago. Sunrise Australia or something like that, did a show of us paddling on Buffalo Bayou. All they had us do is paddle back and forth in front of the camera guy and I think I talked a little about how much fun it was.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Apr 13, 2018 8:45 pm
by TomW1
Are you saying you took your FS14 out. How about some launch pictures. Why did the battery run down if the motor was running as it should have been charging the battery. You have a very nice boat :D

Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Apr 14, 2018 6:30 am
by OrangeQuest
TomW1 wrote: Fri Apr 13, 2018 8:45 pm Are you saying you took your FS14 out. How about some launch pictures. Why did the battery run down if the motor was running as it should have been charging the battery. You have a very nice boat :D

Tom
No no Tom! I was in the company canoe in the picture. It has a 5hp motor that does not have a charging system. Under most conditions the lawn tractor battery will only discharge down to 70% or so. Used to power up the GPS/fish finder, running lights and a flood light that almost never gets used. On this day the waves were breaching on all sides of us that the bilge pump was on most the time. Lucky we did not exceed the capacity of the pump, I had to keep turning it on and off.

The FS14 is water proof enough right now that after I get the last tape on the stringer, the frames back in that we will be putting it in the water to see where to put the console with the weight of the 25hp motor. That maybe a few months away.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Apr 14, 2018 8:43 pm
by Bogieman
OrangeQuest wrote: Fri Apr 13, 2018 6:29 am ... I have 3 gallons on epoxy on it's way and hoping I need a little more than a gallon to finish the build...
OrangeQuest,

Glad you have supplies on the way. Build on!!!!

Bogie

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Apr 17, 2018 7:53 am
by OrangeQuest
Even better news is more supplies will be ordered this week, all the plumbing parts for the fish wells!! Getting most everything thing from Flow-Rite. Using flexible hose and their QWIK LOK sockets and fitting will give me a lot more options on running the plumbing. Still undecided on what to use for the overflow plumbing. Because the V3 system valve will add water to the system as needed it will never be a max overflow system unless I turn off the return drain or restrict it. The overflow plumbing can be added after the boat is closer to finish anyway.

With the help and advice from the builders on here I have the design of the wells mostly figured out in my head. (not much room for anything else in there right now :!: ) I don't see a point of large rounded corners in the live well and I want to use maximum volume of the area so once the angled bottom and sides are glued to the frames it will get 1/2" fillets, light blue tinted epoxy, taped and glass. Anything going in there will become my dinner and just needs to last long enough to get to a cleaning station!!! The bait well I am still thinking about. I like the 5 gallon bucket mold used by one of the builders. But I also have 8" piece of PVC pipe that looks like it would make a very nice rounded corner mold. I think I have enough to tape 4 pieces together to form the well.

As you can tell by my really long post I am getting excited to get back to working on my build and putting my thoughts into action. Getting ready for that "hold my beer!" stuff!!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Apr 17, 2018 12:10 pm
by Bogieman
Build on OrangeQuest! :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Apr 17, 2018 9:20 pm
by TomW1
Your right the live well doesn't need the rounded corners. In fact on a lot of days you can just fill it with ice and keep you catch there. The exception is if your tournament fishing. Put the flow one way so the fish can line up facing the flow. The bait well need to have rounded corners to keep the bait from blooding there noses. It doesn't have to be much but at least 1 1/2"-2" corners work well. It really depends on the bait you will be using. For shrimp they like vvery little water flow. There are switches that will switch on the pump at various time intervals. For other bait you want a circular flow so the bait can swim against it.

Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Apr 18, 2018 6:46 am
by OrangeQuest
Tom I am just a novice fisherman. Most the time I fish it is for the fun of it and I keep fish that are best for eating. Other times I go out it seems I am just feeding the fish. Because most my fishing experience is from a kayak with limited space and weight I know nothing of what bait likes what much less could do anything about it. My bait buckets have been small one that you toss in the water to coolers that have air pumps and little battery operated pumps. That said, I thought the timers where to help save the battery! :lol: :oops: But now I know the REAL reason for using one I may consider putting one in the budget.$$

Finger mullet, live croakers, shrimp and big mullet for cut bait. The mullet I will catch in a cast net but shrimp and croaker I have to buy most the time. As you suggested earlier, I will be able to control the flow to either well via ball valves and will be using aerator power flow nozzles close to the bottom of the wells for max effectiveness. I don't like buying ice to keep in the boat for fish I might keep, waste of money and don't want the extra weight but if I want to keep fish I can just fill it up when needed. The live well will also be a ballast tank when I am solo. If you remember I want helm to be more forward than "normal" and the ability to add the extra 15 gallons in the stern will help trim the boat.

When exploring new inlets and waterways I have learned that "lookouts" don't do a very good job of looking for submerged logs and sandbars. Also at low speed and the stern a little lite helm will respond better for a quick dodge maneuver. But the wells will play a key roll in the use of the boat on most trips. Most the time it will have a crew of two people and the live well will stay empty and we will just use the bait well.

I want to get the boat in the water soon with weight in the stern for the motor and then see where I can put the console for helm. Want to see how it is sitting with full load and then just with motor, batteries, fuel tank and anchors. I would like to see the bow ride high enough to drain any water on board all the way to the stern. Where it sits in the warehouse there was a water leak that dripped into the boat and with the bow just a little high water collected just aft of midship.

My shipment of epoxy came in yesterday ( Thanks everyone at BBC for really great service!!) so work on the boat will soon begin again!!
So busy at work, after I get off work today I have a meeting with Houston Parks board on a up coming event!! Where to load and unload kayaks for opening of another new park!!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Apr 18, 2018 9:36 am
by Capt UB
A fishing buddy (Capt 250 ton, Fly fishing guide and very Old Fart) told me this about bait/live wells;

Would you be comfortable in a square box tub or a rounded box tub... Don't know it this helps....

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Apr 18, 2018 10:18 am
by OrangeQuest
Capt UB wrote: Wed Apr 18, 2018 9:36 am A fishing buddy (Capt 250 ton, Fly fishing guide and very Old Fart) told me this about bait/live wells;

Would you be comfortable in a square box tub or a rounded box tub... Don't know it this helps....
Was thinking of putting a picture of a shark with it's mouth open so they would stay at one end and be easier to catch!! 8O

Some believe that when you catch fish to reel them in with very heavy tackle to keep their stress down and just drag them in. I like to use light tackle 10# or less.in the bays and target specs and slot reds. Feel it gives the fish a fighting chance and to me it is more fun. Even when I go beyond the breakers 15 and 20# line is all I use to target bigger fish. In a kayak you use your boat for drag.

The live well will be somewhere around 20"X11"X16" (15 gallon) so very shallow and not to wide. I like to eat smaller legal limit fish so Nothing to big will be in the "box".

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Apr 18, 2018 9:11 pm
by TomW1
OQ i believe in light tackle fishing. I have two spinning reels with 4 and 6 lb. mono. I also have a spin cast reel with 2lb mono. These are for trout and bass fishing and catch fish up to 8lbs. For salt water my spinning reels are loaded with 8lb braid. They work well for most trout and reds. They have a 12 lb flouro leader. The biggest fish I caught was an 18lb northern pike on the 6lb set up, boy was it fun.

Okay on your livewell and baitwell no need to worry about ice if you have correct flow through them.

Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Apr 18, 2018 9:43 pm
by OrangeQuest
I love a fair fight and love it even more if I win! Lowest my skills allow me use is 6# mono but I break it all the time just tying knots to the fluorocarbon leader! So my spin reels get 8# and 10#. Topwater baitcaster and my bait soaker get braid but on a plastic boat it can get tricky if using it in deep water and it rubs the boat.

Ordered all my Flow-Rite stuff today. I played out all the fittings in my head, then on paper, but still don't know if I got it all. I know I have enough for a good start. Crazy that getting water to the pump and then getting it back out the same pick up looks like that will be the most complex of the wells.

Few late nights at the warehouse may make it happen.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Apr 20, 2018 6:35 am
by OrangeQuest
Here is a video of my plumbing of the fish wells with Flow-Rite stuff. They make it look so easy don't they!

https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=fl ... &FORM=VIRE

Mine will also have tees for two tanks and one pump.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Apr 20, 2018 7:31 am
by Jeff
OrangeQuest, I could not get the video to run on YouTube. Would you have a look and repost when you have time? Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Apr 20, 2018 8:50 am
by OrangeQuest
Jeff wrote: Fri Apr 20, 2018 7:31 am OrangeQuest, I could not get the video to run on YouTube. Would you have a look and repost when you have time? Jeff
Sorry Jeff, I edited it instead of reposting the link. I previewed it and it works "now" as far as I can tell!

I like the system because of the "plug and play" once everything is attached. Slide a clip to attach or detach hoses so should, in theory, be easier than screw hose clamps in tight places. In the video it is one hand operation. Oh, and the price of most the fittings are close to the same as barbed fitting. The V3 valve, cable and actuator not so much at $75.00. But it is serviceable.

Personal note: Ordered a few days ago and it is still processing so not in the mail yet.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Apr 20, 2018 9:44 am
by Capt UB
Jeff wrote: Fri Apr 20, 2018 7:31 am OrangeQuest, I could not get the video to run on YouTube. Would you have a look and repost when you have time? Jeff
Worked for me I got wet....

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Apr 20, 2018 10:14 am
by Bogieman
OrangeQuest wrote: Fri Apr 20, 2018 6:35 am Here is a video of my plumbing of the fish wells with Flow-Rite stuff. They make it look so easy don't they!
OrangeQuest,

That really is a neat system and yes they do make it look easy. Looking forward to seeing pics of your finished install.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Apr 20, 2018 11:00 am
by OrangeQuest
Bogieman wrote: Fri Apr 20, 2018 10:14 am
OrangeQuest wrote: Fri Apr 20, 2018 6:35 am Here is a video of my plumbing of the fish wells with Flow-Rite stuff. They make it look so easy don't they!
OrangeQuest,

That really is a neat system and yes they do make it look easy. Looking forward to seeing pics of your finished install.
You and me both! Where they have a nice big open space I will be installing in a 12"X8" opening. May have to have some of it in the bilge.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Apr 20, 2018 11:20 am
by Jeff
Great video!!! Nice stuff!! Lets make sure you document your install!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Apr 20, 2018 12:27 pm
by OrangeQuest
Jeff the people I work with want to just follow me around with a go pro and video everything and post it on utube. They think they will make a lot of money following grumpy old man. :cry:

But I will try. I hope the system works as they say.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Apr 20, 2018 12:34 pm
by Capt UB
OrangeQuest wrote: Fri Apr 20, 2018 12:27 pm Jeff the people I work with want to just follow me around with a go pro and video everything and post it on utube. They think they will make a lot of money following grumpy old man. :cry:

But I will try. I hope the system works as they say.

I don't know which one you are... ;)
grumpy-old-men.jpg
grumpy-old-men.jpg (50.85 KiB) Viewed 2536 times

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Apr 20, 2018 12:36 pm
by Jeff
OrangeQuest, I agree, the system looks great!! Can't wait for you to install to see if it is really that easy!! Have a good weekend, Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Apr 23, 2018 5:13 pm
by OrangeQuest
2018 Suzuki in white and grey trim!!
Thinking white hull and grey decks
2795

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Apr 23, 2018 9:34 pm
by TomW1
Man that is one powerful motor for the FS14. You sure you want that much power? If your tiller steering I would recommend against it. If you do a console it would be more manageable.

Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Apr 24, 2018 7:48 am
by OrangeQuest
TomW1 wrote: Mon Apr 23, 2018 9:34 pm Man that is one powerful motor for the FS14. You sure you want that much power? If your tiller steering I would recommend against it. If you do a console it would be more manageable.

Tom
YES and it is white too! It will be a center console with the console being forward of the middle bench area. The stern bench frame was moved back by about 10" but added a full frame to form wash decks on each side of the motor well. Motor well sides are also the transom knees. Once I add the champing board on the outside of the transom it will be 1.75" thick. All frames under the sole are 24" apart which added 1 extra frame before the console. All seams on the inside of the hull were taped ( by accident) with 12oz biaxial tape then completely covered in 12oz cloth. The aft part of the console will be part of a frame that will be the start of steps on each side of the console that make it easier to step onto the raised casting deck at the bow. Trying to have a 7' to 8' sole from aft bench to front deck. In all the boat should be solid to handle the HP. I think anything smaller will be straining most the time and 25hp is a smoother 3 cyl. AND IT COMES IN WHITE! :) :)

Most these small skiffs are for a single person to sit aft of midship when solo to trim the boat correctly then a long tiller to control the boat which gives very limited control at slow speeds and no easy shifting from forward to reverse. Then a passenger or two sit in front of them blocking the view of the helmsman. Two persons sitting side by side on the midship bench and the helmsman has to zigzag to see in front of the boat. And at 3 people the boat becomes sluggish, not something I want in a boat, even a little one.
This boat is being built so that doesn't happen. No one ever sits in front of the helmsman while underway. If solo then the livewell/baitwell under the aft bench will be used as ballast tanks for correcting trim issues (that is where the extra 170 pounds of water comes in handy). And when fishing with a buddy the boat will be like having 3 people on board if the livewell is used. Most the time just the baitwell will be in use. We do a lot of catch and release but to fill the livewell takes just turning two valves. If that happens the two of us stand side by side at the helm when underway.

To me this all makes sense on trimming the boat out. To some it may seem crazy. Think about it, on a small boat it has to be trimmed every time weight is added, even a small amount, or taken out. Weight like the motor, fuel tank and normal gear that is stowed always on board should not move around and that includes helm. So I am building the boat to consider that there will always be an extra 170 pounds at the stern and my 200 pounds behind the wheel. 8O

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Apr 24, 2018 7:52 am
by OrangeQuest
Something like this but with a console behind the bow deck and the deck not quiet so high. This is the same size boat but with a 30hp.

2453

Wouldn't that boat look better with a white motor?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Apr 24, 2018 7:59 am
by Jeff
OrangeQuest, Absolutely on the white motor!! Nice boat!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Apr 24, 2018 9:13 am
by Capt UB
OrangeQuest wrote: Tue Apr 24, 2018 7:52 am Something like this but with a console behind the bow deck and the deck not quiet so high. This is the same size boat but with a 30hp.

2453

Wouldn't that boat look better with a white motor?


That's a FS 14?????

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Apr 24, 2018 9:49 am
by Bogieman
I like that set up. Makes sense to put your helm station at the bow.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Apr 24, 2018 10:10 am
by OrangeQuest
Capt UB wrote: Tue Apr 24, 2018 9:13 am
OrangeQuest wrote: Tue Apr 24, 2018 7:52 am Something like this but with a console behind the bow deck and the deck not quiet so high. This is the same size boat but with a 30hp.

[

Wouldn't that boat look better with a white motor?


That's a FS 14?????
No That is a Design by Charles Wittholz from the Wooden Boat Store called the Little Moby. Same length and beam but says it is a vee hull designed for rough water. Also says it can take up to a 40 hp. With it's stated 10" draft then I am guessing more vee at the stern than the FS14 that maybe why it can use a bigger motor.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Apr 25, 2018 6:11 am
by topwater
Look up Pat4 in the gallery , he built a FS 14 very similar to that .

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Apr 25, 2018 8:14 am
by OrangeQuest
I really like his boat but where his console is more aft of midship I would like mine just off the fore deck. That is why I am extending the length of the deck. Looking at somewhere at the widest part of the boat for max walk ways on the sides. Console will have to be tall enough to stand at the helm.

Right now waiting for flow-rite parts to build the stern out and then start working forward. Wanting to drill all my chase tube holes before the frames go into the hull so they stand the best chance of lining up. Foredeck will get chase tube for wiring the nav light and the docking lights. Will also be cutting all limber holes before the frames go in. Was thinking no limber holes in the stringers till reaches the bilge area so any leaks will be easier to find where they are coming from....IF I get any leaks!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Apr 25, 2018 9:08 am
by Capt UB
OrangeQuest wrote: Wed Apr 25, 2018 8:14 am I really like his boat but where his console is more aft of midship I would like mine just off the fore deck. That is why I am extending the length of the deck. Looking at somewhere at the widest part of the boat for max walk ways on the sides. Console will have to be tall enough to stand at the helm.

Right now waiting for flow-rite parts to build the stern out and then start working forward. Wanting to drill all my chase tube holes before the frames go into the hull so they stand the best chance of lining up. Foredeck will get chase tube for wiring the nav light and the docking lights. Will also be cutting all limber holes before the frames go in. Was thinking no limber holes in the stringers till reaches the bilge area so any leaks will be easier to find where they are coming from....IF I get any leaks!


Did you cover the whole outside of the hull with glass?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Apr 25, 2018 10:20 am
by OrangeQuest
[quote="Capt UB" post_id=421058 time=1524661727 user_id=34125

Did you cover the whole outside of the hull with glass?
[/quote]

I did not start the hull, it was given to me and I bought the trailer it was on. But the hull, on the outside was glassed to 6" above the chine. When the boat is flipped to finish the hull I may add the glass up to the rub rail. If I do any glass it will be 6oz for a smoother finish and less fairing. The bottom has been covered in graphite mix. Some of the frames were already tact into the hull and the front frame and the middle bench frame were taped in. I cut out all frames but the very front frame. The stringers that were in it did not run all the way as one piece and no transom knees. I replaced or will be replacing all that. Just like your build I added a few more frames, spaced at 24", below the sole. But stopped midship to see where the console will be compared to the extra weight of the motor. The fuel tank will be under the fore deck or be in bottom of console into the foredeck. The sole stops at the console.

The front frame is to short, will butt block a short piece to bring it up, and then add another frame that will be part of the steps, console and back frame of the deck. All depends on where the fat guy will be when at the helm. :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Apr 26, 2018 3:02 pm
by KENBOUCHER
Hey orangequest, how did you decide on the Suzuki? I've been studying on the 25's too. I've always been Omc or Yamaha, but the new E-tec's are kinda $$. Never had a Suzuki, but with 6 year warranty........ Most of the commercial guys (crabbers/oystermen etc) run the Yammies around here.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Apr 26, 2018 5:28 pm
by OrangeQuest
When they had the 6 year warranty, it comes with tool kit, fuel tank and controls. They will ship it door to door and I drove a Suzuki suv like a bat out of help and never a problem. 3 cylinders for little smoother idle and better throttle response and for $4150 power tilt and trim with remote. Even the 2018 in white is close to that price tag. I love 4 stroke engines verse 2 stroke. I was going to go with a Merc because 15 amp verse 14 amp but I can live without one amp and Mercury was considerably more. Some places $1000+ more. Besides Suzuki started out making industrial sewing machines with lots of machine parts that have to work together at high speed and long periods so making an outboard should be a piece of cake! Oh, and it can be pull started without removing the cowling or electrical power. So if I lose the battery or bad starter connections the motor can still be started.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Apr 27, 2018 1:53 pm
by Bogieman
Glad to see you received all your livewell materials! Build on OQ!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Apr 27, 2018 2:43 pm
by Fuzz
Orangequest make sure you know where the fuse is and have a spare. I have a 9.9 much like the Suzuki you have and a blown fuse is the only problem I have had with it. The dealer told me it was caused by a bad battery. Replaced the battery and never another problem but the fuse protects the whole motor and you can not pull start it if the main fuse is blown.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Apr 27, 2018 4:24 pm
by OrangeQuest
Fuzz wrote: Fri Apr 27, 2018 2:43 pm Orangequest make sure you know where the fuse is and have a spare. I have a 9.9 much like the Suzuki you have and a blown fuse is the only problem I have had with it. The dealer told me it was caused by a bad battery. Replaced the battery and never another problem but the fuse protects the whole motor and you can not pull start it if the main fuse is blown.
Oh, I don't have the motor yet. I am still budgeting for it, end of this year or start of next. But I will know every nut and bolt when I do get one. But thanks for the tip about a fuse.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Apr 27, 2018 5:14 pm
by OrangeQuest
Bogieman wrote: Fri Apr 27, 2018 1:53 pm Glad to see you received all your livewell materials! Build on OQ!
Thanks Boogieman! I may get off work by 2 tomorrow (Sat) and get something done on it. Work being so busy my work shop looks like wind demons came in and played with everything. Got five different venues going this weekend and one of them the mayor of Houston will be at, speech and all. We will be part of opening a new trail connecting another one. Kayaks for rent, should be a semi-slow day.

I still need to run tape down one stringer and up the transom knee. Fun stuff! :D

Have a great weekend!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Apr 27, 2018 5:23 pm
by Bogieman
All of that sounds like fun to me :D . Have a great weekend as well.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue May 08, 2018 8:16 pm
by OrangeQuest
Went in to work on my day off and finished up on taping the stringers all in. Also managed to get lines on the frame where the well bottoms will be on the frames. But ran out of time for anything else, manager meeting that lasted two hours, so put the boat back up.

I just measured 3" from the bottom edge of the frame to have a slope towards the center and that is where the live well drain will be. The smaller bait well will also slope to one corner of the well. I was thinking of putting the cleats in for the tank bottom and sides but just tacking the sides and bottom of the tanks in. Once the epoxy cures I can then pull the tank pieces out and it would make it easier to add fillets, tape and then glass both sides of the pieces. Heavy beads of epoxy glue on the cleats and slide the tanks back in. Then tape them on the inside to the frames. Then coat with neat blue tinted epoxy. The frames will be the front and back of the tank wells.

Now I know everyone says the bait fish are more relaxed with tinted blue walls and bottom but no one has said anything about the lids to the bait wells. I am at odds should I tint the lid solid blue, add white puffy clouds or should it be dark and add stars and maybe a moon! :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed May 09, 2018 12:13 am
by TomW1
OrangeQuest wrote: Tue May 08, 2018 8:16 pm Now I know everyone says the bait fish are more relaxed with tinted blue walls and bottom but no one has said anything about the lids to the bait wells. I am at odds should I tint the lid solid blue, add white puffy clouds or should it be dark and add stars and maybe a moon! :D

:lol: on the floor. Just make lids of plexiglass. :!: They can see the sky. :D :lol:

Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed May 09, 2018 6:14 am
by OrangeQuest
Tom you maybe the only person that reads my post or the only one that got the joke. :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed May 09, 2018 7:19 am
by Jeff
OrangeQuest, I always read your posts, just don't comment each time!! Good one on the bait fish!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed May 09, 2018 7:58 am
by OrangeQuest
Thanks Jeff. I see a lot of people view them but not to many say anything. I figure either they are tired of telling me I shouldn't do it that way or they see nothing wrong with my next step. So it is a coin toss! :D
Just hope the boat floats after I finish! 8O

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed May 09, 2018 8:12 am
by Jeff
OrangeQuest, and some of us are just learning!! That is why views with no comment or questions!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed May 09, 2018 9:36 am
by Bogieman
OrangeQuest wrote: Wed May 09, 2018 7:58 am Thanks Jeff. I see a lot of people view them but not to many say anything. I figure either they are tired of telling me I shouldn't do it that way or they see nothing wrong with my next step. So it is a coin toss! :D
Just hope the boat floats after I finish! 8O
:lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed May 09, 2018 11:22 am
by Capt UB
I got it, but someone handed me a doughnut..... Forgot what I was going to write back....

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed May 09, 2018 1:32 pm
by Fuzz
Not to worry, lots of us reading your posts.
We are just waiting for you to screw up so we can pounce like birds of prey :lol: :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed May 09, 2018 1:53 pm
by Bogieman
Fuzz wrote: Wed May 09, 2018 1:32 pm Not to worry, lots of us reading your posts.
We are just waiting for you to screw up so we can pounce like birds of prey :lol: :lol:
Yeah! What Fuzz said! And with all the plumbing involved in your bait well project (and if you're like me when it comes to plumbing) there should be plenty for you to muck up. :lol:

Build on OQ! We're with ya

Bogie

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed May 09, 2018 1:54 pm
by Bogieman
Capt UB wrote: Wed May 09, 2018 11:22 am I got it, but someone handed me a doughnut..... Forgot what I was going to write back....
I know all too well what doughnuts can do :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed May 09, 2018 3:13 pm
by OrangeQuest
Bogieman wrote: Wed May 09, 2018 1:53 pm
Fuzz wrote: Wed May 09, 2018 1:32 pm Not to worry, lots of us reading your posts.
We are just waiting for you to screw up so we can pounce like birds of prey :lol: :lol:
Yeah! What Fuzz said! And with all the plumbing involved in your bait well project (and if you're like me when it comes to plumbing) there should be plenty for you to muck up. :lol:

Build on OQ! We're with ya

Bogie
Thanks guys...I think! :D The plumbing only sounds hard but you think about it all I am doing is adding the second well to the supply and return lines via valves to control what gets what where. :doh:
Wait!? someone say donuts??

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed May 09, 2018 5:22 pm
by TomW1
Doughnuts, doughnuts. Where are the boat building police. :lol: :lol:

Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed May 09, 2018 5:26 pm
by Jaysen
Donuts or do-nots or dumb-nut?

The last one applies to me all the time...

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed May 09, 2018 5:36 pm
by Capt UB
This is what I have used.... You can use different tops for .... ;)
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.
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More room for beer and ice or coffee and donuts/doughnuts...

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed May 09, 2018 5:45 pm
by Jaysen
Keeping in mind that I’m typically catching bait right where I use said bait, I tend to just put the bait in a minnow trap (one for minnows, one for pinfish, one for mullet) and hang them over the side. Not as glorious, but they store and transport small. No plumbing to worry about. And take ZERO room away from beer storage.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu May 10, 2018 6:10 am
by OrangeQuest
After tossing bait in my beer cooler a few times there will be a dedicated beer cooler. There will also be a dry food locker that will be insulted...a place for warm donuts!

Right now working on the water works in the aft. Buckets and traps will not be in the building plans but there will be a place for the Pee-Can.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu May 10, 2018 8:00 pm
by TomW1
OrangeQuest wrote: Thu May 10, 2018 6:10 am After tossing bait in my beer cooler a few times there will be a dedicated beer cooler. There will also be a dry food locker that will be insulted...a place for warm donuts!

Right now working on the water works in the aft. Buckets and traps will not be in the building plans but there will be a place for the Pee-Can.
I'm glad you insult your food, I do to, it always seems to taste better. :lol: :lol: :lol: Especially when I take pulled pork sandwiches out with us. 8O

Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri May 11, 2018 4:04 am
by glossieblack
How goes the build OQ? Have you had a chance to progress since your last photo report?

Image

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri May 11, 2018 6:24 am
by OrangeQuest
Thanks for asking Glossieblack, the frame you are looing at in that picture is the front frame of the aft bench. There is another frame that goes behind it for a seat back. Right now most everything is being built in my head! 8O
2609

Under the bench will the live well and bait wells. They will also be used as ballast for when solo. I have been working out a plumbing issue with control valves for the pump that feeds the 2 tanks. The forum has advised not to use PVC valves, never liked the idea, and I needed something that would fit better and last longer. Banjo Corp. makes a poly 3-way valve that looks promising and due to cost over run on plumbing parts we are waiting for the May budget to come through. Ordering the steering assembly also.

Mean while I have been looking closer to the size of both tanks and fitting them under the bench. To get 15 gallon capacity and have a little air gap between the top of tank and hatch I am toying with raising the bench 2 more inches. (I know there is a nautical name for it but I'm not that nautical)
That would put the bench 12.5" above the sole but only a few inch clearance before being flush with the side and I may look more like a deck. Was already planning a gunwale but now considering adding a piece of coaming to fill that small gap from top of bench and gunwale. Wanting to get all that ironed out before going forward.

Work has been taking up most my time. I manage a kayak outfitter that keeps me jumping this time of year with summer coming up. My assistant hires employees and then I train them at all our locations. I introduce them to "WORK" for the first time in their young lives. Also my work shop is busy repairing, making gear and to cluttered with work junk to get anything laid out.

OQ

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri May 11, 2018 7:58 am
by OrangeQuest
Here is a picture of the raised frame mock up. My plans have always been to put in a gunwale and vertical frames but no coaming. But that short distance between the gunwale and the top of the bench begs to have one. I can terminate it just past the bench with inside radius. If I raise the fore deck to the same height that should balance it out look wise?

2998

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri May 11, 2018 8:45 am
by Capt UB
[quote=OrangeQuest post_id=422201 time=1526034241 user_id=81056]
Thanks for asking Glossieblack, the frame you are looing at in that picture is the front frame of the aft bench. There is another frame that goes behind it for a seat back. Right now most everything is being built in my head!

Yes I see it now just above your right ear.... ;)
the-empty-boat-chuang-tzu-tao-du-jour-wheres-your-head-pexels.jpg

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri May 11, 2018 9:32 am
by Bogieman
Nice OQ! It's amazing how much goes on in our brains when we're contemplating the build and how to make modifications etc. That job of yours sounds like a lot of work, but it sounds like it'd be more fun than work.

Bogie

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri May 11, 2018 9:48 am
by OrangeQuest
Thank Bogieman. My job is a lot of fun because I get to meet people that are wanting to have fun and as you guys can tell by my many posts I love talking to people. It is a very busy job with lots of planning and getting things ready. Being in the kayak business not a lot of time to paddle though and my health is starting to keep me from doing it anyway. No more distance paddles or fast pace stuff like guiding.

Capt.UB, most the time when I try to think nothing happens and if it does then there is smoke and all kinds of strange noises. :wink:


Nothing I am doing right now is drawn up or in any kind of plans and I have no idea what I am doing!! Just hope it floats when all is done.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri May 11, 2018 11:41 am
by Jaysen
Most frustrating part of running business is how little of it is about the product/service. You can’t ignore the maintenance of equipment, inventory management, accounts, regulators/compliance, and the evil evil evil HR stuff.

For about three minutes I thought about starting a guide shop. Then I realized there was nothing fun about making it so others can catch fish. 90% of that business is NOT fishing. Booo

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri May 11, 2018 12:43 pm
by Capt UB
Jaysen wrote: Fri May 11, 2018 11:41 am Most frustrating part of running business is how little of it is about the product/service. You can’t ignore the maintenance of equipment, inventory management, accounts, regulators/compliance, and the evil evil evil HR stuff.

For about three minutes I thought about starting a guide shop. Then I realized there was nothing fun about making it so others can catch fish. 90% of that business is NOT fishing. Booo


How true!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun May 13, 2018 6:41 am
by OrangeQuest
Jaysen wrote: Fri May 11, 2018 11:41 am Most frustrating part of running business is how little of it is about the product/service. You can’t ignore the maintenance of equipment, inventory management, accounts, regulators/compliance, and the evil evil evil HR stuff.

For about three minutes I thought about starting a guide shop. Then I realized there was nothing fun about making it so others can catch fish. 90% of that business is NOT fishing. Booo
Most the time my job is a lot of fun and I enjoy working with my hands and helping people enjoy what we do. I have a young woman that keeps track of everything, lets me know what needs doing and what time, so takes all that stress off me. Once employees are trained I get to go from venue to venue and check up on operations. I can even play with R/C sail boats and get paid doing it! I have to test them to make sure the fleet works ok.
When things slow I work on the boat. What is crazy though because the boat is at the warehouse when I go in to work on it I do "work" related stuff too.

Now back to the boat build!!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun May 13, 2018 6:56 am
by OrangeQuest
Since I am working on the stern of the boat and thinking that I am close to drilling the holes in the transom for the bilge drain and the tank pickup/drain: The hole for the pick up has to be a very specific size but for draining the bilge is there a standard size I should consider?
I don't plan on having my boat self bailing with scuppers above the sole. Any water that comes into the boat will drain to the bilge. Already have a pump/float switch and the control switch for it. But a drain is going in!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun May 13, 2018 10:56 am
by Capt UB
I built in a water tight/proof box; the floor drains, storage compartments, all go into it to the bilge pump . Transon thru hull plug is there too. I have a OB wiring boot above. A screw in clear deck access.

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Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun May 13, 2018 11:21 am
by Jeff
Nice UB!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun May 13, 2018 1:49 pm
by Capt UB
Jeff wrote: Sun May 13, 2018 11:21 amNice UB!! Jeff
Thanks Jeff.

The thing is this box goes all the way to the deck. I was thinking of OrangeQuest's setup. One place for all thru hull fittings. I forgot to take a shot before deck went on.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun May 13, 2018 8:08 pm
by OrangeQuest
Capt UB your boat is looking good! Other than paint what else do you need before splash?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri May 18, 2018 4:53 pm
by OrangeQuest
Capt UB I have been thinking on how I am going to get my cleats held in place for my tank wells and my motor splash well, they are to far away from the top for any of my clamps. The picture you posted of the paint stir sticks holding your cleat at your transom is the trick! I can use a single expanding bar clamp to hold a board at the bottom, then with strips of wood , like your stir sticks I can use bar clamps to hold the cleats in place as the epoxy glue cures. Thanks for the idea.

Just this week I got the plywood and some boards to get cleats built and some decking done. Been using a circular saw to cut boards to the right widths but the kerf takes away to much of the wood so may be getting a small band saw this weekend to save on wood. Priced some yellow cedar while I was at the lumber yard and they need to call it gold cedar!! 8O Close to $10.00 a board foot! Had to drop down to poplar for my cleats. Was cheaper than box store hardware store and picked out a few boards that were knot free and good straight grain. With a band saw I should have more than enough for the boat.

Had a little free time and started cutting out holes in the back frame for the well drain access and flow nozzles. Measured the dimensions for the tank bottoms but work got busy before I could cut anymore stuff!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri May 18, 2018 7:06 pm
by Fuzz
First coat your cleats with epoxy and let it dry. Use wood flour glue but leave a couple small spots clear. You can use hot glue on the bare spots. Surprising how well the hot glue will hold. This may or may not be easier than doing the clamp thing.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri May 18, 2018 7:26 pm
by OrangeQuest
Fuzz wrote: Fri May 18, 2018 7:06 pm First coat your cleats with epoxy and let it dry. Use wood flour glue but leave a couple small spots clear. You can use hot glue on the bare spots. Surprising how well the hot glue will hold. This may or may not be easier than doing the clamp thing.
Thanks for the advice Fuzz! Hot glue and I have never got along very well. It hardens on one end before I get to the other! I was looking at using the clamping thing on the splash well. Figured a little alignment piece on the strip will quickly get the cleat in the right place. The cleats for the tank wells I was going to glue them in while the frames are still on the work bench. Once the frames are seamed in put the tank bottoms and sides in. Tab the tanks just on the middle edges so I can pull the assemblies back out and build the seams with the tanks on the bench. The front and back of the tanks are the boat frames. When I finish the tanks tape them into the boat. 6oz. glass and light blue colored epoxy to finish them off.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri May 18, 2018 7:53 pm
by Fuzz
Personally I found the cleats to be a pita. I knew I wanted to raise the floor in my dory a little so I just cut a dado in some 2x and dropped that over the stringers. Fast, easy and did the trick :wink:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri May 18, 2018 10:33 pm
by willg
I used the hot glue method extensively. It works great and is a lot easier than clamps. Also, it makes it less likely that your epoxy glue will squeeze out than with clamps.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat May 19, 2018 6:09 am
by OrangeQuest
Fuzz wrote: Fri May 18, 2018 7:53 pm Personally I found the cleats to be a pita. I knew I wanted to raise the floor in my dory a little so I just cut a dado in some 2x and dropped that over the stringers. Fast, easy and did the trick :wink:
That does give me an :idea: Since I already blown the budget on 1"X4" that was going to be cut to 1"X1" when I wet out the cleats I can glue a short piece of a tongue depressor on each end and middle. That would keep the cleat even with the top of the frame/stringer. Apply the glue to the sides of the cleats and use clamps only on the short piece of wood to press the cleats together and better control squeeze out. When the glue is cured sand the tongue depressors off.
willg wrote: Fri May 18, 2018 10:33 pm I used the hot glue method extensively. It works great and is a lot easier than clamps. Also, it makes it less likely that your epoxy glue will squeeze out than with clamps.
Your boat looks great Willg!

I may use the hot glue method on the cheats that have to be in the middle of something like the splash well. I used super glue to hold frames and stringers together while epoxy cured when building R/C boats. Made the job a lot easier and faster. All the stuff was 1/16" to 1/8" dimensions with sheets of ply even thinner..

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat May 19, 2018 9:17 am
by pee wee
willg wrote: Fri May 18, 2018 10:33 pm I used the hot glue method extensively. It works great and is a lot easier than clamps. Also, it makes it less likely that your epoxy glue will squeeze out than with clamps.
Hot glue and hot glue guns can work very well, but like many things there are a variety of pitfalls. Many glue guns sold for crafts don't get hot enough, so the glue is barely melted and doesn't give you much time to work. The "better" guns use a temperature of over 350 degrees F. and have enough power and mass to put out a quantity of glue quickly. You should be able to get a decent gun that uses 1/2" sticks; they make larger sizes for production work.

With a good glue gun you should be okay with run of the mill glue, but again, there is a wide spectrum of hot melt adhesives available if you need some special traits. I spoke with a "hot melt glue engineer" at a trade show and came away with the understanding that you can get quick grab temporary bonds or long open times or permanent assembly strengths, etc. depending on what you need.

One downside to using hot glue is the danger of getting some on yourself, it sticks, and it's hot! By the time you can pull it off your hand the skin comes with the glue. Ask me how I know! :roll:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon May 21, 2018 5:30 pm
by OrangeQuest
So today is my day off but went in to work on the boat. Picked up a cheap 9" band saw to cut the poplar to 3/4" cleats. After indexing the table, adjusting the guides, bearings and tensioning the band I cut a few test pieces. The boards I got need to run through a joiner but they are close enough for what I will be using them for. Will be making a few "accessories" the band saw didn't come with to make better cuts but it is getting the job done. The boards I cut have saw marks that should help with the epoxy glue holding with little chance of to much squeeze out.

With a few boards I mocked up the area the plumbing hardware will be going. The pump and the V3 valve will be located in the bilge using the transom knee to mount them on. opposite side of the bilge the other knee will have the drain control valve and flow control valves. They will be offset and stacked for easier access. The bait well and the control locker on port and almost all chase tubes will come out of center to a starboard battery locker. Once I get the steering and shift control cables they may be routed under the gunwale. Nothing on paper but that is the way it is mapped out in my head.

Following the deadrise of the bottom I measured 4" up to align the tank cleats. That clears the stringers and gives .25" more for the plywood bottoms of the tanks. Measured and marked both frames that the tanks will go between. Also gives me a little more clearance at the drains. Didn't cut any cleats to length and didn't wet anything. Want to wet out everything, let get tacky, glass and then lay the cheats where they need to go and let the weight of the cheats be the squeeze out. After the frames cure I will then tape them in. I can see a lot of things I can screw up at this stage. 8O So I stopped and had a beer.

Wanted to get back on my side of Houston before traffic got to bad. Read where Cracker Larry had cut a hole in the wrong spot and to fix it he cut the hole in the right spot and used masking tape and the cut out for the hole to fill in the wrong hole. I am testing his fix. I may or may not have had the same issue. :oops: It may be an easy way to cut holes oversize, cover the cut out with release agent and fill in the gap. before cure pull out the plug.

OQ

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon May 21, 2018 6:17 pm
by glossieblack
Interesting idea to test. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed May 23, 2018 4:43 pm
by OrangeQuest
Tour was rained out today so got a little free time!!

So I have been wanting to cut the holes in all my frames before taping the frames in. But instead of cutting the holes I just drilled all the pilot holes for the hole saw after stacking the frames up, in order, and offset a little so the chase tubes will slop to the bilge. Only put 4 in for now, drain from lockers in front, two for wiring and one for fuel line. Transducer will run under the gunwale and so will the cables for controls. Next few weeks I'll get some 14 gauge wire and see how many times I can fold it and still get it into a 3/4" thin wall PVC tube.

Wetted out the two frames that will be used for the tank wells. Also wetted the cleats. Will be putting 6oz glass on the tank sides and while the epoxy is still wet glue down the cleats. Hope to do that in the morning!

3054

Next step the frames get taped in!!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed May 23, 2018 5:06 pm
by Eric1
Nice!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu May 24, 2018 9:07 am
by OrangeQuest
It is done! To late to reject the plan, we are going ahead!!
3058
Just waiting for it to cure, rough sanding and taping them in the boat!!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu May 24, 2018 9:49 am
by Capt UB
OrangeQuest wrote: Thu May 24, 2018 9:07 am It is done! To late to reject the plan, we are going ahead!!
3058
Just waiting for it to cure, rough sanding and taping them in the boat!!

I once glued my coffee cup to my hull on my Spira boat build.... Oh, and a beer can too.....

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu May 24, 2018 4:33 pm
by OrangeQuest
You can't see the marks I left on the still wet cloth when I laid my mixing cup on it, TWICE! :oops: :oops:

Thinking that before I tape these frames in they are going to get glass on the other side as well. There is enough time in a work day to wet it in the morning and then glass by noon tomorrow. Saturday I drive for a tour so will have a few hours to rough sand before taping them in. The glass holds another 80 grams of epoxy and both these frames will see wear. Feels good to start building the aft section of the boat.

Also working on the plumbing. Trying to keep hose runs as short as possible but will have two running the width of the bilge, still working on getting the pump, V3 valve and the two 3-way valves all mounted together.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri May 25, 2018 11:38 am
by OrangeQuest
Read that Cracker Larry (RIP) had cut a hole in the wrong spot. He cut another hole in the correct spot but taped the cut out into the wrong hole to fill it in. Epoxied it in and it worked great. Here is what my patch looks like using the same method.

3059

Works so well I moved the hole twice!! 8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri May 25, 2018 12:08 pm
by Capt UB
Looks good and strong.


I used the same to put back the CnC cut out of the opening for hatches.
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Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri May 25, 2018 1:36 pm
by OrangeQuest
Looks like it worked good for you too!! Capt UB!!

All my frames from midship aft are wet out and waiting to cure up. The plans call for 2 frames counting the aft-middle bench frame and the front aft bench frame. The two aft frames form the tank wells' front and back. The two frames heading towards midship are going to go under the sole with in wale frames to the gunwale lined up with them. All frames are no more than 27" apart. Waiting till I get a better idea of how the motor weight will effect trim of the boat before trying to cut the frames for the console and foredeck. Getting the back of the boat done is where we are at for now. Trying to keep 7' from aft deck to the fore deck. Hope to start on taping the frames in this weekend!!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri May 25, 2018 3:11 pm
by Eric1
Dude, You are Kicking butt! :)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri May 25, 2018 6:31 pm
by OrangeQuest
Eric1 wrote: Fri May 25, 2018 3:11 pm Dude, You are Kicking butt! :)
Thanks Eric! Looks like you got some work done today too!

I am really liking the 6oz cloth, so much easier to lay and wet than the 12oz. Blowing through "Solo" cups like crazy. Only mixing a little at a time. Also like that I got fast and medium hardener on my last order. For wetting out the plywood I used fast and a 6" roller then after it tacked up switched to medium to lay the cloth and again spread with roller but squeegeed with a big silicone spatula. I like the results. So much easier when everything is laying flat on a workbench! Can hardly wait to start building the tank wells.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat May 26, 2018 7:33 am
by Jeff
Sounds like you are really moving quickly now OrangeQuest!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat May 26, 2018 6:51 pm
by glossieblack
OrangeQuest wrote: Fri May 25, 2018 6:31 pm I am really liking the 6oz cloth, so much easier to lay and wet than the 12oz.
I'm with you. I enjoy sing 6oz whereas I find 12 oz a chore.

Your build is nicely thought out, and looks great. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat May 26, 2018 9:36 pm
by OrangeQuest
glossieblack wrote: Sat May 26, 2018 6:51 pm
OrangeQuest wrote: Fri May 25, 2018 6:31 pm I am really liking the 6oz cloth, so much easier to lay and wet than the 12oz.
I'm with you. I enjoy sing 6oz whereas I find 12 oz a chore.

Your build is nicely thought out, and looks great. :D
Thank you, I am learning from all the builders on here. Long ways to go though.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun May 27, 2018 5:39 am
by OrangeQuest
Spent Saturday morning rough sanding frames, stringers and inside bottom of the hull to start taping in the frames. Morning started in the mid 70's so comfortable but was wearing shorts and a tee shirt. To hot for any protective clothing but started to sweat. Fiberglass dust was sticking to me! Tacked in the rear frame and tucked the boat back away. Still feel the fiberglass in my skin Sunday morning! :(

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun May 27, 2018 10:04 am
by Jeff
OrangeQuest, I fully understand the heat but you MUST wear the appropriate safety gear!! Doing a great job!! Love the comments on the stress free bait tank!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun May 27, 2018 10:37 am
by OrangeQuest
Jeff wrote: Sun May 27, 2018 10:04 am OrangeQuest, I fully understand the heat but you MUST wear the appropriate safety gear!! Doing a great job!! Love the comments on the stress free bait tank!! Jeff
Yes! I think sweating a few hours in my painter's suit would be better than the needles in my arms feeling! Thanks Jeff.

Today, no sanding but still tried to come to work early and get 4 hours of making pretty fillets and wetting tape. Opened both warehouse doors and turned on the big shop fan. Temp was in a comfy 78deg till about 9 this morning. Measured and the tape for the first aft frame from transom and president started texting me and would not stop!! My work day starts at 10 this morning and will be only a few hours. Would have been perfect wait time for the fillets to set up. Not going to try and start doing fillets when someone keeps texting. :x So put the boat back up. Each frame will be 6 pieces of tape. I fold do the length of the tape and cut half through for all the corners. The tape will overlap there so should still be a strong bond. Since I am not going to have tacky fillets when I get off the tape will stay folded weighed down so the cress will stay better. Found it easier to lay the tape in just kicking neat epoxy with the cress against the fillet and then open it to the frame. wet the vertical first and then the horizontal. But it will all have to wait now. Labeled all the tape with sticky notes on location before stacking and putting weight on them.
3063

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon May 28, 2018 6:07 am
by OrangeQuest
Big tour today so not much free time to take everything out. May just tack in the next frame so I can cut the 1/4" plywood for the tanks' bottom and sides. If I can get some epoxy glue on that stuff I can then take the tanks out and work on them on the work bench. Steal an hour here and there and then wait for things to cure. Waiting for some longer stainless bolts and nuts to come in to start making the valves' mounts. Ordered my 3 pin bilge pump connectors and some other 2 pin connectors.

Was at Home Depot looking all different shower drains, sink drains and some PVC screens that go on a PVC fitting and trying to come up with sole drains. I want them to be large enough to trap most everything but not clog easy. Not really sure how to get a good seal of a drain pipe at the sole and still have a flush mount cover. Recess the opening so the pipe can be sealed after the sole is taped, cloth and painted?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon May 28, 2018 11:38 am
by Jeff
Nice organization OrangeQuest!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 01, 2018 6:14 am
by OrangeQuest
Thursday was a day off work so I went in to start laying the tape. Aft frame I put spacers under it a few days ago and raised it off the hull for any hard spots. Started filleting and I was pushing putty from one side to the other so pretty much filleted both sides of the frame at the same time. Once the putty was forced under the gaps I would form the fillets with my silicone spoon decreasing pressure and increasing angle till about 80 degrees of the corners and the tip just bending. Once the fillets got stiff I added neat epoxy then laid the tape still creased, unfolding as it stuck to the wet epoxy.

Tried using a chip brush and hold my mixing cup but couldn't get the tape wet enough before I could feel the epoxy kicking so switched to the roller. My arms are also big enough to take up what little space there was to reach down into the bottom of the boat, between frame and transom. Roller made it so much faster and easier to get an even spread. With the warehouse reaching mid 90's even the medium hardener was kicking pretty fast so getting the epoxy down and spread needed to happen fast. 1/4" nap roller and small diameter 3" roller did the trick. Stopped on the way home and picked up some more. Little nap fuzz in the epoxy but that should help the foam stick better! Sweat was my enemy! It would start dripping out of my gloves!

While waiting for the fillets to get a little stiff I finished cutting and drilling the 3 way valve mount. The one inch longer bolts came in but looks like I only needed 1/2" longer. Will have to cut more threads on the bolts and then cut off the extra, no biggie. The mount will be epoxied to the side and bottom of the boat. The other 3 way valve will be higher and glued to the stringer, after light sanding. Then the compartment will be "painted" with tinted neat epoxy. I think after I finish each compartment it will get a thin layer of tinted epoxy just to make sure no missed spots.
OQ

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 01, 2018 6:37 am
by glossieblack
Your build is nicely thought out OQ. She's going to be a nice boat. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 01, 2018 8:29 am
by OrangeQuest
glossieblack wrote: Fri Jun 01, 2018 6:37 am Your build is nicely thought out OQ. She's going to be a nice boat. :D
Thank you! If only I knew what I was doing!! :lol: All of you guys that have a boat or two, or a lot more under your belts, is what keeps me from straying off to far.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jun 05, 2018 9:38 am
by Bogieman
glossieblack wrote: Fri Jun 01, 2018 6:37 am Your build is nicely thought out OQ. She's going to be a nice boat. :D
I agree. A lot of technical stuff going on here :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jun 05, 2018 12:46 pm
by OrangeQuest
All work on my boat came to a halt last Friday. A customer is racing in the Texas Safari this Saturday and has been busting his boat up pretty badly. It's a Stellar Excel tandem. I patched most the bottom up a few weeks ago as a favor to the company using my own supplies but as of Friday he wants me t patch all the cracks and scratches up and then lay 4oz glass over the bottom of the boat. 8O I repeatedly told him there was not enough time to do all that and it would look like crap. He just wants it protected. And I don't have a clue how to do such a job.

Sunday started sanding the bottom to rough up all the new areas that need patching and so the epoxy will stick. As the day heated up water started coming out some of the cracks!! :o So I stopped and let it "drain" Monday I came in to start the work. Mixed epoxy putty and filled in the cracks and low spots. Went straight into wetting the bottom and laying the glass, lucky I spent Sunday cutting the glass. 12oz glass on each end, 9oz on the most damaged areas where the boat is the flattest. Then overlapped the 12oz. and 9oz with 3.25oz the length of the bottom. All done in one day with no stopping till all done. Trimmed and rough sanded everything today and coated with white tinted neat epoxy. NO FAIRING or nothing! Just quick sanding with 80 grit so the epoxy would hopefully stick. May have time to sand the sand and dust out of the epoxy but the picks it up tomorrow at 3. Thinking he may have a mold of the bottom of his boat when all said and done!

I am billing my company for my supplies and then some. I may post a picture of it tomorrow before he picks it up.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jun 05, 2018 1:32 pm
by TomW1
Your a good man OC. :!: Those kayaks are pretty top of the line.

Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jun 05, 2018 6:48 pm
by OrangeQuest
TomW1 wrote: Tue Jun 05, 2018 1:32 pm Your a good man OC. :!: Those kayaks are pretty top of the line.

Tom
Thank you Tom but I have only what I have got done on my build and a few R/C hulls when it comes to working with fiberglass and resin. If nothing else I may have gave it a little strength where it was giving way. And yes, the boat was worth a few $$ when he bought it new this year but looks very beat up from running over rocks and who knows what else. The race is over 300 miles and the river it is on is very low this year.

From what I understand the boat is gel coat outer layer, honeycomb core with Kevlar in the mix somewhere. The gel coat was cracked open all over and the core was soaking up water. No time to let it dry so we will see.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jun 05, 2018 8:33 pm
by TomW1
Yea those kayaks are not meant to hit rocks. I live just above the NOC where the last Junior World Kayak Championships were held. I also worked for one of the companies on the river that rented rafts and kayaks to people. So I know a little about those dang things are built. Not a lot of fun when they are hitting rocks. :D

Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jun 06, 2018 1:52 am
by Fuzz
Careful OQ or everyone will be bringing you broken stuff to be repaired. Worst thing I ever got into was a 17foot Boston Whaler. Guy had left it tied to a piling with no fenders. It had about a full foot of its nose beat off and wanted me to repair it. :help:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jun 06, 2018 6:38 am
by OrangeQuest
Fuzz wrote: Wed Jun 06, 2018 1:52 am Careful OQ or everyone will be bringing you broken stuff to be repaired. Worst thing I ever got into was a 17foot Boston Whaler. Guy had left it tied to a piling with no fenders. It had about a full foot of its nose beat off and wanted me to repair it. :help:
Some how I get into these kinds of messes. Sometimes need to try and fix the person and their thinking!!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jun 06, 2018 9:51 am
by OrangeQuest
This is the latest mess my boss got me into. Gel coat all cracked up everywhere and in some places can push it in with light pressure.
3085
After finished laying glass and rough sanding, two fast coats of tinted neat epoxy.
3086
Wet sanded to knock out the sand, dust and roller pieces from rolling over tacky epoxy
3087

All the brown is wood flour blended in the epoxy to make putty and fairing all in one. After getting the putty on I wetted out the whole bottom and started laying the glass. Some places as much as 3 layers. Only had one big air bubble, 1.5" dia., and one even smaller. Used pressure from the rollers to flatten the putty out more! 8O
3088

Could sand it more but chicks like a rough finish! 8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jun 07, 2018 10:44 am
by Bogieman
:D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 08, 2018 6:16 am
by OrangeQuest
Customer picked up his kayak yesterday and seemed happy enough, he needed me to fix his kayak "J" bracket that holds it to his roof rack. Advised as to how he SHOULD use the "J" bracket and how to tie the boat down but didn't want to change his method. Oh well. Race is this weekend and I'll get a report of how well they did Tuesday. Transporting boats is my job!!

Back to my build now....I hope. The tape I cut, folded up and labeled is now a mess and may have to recut. They had been moved a few times to access stuff they were on. A few other company projects also didn't help. Hoping to get the boat out today and then again on Sunday and get the frames done!! At lease the two that I have the tape ready for!!! :cry: :cry:
Because I worked 4 of my days off in a roll and stayed at work long after I should go home, so today is OQ day!!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 08, 2018 7:57 am
by Eric1
Enjoy the day my Friend!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 08, 2018 10:25 pm
by Bogieman
:D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jun 10, 2018 5:33 pm
by OrangeQuest
Was able to drag my boat out of it's storage spot long enough to finish taping the other side of the rear most frame. No matter what I did I seem to keep getting epoxy all over my arms when I was reaching in to make sure the next frame was in the correct alignment. It started getting hot so before I screwed up anymore of the wet tape I put it away. No easy way to support the next frame and it needs to be exact alignment. I cut four boards the exact space from the aft frame. Made sure it was square with the stringers and the hull so the next frame needs to be square to it. I don't want to rely on the notches alone. Once the frame is tacked in and I can remove all the clamps I will sleep easier. Between these two frames go the tanks. The floors and sides will be tacked and removed to tape and glass the underside of them. They will then be reinstalled and taped to the frames. No access to the underside afterwards. All chase tubes, but the drain tube, will turn to starboard under the tanks and come out the "electrical locker?"

Anyone have any thoughts on this crazy plan speak up, I will be moving forward other wise.

OQ

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jun 10, 2018 9:01 pm
by OrangeQuest
The paddlers dropped out of the race (at 80 miles into the race) but from what they said the boat repairs held up.
Not bad for learning to paddle a few months ago.

3086

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jun 12, 2018 2:36 pm
by OrangeQuest
Ok, after a 2 week stall back to the FS14. Here is where I am at, this is the aft and forward well frames. You can see I have the cleats already attached. That is because I wanted to glass the frames before the cleats and I wanted to glue the in without any pressure other than the weight of the cleats. After making sure the hull was level I checked the level of the cleats. There is less than a 1 degree angle towards the stern, should have no problems when need them to drain.

3138

Next will be to cut the plywood for the bottoms, sides and the divider for the two tanks. Was thinking for the bait well lining the sides, bottom and lid with 3/4" sheet foam and then another layer of glass. Would be the easiest way to have the rounded corners. Thoughts?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jun 13, 2018 8:55 am
by Bogieman
Looking good OQ. Glad you found some time to work on her.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jun 13, 2018 9:05 am
by OrangeQuest
Wait till you see what I did this morning while the warehouse was still in the high 80s.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jun 13, 2018 9:17 am
by OrangeQuest
For two hours I measured, cut and then glued up the walls of the tank wells. After the glue has cured I pull them out as an assembly and start working on them on the work bench. Shouldn't be but a few days, maybe a week to get them ready to glue back in permanently!!

3141

Bottom of picture is the transom with the control valve locker on the left and the aux bilge in the center. Bait well is the smaller one and the live well in the center.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jun 13, 2018 10:18 am
by glossieblack
Bespoke design-build. 8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jun 13, 2018 7:31 pm
by OrangeQuest
The walls were stiff enough to remove before I left work but are setting over night to be sure. First thing in the morning I will start work on lowering the bottom for the drains. There will be a lot of test fitting to make sure to maintain clearance and I can still disconnect the drain lines for service.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jun 14, 2018 10:01 am
by OrangeQuest
Ok, epoxy glue cured very well overnight and I pulled it all out this morning. Cut the two drain holes out and cut the spacers for the drain screens. I did a last minute design change and just doing two layers of 6mm plywood for the spacers and that's it. In my head it makes sense to cut these holes before I glass everything in.

Here is a picture of the walls and bottoms out and on the work bench. The orange 5 gallon bucket is for scale. The bait well will have 3 large curved corners and the corn where the drain is will fit the contour of the drain screen.

3142

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jun 14, 2018 10:37 am
by Bogieman
You are clicking right along now, OQ. Looking good.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jun 14, 2018 1:03 pm
by Capt UB
What do you plan on covering/painting the inside of the tanks with?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jun 14, 2018 5:20 pm
by OrangeQuest
Capt UB wrote: Thu Jun 14, 2018 1:03 pm What do you plan on covering/painting the inside of the tanks with?
Before I can put the tanks in I have to run my chase tubes. They will turn under the live well and exit in a starboard locker that will have the electrical. Chase tubes for steering and shift controls will be under the gunwale. Have to mount the pump also to make sure the chase tubes clear it.

Anyway, Thinking tinted epoxy. I used white tinted epoxy on the kayak I just finished repairing and it was very translucent. So I don't know if that is the route I am taking, may look better before during and after the cloth.. May even look into adding color flakes into the epoxy if I can find a solid enough color. But for the most part it will be epoxy and cloth.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jun 14, 2018 6:02 pm
by Capt UB
OrangeQuest wrote: Thu Jun 14, 2018 5:20 pm
Capt UB wrote: Thu Jun 14, 2018 1:03 pm What do you plan on covering/painting the inside of the tanks with?
Before I can put the tanks in I have to run my chase tubes. They will turn under the live well and exit in a starboard locker that will have the electrical. Chase tubes for steering and shift controls will be under the gunwale. Have to mount the pump also to make sure the chase tubes clear it.

Anyway, Thinking tinted epoxy. I used white tinted epoxy on the kayak I just finished repairing and it was very translucent. So I don't know if that is the route I am taking, may look better before during and after the cloth.. May even look into adding color flakes into the epoxy if I can find a solid enough color. But for the most part it will be epoxy and cloth.
I was thinking polyester gelcoat. All my bait/livewells in my Scouts (they were a few years old) held up well and cleaned easily. I never tried epoxy with color before. Tell me the mix when you got it down.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jun 14, 2018 9:11 pm
by OrangeQuest
Since I am getting closer to start laying down the sole and the wash board decks in the stern I was thinking of using system 3 to prime and paint everything. Taking the colors off the motor I still need to get.
2795
Bainbridge white being the decks and Orcas white the hull. Vashon gray for inside the lockers and inside sides.
Opps! Got side tracked! But I may use the Shaw blue for the tank wells. With 4oz bottles being only $7.00 I may mix a few.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 15, 2018 1:17 am
by Fuzz
Lots of folks have trouble getting gelcoat to stick to epoxy. If you do try it I would do a small spot that is easy to grind off as a test. I have found you need at least three coats of tinted epoxy for it to look decent.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 15, 2018 6:04 am
by OrangeQuest
Fuzz wrote: Fri Jun 15, 2018 1:17 am Lots of folks have trouble getting gelcoat to stick to epoxy. If you do try it I would do a small spot that is easy to grind off as a test. I have found you need at least three coats of tinted epoxy for it to look decent.
Thanks Fuzz. I have read over and over again that polyester gelcoat does not work well over epoxy but that epoxy can be used to repair polyester gelcoat with enough rough sanding. My concern is the corners will be shaped with white Styrofoam and then the wood on the sides. I may not get them covered enough so it looks tacky. I am trying to keep my bait fish calm before they are bait and their last moments should not be in a tacky tank.
Once the tanks are glued in I was going to use tinted epoxy for the wet out, then tinted epoxy to wet the glass and then maybe one more of tinted after sanding and then see what it looks like. But the more I think about it I will need to already start painting the areas that will be getting the plumbing and under the sole where the chase tubes will be run. I may have to order system 3 primer and a few bottles of 4oz paint to get started!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 15, 2018 7:08 am
by Capt UB
Learning something every day..... Don't use Gelcoat in a bait/live well!

This is a good read,

https://epoxyworks.com/index.php/polyester-over-epoxy/

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 15, 2018 2:10 pm
by OrangeQuest
Little more work on the tank wells. Other than prepping and glassing the back not much left to do to them. Looks like I need to get me some chase tubes ran and some paint!! Here is me dropping the drain screen so water will drain all out. Even though the drain itself has channels cut in it I think this will work better for removing all the water.

3143
I love my through bolts and wing nut clamps. I put the spacers on and with epoxy glue they will not come loose. With the wing nuts I tighten then down till I got good squeeze out and I could see small air bubbles being squeezed out too. Because I had to cut two 1/4" pieces of plywood the size of the screen and then align it all I cut a short piece of pool noodle to act as the alignment spacer. Cut it a little long and as I tighten the wing nut it kept the glue from squeezing to much into the holes. May get to wet it all out tomorrow due to a 100% chance of rain, I may be stuck at the warehouse!! :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 15, 2018 2:42 pm
by OrangeQuest
Still need to clearance the far one but this is how the drain screens will be. I will be able to remove the screens and plug if needed.

3144

I am going to try and get these ready for re-install by Monday. But they rest in the boat at night.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 15, 2018 3:26 pm
by Capt UB
Looking good man!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jun 16, 2018 6:06 am
by OrangeQuest
OrangeQuest wrote: Fri Jun 15, 2018 2:10 pm May get to wet it all out tomorrow due to a 100% chance of rain, I may be stuck at the warehouse!! :D
Within a few hours last night the Houston area forecast went from 100% down to less than 20% and now this morning it is back up to a 54% chance around noon! What the heck? Great forecasting !! Just a few days ago we had a flash flood without warning. Streets were flooded and so much water fell that it was coming out of the storm drains in some areas. Heavy rain for less than 30 minutes. Roller coaster forecasting sucks. :?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jun 16, 2018 6:41 am
by Capt UB
Sounds like Central Florida!!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jun 16, 2018 7:33 am
by Jeff
Yes OrangeQuest, I agree with Captain UB, sounds like Florida forecasting!! Have a good weekend, Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jun 16, 2018 7:38 pm
by OrangeQuest
Well, had to work all day and we had a little sprinkle off and on early in the day then it got hot, then cloudy and the wind kicked up, then sunny and no wind, then cloudy and no wind. One venue closed at one more south of Houston closed at 1:00 due to weather and no one at the park. Summer is here. Oh and every time the wind blow it was in a different direction. Blowing from the east enough to push water back into the bayou, it rose a foot or more.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jun 17, 2018 8:47 am
by Bogieman
:D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jun 17, 2018 11:50 am
by OrangeQuest
Bogieman wrote: Sun Jun 17, 2018 8:47 am:D
Glad to here you had some good weather for a change and you got some build time in, and it paid off!

Today I canceled all venues do to a crazy forecast and then it has been raining off and on this morning. I was worried that I called everything off due to wanting to spend some time on the build, but it really did rain so no guilt.

So I wet out the inside and walls of the tank wells and laid the tape on all the inside seams. Next will be to flip it and do the same to, what will be the underside and the sides, but will also add 3.5oz cloth. Once cured I think I will rough sand and add a coat of neat epoxy just to make sure all is sealed on the underside. I am thinking of waiting till the whole thing is glued in to add the curved corners and then Glass the curves in for a very clean look. Still thinking of how to cut the curves in Styrofoam! :doh: :help:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jun 17, 2018 1:19 pm
by Bogieman
OrangeQuest wrote: Sun Jun 17, 2018 11:50 am
Bogieman wrote: Sun Jun 17, 2018 8:47 am:D
Glad to here you had some good weather for a change and you got some build time in, and it paid off!

...Today I canceled all venues do to a crazy forecast and then it has been raining off and on this morning. I was worried that I called everything off due to wanting to spend some time on the build, but it really did rain so no guilt...

So I wet out the inside and walls of the tank wells and laid the tape on all the inside seams. Next will be to flip it and do the same to, what will be the underside and the sides, but will also add 3.5oz cloth. Once cured I think I will rough sand and add a coat of neat epoxy just to make sure all is sealed on the underside. I am thinking of waiting till the whole thing is glued in to add the curved corners and then Glass the curves in for a very clean look. Still thinking of how to cut the curves in Styrofoam! :doh: :help:
...Today I canceled all venues do to a crazy forecast and then it has been raining off and on this morning. I was worried that I called everything off due to wanting to spend some time on the build, but it really did rain so no guilt... :lol: Well, in this case I'm happy for you that it rained.

Sounds like you have a good plan moving forward. I've always enjoyed building the fillets and taping the seams. For me it is my favorite part of building. Anyway, I have never worked with styrofoam so no advice here. It's pretty amazing just how much can be done to a 14 foot boat and it's neat to see what creative folks like you will do to the blank canvas.

Build on OQ!

OH, and P.S. Happy Father's Day (if you're a dad that is). And... my girls threw some cash in my father's day cards and gave me enough to purchase my flotation foam :D which is very exciting! I'll be ordering 3 gallons tomorrow.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jun 17, 2018 2:15 pm
by OrangeQuest
Happy Father's Day Bogie!! And all the other Dads!

I can make a hot knife that will cut Styrofoam like butter but I don't know how I can make curves with it, tall curves! Maybe a turn table, a vertical wire and send it through at 90 degrees only. The hot knife needs to be more than 12" in height, that will be the easy part!! 8O Looks like I need my inventors hat. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jun 18, 2018 12:34 pm
by OrangeQuest
So yesterday I sand, sand and sanded till I was dripping with sweat! I also filleted and taped the walls of the wells. Little sanding and I will be done on this side and then flip and do the blind side. Notice the cavities the screens go in. The screens are flush so 100% of the water should drain.

3174

It is Monday, 4 A.M. forecast was 3" to 5" of rain before noon. It has only sprinkled here and there. The forecast made me stay home (day off)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jun 18, 2018 3:48 pm
by Eric1
Yea Bro, It's hot up here too. Your work is looking good.
I've been scraping tape today. I have a 8 foot section left but I'm tapped. 87 degree in the shop. :roll:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jun 18, 2018 9:18 pm
by OrangeQuest
Yeah, I call it beer o'clock when the temps reach 95 or higher. I'll close the doors and call it a day in the warehouse. Pushing to get a fan by Northern Tool that moves over 17000CFM!! The rain kept the temperature down below 90 Sunday.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jun 19, 2018 6:50 pm
by Capt UB
OC, I'll pick you up by water!! 8)

At this time... I will be done with my boat sometime durning the first week of July!

I am told we will have 9 days off!! If true, fairing sanding painting electrical SPLASH.

Rain or shine..... 8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jun 19, 2018 8:47 pm
by TomW1
Can't wait. Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jun 19, 2018 9:25 pm
by OrangeQuest
Capt UB wrote: Tue Jun 19, 2018 6:50 pm OC, I'll pick you up by water!! 8)

At this time... I will be done with my boat sometime durning the first week of July!

I am told we will have 9 days off!! If true, fairing sanding painting electrical SPLASH.

Rain or shine..... 8)
That is good news!!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jun 19, 2018 10:32 pm
by OrangeQuest
After laying 4oz tape on the underside of the tank well assembly today and leaving to cure over night I will sand and then should be ready to glue in. But it will just get laid in place so I can start measuring and cutting hose to fit. I have also been sanding the lockers for the valves and pump so I can glue their respective mounts in. The "well works" will then be test fitted then removed and labeled so the lockers can be painted.

To speed up the build I have been looking at hatches. I have two sizes that I like for the wells and once I measure may get the same kind for the washboard hatches. I have also been looking at wire. They sell triplex which will work for the 3 pumps in the back, 2 of the pumps needing 3 wires and the tank well pump will use the 3rd wire to control the well lights. 3/14 wire should be more than enough and they will get their own chase tube. Then a chase tube for the engine harness and a duplex wire for the anchor light. One more chase tube for the fuel line and that's it for the chase tubes. Still not sure if I want to have one extra chase tube for future whatever. For those paying attention the shift cables and the steering cable will be routed out the console side, under the step toward the side and then be tucked under the gunwale. Transducer wire may take the same path.

After all this is done the back half the boat will be also. After that the boat should be ready to do a float test to see where the console needs to be to counter balance the weight that will be in the stern. With my weight at the helm will make it bow heavy till the wells are filled then balanced. Crazy right!?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jun 20, 2018 7:46 am
by OrangeQuest
The loPro pump came in yesterday!! Here is the low profile pump that will sit under the sole and the standard pump that will be at the back near the transom. You can see the LoPro has more than an inch of clearance which there will be an 8" deck hatch over it for maintance. I keep flipping back and forth on this being the primary or auxiliary pump. It is not a standard pump with just a float switch, it has a few more features that make for a more useful pump. One thing I like is it came with 4 fittings and 3 of the fitting have rubber membrane check valves. So many uses!!

3176

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jun 20, 2018 8:51 am
by Bogieman
You're making some real progress. Looks great. Can't wait to see everything hooked up and running.

Bogie

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jun 20, 2018 8:55 am
by OrangeQuest
Bogieman wrote: Wed Jun 20, 2018 8:51 am Can't wait to see everything hooked up and running.

Bogie
ME TOO!!! :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 22, 2018 11:52 am
by OrangeQuest
Been doing a lot of sanding but this morning wanted to play around with making a hotwire foam cutter to make rounded corners for my bait box.

Here is the first setup and it cuts the foam like butter.
3182
This is my first try. I could use them but I may try again before I glue anything in.
3181

May just make a long drum sander to smooth them a little. Looks like some of my first fillets!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 22, 2018 12:31 pm
by Capt UB
Tell us more, what voltage, type of wire...

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 22, 2018 2:41 pm
by OrangeQuest
Capt UB wrote: Fri Jun 22, 2018 12:31 pm Tell us more, what voltage, type of wire...
The nickel-Chromium wire is a 48" piece I get at the local art supply store.Because it is very thin wire it doesn't take much current at all, to much it turns bright red very quickly and then burns up. I use a varible voltage/current voltage supply that can go up to 30 volts but only 1.5 amps. Because of the low current of my regulator I have to turn the voltage up almost to max. But the voltage and current depends on the thickness of the wire and the lenght. I start turning the voltage up till the wire starts to get warm and then I just hold a piece of foam to it till the wire starts to go through. I have only used it to cut through 36" of block foam. But I used a turntable to spin the foam and the results have varied. Have to spin slow and hard to keep the foam straight up and down. I also have tried larger radiuses and they really suck. 4" seems to be where I get the best results.
Also the wire has to be very tight but to tight or to much speed and it breaks. It's a little bigger than a human hair.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 22, 2018 4:36 pm
by OrangeQuest
Hopefully tomorrow I will start copying this mock up and measuring and fitting hoses for the tank wells. Glue the control valve and pump mounts in and this part of the build will be done!!
3070
This is just the drain side. When I want to drain everything the pump is turned off and the V3 valve is turned to drain but the only way it works is all drain lines slope downward. Once everything is fitted then it all comes out, labeled and stored away till after painting.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jun 23, 2018 7:59 am
by glossieblack
There is some impressive planning and detailed design right there! :D

3070

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jun 23, 2018 8:05 am
by Capt UB
glossieblack wrote: Sat Jun 23, 2018 7:59 am There is some impressive planning and detailed design right there! :D

3070
I don't see coffee or beer..... Something is wrong!! ;}

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jun 23, 2018 8:14 am
by glossieblack
:lol: :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jun 23, 2018 8:22 am
by Jeff
Good stuff GB!! :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jun 23, 2018 8:36 am
by OrangeQuest
Capt UB wrote: Sat Jun 23, 2018 8:05 am [I don't see coffee or beer..... Something is wrong!! ;}
That picture is just the mock up and all that goes in the back. Here is the real reason I need two bilge pumps. :wink:
3187

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jun 23, 2018 8:52 am
by Eric1
DAYUM! :D :D :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jun 23, 2018 9:52 am
by Jeff
Nice!!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jun 23, 2018 10:23 am
by Capt UB
OQ

It's 10:30 here and all ready upper 80's and the humidity is killing me...

Hows it going in your part of the world?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jun 23, 2018 10:41 am
by OrangeQuest
Mid 80's in the warehouse here with humidity somewhere close to fog....if it was a little cooler. I am only watching crews right now.
First crew and gear left for one venue at 7:15 this morning. Next crew should start showing up any minute now and I will drive for a tour today that starts at 2. Between making sure all goes well I am measuring and cutting hose for my tank wells. Just ran into a snag. The thru hull fitting for water intake I got is to short. My transom is 1" right now and the fitting is 1.75" threads with a .5" nut that goes on each end to tighten it up. .25" to short. Then the strainer threads on. I can get a REAL thru hull fitting that has the outside piece already on it, gives me that .25" back on the inside, but would need to get a snap in strainer. "It is only a thing" and minor setback. Blow the budget already for this month so will be part of next month's budget which may include primer and paint.


Are you fairing and sanding your FS14 today, and the next few weeks?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jun 23, 2018 12:41 pm
by OrangeQuest
Here is where I stopped to get ready for a tour. The drain control valve can not be seen but you can see the handle below the flow control valve.
I rough cut the hoses a little long so once the valves and pump are mounted I will then trim them to exact length. Still need to make a mount for the flow control valve and ran into a snag with the thru hull pickup being to short. There is also just enough room for the 500gph auto pump. Can see why I don't want this to be where water collects.

3188

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jun 24, 2018 8:31 am
by Eric1
Looks really nice and neat! Thanks for documenting this. :)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jun 24, 2018 10:05 am
by OrangeQuest
Eric1 wrote: Sun Jun 24, 2018 8:31 am Looks really nice and neat! Thanks for documenting this. :)
Thanks Eric, but it's all photoshopped! :D

I didn't like the way the well pump was going to be mounted so I am changed that and it will give me a little more room. With my snag on the thru hull fitting I need to change it anyway. Trying to keep everything as straight shot as possible.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jun 24, 2018 12:39 pm
by Capt UB
OQ

Went to Harbor Freight this morning....

This is the stuff I have used on all my boats.
0624180957.jpg
0624180958.jpg
These connectors should be crimped carefully first then heat up. The glue inside will come out as the tubing shrinks.
0624180958a.jpg

Stay cool.... 95° here.... QuickFair goes off real quick, putting it in ice water..... With the beer ;)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jun 24, 2018 12:44 pm
by Jaysen
How long till you try to spread the beer and drink the quick fair?

Used some fast on the till this morning. 3oz mix at 6a... rock hard by 7a... finger nail test passed by 9a. Got to love hot days for epoxy work.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jun 24, 2018 12:52 pm
by Capt UB
Jaysen wrote: Sun Jun 24, 2018 12:44 pm How long till you try to spread the beer and drink the quick fair?

Used some fast on the till this morning. 3oz mix at 6a... rock hard by 7a... finger nail test passed by 9a. Got to love hot days for epoxy work.
No longer a true Sailor...... I keep things color coded! Beer Green bottle and QuickFair white mixing pan.....
Getting Hotter here...95° now going up.... Oh, this is in the shade!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jun 24, 2018 1:03 pm
by Jaysen
Capt UB wrote: Sun Jun 24, 2018 12:52 pm
Jaysen wrote: Sun Jun 24, 2018 12:44 pm How long till you try to spread the beer and drink the quick fair?

Used some fast on the till this morning. 3oz mix at 6a... rock hard by 7a... finger nail test passed by 9a. Got to love hot days for epoxy work.
No longer a true Sailor...... I keep things color coded! Beer Green bottle and QuickFair white mixing pan.....
Getting Hotter here...95° now going up.... Oh, this is in the shade!
If you can tell the colors apart you need to take bigger drinks!

Be careful with chilling. The resin will thicken making mixing and spreading harder. I found it easier to make smaller batches than to ice things.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jun 24, 2018 1:32 pm
by OrangeQuest
Jaysen wrote: Sun Jun 24, 2018 1:03 pm
Capt UB wrote: Sun Jun 24, 2018 12:52 pm
Jaysen wrote: Sun Jun 24, 2018 12:44 pm How long till you try to spread the beer and drink the quick fair?

Used some fast on the till this morning. 3oz mix at 6a... rock hard by 7a... finger nail test passed by 9a. Got to love hot days for epoxy work.
No longer a true Sailor...... I keep things color coded! Beer Green bottle and QuickFair white mixing pan.....
Getting Hotter here...95° now going up.... Oh, this is in the shade!
If you can tell the colors apart you need to take bigger drinks!

Be careful with chilling. The resin will thicken making mixing and spreading harder. I found it easier to make smaller batches than to ice things.
Hard for me to keep up. You guys still talking about beer or quickfair. Spreading beer, chillin' quickfair?? :doh: The heat is getting to you both! :lol:

Capt.UB it is also 95 here and going up. I am trying to make valve mounts that will not break off after a few trys. Thinking a tongue and groove kind of a mount to the frame. The mount will have the tongue and I will cut a slot in the frame to slide it through with lots of epoxy glue.

I will be using the HF connectors also followed with heavy amounts of liquid tape.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jun 24, 2018 2:06 pm
by Jaysen
Car says it’s 102f heading up into town through the live oaks. The weather station on the neighbors dock (over the water is reading 92f. Normal summer day.

Spreading beer should be a crime.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jun 24, 2018 3:21 pm
by OrangeQuest
97 is where I have stopped today. Beer starts to evaporate as soon as I open it.

Both control valves mounts have been made and they have been coated both sides with neat epoxy, hanging to cure. Light sanding, one last test fit and they will then be tacked into place. The drain valve will have to stay mounted so it keeps it in place till the epoxy cures. The flow valve mount I did the tongue and slot method and because the tongue goes all the way through I will clamp it on one side and tack it on the other. Once it cures I will trim it flush and fill will epoxy putty and glue. Once those two mounts are glued in the Tank Well Control Locker will be ready for primer. The hatches will be in Wednesday along with the triplex and power wires. Turn the page for the next step!!

Things are starting to move to fast!!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jun 24, 2018 4:07 pm
by Jeff
Good progress OrangeQuest, even in the heat!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jun 24, 2018 4:29 pm
by Bogieman
Way to go, OQ! Looks like you're clicking right along now. It was hot here today too (heat index was at 107). I was taking a lot of breaks and chugging gallons of water... couldn't handle any beer today.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jun 24, 2018 4:57 pm
by OrangeQuest
Jeff wrote: Sun Jun 24, 2018 4:07 pm Good progress OrangeQuest, even in the heat!! Jeff
Thank you Jeff, It is always to something. I will be looking for paint soon!
Bogieman wrote: Sun Jun 24, 2018 4:29 pm Way to go, OQ! Looks like you're clicking right along now. It was hot here today too (heat index was at 107). I was taking a lot of breaks and chugging gallons of water... couldn't handle any beer today.
Taking a lot of break and lots of cold water for me too. I have been doing a lot of little things and planning the next few steps. Trying to make sure things all fit together. Try to get as much as I can before it climbs about 90. Then I start slinging epoxy, grab a cold one and hit the A/C. I have an outside shower, cold water only, and after doing a lot of sanding and I get the dust suit off that shower feels pretty good. Afterwards, grab a cold one and freeze in the A/C.

This is my tongue and groove mount. Tried to get both sides of the stringer. It is crooked but when I clamp it, it will be straight.
3191

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jun 24, 2018 6:15 pm
by Bogieman
That looks really good, OQ! Man, that outside shower has got to be fantastic! If I had one on a day like today I'd jump in there every 10 minutes just to cool off.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jun 26, 2018 6:12 am
by OrangeQuest
Bogieman wrote: Sun Jun 24, 2018 6:15 pm That looks really good, OQ! Man, that outside shower has got to be fantastic! If I had one on a day like today I'd jump in there every 10 minutes just to cool off.
Thanks Bogieman. The shower comes in handy for after tours and we bring the customers back to the warehouse. They will use it to rinse off or one of the two hoses near it. The water pipe is buried deep enough in the ground that it comes out just cold enough to be very refreshing. Sometimes when wet sanding paddleboards I have been known to set up under the shower to keep the board wet.

I took Monday off on working on the boat while I done a little thinking about the next few steps. Did some "window shopping" for the next budget meeting, which I am the only person that is at these meetings. It is more or less look at the bills that need to be paid and see what can be spent on boat stuff. And in what order things need to be purchased so the build doesn't stall due to funding. That will come soon enough when money is being put aside for the motor.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jun 26, 2018 8:17 am
by Bogieman
8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jun 26, 2018 10:42 am
by OrangeQuest
So today before the sun started to heat things up I started work on the tanks again. The neat epoxied control valve mounts turned out good, sanded a little I thinking one more coat before I mount them. I cut one more hole for the hose to get to the live well and now I am ready to coat all the cut holes with neat epoxy. Since I cut a new pump mount that still needs a neat coat and sanding. Since I am happy with all the locations of everything I roughly over measured each hose and pushed the fittings on them. Labeled them and then bundled them.
3199
Getting ready to coat everything with neat epoxy and if any is left will make glue for the valve mounts so I can final test fit everything before painting the lockers. If the final fitting goes well I will start working on mounts for the two bilge pumps. Because bilge pumps need to be inspected regularly I need to be able to access them semi easily so if I make mounts like GB did with SKINNYDIP should be a one handed operation.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jun 26, 2018 5:20 pm
by OrangeQuest
One thing I forgot to mention about the live well pump mount. I was going to mount it vertical but didn't like the pump setting on the bottom of the bilge. The motor itself seems to be sealed but I don't want to take the chance so mounting it horizontal. This gives me more bottom space for the bilge pump and hoses. The down side is it brings the well pump up to almost 6" off the bottom. By pump I mean the impeller of the pump. Should I be concerned? The DWL is 5" but the boat will be heavier than designed.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jun 27, 2018 9:51 am
by OrangeQuest
Got in early this morning and started to mount the valves and the hoses. Everything went in and is ready to be taken back of and stored till after painting.
3200
This is a overhead view of the control valve locker and bilge. Forgot to put the little bilge pump in but you can see there is more room with the well pump on end. Also don't have the water pick up drilled yet, so the hose is not there.
3201
Better view under the flow control valve. A little clearance issues but was able to assemble the valves to their mounts and able to connect/disconnect the hoses with not much effort. Hope I never have to repair any of this but I have spare O-rings and fittings just in case. The valves are also serviceable. Again, everything is beefy so hope no troubles.

After spending a lot of time on different websites looking for good quality hose for the bilges it looks like for the price the stuff I am using for the wells will be used for the bilge pumps.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jun 27, 2018 9:59 am
by Jeff
Nice job OQ!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jun 27, 2018 12:24 pm
by Bogieman
Yes, very nice!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jun 27, 2018 1:38 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thanks guys! :) Looks like a bird's view of Houston freeways!! A few little things here and there still need to be tweaked out but I like the lay out. Hard part was keeping all the drains going down hill....I hope. I would put a level to everything but not going to change it.


My hatches and the wiring for the pumps come in today. Will be working on the motor well, wash decks and the bilge pumps next. Then chase tubes (needed the wiring for exact size of the tubes), start foaming under the tank wells and glue them in!! Can hook a hose to the system and test (play with) it then! :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jun 28, 2018 7:28 pm
by OrangeQuest
Cut a 3 pieces of the triplex (14/3), tried a few different diameter PCV pipe to see what will work the best. I like 2 pieces of 14/3 in a 3/4" and a single in a 1/2". The 3/4" thin wall has enough room for the 2 pieces and one piece of 14/2.

Since I got one small hatch I cut a template in scrap to see how it will look in the 4 places this hatch will go. Thinking a box frame to brace the hatch frame that also secures to the cleats with lap joints. Next few days will be measuring and cutting out the aft decks. The two splash decks and the stern bench top will be 3/8" marine ply. Once the hatch openings are all cut out will lay them flat and wet out then 3.5oz glass. After cure will flip and add thickened epoxy along inside edges of hatch openings, using the glass over the opening to hold the epoxy. Repeat on the other side. While these are curing I will be working on the bilge pump mounts.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 29, 2018 2:42 am
by glossieblack
As usual, very well thought through and executed work. 8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 29, 2018 5:50 am
by OrangeQuest
Thank you Glossieblack, I get inspired by following everyone else that have gone through this process. As far as the execution part, we will see. Good thing I have a lot of scrap plywood to make a template. :doh:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 29, 2018 10:02 am
by Bogieman
glossieblack wrote: Fri Jun 29, 2018 2:42 am As usual, very well thought through and executed work. 8)
What glossieblack said.

Have a great weekend.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 29, 2018 3:43 pm
by OrangeQuest
Bogieman wrote: Fri Jun 29, 2018 10:02 am
glossieblack wrote: Fri Jun 29, 2018 2:42 am As usual, very well thought through and executed work. 8)
What glossieblack said.

Have a great weekend.
You too Bogie!

Well, just hit beer o'clock here. Closed the warehouse doors and the temps are just getting in the 3 digits inside. Got the decks measured and cut. Cut the opening for hatches in the aft bench deck. Measured and cut the wash deck pieces but only rough finished them to where they will go. I trimmed the top of the stringers at the transom and the transom add on piece a little high. figured I would sand everything down as I got closer to gluing the decks on. But when I was fitting the wash decks I kind of started liking the decks at more of an angle and setting higher. I don't feel like going through posting pictures just yet but once I get home we'll see. I took pictures of both, where I have been planning to put them and where I may put them. If I angle them more I will have to add to the front of the splash well but, "it's just a thing!".

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 29, 2018 4:52 pm
by OrangeQuest
Ok. This is what I have been planning to do with the wash/splash decks. Trim the transom and top of the stringers down and done. Very little angle and the gunwales will follow that same angle.
3226
While I almost always over cut and then final trim I did this and started to like how that looked and so trimmed the wash decks to go like this. You can see the gap from the frame not coming all the way up but I kind of like the look. I can add a piece to the front of the motor well and where the hatches are that is a "bench" so makes the seat back a little higher and I like the increased angle. The gunwales then would copy that angle and flatten out as they go towards the fore deck.
3227

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 29, 2018 4:59 pm
by Jeff
Nice OQ!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 29, 2018 5:24 pm
by Bogieman
Looks really good. I'd say you've earned those beers :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jun 30, 2018 11:48 am
by OrangeQuest
Thanks guys!

This morning (WEEKEND OFF!! :D :D ) I started by cutting out the hatch openings on the aft wash decks. I also made a small filler piece to bring the frame up to the new position of the wash decks. I really like the way this looks and I am sure this goes against the "keep it simple" train of thought but this is simple. Everything has a place and no wasted space that is not for floatation. This picture seems to make it look like a bigger boat but this is the stern bench of a FS14. The frame was moved back some 4" but two short frames under the sole before getting to where the middle bench frames should start. I am really liking the look. One of the people that was looking at it this morning asked "will it float when you are done?" The back of the boat is very easy to pick up.
3228

Getting ready to give them a quick wet coat then slap the undersides with cloth. Not sure if laying cloth on the top side of the wash deck is good now or after they are glued down, final trimmed, edges rounded and then glass? I will sleep on it.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jul 01, 2018 2:23 pm
by OrangeQuest
Because the big tour trailer has to be moved to get another boat trailer out I took my boat out of it's hole. Started working on the two short frames that still need to be taped in. Sanded around where they were tacked in and one of them I had left over epoxy putty for fillets so cleaned that up a little. Vacuumed everything and then stated to cut all the tape. Employees started showing up to work the venues and slowed work down to a complete stop. After they left got back to cutting tape. I have a lot of 12oz left over so was going to use it. That stuff doesn't like to fold very easy and stay. So cut some piece of cardboard and folded them all up into it. Warehouse was heating up fast so mixed up some fast epoxy to lay glass on the well tank deck. Mixed enough to wet out the tank well deck and just coat the top side of the wash decks. After wet out laid the glass. Beer o'clock and temps are hitting high 90's. After first beer checked the curing epoxy, still tacky and stuck to the trash bags protecting my work bench. Second beer done, was to hot to finish, epoxy is hard enough to rough trim all the glass off the edges and hatch opening. Laid the decks into position for this picture.

3229
Now going home and getting something to eat.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jul 01, 2018 9:43 pm
by OrangeQuest
Just ran across this picture. Right after I downloaded the plans to the FS14. Printed them and then started outlining the boat in the parking lot on how I wanted it to be. That was about 8 months ago.
3231
I will be upgrading the seats and console.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jul 02, 2018 12:16 am
by TomW1
:lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jul 02, 2018 8:13 am
by Capt UB
No lie, tall back seats would be nice on a boat. At my age I need all the support I can get. Something like the seat I found a few months ago.... Just need to find them less then 1200 each!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jul 02, 2018 8:21 am
by Bogieman
OrangeQuest wrote: Sun Jul 01, 2018 9:43 pm Just ran across this picture. Right after I downloaded the plans to the FS14. Printed them and then started outlining the boat in the parking lot on how I wanted it to be. That was about 8 months ago.
3231
I will be upgrading the seats and console.
:lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jul 02, 2018 8:23 am
by Bogieman
OrangeQuest wrote: Sat Jun 30, 2018 11:48 am Thanks guys!

This morning (WEEKEND OFF!! :D :D ) I started by cutting out the hatch openings on the aft wash decks. I also made a small filler piece to bring the frame up to the new position of the wash decks. I really like the way this looks and I am sure this goes against the "keep it simple" train of thought but this is simple. Everything has a place and no wasted space that is not for floatation. This picture seems to make it look like a bigger boat but this is the stern bench of a FS14. The frame was moved back some 4" but two short frames under the sole before getting to where the middle bench frames should start. I am really liking the look. One of the people that was looking at it this morning asked "will it float when you are done?" The back of the boat is very easy to pick up.
3228

Getting ready to give them a quick wet coat then slap the undersides with cloth. Not sure if laying cloth on the top side of the wash deck is good now or after they are glued down, final trimmed, edges rounded and then glass? I will sleep on it.
This looks great! Nice lines.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jul 02, 2018 11:44 am
by Eric1
Keep kicking tail OQ! I'm with you on building for comfort! :wink:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jul 02, 2018 5:40 pm
by OrangeQuest
Eric1 wrote: Mon Jul 02, 2018 11:44 am Keep kicking tail OQ! I'm with you on building for comfort! :wink:
Yes!! Once this thing is finished and on the water, if I can't do it from my chair it doesn't need to be done.
Bogieman wrote: Mon Jul 02, 2018 8:23 am This looks great! Nice lines.
Thanks, But still so much sanding to do in the heat! Thinking I may need to flip the hull and set up my sprayer for "wet sanding" the hull, even if it doesn't need it yet!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jul 04, 2018 1:51 pm
by OrangeQuest
Canceled all venues for today due to rain forecast. 4" to 5" so far. Was wanting to work on the boat but hard to focus when flooding around you!
Did drill the holes for the forward drain. Boat is level at midship and the drain is still pitched aft a few degrees. Also made a pad to bolt the 500 GPH bilge pump to. Next up a way to mount the 900 gph pump and still access it through an 8" access port.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jul 04, 2018 9:55 pm
by OrangeQuest
Cut a 9mm piece of ply for a mount. This is the loPro with a muck up of where the hatch and the pump could go. Notice the offset to the stringers, the chase tubes will go on come through the other side.

3240

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jul 05, 2018 6:37 pm
by Bogieman
OrangeQuest wrote: Wed Jul 04, 2018 9:55 pm Cut a 9mm piece of ply for a mount. This is the loPro with a muck up of where the hatch and the pump could go. Notice the offset to the stringers, the chase tubes will go on come through the other side.

3240
Now that is one patriotic post! Look at that red, white and blue LoPro!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jul 05, 2018 7:24 pm
by OrangeQuest
Bogieman wrote: Thu Jul 05, 2018 6:37 pm 3240


Now that is one patriotic post! Look at that red, white and blue LoPro!
:lol:

The LoPro is going to be a little harder to mount.

3243
This is the little pump mount. These 3 studs are incased in this block of plywood and epoxy, the mount bolts down and then the pump clips in. The LoPro has clearance issues. I tried the same method on the LoPro and the nuts will not clear. So the bolts have to come through the top. Little set back.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jul 07, 2018 12:32 pm
by OrangeQuest
Nothing gets the blood flowing like trying to tape 6 pieces to both sides of a small frame with fast cure epoxy in high 90's temp. Filleted and then went straight to taping and by the time I got to the last piece the fillet was hard!! 8O

Did two frames this morning. Filleted the first one, waited about 15 minutes then taped, both sides, ends and center. Almost an hour later still tacky.
Started on the other frame but this time no waiting between the filleting. Because I was expecting the putty to still be soft and pliable did not make "neat" fillets, putty was getting very hot! Tossed the pot and made a batch of neat epoxy. Started taping in the center, then starboard, using the roller to clean up the fillets. By the time I got to the port side the putty was to hard to move! Will see how much needs to be re-done. :(

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jul 07, 2018 4:57 pm
by Capt UB
The life and times of a boat builder... 8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jul 07, 2018 8:16 pm
by OrangeQuest
Capt UB wrote: Sat Jul 07, 2018 4:57 pm The life and times of a boat builder... 8)
Got a half gallon of fast hardener when the weather was still a little cool and trying to use it on all the little "quick" stuff.
Little sanding and trim the glass down and will start measuring for the sole. My luck with cutting and then measuring sucks! And no, I don't have that backwards. After I cut I have to re-measure to try and figure out what I screwed up. That is why I first make templates from scrap.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jul 08, 2018 11:39 am
by Bogieman
OrangeQuest wrote: Sat Jul 07, 2018 8:16 pm
Capt UB wrote: Sat Jul 07, 2018 4:57 pm The life and times of a boat builder... 8)
... My luck with cutting and then measuring sucks! And no, I don't have that backwards. After I cut I have to re-measure to try and figure out what I screwed up. That is why I first make templates from scrap.
Yup! The template method is a real life saver, especially when deviating from the plans.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jul 09, 2018 8:48 am
by glossieblack
OrangeQuest wrote: Sat Jul 07, 2018 8:16 pm Little sanding and trim the glass down and will start measuring for the sole. My luck with cutting and then measuring sucks! And no, I don't have that backwards. After I cut I have to re-measure to try and figure out what I screwed up. That is why I first make templates from scrap.
Despite your self-deprecating wit, your build is well thought out and executed. 8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jul 09, 2018 7:31 pm
by OrangeQuest
glossieblack wrote: Mon Jul 09, 2018 8:48 am
OrangeQuest wrote: Sat Jul 07, 2018 8:16 pm Little sanding and trim the glass down and will start measuring for the sole. My luck with cutting and then measuring sucks! And no, I don't have that backwards. After I cut I have to re-measure to try and figure out what I screwed up. That is why I first make templates from scrap.
Despite your self-deprecating wit, your build is well thought out and executed. 8)
Thank you GB, but here is an example. I thought I measured very carefully the ply on the right. You can see it doesn't fit towards the front. There is about a 2" gap from the chine. So I remeasured and cut again. You can see the ply on the left is a very nice fit even though it still needs a little tweaking before I use it as the template. The sole will go down in 3 pieces when I am ready for it.
3311
These pieces are recycled plywood from the furniture warehouse down the street. Very little of it makes it to the trash. After I am done with the templates I again re-use the wood for small projects. I even recycle my saw dust for floor dry.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jul 09, 2018 8:38 pm
by Bogieman
:D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jul 10, 2018 8:49 am
by pee wee
You are making those fit by measuring? I would have thought it would be easier to offset a piece toward the centerline of the boat and scribe it to fit. Both work, and lucky you have the scrap ply to work with. Progress either way! :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jul 10, 2018 9:36 am
by OrangeQuest
pee wee wrote: Tue Jul 10, 2018 8:49 am You are making those fit by measuring? I would have thought it would be easier to offset a piece toward the centerline of the boat and scribe it to fit. Both work, and lucky you have the scrap ply to work with. Progress either way! :D
Not sure I understand your method. What I done was measure from the stringer to the chine which was way off. So I then took a 36" straight edge and laid across both stringers so I know where the bottom of the sole would hit the side of the boat, measuring every 12". Also there was not an exact straight edge on the sheet when I started, I forgot I cut 1/4" off the edge of the scrap to quickly get rid of all the staples.

You can see the left side follows the curve of the side good and then the sharper curve of the sheer towards the bow. If I get the two outer pieces centered on the stringers then when I go to cut the center piece I lay one of the outer pieces on top of it to know where to cut the edge of the center piece. Because I really suck at measuring and cutting I have to do things very complex when I am sure there are easier ways of doing things. And you are right I am lucky I have so much scrap to use before cutting the marine stuff.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jul 10, 2018 10:40 am
by pee wee
Scribing will let you get a perfect fit with no measuring. It's easier to learn by seeing than hearing, so here's a basic explanation of one way to do it:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LAM9I6kidx8

In the case of a boat hull curve, you may have a greater distance than your compass can span, so you can use a block of wood and pencil to do the same thing; there's more than one way to set it up. Just be careful to keep the contact point at the hull and pencil point oriented square to your boat's centerline as you move along. If you think about it, the piece you're marking will move sideways toward the hull side after it's cut, but it can only move in one direction- keep the scribing oriented to the direction you plan to move your template. Once you get the hang of it you could use this method to directly draw the line on the marine ply, but for now I'd stay with the template pieces.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jul 10, 2018 11:29 am
by OrangeQuest
pee wee wrote: Tue Jul 10, 2018 10:40 am Scribing will let you get a perfect fit with no measuring. It's easier to learn by seeing than hearing, so here's a basic explanation of one way to do it:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LAM9I6kidx8

In the case of a boat hull curve, you may have a greater distance than your compass can span, so you can use a block of wood and pencil to do the same thing; there's more than one way to set it up. Just be careful to keep the contact point at the hull and pencil point oriented square to your boat's centerline as you move along. If you think about it, the piece you're marking will move sideways toward the hull side after it's cut, but it can only move in one direction- keep the scribing oriented to the direction you plan to move your template. Once you get the hang of it you could use this method to directly draw the line on the marine ply, but for now I'd stay with the template pieces.
Thank you Pee Wee, I have seen them do that on "This Old House" a thousand times.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jul 10, 2018 12:21 pm
by johnstonjosh
Its looking good! I ended up having to scribe my front deck after my seemingly perfect measurements left a huge gape. For the sole i ended up getting 1/8 inch luan for $13 a sheet at a lumber yard, ripping it into 2 inch strips and using it to make templates. just break the peices to length, hot glue together and it ends up being good enough to scribe the part.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jul 10, 2018 9:03 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thank you Pee Wee and Johnstonjosh for your help, ya'll may learn me how to be a carpenter/boat builder yet! :)

I still have the port template to cut out and I will combine both methods to get the template. Then I will start measuring and cutting down the cleats. July will be the month for floatation foam and primer in the lockers.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jul 13, 2018 8:13 am
by OrangeQuest
Some of you may have noticed no posts on my build for most of this week. Even though I WAS a mechanic back in the day I was never a frontend mech.
I hated working on the dirtier areas of vehicles. Grime gets all over you, your tools and anything you touch. I paid other mechanic to do frontend work for me, that said. I have been rebuilding the frontend of our bus and replacing the steering gear box, oh what joy! :x :x I don't want to get anywhere near the wood or my build with all this grime showing up everywhere. But it's part of my job.

I do have a few things coming, paint not one of them just yet. This weekend I will be getting the chase tubes and fitting for those and maybe get them installed before Monday, but not rushing.

Thanks to Pee Wee and Terrulian for advice on paint and primer I have a game plan, I think. I want to get the chase tubes in, floatation foam everywhere that I can and then install the wells. Then paint the aft lockers and bilge. Seems a quart will cover the lockers and bilge with some left over. Then the boat will get flipped so I can start glassing the sides and fair for painting. Want to get the boat in the water to see how it is balanced. Not the best at math and more of a see it kind of a guy. Don't have the motor yet but will put a person in the back to get an idea on where I should put the console and fuel tank. I need it to be bow heavy with just me at the helm so adding water to the tanks will trim it out. Hope that makes sense.


I can see the engineers and designers shaking their heads. :) Won't be the first time I went against the laws of physics! :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jul 13, 2018 10:36 am
by Eric1
I'm with you on the grease and grime. I've been lucky with all the oil that gets in the shop air.
You seem to have a good plan. Keep at it!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jul 13, 2018 10:42 am
by Bogieman
Hello OQ! Seems there are always too many life interruptions getting in the way of our boat building. Anyway, I can relate when it comes to dirty, greasy mechanical work. When I was in the Navy working as part of the catapult launch crew I was usually covered in Belray grease. And because I was one of the smaller guys ended up having to crawl into some of the smaller, hotter, darker confined spaces with a grease gun or to repair safety wire etc. Good times. You're building always seems methodical and well thought out. And you've added more mechanical parts to your build than most.

Bogie

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jul 13, 2018 10:48 am
by Eric1
Bogieman wrote: Fri Jul 13, 2018 10:42 am Hello OQ! Seems there are always too many life interruptions getting in the way of our boat building. Anyway, I can relate when it comes to dirty, greasy mechanical work. When I was in the Navy working as part of the catapult launch crew I was usually covered in Belray grease. And because I was one of the smaller guys ended up having to crawl into some of the smaller, hotter, darker confined spaces with a grease gun or to repair safety wire etc. Good times. You're building always seems methodical and well thought out. And you've added more mechanical parts to your build than most.

Bogie
You have much respect from this old sailor. Flight deck crew takes balls!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jul 13, 2018 11:15 am
by Bogieman
Eric1 wrote: Fri Jul 13, 2018 10:48 am
Bogieman wrote: Fri Jul 13, 2018 10:42 am Hello OQ! Seems there are always too many life interruptions getting in the way of our boat building. Anyway, I can relate when it comes to dirty, greasy mechanical work. When I was in the Navy working as part of the catapult launch crew I was usually covered in Belray grease. And because I was one of the smaller guys ended up having to crawl into some of the smaller, hotter, darker confined spaces with a grease gun or to repair safety wire etc. Good times. You're building always seems methodical and well thought out. And you've added more mechanical parts to your build than most.

Bogie
You have much respect from this old sailor. Flight deck crew takes balls!
:D :lol: What was your rate, Eric?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jul 13, 2018 1:33 pm
by Eric1
I was an electronics Tech.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jul 13, 2018 1:42 pm
by Bogieman
Eric1 wrote: Fri Jul 13, 2018 1:33 pm I was an electronics Tech.
That's great, Eric! Go Navy! Semper Squid :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jul 13, 2018 3:00 pm
by OrangeQuest
Eric1 wrote: Fri Jul 13, 2018 10:48 am
Bogieman wrote: Fri Jul 13, 2018 10:42 am Hello OQ! Seems there are always too many life interruptions getting in the way of our boat building. Anyway, I can relate when it comes to dirty, greasy mechanical work. When I was in the Navy working as part of the catapult launch crew I was usually covered in Belray grease. And because I was one of the smaller guys ended up having to crawl into some of the smaller, hotter, darker confined spaces with a grease gun or to repair safety wire etc. Good times. You're building always seems methodical and well thought out. And you've added more mechanical parts to your build than most.

Bogie
You have much respect from this old sailor. Flight deck crew takes balls!
Both you guys have and deserve much respect from me. A guy that sleeps well at night and can voice his opinion about near everything because of men and women just like you guys. My right hand girl here at the office, she keeps everything in order, was fire fighter on a carrier. Quietest woman I know till she gets mad, then everyone runs! 8O

Thanks for the encouragement guys. "And you've added more mechanical parts to your build than most." Is that the same as saying more stuff that can go wrong? :D :lol: Sometimes I think I am planning a trip to Mars.
Like many have asked, is it going to float when you are finished?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jul 13, 2018 3:40 pm
by Bogieman
OrangeQuest wrote: Fri Jul 13, 2018 3:00 pm
Eric1 wrote: Fri Jul 13, 2018 10:48 am
Bogieman wrote: Fri Jul 13, 2018 10:42 am Hello OQ! Seems there are always too many life interruptions getting in the way of our boat building. Anyway, I can relate when it comes to dirty, greasy mechanical work. When I was in the Navy working as part of the catapult launch crew I was usually covered in Belray grease. And because I was one of the smaller guys ended up having to crawl into some of the smaller, hotter, darker confined spaces with a grease gun or to repair safety wire etc. Good times. You're building always seems methodical and well thought out. And you've added more mechanical parts to your build than most.

Bogie
You have much respect from this old sailor. Flight deck crew takes balls!
Both you guys have and deserve much respect from me. A guy that sleeps well at night and can voice his opinion about near everything because of men and women just like you guys. My right hand girl here at the office, she keeps everything in order, was fire fighter on a carrier. Quietest woman I know till she gets mad, then everyone runs! 8O

Thanks for the encouragement guys. "And you've added more mechanical parts to your build than most." Is that the same as saying more stuff that can go wrong? :D :lol: Sometimes I think I am planning a trip to Mars.
Like many have asked, is it going to float when you are finished?
Thanks, OQ! And :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jul 13, 2018 7:08 pm
by OrangeQuest
Another good thing about using scrap plywood is that I used a sheet for the workbench top where I swapped out parts on the steering gear box. It was time to trade it out, I have been using it to drill holes in the frames to prevent tear out.
The work bench started as one of the ones you can get from Harbor Freight. Then I added a small sheet of plywood, a pair of hinges and some drop down legs. Then 3 toggles that attach another sheet of plywood, a sawhorse and a bolt that locks it all together. It goes from only 2 foot wide to 10 feet and strong enough to walk on.
Then I built a stand for my band saw that make the saw table even to the workbench so I can rip the 1" X 4" boards to 1" X 1" for cleats. IT IS NOT FOR MECHANIC WORK!! :x

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jul 15, 2018 12:26 pm
by OrangeQuest
DONE WITH THE BUS!!! Tools are cleaned and stored away! Back to retirement now!

Measured and cut all 4 cleats for the control valve locker. Started to sand the bilge area and looked at the aft anchor lockers. then, oh look, cold beer!

The motor well area will need some fairing done to it before I put cleats in it. The anchor locker needs just rough sanding and a hole or two for the control cables, motor harness and the fuel line to come out of. Since the fuel line will come down the center of the boat, when it goes under the tank wells it will turn 45 degrees and then back 45 degrees to come out inside the anchor locker. May run the bilge pump wiring the same way so the connector can be a lot higher in the bilge. So much still to do before gluing in the tank wells. :| :doh:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jul 16, 2018 6:39 am
by glossieblack
OrangeQuest wrote: Fri Jul 13, 2018 3:00 pm Sometimes I think I am planning a trip to Mars.
Nah, you're just skilfully building exactly the boat you want, and for those of us watching you execute your well thought out build, it's one hell of an interesting ride. Build on. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jul 16, 2018 9:55 am
by OrangeQuest
glossieblack wrote: Mon Jul 16, 2018 6:39 am
OrangeQuest wrote: Fri Jul 13, 2018 3:00 pm Sometimes I think I am planning a trip to Mars.
Nah, you're just skillfully building exactly the boat you want, and for those of us watching you execute your well thought out build, it's one hell of an interesting ride. Build on. :D
Thank you for the kind words. I am really enjoying this build too! And like you guys I too am interested to see what I come up with next!! :D

I was getting very excited about nearing the install of the tank wells. But I realized there were things I was forgetting about. As I started thinking what else was needed the list was getting longer and longer! So had to grab a beer, collect my thoughts and walked away. Today it's not as much as I was thinking. Just a new game plan.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jul 16, 2018 12:18 pm
by Capt UB
OrangeQuest wrote: Mon Jul 16, 2018 9:55 am
glossieblack wrote: Mon Jul 16, 2018 6:39 am
OrangeQuest wrote: Fri Jul 13, 2018 3:00 pm Sometimes I think I am planning a trip to Mars.
Nah, you're just skillfully building exactly the boat you want, and for those of us watching you execute your well thought out build, it's one hell of an interesting ride. Build on. :D
Thank you for the kind words. I am really enjoying this build too! And like you guys I too am interested to see what I come up with next!! :D

I was getting very excited about nearing the install of the tank wells. But I realized there were things I was forgetting about. As I started thinking what else was needed the list was getting longer and longer! So had to grab a beer, collect my thoughts and walked away. Today it's not as much as I was thinking. Just a new game plan.
Sounds like someone needs a Banana!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jul 16, 2018 2:18 pm
by OrangeQuest
Capt UB wrote: Mon Jul 16, 2018 12:18 pm
Sounds like someone needs a Banana!
I went and had fish tacos and frozen Margaritas with amoretto shots poured over them. They are called "melt downs" and that was just what I needed.

Sometimes having OCD sucks but for what I do I make it work. When things seem to be out of order I freak out till I can get things right again. It's very stressful. :)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jul 18, 2018 6:36 am
by OrangeQuest
Some supplies came in and a few more today will be showing up. I picked up the chase tubes and the 90 degree slow turns. Forgot to get unions for jointing the one end of the PVC thin wall after the turn. I'm installing electrical ends that have the nut to connect them to a box. I feel this will give it a cleaner look than just a pipe sticking out, all in PVC. I ordered more expanding foam than I need so I can play around with it a little before pour in the stations. Thinking I am going to use the extra for the rounded corners in the bait well for a cleaner and more consistent look.

The wire for the anchor and nav lights is coming in along with a 6 switch panel with breakers. Starting to get stuff needed for the console which I have not even been thinking about it's shape to much other than SMALL. But gathering the stuff for it will give me a better idea for it's size. Suzuki makes a tach that has the warning lights in it so that will be one of the things that goes into the console. Will also be getting an hour meter but don't see a reason it needs to take up space on the instrument cluster. I have been looking at volt/amp gauges and other than a speedo I see a need for much more. Will need a GPS/fish finder but it will more than likely be a bolt on.

Changing my days off has really screwed me up on how to plan my time. Employees think I am there for work and expect me to help them on the weekends, which I do but easier to drag everything out on Mondays and Tuesdays when no one is coming in so going back to those days. Very little work on the build because of it.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jul 18, 2018 6:51 am
by glossieblack
OrangeQuest wrote: Wed Jul 18, 2018 6:36 am Changing my days off has really screwed me up on how to plan my time. Employees think I am there for work and expect me to help them on the weekends, which I do but easier to drag everything out on Mondays and Tuesdays when no one is coming in so going back to those days. Very little work on the build because of it.
My guess is that you're thinking through every detail of your build regardless of when you're working. Which means when you get to build, you're prepared. It shows.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jul 18, 2018 3:52 pm
by OrangeQuest
glossieblack wrote: Wed Jul 18, 2018 6:51 am
OrangeQuest wrote: Wed Jul 18, 2018 6:36 am Changing my days off has really screwed me up on how to plan my time. Employees think I am there for work and expect me to help them on the weekends, which I do but easier to drag everything out on Mondays and Tuesdays when no one is coming in so going back to those days. Very little work on the build because of it.
My guess is that you're thinking through every detail of your build regardless of when you're working. Which means when you get to build, you're prepared. It shows.
Problem is during the week there is no one here till it starts to heat up so I have all morning long to work on the build if I want to. Weekends there are employees coming and going till 10:30 which very little can get done. A lot of starting and stopping too.

All my goodies for this week came in and starting to get the details for building the console. No one makes exactly what I want so I buy, take apart and reassemble the way I want it. Like I got a 6 switch panel that came in with breakers. All good but both my bilge pumps need 3 way switches. So they need replacing. Then the nav lights and anchor light, again 3 way switch. Pretty much more than half the switches need to be replaced. But it all gets put in a box for now till I get to that end of the boat. But I will be shopping!!

I also ordered primer, bilge paint and top coat paint today from BBC. Decided to go with Petitti in all the paints and primers. Again lots has to get done first.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jul 18, 2018 4:15 pm
by Bogieman
You're making great progress despite all the obstacles. Not much happened on my build last week and this week has been wet and it's supposed to be wet all week :cry:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jul 18, 2018 5:31 pm
by OrangeQuest
Bogieman wrote: Wed Jul 18, 2018 4:15 pm You're making great progress despite all the obstacles. Not much happened on my build last week and this week has been wet and it's supposed to be wet all week :cry:
Thanks Bogie but not as much as I would like. A lot of planning though. I hate when my brain jumps ahead and then reality kicks back in! :lol:
Getting ready for a big move, covering thing up and no access, so nervous about it.

My build is inside a metal warehouse. Hit 105 degrees in the warehouse and again when I got in my car. But I did get to play with expanding foam today and made a big muffin. Mixed the two parts together when it was 95 degrees and within maybe 15 seconds it started to expand. Got a little more rise than when baking a cake just a lot faster and very stiff.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jul 18, 2018 6:21 pm
by Bogieman
OrangeQuest wrote: Wed Jul 18, 2018 5:31 pm
Bogieman wrote: Wed Jul 18, 2018 4:15 pm You're making great progress despite all the obstacles. Not much happened on my build last week and this week has been wet and it's supposed to be wet all week :cry:
Thanks Bogie but not as much as I would like. A lot of planning though. I hate when my brain jumps ahead and then reality kicks back in! :lol:
Getting ready for a big move, covering thing up and no access, so nervous about it.

My build is inside a metal warehouse. Hit 105 degrees in the warehouse and again when I got in my car. But I did get to play with expanding foam today and made a big muffin. Mixed the two parts together when it was 95 degrees and within maybe 15 seconds it started to expand. Got a little more rise than when baking a cake just a lot faster and very stiff.
:lol: Nice! I can't wait to play with the foam.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jul 18, 2018 7:19 pm
by Capt UB
OrangeQuest wrote: Wed Jul 18, 2018 3:52 pm
glossieblack wrote: Wed Jul 18, 2018 6:51 am
OrangeQuest wrote: Wed Jul 18, 2018 6:36 am Changing my days off has really screwed me up on how to plan my time. Employees think I am there for work and expect me to help them on the weekends, which I do but easier to drag everything out on Mondays and Tuesdays when no one is coming in so going back to those days. Very little work on the build because of it.
My guess is that you're thinking through every detail of your build regardless of when you're working. Which means when you get to build, you're prepared. It shows.
Problem is during the week there is no one here till it starts to heat up so I have all morning long to work on the build if I want to. Weekends there are employees coming and going till 10:30 which very little can get done. A lot of starting and stopping too.

All my goodies for this week came in and starting to get the details for building the console. No one makes exactly what I want so I buy, take apart and reassemble the way I want it. Like I got a 6 switch panel that came in with breakers. All good but both my bilge pumps need 3 way switches. So they need replacing. Then the nav lights and anchor light, again 3 way switch. Pretty much more than half the switches need to be replaced. But it all gets put in a box for now till I get to that end of the boat. But I will be shopping!!

I also ordered primer, bilge paint and top coat paint today from BBC. Decided to go with Petitti in all the paints and primers. Again lots has to get done first.
Main battery switch turns on auto/float for bilge, override on panel 2 way on or off. Some panels have a circuit for the all-round/anchor light and nav (bow). I'll dig out the one I'm using and get model # maker.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jul 19, 2018 6:40 am
by OrangeQuest
Capt UB wrote: Wed Jul 18, 2018 7:19 pm
Main battery switch turns on auto/float for bilge, override on panel 2 way on or off. Some panels have a circuit for the all-round/anchor light and nav (bow). I'll dig out the one I'm using and get model # maker.
Not sure I will use a disconnect/battery isolation switch or not. With the Suzuki able to pull start without power I could get by with only one battery. The charging system only puts out 14 amps so can't expect it to charge a battery that has been discharged to much without shorten the life of the charging system. What I have thought about is a battery isolator that will keep the electrical loads off the starter battery when the motor is not running and then maintain charge going to the battery that needs it, if I go with multi-batteries. Keeping normal loads under the 14 amps is a must for me. The running lights, well pump, vhf radio and sonar would all have to be under the 14 amps so the motor can maintain the battery and still have enough reserve to re-charge a drained battery in a timely manor.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jul 19, 2018 10:04 am
by OrangeQuest
Playing with expanding foam:
90 degree corner made from scrap and boxed in. Lined with flexible cutting board plastic. 3" PVC pipe with cutting board plastic taped to it. Then taped 3.25 FG cloth to it and laid a small sheet in the corner box. Added 24 grams (12g "A" and 12g "B"). Poured into corner box and clamped PVC pipe on top of mixture. After 1 hour pried out and trimmed.
3341
Top view: Sorry had wrong image.
3340
Very rigid but can flex without breaking. Will be using for corners in bait well. The cloth on the edges will help glue it to the corners of the well with less fairing and very small fillets. Can be trimmed with razor knife. Once glued in the well will get 3.25oz cloth lining it.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jul 19, 2018 1:52 pm
by Eric1
Nice work O.Q.!!! 8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jul 19, 2018 9:36 pm
by OrangeQuest
Eric1 wrote: Thu Jul 19, 2018 1:52 pm Nice work O.Q.!!! 8)
Thanks!

Made two more, two out of three is not bad. :?
The two good ones will work for nearest the drain and power nozzle. I have a piece of 8" PVC may try that soon.

This may sound crazy to some, others will think why I didn't do it sooner. I have a steel 18" ruler. I use it to measure all the little stuff and I really like it. It measures down to the 32nd of an inch on one side and mm on the other. I started to use the metric side more and more. Things are a little scrambled in my head so 14 5/8" most the time comes out as 12 7/8", 15" or any other number that is not what I need. But if I measure 310mm it stays 310. When I cut, it's still 310mm after the cut. Crazy right? So now I spent the money on a metric tape measure that goes to 8 meters. The only one at Home Depot and it still have feet on the other side.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jul 19, 2018 9:41 pm
by Bogieman
:D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jul 20, 2018 2:34 am
by Fuzz
Order the next set of plans in metric and you will have it made.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jul 20, 2018 6:03 am
by OrangeQuest
Fuzz wrote: Fri Jul 20, 2018 2:34 am Order the next set of plans in metric and you will have it made.
The plans for the FS14 came with both! But I have only been using the US version. :)

But yes, I find the measurements easier to transfer when using metric. For some reason trying to remember fractions twists the numbers around in my head. Could have something to do with Dyslexia.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jul 21, 2018 7:03 am
by Capt UB
Any work being done on the boat? Fairing, painting... Need pic's of boat... hows it look?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jul 21, 2018 8:58 am
by OrangeQuest
Capt UB wrote: Sat Jul 21, 2018 7:03 am Any work being done on the boat? Fairing, painting... Need pic's of boat... hows it look?
Thanks for asking Capt. Bob. The build itself has slowed some due to trying to get ready to glue the tank well assembly in. Just got the chase tubes but not installed, got the expanding foam (experimenting with it has been fun). Ordered the paint to do the bilges, lockers and anywhere else, ordered primer, ordered topcoat paint to do the sides.
Will paint the midship bilge, aft bilge and the rear lockers hoping in the next week or so. Have to work this weekend to go back to my old days off of Monday and Tuesday. But I will have some time Sunday, Monday and then Tuesday to work on getting the details done to mount the wells. I hate sanding the fiberglass but that is something I have been putting off as long as possible so once I put on my top half dust suit I can get it all knocked out at once. Then shower it all off. But no updated pictures.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jul 21, 2018 9:36 am
by Bogieman
OrangeQuest wrote: Sat Jul 21, 2018 8:58 am
Capt UB wrote: Sat Jul 21, 2018 7:03 am Any work being done on the boat? Fairing, painting... Need pic's of boat... hows it look?
Thanks for asking Capt. Bob. The build itself has slowed some due to trying to get ready to glue the tank well assembly in. Just got the chase tubes but not installed, got the expanding foam (experimenting with it has been fun). Ordered the paint to do the bilges, lockers and anywhere else, ordered primer, ordered topcoat paint to do the sides.
Will paint the midship bilge, aft bilge and the rear lockers hoping in the next week or so. Have to work this weekend to go back to my old days off of Monday and Tuesday. But I will have some time Sunday, Monday and then Tuesday to work on getting the details done to mount the wells. I hate sanding the fiberglass but that is something I have been putting off as long as possible so once I put on my top half dust suit I can get it all knocked out at once. Then shower it all off. But no updated pictures.
8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jul 22, 2018 10:28 am
by OrangeQuest
Doing a few hours of sanding and I am cheap so I connected the wet/dry vac up to my sander which works pretty good. But after a few hours of sanding I emptied the bucket. I ran!

3353

Next time I will try to wet it down first to keep the dust down.
:D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jul 22, 2018 10:37 am
by Eric1
It can sure feel like that. :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jul 22, 2018 11:56 am
by OrangeQuest
Eric1 wrote: Sun Jul 22, 2018 10:37 am It can sure feel like that. :lol:
I too do not like sanding fiberglass. :( With a dust suit/mask on and this heat I feel like I am in a loose fitting wet suit. Sweat is dripping everywhere that is not covered even out of the elastic sleeves.


I am almost done but the heat is climbing rapidly. More breaks more often. Beer o'clock is quickly approaching!! :)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jul 22, 2018 12:13 pm
by Fuzz
This is one place where having a really good vac system on your sander really pays off. I broke down and bought a FessTool system not long ago and could not believe how nice it works. It just took some time to get over the pain in my wallet :help:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jul 22, 2018 12:51 pm
by Bogieman
:lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jul 22, 2018 1:24 pm
by OrangeQuest
You know it's hot when you stand under an outdoor shower and when the water hits your skin it sizzles like hitting a hot skillet and steam goes everywhere! 8O Running around with just a swim suit on!! Why are those people staring?

Bogie I am borrowing your idea of using the belt sander in areas it can reach. 5" orbiter to fill in and then the HF SOB tool for the tight places. Sand an area, blow out with air, vacuum up the loose stuff and then damp sponge, repeat over and over! :cry: Fuzz I tried to go to the FessTool website and a warning popped up saying I was blocked due to I can't afford to look! 8O WTH!! :doh:

I think I am ready to neat epoxy the holes for the chase tubes and a few areas that I may have got carried away with the sanding. Then final routing of the roughing in the chase tubes, drain tube and maybe this week some foam!!!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jul 22, 2018 9:00 pm
by OrangeQuest
So I sanded all areas that will be primed and painted below the sole and aft lockers. Sanded the port side down to the chine, still need to do starboard side. Sanded the frames where the walls of the tank wells will be. Went over all holes that were cut for chase tubes and drain tubes with neat epoxy. Neat epoxy on any areas that looked like bare wood was still exposed.

Grab a beer and cleaned up to go home. Then it hit me :doh: I didn't cut holes to route the hoses for the bilge pumps! 8O Both bilge pump mounting plates need gluing in and the well pump mounting plate. Should be a few hours of work. Happy I got so much rough sanding done.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jul 23, 2018 9:47 am
by Dougster
Sounds like good but hard earned progress. i know sanding in this heat is miserable. Heck it's no fun in any weather to me. I once asked a respected pro carpenter if there was any way to make sanding pleasant. He answered, immediately and unequivocally "N0!". Pretty sure he's right.

Dougster

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jul 23, 2018 9:31 pm
by OrangeQuest
Dougster wrote: Mon Jul 23, 2018 9:47 am Sounds like good but hard earned progress. i know sanding in this heat is miserable. Heck it's no fun in any weather to me. I once asked a respected pro carpenter if there was any way to make sanding pleasant. He answered, immediately and unequivocally "N0!". Pretty sure he's right.

Dougster
This was a lot of work but the last r/c tug I build it had a bunch of scuppers along each side. Sanding those and keeping them all the same was a pain. Took a cheap battery powered toothbrush and cut the bristles off. Glued a small tongue depressor that I shorted a little. Then glued some wet/dry sand paper to it and made quick work of it. Even wet sanded nice. Was still a big pain.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jul 25, 2018 6:22 pm
by OrangeQuest
Not much done today. I mixed a little epoxy glue for something else and had enough to glue in the two pump mounts that are ready. The slotted one on the right is for the well tank pump and the light colored one is for the bilge pump. Still have to cut a hole in the transom for the pick up strainer and the transom drain.
3359
This is a very little bilge. A light amount of sanding and it is almost ready for primer.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jul 27, 2018 10:19 am
by Bogieman
Nice! She's really coming along.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jul 27, 2018 6:45 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thanks Bogieman.

I have been trying to get a lot of little details knocked out ready to do some painting. Finally bought some .5" SS #6X32 bolts and nuts. Glued the bolts into the midship bilge pump mounting plate and it cured overnight. with light sanding this morning making it ready to be glued down. marked and cut the holes for the routing of the midship discharge hose to the port side with the aft bilge discharge hose. cut small hole for control cable to V3 valve. Cut hole for thru fittings for bilge discharge. Cut hole in lower transom for tank well thru hull fitting. Measured and cut aft chase tube mounting plate.

By now it is reaching 104 degrees in the warehouse and the beer is sweating inside the fridge! When straight to mixing epoxy with medium speed hardener, slowest I got. Coated both sides of aft chase tube mounting plate, coated all cut holes with first coat of epoxy to seal. Mixed in some wood flour with remaining epoxy to glue down midship bilge pump mounting plate. Put remaining thicken epoxy into all wet out holes and by now it is getting to hot to hold the solo cup so tossed it in the trash with chip brush. Tossed gloves and saved sweating beer! Closed the warehouse up.

Next chance I get, Monday?, will light sand all the epoxied holes and look for missed spots. Test fix all the valves, pumps' thru hull fittings, route the hoses and chase tubes. Test fix the tank well assemble one last time and if no adjustments remove everything and clean everything to add expanding foam under the tank wells. I still need to cut holes in the aft chase tube mounting plate for the chase tube terminals I got and one more hole in the frame to route the fuel line chase tube to the aft anchor locker but that can be done in the morning.
Where the chase tubes go under the tank wells I will those in and then cut them where they exit the frame into the midship bilge. That will make it easier to prime and paint the midship bilge and then I can run the tubes the rest of the way to the console.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jul 28, 2018 10:50 am
by Eric1
Dang!I thought 95 in my shop was hot! I reckon everything is bigger, err hotter, in Texas! :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jul 28, 2018 9:06 pm
by OrangeQuest
Eric1 wrote: Sat Jul 28, 2018 10:50 am Dang!I thought 95 in my shop was hot! I reckon everything is bigger, err hotter, in Texas! :lol:
That is why I try to get to work before the sun comes up and the temperatures are still in the low 80s.

Have a few more holes I cut today that I will try to coat with epoxy and glue in the aft chase tube mounting plate. Will also try to put on a second coat of epoxy on all the holes already coated after a very light sanding. I have to work a venue tomorrow so will be doing kayak stuff from 7:30 till about 6:00 so can't do to much tomorrow. Also have a new propane smoker I want to test out!!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jul 28, 2018 9:34 pm
by glossieblack
By squeezing in a bit of boat building into your busy schedule as often as possible, slowly but surely you're getting there. Well done. 8) :

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jul 29, 2018 6:13 am
by OrangeQuest
glossieblack wrote: Sat Jul 28, 2018 9:34 pm By squeezing in a bit of boat building into your busy schedule as often as possible, slowly but surely you're getting there. Well done. 8) :
Thank GB! :)

It's all those little thinks that just need a few minutes to mix the epoxy and then dab on. I have about 5 different sizes of drum sanders for my drill that a quick pass in the cured holes make them ready for the next coat. Quick test fit, then epoxy and walk away to start my work day.

This morning will be glue in the aft chase tube mounting plate and more coats in all the holes. I want to sand down the inside walls a little past the where the sole will meet the wall. Thinking I may cut limber hole drains in the frames and stringers so I can wash the dust out when I'm done. The foam will seal them up. Other choice is sponge and water but that will leave some of it behind.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jul 29, 2018 9:06 am
by Dougster
I envy all your energy. Full work day in the heat then build a boat on the side! Oh, and, propane smoker? That sounds interesting. I have an old, much used Cookshack electric smoker I like, but haven't seen a propane one.

Dougster

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jul 29, 2018 9:49 am
by NavyBuilder13
After living in Biloxi for a decade I can appreciate your work ethic in that heat. Cool Build, sometimes I wish I would have done a FS14, FS17 or FS18 to start with, keep at it. Took me a while to catch up on all the builds on this site.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jul 29, 2018 7:35 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thanks guys! Just got back from the venue and grab a cold beer. Walked out into the warehouse to check what I did this morning. Glued/filleted in the aft chase tube mount and wet out a few of the new holes in the boat. Noticed my beer shaking and vapor coming out the top! I thought it was because it was cold but the beer was boiling!!! Almost 107 in the warehouse! I worked under the hood of cars and trucks for over 25 year and they run at 220 to 230 so...
3399
All the beer evaporated out of the first beer so I grabbed a second one and staying in the a/c office! :D

The gas smoker is a first for me too Dougster! I had a charcoal smoker about 20 years ago that I worn out using it. It was one of those that has the fire barrel on the side of the smoker. I would grill and smoke meats like crazy! But I went with something I can use without electricity and charcoal. Got it on clearance at Academy. And I can cook!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jul 29, 2018 8:13 pm
by Fuzz
I guess the heat must be tough all over this summer. It hit 71f here today and SWMBO was whining it was too hot :help:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jul 29, 2018 8:22 pm
by Jaysen
71f is hot? That’s when I start looking for thermal underwear.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jul 31, 2018 10:02 am
by OrangeQuest
So today I started test fitting and trimming, on the aft end, the chase tubes that will be running under the tank wells. Here is a picture of the mess I have going on right now. I am ready to start gluing/sealing all this into the frames but first cool off of the morning I figured I would post something.

The green pieces are pool noodles to give me access to the tank well drains for install and if I need to repair them years down the road. Grey and white PVC pipe that is making the "S" is fuel line only. Exits into the aft anchor locker and it will exit from there with the control cables, engine harness and steering cable, not bundled together. The next two that make slow 90 deg. turns are for electric. Very small tube at the very bottom is a small drain for the water the midship (main) bilge collects but can't pump out. Then the straight white pipe is the over flow drain. It's angled to flow to the transom if the main bilge is collecting water faster than it can discharge or if the main pump fails. Then the off white bigger pipe is the chase tube for the main bilge pump hose. If and service needs to be done to the hose it can be removed without cutting out the tank wells.

3403


One thing I forgot was a tee for the main pump wiring to exit! 8O

Once the epoxy cures that will hold all this into place I can start adding the expanding foam. I am hoping to pour in starting from the center and fill it about half way to the stringers so when I am ready to fill it all the way to the bottom of the tank wells I can lay down clear plastic sheets to keep the foam from sticking to the tank wells but be flush with it.


Always looks good on paper!!! Lets see how that goes! 8O

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jul 31, 2018 11:31 am
by Bogieman
Very nice, OQ! All of your well thought out planning is now materializing into a very nice end product.

Bogie

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jul 31, 2018 12:03 pm
by OrangeQuest
Bogieman wrote: Tue Jul 31, 2018 11:31 am Very nice, OQ! All of your well thought out planning is now materializing into a very nice end product.

Bogie
Thanks Bogieman!! I thought I left out the tee for the bilge pump wiring to come out but it's in the bilge that happens, that's in the NEXT compartment.
That chase tube gets cut and the tee installed close to where the access hatch will be.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jul 31, 2018 3:20 pm
by OrangeQuest
So much for following the plan! Nasty weather was coming in and didn't want to get stuck driving through flood water again.

So Went straight to foaming. Mixed two batches of 400 grams and two at 200 grams. Still have a few areas to fill in but that got the bulk of it taken care of. Oh, the foam has the same effect as PVC glue so the pipe is kind of glued when I poured. Not all the pipes where covered in foam but picked a drop off that hit one of the pipes and you can see where it slightly melted the surface like the PVC glue does so I'm glad I when straight to foam. where the foam oozed out of where the pipes came out the frames I will trim and seal with neat epoxy when I finish foaming in that area.

My green pool noodles wrapped in plastic sheet and taped worked very well but I forgot to tape over the hole in the noodle and it had a pole in the middle when I pulled it out. Getting the first one out of the foam I destroyed it but made adjustments to the second one and I think it will do fine. The plastic sheet on the bottom of the tank well worked but need to put it on before the foam expands upward to much. Nothing a sander can't cure, but did lose the nice smooth surface.

I will take pictures tomorrow, I closed the warehouse doors and ran for my car first sound of thunder. It was pouring by the time I drove the 12 miles to home.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jul 31, 2018 10:33 pm
by timoub007
OQ,

Like I did jumping in to GB's thread this week, I have caught up on yours too. I'm not too far from you and would like to see your build whenever you are ready to show it off. Of course if you need anything and I'm able I will lend a hand. The FS14 is one of the sets of plans I have and may jump off into. I really want to build another boat, but time is not on my side currently.

Tim

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Aug 01, 2018 6:31 am
by OrangeQuest
timoub007 wrote: Tue Jul 31, 2018 10:33 pm OQ,

Like I did jumping in to GB's thread this week, I have caught up on yours too. I'm not too far from you and would like to see your build whenever you are ready to show it off. Of course if you need anything and I'm able I will lend a hand. The FS14 is one of the sets of plans I have and may jump off into. I really want to build another boat, but time is not on my side currently.

Tim
Thank you very much Tim! I thought it was funny you joined the forum before the internet was invented! and you were born!! :lol: I may take you up on your offer!! I am still learning a lot about boat boating and can use all the advice I can get :help: If you read or seen anything that I am doing wrong please advise. :doh:

I am at the warehouse 7 days a week most the time. I manage a small kayaking venue all around Houston, lucky enough to have room in the warehouse for the boat and workshop. I get to work very early in the morning, 6ish, so I can get everything ready for what ever the company is doing for the day but also leave early in the day to get ahead of Houston traffic.
OQ

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Aug 01, 2018 11:50 am
by OrangeQuest
Before and after the pouring of the foam. I think wind, temp, humidity and the angle of the sun all played on how much this stuff expands. That and the fact I guessed as to how much I needed for each area, but I am happy with it. Will be chip brushing some neat epoxy over the foam to make sure it is sealed followed with thickened epoxy and gluing down the tank well assembly.
BEFORE:
3403
AFTER:
3413

Big step!! :D :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Aug 01, 2018 6:56 pm
by Eric1
Oh Yea! 8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Aug 01, 2018 7:04 pm
by OrangeQuest
Well, I am going to sleep on the neat epoxy over the foam give it a little more time to just cure. I checked to make sure my fish tape would still go into all the chase tubes, the drain tube it clear and just needs a little trimming and sanding. I can't think of anything I missed. If I feel good about it in the morning I will do the neat epoxy, mix some thickened epoxy to glue the tank well to the cleats. If I get that far then I will try to fillet the well seams in on Friday, the same day the smoker will be tested!! I never did test fit the plumbing again but getting the wells in shouldn't change anything.
Why am I so nervous about the tank wells?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Aug 02, 2018 3:24 pm
by OrangeQuest
Ok, got to work at 6 this morning and painted( 2" chip brush) neat epoxy over all the exposed foam that I had to sand and down the little folds on the sides, also wetted out the cleats that the tank well rests on. Little over an hour later I mixed the thick epoxy to glue in the tank wells. I built the glue up high on all the cleats and laid the tank well assembly on top of the stuff. A few batteries for weight and I then started work. This is all being done with fast hardeder that has a set time of about 5 minutes in this heat.


Some local teachers hired us for the day to play kayak polo, very fun day!! But takes a lot out of me being a ref.


The glue was set so pulled the weight off and started the fillets. With the thick glue and it being heavy on the cleats got a lot of goos squeeze out so the bottom was easy to fill the gaps. Only problem is trying to get the fillets "clean" before the epoxy gels. The fast will heat up in a hurry and when it starts to happen you have about 40 seconds to stop spreading or it will clump. This heat, fillet mix with wood flour and fast hardener is a younger man's game. I had to just walk away at half finished with the fillets. Tomorrow I will use the meduim and do it in the cool morning...below 90's.


We had a "COLD" front move in, the early morning temps have been mid to high 70's in my area. Then the sun comes up and everything truns to steam.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Aug 02, 2018 3:34 pm
by Jeff
OQ, we need a "Cold" front to move through Florida!!!! It is a hot summer!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Aug 02, 2018 4:04 pm
by Fuzz
I get tired of the cold weather here at times but I really do not understand how you guys survive in that heat.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Aug 02, 2018 5:06 pm
by Bogieman
That's why you'll never see me using fast hardener. I'm just too slow :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Aug 02, 2018 5:09 pm
by OrangeQuest
Jeff wrote: Thu Aug 02, 2018 3:34 pm OQ, we need a "Cold" front to move through Florida!!!! It is a hot summer!! Jeff
And to think two more months before it starts to cool a little.
Fuzz wrote: Thu Aug 02, 2018 4:04 pm I get tired of the cold weather here at times but I really do not understand how you guys survive in that heat.
Lots of water activities!! And cold beer! :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Aug 02, 2018 5:47 pm
by OrangeQuest
Bogieman wrote: Thu Aug 02, 2018 5:06 pm That's why you'll never see me using fast hardener. I'm just too slow :D
All my pieces are getting 3.25oz glass instead of just neat epoxy to seal. The fast has been very handy for all the little pieces of wood mounts I made and when I laid glass on the frames. If I wet out and then glass all on one side early in the morning then I can flip it the same day and glass the other side. I do it on plastic trash bags taped on the work bench. Very little of it sticks. When I glued all my pump and control valve mounts in I made thicken glue that didn't run almost like fillet putty. Scraped the glue on the edge, press into place, nice squeeze out, made fillets with my finger and few minutes later it is setting up with no sagging, no runs.

Batches were to big today and used to much wood flour. My normal batch is 50 grams of resin and 21/22 grams of hardener. 20 to 25 grams of wood flour after mix. I wasn't measuring the wood flour so it was to thick and wasn't going down into the gaps without forcing it (broke my lollypop stick!) and couldn't get clean fillets then. Started to late in the day with temps in the high 90s.
All the walls where they meet the frames have 1/8" gaps for the epoxy. There are 3 in the front and 3 in the back. I was trying to force the putty in the gap and then drag upward to make fillets on both sides at the same time. If you do it single you force the putty out the other side and you go back and forth with it. I will use my fingers in the morning and hope they don't break!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Aug 02, 2018 9:51 pm
by Bogieman
You are cruising right along. Happy for you but I'm a bit jealous because it's rained here for close to a month straight and my build has come to a stand still. The neighbors are asking if my boat is ready for the "Big Flood". As I write this it's getting ready to storm again.

Anyway, keep up the good work.

Bogie

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Aug 04, 2018 4:29 am
by glossieblack
Nice steady progress OQ. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Aug 05, 2018 6:21 am
by OrangeQuest
Thanks Bogieman and Glossieblack.

This weekend I am a little busy with working venues. Saturday I was a ref to kayak polo for a few hours but this time I was in my kayak. Called short due to a rain storm that moved fast but dumped a lot of cold rain on us. We loaded all the gear back on the trailer the full time it was raining, stopped when we were done. Cold and damp I just went home to a hot shower.

No real work being done to the build. I have to clean up my fillets in the tank wells, I did trim the two expanding foam corners and ready for those to be glued in. Game plan is forming on getting the next two done and in. I cut a 5 gallon bucket in half to use for the radius but doesn't work very well when I try to make a form from it. May try and form the corner in the bait well. Could be a "hold my beer " moment coming up on that one.

When I was doing the fillets for the wells I was pressing so hard to get the putty into the gaps that when I would get to the top a few times the putty would fling of. I found a little wad of it stuck to the bow, I'm working at the transom! 8O I may have to inspect for more stuck to the kayaks stored about the build!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Aug 05, 2018 8:25 am
by Bogieman
:lol: Now that's funny!
It's going to rain AGAIN here today so now I'm starting to chip away at other projects. Today's mission: Install new kitchen counter tops. Sounds fun right?...

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Aug 05, 2018 10:29 pm
by OrangeQuest
Bogieman wrote: Sun Aug 05, 2018 8:25 am :lol: Now that's funny!
It's going to rain AGAIN here today so now I'm starting to chip away at other projects. Today's mission: Install new kitchen counter tops. Sounds fun right?...
When you said you wanted a little galley on your boat we were talking portable stuff and now you are talking kitchen countertops!!? 8O Does sound fun!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Aug 06, 2018 5:36 pm
by Bogieman
OrangeQuest wrote: Sun Aug 05, 2018 10:29 pm
Bogieman wrote: Sun Aug 05, 2018 8:25 am :lol: Now that's funny!
It's going to rain AGAIN here today so now I'm starting to chip away at other projects. Today's mission: Install new kitchen counter tops. Sounds fun right?...
When you said you wanted a little galley on your boat we were talking portable stuff and now you are talking kitchen countertops!!? 8O Does sound fun!
:lol: Guess I should've mentioned they were going in the house, not the boat.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Aug 06, 2018 6:08 pm
by OrangeQuest
Bogieman wrote: Mon Aug 06, 2018 5:36 pm
OrangeQuest wrote: Sun Aug 05, 2018 10:29 pm
Bogieman wrote: Sun Aug 05, 2018 8:25 am :lol: Now that's funny!
It's going to rain AGAIN here today so now I'm starting to chip away at other projects. Today's mission: Install new kitchen counter tops. Sounds fun right?...
When you said you wanted a little galley on your boat we were talking portable stuff and now you are talking kitchen countertops!!? 8O Does sound fun!
:lol: Guess I should've mentioned they were going in the house, not the boat.
8O :oops: :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Aug 09, 2018 1:20 pm
by OrangeQuest
looks Like not much work on the boat this week. Got a stand up paddle class coming up for 10 people so I need 10 good boards plus two for the instructors. We had 3 of our boards come loose from the trailer and got a little banged up. I had a few boards I needed to patch up from last year so the company already had a small thing of epoxy and clothe. I have 5 good boards that don't need anything and 3 that need major damage repaired. Have all 3 waiting for the first "patch" to cure. I am trying to get as much done as possible so the epoxy has time to cure before soaking in water for a few hours 2 weekends from now. I have 6 more to inspect but most the time the noses are all busted up from hitting the docks and such. Also have the bottom edges missing from dragging through the sand at the beach. Will be a long few weeks.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Aug 16, 2018 1:46 am
by glossieblack
Happy birthday OQ! :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Aug 16, 2018 7:11 am
by Jeff
OQ, Happy Birthday and try to stay cool today!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Aug 16, 2018 9:35 am
by Bogieman
Happy birthday OQ! Hope you get some time to work on the boat today.

Bogie

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Aug 16, 2018 9:51 am
by Capt UB
OQ,

Happy Bday Brother!


.
.
kayak july 2008 001.jpg
kayak july 2008 001.jpg (93.99 KiB) Viewed 2727 times

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Aug 16, 2018 10:25 am
by OrangeQuest
:D Thanks guys!!

Capt Bob that is just like my Hobie was!!! Good match up! :lol: :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Aug 16, 2018 3:30 pm
by Capt UB
Ken was this the FS14 you have?

FS14 Project Give away
Post by cfelle2 » Mon Oct 30, 2017 9:12 am

I have an FS14 project to give away to someone who would like to complete it. It has been assembled bottom glassed and turned upright. It is built with high quality marine plywood. I need the space andI have to get rid of it ASAP.

Here is a link to some pictures.
https://photos.app.goo.gl/h4Ue8sCvndo25rKN2

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Aug 16, 2018 6:00 pm
by OrangeQuest
Yes it is! We drove to Chicago and bought the trailer that the boat was sitting on. Then Chris gave me the supplies he had left for it.

Made the trip in about 33 hours.

Right after we got it to Houston and took the cover off.
1958
I took all the frames out and well, you know where I am now.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Aug 16, 2018 6:29 pm
by OrangeQuest
Did take most the morning sanding and then sanding and more sanding the bait well just to cover all the sanding with foam. But here is how I made nice big corners in the bait well. cut a 5 gallon bucket in half, then cut the bottom off but this time I used the SOB saw and it didn't break it all to hell. Very old bucket. As you can see I clamped it in then taped the bottom and up the sides to keep the foam contained. Took 100 grams of each A and B. Temperature was around 100+ degrees so as soon as the two parts are poured together it's about fast mixing and pour as it expands. I don't think I had 10 seconds of mixing before it started to expand. I eyeballed about half, was not very close, in one and the rest in the other corner.
3503
Didn't look like it would be enough and everyone was waiting to take me to birthday drinking (lunch for everyone else, party poopers). Walked away for a few minutes and when I came back the first corner was erupting!! 8O Second one was not so exciting. :( Went to lunch.

Came back and pulled the bucket out but it broke into a hundred pieces so tomorrow I will use the other half to finish to the top. Just need to fillet the bottom of this one. Then trim the fuzz of the other two corners and glue them in and then lay glass all the way around from top to bottom. You really can't tell but that whole bait well is already lined with the 3.25oz cloth. I think the wet out of the finally cloth I will use tinted epoxy to start coloring the inside of it.

3504

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Aug 16, 2018 8:08 pm
by OrangeQuest
So if the foam works for the corners of the bait well I may next start with the forward beverage cooler. While looking at switches I came across this one and think I could hook this to a float switch in the cooler mounted upside down. As the beverages are pulled out the ice goes down and the switch drops sounding the alarm. 8)
3505

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Aug 16, 2018 9:58 pm
by piperdown
OrangeQuest wrote: Thu Aug 16, 2018 8:08 pm So if the foam works for the corners of the bait well I may next start with the forward beverage cooler. While looking at switches I came across this one and think I could hook this to a float switch in the cooler mounted upside down. As the beverages are pulled out the ice goes down and the switch drops sounding the alarm. 8)
3505
I LIKE that!! :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Aug 17, 2018 6:28 pm
by OrangeQuest
A whole lot more sanding in the bait well area today but I was finally ready to pour the final foam down into the corner. I also glued the other corners in and will be ready to do some fairing and the final glass. I used the SOB saw and cut the center top of the foam out so I will be making a filler for that and the fillets.

3506

After the glass cured and sand it a little could I use white primer and then blue tinted epoxy?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Aug 17, 2018 7:14 pm
by Jeff
Really well done OQ!! Have a good weekend, Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Aug 18, 2018 9:50 am
by Eric1
Bait tank is looking good. You're doing a great job on your build! :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Aug 18, 2018 6:16 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thanks Jeff and Eric.

Eric, I have never liked manual sanding and there is a lot on such a small area, but I want it to be right.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Aug 20, 2018 9:38 pm
by OrangeQuest
It has been a hard two weeks getting all those paddle boards patched and sanded. If they hold up a few more months I can think about painting them in the fall. From all the hand sanding on the boards my arms need a rest. That maybe why I don't like using so much elbow grease on the bait well.
I ordered a mini belt sander and some cone sanding rolls from a body shop supply house online. See how they work. Any extra mixed epoxy from the boards I have been rushing it on to the boat to keep from wasting any. Hard going from outside spreading to inside curves and corners. I think I have it where it just needs a little fairing and the finish glass. The live well will just get over size fillets and then a coat of neat epoxy and no mural. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Aug 21, 2018 3:18 am
by glossieblack
Nice steady progress OQ. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Aug 24, 2018 9:33 pm
by OrangeQuest
Not much work on the boat this week. Little mini belt sander came in and it is cheap. After taking most of it apart I got the belt to stay on but it is a piece of junk. I need to put guides on both sides so the belt will stay on better. When the belt stays on and 80 grit belt it makes quick work of cleaning up fillets and little hard to reach spots. The sanding rolls are working really well. They are kind of like a flapper wheel but 1/2" diameter. Got a 4" mandrel with them and an roughness left by the belt sander they clean things up nicely. Can now run my finger in the fillets and they are very smooth.

Drilled the transom drain hole also this week. Been a long hot week.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Aug 25, 2018 7:01 am
by Eric1
Hang in there OQ! You're getting it done.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Aug 25, 2018 8:45 am
by Bogieman
Yup, what Eric said. 8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Aug 25, 2018 9:05 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thanks guys!

The bait well is ready for the finish cloth!! :D The live well just needs a little more sanding, I felt a few areas of roughness still on the bottom.
Wetting out and getting the final glass on the bait well is going to be tricky. The big curves and angled bottom I am not sure how to get it all laid where there won't be a lot of sanding afterwards. Even the 3.25oz cloth will be bunching up. I did have a very crazy thought this morning. It's one of those "hold my beer" thoughts 8O
I have some big thick balloons and water! I could wet out the glass with a little extra amount of epoxy and then put the balloon in the middle and fill it up with water. The water will hopefully keep the balloon from getting to hot and burst. The weight of the water will press down the glass enough to form fit everything to the walls. Just needs to hold 8 gallons! Crazy right?
3563
The little one is the bait well.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Aug 25, 2018 9:14 pm
by OrangeQuest
Big balloon!
3564

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Aug 26, 2018 2:04 am
by Fuzz
Careful with the water. It would really suck if it got all over your wet epoxy :help:
I am guessing the mini sander came from Harbor Freight? I got one and it is handy for a few things but it will never be confused for a quality tool.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Aug 26, 2018 7:21 am
by Jeff
Nice work on your bait well! I will watch your completion with interest!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Aug 26, 2018 8:48 am
by OrangeQuest
Thanks Jeff, It's like watching something you know is not good but can't look away right!! :D

My thoughts exactly Fuzz, so I cut, trimmed and test fitted the bottom this morning and I was worried over nothing.
The mini belt sander is a Body Shop brand but I am sure that it is close to the same craftsmanship. It works with a lot of effort.
3565
Seen where Fallguy said on light glass he doesn't wet the surface first so I will try that method on this.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Aug 26, 2018 6:38 pm
by OrangeQuest
Ok. Not wetting the surface before laying glass does not work...FOR ME! My glass was moving all over the place when I was trying to spread the epoxy. It would fold over the chip brush was pulling it up and it didn't stick even after I got the epoxy spread. Lucky for me it did not soak through and was able to pull the glass up before it cost me to much work. Water balloon idea is starting to sound better and better! Little bit more sanding and start over. I will say I like the color of equal parts of blue and white tint made a very soothing color, the bait fish will love it. May make it hard to get them in a net to put on a hook!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Aug 27, 2018 7:35 am
by topwater
I did all my soles and and deck that way, first thing is stop using chip brushes to spread epoxy, use rollers
and spreaders . pour a bit of epoxy in the center of the lay up give it a couple of seconds to soak through
and spread with the roller. Pull any excess pooling epoxy with the spreader to dry areas. Always work
from the center out in all directions . Once you get use to it it is a real fast way to spread epoxy over
large and small areas. Hope this helps.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Aug 27, 2018 10:12 am
by OrangeQuest
Thank you Topwater for the input, I followed your method for the most part. I did start with a chip brush and I poured some in the center and waited a few seconds but this well bottom is not flat, it is angled, so the epoxy started running. Used the chip brush to try and keep the puddle in the center but the glass moved with just the brush touching the epoxy and not the glass. Very small area and 3.25oz glass. Once the glass moved the sides started to roll over and in the past I could touch the edge of the glass with a wet brush and roll it back up but not this time. I grabbed my 2" roller and tried spreading it and the glass just slid out of place and the edges kept falling down. I could not get it to smooth out without causing air pockets under the glass in the fillets. It was like I was trying to get something to stay put on ice. After fighting with it for a while the surface of the glass was starting to stick to my roller and pulling it up even more so I pulled the glass up and off the surface, it wasn't sticking at all and this was blue tint epoxy. Wiped off what I could that was left behind. I will re-sand it and try again the way I know works for me.

After I cut and trim a new piece of glass I will put a few index marks on the glass and well so I can do the wet out, then lay the glass in, lining up the index marks. I will also use clear epoxy so I can see the index marks and put a final coat of tinted epoxy after I get the cloth on. So much for short cuts.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Aug 28, 2018 7:21 am
by topwater
Sounds like you got the glass floating in the epoxy. Use what works for you , the boat is looking great :!:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Aug 28, 2018 6:11 pm
by OrangeQuest
I am accustom to having a tacky surface to just stick and wet. Did read where you had to have skills to do it, which I didn't bring with me! :)
I did get a good tinted epoxy mix out of it. First time I couldn't see through the tint. What's a little more sanding anyway? :cry:

Thanks for the praise Topwater, it's getting there. I want to finish the wells to see them work, or not.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Aug 29, 2018 6:13 am
by OrangeQuest
I may just go into work today and start cleaning everything up. Have a few meetings this week but nothing else really going on. Warehouse is getting a little stuffed with junk I need to find places for. Biggest part of our season is over with and just doing private events during the week. Will have lots of time to work on the boat so a clean shop will make it even better. I am a pack rat when it comes to recycling. 8O

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Aug 29, 2018 8:03 am
by Jeff
OQ, Glad to see you back on the Forum!! Sorry you had issues!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Aug 29, 2018 8:08 am
by OrangeQuest
Jeff wrote: Wed Aug 29, 2018 8:03 am OQ, Glad to see you back on the Forum!! Sorry you had issues!! Jeff
Thanks Jeff!! Happy to be back. With my post count starting over I don't look like such a forum troll! 8O

I should have looked at my computer where I have it store all my passwords before going into panic mode. Thank you very much for getting me back up and running!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Aug 29, 2018 9:40 am
by Capt UB
Now that's funny....

forum trol
download.jpg
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Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Aug 29, 2018 2:54 pm
by Bogieman
:lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Aug 29, 2018 5:05 pm
by OrangeQuest
No updated pictures today but I did sand, trim new glass and got it wetted out for the bottom of both wells. Tomorrow I will use the SOB saw to trim down a few of the edges I just couldn't get to lay down and were folded. I will then feather the edges and maybe lay the side glass on maybe one, maybe both. I have to pull a storage unit apart starting around 9 A.M. Only gives me about 3 hours.

Friday will be clamping the cleats on to cure for the well tank deck. Then tint the wells. That way I can coat the cleats and sand them down for the well deck. I will also start finishing up all the aft lockers (3 counting the bilge) so I can install the plumbing for the wells and rat rod test the system!!
Really didn't want to go any farther with them till I finished the wells because of all the drips I keep having. Wow, lot of work still to be done in such a small area. 8O

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Aug 30, 2018 10:08 am
by OrangeQuest
Ok, these wells are fighting me on getting this last layer of glass on. Hindsight I should have put glass on the bucket that formed the two big corners and then foamed it. The ones that I did it to are pretty solid with just epoxy. Anyway, Had everything ready this morning to finish up the walls and even was going to use a roller to lay the glass. Wetted out the sides of both wells and waited for the epoxy to get tacky. Gave it the standard 15 minutes and went to attach the cloth. Got to the first corner and the glass started to fall off and not stick. 8O WTH??? Touched the wet epoxy and it was still very wet!!!WTH??? Then I thought I screwed up and used resin twice and no hardener. Pulled the glass that by now was not useable anymore. Waited another 15 minutes and still not tacky!! So I started to use isotope alcohol to remove everything. Ran out of the stuff and still have a few places that are gummy. But it will be a set back. Then I remembered the temperatures had dropped to the high 70s last night!! 8O opps! Have full wait times for epoxy to kick!! :cry: :cry:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Aug 30, 2018 11:17 am
by Fuzz
Dang, temp dropping down into the high 70's overnight. Must be near freezing there :lol:
I glass in 60f almost all the time. You have to learn to wait, it is going to take some time. Pretty common for me to glass and then walk away till the next morning.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Aug 30, 2018 12:23 pm
by OrangeQuest
Fuzz wrote: Thu Aug 30, 2018 11:17 am Dang, temp dropping down into the high 70's overnight. Must be near freezing there :lol:
I glass in 60f almost all the time. You have to learn to wait, it is going to take some time. Pretty common for me to glass and then walk away till the next morning.
Getting in the 60s is deep winter here!!! Most the time! Just put epoxy on yesterday and had 10 minutes before it was tacky. Green in about 3 hours and rock hard in 12. But the temps were in the mid 90s.


It is getting hard now. Hope I can sand what is left in the morning and try again. It will be the third try at the finishing glass. On a positive note, the bottom glass work came out great! :)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Aug 30, 2018 12:45 pm
by Fuzz
54f here this morning and blowing a full gale. Had to call off a fishing trip this morning. Getting old and becoming a wimp :cry:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Aug 31, 2018 9:06 am
by Capt UB
Why don't you stop and work on another part of the boat for awhile. The bait wells are getting old, need photos and stories of you working else where on the boat!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Aug 31, 2018 9:18 am
by glossieblack
OQ, my 2 cents worth is to keep running your own race, and ignore the urgers. That's what I try to do. :wink:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Aug 31, 2018 9:27 am
by Jaysen
glossieblack wrote: Fri Aug 31, 2018 9:18 am OQ, my 2 cents worth is to keep running your own race, and ignore the urgers. That's what I try to do. :wink:
Dang it GB! Stop using success as an example for others!

Seriously though... that's some good advice. Your boat. Your plan, Your timeline.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Aug 31, 2018 9:52 am
by Bogieman
I admire your perseverance. You are making her into a piece of art. You'd probably be finished by now had you chose to build her according to the original plans, but then she wouldn't be the boat you really wanted. Not sure I understand everything about the bait wells ( heck I didn't even know that bait fish prefer curved walls) but I'm sure you'll get it figured out.

About the epoxy cure time: There were a couple times (when the temps were in the 70s and even the lower 80s here) where the stuff took forever to get tacky and I thought I'd screwed up the mix ratio on the resin. That's a horrible feeling, especially if you've done a big area. Luckily I've mixed everything correctly so far but it is amazing how much things change between 70 and 90. I've used only the slow speed so far and there have been several times (temps in the 90s) where even the slow was too fast for me.

Have a great weekend.

Bogie

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Aug 31, 2018 10:41 am
by OrangeQuest
Jaysen wrote: Fri Aug 31, 2018 9:27 am
glossieblack wrote: Fri Aug 31, 2018 9:18 am OQ, my 2 cents worth is to keep running your own race, and ignore the urgers. That's what I try to do. :wink:
Dang it GB! Stop using success as an example for others!

Seriously though... that's some good advice. Your boat. Your plan, Your timeline.
Yes it is and I have always played to my on tune, even if I am tone deaf! :lol:
Capt UB wrote: Fri Aug 31, 2018 9:06 am Why don't you stop and work on another part of the boat for awhile. The bait wells are getting old, need photos and stories of you working else where on the boat!
Capt GUB I would but I just can't walk away. One thing I don't do is keep doing something the same way expecting different results.

This morning I cut the longer piece into two. Clamped up one piece and trimmed it out. Flipped it out of the way and wetted the sides down, flipped the glass back and wetted the outside, it worked ok. Next piece I also clamped, trimmed but just put the epoxy on the cloth where it laid, also worked well. Have a few creases I couldn't get out but they will sand out. This is the live well and not for showing off. I even tinted the epoxy.

The temp was 79 this morning before day light so close to the same as yesterday, but I am ready this time. 10 grams of white, 5 grams of blue and finished with resin to get to 50g. Mixed very well and then added 21 grams of med hardener. Was just enough to do one half. Same blend for the second half. Waiting now for the epoxy to turn green before going to the bait well.

I liked the way clamping the glass in place before trimming and then putting the epoxy on with it already in place. It does work. I will also be using my more expensive roller cover. One thing I did notice, if you are going to use tinted epoxy, use it on the glass. The cloth that I did is tinted light blue but where it was rolled on cured epoxy it is still translucent.


Thank you Bogieman, I didn't know anything about bait keeping till I joined the forum.

The well tank plumbing is not that complicated. It is two systems that use one pump which there is one 3-way valve to control flow to one tank or the other. There is another 3-way valve that controls drainage from one tank or the other. If I am using both tanks at the same time water fills one and then over flows to the other. Then drains back from the second. It also uses an automatic valve that will supply fresh water when off plan but will switch to recirculate when the pick up is out of water like planning. The system also will have an overflow so it doesn't get to full. The Automatic valve can be switched to drain. I turn off the pump, move selector to drain and all the water in the wells will drain out the pick up. So it only drains on plan or on trailer. It is also a one-way valve so no water comes back in. You don't have to plug anything to keep the tanks dry.


To offset the weight of the water in the wells I am moving the console forward enough so the boat will be trimmed with just me and the 170 pounds of water in the tanks. If I am alone and not fishing then the tanks are used as ballast. With motor, accessories, my big butt, and water in the tanks the boat will be at max weight capacity. Crazy right!?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Aug 31, 2018 12:25 pm
by OrangeQuest
Both wells glassed in. You can see the difference in tinted glass and cured tinted.
3584

Other things I have been doing to boat:
Cut drain holes in transom and filling back in. I fill and then sand, fill and then sand, fill and then sand. Once it is close to 100% round it is finished as long as fitting fits. One for well pick up and the left one is bilge drain.
3585

Aft anchor locker. I cut the tube for the anchor awhile back. The tube it the lenght of the whole anchor. It will be embedded into expanding foam with a glass and epoxy top. foam pad in the very bottom to keep noise down. Thinking I may put a small frame to block off where the fuel line and bilge wiring come through. Also the control cables will come through this locker.
3586

This is a spacer I am going to use for the garboard drain. It is upside down in this picture. It will be glued to the transom and then final trimmed to the hull and transom. Once it is trimmed and sanded to shape I will glass it over. I want my drain to be only at a slight angle to the bottom for more complete draining of the bilge when the boat is on the trailer.
3587


How is that for pictures and update on other areas I have been working on?

Also due to the heat here, I have been emptying a lot of these cans in the afternoons. Most of the liquid evaporates as soon as I open them so it might take 3 cans to get 12 ounces. 8)
3588

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Aug 31, 2018 1:43 pm
by Bogieman
Wow! You are busy. And that last pic :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Aug 31, 2018 11:03 pm
by ctbeutel
The live wells look great! Love the blue.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Sep 01, 2018 5:31 am
by OrangeQuest
Thank you!

I slept on what to do about the bottom not being blue and I think I will do some sanding, then lay more glass with blue tint when I wet it. I don't see where I have a choice to get the same color. :?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Sep 01, 2018 6:18 am
by glossieblack
8) 8) 8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Sep 01, 2018 11:27 am
by OrangeQuest
Well, tinting tanks wells 2.0
I like the results and after a light sanding chances are goo that it will be time to move to something else. Maybe clean up the control valve locker and the bilge so the plumbing can be installed!

3593

Still needs to cure and I did this with the lay glass, pour some in the middle, wait to count of 10, and roll away from puddle only while holding glass from moving. Rolling only away from the puddle made for everything staying in place and no wrinkles. Did have to use the 1" chip bruch down in the curves where even the 2" roller couldn't reach.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Sep 01, 2018 5:58 pm
by OrangeQuest
Since there was an 80% chance of rain forecasted for the day, more in the afternoon, and it was sprinkling this morning when I canceled all our venues for the day. Rained pretty hard till about 10 then sun came out for the rest of the day. Love the way the weather can be so unpredictable. :? Was able to go to one of our venues to check the small lake to see if we can do R/C sailboats in it. There was no way sailboats with 17" keel below the surface would work. Recommended little electric airboats. It's what flood control uses for getting to all the log jams and there were a lot of them in use during the floods of Harvey so I think they would work pretty good. Anyway, I gave myself the day off!

As I have posted I got the wells tinted and they turned out pretty good. I did a little trimming of the drain holes once the epoxy harden a little. I started cutting cleats and frames for the deck that will cover the wells. I cleaned up the control valve locker and it's ready for painting. The cleats for the wash deck that covers it are ready to glue in. Will put them in before I prime and paint. I have to build a frame for the hatch to bolt to. Also did more sanding and cleaning in the bilge. Got a lot done today. All the little things I have been doing when I have been waiting on other things is paying off now.

On the way home I stopped by Academy to see what they put on clearance this week. A ladder I passed on 3 or 4 months back, could see a need or a place for it, they had another one pop up. $89.00 ladder on sale for $17.00. I think it will mount where the aft anchor locker hatch will be. It would fold flat on the wash deck and pivot off the transom. Made of 316 SS and it's a real ladder! :D
3600
Like this one but in stainless steel

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Sep 02, 2018 1:31 pm
by OrangeQuest
So I canceled all venues again today. Stopped raining right afterwards and not a drop since. :?

The new Ladder was going to attach to the starboard wash deck with aft anchor locker hatch between the mounts but the hatch is just to big. Another option I am not to keen about is it bolt to the transom pointed downward on the port side. Don't see it being used much but would of been nice to have it on the wash deck. I will have to think about it.

Started gluing the livewell hatch support frames together on the work bench. Got the control valve locker hatch support frames next to them all glued up. Also glued the cleats in for the port splash deck and the tank well decks. Also glued the transom drain spacer in. A lot of epoxy all over the work shop curing!! Now just drinking cold beer watching the epoxy cure. Can't do anything else. may call it a day and head home early.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Sep 02, 2018 1:47 pm
by Jeff
Great price on the ladder OQ!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Sep 02, 2018 5:15 pm
by OrangeQuest
Jeff wrote: Sun Sep 02, 2018 1:47 pm Great price on the ladder OQ!!! Jeff
Was to good a price to pass up the second time.

You guys in Florida look like there are warnings all over the state!! Time to batten down the hatches. Stay safe!
We are starting to get flash flood watches here.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Sep 03, 2018 6:29 am
by OrangeQuest
Can't really blame the forecasters for predicting really bad weather all Labor Day weekend and then not much rain in our areas. Guess they are still gun shy on how badly Harvey Flooded the area and going for the better safe than sorry. As a outfitter and putting people on the water I have to respect that, something happens to someone due to weather then the company is at risk of liability.

So I get my normal day off back! Was going into the warehouse anyway so I will spend it working on the boat. If the low pressure system over us does start dumping rain I can rush over to our venue on the bayou and get our gear. Wheeeeew! :(

Because I really want to mount the ladder to the aft wash deck I have started to re-think the rear starboard hatch. The opening for the hatch is the perfect size, so I can keep the wood cut for the deck. Just add layers under it to beef it up more and change the direction the hatch opens.
Hope this doesn't turn into a "hold my beer" moment! 8O

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Sep 03, 2018 6:37 am
by glossieblack
When a well prepared design mind collides with a chance opportunity, invariably the design modification is the better for it. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Sep 03, 2018 11:11 am
by OrangeQuest
glossieblack wrote: Mon Sep 03, 2018 6:37 am When a well prepared design mind collides with a chance opportunity, invariably the design modification is the better for it. :D
Most the time that is the case but this time it looks like at best it is an add on to the rouge design. :D
I tried everyway I could but nothing short of making the wash deck flat is going to work. So back to what I was thinking yesterday, it gets mounted to the transom.

Once the mounts are in place I will pull the two pivot bolts and replace them with quick release pins that will be attached via small braid line. When the ladder is not needed it will be stowed. There will also be an "OPPS" line that will keep the ladder from falling to the depths. I will put a padded handle on the mounts so the mounts will not look out of place and they will service duel purpose.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Sep 05, 2018 3:44 pm
by OrangeQuest
Ok, an hour trying to figure out how to mount a ladder the way it was designed to be mounted. That's not happening by design. :?

So I have started putting cleats in the tank wells and electrical areas to get ready to mount the tank well deck. I have two of the five hatch frames built, sealed and are now installed waiting for the glue to cure. Final coat of tinted epoxy is just that, final! Cleats for the control valve locker have been sanded and sealed. Oh and the control valve locker has been primed. Will be painting it soon and most of the plumbing can be install afterward.
3618

Testing of the system will be very soon! Will have to make a small platform a cooler can sit on to simulate the boat on the water. Run a hose from the cooler to the V3 valve, fill the cooler to DWL or see how high the water needs to be before the system works. Keep in mind I don't have the over flow system installed yet so that part will not be tested. But think I can simulate it going from no water coming into the system, fill off plane and then recirculate on plane, automatically. Then turn the pump off and see if all drains. I can see some playing coming up!!!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Sep 05, 2018 4:18 pm
by Bogieman
That looks good, OQ! Things are really coming together nicely.

Bogie

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Sep 05, 2018 6:56 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thanks Bogie! Looks like you guys are in for some rough weather soon.

Question :?: Blue, to match the wells, white, to contrast the blue and make it lighter or red, to make the wells look purple but maybe help my night vision? Mullet or shrimp will be the bait of choice.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Sep 06, 2018 9:01 am
by Capt UB
OQ,

Don't mount the ladder yet. What till you have been in the water.

I installed a ladder on my 145 Scout CC and found out it was more work to use it were it was then just climbing over the gunwale! I did find another ladder and it worked great, for me and the young ones. I only was able to see how it would really work by being in the water!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Sep 06, 2018 9:04 am
by Capt UB
OrangeQuest wrote: Wed Sep 05, 2018 6:56 pm Thanks Bogie! Looks like you guys are in for some rough weather soon.

Question :?: Blue, to match the wells, white, to contrast the blue and make it lighter or red, to make the wells look purple but maybe help my night vision? Mullet or shrimp will be the bait of choice.
You know...... they would work as a Slurpee machine also! :wink:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Sep 06, 2018 9:49 am
by OrangeQuest
Capt UB wrote: Thu Sep 06, 2018 9:01 am OQ,

Don't mount the ladder yet. What till you have been in the water.

I installed a ladder on my 145 Scout CC and found out it was more work to use it were it was then just climbing over the gunwale! I did find another ladder and it worked great, for me and the young ones. I only was able to see how it would really work by being in the water!
Thank you, I will remember that. I can easily get back into a canoe with no problem. The only big boat I had did have a ladder but it bolted to the top and bottom of the transom. It was easier to use the outdrive and then step on the ladder. Little kids had no problem with the ladder. They used the bow as their diving platform.

If I mount it on the transom 2 of the 3 rungs will be below the water line and one will at or just above the water line. I will also have to build braces to keep the ladder at an angle away from the transom. It is a long ways away and other things will be done first.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Sep 06, 2018 10:08 am
by OrangeQuest
So yesterday I primed the control valve locker with a few coats of Pettit Primer. After a little sanding and cleaning I put on the first coat of the bilge paint. Says I can put on a second in 8 hours. Don't see sticking around that long. Before painting I installed the drain fittings in the wells. The first one, bait well, went right in with a little 4200 as sealer. The second one though put up quiet a struggle till I finally pulled it back out. Couldn't get it to tighten flush. After a little checking, there was a large dried drip of epoxy hanging just out of sight of the opening. Thanks to the mini belt sander I made quick work of getting rid of it. After cleaning the mess up it went right in. 24 hour cure for that too.

I talked bad about the mini band sander but after fixing it to work correctly and a lot of modifications, it has came in very handle at getting into some really tight spaces that I just can't reach other wise. It takes a very gentle touch and steady movements or the belt will come off. Can't use it for more than a few minutes are it starts blowing very hot air but I like it.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Sep 06, 2018 1:45 pm
by Capt UB
OrangeQuest wrote: Thu Sep 06, 2018 9:49 am
Capt UB wrote: Thu Sep 06, 2018 9:01 am OQ,

Don't mount the ladder yet. What till you have been in the water.

I installed a ladder on my 145 Scout CC and found out it was more work to use it were it was then just climbing over the gunwale! I did find another ladder and it worked great, for me and the young ones. I only was able to see how it would really work by being in the water!
Thank you, I will remember that. I can easily get back into a canoe with no problem. The only big boat I had did have a ladder but it bolted to the top and bottom of the transom. It was easier to use the outdrive and then step on the ladder. Little kids had no problem with the ladder. They used the bow as their diving platform.

If I mount it on the transom 2 of the 3 rungs will be below the water line and one will at or just above the water line. I will also have to build braces to keep the ladder at an angle away from the transom. It is a long ways away and other things will be done first.

This is what I ended up buying... and yes $$$.

http://www.garelick.com/Sport-Diver-Ladders

But I still keep around, this stand by cheap ladder...

4-Step Portable Hook-on Boat Boarding Ladder

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Sep 06, 2018 5:02 pm
by OrangeQuest
The hatch frames that were glued in are in need of some sanding. didn't want to stir any dust up so that has to wait. After a little sanding got the first coat of bilge paint on this morning. Almost 8 hours later more light sanding with 220 grit and got another coat on. This being the control valve locker it doesn't need a super smooth finish so you can still see some tape and roughness around the edges. As long as it doesn't snag or collect dirt, doesn't bother me down in here. Once the boat goes into operation it would be off limits to most anyway. Port aft locker, behind the bait well. All the hardware will be mounted in the morning and a tank well testing party at NOON!! :D It will be filled, tested for operation and checked for leaks. If all goes well then test for draining. Then dried and I may glue the wash deck on over the weekend.

3634

Yes I am excited!! There may be a video involved!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Sep 07, 2018 12:06 pm
by OrangeQuest
3635
Everything is back in. The none painted side is the bilge and that stuff will come out for painting.
For the tank well test.
Pushed the boat outside and connected the pump to a cooler via garden hose fitting. Measured the transom at 3",5" and 7" and the boat level. Doubt it will be level but for these tests it was. Then measured from the ground to each mark on transom for distance from ground the 3" water level and so on. Then measured the cooler on a small table and fill the cooler to equal 3" DWL on boat. Nothing at pump. Then at 5"

3636
Can see the water just at the inlet of the pump. Then raised the water to 7" impeller will be under water and will start to pump.
3637

Installed pump and sure enough she is pumping water. Did not fill the tanks as fast as direct fill, it was sucking air from the live well as it was filling so until there was enough water in the well then not suck air it was very slow. It would recirc and fill at the same time. Not as fast as I would like but by the time the pump is primed, take boat to dock, park trailer and come back it should be about done filling both tanks.
3638
This is high speed
3639
slow speed.

When came time to drain I removed the hose and set it at the same height as the intake for the system. Drained all water from the live well and then the bait well. There is no water left in either tank, ZERO! Don't know if an of the hoses have water in them but both tanks are dry. Little disappointed in the V3 valve. The automatic feature didn't seem to work as they said it would but it is in a "lab" and need really world testing.

Moving on to another area.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Sep 07, 2018 1:07 pm
by Jeff
Nice work in a close area OQ!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Sep 07, 2018 3:49 pm
by OrangeQuest
Jeff wrote: Fri Sep 07, 2018 1:07 pm Nice work in a close area OQ!! Jeff
Thanks Jeff! Getting the valves in was the biggest pain. They have to be assembled at the mount with the bolts in. Hope I never need to service them. Nice thing is I can feed one with a lot of flow and air and the other with very little flow and air. I need to do more testing to see what size overflow will work with this system. Once there was enough water in the whole system and all the lines bled of air the flow was better than I expected. It does a great job of recirculating the water but very slow at filling. I have another pump I may add later for a fill/wash down pump.

With the tank wells out of the way I can move on to finish the bilge, aft anchor locker and the electrical locker. Who knows, maybe before winter I will be building the console. 8O

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Sep 08, 2018 10:20 am
by Capt UB
OrangeQuest wrote: Fri Sep 07, 2018 3:49 pm
Jeff wrote: Fri Sep 07, 2018 1:07 pm Nice work in a close area OQ!! Jeff
Thanks Jeff! Getting the valves in was the biggest pain. They have to be assembled at the mount with the bolts in. Hope I never need to service them. Nice thing is I can feed one with a lot of flow and air and the other with very little flow and air. I need to do more testing to see what size overflow will work with this system. Once there was enough water in the whole system and all the lines bled of air the flow was better than I expected. It does a great job of recirculating the water but very slow at filling. I have another pump I may add later for a fill/wash down pump.

With the tank wells out of the way I can move on to finish the bilge, aft anchor locker and the electrical locker. Who knows, maybe before winter I will be building the console. 8O
OQ you should add some LED lights now. In the tanks and where the valves are...

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Sep 08, 2018 12:44 pm
by OrangeQuest
Capt UB wrote: Sat Sep 08, 2018 10:20 am OQ you should add some LED lights now. In the tanks and where the valves are...
They are on this month's budget list!! Along with transom/bow eyes, battery box, the 3 hatches I still need and stern deck cleats. I will install lights in the tank wells but the control valve will be more by feel to adjust them, but if needed I can add it later. I want to finish the back half of the boat so I can glass the outside sides with 3.25oz before this winter. I would like to do a float test before temps drop below 70! 8O

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Sep 08, 2018 4:52 pm
by OrangeQuest
So after a little time this morning getting the venue employees off and running I spent quality time on the bilge! First I covered the opening to the control valve locker so no flying epoxy gets on anything. Below the motor splash well will be accessed via 8" inspection hatch so no major sanding or making things real smooth. Just sanded enough to get rid of rough places, snags and drops of epoxy putty. Inspected all drain tubes, opening and everything is water tight sealed. Made sure the transom drain was flush with the bottom so no water can just sit when plug is removed. I cleaned up inside corners below the splash well cleats to a more consistent radius, people will be able to see them. Used a Suzuki 25-30hp motor mount template with number to measure where to put the bottom of the splash deck. Used the angle of the transom to set the angle of the splash deck. Made the cleats for the splash deck. Used the glue/putty mix to fill in around the transom drain fitting and then glued in the splash well cleats. After putting in make shift clamps to hold the cleats in place I walked away! Closed the warehouse up and went home.

If I stayed I would want to touch something on the boat and wind up with uncured epoxy on me. Tomorrow high chance of rain so may have free time to do more. The cleats where to deep for any of my clamps to reach to get to and the space is very small. I copied someone else on how they held there stuff in place. I will take pictures of it tomorrow. It was to easy of a method not to share. I maybe priming the bilge tomorrow.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Sep 08, 2018 5:27 pm
by Bogieman
8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Sep 08, 2018 5:53 pm
by piperdown
Man, nice work!
That bilge had to have been difficult to work in!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Sep 08, 2018 6:46 pm
by OrangeQuest
Bogieman wrote: Sat Sep 08, 2018 5:27 pm8)
Hey Bogie! Hope you are getting odds and ends done on your build!
piperdown wrote: Sat Sep 08, 2018 5:53 pm Man, nice work!
That bilge had to have been difficult to work in!
It's not so bad... :cry: There is enough width to get my sander down in it and I can adjust the angle of the mini belt sander, that helps a lot. It's like mowing, use the big mower for most everything and come back with the trimmer to clean everything up. I also have been working on the area since I put the frames in, months ago. I am always sanding something somewhere. When I put the mounts in for the well pump and bilge it was already sanded pretty good. A few more holes that needed sealing and sanding, globs of epoxy putty/ glue that may have flown from other areas that I didn't see till I ran my hand over everything. It's small enough that it's easier to find things that need sanding by feel more than sight. In the morning I have one, easy to get to, area that will need attention but with the cleats in it will be ready for primer!

I am trying something with my drain and if it works I will talk about it. If it doesn't work then the forum will never know anything about it. :oops:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Sep 09, 2018 8:26 am
by OrangeQuest
Don't have much time today for boat building but this is what things look like in the mini bilge. First the small boards that are putting enough pressure on the cleats to hold them into place. I used two per side to make it easier to get everything into place and to assure they stay. Like I said, I copied from someone else posting this very easy method.
3645

Deeper down at the bottom of the bilge the blue tinted epoxy, below the darker epoxy, there is my garboard type drain opening. It was packed full of epoxy glue and is now cured. See the brass in the below picture, the drain has been installed. Still needs detailing but as you can see it is sealed up on this side.

3644


And here is what it looks like on the outside. It is almost a level drain when the boat sets level but it angles down when the boat is raised a little and water runs to the back of the transom. I was hoping to knock the drain back out but the screws are embedded and glued in as well so I sanded the surface down. The transom will be getting a layer of glass still before painting and I am looking for a flush plug that will look better than what it can with.

3646
I am sure there are a lot of reasons this was a bad idea I just don't know what they are. :doh:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Sep 09, 2018 9:52 am
by Eric1
Keep building! 8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Sep 10, 2018 5:10 pm
by OrangeQuest
So I stay home on my day off due to bands of storms coming in off the coast. Gives me lots of time to think about things that are needed on the build. While on FB a builder posted pictures of his beautifully finished FS14 and one of the features he built into the floor was a teak grate in the back and front of his cockpit floor. As I have been saying I want big drains for any water coming into the cockpit. Water coming over the sides of the boat means thing are getting rough and that water needs to get down into the bilge where it can get pumped back out and not slosh back and forth in the cockpit.
His grates would work very well at that task. Only thing I don't like is big openings that small bait, leaves and crap can get past. I can attach a sheet of perforated sheet of stainless steel on the bottom to trap all the crap that will plug up the bilge pump screen. And a big grate will stop a lot of crap before getting restricted. He made them removeable so easy to pop out and clean! Big opening to the bilge will also make servicing the pump a lot easier.
3650
Simple series of cross lap joints evenly spaced and all the boards could be cut at same time. Would be easier if I had a table saw but will do with what I do have, a router and circular saw. WTH!! :doh:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Sep 10, 2018 5:40 pm
by piperdown
Looks nice but labor intensive. How thick is that teak?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Sep 10, 2018 7:26 pm
by Capt UB
OrangeQuest wrote: Mon Sep 10, 2018 5:10 pm So I stay home on my day off due to bands of storms coming in off the coast. Gives me lots of time to think about things that are needed on the build. While on FB a builder posted pictures of his beautifully finished FS14 and one of the features he built into the floor was a teak grate in the back and front of his cockpit floor. As I have been saying I want big drains for any water coming into the cockpit. Water coming over the sides of the boat means thing are getting rough and that water needs to get down into the bilge where it can get pumped back out and not slosh back and forth in the cockpit.
His grates would work very well at that task. Only thing I don't like is big openings that small bait, leaves and crap can get past. I can attach a sheet of perforated sheet of stainless steel on the bottom to trap all the crap that will plug up the bilge pump screen. And a big grate will stop a lot of crap before getting restricted. He made them removeable so easy to pop out and clean! Big opening to the bilge will also make servicing the pump a lot easier.
3650
Simple series of cross lap joints evenly spaced and all the boards could be cut at same time. Would be easier if I had a table saw but will do with what I do have, a router and circular saw. WTH!! :doh:
OQ, can't find my old book, this book has (?) a chapter on making (very easy) these teak gratings...
514QyxkS SL._AC_SY400_.jpg
514QyxkS SL._AC_SY400_.jpg (22.25 KiB) Viewed 2641 times

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Sep 10, 2018 8:01 pm
by OrangeQuest
piperdown wrote: Mon Sep 10, 2018 5:40 pm Looks nice but labor intensive. How thick is that teak?
I still have to find the wood! But I think it will be around 1/2". I can add braces under it to help support it. The stringers are 20" apart so that is one dimension, but the other is yet to be determined. If I go this way it will be flush to the deck so no stumbling over it. It is not as labor intensive as you think. Hardest two parts will be building fences with tongues that fit in the cuts. One fence for the saw and one for the router. Depth will be half the thickness of the boards. The tongue of the fence will fit in the last cut and set the width of the next cut. It will be easier if they are only 1/2" square then I can cut the groove with one pass of the router after making a cut with the circular saw. The saw cut will keep the router from tear outs. I would guess once all adjustments are made it won't take to long to make all the cuts. If I start with wide boards once all the grooves are cut I then cut the boards to width and length. A table saw with a dado blade and then a thin kerf blade would be very fast, easy and a lot less set up. I may wait till that can be fit into the budget.

I will practice on cheap pine so I can get everything set up and then use the more expensive stuff! It will be one more thing that makes it different.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Sep 10, 2018 8:30 pm
by piperdown
OrangeQuest wrote: Mon Sep 10, 2018 8:01 pm
piperdown wrote: Mon Sep 10, 2018 5:40 pm Looks nice but labor intensive. How thick is that teak?
I still have to find the wood! But I think it will be around 1/2". I can add braces under it to help support it. The stringers are 20" apart so that is one dimension, but the other is yet to be determined. If I go this way it will be flush to the deck so no stumbling over it. It is not as labor intensive as you think. Hardest two parts will be building fences with tongues that fit in the cuts. One fence for the saw and one for the router. Depth will be half the thickness of the boards. The tongue of the fence will fit in the last cut and set the width of the next cut. It will be easier if they are only 1/2" square then I can cut the groove with one pass of the router after making a cut with the circular saw. The saw cut will keep the router from tear outs. I would guess once all adjustments are made it won't take to long to make all the cuts. If I start with wide boards once all the grooves are cut I then cut the boards to width and length. A table saw with a dado blade and then a thin kerf blade would be very fast, easy and a lot less set up. I may wait till that can be fit into the budget.

I will practice on cheap pine so I can get everything set up and then use the more expensive stuff! It will be one more thing that makes it different.
So something like this cut down? https://www.woodcraft.com/products/teak ... 4-x-3-x-36

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Sep 10, 2018 9:36 pm
by OrangeQuest
piperdown wrote: Mon Sep 10, 2018 8:30 pm
So something like this cut down? https://www.woodcraft.com/products/teak ... 4-x-3-x-36
Yes but not from Woodcraft. Get like 3 of those and clamp them together on a table and do cross cuts and then cut them length wise.
8O 8O When I turned pens I would buy some wood from Woodcraft but mostly just pen blanks, mandrels and lathe tools from them because they are so proud of their woods I can't afford their prices! There is a Mom and Pop place within half mile of my shop that I buy exotic lumber from. They have been in business since 1946. Been owned by the Clark family since 1968. Prices are really good on woods you can't get at HD or Lowes.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Sep 10, 2018 10:10 pm
by piperdown
OrangeQuest wrote: Mon Sep 10, 2018 9:36 pm
piperdown wrote: Mon Sep 10, 2018 8:30 pm
So something like this cut down? https://www.woodcraft.com/products/teak ... 4-x-3-x-36
Yes but not from Woodcraft. Get like 3 of those and clamp them together on a table and do cross cuts and then cut them length wise.
8O 8O When I turned pens I would buy some wood from Woodcraft but mostly just pen blanks, mandrels and lathe tools from them because they are so proud of their woods I can't afford their prices! There is a Mom and Pop place within half mile of my shop that I buy exotic lumber from. They have been in business since 1946. Been owned by the Clark family since 1968. Prices are really good on woods you can't get at HD or Lowes.

I haven't really looked anywhere here in KC for exotic besides woodcraft. Picked up spanish cedar from them until I found a person on ebay selling some.
Anyway, sorry for the build derail! If you make those they will look sweet and be functional!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Sep 11, 2018 8:28 am
by OrangeQuest
No problem Piperdown, the grate is part of the build.

Reason I say 1/2" thick boards is less material needs to be removed but may need to use a more common size board (3/4") to save a few bucks.

More details on my thinking to make the cuts: Boards would first be cut longer than needed so there is room to clap all the boards down to the table and keep then from moving. Easiest way would be two cheaper boards screwed to the table and the boards to be cross cut sandwiched in between. I would then use a straight edge guide to make the first cross cut with the circular saw half the thickness of the boards. I have a piece of 3/4" angle iron that I can use as a straight edge. Attach a piece of 1/4" plywood on the inside angle for a spacer. The angle iron sets down in the first cut moving the saw over 3/4", make my next cut. I keep doing this till all the boards are cross cut. Then, for me, I would run 3/4" tape across every other "block" so those don't get cut away. Those first cross cuts will keep the router from splintering the wood and make it faster to clear out the wood I don't need. Once I am done with the router I take the boards over to the band saw and rip 3/4" X 3/4" boards out of them. The hardest part will be free hand the rip cuts due to the fact band saws don't like fences. I would have to put lines on the boards to follow. Then sandwich all the boards again and sand the band saw cut marks off. Test fit and then cut to the correct length. Because of the sanding the boards should fit loosely together making easy assembly and can use epoxy to glue. Things are always easier when they are only on paper! :D

If I like it I may make enough to put two smaller ones forward on each side of the console.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Sep 12, 2018 12:38 pm
by OrangeQuest
Ok. Today I finished cleaning up the bilge and it is now on it's second coat of primer. It will dry over night and I will paint in the morning.

3653
Working on a motor well deck.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Sep 12, 2018 6:26 pm
by OrangeQuest
While waiting for the primer to dry. Cut a template of the motor well deck with inspection hatch.
Will cut this from 9mm marine ply scrap.
3655
Bilge will get a little sanding and then bilge paint in the bilge.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Sep 13, 2018 8:51 am
by OrangeQuest
To get two coats on in the same day I started prep as soon as I could get here. Very light sanding, clean and then paint. Remember this is a bilge which looking pretty is not the objective but to just get it all looking the same color. Finished the first coat and walked away. After cleaning up the tools and everything I went over to give a quick look at my paint job. As I leaned over the transom to look down I hit a thread of spider web! 8O Sure enough, there she was walking gently over the fresh paint. WTH!! :cry: If I left her there she would die, was my first thought, so I grab a small board and tried to get her on the thing. First try she jumped right on but just as we cleaned the boat she jumped off and back down into the bilge!! Dang you spider. :? So I took her picture and tried again. This time when she jumped she used a safety line and I was able to get her away from the boat.
3664

maybe I should put a screen over it!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Sep 13, 2018 1:03 pm
by Capt UB
OQ check these out on Amazon,

by Eventronic
Solder Seal Wire Connector, Eventronic Heat Shrink Butt Terminals Electrical Insulated Marine Waterproof Automotive Copper Connectors with Case
71WkmXViZlL._SL1000_.jpg
61Op4lDp1EL._SL1000_.jpg
51jEU9IqT-L._SL1000_.jpg

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Sep 13, 2018 1:13 pm
by OrangeQuest
I like the idea but it would be a pain to get wire to overlap like that, hold it long enough then to heat it and melt everything. Maybe if I had a little jig with the alligator clips that would hold everything. I try to avoid using butt connectors. All my stuff will use 2 or 3 pin connectors. Something fails be just a simple unplug and then plug in the new one.

When I do use them it will be the kind like you got at HF where you crimp one, then the other and heat. Can do a bunch at one time then come back and heat them with the heat gun. 8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Sep 13, 2018 1:25 pm
by Jaysen
These don't look like crimps but solder connections. For some reason I thought that was a no-no for marine applications. Had something to do with vibrations. Just like with automobiles. I could be wrong though...

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Sep 13, 2018 1:25 pm
by joe2700
Capt UB wrote: Thu Sep 13, 2018 1:03 pm OQ check these out on Amazon,

by Eventronic
Solder Seal Wire Connector, Eventronic Heat Shrink Butt Terminals Electrical Insulated Marine Waterproof Automotive Copper Connectors with Case
I wouldn't use those solder connectors on a boat. Solder gets brittle over time with the flexing and vibration inherent in a boat. Not only can the connection itself fail, but solder wicking up the wire can make the wire next to the joint brittle and prone to failure. Using these wouldn't meet ABYC standards:
11.14.5.7 Solder shall not be the sole means of mechanical connection in any circuit. If soldered, the connection shall be so located or supported as to minimize flexing of the conductor where the solder changes the flexible conductor into a solid conductor.
I'd get the crimp connectors with the sealant and heat shrink instead, for a stronger more durable connection that is also ABYC compliant if you happen to care. These ancor ones are the gold standard but there are plenty of knockoffs on amazon that have worked fine for me.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Sep 13, 2018 3:45 pm
by txjm
Those solder/heatshrink connections are actually a lot nicer than the crimp and heatshrink. If you use the correct size, the wires aren’t hard to overlap properly. I was given a sample pack 20 years ago and used them to rig my current skiff. Last summer I repowered and replaced all of the electrical. Those splices were still perfect. I also used them on trailer lights. I know it doesn’t say much but the lights died before theses connections. The ones that I have used were great.
Chip

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Sep 13, 2018 5:27 pm
by OrangeQuest
Like I said, I prefer to avoid using butt connectors. My idea is to run all my wires both duplex and triplex full runs from point "A" to point "B" without any breaks. The terminals will use eyelets and at the load will use 2 or 3 pin connectors with gold plating. The connectors will have silver solder joints, painted with liquid tape and then the hard shell snapped into place. then space between the hard shell and wire gets filled with 4200. Finished with a dab of silicone grease on the pins. I have found this holds up well inside the hull of a sit on top kayak used a number of times beyond the breakers fishing. Nothing on/in the boat comes back without being soaked. I will be taking all my switches apart and giving them the same silicone grease.

It may take a little more time and effort now but it pays off years from now and still using all the same switches, lights and the wiring still has no patches in it.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Sep 13, 2018 6:34 pm
by OrangeQuest
Oh, I also picked up a couple of LED live well lights. May have to put one in the bait and two in the live well.

After chasing all the spiders away I was able to get one more coat of paint on in the bilge. will give it about a week to cure and check if I like it. Mean while, moving to the next locker along the transom, the aft anchor locker. It just needs a lot of rough sanding. As you can see nothing fancy, a folding anchor in a 3" pipe.
3586
I was thinking because the fuel line and bilge wiring goes through here, just some wire wrap secured to the frame to keep the line from snagging anything.
3665

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Sep 15, 2018 11:33 am
by Bogieman
8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Sep 15, 2018 10:09 pm
by OrangeQuest
Nice to see you on the forum Bogie!

I am trying to decide on how to protect the fuel line and wiring that has to go into the anchor locker to get to the bilge and to the motor well. The anchor will bring all kinds of mud into the locker which could hit the wiring or fuel line if left uncovered. Thinking a short wall that then angles towards the top and then a 6" access to service the two lines. Here is a mock up.
3666

Pour about 6" of foam around the anchor tube with a screened limber hole to drain through the area and into the bilge.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Sep 16, 2018 2:38 pm
by OrangeQuest
Putting the anchor locker on hold long enough to sort things out with it. Mean while, I cut the motor well opening and is ready for glass. The holes to attach the access hatch are also ready to be filled. But don't really feel like jacking with epoxy today so I fitted all the hoses and pumps for the tank wells. I installed the bilge pump, hose for both bilge pumps and glued in the live well power nozzle. The bilge drain hoses and fittings are not ready to be mounted but I was bored and decided to hook everything up.
3678
3677
3676
Thought things were a little tight when nothing was in there, things got a lot smaller real fast! But This is everything and most of it is hoses. Wiring still needs to be routed and connectors attached, the two air hoses need to be routed to the outside and above the tank wells water line, V3 valve control cable still needs to be routed correctly but that can't be done till the cockpit is painted.
I don't know how I missed it but the valve handles are turned so flow and drain are on the same well. Would of liked both being turned the same direction but it is what it is. :?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Sep 16, 2018 3:43 pm
by Eric1
That all looks neat. A lot of stuff in that space. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Sep 16, 2018 5:48 pm
by TomW1
OQ no fuel hose and electrical wiring in the same compartment. You will fail an inspection if you do have them so. Be safe. :D

Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Sep 16, 2018 8:32 pm
by joe2700
TomW1 wrote: Sun Sep 16, 2018 5:48 pm OQ no fuel hose and electrical wiring in the same compartment. You will fail an inspection if you do have them so. Be safe. :D

Tom
Can fuel hose pass though a compartment with wiring as long as there are no connections, or not all?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Sep 16, 2018 9:31 pm
by OrangeQuest
TomW1 wrote: Sun Sep 16, 2018 5:48 pm OQ no fuel hose and electrical wiring in the same compartment. You will fail an inspection if you do have them so. Be safe. :D

Tom
I have ran into another problem, the fuel line needs to exit above the bottom of the motor well and the way I was planning it would not. I am reconsidering my options.

Tom could you post something that states that? I looked in my builders hand book published by the USCG under electrical and fuel systems and can't find it.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Sep 17, 2018 12:05 am
by TomW1
OQ I will try to find it for you. I used to have all these regs on an older computer, but it went kapow and this one would not take my backups. I finally found it. It is in the ABYC regulations section CFR 183.410 If an electrical component is in the engine room, fuel tank space, or space where there are fuel lines, then the electrical component must be ignition protected. What does ignition protected mean? It means that a spark from the device will not ignite a fuel/air mixture in the same space. In simpler words, it won't cause an explosion.


Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Sep 17, 2018 6:43 am
by OrangeQuest
Ok, Thank You Tom, I read that one and was thinking by components they were talking about switches, electric motors and other things that could cause spark. Which all my stuff does pass as being ignition protected. Also this area will be a straight run and uninterrupted which my handbook does say that is acceptable. But again Thank You for keeping an eye out for me.

I also went a size bigger on my wiring to my pumps so no chance of current causing the wiring to get hot and I want maximum current delivered to the pump with less voltage drop due to the length of the wire, which is less than 10 feet. I am trying to keep things very safe and foresee any possible area of concern. That is why I was wanting to put a wall between the fuel line and wiring, away from the anchor hitting either. It is on hold for now while I consider my options. I knew this area was going to be tricky. Just have to step back and find the best solution to route both the wiring and the fuel line.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Sep 19, 2018 7:03 pm
by OrangeQuest
So it was a long two days off! Had to do work stuff so not a lot on the boat build. Sunday after I got everything in the plumbing hooked up I noticed I got the selector label wrong. So I peeled the old one off, my assistant printed me a new one and I glued it back on and covered with epoxy.
3689
This is without epoxy and the forum will not let me add the other two, just come up black.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Sep 20, 2018 6:44 am
by OrangeQuest
So the young lady that keeps track of things I need to do told me yesterday I have to be on stand by this weekend just in case someone doesn't show up. If all goes well it will give me the whole weekend to work on my build! That means I need to start planning for it! I ordered my bow and transom eyes this morning along with the 3 remaining hatches. Also stopped into Academy last night and picked up a battery box for a type 24 battery.

May try to lower and align the bunks on the trailer a little better so they are under the stringers. Need to start getting inside the hull to better get to things. Also want to add center rollers in two places to add support and guide the boat on the trailer better.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Sep 20, 2018 12:16 pm
by Bogieman
OrangeQuest wrote: Thu Sep 20, 2018 6:44 am So the young lady that keeps track of things I need to do told me yesterday I have to be on stand by this weekend just in case someone doesn't show up. If all goes well it will give me the whole weekend to work on my build! That means I need to start planning for it! I ordered my bow and transom eyes this morning along with the 3 remaining hatches. Also stopped into Academy last night and picked up a battery box for a type 24 battery.

May try to lower and align the bunks on the trailer a little better so they are under the stringers. Need to start getting inside the hull to better get to things. Also want to add center rollers in two places to add support and guide the boat on the trailer better.
Very nice work and planning, OQ.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Sep 20, 2018 5:24 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thanks Bogie, hope your boat has dried out and you will be ready to get going back on it soon.

The battery box does not work in the space provided so back to Academy for a tray for the 24 series. I will be building a tray for the tray due to the angle of the hull. Also will be installing a battery disconnect switch with a resettable breaker. Still working on relabeling the selector knob for the V3 valve. That should be finished by Saturday. Jack the boat up off the trailer enough to adjust the bunks a little off center of the stringers. The trailer already has a roll under the forward middle so just need to add the roll that helps keep the bow from hitting the center of the trailer and helps guide it on. Was able to lay boards across the stringers and walk on it, that's a good feeling!

Once I am done with the stern of the boat I think I am flipping it and start prepping the hull for paint. I want to try to smooth the bottom a little more and add another layer or two of graphite and then glass the sides with the 3.25oz stuff. Followed with fairing then paint! I need to seal the outside so I can get it in water to find center of gravity with motor, water and gear. I will then know where to put the console. I am really liking the idea of a foredeck flush with the gunnel. I think it would be easier for sight casting and throwing a cast net. Still playing with the idea.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Sep 20, 2018 5:28 pm
by OrangeQuest
Like this but with a center console coming off the back.
3701
May even add the spray rails.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Sep 21, 2018 7:43 am
by Jeff
That is a beauty OQ!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Sep 21, 2018 4:53 pm
by OrangeQuest
It is a beauty for sure. It is the "Little Moby" from another designer and it is wood frame. Same size as the FS14. I like the way this one is trimmed and the deck on the bow. I was thinking also a Samson post as close as I could get it to the front. It would help protect the nav light assembly but may get in the way more than help. I could see a case net getting snagged on it. It is still up for debate till the wood starts to get glued in. It is something I have been thinking about since I bought the plans for the FS14. You can see in this picture from the drafting in the parking lot the front deck was the very first thing!
3702

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Sep 21, 2018 7:59 pm
by TomW1
OQ I would also move that cleat as far forward as you can. You don't want your cast nets catching on it positioned where it is.

Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Sep 21, 2018 8:30 pm
by OrangeQuest
TomW1 wrote: Fri Sep 21, 2018 7:59 pm OQ I would also move that cleat as far forward as you can. You don't want your cast nets catching on it positioned where it is.

Tom
Oh no Tom, that's not my boat! But I agree I don't like that cleat at all. I was thinking a Samson post just behind the nav light housing. Then a pair of chocks on the sides. Thinking pop up cleats at the transom. But I did order bow and stern eyes this month.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Sep 22, 2018 5:36 pm
by OrangeQuest
I stumbled across this bow on Facebook. I know it is a model but I like the way the bow blends into the gunnel and that small edge close to the side.
3704

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Sep 22, 2018 7:32 pm
by TomW1
OQ you can do that with any of Jacques boats just keep the frames at least 3" wide to the top of the sheer. I like the side decks wide enough to walk around the boat when I am fighting a fish. On a small boat they of course look better smaller.

Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Oct 20, 2018 10:27 pm
by OrangeQuest
Some how I started posting my comments and progress in the questions section :oops: Sorry, I seem to always do things backwards!

Only had a few hours to work on the boat this morning before I had to leave for a venue, that I then canceled due to bad weather. So put in a few more hours on the boat. I poured a little expanding foam in the bottom of the anchor tube to fill the area and seal up the drain tube I installed.
3941

Then I had to come up with a way to sand it down to the drain hole. The tube is 3" and I have a piece of 2" with a cap. My biggest drum sander fits, with a piece of sandpaper wrapped around it, inside the 2" pipe. The pipe is long enough to fit into the 3" pipe all the way to the bottom. I used 5 minute epoxy to glue art sand to the bottom of the cap.
3942
Don't laugh, it worked. Had to stop a lot and vacuum out the dust, but worked. 8) Using the mini belt sander I cleaned a few things up in the area and coated everything with thickened epoxy. Will see tomorrow if it is ready for light sanding and primer.

I still need to go by the lumber yard and see what kind of wood I can afford to make a grate out of. I really like the rosewoods for the color of the grain and strength but they are also very expensive. If I can get a few 4'X6"X1" boards then I will give it a shot.

Where can I get one of these in all the same metal or plastic? This one is Aluminum and SS screws. It will be for my aft anchor rode.
3936
My folding cleat came in after I left work yesterday and don't really like it for the aft anchor tie off. It will be mounted along the gunnel for use when tying off to a dock or something.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Oct 21, 2018 8:33 am
by Capt UB
OQ,


Some how I started posting my comments and progress in the questions section Sorry, I seem to always do things backwards!



You are not the only one there! :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Oct 21, 2018 10:53 am
by OrangeQuest
So this morning the epoxy I applied just before leaving cured and I sanded any rough places. I used 5200 and sealed/glued around the chase tube and though fitting for my bilge chase tube and then installed the junction boxes. I left the screws in them but loose so I could easily get them out and replace with the SS square drive screws coming in Monday. I then glued the small frame to protect it from anchor operations. light sanding and the area is ready for primer.
3943

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Oct 23, 2018 6:09 pm
by OrangeQuest
Houston has been below 60°all day, we are in deep freeze! :cry: I already have cabin fever! It is very hard to function at these temperatures and can not bare going outside. I may have to put long pants on and long sleeve shirt. :?
3951
Oh never mind, it's 60.6°. That was scary! 8O

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Oct 24, 2018 8:19 am
by OrangeQuest
About 4 months ago I was asked to join a group of customers from Home Depot to review stuff their suppliers would like to be tested and then reviewed. It is very simple, they send out an email to a link, you then pick out stuff you want to use and the suppliers then mail you the stuff free of charge. Some of the stuff I have ordered have not been put into use the way the suppliers intended it to be used but if they sell more of them then they are happy! Like the fan I use to pull paint fumes, sanding dust and every thing else away from the hull is called a "green house ventilation fan".

Anyway this last go around I picked out a 40" linear shower drain in 304 brushed stainless. If anyone has been following my build then a 2" drain could be less than desirable but it does cover 40" X 3" of area that then drops into the drain tray before going into the 2" drain opening. That is still more than a 900gph pump can pump out so that should work correct?

I understand that 304 SS is not going to hold up to a marine environment but I plan on painting it the same as the sole. It also has a hair trap basket that is removeable, that is a plus for some days of who knows what will come up in the cast net. If I use it I will neat epoxy the underside of everything and then epoxy glue it into the stringers. Would still nee to use the inspection hatch to service the pump and bilge but it saves the cost and labor of a wood grate and that is a plus! :D

A few of the Few other goodies that came in is all the SS# 6 and #8 screws for all the plastic hatches. And the bow chocks (fairleads).

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Oct 24, 2018 10:58 am
by Bogieman
OrangeQuest wrote: Tue Oct 23, 2018 6:09 pm Houston has been below 60°all day, we are in deep freeze! :cry: I already have cabin fever! It is very hard to function at these temperatures and can not bare going outside. I may have to put long pants on and long sleeve shirt. :?
3951
Oh never mind, it's 60.6°. That was scary! 8O
:lol: It's getting chilly here too.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Oct 25, 2018 9:56 pm
by OrangeQuest
So the temperatures are starting to climb a little, I think it reached mid 70s, but I finished doing some prep work and finally painted the anchor locker. I thought the square drive screw would make it easier to install the covers on the junction boxes but they are still a little difficult to tighten so still looking for a better way. May just have to make a special bit that will stay on a wrench better but I will get there. Also painted all the frames today. Checked to see what it would take to mount the 40" drain.
3952
It's the shiny thing at the base of the frame. May have to beef up my stringers in that area some how if I decide to use it. Would need to cut 1/2" notches in both stringers to get it down flush to the sole. Already down to the minimum safe height. Maybe butt blocks on each of them?

Ordered the cam cleat and then a few of the chip 4 lights Silentneko was talking about. Have a pair of white and a pair of blue coming for the tank wells.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Oct 26, 2018 7:51 am
by Jeff
Good progress OQ!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Oct 26, 2018 8:19 am
by glossieblack
OQ, I'm really enjoying your bespoke approach. 8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Oct 26, 2018 10:54 am
by piperdown
Is that fancy shower drain for draining water on the sole? :doh:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Oct 26, 2018 1:03 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thanks Jeff and GB. I am bespoken the heck out of this build but that is why we build instead of buy so it is our own. :lol:

Piperdown my boat will have two bilge pumps. The primary will be under the sole for most the water that gets into the boat will be collected there and then a 900 gph pump that has a few features on it to make sure the water gets off the boat. For when the boat is moored or if the primary fails or gets over whelmed there is the aux pump (500gph) in the little tiny bilge at the transom. There is a small limber hole with a chase tube that allows any water that remains under the sole to go to the small bilge at the stern or it can continue and drain from the garboard plug when on the trailer. If the primary fills faster than the main pump can handle there is an over flow to the aux. The primary bilge will be the only area under the sole that is not going to be foamed.
3954

There will be an 8" inspection hatch over the pump. The small pump will be the only one wired directly to the battery but they both have float switches. The oversize drain is so any water will easy be removed from the cockpit and not have much chance to sloosh around. If the bow pitches down before all the water is removed from the sole then there will also be forward drains.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Oct 26, 2018 4:44 pm
by Aripeka Angler
Nice work! I like the planning, that usually yields “ I love it when a plan comes together”. 8)
Send us some of the chilly weather, it’s been a long hot summer...

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Oct 26, 2018 7:27 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thank Richard!

You guys have also had a pretty stormy fall so far. The temp here is all over the place. 55 this morning and the weekend highs will be low 80s but sunny! Bayou clean up Saturday and a big tour Sunday! Will be a busy weekend outside!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Oct 27, 2018 8:06 am
by OrangeQuest
I would like to say that this is my first build this big, most boats have been R/C boats from kits of one type or another. If you see something or read something about my build then please ask. If nothing else it makes me think about what I am doing and I am in no hurry to complete the boat. With it being epoxy and wood it can be cut out/off and re-done. You guys that ask questions help keep me on the right track and may help guide someone else also. It is also easier now to correct things than to wait till painting is done.

Like last night in Academy had their 48" 360° lights on sell for less than $7 so I picked one up. I have had the flush mount for more than 6 months but now that I have the light I realized I don't have a location for the mount. Little detail that when I am taking up every square inch of space for gear so the cockpit stays as big as possible it was a big over sight on my part, "it's just a thang". Some of you may wonder why 48" pole, it can be taken apart and cut to the correct length. If I don't use it on my build then it's what we use on the canoe.


OQ

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Oct 28, 2018 8:24 am
by OrangeQuest
With it being a slow weekend on the forum I will post pictures of me playing with my latest toys! First the way I picture using the Samson Post and chokes. May add a SS bar forward and between them to keep things from snagging on them and the bow light.
3956
Then a picture of the cam cleat and it's role as an anchor rode tie off point. I still need to get a straight choke/fairlead to keep the line from chafing on the transom and to keep a straight pull on the cleat but this gives you an idea on how I will use it. You sailors that have used them know how easy line goes in and out of them and how well they hold. Biggest bolt that will go through is a #8-32 which should be more than enough to hold my folding anchor. The bolts will go through the deck and cleat under it and with this little cam cleat rated at only 150 pounds it all should work perfectly together.
3955

Now I need to get ready for a big tour with temps reaching a high of low 80s and another cloudless sky should be fun!

OQ

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Oct 28, 2018 8:33 am
by Bogieman
Looking really good, OQ! Have fun on your tour.

Bogie

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Oct 28, 2018 9:23 am
by Jaysen
Looks great!

The positioning of the fairlead (you really want one) on the cam is a bit important.
1. It needs to be far enough away to allow easy lifting of the line (or rode) out of the cleat
2. It needs to be the right position in front of cleat to
2.a ensure it's dead inline with the cam point
2.b prevent junk from getting between the lead and the cam (lifting the line out of the cleat)

It may be a bit less picky with your application, but with lil bit and other sail dinghies a very small misplacement can be very detrimental to satisfaction.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Oct 29, 2018 8:23 pm
by OrangeQuest
Jaysen after reading your post I check the angles on the load side and it seems the little cleat holds very well but I agree that the fairlead needs to be carefully placed to keep the load side inline as close as possible. I would think the slack side would just need to be pulled upward to release like the clam cleats I already use on my personal kayaks. The slack side will stow in the hatch so less chance of being hit.

Perko is the only company that sells a 4" (smallest I can find) straight fairlead but it is chrome plated zinc. Sea Dog makes 5" in 316 stainless but would that be to wide? I am guessing the full length of the fairlead is 5" but the fairlead working area is smaller. Will need to wait till I need something else to split the cost of shipping and play the touch it to look at it matched to the cleat. Simple sure is complex when trying to keep it simple. :wink:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Oct 30, 2018 12:19 am
by TomW1
OQ I would get rid of the Samson Post and put a 6" Cleat in the center of the deck so you could handle lines from either side of the deck. I hate anything sticking up that high on a boat and on a 14' boat in particular it is totally out of proportion.

Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Oct 30, 2018 6:06 am
by Capt UB
TomW1 wrote: Tue Oct 30, 2018 12:19 am OQ I would get rid of the Samson Post and put a 6" Cleat in the center of the deck so you could handle lines from either side of the deck. I hate anything sticking up that high on a boat and on a 14' boat in particular it is totally out of proportion.

Tom
Tom is right.... That Samson Post is a bit big!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Oct 30, 2018 6:17 am
by Jaysen
OQ look in the other thread.

Typically you’d use a bullseye fairlead. Normal kind wont work for you. I posted a link to a snap type. I think that will be you silver bullet for this situation.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Oct 30, 2018 7:33 am
by txjm
Capt UB wrote: Tue Oct 30, 2018 6:06 am
TomW1 wrote: Tue Oct 30, 2018 12:19 am OQ I would get rid of the Samson Post and put a 6" Cleat in the center of the deck so you could handle lines from either side of the deck. I hate anything sticking up that high on a boat and on a 14' boat in particular it is totally out of proportion.

Tom
Tom is right.... That Samson Post is a bit big!
I don't know. If OQ thinks it is cool, go for it. It is one of those things. I have really been looking for a way to use a belaying pin on my gf16. I guess too many pirate movies.
Chip

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Oct 30, 2018 9:22 am
by OrangeQuest
Capt UB wrote: Tue Oct 30, 2018 6:06 am
TomW1 wrote: Tue Oct 30, 2018 12:19 am OQ I would get rid of the Samson Post and put a 6" Cleat in the center of the deck so you could handle lines from either side of the deck. I hate anything sticking up that high on a boat and on a 14' boat in particular it is totally out of proportion.

Tom
Tom is right.... That Samson Post is a bit big!
When I opened the box the post came in I though it was to small for what I wanted it for. And one of the places I was going to put it is closer to the forward edge of the bow. You also don't see to many skiffs with a console forward of midship but... If I leave it where it is at in the picture it will be very close to the console that will be butted up to the foredeck keeping the center part of the deck clear. But in my mind being so far back will limit the usefulness of the post.
3978
Please explain how a 6" cleat can be used for multi-lines from different directions or untie a hitch knot under heavy load? And Bob there is nothing wrong with a big bit 8) but the post is only 2" diameter and 5" tall but has a 4.5" mounting surface that can use up to a 5/16" bolt X 4. Heavy pulls will be spread over a larger area and keep in mind that this little boat will also be a work boat.
With our canoe I have almost pulled the bow eye out trying to use the weight of the boat. Using a 3 anchor point block and tackle set up to move a large tree off the paddling trail. We got it by using a lot of slack and reversing as fast as possible, what fun that was!
Jaysen wrote: Tue Oct 30, 2018 6:17 am OQ look in the other thread.

Typically you’d use a bullseye fairlead. Normal kind wont work for you. I posted a link to a snap type. I think that will be you silver bullet for this situation.
Thank You Jaysen, I read the post while I really like the prices I am not a big fan of nylon cleats or fairleads when line may travel through them at any kind of speed and the heat that the line can generate. One of the reasons I don't use braided line when fishing for large fish from a kayak. The line can cut into the boat in short order. I was thinking something like a bullseye fairlead and then cut the top out and smooth out the edges. But seen what Joe2700 posted and that looks like it will work . And it's stainless!

Thank you everyone for the input, even the negative, and helping me "spitball" these two areas. Even though I am not ready to install any of this stuff I need to start planning for reinforcement of some of the areas. Very slowly working my way to the bow!!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Oct 30, 2018 9:34 am
by Capt UB
OQ,

It's larger then the one I had on my 28 ft. sailboat, that was used to hold the boat in storms with chain and 100 lbs. anchor.

Go with the Brass one, much prettier.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Oct 31, 2018 4:29 pm
by OrangeQuest
Ok, since I didn't get much love from my first post position what about closer to the bow? Then I can use a standard Nav light assembly and it would protect it.
3983
This is where I was really thinking about putting it but Till I get my mock up of the console going it will be hard to say which one I like better.
Still playing with ideas. Working more towards the aft section...STILL!
So here is another idea I have been playing with. The last locker that was going to be for the battery has been changed to a cooler locker.
It has a smaller hatch but I need access to the chase tubes that are in the area. Two tubes, one junction block.
3980
Cut Styrofoam to fit over the access junction that I can pull out if needed. Then foam the bottom and other 3 sides. I have started to build a sleeve that will be attached to the hatch frame that will be the cooler sleeve.
3982
The idea is that the frame will be sealed with rubber gasket cut to fit. Then attached with SS #8 screws like all the other hatches so it looks the same. If at some point I need to access the junction box then I remove the hatch/sleeve assembly and then pop the Styrofoam out for easy access. One of the chase tubes is a spare.
3981
Corrugated plastic sheet that was scored so it would fold. Took two sheets to complete. Will take back apart and rough sand flat. then lay glass over the inside and wet out. While it is starting to get hard (that point where you can trim the edges with razor knife). I will fold it all back together and add the second layer of glass, that will extend to attach it to the lip of the hatch frame. Once cured I will single layer glass on the outside also extending to the outer edge of the hatch frame. FYI Hold 12oz cans with lots of ice.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Oct 31, 2018 4:38 pm
by Jeff
Good stuff OQ!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Oct 31, 2018 11:36 pm
by Fuzz
I kind of like the samson post, maybe not as far aft as you first had it but close. You do not want it too far forward or it will get in the anchors way.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Nov 01, 2018 9:36 am
by OrangeQuest
Thanks Jeff! :)

Thanks for the insight Fuzz, and I agree with both parts of your statement. Just need to get the template for the console built so it would give a better picture. The foredeck will be used for work mode and pleasure mode so would like a very clear area. And as Tom pointed out thing could get snagged on it if in the wrong place. On to the project at hand!

After wet vacuuming the office of a few puddles from the 4+ inches of rain and the temperatures plunging to the low 60s and high 50s this morning, I pulled the tape off the cooler sleeve and rough sanded. Laid 3.25oz over the top of it.
3984
Mixed a little fast cure in with a little resin and applied it with a 3" roller.
3985
Now just watching it cure!


And still watchin! :?

Will trim then fold to shape when just touchable! Which if this was our normal temps I could be doing already!! :?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Nov 01, 2018 10:17 am
by Dougster
I like the post too. Looks kinda "shippy" to me :D I also like the aft position more.

Dougster

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Nov 01, 2018 1:02 pm
by Bogieman
That's a great idea for the cooler hatch. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Nov 01, 2018 1:06 pm
by joe2700
I like the samson post too. I don't know if it should be as far aft as you first had it but I think it looked fine. I'd keep it much further back than this new photo, IMO it looks odd right at the bow. Wherever you put it I'd have the chocks(fairleads) in front of it, I don't think having the line come through those then back forward is a great idea. Having them pretty close to the front keeps them closer to centerline which will help keep you straight at anchor or if you are getting towed. It's your boat though, do whatever looks good to you.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Nov 01, 2018 2:12 pm
by topwater
Looks good to me
Image
Image

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Nov 01, 2018 4:24 pm
by OrangeQuest
Now that is a real Samson Post!! Maybe your boat is where I got the idea Topwater!

Thank you guys for all the input and insights on the post. After I put the post at the very front and looking at the picture of it I don't really like it that far forward and much prefer it back some. And like Joe2700 mentioned the chocks need to in front of the post and closer to the front of the bow.
And thinking about it, I will have a forward anchor locker. Where does it go in relationship to the post? The post will be in the center but that means the anchor locker would be aft of the post and to one side? hmm? Maybe I should put my mock up deck on the ground and see how I can perform using the post and that will determine the best placement of it and the anchor locker. I could have a smaller locker at the very front for straps, shackles, blocks and tow lines. We use 2000lb test winch line and lite weight blocks for moving logs blocking the bayous. We also use them sometimes to pull the canoe up the bank so we have straps to protect the trunks of tree we anchor to. The Ana Marie will not be used for that so much but she wouldn't shy away from it either. :)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Nov 01, 2018 8:03 pm
by OrangeQuest
So I was not able to wait for the fast cure to get to hard before I put a pair of gloves on and went to work. Added fillets to the inside seams, then trimmed some 6oz glass to fit on the inside. IN ONE PIECE! 8O I also had a 1 inch over lap for all the seams so should be water proof. Folded the glass up and laid it into the center of the sleeve. Unfolded it and started rolling the bottom, then rolled epoxy up the sides. My one arm holding a roller barely fit. Needless to say my one arm may still have some epoxy on it! I cleaned up, had a beer and went home. Will see tomorrow how it all turned out. Because I cut the 6oz from a square sheet of glass all the extra will be wrapped around the out side the same time I tape it to the hatch frame.

While I was waiting for the epoxy to cure I trimmed little ridges on the edge of the frame so the glass/epoxy will have a better grip on the frame. If it is a wash out this weekend, which it looks like it might be, I will have time to figure out how to get the foam to expand and fill the whole compartment but not stick to the sleeve. :doh:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Nov 02, 2018 4:31 pm
by OrangeQuest
This morning the glass/epoxy was hard enough to flip and attach to the frame. So I didn't waste any time using 5200 to attach the sleeve to the frame making sure everything was sealed good. Then trimmed the glass to do the outside and attach the frame with some 6oz glass to make sure the sides of the cooler sleeve are air tight.
3991
While waiting for that to get tacky I taped off the top of the frame so I could get some painting done. Easiest way to do that was to hang it from the deck where it goes. Late in the day I painted it.
3990

Nothing fancy just need it to hold drinks and ice. Weighting less than 1.5 pounds it is very strong but It will have foam around it once installed.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Nov 02, 2018 4:40 pm
by Jeff
Nice work OQ!! Really well done!! Have a nice weekend!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Nov 02, 2018 5:32 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thanks Jeff, you too!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Nov 03, 2018 10:05 pm
by OrangeQuest
Didn't spend a lot of time on the build today. But I did take 8 kayaks to be used in a rubber duck race. Mindless ducks all escaped the boom. Nothing like having to chase 6000 rubber ducks down the bayou.
3994
The guys in the red boat never set an anchor in strong current, the boom was never set at the correct angle. And no one was given instructions on what to do. This was the first time they did a rubber duck race.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Nov 04, 2018 5:26 am
by Eric1
Oh man that's ducked up! :lol:
Sorry, I'm sure that was a lot of hard work herding those ducks.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Nov 04, 2018 2:55 pm
by OrangeQuest
Not for me Eric, I watched from the bank. The non profit that rented our boats paid the guys in the red boat to contain them. Volunteers in my kayaks but the non profit gave the kayakers no instructions. When I asked what would the kayakers be doing she told me the guys in the red boat was in charge of that. Those guys just blow the kayakers off. They didn't even seem to know how to control their boat in any kind of current but they told me they were swift water rescue. They even had a 30hp outboard on that boat but seemed to not want to go much more than a fast idle which was odd to me. I enjoyed the show but I think they got mad when I told them it was like the cartoon with the road runner. They didn't speak to me anymore. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Nov 04, 2018 2:58 pm
by Eric1
OrangeQuest wrote: Sun Nov 04, 2018 2:55 pm Not for me Eric, I watched from the bank. The non profit that rented our boats paid the guys in the red boat to contain them. Volunteers in my kayaks but the non profit gave the kayakers no instructions. When I asked what would the kayakers be doing she told me the guys in the red boat was in charge of that. Those guys just blow the kayakers off. They didn't even seem to know how to control their boat in any kind of current but they told me they were swift water rescue. They even had a 30hp outboard on that boat but seemed to not want to go much more than a fast idle which was odd to me. I enjoyed the show but I think they got mad when I told them it was like the cartoon with the road runner. They didn't speak to me anymore. :D
:lol: :lol: :lol: Where's the video!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Nov 04, 2018 5:39 pm
by OrangeQuest
Me video? Did you read how hard it was for me to post pictures!? I think I was with most everyone and just watched the ducks drift by!

I cancelled our venue today due to rain most of the morning, afternoon sun came on out but it was to late to do anything. I got a little work in on the boat. I started by getting in the boat and cleaning the main bilge up some and clearance the chase tubes and stringers for the 40"x3" drain. Because I had to take 5/8" off the top of the stringers I beefed them up by butt blocking two pieces of 10mm ply on each side. Hope that will do the trick and the 9mm sole that will also be glued down. After the WFE got tacky I added a few fillets and filled in any where it look like it needed a little filler (the bilge pump mount needed a little). Next week when I come back to work I should be doing some lite sanding and then painting.
3995

While waiting for the WFE to get tacky I did a little wire wrap around the pump wiring and strapped them down. Still need to route the anchor light and the tank well light harness.
3996

I got a few of the 4chip LEDs and when tested them the diode is getting a little warm. I got blue and white for the tank wells and then white for the control valve locker and the forward anchor locker. The blue ones I think I will add another Zener diode to bring the voltage down a little more so they will clam the bait even more. Once the main bilge is painted I will route all the stern wiring to the chase tube splices in the main bilge area. The wiring will then get labeled and left in bundles. I got a few little details to still do but will then be ready to glue all the stern decks down!!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Nov 08, 2018 10:46 am
by OrangeQuest
So I cut and glued in the supports for the deck plate to the bilge.
4024
I taped them upright so I could add fillets on the bottom to give more support. There is a front moving in so the temps are going to be nose diving down to the low 50's and some areas the high 40's. I may try and coat everything with a thickened mix of flour and epoxy this afternoon so that after we thaw out I can sand and paint the bilge.

I got some more foam cutting wire and will be setting up a cutting jig for cutting the foam that will surround the cooler insert. My game plan is to get the Styrofoam within an inch or so of contacting the insert. To glue the Styrofoam in the exact place I will pour expanding foam in behind the foam in hopes as it expands it pushes the Styrofoam tight to the insert. Looks great on paper!! :doh: May do one side at a time so if it doesn't work it would be less of a mess to clean up. :D :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Nov 08, 2018 12:20 pm
by Jeff
Always nice work OQ!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Nov 08, 2018 1:10 pm
by OrangeQuest
Jeff wrote: Thu Nov 08, 2018 12:20 pm Always nice work OQ!!! Jeff
Thanks Jeff! :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Nov 09, 2018 6:08 am
by OrangeQuest
After looking at my picture and thinking about it, am I putting hard spots on the bottom of the boat with my sole braces? I did manage to get a coat on neat epoxy on everything in the bilge so I will be doing some sanding there. Just want the bottom to not catch dirt and no big blobs of WFE so it will be ready for paint when it warms up. Could start trimming all 3 pumps' wiring down and adding the connectors on them. I can also add my lights to the wells and route wiring for them. Drill the holes for the stern eyes, anchor light mount, cam cleat and chock for the aft anchor rode. And the list goes on! 8O

Well, overnight the temperatures dropped and we are getting a drizzle. At 4 this morning the temps were 60°. It will continue to drop during the day. Forecast is it will be in the high 40's to low 50s by night fall. Doing any gluing or painting is out of the question but I can get a few things ready for when the weather decides to warm back up. Forecast is after this front pushes through there is another hitting next week. :cry: You guys can keep your cold weather!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Nov 09, 2018 8:59 am
by Bogieman
Hi OQ!

We are getting some cooler weather here too and it feels nice. Gets me in the Dark beer and fire pit mood. Good to see you've been making steady progress.

Bogie

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Nov 09, 2018 1:03 pm
by OrangeQuest
Cold, wet day and nothing happening for this weekend. :( More time to mock things up!! :D

So I took the time to cut the templates of the console. It is my version of the standard short console. I had to narrow it a few inches and it's not quiet as long. But it puts me sitting just in front of me mid ship with the fuel tank and battery in the front.. somewhere.
4067
4068
4069

I had to kneel as there is no head room to stand but on the ground this works well. This is where I would like it to be. This gives me a 48"+ foredeck and from the back of the console to the tank frame 6 feet of open space. In my head the weight of the 25hp, the 5 gal tank filled and me sole to be trimmed very close to correct.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Nov 09, 2018 1:12 pm
by narfi
Was sure I had commented last week when this was posted
Image
I spent more than a few minutes of confusion and going back and reading the entire thread trying to find any mention of you planning this look for your 14ft boat. Lots of minutes spent thinking that would be an amazing little ride for the kids to put around in, and then realizing that it wasn't your boat but someone posting about a much larger boat :(

Your LED skullplate reminds me a little of the villan from The 5th Element.... :P
OrangeQuest wrote: Fri Nov 09, 2018 1:03 pm 4069
Joking aside, your (actually yours) boat is looking great and your console looks well proportioned with you standing there!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Nov 09, 2018 1:17 pm
by Capt UB
narfi wrote: Fri Nov 09, 2018 1:12 pm Was sure I had commented last week when this was posted
Image
I spent more than a few minutes of confusion and going back and reading the entire thread trying to find any mention of you planning this look for your 14ft boat. Lots of minutes spent thinking that would be an amazing little ride for the kids to put around in, and then realizing that it wasn't your boat but someone posting about a much larger boat :(

Your LED skullplate reminds me a little of the villan from The 5th Element.... :P
OrangeQuest wrote: Fri Nov 09, 2018 1:03 pm 4069
Joking aside, your (actually yours) boat is looking great and your console looks well proportioned with you standing there!

I think he is on his knees!

""I had to kneel as there is no head room to stand but on the ground this works well""

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Nov 09, 2018 1:37 pm
by narfi
Capt UB wrote: Fri Nov 09, 2018 1:17 pm
I think he is on his knees!
oops. my bad. Still looks good IMO.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Nov 09, 2018 1:45 pm
by OrangeQuest
This is me trying to stand.
4070
I had to make room in the warehouse to keep my boat.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Nov 09, 2018 1:46 pm
by OrangeQuest
If you look under the trailer you can see 2X8s nailed together that I lay foam on and slide the boat off the trailer onto them so I can use the trailer for the canoe.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Nov 09, 2018 2:04 pm
by Jeff
Nice photo OQ!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Nov 09, 2018 2:56 pm
by Fuzz
All I know is you must work much cleaner than me. There is no way I could do boat work in a suit :help: :lol: :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Nov 09, 2018 4:28 pm
by OrangeQuest
Fuzz wrote: Fri Nov 09, 2018 2:56 pm All I know is you must work much cleaner than me. There is no way I could do boat work in a suit :help: :lol: :lol:
Man I just got home and took my first sip of a beer when I read your comment! :lol: :lol: :lol:
Almost lost it! That is a zippered hoody. It has dirty sleeves where it hasn't been washed since last year, I think :doh:
I keep it in the warehouse so I can put something on when it gets a little nippy. Did you notice all the junk surrounding my build?


I am not liking the extended deck so much being flat. It needs to have slight bow in it. May drop the edges an inch or so towards the back below the shear and then even at the bow itself.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Nov 09, 2018 4:39 pm
by Jeff
OQ, Fuzz is right, it does look like a sports coat (at least)!!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Nov 09, 2018 4:58 pm
by Capt UB
OrangeQuest wrote: Fri Nov 09, 2018 4:28 pm
Fuzz wrote: Fri Nov 09, 2018 2:56 pm All I know is you must work much cleaner than me. There is no way I could do boat work in a suit :help: :lol: :lol:
Man I just got home and took my first sip of a beer when I read your comment! :lol: :lol: :lol:
Almost lost it! That is a zippered hoody. It has dirty sleeves where it hasn't been washed since last year, I think :doh:
I keep it in the warehouse so I can put something on when it gets a little nippy. Did you notice all the junk surrounding my build?


I am not liking the extended deck so much being flat. It needs to have slight bow in it. May drop the edges an inch or so towards the back below the shear and then even at the bow itself.


How about lowering part of it??
0909181347b~2.jpg

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Nov 09, 2018 8:52 pm
by OrangeQuest
I thought about a over size breast hook that would be big enough for the Samson Post and the fairleads. With a foredeck below but I don't think that would look right with the console. Even though that would be very stable to stand on. But this is what I am thinking where the front has an edge and as it goes aft it comes up even with the shear. It would also be at the same angle as the gunwale for water run off.
3732

Under that deck is the only storage on the boat. The battery, fuel tank and the anchor have to be up there. One of the steps beside the console will have safety gear and tool box in it.

Some how I am hosting a end of year party for our kayak meet up group at the warehouse. I have to get it all cleaned up before then! :?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Nov 15, 2018 3:14 pm
by OrangeQuest
Still to cold to play with epoxy or paint and don't really feel like sanding. So was toying with the chase tube for the main bilge power wiring. I put 2 45° elbows and then a 90° junction to have an access port for the pump's connector. I will drill a large enough hole in the cover for the connector to slip through then 4200 the opening to seal. The connector will be sealed up inside the junction. This setup gets me access to the pump, pump hose connection and the pump connector from a 8" deck plate. The wiring will be a 14ga triplex with gold plated connector, silver soldered, heat shrink and then sealed with liquid tape. Smallest gauge wiring I am using is 14 gauge, even for my LED lighting. Less chance of it breaking due to viberations and bouncing.

4087

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Nov 15, 2018 3:39 pm
by Bogieman
Nice work, OQ!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Nov 15, 2018 5:09 pm
by OrangeQuest
Bogieman wrote: Thu Nov 15, 2018 3:39 pm Nice work, OQ!
Thanks Bogieman,
Hope all is well on your coast!
OQ

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Nov 16, 2018 6:03 am
by OrangeQuest
So my younger sister was visiting my Mom and scanned a bunch of old pictures and posted a google drive link to our family group on Facebook. I am not sure but this may be my Dad's old fishing boat that spent a lot of time in the Gulf. Only know of stories and a few old home movies of those adventures. I was to young to be part of his crew and he died when I was 7. He would build plywood boats and sell them as a side job. I remember he would use a powdered glue that you just mixed with water and once dry it was pretty hard. But I don't know if he built this thing or bought it from some one. I really like the lines of the boat and love the shape of the bow.
4091

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Nov 16, 2018 6:09 am
by Eric1
Nice memories and interesting boat! :)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Nov 16, 2018 7:39 am
by Capt UB
She has the round chine going for her!

CASCO POWDERED CASEIN GLUE

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Nov 16, 2018 8:02 am
by OrangeQuest
One of my favorite stories of him and the boat is he would load it up with as much gasoline as he could carry on it and head out into the Gulf as major storms would push in. He claimed it was the best time to fish. He would fill anything that would hold fuel and put it on board. It was powered by a 35 hp motor with a little 2.5hp kicker air cooled motor from Sears. I know I ate a lot of fish when I was a kid, all kinds of fish! :)

I have the love of the water and boats like he did but didn't get any of his fishing skills! :wink:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Nov 16, 2018 9:50 am
by pee wee
OrangeQuest wrote: Fri Nov 16, 2018 6:03 am I remember he would use a powdered glue that you just mixed with water and once dry it was pretty hard.
Great memories OQ! I remember my father used a powdered glue on the boats he built, I think it was a powdered Urea resin. It was tan/brown and you mixed it with water, it dried hard.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Nov 16, 2018 10:14 am
by Bogieman
That's pretty cool, OQ! The ole cabin cruiser style boats are still my favorite powerboats. My parents also had one like that when I was a toddler; probably why my favorite powerboat is the C17 w/ cabin. Isn't it hard to imagine living in a place where you'd be landlocked? There's just too much fun to be had in boats to live that way.

Bogie

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Nov 16, 2018 12:12 pm
by OrangeQuest
pee wee wrote: Fri Nov 16, 2018 9:50 am
OrangeQuest wrote: Fri Nov 16, 2018 6:03 am I remember he would use a powdered glue that you just mixed with water and once dry it was pretty hard.
Great memories OQ! I remember my father used a powdered glue on the boats he built, I think it was a powdered Urea resin. It was tan/brown and you mixed it with water, it dried hard.
That was the color of the stuff and I am guessing that you would use more or less water to thicken it.
Bogieman wrote: Fri Nov 16, 2018 10:14 am That's pretty cool, OQ! The ole cabin cruiser style boats are still my favorite powerboats. My parents also had one like that when I was a toddler; probably why my favorite powerboat is the C17 w/ cabin. Isn't it hard to imagine living in a place where you'd be landlocked? There's just too much fun to be had in boats to live that way.

Bogie
I also like the C17 but the cabin is off just a little. If my FS14 was a FS16 or FS18 I would be putting the cabin on it! The hull of the old cruisers remind me of the WWII PT boats.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Nov 16, 2018 2:14 pm
by Jeff
OQ, I am a real fan of the old PT Boats!!! Good progress on your build!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Nov 16, 2018 5:12 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thanks Jeff,
but progress has slowed due to temps staying below 60. I do not work any venues this Sunday and the temps will be in the mid 70's so may try to get the main bilge painted. If I can get that done I can start running wire to all the aft electrical. I would like to get that done so I can attach the wash decks and the tank well deck. Because the chase tubes are spliced in the bilge I can cut the wiring to length and leave it all rolled up in the main bilge as everything else gets built. I am building my sole in three sections, port, starboard and the center. Center being the last to go on.

Still fighting myself on the length of the foredeck. I like the size of the deck as designed but want it to bow up slightly on the aft end to roll spray off. But it doesn't give me much storage so the extend deck would be more useful. It would also make for a good casting deck then. I don't know yet. I may just cut some of my scrap plywood and build up both decks to see which one I like more out in the sun light.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Nov 17, 2018 6:09 am
by OrangeQuest
So I was concerned at using the 304 stainless steel drain on my boat and its use in a marine environment. I am going to try and use self etching primer then top coat to protect it but here is something I stubbled across in my search for an answer to it's use. A lot of the nuts, bolts and screws that I will be using are the 304 or 8-18 grade SS.
https://www.thebalance.com/type-304-and ... el-2340261
If anyone else is interested in it.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Nov 17, 2018 9:27 am
by topwater
I wouldn't put 304 on anything in salt water, 316 or 316L only. But thats me .

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Nov 17, 2018 10:27 am
by Capt UB
topwater wrote: Sat Nov 17, 2018 9:27 am I wouldn't put 304 on anything in salt water, 316 or 316L only. But thats me .

304 is stronger and not as STAINLESS as 316. The cost on my 48 Ketch to refit the standing rigging would have been (wires used to hold the mast up) 4 times the cost of 304, in 1990's. I did have to do regular checks to the stalocks and my sails did get a little rusty looking in some areas. I can't speak about todays SS quality, cheap and lots of impurities.... A few dollars more, 316 would be my call also.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Nov 17, 2018 11:44 am
by Jeff
OQ, I agree with UB and TopWater, go 316!! You will be glad you did!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Nov 17, 2018 1:12 pm
by TomW1
OQ definitely go with 316 for the slight difference in cost is worth it.

Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Nov 17, 2018 1:43 pm
by OrangeQuest
I would be happy to get a 40" drain pan and strainer in 316 if they made them close to the price of this one (FREE) Etching primer and top coat should seal it. Epoxy had to be sanded off of it where I test fit it and the WFE was still wet. I didn't see it till cured.


Someone show me a link where I can get perforated 316 sheets and I will make my deck strainers. Best place I have found for metal stuff in custom sizes and they don't sell it. https://www.onlinemetals.com/merchant.c ... &top_cat=1
I have been very careful on buying only 316 deck hardware and my source for 316 fastners is boltdepot.com but they don't sell the size I need in the square drive machine bolts I need for some of the tight places on my boat.


Most of the deck drain strainers I have found are to small, extremely expensive chromed bronze or ABS or stamped 304.

By the way, this drain is not a cheap shower drain you can just get anywhere for a few bucks.
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Oatey-40-in ... 208238-_-N
Check out the review. Home Depot just put these on the market.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Nov 17, 2018 4:38 pm
by OrangeQuest
Now I just read where to help keep stainless steel from rust is to keep it uncovered/painted and do not seal. It needs oxygen to prevent rust. 8O 8O :doh: :doh:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Nov 18, 2018 8:27 am
by topwater
What about bronze strainer covers or drains ? A little more money with none of the headaches .
Image

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Nov 18, 2018 9:19 am
by OrangeQuest
I thought about the bronze drain covers. Was even going in that direction but this drain was so much easier and would catch a lot of water at once.

The SS drain has been put on hold for now. May use it as a pattern for a glass drain pan. I still need to make two for the front.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Nov 18, 2018 3:07 pm
by OrangeQuest
New game plan!!

Stopped by hobby store to get thin sheets of foam rubber to make gaskets under my hatch frames. Went over and pick up a couple of sheets of aircraft (hobby) plywood. 1/8"X12"X24". It is 3 plies of birch with the grain going length wise. I will use the 304SS drain pan for a pattern to form the drain pan and I can extend it all the way across. I can also use the birch to make slats to form the grate and then spacers between the slats. This should work really well and I can make matching drains for the front. and NO RUST!

Also picked up a small piece of gray felt to cover the bottom of the aft anchor tube. Maybe I should stop buying stuff and get back to making it. :wink:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Nov 18, 2018 7:17 pm
by Bogieman
Nice 8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Nov 19, 2018 9:49 am
by Jeff
Nice work!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Nov 19, 2018 11:05 am
by OrangeQuest
Thanks guys! :)

I don't like using metal that will someday start to rust. Our motorized canoe has the cheap stuff on it. It is pitted and corroding pretty good, but was never built to be in as much saltwater as it has been.

On a side note: I ordered more "boating" books from the online book store. 6 more books for under $25.00 and then they gave me free shipping and 20% discount. I am real excited to see what advice SpongeBob has on boating! :D J/k

One of the books I really need is: "The Illustrated Dictionary of Boating Terms 2,000 Essential Terms for Sailors and Powerboaters"
So when you salty sailors start talking sailor stuff I may have a clue as to what you are saying! :doh:
And it has pictures!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Nov 19, 2018 3:52 pm
by narfi
OrangeQuest wrote: Mon Nov 19, 2018 11:05 am [/i][/b]So when you salty sailors start talking sailor stuff I may have a clue as to what you are saying! :doh:
I haven't tried it, but always assumed it became clear once down a 1/2 bottle of rum?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Nov 19, 2018 4:05 pm
by Jaysen
narfi wrote: Mon Nov 19, 2018 3:52 pm
OrangeQuest wrote: Mon Nov 19, 2018 11:05 am So when you salty sailors start talking sailor stuff I may have a clue as to what you are saying! :doh:
I haven't tried it, but always assumed it became clear once down a 1/2 bottle of rum?
And waste the other half?!?!? No no no! You drink the WHOLE bottle. Then you talk.

And this explains my “sea sickness” every time I go out for an over night...

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Nov 20, 2018 5:55 am
by OrangeQuest
Jaysen wrote: Mon Nov 19, 2018 4:05 pm
narfi wrote: Mon Nov 19, 2018 3:52 pm
OrangeQuest wrote: Mon Nov 19, 2018 11:05 am So when you salty sailors start talking sailor stuff I may have a clue as to what you are saying! :doh:
I haven't tried it, but always assumed it became clear once down a 1/2 bottle of rum?
And waste the other half?!?!? No no no! You drink the WHOLE bottle. Then you talk.

And this explains my “sea sickness” every time I go out for an over night...
:lol: :lol:

I did find a book about Boating Etiquette. I think it did mention something in the description of the book that you talk like a sailor at half a bottle of rum and talk like a pirate after the whole bottle. :wink:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Nov 21, 2018 5:21 pm
by OrangeQuest
Cut most everything for the new aft drain. Laid everything out and covered with neat epoxy. Tomorrow I will sand lightly and see if one coat is enough to prime or I need more epoxy. The birch really likes the epoxy and soaked it right up. If the grain is not showing I will then tape where the spacers will go and paint everything. Then assembly.

4093

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Nov 21, 2018 7:23 pm
by Eric1
I can't wait to see it come together!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Nov 21, 2018 8:12 pm
by Jeff
Nice work OQ!!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Nov 22, 2018 10:12 am
by OrangeQuest
Thanks Eric and Jeff, hope you guys are having a peaceful Thanksgiving.

Well, I came in this morning and sanded everything down. It really needs another but I think I am going to do it once I get it all together. There are a lot of small parts that like to move around a lot, A LOT! Easiest way I found is to clamp it and align the spacers and then clamp. Move to the next group of spacers. Here is what it looks like pre-assemble.
4094
And close up of the slats and the spacers.
4095

Once this is all glued up I cut 7" off the ends to have the same exact type strainers in the front.


I think the only way I can glue this stuff together is neat epoxy and clamp as I go. Will just have to use a brush. If this was a wooden model I would just hold it all together with superglue!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Nov 22, 2018 12:38 pm
by Eric1
Freakin Sweet! Happy Thanksgiving!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Nov 22, 2018 1:04 pm
by OrangeQuest
So to make glue up a little easier I flipped the whole thing up right and taped all the slats and spacers on one side. Flipped it back over, taped side down and removed the clamps. Laid the whole thing over 3/4" PVC.
4097
4096

Mixed up some fast epoxy neat and with a 1/4" chip brush slathered the openings between the spacers and slats. Laid the whole thing back down on the table and clamped ever thing back up. Remaining epoxy was brushed between the opens to make sure every thing was coated well.

May have to cut my clamps off but I think this will work. I will come in tomorrow and see what I got. The cleats are ready and a side project has been getting the bow eye holes drilled, over drilled, filled and then drilled to size. Also stacked 3 pieces of 9mm plywood and cut to correct angle and size for a backing for the bow eye. It should all be glued in when I install the cleats for the main bilge tomorrow! Depending on the temps I maybe doing a little primer next week!
Eric1 wrote: Thu Nov 22, 2018 12:38 pm Freakin Sweet! Happy Thanksgiving!
It's nothing compared to your work. But thank you! :wink:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Nov 22, 2018 2:33 pm
by Jeff
Nice work OQ!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Nov 23, 2018 3:00 pm
by OrangeQuest
Was planning on coming to the warehouse for a few hours, customer picking rentals up at around 10 and finish up what I had going on and heading home. Should of known my assistant told me to let them know to bring them back Monday after 10:15. We have a great deal on renting boats. Pick up on Friday and return sometime Monday for the price of one day. You could rent the boats for 4 days! Ladies get here at 10:30 to pick up the 4 boats. Reminded them they need to be back after 10 on Monday. The lady freaked out, saying she rented a truck for just the day and was returning the boats TODAY! Sooooo, here I am, doing more boat work. Good thing I got lots of cold beer!

Glued in the bow eye backing block. Sanded and glued the sides of the drain pan. Glued the main bilge cleats in. Now just watching the epoxy cure. I am liking the way the sole strainer turned out and when I mount it I will glue it in a little proud and sand it down flush to the sole. The cleats in the bilge were the last things to go on so if the temps are good still tomorrow I may get a few coat of primer in the bilge.

If all goes well will be wiring the aft section of the boat when the temps drop again. They are climbing into the mid to high 70s now so not to bad for things that need epoxy.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Nov 23, 2018 3:11 pm
by Fuzz
Man your weather has been all over the place.
Too bad your day got messed up but it does sort of work out. You just had no choice other than spend the day doing boat work :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Nov 23, 2018 5:27 pm
by OrangeQuest
Fuzz wrote: Fri Nov 23, 2018 3:11 pm Man your weather has been all over the place.
Too bad your day got messed up but it does sort of work out. You just had no choice other than spend the day doing boat work :D
Sweater in the morning and shorts in the afternoon. Or it could be shorts in the morning and sweater in the afternoon. This time of year you keep a coat and an umbrella in your car.

The ladies came back early and helped clean up the boats, so it was a win win. I also had FedEx deliver some new gear for the warehouse that I had ordered.

With me hitting so many different places on the boat with epoxy I am wearing some too. I hit all the little places that need just a dab and the boat is in a tight spot. I forget where I put the left over epoxy and brush up against it all the time. That's why I do just a few spots and leave! :lol: I am happy I got a lot done today and tomorrow will be the same.

There is no forecast of ANY rain for the whole weekend!! That almost never happens. The forecast doesn't have the chance of rain on it, like it is missing! It will flood! 8O

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Nov 24, 2018 11:13 am
by Eric1
That's me too. I start the day in jeans and a jacket go to the shop and change into shorts.
I clean up epoxy as soon as I get any on me, but after last session I came home to find hardened epoxy on top of my head! 8O
How I managed that is a mystery.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Nov 24, 2018 3:49 pm
by OrangeQuest
The weather turned out really nice. Was able to get a few things done to the boat. Yesterday I glued the backing block into the bow for the bow eye. At the same time I forced epoxy glue into the holes for the bow eye by covering the bolts with tape and finishing the tape to a point. Because the backing block was 3 sheets of 9mm ply I put them on one at a time. Forcing the glue around the bolts and then glue between each sheet generous squeeze out everywhere.

This morning I just used the nuts on the bow eye end to force the bolts out. Ran a 3/8" drill bit through the two holes and done! Cleats in the bilge are nice and solid so finish sanding and went straight to bilge paint, skipping the primer. Only reason to paint it at all is there is a deck plate. Tomorrow will get another coat and call that done.

Instead of watching the paint dry I worked on the 3 drain strainers, cleaning them up a bit but they are far from ready. Also glued on the port wash deck and it is curing over night. Trying to take advantage of the mild weather and getting painting and epoxy stuff out of the way so when cooler weather hits I can still get things done on the boat. I can cut and build the console but I will not know where to install it till I can do a water trim test. To do that I have to flip the boat and complete the sides and bottom.


I want to put 3.25 oz glass on the sides, finish the transom and maybe try to get the graphite bottom a little better faired. But while it is upside down I will paint the hull.


I may save pictures till I am off Monday!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Nov 25, 2018 6:23 am
by OrangeQuest
Working up front on the bow eye and backing for it I started looking more and more how the rub rails have came together at a point. A very pointy point and I just don't like it. I started looking at bows of other small boats to see if there was a way or trick to make the point of the bow less pointy where the rub rails come together and stumbled across this little pulpit!
4101

I was thinking about something like this but not squared off in the back but more contoured to the rub rails like a breast hook, . Then I can build the foredeck per the plans, where the front of the deck is below the shear a little. I still need to get the front anchor but was looking at the smallest of the Fortress anchors. FX-7 which only weighs 4 pounds without the chain. Because the anchor comes apart it wouldn't be on the pulpit all the time.
I will play with the idea some. Still a long ways from doing much work on the bow! :doh:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Nov 25, 2018 2:22 pm
by Capt UB
Depending on the anchor, you will need to stick it out a bit more. A small CQR, plow would look nice, not a rock anckor....

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Nov 26, 2018 3:18 pm
by OrangeQuest
I found a smaller and cheaper Fortress Anchor that is made for my boat and I can get the "anchor kit" for less than just the FX7 and the whole thing weighs less than 10 pounds with chain. But I will get the anchor and play with it then. I may have to build a "trigger" that as the anchor comes to the pulpit it causes the flukes to move outward, away from the bow so the anchor lays correctly on the pulpit.
4113
But moving on to the wiring of the stern now.


With the main bilge all but finished I will start building the connectors and running the wiring for the stern. It will be easier access now before the other deck are glued in to get that knocked out of the way. Once the wiring is ran I will just label and bundle them in the bilge for future use. Because I pretty much decided to light all the aft compartments and use one switch to do it I have thought of a plan to keep the bulk splices down. I will run a single duplex wire from the console to a Pos and Neg bus bar. Then run all the compartment lights to the bus bars. I think it will be easier to add/change lights or do any repairs if needed. Then all the other loads will get their own wiring ran. Has far as I can tell I need 3 triplex wires and 3 duplex wires running to the stern.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Nov 26, 2018 3:59 pm
by glossieblack
I like the way you're heading with your anchor setup. :D

Image

Image

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Nov 26, 2018 7:55 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thanks GB but remember I am just thinking about this kind of a set up, but I do like it.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Nov 26, 2018 8:54 pm
by Capt UB
Capt UB wrote: Sun Nov 25, 2018 2:22 pm Depending on the anchor, you will need to stick it out a bit more. A small CQR, plow would look nice, not a rock anckor....

This is what a fluke anchor looks like, they don't always sit well...
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A plow (Bruce is another)would look so nice...
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Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Nov 26, 2018 10:28 pm
by OrangeQuest
The anchor I am looking at has a 32° angle and the fluke is 11" long. I used the Danforth anchor that I already have to see what it would look like on the bow. I was able to bring the pivot point of the flukes almost touching the bow before the tips of the flukes were touching anything. But to many variables that I won't know till I get the anchor in hand. With a 19" shank that will need a lot of deck to have the Samson Post and anchor inline on the deck. What I really like is maybe pushing a button at the helm and the anchor going up or down. 8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Nov 27, 2018 1:22 am
by TomW1
Guys its a 14' boat how often are you going to be using the anchor and what type of bottoms are you going to be using it in. Shell, grass, sand, etc. The Fortress is fine in sand and mud but not in grass or shell or stone. For that you need a bruce which will also work well in sand and mud. For a 14' boat you really don't need a big anchor a 4 Bruce or instead of a Fortress a Guardian 5, same company, same design, a couple less features. The Commando package you show is good as it has the Guardian 5, plus chain and rope and carrying case.

Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Nov 27, 2018 7:21 am
by OrangeQuest
TomW1 wrote: Tue Nov 27, 2018 1:22 am Guys its a 14' boat how often are you going to be using the anchor and what type of bottoms are you going to be using it in. Shell, grass, sand, etc. The Fortress is fine in sand and mud but not in grass or shell or stone. For that you need a bruce which will also work well in sand and mud. For a 14' boat you really don't need a big anchor a 4 Bruce or instead of a Fortress a Guardian 5, same company, same design, a couple less features. The Commando package you show is good as it has the Guardian 5, plus chain and rope and carrying case.

Tom
For the most part Tom it will be the loose sand, packed sand, mud and clay bottoms. Not to much anchoring over grass. But the FS14 will allow going more places and as we explore and encounter different areas then the anchor system will change to meet those conditions. One thing about the Commando anchor is it disassembles for easy storage, so it will not always be the anchor of choice. The anchor locker will hopefully be big enough to stow the working rode, extra line, anchor and mooring lines. Something like the Navy anchor will stow easily with the shank in a tube bolted to the locker wall and the flukes pointed downward. Giving more room for the Commando storage bag and the working rode and extra lines. Most anchors for the size boat will have a shank that can go into the tube. I don't like gear being packed on top of more gear that needs to be moved to get to the gear below.

My idea of an anchor locker is to stow a complete anchor system as a back up, main anchor system and then spare shackles, extra line and a place for mooring lines to go. If I use up the front of the bow with a pulpit then the anchor locker hatch will have to be behind it. But that gives me that little bit of space, under the pulpit, for the extra lines and gear that won't be used to often. The spare anchor tube can then be bolted to the frame that forms the back of the locker and take advantage of the increase of the vee at the bottom. With mooring line mesh bags on each side of the tube. The Commando bag then bolted down in front of the tube, running parallel with the frame. That should leave the center of the locker for the rode to fall into. But I haven't gave it much thought on the exact set up. :wink:

The rest of below the foredeck will be fuel tank storage, spare PFDs and a locker to fit a removeable cooler. Don't see much more space for anything else. Boat hook, paddle and type 4 throw floats will be stowed on the sides of the boat. The steps on each side of the console will be for fishing tackle and personal gear.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Nov 27, 2018 9:51 pm
by TomW1
The Commander anchor is a Guardian and like all Fortress/Guardian brand anchors do break down. Again they are only good for soft and hard sand and mud. If your going to get into anything other than that you will need to carry a Bruce 4. I will be honest pick an anchor that you will use 90% of the time and don't worry about the rest of it. Just stow it in the anchor locker without the bag as it sounds like you don't need a lot of anchoring at depth. Then plan your other storage around that.

Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Nov 28, 2018 6:22 am
by OrangeQuest
That is really good advice Tom. Thank you.

My thoughts are the Commando will be stowed on the pulpit. I read where the storage bag could be attached to the deck if needed so it would have a place in the locker. If I know I will be needing a different anchor that the G5 will not work well then I will trade it out. The G5 will then be disassembled and stowed in the storage bag, only as long as the other anchor is needed. I don't remember if it is required or just good safety sense but I have read that you always need a "lunch" anchor and then a storm anchor. One used for the day to day hook use and then the other for when something stronger is needed or need to control the swing. Or if you are like some people and lose the first anchor. 8O

Today I get to start getting ready for a big private tour tomorrow but may get a few hours working on the boat before the sun comes up. I will start measuring the duplex and triplex out to make sure I have enough before cutting any of it. Will also be trimming down all the pigtails on the pumps and adding the connectors to those things, mounting locker lights and I can mount the main bilge pump and finally trim the hose to length! I may even push the boat outside and wash all the dust and things out of the inside this weekend!

Will be in the high 70s and maybe even reach 80 the next few days! This cold winter weather sucks! :lol: :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Nov 28, 2018 6:31 am
by Bogieman
8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Nov 28, 2018 7:39 am
by Jaysen
"storm anchor" means a couple different things. There really isn't ANY "requirements" for anchors. But common sense says you should have a main that is adequate to hold your vessel in high wind/current/swell situations (adequate weight and design with sufficient chain and rhode) and an auxillary "what the fork!?!?! Is jaysen out boating today? 'cause this nightmare wasn't in the plan" anchor that can be used to supplement the main when you don't want to be Lieutenant Dan.

As to which design... I can't imagine any reason NOT to just start with the bruce style. They are pretty much the bomb and if you ever get to the point a properly sized bruce isn't holding your immediate actions toss toss the aux, inflate the PFD and send your last will and testament to the spouse/heirs. Once that's done change your shorts and enjoy the ride.

I may be in a mood this morning. Hopefully there's something useful up there. Maybe even just for a laugh (or nasal passage cleanout in Fuzz's case).

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Nov 28, 2018 10:19 am
by OrangeQuest
I do not like Bruce Claws and yes I have had one for many years along with other anchors. The Claw is to hard to set and sometimes takes several tries to get it to set. No Thank you. In a "oh fudge" situation I want something I can trust to grab first try.


The G-5 is a good GP anchor that doesn't take up to much space.


https://www.westmarine.com/WestAdvisor/Anchor-Testing

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Nov 28, 2018 11:30 am
by jacquesmm
I like Bruce anchor but they must be real Bruce's (made in Belgium), not cheap Chinese copies. You probably had problems with those copies.
I had some real Bruce's for 20 years, no problem. Today, I prefer modern anchors like Mantus and Manson. They perform 2 or 3 times better.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Nov 28, 2018 12:35 pm
by OrangeQuest
I think it does say "MADE IN CHINA" on it! 8O

A lot of kayakers love them, I am just not one of them.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Nov 28, 2018 2:19 pm
by jacquesmm
Yes, they are different. A real Bruce is marked "Bruce made in Belgium".
The edge is sharper and the weight balance (center of gravity) is different.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Nov 28, 2018 3:22 pm
by Fuzz
I had a 33 pound Bruce on a 34 foot boat with 180 foot of chain. Here in Cook Inlet the only time it did not hold it was fouled. It would hold through 5-6 knot current and 25 foot tides even with another boat tied along side. I did not think there was a better anchor made. I went to Bristol Bay and learned a lesson. That Bruce ploughed the bottom of the whole bay. I never could trust it to hold. A danforth style was what worked in the bay. Different bottoms need different styles of anchors. The new style anchors like the manson may solve a lot of this problem but I have no experience with one of them. If the area is new to you look around and see what the commercial boys are using. Odds are the working boats know what works in the area.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Nov 28, 2018 5:42 pm
by OrangeQuest
jacquesmm wrote: Wed Nov 28, 2018 2:19 pm Yes, they are different. A real Bruce is marked "Bruce made in Belgium".
The edge is sharper and the weight balance (center of gravity) is different.
Well when I got home I pulled my Bruce out and couldn't find where it was made at all, only thing printed on it is the weight "1Kg." But I think you are right about the edges and the CG. Test after test it lands on it's shank (upside down). Then the outer claw doesn't dig in. This is mine.
4120
Fuzz wrote: Wed Nov 28, 2018 3:22 pm Different bottoms need different styles of anchors. The new style anchors like the manson may solve a lot of this problem but I have no experience with one of them. If the area is new to you look around and see what the commercial boys are using. Odds are the working boats know what works in the area.
Sound advice Fuzz. Most the boats in my area of operation use Danforth style anchors or newer boats use power poles. But because I can cover more ground I will heed your advice in my travels.

When I had my bigger boat that I bought from my ex-father in-law, he never could get his Danforth anchors to set. But he like to drop them straight down and play out a little line and drag the anchor yards before giving up and trying again. Repeat it over and over until he gave up and would say the anchors were crap and throw out all kinds of excuses. I never had any problems setting the same anchors over the same bottom. But I also never dropped anchor and tied off when it hit bottom.

Sometimes it's not the anchor but how it is being used that makes it bad. But just like you said Fuzz, need different anchors for different bottoms. We all have anchors that we have learn to trust over the years of using them in the areas we know they will work, just like I have mine.

When I typed GP=general purpose.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Nov 29, 2018 6:02 am
by OrangeQuest
Well I measured, cut and then routed all the wire needed for the aft section of the boat. To soon the tell but I may have cut all my wire to short. And I don't want to splice any of it. May pull it all back out and start over. I forgot there is a curve under the tank well that takes an extra foot of wire. I had to get gear ready for a big tour for today and assembly a popcorn machine that is on wheels so not a lot of time on the build. Will have about an hour to sort things out this morning. Then the tour.

Friday will be less busy for me so see what I can get done then. We are a little short handed this time of year so I have to work our DG venue both Saturday and Sunday. Standing in waist deep water pulls the energy right out of me. Even if it is a warm 67°not much spunk left at the end. Worked it just last Sunday and could hardly walk my body was so stiff Sunday night. Good news is 6 of the nine books have came in that I ordered and two more should be in today. Don't have a drop date on the late one "Chapman Boating Etiquette". I think that's just rude! :wink:
Will have lots to read and look at all the pictures my two days off so I can recover.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Nov 29, 2018 7:04 am
by Eric1
Dang I hope your wires are long enough.
I'm just curious as to why you wouldn't splice.

I know how standing in the water feels. I have waders for trout fishing but I try to stay out of them! :)
I hope all goes well for you.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Nov 29, 2018 8:00 am
by OrangeQuest
Eric1 wrote: Thu Nov 29, 2018 7:04 am Dang I hope your wires are long enough.
I'm just curious as to why you wouldn't splice.

I know how standing in the water feels. I have waders for trout fishing but I try to stay out of them! :)
I hope all goes well for you.
About splices: It is just one more place for things to go wrong. Plus I am using the 3% voltage drop formula to run the wire, the splices would be a source of voltage drop even though none of my wiring will be over burden with current. No sense in running a long piece of wire just to splice another 12" to reach the connection. If I have to order more wire for the aft section I will just use this stuff for the front half. I have to order more one way or the other. I was rushing yesterday so it may not be as bad as I think. Plus I have my spare chase tube that I could use that is a more direct run without the big "S" turns. Love it when there is a back up plan! 8)

Standing in the water: Some of our employees use the chest waders but they are to hot for mild weather and very bulky so you move slow in them, plus if you go out to deep the water gets in. I wear 1.5mm neoprene pants or shorts. They are hot till I get in the water and then they are comfortable once the water that gets in them warms up. I also wear knee high neoprene boots that keep the water from rushing in and out around my feet. Then in colder weather I wear the top half be it long or short sleeves and even a zipper vest that all work well in keep the cold water at a fairly comfortable temp. The body still spends a lot of energy trying to keep the body warm. Good thing is the whole time you are moving quickly and you don't have time to think of your personal comfort till the sun sets. Then all our gear is packed up for the night. The few miles sitting, getting back to the warehouse you notice everything stiff when you try to get out of the van. That's when I let all the younger people get everything cleaned for the next day while I enjoy a cold beer, or two. :wink:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Dec 01, 2018 6:01 am
by OrangeQuest
No real progress on the build, other than trimming down the bilge discharge hose, heating it up and connecting to the primary bilge pump that was also bolted in. Some cleaning up to do in the bilge and it is done. With the temps remaining in the mid 70s for the whole weekend I am going to glue in the starboard wash deck so the epoxy can cure up nicely. Once cured I can start working on the final shape of the transom. One thing I have been putting off is the drilling and filling of the transom eyes so I can get that done.

On the cooler days I will start mocking up the lockers for the bow so I can see how all that will work together. I think I am going to leave the foredeck the designed size and butt the console up to it but still toying with a few other ideas. Not really committed to anything just yet.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Dec 06, 2018 4:13 pm
by OrangeQuest
I ordered some samples from SeaDek and they came in. This is the same stuff all our SUP boards have on the deck and I really like the stuff. But the cost I may do just the foredeck and then a little left over to go where the ladder will come up.

Look at all the colors. This sample pack was shipped free.
4142

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Dec 06, 2018 4:26 pm
by Bogieman
8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Dec 13, 2018 4:12 pm
by OrangeQuest
It's been a week with not much done to the build. End of the year my job picks up a little and had to host a kayak party the president signed me up to do. Since both wash decks have been glued on they are ready to match the shape of the transom to the decks. Will be needing a little putty for that but the temperatures have been bouncing around to much to chance mixing epoxy. I was thinking I was ready to glue down the deck for the tank wells and the cold locker but thought I should get the cold locker foam squared away before any more deck gluing. There is a 4" gap below the cold locker box so I used expanding foam. But I didn't want the locker to stick to the foam so I used a sheet of Styrofoam to get the foam to be even and no sticking to the box. It worked great! Not perfect but I will put some EVA foam under the locker for support and it will help form a seal between the drain and the drain tube. Requires a slight compression to get the cold box to go down flush. The screws that attach the hatch frame will take care of that.

For insulation I will be cutting Styrofoam blocks to take up space around the cold locker. I want a snug fit so after I get all the blocks cut to size I will brush expanding foam on the back side to "glue the pieces in place and to push the blocks snugly against the locker. Once all the blocks are glued in I will coat with neat epoxy and add a 1" or 2" strip of felt at the top edge to aid in the locker coming in and out.

As long as the bottom and the sides are insulated I think my cold beverages will stay cold as long as they have ice. The one foam block that will remain removable will be the one over the junction box. I don't see needing to access it much but it does have a spare chase tube that if I add anything else I can run the wiring through it.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Dec 14, 2018 4:33 pm
by OrangeQuest
Well I got the EVA foam layers all glued up to help support the bottom of the cold locker. Also have the EVA foam seal made for the drain and it is all ready to be glued into the bottom of the locker. Sunday the temps will climb to high 60's and then I will be off for 2 days while it all cures. Once I put neat epoxy down to seal the expanding foam I will just lay the EVA foam on top and weigh it down with the cold locker.

In the morning I am going to finish setting up my hot knife cutter to cut some blocks of Styrofoam to fill in the sides. As I stated, I am going to use the expanding foam to "glue the Styrofoam in and it should expand to fill any gaps between the blocks and cold locker. The cooler temps seems to keep the expanding foam from expanding to fast or as much as in the hot summer temps. I have to try and get 8 blocks in place, with expanding foam painted on the back side and then slide the cold locker down to keep the blocks from expanding to much. Only putting the expanding foam on the bottom and edges of the blocks so it, fingers crossed, expands till contact with cold locker and then the foam expands to the corners and upward.

Cutting the thickness of the blocks with the hot knife I should get the blocks fairly close to filling the space up. I will practice putting the blocks in a few times and number the locations on where they go and have them in order to speed things up as fast as I can get them. I will have to take pictures during the practice runs.

Wish me luck,
OQ

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Dec 15, 2018 6:28 am
by Eric1
Good Luck!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Dec 15, 2018 9:31 am
by OrangeQuest
Thanks Eric!

So far this morning it is going fairly good. I have one more side to cut but I just broke my cutting wire. It is against the side of the boat so it is a compound cut. Which to do it I have to put the wire at 70 degrees of the table and cut the foam at 83.4 degrees of square.

Since I have to re-do the wire I think I am going to put the wire to cut horizonal. I can off set the wire then at one of the angles and then raise one end of the foam block on the other. It is something that will have to wait till morning. I am working the last venue of the year this weekend and will be getting ready for that soon.

I think the weather is to cold (high 50's and 10mph winds) to do any paddling today but the president said to do it any way. Will be taking my 5mm thick chest waders just in case. 8O

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Dec 16, 2018 5:52 am
by OrangeQuest
So before I started "work" I made the compound cut into the block of Styrofoam. The piece I cut to fit did not work but the scrap half did. I now have just a small gap at the bottom to cut and the foam insulation is complete for the cold box. To hold all the pieces in I think I am going to use 4200. There are no loose gaps are anything so I will just seal the seams. I will try to remember to take a picture of the way I rigged my hot wire cutting jig. I was able to adjust either end up or down to get almost any angle I needed. It worked nicely but I did snap the wire 3 times but it maybe because of it getting hot and then bending it. The heat may have caused it to become more brittle. It is kind of like in the movies when a Ninja slices some one and you don't see the cut till they slide apart.

I will try to post pictures tomorrow when I have more time. I am working the last day of our venue at the park in downtown Houston.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Dec 17, 2018 1:49 pm
by OrangeQuest
I got all the foam blocks in place and the fit is tight! So I decided to spread some neat epoxy over the surface of the foam so it would make it a little more durable. Note to self: Styrofoam is like a sponge when coating with epoxy!

Next try will be painting with exterior latex paint. I am just trying to keep this stuff together so I can get the deck glued on, painted and the cold locker bolted down. The box is water tight and the drain should seal good.
Over head view
4185
Will be sealing all seams and the edges where the EVA foam meets the Styrofoam. What I little pain! Can't wait to be done with this locker. Once completed the deck over the tank wells and cold locker can be glued down and I can move forward to the rest of the build.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Dec 17, 2018 7:04 pm
by Bogieman
Looking good, OQ!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Dec 18, 2018 7:52 am
by Jeff
Yes, nice progress OQ, especially with some of your crazy weather out there!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Dec 18, 2018 9:17 am
by OrangeQuest
Thanks Bogieman and Jeff, our weather is a little crazy! We have very thick fog this morning that has already caused a few wrecks on the freeways.

Because our season ended I have to inventory all the company gear, I think I will also inventory my supplies and see what else I need to get to the finish line. Till now all my work has been areas that won't be seen by most. Because I am now getting to the decks and topside everything will need more sanding and prep work for a cleaner paint job. :(
I have stock piled 5" OB sanding disks at 60,80,120 and 220 grits. That goes for the belt sanders and the SOB multitool also. Oh, and more drum sanders too. Almost forgot the flapper wheels for the angle grinder. I think I need to build a special place in my work shop just for sanding supplies! Along with a dust/fume collection system.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Dec 18, 2018 9:36 am
by Jaysen
If you're working on "visible areas" I'd really be slow to consider the angle grinder. Made that mistake.

That said, fairing compound is always something to keep on hand :)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Dec 18, 2018 10:23 am
by ctbeutel
Are you going to insulate the hatch lid? I did not on my FS12 for now. I may go back and ad in a sheet of foam just to give it a little more insulation. I am interested to see how you finish it up. Be careful with that expanding foam. I did a similar installation with the box and even though I just brushed all around the box it still ran down the sides a bit as I installed it and pushed the box up about a 1/4" and that's with about 100lbs of weight in it. It actually worked out okay because now the water drains to the correct side. Sometimes you get lucky!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Dec 18, 2018 4:41 pm
by OrangeQuest
Jaysen wrote: Tue Dec 18, 2018 9:36 am If you're working on "visible areas" I'd really be slow to consider the angle grinder. Made that mistake.

That said, fairing compound is always something to keep on hand :)
Jaysen you haven't seen my epoxy work before I clean it up! 8O And you should see how well it trims expanding foam down! Right now my fairing compound is going to be wood flour and epoxy. I have to do inventory on what supplies I need besides top paint and primer, then I may add fairing compound to the list.
ctbeutel wrote: Tue Dec 18, 2018 10:23 am Are you going to insulate the hatch lid? I did not on my FS12 for now. I may go back and ad in a sheet of foam just to give it a little more insulation. I am interested to see how you finish it up. Be careful with that expanding foam. I did a similar installation with the box and even though I just brushed all around the box it still ran down the sides a bit as I installed it and pushed the box up about a 1/4" and that's with about 100lbs of weight in it. It actually worked out okay because now the water drains to the correct side. Sometimes you get lucky!
I have used the expanding foam to fill the space on my larger hatch over the live well. It wasn't to insulate it but to add stiffness. The lid didn't have much for the glass to stick to so I put expanding foam in the lid with plastic and weights so it expanded into the corners, sort of. Then glassed it with 6oz cloth and it is stiff enough now to not flex when I stand on it. With the temperatures being cooler right now the foam doesn't expand as much so I have to recalibrate for that. I am hoping the lid is air tight enough for no drafts. If the air has no where to go ice will last longer in the box then.
I nixed the expanding foam to glue the Styrofoam in. I was able to cut close enough that the cold box snuggly fits! I used "booger" tape to hold two of the pieces in that lock the side piece in. Once I seal the seams nothing will be able to move around.
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The box is glued to the hatch frame and then I glassed the box inside and out. It will be removeable so I can access an electrical junction box in the locker if need be. You can just see it in the last picture, the foam on top of it will also be removeable.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Dec 19, 2018 5:29 am
by ctbeutel
Your cold box turned out nice. In hind sight I would have built mine that way. Between the expanding foam, wood flour epoxy and glass you'll need a chain saw to get mine out of the boat! Nice work and attention to detail.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Dec 19, 2018 10:57 am
by Bogieman
Very nice work, OQ! That's going to be sweeeet.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Dec 19, 2018 11:25 am
by OrangeQuest
Bogieman wrote: Wed Dec 19, 2018 10:57 am Very nice work, OQ! That's going to be sweeeet.
Thanks Bogieman! I hope you are spending sometime on your build if nothing but sanding everything!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Dec 20, 2018 12:29 pm
by Bogieman
OrangeQuest wrote: Wed Dec 19, 2018 11:25 am
Bogieman wrote: Wed Dec 19, 2018 10:57 am Very nice work, OQ! That's going to be sweeeet.
Thanks Bogieman! I hope you are spending sometime on your build if nothing but sanding everything!

Haven't worked on it in over a month, but the good news is the coffers are almost replenished. Should be ordering the rest of my wood and maybe some buoyancy foam next month. Have a merry Christmas and Happy New year!!

Bogie

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Dec 20, 2018 1:36 pm
by OrangeQuest
Bogieman wrote: Thu Dec 20, 2018 12:29 pm
Haven't worked on it in over a month, but the good news is the coffers are almost replenished. Should be ordering the rest of my wood and maybe some buoyancy foam next month. Have a merry Christmas and Happy New year!!

Bogie
That is good news Bogieman! Happy Christmas and Merry New year to you also!

Read up on the foam before you get it. It doesn't expand as much in colder climates. In the summer when I was pouring the foam it was expanding like crazy but not much at all now the temps are 70° or below. I have to use more to fill the same size areas.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Dec 22, 2018 11:01 am
by Bogieman
OrangeQuest wrote: Thu Dec 20, 2018 1:36 pm
Bogieman wrote: Thu Dec 20, 2018 12:29 pm
Haven't worked on it in over a month, but the good news is the coffers are almost replenished. Should be ordering the rest of my wood and maybe some buoyancy foam next month. Have a merry Christmas and Happy New year!!

Bogie
That is good news Bogieman! Happy Christmas and Merry New year to you also!

Read up on the foam before you get it. It doesn't expand as much in colder climates. In the summer when I was pouring the foam it was expanding like crazy but not much at all now the temps are 70° or below. I have to use more to fill the same size areas.
Thanks for the tip on the foam. I'll make sure to only work with it on warm days. This morning I was out looking at and admiring my boat and realized the most difficult part of the build is over. The next steps are all what I consider to be fun parts: foam, sole, seats, cabin sides and roof...everything that will really make her look like a boat.

I really like your locker / coolers and I'm thinking of doing the same. The plan is to build a cooler box into the stbd side seat top. It will have to be capable of draining out of a hole in the transom. There will also be a storage box under the port side bench fo extra ropes / gas can etc. Your removable boxes would also allow me to have access to the pushpits which have to be attached to the seats and transom.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Dec 22, 2018 12:04 pm
by OrangeQuest
Bogieman wrote: Sat Dec 22, 2018 11:01 am
Thanks for the tip on the foam. I'll make sure to only work with it on warm days. This morning I was out looking at and admiring my boat and realized the most difficult part of the build is over. The next steps are all what I consider to be fun parts: foam, sole, seats, cabin sides and roof...everything that will really make her look like a boat.

I really like your locker / coolers and I'm thinking of doing the same. The plan is to build a cooler box into the stbd side seat top. It will have to be capable of draining out of a hole in the transom. There will also be a storage box under the port side bench fo extra ropes / gas can etc. Your removable boxes would also allow me to have access to the pushpits which have to be attached to the seats and transom.
I only made one removable box and it may never be removed. It is removable to give me access to the junction box below it. This was going to be my battery box but after getting to the point of putting the battery box together there wasn't enough room and already getting to much weight in the stern.
To remove my box I will have to remove all the screws holding the hatch frame on. Will be using a reusable gasket to seal the frame. My cold box drains into my bilge. You can have yours drain directly to the sole. If I was to do this again I would make the locker the size of a store bought cooler so I just open the hatch and take the cooler out. If I have the room on the foredeck it will be done that way. That way anything in the cooler will come out with the cooler.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Dec 22, 2018 12:27 pm
by OrangeQuest
Friday, when I still had help, we glued the tank well locker deck down. I just finished adding the fillets where the deck meets the frame and the sides of the boat. Made the fillet ever so slightly running so it will ooze down into the gaps and fill in anything the pressure of forcing the putty in doesn't reach. May have to add a little more filler tomorrow.

Just check to see if the fillet sunk down into the cracks any and looks like I filled them pretty good. Hoping just some lite sanding. I will then start working on the cockpit drains again and the wiring.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Dec 23, 2018 5:08 pm
by OrangeQuest
The tank well deck has been attached and doesn't look like it will come loose. Fillets are done and a little more sanding and will be ready to do a little neat epoxy.
4205

Did a little more work on the sole drain screen. Just needs the bottom of the screen glassed and got to figure how I am going to seal it up. May thin the high build primer a little to get it to soak into any unsealed areas. May then paint with the bilge paint.
4204
Before I left the warehouse I over drilled the holes for the transom eyes. Didn't know which angle to do them so I just angled them the same as the side.
Since I finished the tanks I have been considering all the options on what to do for an overflow drain. The bait well will have a higher level than the live well but they will both use the same drain via a tee in the live well. The live well is a little wider than the stringers so I can run the drain out the transom by way of the control valve locker.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Dec 24, 2018 5:20 am
by glossieblack
Just lovely work OQ! 8) Seasons greetings. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Dec 24, 2018 7:42 am
by Jeff
Nice OQ!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Dec 24, 2018 8:42 am
by Bogieman
Yes! Looks great and clean too.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Dec 24, 2018 9:48 am
by OrangeQuest
Thanks GB, Jeff and Bogieman!
Bogie, the reason it looks clean is just after I finished sanding I disconnected the vac hose from the sander and cleaned everything before the picture! :D

I was going to go in and get a little work done during the holidays but I need to work a few problems out....You can't tell, but I'm thinking! :doh:

It looks the same as not thinking!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Dec 24, 2018 10:40 pm
by OrangeQuest
When I over drilled and filled the holes in the front for the bow eye it was very hard to keep the 3/8" holes lined up with the eyebolt so it would easily go in and still be straight. I finally over drilled, taped the bow eye threads where it went through the epoxy to fill the holes back in and get it all straight. When it cured I was able to get the eye bolt out by backing the nuts out. I then had to drill the holes 1/64" bigger to get the tape back out.
Was a very messy complex way to do it. Will come up with a way to do the transom eyes easier and cleaner. I may glue sleeves to the backing plate that will stick into the over size holes. Fill with WFE and when cured just sand the sleeves flush.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Dec 25, 2018 10:33 am
by Dougster
I used the "Dougster" method twice on the bow eye problem. Over drill, fill, drill, try to fit, stomp around and curse. Repeat three or four times and finally it fits. :lol:

Dougster

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Dec 25, 2018 11:04 am
by OrangeQuest
Dougster wrote: Tue Dec 25, 2018 10:33 am I used the "Dougster" method twice on the bow eye problem. Over drill, fill, drill, try to fit, stomp around and curse. Repeat three or four times and finally it fits. :lol:

Dougster
:lol: :lol: :lol: Oh, so it does have a name!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Dec 25, 2018 11:57 am
by Jeff
Nice Dougster & OQ!! Merry Christmas, Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Dec 26, 2018 6:16 am
by OrangeQuest
I have an idea on how I can get these transom eye holes lined up exactly with the transom and still be centered in the oversized holes as I squirt the WFE into them.

4" long 1/4" bolts forced through a piece of 9mm plywood backer piece. Tape on the face of the 9mm so the WFE doesn't stick to it and to keep the WFE in the holes. 5/16th" brass tubing over the bolts a little longer than the transom thickness. Another backer piece of the 9mm plywood with tape on it's face and hole just big enough for the brass tubing to go in. A pair of fender washers and 1/4" nuts.

The bolts threaded into the wood should be ridge enough to hold position and the assembly will be taped to the inside of the transom to align the tubing to the center of the oversize holes. Use icing bag to fill holes with WFE filler. Put spacer backing plate over the bolts and brass tubes with fender washers and nut to squeeze the WFE in any voids that was missed.

Once cured the whole assembly comes off leaving the brass tubing stuck in the WFE. Running a 3/8" drill bit through should break the brass tubing free and drill the hole in the exact spot, at the correct angle. Looks great on paper, if I was to put it on paper! I am felling lucky today! :o

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Dec 26, 2018 10:14 am
by Bogieman
8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Dec 26, 2018 12:39 pm
by Capt UB
This is what I have used for years.

make a templet, bolt it to the drill press... mark or clamp press to .....

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Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Dec 26, 2018 1:13 pm
by OrangeQuest
Not sure how that would work for my application. :doh:

Here is my jig. It can be used to drill the pilot holes for the hole saw, then it is used to align the holes for epoxy. Simple and cost effective.
4214
Taped into place
4215
Outside the transom ready for WFE to get forced into the space. squeezed in more than needed
4216
Outside spacer clamped on and waiting to cure.
4217
I put heavy grease on the bolts and waxed the tubing so I hope I can get everything back out. If this works I just need to drill the tubing out and it should be in perfect alignment for the stern eye. Only had enough tubing to do one side. Besides if, for some reason this doesn't work, only one side to fix.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Dec 26, 2018 2:53 pm
by Capt UB
You clamp or screw the drill press plate to the area you want to drill a hole.

Drill the oversized hole.

Do not remove drill press plate.

Fill hole with epoxy/mix.

Drill the new smaller hole.

Remove drill press plate.

I have don this a million times, change plates, deck fittings, rail fittings, rudder gudgeons and thru hull fittings.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Dec 26, 2018 3:09 pm
by Capt UB
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https://www.christinedemerchant.com/drill-guide.html

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Dec 26, 2018 3:39 pm
by OrangeQuest
Mine was made from scrap and stuff I already had on hand, cost $.00. If it works I can do a lot of oversize holes in a single day and they all be perfect fits. I am going to replace the brass tubing with soda straws so more cost effective.

Yours you drill extra holes to mount the drill press, drill hole and fill one day, drill to size the next day, remove drill press and move it to the next hole drilling even more holes to hold drill press, drill oversize hole, fill and remove the next day. 2 days per hole and lots of holes that have to be filled when done.

I am going to be putting 4 same size cleats on my gunnels which will require drilling 8 holes. I can do all of them in the same day and just have to wait for epoxy to cure to drill correct size hole the next day. Yours would take 8 days and that's only if you clamp the drill press.

I like simple over complex and expensive.

I can also stack all eight pieces of the rigs on top of each other and use my drill press to drill all the holes so all the rig holes line up before I every drill into my boat.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Dec 26, 2018 3:42 pm
by Jaysen
I must be doing something wrong... Need a 1/4" bolt hole... drill it 3/8", fill with epoxy, let cure. Use some rubber cement or I guess 5200 to hold thingy in place over cured holes... run 1/4" bit though thingy and put bolts in.

Am I doing something wrong?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Dec 26, 2018 3:58 pm
by OrangeQuest
Jaysen wrote: Wed Dec 26, 2018 3:42 pm I must be doing something wrong... Need a 1/4" bolt hole... drill it 3/8", fill with epoxy, let cure. Use some rubber cement or I guess 5200 to hold thingy in place over cured holes... run 1/4" bit though thingy and put bolts in.

Am I doing something wrong?
I am drilling holes for my stern eyes. They are 2" 3/8" U-bolts. The over drill needs to be 3/4" oversize. Then drill 3/8" after overfill is cure to the same exact angle. If angle is off or the holes are not exact spot the U-bolt doesn't go in. My jig lets me drill the pilot holes for the 3/4" hole saw. I put the 1/4" in the backer plywood and tape that to the inside of the transom and it is centered in the over size holes. The brass sleeves are so I can pull the bolts back out when the epoxy is cured and the sleeves will be pilot holes for the 3/8" drill to follow. When done will have perfect fit and correct angle. Nice thing is with a jig you get quick, repeatable results.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Dec 26, 2018 5:09 pm
by Jaysen
Are you sure you need to go that big on the hole? Inthat it was 1/8” larger. At the size you’re making will there be any actual tea some material captured?

Maybe I’m missing something in the mechanics of through-bolting with composite construction.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Dec 26, 2018 6:04 pm
by OrangeQuest
All of my eye bolts are using backing plates to help with any loads applied to them. Besides, I thought epoxy bonds better to wood then the wood itself does and it is going through more than an inch of plywood.
For all my hatch frames I am using #8 screws to hold them in. I over drilled with a 1/4" and then re-drilled for the #8 screw. The plastic frames have no real stress on them getting pulled out but I think the plastic would break before the screws would let go. All of my plastic through fitting I have been over drilling only slightly and then just coating with several coats of neat epoxy with drum sanding between to seal the wood. Where both sides have been painted I used 4200 to seal the fitting in. Still give a submerged waterproof seal but easier to remove if needed and is more flexible.

I am using 3/8" U-bolts in the stern for the size of the bolt, not the strength, they are overkill for a 14' boat. One of them is rated to handle more than the weight of the boat. 1/4" and 5/16" U-bolts looked to skinny IMO.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Dec 26, 2018 7:58 pm
by OrangeQuest
Jaysen wrote: Wed Dec 26, 2018 5:09 pm Are you sure you need to go that big on the hole? Inthat it was 1/8” larger. At the size you’re making will there be any actual tea some material captured?

Maybe I’m missing something in the mechanics of through-bolting with composite construction.
To answer your question, if I understand it, I can't find anything that addresses your question. But my thoughts are, I am not an engineer, that the epoxy is stronger than the wood and the wood would not break at the wood epoxy bond but maybe not far from it. But would it be stronger or weaker than just drilling a hole in the wood and using just a washer? I would go with it being stronger with a larger oversize hole filled with epoxy because more bonding surface. To go with the 1.5 times the size of the fastener it would be over drilled to 5/8" to 9/16". I think that would hold true with something like a deck cleat that be pulled 90 degrees of the deck. Smaller oversize hole would offer less strength than a smaller one. I can still use a 1/4" or even a #10 through bolt but over drill to a 1/2" size then the wood would not give as much as a 3/8" oversize hole. Spreading the force over more area.

Another way I can explain it is when using a tree as an anchor when hoisting a heavy load you wrap a heavy thick choker strap around the tree so your thinner cable doesn't dig into the tree. It spreads the force over a larger area. In wood working you use joints that spread the gluing surface over larger area of the wood to make it a stronger joint. Lap joint verses butt joint.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Dec 26, 2018 8:28 pm
by Jaysen
Let me state it more like this...

The epoxy "plug" is stronger than the wood or glass. This is why you see wood tear out when you "stress to fail" an epoxy joint (true of most glues actually). But if you DO have a fail at the epoxy/wood junction it will be OUTSIDE your clamping area without a plate that extends beyond the joint. By reducing the hole size or adding a backing plate you get the compression resistance of the epoxy "plug" but ensure the plug does not separate from the composite structure. The key, from all the reading I've done on material design, is to use plates to ensure you are distributing load ACROSS the joint to protect against full separation/pull out. Plates and be a properly sized washer, plywood, steel, or anything that extends beyond the face of the plug and can withstand the expected loads.

Make sense?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Dec 26, 2018 9:26 pm
by OrangeQuest
Yes.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Dec 27, 2018 9:57 am
by OrangeQuest
Ok. Took the bolts off the jig this morning and not all went as planned but very close. I forgot I had the brass sleeves going into the wood on the outside of the jig. Took a little more than a tap to get it loose. Wasn't till I cut it off with the Multi-tool that I remembered but last time with the brass anyway. The brass drilled right out, as was expected.
4218
I did not fill the voids completely but I may have caused this yesterday when I though it should be set enough to remove the plywood but it pulled the WFE out of the void some so when doing the second U-bolt filled it all in.
4219
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Second U-bolt is glued up and curing. I used the soda straws this time around split so it would fit the 1/4" bolts. I also used tape to seal the seam of the straw so when I pull the bolts out the straw and tape leave a perfect lined up pilot holes to drill out to 3/8". I did not cap the outside of the transom this time so I can monitor the WFE

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Dec 28, 2018 7:53 am
by OrangeQuest
Ok, the slight modifications to the jig worked nicely. Pulled the jig off and other than sanding excessive WFE off both sides the pilot holes worked great. Both stern eyes have mounting holes. Sucks I already painted the lockers but that's ok just needs a little touch up. Another jig for the pegboard!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Dec 28, 2018 11:38 am
by Jeff
Good work OQ!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jan 03, 2019 8:59 am
by OrangeQuest
It has been slow on my build since all the major things are done in the stern I moved to the bow now. Don't know how long my sole will be till I know where the console/foredeck will end. This morning I measured and cut a template that puts the foredeck being 50" long. I also added a little rise in the center of the template so water will move to the edges. The picture is a little blurry ( :doh: it was set to auto focus but I may have moved) You can just make out that the front is also dropped a little below the sheer. Still tossing around how that is going to be.
4225
I still have to put the dimensions of the foredeck on the ground with the mocked up console butted up to it and see if my butt hits the console when I bend over and still clear the anchor locker hatch. If this works then I will have more than a 7' cockpit on each side of the console! Only down side is this frame is only 12" from the front frame ( frame "A" ?) But gives me two very deep lockers!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jan 05, 2019 11:17 am
by Bogieman
You're getting closer and closer OQ! In the water by springtime / early summer?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jan 05, 2019 12:21 pm
by OrangeQuest
Bogieman wrote: Sat Jan 05, 2019 11:17 am You're getting closer and closer OQ! In the water by springtime / early summer?
Like a few other builders I have a very limited budget. Few more months of buying anchors and supplies and then I will I need to start saving for the VHF, plotter/FF, steering, control cables and the gauges for the console. I think it will be easier to dry fit everything into the console before mounting it. Once those big buys are finished I will start saving for the motor. So there are no plans for a splash date in 2019.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jan 05, 2019 12:38 pm
by Bogieman
OrangeQuest wrote: Sat Jan 05, 2019 12:21 pm
Bogieman wrote: Sat Jan 05, 2019 11:17 am You're getting closer and closer OQ! In the water by springtime / early summer?
Like a few other builders I have a very limited budget. Few more months of buying anchors and supplies and then I will I need to start saving for the VHF, plotter/FF, steering, control cables and the gauges for the console. I think it will be easier to dry fit everything into the console before mounting it. Once those big buys are finished I will start saving for the motor. So there are no plans for a splash date in 2019.
We're both in the same boat, OQ! All the pieces of my boat will be together by summer, but then there's paint, rigging, mast, sail, motor, trailer and some things you mentioned too. Looks like 2020 will work for both of us.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jan 06, 2019 9:08 pm
by OrangeQuest
So I had the boat outside in the sunshine today and traded the bunks out. I have our utility trailer repaired and needed the longer bunks for it. Anyway, I filled the livewell up and was playing with the pump and valves. I am a little concerned with the automatic feature of the V-3 valve. The way I understand it when on "auto" the pickup submerged and it feed water through the system. Boat comes on plane, pickup comes out of the water it recirculates the water. But what I am getting is with no water at the pick up it sucks air and very little water flows. Even getting water pulses out the pickup. "Recirc" it does great. Turn the pump off and switch to "drain" and it really drains. There was no water left in the tanks and when I switch from tank to tank any water trapped in the hoses drained too. I may take it apart to see if the valve has a bad check valve.

Next sunny day I may push it outside again and test the bilge pumps and see how well the garboard drain works. Next few weeks I will be think how the forward comparts will be. Funny how big the boats seems working on it all cramped in the warehouse under a rack. Looking at it in the parking lot doesn't look so big.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jan 07, 2019 12:44 am
by Fuzz
First time you have it off shore and the wind picks up it will shrink down to a bathtub toy :help:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jan 07, 2019 5:40 am
by OrangeQuest
8O

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jan 07, 2019 9:19 am
by Bogieman
Fuzz wrote: Mon Jan 07, 2019 12:44 am First time you have it off shore and the wind picks up it will shrink down to a bathtub toy :help:
:lol: Even an aircraft carrier can feel too small in bad seas. We ran into a vicious storm in the Med once and all 1,047 feet of her took a pounding. By the time it was over our starboard bow catwalk (80 ft above the water line) had been ripped loose and was crinkled up like a snuffed out cigarette.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jan 07, 2019 10:10 am
by OrangeQuest
Our 15.5 foot motorized canoe has seen rough water a few times, not so bad we had damage to the catwalks ( :wink: ) but had water coming in from all sides. Both times was with the same guy in the front and if the bow was hit on the port side he would lean to starboard to keep from getting wet. Not only was I trying to keep from getting swapped but had to keep him from flipping the boat.

Even solo in my kayak I have been caught a few times in rouge storms and that is some of the reasoning behind my drain/bilge set ups and why I want lockers and secure places for everything onboard. Also the VHF/weather radio to keep undated on changing weather conditions along the coastal waters.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jan 07, 2019 7:25 pm
by OrangeQuest
Even though I want to stow the anchor in the bow roller most the time I will still have an anchor locker that will stow other anchors. But as I was looking for ideas on how to stow anchors I ran into a few ideas that I like. I like this for it is very simple, easy to use and make.
4237

I also like the way this slot holds the anchor and the anchor line and chain goes below it. What sparked my interest is the way the ladder is hidden. This concept gives me even more ideas.
4238

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jan 07, 2019 8:49 pm
by Bogieman
Nice!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jan 08, 2019 7:20 am
by Jeff
Both good options OQ!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jan 08, 2019 9:04 am
by OrangeQuest
Thanks Bogieman and Jeff!

I like the slot for the anchor but I was thinking it would be a way to hide/stow the ladder. Mounted on a piece of wood the side of the ladder that pulls up and then hinged to lay flat on the deck. Then the ladder is flipped outward to go over the bow of the boat. Doesn't have to be dead center but close enough to keep the boat from listing to much when someone is on the ladder.

When I had my bigger pleasure boat the ladder was at the stern. It made it easy for the kids/adults to step on the outdrive then the ladder to get in the boat. Because of the ladder's location the motor had to be shut off to use it. There was to much freeboard to get in the boat any other way. If it is on the foredeck area the motor doesn't have to be shut down so could still maintain control of the boat. When beaching a boat you exit and enter the boat off the bow or you wade out in the water far enough to turn the boat around and climb in through the stern but risk wind or waves pushing the boat back to the shore before the motor can be started and used to get to deeper water. Swimmer/paddler recovery would be easier and more control of positioning of the boat if done away from the prop. Those are two good reasons for the ladder to not be at the transom.

But like Capt. UB warned me of mounting the ladder before the boat is in the water so I can see how far the ladder will extend into the water is a concern. But If it is to shallow I could always extend it with a rope rung at the bottom. To climb the ladder you have to "hug" close to it anyway and stay as vertical as possible.

But it will only be installed if I have the space for it. Still have a 6 gallon fuel tank, battery and anchor locker to figure out. It is more than 20" from the foredeck to the bottom of the hull. The weight of both the tank and the battery I want to keep as deep in the hull as possible and don't want to bury them below other things. A lot of things to work out in the foredeck area. :doh:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jan 08, 2019 9:14 am
by Bogieman
Yes, you sure have a lot of things worked into your build. Amazing what can be done to a small boat.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jan 08, 2019 9:31 am
by Capt UB
You keep adding things.... you will not need a ladder to get in!! :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jan 08, 2019 9:42 am
by Bogieman
Capt UB wrote: Tue Jan 08, 2019 9:31 am You keep adding things.... you will not need a ladder to get in!! :lol:
:lol: Good one, Capt. UB!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jan 08, 2019 11:29 am
by OrangeQuest
Capt UB wrote: Tue Jan 08, 2019 9:31 am You keep adding things.... you will not need a ladder to get in!! :lol:
Maybe to climb down to it on the bottom?

I also plan to add helium to all the watertight compartments! Which is everything under the sole. :D I will have to use an anchor to keep it on the water! :wink:


I have been thinking about that. I can still pick the aft end of the boat up with no problem. But I can tell there is more weight than when I got the hull. The only "extra weight" is the 5 hatches, the 6mm plywood used to complete the bottom, port and starboard sides of the tank wells, five hatches, the plumbing for the wells and 3 small pumps. I moved the middle bench aft seat frame to be the front of the tank wells. And the transom knees are bigger but I did cut the stringers down to the 3" height. There are 3 small frames to reach the midship point of the boat. Extra weight will be the cleats for the sole and the sole itself. Then small side ribs/frames to support the sides and the gunwale. The midship seat forward frame moves closer to the forward frame and then the extra wood for the console and steps on the side of it. Oh, and let's not forget I used 12oz tape instead of 6oz that is called for to tape the stringers, seams and frames. I also ran 12oz cloth the whole inside the hull. And then there is the extra plywood sheets to raise the transom back up to a 20" shaft and reinforcing of the transom for a 25hp motor. 8O I think I am starting to see your point. :wink:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jan 08, 2019 12:54 pm
by Bogieman
8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jan 09, 2019 9:02 pm
by OrangeQuest
So I was just playing around with the boat today looking for inspiration on how I want the bow. Connected a 12V battery to the live well light while it was still dark in the warehouse. I think that looks 8)
4266

Rest of the day was spent playing with ideas on how to get the most out of the bow lay out. Came up with a little different idea then any I have had so far. Still toying with it though. The more I think about it the more I am liking it. I may have a small foredeck or a large breast hook. Then a lower deck to kneel on to work the bow anchor. Foredeck would be just big enough for the Samson post and anchor locker. Like I said, still toying with the idea. Waiting to get the anchor.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jan 09, 2019 9:22 pm
by Bogieman
Yes, that does look 8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jan 13, 2019 3:02 am
by glossieblack
OrangeQuest wrote: Wed Jan 09, 2019 9:02 pm Rest of the day was spent playing with ideas on how to get the most out of the bow lay out. Came up with a little different idea then any I have had so far. Still toying with it though. ......
The best of times ..... :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jan 13, 2019 6:19 am
by OrangeQuest
Yes it is Glossieblack! Yes it is! :)



I was finishing up on routing the wiring for the stern yesterday and had tried a few different ways of chasing the wires through. Finally grabbed some heavy cord from when I worked in a bindery and sucked the cord through with the wet/dry vac! Was super easy!! So That is done! May start connecting some of them together. Want to keep the wires for the little light tucked away from sight and less chance of something snagging on them.

Also picked up a nice piece of cedar board that I cut down for more cleats. Trying to come up with enough stuff to coat with epoxy so I can mix a small batch but this morning the temps dropped into the mid 40s.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jan 13, 2019 10:49 am
by OrangeQuest
It is going to be to cold all of this week to risk blush so no epoxy work this week again. But that gives me a lot of time to think, I have tried this a few times and not much has happened! 8O When searching for anchor locker ideas last week I seen a few boats that had a small area to kneel at the bow to access the anchor. I thought that in rough seas trying to balance on a pitching deck, or even someone else moving around at the same time, would be pretty hard and one hand would be needed to hang on. So having an area to kneel to access the anchor or any other duties at the bow would be easier and safer. So I started making a few templates to see if I like the idea and if it makes things easier like I stated.
4283
4284

With this set up I have room to get around the console, the console will be smaller than the test one, the ledge is enough to comfortably kneel and still access the tip of the bow. I still need to get the roller and anchor before deciding if I like it enough to make it work. It will be deep enough to secure a group 24 series battery, only thing left is where the fuel tank will go.

Comments welcome,
OQ

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jan 13, 2019 11:24 am
by Capt UB

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jan 13, 2019 12:33 pm
by Dougster
I just had this thought. Given how effective those pricey gps trolling motors with anchor lock are, maybe an anchor in a fishing boat isn't as useful as it use to be anymore. Of course it's necessary for long stops and emergencies, but otherwise not used when just fishing. I know the motorguide Riptide in my SK14 is fantastic. I'd never drop an anchor to fish a spot, just hit anchor lock on the remote. That means the anchor wouldn't have to be as handy and wouldn't be monted on a bow roller in the way of the trolling motor. 'Course they cost too much and then need a dang heavy battery or two. Still the 55 lb one battery motorguide would handle an FS14 nicely I think. Maybe someday?

Dougster

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jan 14, 2019 9:42 am
by OrangeQuest
Something like this is what I am thinking.

4285
Enough room to get between the console and foredeck. Deck that is big enough for the Samson Post and the anchor roller plus the anchor locker hatch, which could be behind or side of the deck hardware. The anchor locker needs to be big enough to stow anchors, all ground tackle, extra lines, spare shackles and tools for anchor assembly and shackle replacement. Hoping for enough space for fender locker also. I could do a solid deck from the frame to the bow wide enough and strong enough to mount the roller and post. Then large hatches port and starboard of that. The bench would store the battery, spare parts, tools and additional safety gear. The frame would have a vertical hatch to slide the fuel tank into and under the foredeck. The fuel storage will be built to USCG standards for inboard powered boats but will be a portable tank...I think. The more I think about it the more I am liking this game plan.

Dougster, Short answer on using a trolling motor to hold the boat, not going to happen. One of the few things that will not be replaced on my boat will be anchors. I may replace with different anchors but the boat will always have them. To me it is part of being a safe boater. Besides I am already pushing the weight limits of the boat! 8O

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jan 14, 2019 9:47 am
by Capt UB
Capt UB wrote: Sun Jan 13, 2019 11:24 am Take a look at this Google search,
https://www.google.com/search?q=buildin ... HPBSCG_dDM


Like some of these.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jan 14, 2019 10:26 am
by Dougster
I like all those anchor storage pics. Leaves the bow open and still easy to get to anchor when wanted and room for a trolling motor if wanted. Sure do agree one needs an anchor on board, for safety if nothing else. Trolling motor will hold 90+% of the time, but the time it failed I'd be upwind of the jetties or something!

Says Murphy's a friend of mine Dougster

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jan 14, 2019 10:56 am
by OrangeQuest
Capt UB wrote: Mon Jan 14, 2019 9:47 am
Capt UB wrote: Sun Jan 13, 2019 11:24 am Take a look at this Google search,
https://www.google.com/search?q=buildin ... HPBSCG_dDM


Like some of these.
I like the way the anchors are stored, but would need to be big enough to store two anchors with the complete tackle for each. Then extra stuff as well. I don't want a locker that everything is piled up on top of each other and you have to move stuff around to get to what you are looking for. I still have not ruled out an electric winch either. If the locker were on each side of the foredeck and not in the center I think it would be easier access to the gear. A slot looks neat but when I pull the rode in I would like it to just fall into the locker. If I am in a hurry I don't want to have to "aim" to hit a narrow slot. I am ok with the line just falling into the bottom of the locker as long as there is nothing for it to get snagged on coming in or out.

If I need to change anchors I just break the shackle loose and trade them out reusing the chain and line. All ground tackle will use shackles at attachment points.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jan 14, 2019 10:57 am
by OrangeQuest
Dougster wrote: Mon Jan 14, 2019 10:26 am I like all those anchor storage pics. Leaves the bow open and still easy to get to anchor when wanted and room for a trolling motor if wanted. Sure do agree one needs an anchor on board, for safety if nothing else. Trolling motor will hold 90+% of the time, but the time it failed I'd be upwind of the jetties or something!

Says Murphy's a friend of mine Dougster
:lol: :lol: :lol:

Murphy and I are really close too, we share a beer from time to time! :wink:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jan 14, 2019 11:46 am
by ctbeutel
[/quote]

I like the way the anchors are stored, but would need to be big enough to store two anchors with the complete tackle for each. Then extra stuff as well. I don't want a locker that everything is piled up on top of each other and you have to move stuff around to get to what you are looking for. I still have not ruled out an electric winch either. If the locker were on each side of the foredeck and not in the center I think it would be easier access to the gear. A slot looks neat but when I pull the rode in I would like it to just fall into the locker. If I am in a hurry I don't want to have to "aim" to hit a narrow slot. I am ok with the line just falling into the bottom of the locker as long as there is nothing for it to get snagged on coming in or out.

If I need to change anchors I just break the shackle loose and trade them out reusing the chain and line. All ground tackle will use shackles at attachment points.
[/quote]

QQ, you are going to need to stretch that boat to 17ft to fit all that! I can't wait to see it come together.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jan 14, 2019 1:43 pm
by OrangeQuest
ctbeutel wrote: Mon Jan 14, 2019 11:46 am
QQ, you are going to need to stretch that boat to 17ft to fit all that! I can't wait to see it come together.
You are going to think this is crazy but if I do the foredeck this way the cockpit from aft deck to foredeck will be almost 8 feet long. Nothing but the console and two removable pedestal chairs down the center.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jan 15, 2019 2:15 pm
by OrangeQuest
I am hosting a meet up for our paddler group this weekend and ran across this old picture of my dear friend (the boat) and I out fishing just past the breakers in the gulf with my oldest brother and his wife, she snapped the picture. Waves may have been 2 -3 feet.
4304
The wet suit means I was practicing self recovery in deep water, but we are now fishing just past the breakers at Surfside Beach. This picture is a good example why I loved the boat so much. If I was fishing in the bay on the other side of where we are at and a storm sneaks up on me I would be fighting the wind blown waves. If I took an angle to the waves and stayed down in the trough as long as possible I would dodge most the wind and take a quick turn at the last minute to turn into the wave as they reach me. It was almost always a wet ride but for an old guy paddling it, over loaded with to much gear, and only half a working heart it could get moving pretty good. Some of you sailors can relate to this but every time I would be paddling across the bay it was a race to get back to the take out location with the old guy always drinking a beer first!

That boat became my guide boat when I joined the kayak company and we rescued a lot of people with it. I took most of it's fishing gear off and the rudder, only needed it in open water, but it was beat to hell on all the rocks and concrete on the bayou. The employees hated carrying it so I did it most the time. They finally destroyed the hull by strapping it to the trailer right side up crushing the bottom of the hull. Tried everything to fix it but never could so I cut it half and used it to repair other boats. It is a Hobie Quest, fisherman edition. They don't use that orange color anymore.
:cry:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jan 15, 2019 2:23 pm
by Capt UB
Where's the beer cooler?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jan 15, 2019 3:38 pm
by OrangeQuest
See the little red, now pink, soft sided cooler between me and the net? It would hold 6 but was always stocked with 4 beer and two frozen water bottles to keep things cold. If I ran out I would head in and not go back out for the rest of the day. My days of fishing would start before daylight and end about noon most the time. I would normally bring back a few empty and a few full.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jan 15, 2019 3:42 pm
by Jaysen
OrangeQuest wrote: Tue Jan 15, 2019 3:38 pm See the little red, now pink, soft sided cooler between me and the net? It would hold 6 but was always stocked with 4 beer and two frozen water bottles to keep things cold. If I ran out I would head in and not go back out for the rest of the day. My days of fishing would start before daylight and end about noon most the time. I would normally bring back a few empty and a few full.
So you have to go in and refill after breakfast?

Oh wait... that's me and fuzz.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jan 15, 2019 4:20 pm
by Bogieman
Good stuff, OQ!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jan 15, 2019 6:30 pm
by OrangeQuest
Jaysen wrote: Tue Jan 15, 2019 3:42 pm
OrangeQuest wrote: Tue Jan 15, 2019 3:38 pm See the little red, now pink, soft sided cooler between me and the net? It would hold 6 but was always stocked with 4 beer and two frozen water bottles to keep things cold. If I ran out I would head in and not go back out for the rest of the day. My days of fishing would start before daylight and end about noon most the time. I would normally bring back a few empty and a few full.
So you have to go in and refill after breakfast?

Oh wait... that's me and fuzz.
:lol: :lol:
Not exactly. There was a grill/bait shop at the launch and a lot of the "anglers" would come in and grab a cold beer and a burger. We would all talk about the morning action. Then I would go pack my gear up and head home. Ike wiped the bait shop out and they never rebuilt it and the launch is not the same. It was after Ike hit that I moved back to Houston.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jan 16, 2019 8:44 am
by OrangeQuest
Got to the warehouse this morning and measured and cut the already cut plywood down to the size of the new foredeck. If I go with this plan I will have a 12" bench to use for deck work and anchoring operations. Not much surface area for lockers if I want to keep the center of the deck solid. Option 1
4237
The FX-7 stocks are 19" tip to tip and the shank is 24" So a box bigger than that for the bigger anchor and the G-5 can use a box of the same size or smaller. They slide in and out of frame "A" like drawers. Not my favorite game plan. Option 2 be to put hatches port and starboard of the center of the deck and hang the working anchor by the stocks like this but running parallel to the boat.
4285

The other anchor disassembled and stowed in a locker in the forward bench with the extra ground tackle. Battery can still fit in the center of the bench, fuel tank under the console and still have space for a removable cooler.

I really like option two!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jan 16, 2019 11:07 am
by Eric1
Option 2 is the way to go I think.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jan 16, 2019 4:57 pm
by Bogieman
Yes, what Eric said.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jan 16, 2019 5:19 pm
by OrangeQuest
I do like option 2 better than option 1.
I played with it some more today and I like the smaller foredeck and bench. Lockers built into the deck.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jan 17, 2019 7:07 am
by Capt UB
Eric1
Option 2 is the way to go I think.

Bogieman
Yes, what Eric said.

Yes, what they said...

You may need to add a bit of rubber inside to stop any banging from the shank moving around. This setup is really nice and you should have the room,

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jan 17, 2019 7:44 am
by OrangeQuest
I will line it with EVA foam. It is the same stuff that SeaDek uses but doesn't have the EP, I think. It's the same thing they use for yoga mats and foam rubber beer cozies. Art supplies sale it for art projects and it is very cheap. I think an 18"X12"X 1/8" is a buck. It is what I am using for a foam gasket for my removable cooler. Spray glue holds it together if you have to stack it and it comes in the same color as the bilge paint I am using for the lockers.

It is all still in the experimental stages. Here is a picture of a crappy anchor laid on the deck to get an idea of the anchor set up. The roller that I like is make to hold a Danforth style anchor and under $100.00. Just need to work out how to latch the anchor down when traveling.
4321

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jan 17, 2019 4:24 pm
by Bogieman
8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jan 18, 2019 5:35 am
by glossieblack
Your foredeck setup is heading the same way as Skinnydip's. Practical as ..... :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jan 18, 2019 6:24 am
by OrangeQuest
glossieblack wrote: Fri Jan 18, 2019 5:35 am Your foredeck setup is heading the same way as Skinnydip's. Practical as ..... :D
Skinnydip may have been where I was inspired! :) But I have spent countless hours going over pictures and drawings on how to rig an anchor.

A bigger boat I had when I was younger had no place to stow anchors. It had two Danforth of the same size and both were complete setups but no place to stow them where it wasn't a mess. They stowed under a seat beside the engine cover at the stern. I bundled the lines and chains on each to make it a lot easier to grab one anchor or the other, but getting an anchor ready to deploy was a whole operation in itself. Once everything was unbundled and ready I then had to take it all the way up to the bow to deploy with no real place to tie off, no place for the unused rode. Not very functional. My bigger boat had a walk through windshield with a big bow deck, so big my ex would use it to sun bath. Even being so big a wave hit the boat at the wrong time would cause me to stumble. I just can't see standing on a small deck, trying to handle an anchor. Seems a high risk of MOB. Having a place to kneel behind the deck just makes more sense to me. And I don't make sense to often! :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jan 18, 2019 8:49 pm
by OrangeQuest
4332
Right after I took this picture I screwed a cleat to the template frame and cut some more scrap to form a bench top. Laid a moving pad over the bench top and called my office manager to test the locker. I had her climb up in the boat and kneel on the bench to pull in the rode. I don't have the roller yet so I screwed the fairlead down so it would stay put as she pulled the line in. She has never pulled in a line but she never missed the opening. Using the dimensions of the bigger FX7 anchor for a shank and stock I made a wooden mock up of the anchor and it will easily fit in the locker. More mocking up but this looks like it will be the game plan!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jan 19, 2019 12:56 pm
by Bogieman
Ohhh that's nice. 8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jan 19, 2019 4:51 pm
by Jeff
Really well done OQ!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jan 19, 2019 5:40 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thank you Bogieman and thank you Jeff. It is still a work in progress.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jan 19, 2019 6:06 pm
by Aripeka Angler
Nice looking work. 8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jan 20, 2019 9:19 am
by OrangeQuest
Aripeka Angler wrote: Sat Jan 19, 2019 6:06 pm Nice looking work. 8)
Thank you Richard, it feels really good when I get positive feedback from the experts in the building community. But also encourage feedback and advice when I stray to far off course too! 8O

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jan 20, 2019 10:30 am
by OrangeQuest
The temps dropped to the mid 30s today. even though the sun is out I do not like my hands getting cold, my hands are cold. And now my feet are starting to get cold! This sucks, I am going home.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jan 20, 2019 12:37 pm
by Capt UB
Temps dropped here too! Windy as hell!!

Did you find an OB yet?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jan 20, 2019 4:56 pm
by OrangeQuest
Brrr! :? It is chilly!
No, but I am not looking yet. When it is time I will be getting one from that Online outboards.com company. Still need a sheet or two of plywood, the anchors, steer control with cables and then shift cables to get. I can build the console keeping the instrument panel out till I get the radio, gps/ff, steering control and gauges. Can get an OEM Suzuki tach with warning lights built in so I made a place for it.
3848

Will also put an hour meter just below the steering assembly. The panel maybe my only bright work too. But that will not go on till the last. Few more months of buying odds and ends and then work on the funds for a motor.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jan 23, 2019 4:51 pm
by OrangeQuest
Well, since I had templates for the new location of the foredeck I spent the day cutting and test fitting the frame, deck, forward bench deck and a frame that divided the fender locker from the anchor locker. They are all ready for warmer weather to get glass covered. As far as the deck hatches I don't think I need any kind of a gutter system as long as the hatches are sealed from water going directly down into them. I am thinking a raised lip with and oversize hatch That seals on the top of the lip. The hatches will be the only place you can step if entering or exiting the boat at the bow. Thinking also a short wall built into the deck that will deflect water away from the opening and act as the hatch stop when it is opened.

No pictures, it would be the same as I already have posted but with marine plywood instead of recycled ply and fitting a little better. :)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jan 24, 2019 7:13 am
by Capt UB
OrangeQuest wrote: Wed Jan 23, 2019 4:51 pm Well, since I had templates for the new location of the foredeck I spent the day cutting and test fitting the frame, deck, forward bench deck and a frame that divided the fender locker from the anchor locker. They are all ready for warmer weather to get glass covered. As far as the deck hatches I don't think I need any kind of a gutter system as long as the hatches are sealed from water going directly down into them. I am thinking a raised lip with and oversize hatch That seals on the top of the lip. The hatches will be the only place you can step if entering or exiting the boat at the bow. Thinking also a short wall built into the deck that will deflect water away from the opening and act as the hatch stop when it is opened.

No pictures, it would be the same as I already have posted but with marine plywood instead of recycled ply and fitting a little better. :)

Sounds like a good plan. Lots of hatches being made on this forum. Not sure If I'm up for that challenge of making my own hatches.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jan 24, 2019 7:25 am
by glossieblack
OrangeQuest wrote: Wed Jan 23, 2019 4:51 pm I am thinking a raised lip with and oversize hatch That seals on the top of the lip.
If I'm understanding it, the deck opening would have an upturned lip around its perimeter, and the hatch a downturned edge lip that snugged down outside and beside the deck lip, like a shoe box top fits down over a shoe box?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jan 24, 2019 8:23 am
by OrangeQuest
glossieblack wrote: Thu Jan 24, 2019 7:25 am
OrangeQuest wrote: Wed Jan 23, 2019 4:51 pm I am thinking a raised lip with and oversize hatch That seals on the top of the lip.
If I'm understanding it, the deck opening would have an upturned lip around its perimeter, and the hatch a downturned edge lip that snugged down outside and beside the deck lip, like a shoe box top fits down over a shoe box?
More like a compression seal. A ridge on the hatch opening and the gasket is on the hatch. The gasket fits snug to the deck but the sharpness of the ridge provides a tighter seal. Not worried to much on spray or a driving rain even getting a little past but a crashing wave coming over the bow I would like a deflector wall to keep direct impact to a minimum. Don't see needing a water tight seal on a anchor locker or a fender locker. :doh:

The new design for the bow has opened up a whole new can of worms though. The game plan was to route steering and motor control cables down the inside of the console, under the step on the side of the console then come up and under the gunwale and then through the aft anchor locker to be inline with the front of the Motor. That is not possible now due to no side steps and the fuel tank was going to go under the console. This was all thought of during the shower and taking the time to think about the next steps. So, back to the drawing board and all production has came to full stop!
8O :doh: :oops:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jan 24, 2019 9:56 am
by OrangeQuest
After using a 2" section of PVC pipe I don't have to many options. One option that keeps popping into my head is fly by wire set up. Since I have a little back ground in radio controlled stuff I already have a R/C radio that could work as the steering, throttle and shift controls. The transmitter is already operated on 12 volts. It is 3 channels which is what I would need. I can get 1/4 scale servos that should be more than strong enough to move the shifter and throttle the only complex thing would be steering. Hydraulic maybe? The crazy stuff I get myself into! :doh:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jan 24, 2019 11:59 am
by Rtorres2411
Sounds way to cool, a radio controlled FS14 8). If you use hydraulic steering it might work, look into the high torque servos.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jan 24, 2019 12:37 pm
by OrangeQuest
Was thinking something like this for steering. Seems a little slow on the travel though, about 14 seconds from stop to stop.
https://www.surpluscenter.com/Brands/Gl ... 1577-8.axd

I could use a short stroke actuator and use leverage to speed up the travel.
I could make a control box with the steering, throttle and shift controls all in the same box with the cables coming out of the box and at the motor everything connects up the same. Since I am more or less dreaming it could also control trim/tilt and start. So I could back the boat down the ramp, fire up the motor and take it off the trailer without getting out of the tow vehicle. Park my vehicle and the boat would then pick me up at the dock.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jan 24, 2019 2:53 pm
by Capt UB
OrangeQuest wrote: Thu Jan 24, 2019 12:37 pm Was thinking something like this for steering. Seems a little slow on the travel though, about 14 seconds from stop to stop.
https://www.surpluscenter.com/Brands/Gl ... 1577-8.axd

I could use a short stroke actuator and use leverage to speed up the travel.
I could make a control box with the steering, throttle and shift controls all in the same box with the cables coming out of the box and at the motor everything connects up the same. Since I am more or less dreaming it could also control trim/tilt and start. So I could back the boat down the ramp, fire up the motor and take it off the trailer without getting out of the tow vehicle. Park my vehicle and the boat would then pick me up at the dock.


Stop you are killing me!!!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jan 24, 2019 3:57 pm
by piperdown
That would be cool! Although you'd better make sure only you or fellow RC enthusiasts drive it (ask me how I know :help: )

Better find something listed as water proof too. Not sure I'd take a chance on just water resistant, but that's just me.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jan 24, 2019 4:56 pm
by OrangeQuest
piperdown wrote: Thu Jan 24, 2019 3:57 pm That would be cool! Although you'd better make sure only you or fellow RC enthusiasts drive it (ask me how I know :help: )

Better find something listed as water proof too. Not sure I'd take a chance on just water resistant, but that's just me.
I am with you on wanting it waterproof. That is why if I was to venture down this path the steering actuator, throttle, shift servos and radio would all be in a water tight box. Using regular control cables to the motor would be waterproof back to the box. Even the radios they use now have fail safe systems on them that will move everything into a preprogrammed position if contact is lost. The radio I already have is one of them. Don't know how I would feel controlling a 14' boat with a 2" steering wheel. 8O

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jan 25, 2019 12:49 pm
by Rtorres2411
I could use a short stroke actuator and use leverage to speed up the travel.
I could make a control box with the steering, throttle and shift controls all in the same box with the cables coming out of the box and at the motor everything connects up the same. Since I am more or less dreaming it could also control trim/tilt and start. So I could back the boat down the ramp, fire up the motor and take it off the trailer without getting out of the tow vehicle. Park my vehicle and the boat would then pick me up at the dock.
[/quote]

OQ you’re into something here. If car makers can make cars park themselves, and plane makers make planes with auto land, a boat with auto trailering assist sounds not to far off. Imagine all the solo boaters that can benefit from a system like what you’re thinking off.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jan 25, 2019 12:56 pm
by pee wee
You need an app for that!

I don't know how many Millennials own boats, but they all will want the app. :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jan 25, 2019 1:08 pm
by Bogieman
pee wee wrote: Fri Jan 25, 2019 12:56 pm You need an app for that!

I don't know how many Millennials own boats, but they all will want the app. :lol:
:lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jan 25, 2019 2:55 pm
by Jaysen
pee wee wrote: Fri Jan 25, 2019 12:56 pm You need an app for that!

I don't know how many Millennials own boats, but they all will want the app. :lol:
2... the rest are waiting for someone to hand them the boat they deserve.

Seriously though... some of the best boaters I know are millennials. But they were taught to work hard and party harder.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jan 25, 2019 4:35 pm
by OrangeQuest
IF and that is a big if, I want to spend any real time trying to get this to work it wouldn't be that hard to make work...I don't think. :doh:

I think a channel for steering, one for shifting/throttle and then one for trim/tilt. 4th channel for on/off start. With the newer fuel injected motors there is no choke or anything complex like that. I have found some faster stop to stop actuators that should have more than enough force to move steering and gear shifter. I would think R/C motor speed controllers would be the way to control the actuators direction and the actuators all have limit switches.

If someone were to develope a system like what I am thinking it would be very practical for all kinds of boats. It would be very easy to control the travel of the actuators because the R/C servos already have a system that limits the travel of the servo. Use the same method so if you let go of the steering wheel or maybe throttle everything goes to a predetermined spot.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jan 25, 2019 5:45 pm
by Jaysen
Skip serve and look at stepper motor for steering.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jan 25, 2019 9:55 pm
by OrangeQuest
Here is an actuator that could work for steering and shifter control.
https://www.progressiveautomations.com/ ... entiometer
Since it is already setup for use as a servo. Add a speed controller into the circuit for the 5 amp load and it is all set up. This type of actuator can come with protective boots to make it a little more durable to marine environment. It is also serviceable with replacement parts so easy to maintain.

One problem I see is the duty cycles on these things are very low and would think it would be best to find one that is made for continuous operation.
Maybe trade out the motor with a higher RPM and more robust.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jan 25, 2019 10:22 pm
by Jaysen
I still think a stepper motor would be a better idea for steering than a servo or linear actuator. You can use a servo motor circuit to control return to center, rotation speed and max rotation. It may seem simple to me because I build junk like that regularly but if you're already comfy with RC I don't think it's that much of a leap to AVR code and soldering.

Just an idea.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jan 26, 2019 6:58 am
by OrangeQuest
My thoughts are to use a linear actuator to move the steering cable that are already used to steer the boat. All you need is linear movement the same distance the steering cable moves. Would need to be as close to "plug and play" as possible so anyone that can replace a steering cable could service the system. The actuator has 5 wires that need to be connected and that could be done with a 5 wire plug. From there it runs into a small box that houses the speed control and receiver.

A R/C servo also has 5 wires needed to control the position of the servo arm. 3 small wires for the potentiometer, for knowing position of the arm, and two load wires to move the motor so the arm matches the movement of the transmitter "stick" or wheel. The two load wires go to the speed control that handles the larger load of the 5 amp motor. But it is all in a single box that just plugs in via a 5 wire plug from the actuator and a small 3 wire plug that plugs into any R/C receiver and then positive and negative wires to power it all up.

Since a lot of R/C radios come with a connector on the transmitter for a "trainer" to plug another transmitter into to allow a "trainee" to learn to control the R/c model then a remote control box could be used when not onboard the boat. When onboard the boat the remote transmitter plugs into the boat's trainer box for onboard control.

Service would be as simple as unplugging one of the 3 main parts and plugging a new one in. The only part out of the 3 that is not over the counter parts would be the speed controller itself, but it wouldn't take much to get a company to make them, if there was a market for them. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat-Found it!

Posted: Sat Feb 23, 2019 7:16 am
by OrangeQuest
This is my build log thread and found it 5 pages into my own posts. The title is very close to the same as my "ask a question" thread "FS14-BAYOU BOAT"
I don't always look at the title bar. Some of you already figured out I get confused very easy when it comes to web based stuff.
Anyway, I will try very hard to use the correct thread for my rambling of my build to asking my many questions about getting the boat to a finished state.

Oh, I see what you are doing Capt UB, you change the subject and it pops up as a different thread, very clever! Helps keep track of progress and what you are asking about within your threads.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Feb 25, 2019 8:57 pm
by OrangeQuest
Well, I started a week long event today. Started at 7, finished and home by 4:30. I am old, every bone that can move is already sore. The forecast was a 20% chance of rain starting at 4, thunder and lightning with hard rain at noon. 8O When had cleaned one side of the bayou and return trip was to be the other side but instead we had to paddle hard to get to the landing and get out of the storm. This whole week was just a slight chance of rain ALL WEEK. That was this morning when I left for work. Now this evening that has all changed to 100% rain! How can the forecasters be so wrong?

I got soaked, loaded boats in the rain, wash and cleaned boats in the rain and one of the students picked up a very DEAD animal that was already in a bag and it stunk, very stinky! Anyway, I got home, jumped straight into the shower and took a very hot shower to get warmed up again. Grab the remote for TV and 3 hours later I am back awake to type this. Now I am going to bed to snuggle up to my blankie and grab the remote again. Hope tomorrow is a better day. :?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Feb 26, 2019 5:52 am
by glossieblack
Here's hoping tomorrow is good to you OQ! :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Feb 26, 2019 6:12 am
by OrangeQuest
glossieblack wrote: Tue Feb 26, 2019 5:52 am Here's hoping tomorrow is good to you OQ! :D
Thank you Glossie!

I am up and a little stiff with the forecast less bad, radar not show much either but warm moist air off the coast hitting cooler air, things can change quickly. What is showing up on radar form quick and then disappears just as fast. As a sailor I am sure you have seen these conditions a few times. It is these conditions I was wanting extra bilge pumping capacity for my little boat.

The group this week is a school church and the young lady in charge has a very positive outlook. She has enough faith for the group and in me to keep everyone safe. The other instructor is a very strong young man that loves the adventure. Both of them really help keep the students in line and this year it is a very fun bunch. None of them was whining about getting rained on so that is always a good sign.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Feb 26, 2019 9:04 am
by Bogieman
:D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Feb 26, 2019 11:36 am
by OrangeQuest
The parents were concerned of the forecast and the school canceled. It went from a drizzle to now a rain. :( It was a good call.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Feb 27, 2019 7:29 pm
by OrangeQuest
well, got rained out again today but it was a double whammy with high current flow from the rain. So Thursday they are coming to the warehouse to help get us ready for the regatta coming up. You guys have seem some of the warehouse in the back ground of my pictures, it's a safety hazard for students! 8O

I did glue, fillet, and tape the cross piece to frame A and I can clamp it into the hull in the morning. No pictures still.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Feb 27, 2019 9:07 pm
by Capt UB
regatta

You mean a racing get to gether, KAYAK RACING?

Or kayaks using umbrellas as sails?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Feb 28, 2019 5:39 am
by OrangeQuest
Kayak and canoe racing! Some do it for fun but it is a sanctioned race that the racers all get points for. The unlimited class will start coming in after a little over an hour of paddling the 15 mile course. I have only raced it once but came in first in mixed tandem, 2hr 50min. There are some that just race for the fun. It is a fund raiser for the bayou. There have been more than 700 boats in the race some years, about 55 of them are ours.

I am worried having so many teenagers in the warehouse, it is not designed for teenagers! 8O I will give them all work gloves, safety googles for the ones operating the power washer. I don't know what else to do. Will set up a few cardboard boxes label them "trash" and "tools". Have them sort my stuff then when they leave go back through it all to see what I missed. All 55 boats need cleaning and inspecting, something I was going to do next week after this week of using the boats for clean up. Then inspecting all the jackets (PFDs) ,seats and paddles. There is a lot of work!

Wonder if while the students are working I can get a little work on the boat done? :wink:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Feb 28, 2019 7:30 am
by glossieblack
Hang in there. Before you know it, you'll be wishing you had the same level of customers and less time to build! :wink:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Feb 28, 2019 7:31 am
by glossieblack
Oooops. Double post. Apologies.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Feb 28, 2019 6:20 pm
by OrangeQuest
The students showed up and were quick at work, lots of work done in two hours and then they were gone! Great group of young people and great teachers. It was a blast!

Since I had a little free time I made a few molds the form the crown of the foredeck. Could not get it to flex into the right shape so I added a series of scarfs under the deck and sandwiched the deck with the molds. I am happy with the shape now. I will add tape to the molds and then add glue into the scarfs then clamp it up again.

Temps this morning were 69 at 5:00 am. it is 47 right now at 5:00 PM. Will be in the high 60s tomorrow. Weeeee, weeee, wee! Got to love the temp swings! :wink:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Mar 01, 2019 7:11 am
by Capt UB
Would love to see some pictures of the kayak races.

Have fun, at lest its not 100*!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Mar 01, 2019 11:47 am
by Bogieman
You definately have a busy life. Sounds fun too. Hope you get some more downtime to work on the boat.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Mar 01, 2019 4:54 pm
by Fuzz
OrangeQuest wrote: Thu Feb 28, 2019 6:20 pm Temps this morning were 69 at 5:00 am. it is 47 right now at 5:00 PM. Will be in the high 60s tomorrow. Weeeee, weeee, wee! Got to love the temp swings! :wink:
As a young man my father was a carpenter in Texas. Having to work outside with those temperature swings drove him to Alaska. Well that and hunting :wink: So in a way I am happy about those temperature swings there :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Mar 01, 2019 8:18 pm
by OrangeQuest
Capt UB wrote: Fri Mar 01, 2019 7:11 am Would love to see some pictures of the kayak races.

Have fun, at lest its not 100*!
Here are some pictures from past races.
https://www.bing.com/images/search?q=bu ... ORM=HDRSC2

We are one of 3 vendors that drop off and pick up our boats for the race. We get front row parking within 30 yards of the finish.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Mar 01, 2019 8:33 pm
by OrangeQuest
Bogieman wrote: Fri Mar 01, 2019 11:47 am You definately have a busy life. Sounds fun too. Hope you get some more downtime to work on the boat.
There is a lot of down time, just very busy the few weeks before our season opens and then a few weeks after. Training all new employees this year makes it a lot harder.

I get to work early for my down time or to make sure we have everything ready for the day's events. I find it easier when no one is there (warehouse)to ask me questions and throw my thought off. Employees are trained to clean everything and get it all ready for the next day so once trained I don't have much to do. I will go back to just keeping things up and running.

This week was very hard work but it was also a lot of fun hanging out with a great bunch of young people. It is not the money that makes it all worth it. I go to sleep with a smile on my face and it's comes back when I wake up.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Mar 01, 2019 8:38 pm
by OrangeQuest
Fuzz wrote: Fri Mar 01, 2019 4:54 pm
OrangeQuest wrote: Thu Feb 28, 2019 6:20 pm Temps this morning were 69 at 5:00 am. it is 47 right now at 5:00 PM. Will be in the high 60s tomorrow. Weeeee, weeee, wee! Got to love the temp swings! :wink:
As a young man my father was a carpenter in Texas. Having to work outside with those temperature swings drove him to Alaska. Well that and hunting :wink: So in a way I am happy about those temperature swings there :D
Not to many places you leave in the morning wearing tee shirt and shorts but take a heavy coat too. Or stand in the shade and it's freezing cold but step in the sun light and start sweating. I hear there are other places like this but I wouldn't know, Texas is the only place I have lived. I don't even have a passport to leave and get back into Texas! :wink:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Mar 02, 2019 6:34 pm
by Bogieman
:D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Mar 03, 2019 6:47 am
by OrangeQuest
I thought I posted picture already but don't see the thread? :doh:
Here is my foredeck with epoxy glue curing. I left the glue a little running to make sure it soaked down in the scarfs. I will see how well it did this morning.

4517

Will see how much crown stayed in the deck this morning. And if I glued the hatches back in! 8O

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Mar 03, 2019 6:51 am
by glossieblack
That's going to be a good looking foredeck! :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Mar 03, 2019 6:53 am
by OrangeQuest
glossieblack wrote: Sun Mar 03, 2019 6:51 am That's going to be a good looking foredeck! :D
Thanks Glossie! I am trying to get the curve in the hatches too!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Mar 03, 2019 9:33 am
by Bogieman
Wow! Very nice OQ.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Mar 03, 2019 7:57 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thank you Bogie!


One of the things I was hoping for is to have a crown all the way to the point of the bow and it was successful.
4527
It is also very stiff so I think it will stay. As the deck gets wider it get more flexible and didn't curve as much but Once I fill the low spots and glass I think it will hold.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Mar 10, 2019 7:59 am
by OrangeQuest
I have one more very busy week but have been stealing a few minutes here and there on getting the A frame glued in the exact place in the hull. Since the smaller foredeck was a last minute add on I am still checking everything I can think of before gluing the A frame in. Not much room for drilling holes once it is in and the alignment is critical. I have not found an easy way to keep it clamped into position while checking the squareness to the "B" frame or the foredeck. Very frustrating to think all is in place and a clamp slipped or off by a fraction. I am thinking of gluing small clamping cleats to the sides so the A frame can be held in position while I tab it in. It has warmed up enough to start using epoxy again.

By the way, the regatta was the best one our small company has every had. All working employees worn safety orange shirts and you could see them easily in the large crowds. Old man Tom (75 year old that heads up the R/C dept.) would point the in coming paddlers to our check in desk as our boat handling crews took care of the rental boats. The crews made it look easy getting 16 foot kayaks and canoes through the crowd. They would stack the boats on my homemade carts and off they go to the trailers where the loaders took over. Paddles on wheeled cart, PFDs on special made holders that as they got full would also go to the trailers. We rented more boats than any of the other venders but were the first to get loaded and leave. Very proud of the work the crews did! Now for spring break week! 8O

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Mar 10, 2019 9:31 am
by Bogieman
Nice, OQ! Sounds like you're running a neat operation there.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Mar 11, 2019 5:56 am
by OrangeQuest
Bogieman wrote: Sun Mar 10, 2019 9:31 am Nice, OQ! Sounds like you're running a neat operation there.
Thank you Bogie! It is the employees that I give credit to. All but two were returning employees and guided the new employees as to what needed to be done, they wanted me not to help. This week I get to train all new employees at our busiest venue. Not sure what days I even have off this week but I will manage.

Hope the weather has changed in your favor as it has here. I hope to be doing a little epoxy work over the next few days.
OQ

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Mar 11, 2019 6:04 am
by OrangeQuest
Sorry, but some of the pictures of the regatta are starting to post on FB. Here is one at the starting line. All the yellow boats are ours and most of the orange. As the boat going the wrong way tells of the experience of some of the paddlers!
4548

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Mar 11, 2019 7:13 am
by Capt UB
:lol: :lol: What ???? NO GATORS!!! :lol: :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Mar 11, 2019 7:14 am
by Capt UB
That looks like fun, where are you at ?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Mar 11, 2019 8:32 am
by OrangeQuest
Capt UB wrote: Mon Mar 11, 2019 7:14 am That looks like fun, where are you at ?
This is at the start of the race so it would be about 9:00 A.M., I would have been at the finish line waiting for the boats to come in. We drop off and prepare all our boats at the start somewhere around 4:30 A.M., by 6:30 A.M. we are parked at the finish line where a lot of the loaders will be sleeping in our now empty bus and mini van. That way we get front row parking at both places. After all our boats are picked up at the start line the "check in" table and any remaining boats are loaded on our last trailer. They then meet us at the finish where we set up the "check in" table very close to where the boats will come out. All the PR work with the major sponsors leading up to the regatta pays off with us get first pick, top picks on where we set up and a lot of exposure. As you can tell by my posts I like to talk a lot so I am the guy that talks to the public and answer questions. With me having OCD all the returning employees call me a MMD, Micro Managing(short for Richard) but with affection. We always get a kick out of it. I won't let something go till it is done right, which this event I had nothing really to do during the event. As you can tell by my long posts I love to talk, so I wondered around seeking out people to talk to. :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Mar 11, 2019 8:33 pm
by Capt UB
Did you buy the console plans?

Did they come as an instant download?

Thanks
Bob

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Mar 12, 2019 5:47 am
by OrangeQuest
Capt UB wrote: Mon Mar 11, 2019 8:33 pm Did you buy the console plans?

Did they come as an instant download?

Thanks
Bob
Yes and yes! To me it is worth the money to know how to build it correctly and to know how to adjust it to my needs. There was also footnotes and reasoning as to why things need to be the way they are.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Mar 12, 2019 9:01 am
by Capt UB
OrangeQuest wrote: Tue Mar 12, 2019 5:47 am
Capt UB wrote: Mon Mar 11, 2019 8:33 pm Did you buy the console plans?

Did they come as an instant download?

Thanks
Bob
Yes and yes! To me it is worth the money to know how to build it correctly and to know how to adjust it to my needs. There was also footnotes and reasoning as to why things need to be the way they are.

Ya, great info about building and installing them!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Mar 13, 2019 9:25 pm
by OrangeQuest
Hopefully Capt UB you found the plans useful.

I went ahead and ordered my anchor and electrical terminal connectors with terminal blocks. Figured I need to know if the anchor will fit in the anchor locker before I glue it all in. Next will be the bow roller.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Mar 14, 2019 6:53 am
by Capt UB
OrangeQuest wrote: Wed Mar 13, 2019 9:25 pm Hopefully Capt UB you found the plans useful.

I went ahead and ordered my anchor and electrical terminal connectors with terminal blocks. Figured I need to know if the anchor will fit in the anchor locker before I glue it all in. Next will be the bow roller.


Sounds like a plan... Keep going.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Mar 14, 2019 9:09 am
by OrangeQuest
One part of the plan is to get the anchor and see how it will stow on the deck in the bow roller. I used my cheap Danforth anchor to see how close the anchor can be at the bow with the flukes not touching the hull. I want to have enough downward tension on the flukes so they are not bouncing around when the boat is on plane and hitting chop. Since one anchor will always be stowed in the anchor locker by the stocks I want to make the stock hangers and glue them in before gluing in the frame. I also want the shank to have a holder in the locker that keeps it from banging around. The FX- 7 anchor will be the one in the locker most likely but I think I can use the G-5 as my sample. The shank of the FX-7 is only a few inches longer so just need to make the shank holder a little deeper.

Also toying with the idea of adding 6mm plywood to the foredeck with larger hatch openings so the 9mm ply will be the hatch frames. Clearance the frames by 1/16 " I can use 1/8" thick foam as my seal. The seal is not so much to make the opening water tight but to reduce slack from the hinges and latch. Between the crown in the deck and the extra ply the foredeck should be pretty beefy, I would think.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Mar 16, 2019 8:39 pm
by OrangeQuest
So I took an hour or so today to work on the foredeck some more. Before getting everything all glued up I want to get all the hardware that will be going on the deck figured out and holes drilled. Starting with the foredeck hinges.

The little hinges I got for the foredeck hatches are not just simple little hinges, they are double jointed so the hatches can lay flat on the deck. Before cutting up my final piece I have cut for the deck I tried a piece of sample plywood. As I was starting with the sample I was thinking that I needed one of the Flyfishingmonk's up and coming engineers over to show me how it's done! :doh: I started by razor cutting the outline of the hinge, then out came the router. Then I used the scroll saw to cut a notch for the hinge pin housing, then another notch for the double hinge joint. Finally countersunk for the screw bevel. Little touch up of the notches with the curved hobby rasp and the hinge was working pretty good. Will need to clearance everything a little more for the epoxy coating but I like the look.

4555
with the hinge in it.
4556

Only have to do this 8 more times! Thinking I will use #8 for the 3 holes and #10 machine screws for the 2 screw part and tee nuts.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Mar 17, 2019 3:37 pm
by OrangeQuest
It has been a long weekend! I started Saturday cleaning the rest of the boats that were used for the regatta. They all had to be power washed along with all the seats, paddles and PFDs. I am down to the last 18 boats :( The temps have been in the upper 50s and I stay soaked for most the day. I am done for next 2 days! :D then a political tour on Friday. :(

Tried to use the router and remove the wood on the deck for the hinges and I did manage to get the small part of the hinge done but I had to correct a few areas so I didn't finish the hatches themselves. Not to sure if I want to take out just a little more than flush to account for the thickness of a coating or two of epoxy. Doing it all free hand really puts a strain on the nerves, one slip and ruins everything 8O

When I was shopping for the tee nuts and machine bolts I also looked up some stainless slam latches. Found some that are 1.75" and are now on the wish list. Trying to make the hatches stout enough that one latch will be enough for each.

Some of you may wonder why so much fuss over such a small little foredeck but it is an area of the boat everyone can see and being so small doesn't take long to find problems and imperfections. So I am going to great lengths to make sure they have some to find. :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Mar 17, 2019 9:27 pm
by Bogieman
All your hard work is going to pay off. She's going to be a fine looking boat.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Mar 18, 2019 9:01 am
by pee wee
OrangeQuest wrote: Sun Mar 17, 2019 3:37 pm Tried to use the router and remove the wood on the deck for the hinges and I did manage to get the small part of the hinge done but I had to correct a few areas so I didn't finish the hatches themselves. Not to sure if I want to take out just a little more than flush to account for the thickness of a coating or two of epoxy. Doing it all free hand really puts a strain on the nerves, one slip and ruins everything 8O
It may be too late in the process to change, but I think it's worth the time making a router template for doing multiple precise cuts, especially if you're going for a bright finish. Having a camber to the deck would make it a little more difficult to secure the guide, but that's a small hurdle.

Sounds like you're making some good progress. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Mar 18, 2019 10:17 am
by OrangeQuest
Thank you Bogieman and Pee Wee!

I was thinking the same thing about a template Pee Wee. I have been wanting to get the template guide set from Harbor Freight and it seems the only way I will be able to add the clearance to the hatch frames is going to be with a guide. It is on the wish list! It is hard to justify when I don't use a router to much for anything else these days. Besides, there is a lot of thrill going wild and free handing with a tool spinning at over 25,000 RPMS! :D

The deck that the hinges are going to be on is only 6mm think and is still flat. Once the hinges are clearance, the bottom piece that has the camber and the top deck piece will be laminated in the jig I used to form the camber to start with. I think this time though I will do just the deck in the rig and after cured will tape off and add the hatch pieces, moving the rig so the hatches get more of the camber than the last time I did it.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Mar 18, 2019 10:53 am
by pee wee
OrangeQuest wrote: Mon Mar 18, 2019 10:17 am I have been wanting to get the template guide set from Harbor Freight and it seems the only way I will be able to add the clearance to the hatch frames is going to be with a guide. It is on the wish list! It is hard to justify when I don't use a router to much for anything else these days.
If it's no cost that appeals to you, you don't have to use a template guide to do what you want. You can make a template that references the base plate of the router where the base of the router sits inside the template instead of on top of it.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Mar 18, 2019 12:17 pm
by OrangeQuest
Pee Wee I did consider that option, but I passed on it due to thinking more room for more error. I will tackle the hatches one morning when I am very fresh and not cold. The finally step before glassing the deck will be to use wood flour/epoxy filler to fill any gaps between the deck piece and the hinges. My main concern is getting them square to the edge and the hinge having enough clearance to not bind or stick once the epoxy is on. To add the glass I will wrap the hinges in packing tape and then mount them. Trim the glass off the top of the hinges when the epoxy cures. I bought 2 extra hinges for the construction of the hatches so they can be sanded on and cut.

I am thinking of using a lap joint on the edges of the hatch frames and the hatches to add a strip of hardwood. It will be used to seal the end grain of the plywood and any damage to the edge will only allow water to soak into the hard wood and not the deck wood itself.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Mar 19, 2019 8:33 pm
by OrangeQuest
My boat anchor came in today!! I have a new toy to play with tomorrow :D !

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Mar 19, 2019 9:20 pm
by Browndog
To cut the recesses for the hinges on my brother’s boat I created a template out of scrap plywood using the outline of the hinges as a guide. I secured the template on top of the deck or hatch lid and then followed the template with the router bit. The template really saved time with the 9 deck hatches I had to do and helped me to avoid either chiseling everything out or trying to freehand them and messing them up.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Mar 20, 2019 5:33 am
by OrangeQuest
Browndog wrote: Tue Mar 19, 2019 9:20 pm To cut the recesses for the hinges on my brother’s boat I created a template out of scrap plywood using the outline of the hinges as a guide. I secured the template on top of the deck or hatch lid and then followed the template with the router bit. The template really saved time with the 9 deck hatches I had to do and helped me to avoid either chiseling everything out or trying to freehand them and messing them up.
I think I am going to order the template guide set from Harbor Freight. And I have plenty of scrap plywood.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Mar 20, 2019 7:31 am
by glossieblack
Way to go. :wink:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Mar 20, 2019 8:30 am
by OrangeQuest
I assembled the anchor today and once I got it to the bow it has changed my mind on stowing any anchors in the bow roller. It takes about a minute to assemble this anchor. It is shockingly little 8O to hold as well as tests show. At only 2.5 pounds I may have to weight it down to get it to the bottom. :lol: The anchor kit did come with 6 feet of chain, 150 feet of braided line, a shackle and a very nice storage bag. Since the G-5 and the FX7 anchors assemble without tools in a minute or two I will just keep them in the bags and pad the locker. No hangers or complex storage system. The anchors will easily fit down in the locker assembled if I need to up anchor and move. Will still use a roller, it just won't be sticking out 8" to 10" from the bow. This will free up space to stow extra lines and shackles in the locker.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Mar 20, 2019 8:32 am
by Bogieman
8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Mar 27, 2019 10:14 pm
by OrangeQuest
Wow! Can't believe how long since I have done anything with my boat. I did take my anchor line home and marked it with marks at every 10 feet so I can get more accurate scopes.

My slam latches came in for the foredeck hatches and it looks like I picked the right sizes at 1.75", small hatches and small latches. The hinges are flush mount 316 stainless and so are the latches. Squeezed a little more from this month's budget and ordered the "no snag" shackles for the anchor and some 316 steel thimbles. I also ordered some HD stainless steel pad eyes to attach the anchor lines to the boat. Also ordered all the stainless steel hardware to hold everything together.

Work is still to busy to do much work on the build but I am trying to free up some time. Spent a little time today working on adding a little more camber to the foredeck molds. Also worked a little on shaping the backing plate for the Samson Post and bow roller.

Sorry, no pictures.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Mar 28, 2019 5:49 am
by Capt UB
OrangeQuest wrote: Wed Mar 27, 2019 10:14 pm Wow! Can't believe how long since I have done anything with my boat. I did take my anchor line home and marked it with marks at every 10 feet so I can get more accurate scopes.

My slam latches came in for the foredeck hatches and it looks like I picked the right sizes at 1.75", small hatches and small latches. The hinges are flush mount 316 stainless and so are the latches. Squeezed a little more from this month's budget and ordered the "no snag" shackles for the anchor and some 316 steel thimbles. I also ordered some HD stainless steel pad eyes to attach the anchor lines to the boat. Also ordered all the stainless steel hardware to hold everything together.

Work is still to busy to do much work on the build but I am trying to free up some time. Spent a little time today working on adding a little more camber to the foredeck molds. Also worked a little on shaping the backing plate for the Samson Post and bow roller.

Sorry, no pictures.

Still gettin' it done all the same. Can't wait to see a photo of you at the splashing... She well look great, Build On...

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Mar 28, 2019 8:06 am
by OrangeQuest
Thanks Capt UB!

I am trying to get a lot of the things, "nuts and bolts" ordered and on hand so when I have the time I can go right to work. My office manager/event planner has private tours lined up for the next 3 weekends and we are getting calls about wanting to book other events too. We are also on a hiring spree right now to fill positions in our other venues that have yet to open.

One area on the boat I am concerned with is the placement of the nav lights. I got a really good deal on the kind that mount below the shear and don't stick out where limbs, docks or anything else can hit them but don't know if I want to use them. I may just wait and mount something on the console. Woke up a few minutes early this morning due to dreaming about that issue. :?

I want to get the foredeck glued in but I have got to get the center of gravity nailed down before I do much more. I may try to get a rough idea this Sunday with the trailer.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Mar 28, 2019 8:20 am
by Bogieman
OrangeQuest wrote: Thu Mar 28, 2019 8:06 am Woke up a few minutes early this morning due to dreaming about that issue. :?
Sounds like things are booming at work.

I have a lot of dreams about my boat too :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Mar 28, 2019 9:18 am
by Capt UB
OrangeQuest wrote: Thu Mar 28, 2019 8:06 am Thanks Capt UB!

I am trying to get a lot of the things, "nuts and bolts" ordered and on hand so when I have the time I can go right to work. My office manager/event planner has private tours lined up for the next 3 weekends and we are getting calls about wanting to book other events too. We are also on a hiring spree right now to fill positions in our other venues that have yet to open.

One area on the boat I am concerned with is the placement of the nav lights. I got a really good deal on the kind that mount below the shear and don't stick out where limbs, docks or anything else can hit them but don't know if I want to use them. I may just wait and mount something on the console. Woke up a few minutes early this morning due to dreaming about that issue. :?

I want to get the foredeck glued in but I have got to get the center of gravity nailed down before I do much more. I may try to get a rough idea this Sunday with the trailer.

Bogieman found these Nav lights. I'm liking them for the SandPiper. I never installed the lights. Maybe the LM18 too.

http://www.navisafe.com/

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Mar 29, 2019 8:23 am
by OrangeQuest
Not going to be using any kind of portable lighting. All lighting will be hard wired with a switch.

So, I have been tolling over how to clean up the edges of my hatches and clearance them evenly all the way around. I think I came up with a fix for both.

The SOB multi-tool to the rescue! I put a grout removal tool on it, in the half moon shape. Secured the deck and the hatches to the top of the work bench so nothing could move. Then I used the multi-tool to follow the cut lines of the hatches and hatch edges. It gave me a nice 1/8th" gap that is very even all the way around. The curves were a little tricky but turn the attachment so the corner edge was down and very slowly followed the cut again. While the hatch was still secured to the bench top I also clearance for the hinges. There is still a lot of cleaning up to do but I go the job done and the hatches should be a little easier to attach and make sure they are centered.

4578

Why yes I ran wood screws through the deck/hatches into the benchtop. Just a scrap piece of plywood. 8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Mar 29, 2019 9:14 am
by Capt UB
OrangeQuest wrote: Fri Mar 29, 2019 8:23 am Not going to be using any kind of portable lighting. All lighting will be hard wired with a switch.

So, I have been tolling over how to clean up the edges of my hatches and clearance them evenly all the way around. I think I came up with a fix for both.

The SOB multi-tool to the rescue! I put a grout removal tool on it, in the half moon shape. Secured the deck and the hatches to the top of the work bench so nothing could move. Then I used the multi-tool to follow the cut lines of the hatches and hatch edges. It gave me a nice 1/8th" gap that is very even all the way around. The curves were a little tricky but turn the attachment so the corner edge was down and very slowly followed the cut again. While the hatch was still secured to the bench top I also clearance for the hinges. There is still a lot of cleaning up to do but I go the job done and the hatches should be a little easier to attach and make sure they are centered.

4578

Why yes I ran wood screws through the deck/hatches into the benchtop. Just a scrap piece of plywood. 8)

I'm glad you finally getting some time to make my foredeck hatches... :wink:

They look great, more photos please... Was a templet used to cut them?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Mar 29, 2019 9:57 am
by OrangeQuest
Thank you Capt UB!

The first hatch was done with ruler and compass. The straight cuts were done with a Multi-tool and a half moon wood cutting blade. Curves, with a cordless jig saw and a scroll blade. Then used the hatch to cut the other side. First hatches and deck was done in 9 mm ply but then I decided it would be the frame so I cut another deck from 6mm ply and used the compass to make the new hatches 3/8" bigger. I used the 9mm ply as a template for the 6mm. The 9 mm hatches will clearance and then glued to the 6 mm hatches to make them stronger and feel more solid. There is still a lot of cleaning of the edges and adding glass.

I came to work 2 hours early to get a little work in on the boat. Would like to get a rough idea of the CG location before gluing the frame and deck in. I may have to butt the console right up to the foredeck to get the correct trim.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Mar 29, 2019 10:20 am
by Bogieman
That looks great OQ!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Mar 29, 2019 11:15 am
by Jeff
Nice work OQ!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Mar 29, 2019 11:45 am
by OrangeQuest
Thank you Bogie and Jeff! :D

The foredeck subframe. Traced the hatch opening on to this piece of ply and free hand down along the edge a little over 1/16th inch. This is for the EVA foam gasket to prevent the hatches from rattling. The foam I can get in 1/8" sheets. I also cut out under the hinges so it will not be an easy route for water to find it's way in the hatch. Just about ready for epoxy! It has been very mild temps here and I am very close to epoxying a few things and a cold front coming will drop the temps back below 60s. :?

4579

The top and bottom halves of the deck will get some neat epoxy and then an hour or so later the epoxy glue mix and then clamped into the molds again to form the crown/camber. Once cured I will move the molds to glue up the two halves of the hatches so they will also have the camber in them.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Mar 29, 2019 2:00 pm
by Dougster
No way I could do that good a job by hand with the multi-tool. Very nice.

Dougster

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Mar 29, 2019 2:31 pm
by OrangeQuest
Dougster wrote: Fri Mar 29, 2019 2:00 pm No way I could do that good a job by hand with the multi-tool. Very nice.

Dougster
Thanks Dougster! But the counter sink was done free hand with a router. I scored where I want the counter sink to stop with a razor knife and when the router gets close it will tear out to the score line. My problem is since my open heart surgery I have a random twitch that causes the router to go more than I want it to. 8O Nothing a little more epoxy can't fix! :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Mar 29, 2019 9:41 pm
by OrangeQuest
I have a window tomorrow I think I can get the deck glued up and laminated. I don't know about everyone else but I do a practice run on clamping something up to make sure it will work.

The mock up:
4585

If I go in a few hours early again. I can pull the clamps off, spread on the neat epoxy. Finish loading the gear giving the neat epoxy an hour to set and the mix and spread the glue. If I can get that done the temps will be in the mid 70s most the day with a front hitting sometime in the evening and dropping the temp down in the 40s. Sunday then will have a high 50s. I can work on the hatches and get them ready. Then foredeck can stay clamped till Wednesday.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Mar 30, 2019 8:57 pm
by Bogieman
Nice OQ!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Mar 30, 2019 9:45 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thanks Bogie!

I got what I needed to get done. Did our 7th annual tour with a yacht Club today and all went well with that too! Got to work at 6 and spread neat epoxy and then epoxy glue, clamped and let the foredeck set all day. I had a few hours to wait for the finish of the tour and played with router bits to come up with a profile I like for the edge of the bottom half of the hatch.

The temperatures today got to the high 70's then around 5ish the front hit, the wind changed directions and so did the temps. Will be in the mid 40's by morning so no venues open. Giving me the day to clean gear and maybe a little boat work!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Mar 31, 2019 5:06 pm
by OrangeQuest
Got a little work done today! This is what the deck looked like this morning. All clamped up and ready for the clamps to come off.

4587

After all the clamps are off and the hatches just in placed. You can now tell the cuts were free hand and need cleaning up.
4588

And as I normally do, put the deck in place. After about an hour of tweaking the frame I am ready to tab the frame in place.
4589

You can see I also drilled the holes for the slam latches. The mock up console is in the forward position incase it needs to go that for forward.

I also had a shipment of the hardware for the hinges come in. I didn't know if I could use 10/32 or 8/32 bolts or 7/16" or 1/2" length so I got all 4 sizes. and I also got the two different size tee nuts. I put the new hardware with what I have been collecting for the build.
4590
It never got warmer than mid 50s today so closed up shop and went home.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Apr 01, 2019 9:41 am
by Bogieman
That bow is going to look great, OQ!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Apr 01, 2019 11:09 am
by OrangeQuest
Bogieman wrote: Mon Apr 01, 2019 9:41 am That bow is going to look great, OQ!
Thanks Bogie! Notice the dip at the very end of the bow? I don't know how that happened but will be sanding it out some how. Hello belt sander! :lol:

It's not moving till I get a chance to tab in the frame. I have a 4" X 1" board that I sanded the camber into. It will get split and used as the cleats to mount the deck to. It will also serve as the backing for the bow roller and Samson post. With a pulpit on the deck it should be very stout!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Apr 01, 2019 1:03 pm
by Capt UB
Very nice looking! Great job OQ.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Apr 03, 2019 5:56 am
by OrangeQuest
Thank you Capt UB! Sorry I didn't respond sooner, I have been under the weather the last 24hours but still kicking, barely. :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Apr 03, 2019 6:02 am
by glossieblack
That' looking like one fine small boat foredeck in the making OQ! :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Apr 03, 2019 6:08 am
by OrangeQuest
glossieblack wrote: Wed Apr 03, 2019 6:02 am That' looking like one fine small boat foredeck in the making OQ! :D
Thanks Glossie! I don't know where I got the idea from :roll:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Apr 04, 2019 12:34 pm
by OrangeQuest
I spent the last two days, when I had some free time, Drilling, sanding and shaping the hatches. This morning I was ready to glue the top half to the bottom half. Used the wooden dowel method to line them up. Then held them together with screws long enough to get the hatches in the molds to hopefully get a camber in them that will come close to matching the deck.
4597

I am using 8-32 machine screws with tee nuts to hold the hinges on. Because the tee nuts are so wide two will be glued onto the inside of the bottom half of the hatch. I filled each nut with wax and hope that works too. I have a set of taps on stand by just in cast. :wink:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Apr 04, 2019 7:45 pm
by Bogieman
looks like you gotter pinned down well there! :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Apr 04, 2019 8:01 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thanks Bogie!

They did not want to get clamped to the molds. They are going to be even more of a pain getting them level with the deck.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Apr 05, 2019 7:09 pm
by OrangeQuest
The hatches came out pretty good. They did get a little camber to them. I spent a good time of my morning cleaning up the squeeze out and checking the sandwiched tee nuts where clear of any epoxy of the threads. Shockingly they were clear. I attached one of the hatches to the deck with the hardware and it seemed to line up pretty good. Time was limited so no pictures.

Have a big tour early in the morning but should have a little time in the afternoon to get a little work done. Then looks like everything will be rained out on Sunday so a whole day of boat stuff!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Apr 09, 2019 3:48 am
by glossieblack
Very good news that her hatches and fittings are turning out A-ok. She's going to be one nice boat. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Apr 09, 2019 6:14 am
by OrangeQuest
Thank You Glossieblack!

I am happy the way the hatches did turn out. But didn't get anytime over the weekend to work on the boat much. The hatches still need a lot of "tweaking" to get them just right.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Apr 09, 2019 2:05 pm
by TomW1
Things are looking nice OQ. Keep up the good work.

Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Apr 10, 2019 4:57 am
by glossieblack
OrangeQuest wrote: Tue Apr 09, 2019 6:14 am The hatches still need a lot of "tweaking" to get them just right.
Tweaking = the best of times. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Apr 11, 2019 5:59 pm
by OrangeQuest
Last few days I have been looking and adjusting the hatches for the foredeck and how they all line up. I think the next time I go to make hatches the hinges will be attached first and then cut the exact lines to make them work. These are very complex little boogers with lots of clearance for them to work correctly. Today I over drilled the holes for the hinge bolts and glued the tee nuts in for one side. I will see in the morning how well that worked. If all is good the over side will be done.

Since I needed mix a small amount of epoxy glue/putty I used the remaining mixture to tab in the frame A. The weather may keep me indoors Saturday so I may do a little clean up sanding and fillet/tape the frame on in. The anchor locker will be liner with EVA foam so no need for paint are a lot of sanding.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Apr 12, 2019 7:35 pm
by OrangeQuest
So this is where one hatch is at. The tee nuts have been embedded into the hatch and deck but the is still the single one on the three hole part of the hinge. The edges are not to bad in the picture but there is a lot of work to be done if you could see them closer. Still need to do everything to the other side also. I cut the inlay for the hinges a little wide in areas and fill the inlays with a little epoxy putty then press the hinges into the putty to get it to squeeze out into everything. The hinges will be wrapped in packing tape so they won't stick. These are spare hinges to use as templates for the shiny ones.Then the hatches will get a 6oz cover of cloth. Same treatment on the foredeck. The slam latch striker will be made of piece of plywood sanded down to the correct clearance. I think the hatches and fore deck will need to be finished before I glue on the fore deck.
4616

I also did more work on the frame A install. Got a second series of I am having to build up the epoxy a little where might have a small gap or two. :oops: :roll: Since Saturday is already a rain out I may run the fillets and tape it in the morning if all is well.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Apr 13, 2019 11:42 am
by Bogieman
Nice OQ! That looks great. I'm in the process of
Painring my berths but the rain is slowing me
Down too

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Apr 13, 2019 12:48 pm
by OrangeQuest
Bogieman wrote: Sat Apr 13, 2019 11:42 am Nice OQ! That looks great. I'm in the process of
Painring my berths but the rain is slowing me
Down too
Thanks Bogie! I just got done for the day. I made cleats for the foredeck and the forward bench. I just finished giving them a neat coat of epoxy. Earlier this morning I finished the fillets on one side of frame A and taped over them. I will glue the cleats in the morning maybe.

Waiting on the rain that still hasn't happened in the area yet! :(

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Apr 14, 2019 6:00 am
by OrangeQuest
Sorry, forgot I took this picture.
4620
Frame A taped in and pretty much finished. I laid the foredeck on and only have to pull it down a little to match the camber. The deck still has a strange dip towards the last few inches of the bow that I hope I can sand out. The plan was to glue in the forward area cleats when I get to the warehouse but the temps dropped into the high 40s this morning after they were mid 80s yesterday. Clear skies and the temps will climb back to the low 70s this afternoon. May get a chance to do some gluing then.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Apr 14, 2019 6:08 am
by glossieblack
Nice work on Frame A. And nice progress overall. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Apr 14, 2019 8:08 am
by Bogieman
Very nice, OQ!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Apr 14, 2019 8:27 am
by OrangeQuest
Thanks Glossieblack and Bogie!

I made it to work and everything looks good, no air pockets or things that ran down!! I think I am getting better at this!! :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Apr 14, 2019 8:39 am
by Bogieman
OrangeQuest wrote: Sun Apr 14, 2019 8:27 am Thanks Glossieblack and Bogie!

I made it to work and everything looks good, no air pockets or things that ran down!! I think I am getting better at this!! :D
Sweet! And yes you are

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Apr 14, 2019 1:35 pm
by Capt UB
OrangeQuest wrote: Sun Apr 14, 2019 8:27 am Thanks Glossieblack and Bogie!

I made it to work and everything looks good, no air pockets or things that ran down!! I think I am getting better at this!! :D

Air pockets make the boat lighter and adds bouncy 😋

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Apr 14, 2019 2:06 pm
by OrangeQuest
Capt UB wrote: Sun Apr 14, 2019 1:35 pm
OrangeQuest wrote: Sun Apr 14, 2019 8:27 am Thanks Glossieblack and Bogie!

I made it to work and everything looks good, no air pockets or things that ran down!! I think I am getting better at this!! :D

Air pockets make the boat lighter and adds bouncy 😋
:lol: :lol:

I spoken to soon on getting better. When I taped the piece that divides the port and starboard compartments it did not go as smooth. But the lower part where the tape is at will get a little foam in the bottom anyway so it's not so sharp. That said I got the forward cleats glued in and ready for a cold one and heading home. I will post pictures maybe tomorrow.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Apr 14, 2019 4:57 pm
by Bogieman
You are doing great-better than me for sure. Now that I'm fully involved in the sanding phase I'm kicking my own butt for not slowing down and working cleaner. But in the end know one but me will know.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Apr 14, 2019 7:04 pm
by OrangeQuest
Bogieman wrote: Sun Apr 14, 2019 4:57 pm You are doing great-better than me for sure. Now that I'm fully involved in the sanding phase I'm kicking my own butt for not slowing down and working cleaner. But in the end know one but me will know.
:lol: :lol:
The pictures only show my best and they are always a little out of focus! :D
Thanks for the kind words Bogie but you are turning out a boat that will safely carry your family on many of adventures. There may be a few areas that could be better in your mind but it will not effect the seaworthiness of your build.

Mine on the other hand, there is a chance it will be to heavy to float! :lol: :lol: When I was testing the well pump to work my DWL needed to be at 7" at the transom and that is before it takes on 170 pounds of water! 8O

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Apr 15, 2019 6:17 am
by OrangeQuest
Here are the pictures I took before leaving Sunday.
4623
4624
4625

I still need to build a battery locker under the forward bench but this will give me a place to keel and sand.

Both forward lockers will have LED lighting that may be on a separate switch from the aft lights. I also got shark eye nav lights but don't really like them. I am looking into other options.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Apr 17, 2019 1:38 pm
by OrangeQuest
All the clamps are off and did a little sanding and it is very solid on the bow. The wide cleats down the center will also serve as the backing for the Samson post and the bow roller. Jury is still out on the pulpit.
4633

Started work on cleaning up the edges of the hatches. After spending all morning long yesterday asking warehouses if I could have some steel strapping I bought some flat bar from Home Depot. It was easy to bend but don't like it as much as I think steel strapping will do. Went to a warehouse down the street and there was some railroad ties still strapped together with what looks like 1.25" steel strapping in the back of a parking lot. I drove over to them and found some on the ground near the old ties they already replaced. I needed right at 38" and this was more than enough, but could only do one side at a time.

This stuff was kind of bent already but I was able to get most of the bends out and then shaped it to the first hatch. It is clamped down and ready for the epoxy to fill the gaps.
4634
4635
Once this one has cured I will remove the clamps but insert the hatch and fill the gaps in it. IN THEORY this should give me a clean even gap between the hatch and hatch opening.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Apr 17, 2019 3:08 pm
by BassMunn
Nice idea OQ. On both my boat builds my hatch gutters always caused me the most head scratching and frustration

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Apr 17, 2019 3:17 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thanks BassMunn! We will know in the morning if it works or did I just glue the hatch and deck to a big piece of metal!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Apr 18, 2019 7:34 am
by OrangeQuest
Got to work this morning and there is no power. I don't know for how many blocks but the whole area is blacked out.

My phone is my hot spot. Minor set back. The hatch, form and deck all came apart this morning. Needs lots of sanding to get the edges down flush but I think it worked pretty good. Because I used old strapping I had to use a wire brush on a drill to remove the rust and that didn't do it fast enough so I used a grinder to speed things up. It left a few scratches in the surface of the metal and gave the epoxy something to lock into. So required a little wiggling with slip joint pliers. Then a board on the hatch and a gentle tap with a 2 pound sleigh hammer but they came apart. Very crisp edges are the result. Will post pictures later when power is restored.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Apr 18, 2019 8:37 am
by Jeff
OQ, that might make for a quiet day for you!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Apr 18, 2019 5:55 pm
by OrangeQuest
Jeff, it was a very slow day till the sun came out but the warehouse is right next to a train track. Never quiet but on Sunday.

Used a 18V drill and sanding disc to knock off all the epoxy I smeared to get into the gaps, I could feel the epoxy starting to kick and heat up, so slapped it on. I would have got better results if more prep time but I rushed it.
4642

You can see where the epoxy glue DID stick to the metal strapping. There are a few voids to under the edges where the filler did not reach down enough. The filler was not running enough. Once power came on I sanded on down with 220 grit to remove all excessive epoxy. I reinstalled the hinges and was prepping for next round of filler. I thought I took a picture but not in my phone. You can see two of the corners need touching up and what you don't see in the blurred picture is there is a gap between the hinges that I will have to re-do completely.

When guys pour cement they use a vibrating machine to get the cement to settle and remove the air bubbles, any one try that on filling holes with epoxy? :doh:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Apr 18, 2019 10:35 pm
by fallguy1000
OrangeQuest wrote: Thu Apr 18, 2019 5:55 pm Jeff, it was a very slow day till the sun came out but the warehouse is right next to a train track. Never quiet but on Sunday.

Used a 18V drill and sanding disc to knock off all the epoxy I smeared to get into the gaps, I could feel the epoxy starting to kick and heat up, so slapped it on. I would have got better results if more prep time but I rushed it.
4642

You can see where the epoxy glue DID stick to the metal strapping. There are a few voids to under the edges where the filler did not reach down enough. The filler was not running enough. Once power came on I sanded on down with 220 grit to remove all excessive epoxy. I reinstalled the hinges and was prepping for next round of filler. I thought I took a picture but not in my phone. You can see two of the corners need touching up and what you don't see in the blurred picture is there is a gap between the hinges that I will have to re-do completely.

When guys pour cement they use a vibrating machine to get the cement to settle and remove the air bubbles, any one try that on filling holes with epoxy? :doh:
I am trying, but not following the steel strapping too well. I get the general concept I think. The strapping is the spacer. But does it release? Did you prewax it?

For my hatches, steel strapping would be a bit too narrow for opening clearances. My hatches are 3/4" thick plus glass both sides. Still not sure on the edges. Figure hand laminate and 1/4" radius both sides and glass. Then square up with milled fiber n cab. I figure 1/8" is my need. I think mine will all need to be done dimensionally.

I have another hatch that must be above deck and also not leak. No gutters can be used. Shoebox sort of thing.

Hatches are a bear; super time consuming.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Apr 19, 2019 12:40 am
by glossieblack
OQ, those hatches are going to be stout as! :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Apr 19, 2019 6:06 am
by OrangeQuest
The steel strapping was used as a spacer and to make a clean edge, a very crisp clean edge. And no, I did not use a release agent due to not wanting to contaminate the wood or epoxy. I was hoping the very smooth surface of the steel would have been enough for the epoxy not to bite very well and just a little wiggle and it would release. I laminated 6mm plywood on top of 9mm plywood. The hatch opens and closes with the hinges attached with no problem, does not stick nor rub when opening. The picture is right after I took the strapping out and just started cleaning it up, it looks better now but this morning I will do round two on it using thin plastic strips that the epoxy doesn't stick to, even the expanding foam won't stick to it, so should be a lot easier. Once I get a clean, straight edge I will then round the edge over. I did not see a point in trying to get a rounded edge that was uneven to start with. Once the edge is a clean crisp one I can then clearance the edge of the hatch away from the deck however much I think I will need.

This is what it looked like before I filled the gaps in.
4616

Close up.
4635

Hope that helps Fallguy?

I am hoping for better results this morning. Making the hatches wasn't the hard part, getting them just right with both edges exposed is. You should try doing this kind of thing down to 1/30th scale! :D

A little guy I tried to make out of clay. The nose and the hands needed a lot of work.
4643

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Apr 19, 2019 6:19 am
by BB Sig
I was lost on the metal strapping as well. Thanks for the clarification!

Little crew dude looks good! :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Apr 19, 2019 9:58 am
by Bogieman
Very nice, OQ! You're hatches are going to turn out great. It seems that hatchwork is one of the more difficult parts of boat building. I was initially planning to do a hatch in each of my seat tops. In the end I decided to omit them and it was a relief :D

Don't change your little sailor sculpture it looks pefect as is.

Build on

Bogie

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Apr 19, 2019 11:43 am
by OrangeQuest
Bogie that little guy was turned to a blob not long after the picture was taken. The tug is at 1/30th scale. Not at all a popular size for figurines. Next size would 1/32nd which is noticeably smaller. My "model" was a WWII Navy guy off the Revell 1/32nd scale PT Boat 109. I tried fixing his hand, arms and nose and things just got worse for the guy. The anchor chain is sterling silver necklace. It was the only solid link chain I could find that wasn't twisted. I used a home blend of paint colors to make it look like galvanized steel.

This was my last R/C boat and long story why I lost interest in the hobby.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Apr 19, 2019 9:13 pm
by Bogieman
OrangeQuest wrote: Fri Apr 19, 2019 11:43 am Bogie that little guy was turned to a blob not long after the picture was taken. The tug is at 1/30th scale. Not at all a popular size for figurines. Next size would 1/32nd which is noticeably smaller. My "model" was a WWII Navy guy off the Revell 1/32nd scale PT Boat 109. I tried fixing his hand, arms and nose and things just got worse for the guy. The anchor chain is sterling silver necklace. It was the only solid link chain I could find that wasn't twisted. I used a home blend of paint colors to make it look like galvanized steel.

This was my last R/C boat and long story why I lost interest in the hobby.
Awww. If only I said something sooner maybe you would have spared him. Ohhh the guilt :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Apr 19, 2019 10:00 pm
by OrangeQuest
:lol: :lol: :lol: The date that picture was posted to Facebook was Sept 22, 2009, I just looked. He has been dirt for awhile now. Ran across another old picture of the real tug in action.
4648

Another time I built a flush mounted hatch.
4649

The paint chips every time I take the deck off but you can just make out the edges from the red primer under the paint.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Apr 20, 2019 8:57 am
by OrangeQuest
It is a great morning! The hatch popped right out this time without taking any chunks with it.
4650

And the edge is sharp enough to work with now.
4651

I will light sand the edge where I can get folded sandpaper in the gap and slowly remove this edge till I can get a fold piece of 6oz glass to slide in and out. Then round over the edge and it be ready for glass. Give me a few weeks to a month of sanding.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Apr 21, 2019 8:48 am
by OrangeQuest
Most of this filling has been done on the work bench but on the last pass the hatch started showing signs of warping. So I when over to the hull and clamped the deck to it. The cleats, frame and sheer are all sanded down but for some reason the center of the deck lost some of it's camber. I also noticed that whacking the hatch out of the deck put a crack in the deck at it's thinnest part. It only shows up when I clamp the deck down. Also the deck is taking a lot more force to get it down far enough to be glued down. Then on top of all this the hatch camber no longer matches the deck.

The camber is 2" @ 40" wide. My thoughts last night were to cut the deck down to middle to help it bend again but then the crack has me concerned also. It is just the top layer that cracked so not really worried about the strength but it will no long bend evenly. Sand the hump out then glass?

I am considering starting over with the deck and not repeat anything I screwed up this go around. A: shouldn't of cut the hatches till I had the hinges. B: SLOWDOWN when cutting and when possible use a guide! C: put the camber in the deck before cutting the hatches so they are all on the same camber. There are others but let's just say this was a practice on what not to do! :lol:

I will start a new thread in the question section seeking advice on how to do it correctly and best practices. Right now employees should start showing up for a big public tour today!! We also set a record on number of people that paddled at the little Discovery Green venue. 445 people.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Apr 24, 2019 6:42 pm
by OrangeQuest
Deck mock ups
4664
4665
4666
4667

I really like the board added to this set up.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Apr 24, 2019 7:19 pm
by Capt UB
Looks great without the 2x4.

I don't like the 2x4, if the Samson post base fit inside the 2x4 and not sitting right on the edge, I would like it better. I would move the post forward just a bit, away from the hatch pulls. Where will the anchor rode go after the post? If it goes into the hatch, the hatch lid will stickup... Maybe a hawspipe from the deck to anchor locker or an opening on the edge of the hatch lid.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Apr 24, 2019 9:19 pm
by OrangeQuest
Capt UB wrote: Wed Apr 24, 2019 7:19 pm Looks great without the 2x4.

I don't like the 2x4, if the Samson post base fit inside the 2x4 and not sitting right on the edge, I would like it better. I would move the post forward just a bit, away from the hatch pulls. Where will the anchor rode go after the post? If it goes into the hatch, the hatch lid will stickup... Maybe a hawspipe from the deck to anchor locker or an opening on the edge of the hatch lid.
Thanks for the insights Capt UB. :)
It is a 1X4 and if I use a pulpit it will be wider, finished bright. One thing I don't like about the board is it could direct spray back towards the hatches. The Rode will come through an opening on the edge. I will need to climb inside and see how easy everything is to reach from the forward bench.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Apr 25, 2019 7:47 am
by OrangeQuest
So this morning I climbed up inside the boat and laid on the foredeck like I was trying to reach something in the water off the bow. I then adjusted the location of the Samson Post so I would not have to lay on top of it. I could easily reach the bow eye or the chine with no problems and still lay on the deck from the waist up. So it is not about how it looks but how well it functions. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Apr 25, 2019 8:12 am
by Jeff
Really nice deck layout OQ!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Apr 25, 2019 3:56 pm
by OrangeQuest
Jeff wrote: Thu Apr 25, 2019 8:12 am Really nice deck layout OQ!!! Jeff
Thanks Jeff, I am still playing with it but I think I am getting it there.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Apr 25, 2019 6:33 pm
by Bogieman
Yes, OQ! Very nice looking bow. That 1x4 is going to look great with a bright finish

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Apr 26, 2019 5:43 am
by OrangeQuest
Bogie after laying across the deck I may have talked myself out of using a pulpit. But I will be heading to the lumber yard pretty soon and if they have a nice piece of wood that catches my eye you never know.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Apr 27, 2019 7:36 pm
by flyfishingmonk
OrangeQuest wrote: Sat Mar 16, 2019 8:39 pm .... As I was starting with the sample I was thinking that I needed one of the Flyfishingmonk's up and coming engineers over to show me how it's done!
I'm sending little Jude over to help out with the rest of the build. He is bringing his sister and brother and a thousand Oreo cookies to hold them over during the build. =)

Casey

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed May 01, 2019 8:29 pm
by OrangeQuest
Started back work on the foredeck today. Taped up the port hatch and opening and ready to add filler to clean up the edges. I also will be going with wood screws instead of the tee nuts so those will be cut out, over drilled and refilled. I ordered some self aligning drill bits made for aligning the holes for the hinges so that should make putting the hinges in a lot easier.

Playing around with a cheap, soft metal thimble I picked up at HD to do a mock up of my hatch hawse in scrap wood.
4694
I will need a better way to pry the ends apart but once forced into the cut out it stays pretty good and makes a big difference of how easy a line plays through the opening.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu May 02, 2019 7:36 am
by topwater
Try a piece of cutting board or starboard , the stuff works easily and you could put a groove around the outside
edge with a round file and slip it into the opening. Use a set screw to hold in place.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu May 02, 2019 9:02 am
by Bogieman
Man those hatches sure seem like a lot of work. Worth it in the end though :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu May 02, 2019 9:38 am
by OrangeQuest
Bogieman wrote: Thu May 02, 2019 9:02 am Man those hatches sure seem like a lot of work. Worth it in the end though :D
Can't say they are worth it till the end! :D I don't know of any where to get a custom shaped, flush fitting hatch. Since the piggy bank is on a fat free, low salt diet it doesn't take much to break it! I need to start with a clean, straight edge then I can round then over for possible light glass. Dremel makes some very small guided round over bits. That seems to be the only way I can think of to get the edges rounded over. Then getting the glass laid will also be another area of being a pain. This is one area that taking time to do everything a few steps at a time.

May wind up with just an open bow with a breast hook! 8O

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu May 02, 2019 7:00 pm
by OrangeQuest
Things did not go very well today at all. You guys say anything can be fixed with epoxy and wood. I may need to prove that!! 8O

I have a lot of sanding tomorrow to start over.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri May 03, 2019 10:31 am
by OrangeQuest
After really screwing up on the second hatch I cleaned everything out this morning and started over. THIS TIME! I used a shiny purple duct tape and covered the hatch only with it. The lip, top and bottom and double taped it to build up thickness. Then neat coated the opening followed by generous amount of epoxy filler. Laid the hatch into the opening and continued to fill in any remaining gaps and leveled it all off. Saturday will tell if I have an open bow or neat hatches. 8O :doh:

Before filler:
4700
After filler and waiting for it to cure enough to pull the hatch out.
4701

Incase anyone is wondering about the hinges, I filled them in and will wait till the hatches are complete and then drill and install them. Never been blamed for doing things in the correct order! :roll:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri May 03, 2019 6:30 pm
by Capt UB
OQ

Would you drill limber holes in the areas you put noodles? Or other loose foam?
Right now every thing is sealed, no drains or limber holes.

Thanks, Bob.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri May 03, 2019 7:16 pm
by OrangeQuest
Capt UB wrote: Fri May 03, 2019 6:30 pm OQ

Would you drill limber holes in the areas you put noodles? Or other loose foam?
Right now every thing is sealed, no drains or limber holes.

Thanks, Bob.
100% yes! I would put them on the outside of the stringers and then cut small ones to drain through the stringers into the midship bilge. I have flapper valves that I could use for vents into the bilge. The expanding foam under my tank wells is vented in the transom bilge but I coated the exposed parts with epoxy and I can only hope it is sealed. Before the thought of pool noodles I was thinking air tight or expanding foam. Neither way tells me there are any leaks. The round noodles will allow water to drain to the stringers, limber holes and out the port or starboard vents. No worries of pressure build up either.

Because you are not using a bilge and wanting the LM18 to be self bailing you would need vents to keep pressure from building up but I would think you would want limber holes with at least a deck plate for inspecting below the sole. The deck plate could also be for you to stash the rum!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri May 03, 2019 7:20 pm
by Capt UB
OrangeQuest wrote: Fri May 03, 2019 7:16 pm
Capt UB wrote: Fri May 03, 2019 6:30 pm OQ

Would you drill limber holes in the areas you put noodles? Or other loose foam?
Right now every thing is sealed, no drains or limber holes.

Thanks, Bob.
100% yes! I would put them on the outside of the stringers and then cut small ones to drain through the stringers into the midship bilge. I have flapper valves that I could use for vents into the bilge. The expanding foam under my tank wells is vented in the transom bilge but I coated the exposed parts with epoxy and I can only hope it is sealed. Before the thought of pool noodles I was thinking air tight or expanding foam. Neither way tells me there are any leaks. The round noodles will allow water to drain to the stringers, limber holes and out the port or starboard vents. No worries of pressure build up either.

Because you are not using a bilge and wanting the LM18 to be self bailing you would need vents to keep pressure from building up but I would think you would want limber holes with at least a deck plate for inspecting below the sole. The deck plate could also be for you to stash the rum!



Good stuff, thanks.
Bob

Limber holes in the morning....

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat May 04, 2019 12:51 am
by flyfishingmonk
OrangeQuest wrote: Thu May 02, 2019 9:38 amI need to start with a clean, straight edge then I can round then over for possible light glass. Dremel makes some very small guided round over bits.
I bet you could round it over by hand with light sandpaper and you would surprise yourself how consistent your hand and eye will be for uniform round over, if it is say 1/8th or less. Just a thought.

Casey

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat May 04, 2019 6:39 am
by OrangeQuest
flyfishingmonk wrote: Sat May 04, 2019 12:51 am
OrangeQuest wrote: Thu May 02, 2019 9:38 amI need to start with a clean, straight edge then I can round then over for possible light glass. Dremel makes some very small guided round over bits.
I bet you could round it over by hand with light sandpaper and you would surprise yourself how consistent your hand and eye will be for uniform round over, if it is say 1/8th or less. Just a thought.

Casey
I think you are 100% correct. Even a small round over bit would need a wide base for the router and my deck has camber that would allow the base to wobble.

Did I ever state that I do not like hand sanding. And do not like even more when it comes to very small areas. :(

I canceled all venues today due to rain so have the whole day to sand! Weeeee! :?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat May 04, 2019 7:58 am
by glossieblack
A job needs to be done, a free day beckons, the job is for a small area, and it can be done by hand sanding.

Get it done. :wink:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat May 04, 2019 12:01 pm
by flyfishingmonk
I used a small Whiteside round over for my hatch. I think it was the 2000C (Round Over Bit with 1/8-Inch Radius). It seems to work well.

Casey

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat May 04, 2019 1:43 pm
by OrangeQuest
I have spent most of the day sanding on this thing. Only two corners left to get the hatch centered. To finish it off I think I need to attach the hinges so then I can get closer to exact. I think I am done with the hinge side anyways.

I need to shim the lip so the hatch sets flush with the deck also. I found that my cordless with a round grinding stone helps keep the inside corners square and then smooth out by rubbing with sand paper. The clearance is close to 1/16th inch in most areas.

This will be the last time I will want to do flush mount hatches! :help: Saying they are a pain is an understatement.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat May 04, 2019 3:56 pm
by silentneko
They are a pain, if you don't use certain techniques. On mine it took me a while to figure out the gutters, but now I can reproduce them quickly.

For yours I would have glassed the whole foredeck on the bottom, then while it was green bond it in place. Once dry I would glass the top, then walk away for a week or so so the core relaxes into the shape. Once the shape was fully set you cut out your hatches and add your lop behind them. I did this on one of my other projects and it came out perfect.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat May 04, 2019 8:47 pm
by OrangeQuest
Like I stated, no one has ever said I do things the right way! :doh:

I feel a little better about the port hatch after spending the day on just it. Once I get the hinges re-drilled and attached I will finish sanding the edges to fit. The hinges have got to be mounted to help keep the hatch centered. I had some hinge bits come in and it makes centering the screws a lot easier. I also got some adjustable counter sink bits that again, make installing the hinges a lot easier. I am not going to counter sink the hinges this go around but use the glass to bring everything up flush.

Once the hinges are in place I will go back to folding sand paper and sanding the gap to clearance. Once a single fold clears then I go to double the fold till I can get my 1/16" stock all the way around the hatch and opening. This was the only way I could sand the different curves today. A push-pull of the sandpaper in the crack till I could get it to pull easily.

Tomorrow will be a sunny day!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun May 05, 2019 9:01 pm
by OrangeQuest
Got almost a whole day waiting for epoxy to cure enough to touch it! Something I should have done before going home Saturday. Laid the hatches in the opens and then used a straight edge to see how for off I am. Some of you will see it others may not. Hard to tell without the straight edge but it really pops out when it is there.
4720
4721
4722
4723

Then I snapped a picture of the deck. I really like the look of it.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun May 05, 2019 9:37 pm
by Dougster
Put that ruler away, that foredeck looks great!

Dougster

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun May 05, 2019 9:37 pm
by Bogieman
That looks really nice

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun May 05, 2019 9:46 pm
by flyfishingmonk
Looking good!!!

Casey

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon May 06, 2019 6:49 am
by OrangeQuest
Thanks guys!! :)

After the hinge holes get cut back into the hatches I will finish sanding the gaps all the way around. I can see the project of the build wrapping up soon so thoughts of what is next are in the near future. I need to make a list!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon May 06, 2019 7:56 am
by Capt UB
I like that bow. Great job on it.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon May 06, 2019 8:26 am
by OrangeQuest
Thanks Capt UB, it's amazing how you can make things look better with the right angle!! :lol:

I really like the look but it is a pain to do with my very limited skills. Kind of playing with the idea of adding a pulpit that is made from 4 to 6mm ply in this shape to help direct water to the sides and not the cockpit. Thoughts?

4725

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri May 10, 2019 4:16 pm
by OrangeQuest
So last night it rained some. More for tonight also. This time of the year we sometimes get more rain than other times. It was called the rainy season, think it should be called the flooding season.
4743

Since the rain has me canceling all events and venues not much else to do but troll the web and do a little work on the boat. Finished mounting both hatch hinges and got them opening and closing smoothly, good time to walk away for now.
4744

So I started working on the aft wiring. That's why I was asking about the starter wires. Think 4 gauge will fit through 3/4" thin wall PVC? :doh: 8O
4745
I am mounting the terminal blocks, then once the wiring is all done will remove the blocks to over drill and refill. I scrapped the connector idea for back here. Will be easier to just put terminal ends on replacement parts and reconnect. The little red and black wires are for compartment lights. Still need to glue the lights in and wire wrap them. I will try and remember to snap a picture while it is still dark in the morning.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat May 11, 2019 10:36 am
by OrangeQuest
So I canceled all the venues for today that will be on Buffalo Bayou due to high water but was waiting for today to cancel our Discovery Green venue due to it being in a park and the lake doesn't get effected by the heavy rains. But the forecast was rock solid at 100% chance of rain starting around 9:00 A.M. and ending after 4:00 P.M. The whole time of the venue so at a little before 7 this morning I canceled it too. I have been watching a clear radar since 4 this morning with nothing showing up at all. It is a very overcast day but then at around 8 a small rain bleep shows up on the radar and was moving our way!! It started to grow as it got closer and just a few minutes ago it started to rain. Whew! Last weekend same thing but was a cloudless sky starting at 9 A.M.

Anyway, I took a picture of all the compartment lights this morning just before sunrise.
4750
I started cleaning up the foredeck hatches again, this time no power tools! 8O


Is that someone's belly in my picture!! Wth?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun May 12, 2019 3:54 pm
by Bogieman
Very nice OQ! I like the lighting too.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun May 12, 2019 6:23 pm
by glossieblack
Coming along very nicely indeed. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun May 12, 2019 8:52 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thank you Bogieman and Glossieblack!

I pushed it outside today and "tested" how well all the drains worked and tested the main bilge pump. Mainly rinsed all the sawdust out of places the vacuum couldn't reach. Once I was done playing...testing, I was happy only a few times with a sponge got the remaining water out.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat May 18, 2019 6:34 pm
by OrangeQuest
I have not been doing to much on my build but did order the 4 gauge wire for the motor. I was concerned that it would be to big to run down into the chase tube that the 10 gauge was in. Here is a picture of the 4 gauge, the 14 gauge duplex and triplex all in a 3/4" thin wall PVC chase tube sample.

The 4 gauge can carry 50 amps over 15 feet with a 3% voltage drop so I think it will work nicely. I also ordered the cable ends for the 4ga. and connect boot for the battery posts.
EDIT:
:oops:
Forgot the picture!
4811

It fit so loosely I had to tape the short pieces of the Bi/triaxial to the 4ga.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun May 19, 2019 10:02 pm
by Bogieman
Nice OQ!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon May 20, 2019 5:18 am
by OrangeQuest
Thanks Bogie! I am having a hard time finding time to work on the boat! 8O

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon May 20, 2019 6:10 am
by cape man
That looks really tight. Hope you can get them all through.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon May 20, 2019 7:00 am
by OrangeQuest
cape man wrote: Mon May 20, 2019 6:10 am That looks really tight. Hope you can get them all through.
Thanks Cape Man.

I will be happy if only the 4 gauge wires fit through a "S" part of the chase tube. The straight runs are not going to be any problem. If they all don't fit I still have a spare chase tube but would like to keep it as a spare if I can. All my wiring (14gauge) is over kill for my needs so bundling them shouldn't be a problem. The only one that will be on continuously will be the LED anchor light. The triaxial is for future needs. I may add underwater fishing lights and/or flood light off the stern.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon May 20, 2019 10:02 am
by Jeff
Nice OQ!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon May 20, 2019 11:11 am
by BB Sig
Strip the sheathing from the bundled wires only for the parts that will be in the chase tubes and one end. Which ever end that needs to keep the sheathing is the end you insert the de-sheathed wiring into the chase tube. If both ends "need" sheathing, use heat shrink to re-sheath the wire bundles.

Makes it easier to pull. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon May 20, 2019 3:42 pm
by cape man
So I have to ask...if you can see where it may be hard to get everything through a small chase, and you truly want the other as a spare, why not put a larger one in now? On the OD 18 that is one thing I wish I had done when someone suggested it. Instead I have a 1 1/4" chase that is a true PITA to work all the wires through. I had plenty of room to run a 2" through the bulkheads and to the console (which CL recommended after he struggled to get his fuel line through a small chase). You haven't closed anything up...yet.

As to the time to build problem, I did a lot of my best work in the wee hours. My father always said "When you die, you will get to sleep a long time." Makes it rough to get up and go at it in the salt mine sometimes, but I found it easier than trying to work when the BBV shakes started and all I was thinking about was taping in those bulkheads, or installing a bigger chase tube 8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon May 20, 2019 5:33 pm
by Capt UB
That's why I use the thin walled PVC, same OD as the thicker stuff, but more room inside!!

It's not like it's going to get crushed!!
IMG_20190520_173054780.jpg
IMG_20190520_173104255.jpg
.
.

The only down side to this is the fittings are thick walled!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon May 20, 2019 6:33 pm
by OrangeQuest
The reason I posted a picture of the 4ga in a 3/4" thin wall chase tube is because it has already been routed, glued in and filled with foam.
4397
4817
Even has the tank wells glued on top of them.
4750
And a deck glued on top of the wells.
3731
Besides, I am a novice boat builder, a little thing like trying to get big thick wires through a twisting winding chase tube is just one more issue I will have to over come. :doh:


If it doesn't work the 4 ga goes under the gunwale with the control cables!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue May 21, 2019 3:51 pm
by Bogieman
You are cranking right along. Very nice!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue May 21, 2019 6:57 pm
by Browndog
I use a flexible 50 ft Nylon fish tape that I got at Harbor Freight for about $7 to run stuff through chase tubes. Feed the tape through the tube. Then use some masking or packing tape to attach the wires to the end of the tape and pull them through to the other side. Makes the job very easy.

Buying the wire in 100 foot or larger spools also saves money and allows you to pull the wire from the spool and then cut it to length once it is pulled to the desired spot. It is amazing how much wire you will use for just a few circuits.

Everything is looking good and coming together nicely.

Way to go!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue May 21, 2019 7:11 pm
by OrangeQuest
Bogieman wrote: Tue May 21, 2019 3:51 pm You are cranking right along. Very nice!
Thanks Bogie!

Those are all old pictures! But it does show progress! :) I have a lot of areas that need detail sanding and they are growing! 8O Still working on the foredeck and the little hatches. I could cut all the cleats for the sole and give them a good coating of epoxy but I keep putting that part off. Also working on getting the stern wiring all connected and making sure that is right. First full size boat really has me nervous on a lot of things! :roll:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue May 21, 2019 7:37 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thanks Browndog!

Using a vacuum cleaner and sucking a heavy string through and then using tape to make a cone where the string attaches to the end of the wires has worked well for me. I also use a spray bottle of soapy water to help keep the wires moving. Waiting on a day so I have someone there to help pull while I push. Also found a stead pull with a little pushing and twisting makes the wire slide right through. Both 4ga. wire only take up half the inside diameter so the biaxial would only help it all keep moving, that's my theory anyway! :)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu May 23, 2019 8:34 am
by OrangeQuest
So after not working on the boat for almost 2 weeks I couldn't stand it anymore! I pulled out the 10 gauge wire and ran the 4 gauge. Not going to state it was a piece of cake but I got them routed.

The conehead ready to be asked politely to get in the chase tube!
4824
Everything went fairly well till this junction, no more asking!! :x
4825
Once through the junction the wires and me had an understanding and they passed through the last bit with not much more resistance.
4826
Next will be to get the biaxial through the same chase tube.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu May 23, 2019 8:38 am
by OrangeQuest
One thing I wish I did before gluing in the chase tubes and all the bends and junctions, port the openings where they all join. The stops in the fittings are all squared edges. Fat wiring likes to snag on them even when there is plenty of room. :?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu May 23, 2019 3:15 pm
by Capt UB
Dish soap helps with pulling

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu May 23, 2019 3:23 pm
by OrangeQuest
Capt UB wrote: Thu May 23, 2019 3:15 pm Dish soap helps with pulling
I have it in a spray bottle!! And yes, It did help! I may have had to use a few words that would make most young sailors blush too! :wink:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri May 24, 2019 8:18 am
by OrangeQuest
Turns out the triaxial wires were not needed. So this morning I routed the biaxial wires. The bi is only for the anchor light. I still have room if I need to run more wires but for now I am done with routing all wires to the aft section of the boat. I had to route the 4ga. in the spare chase tube but that leaves a lot of space to route more wire through the other chase tube since it only has a single biaxial in it.

Picture of all the wiring ready for the long, straight pieces of the chase tubes to be installed and glued in. The 45°junction box is for the anchor light wire and the triaxial for the sole bilge pump which will end at the junction box.
4834

The bilge pump will get a 3 wire connector. Then a hole will be drilling in the box cover and the pump will be plugged into the wiring inside the junction box. The hole in the box cover will be sealed up. The cover gives me access to the connection if any issues. The connectors are gold plated and hold up very well to a damp, salty environment.
Here is a sneak peek at the deck plate that gives access to the pump.
4835
The pump has float level adjustment and can be switched from float switch to a timer. In the first picture you can just see the small drain for when the boat is on the trailer, otherwise it will be plugged when the boat is on the water. You can also see the drain for if the bilge pump can't handle all the water and it then drains to the transom bilge to help pump out more water.

The boat will not use scuppers so all water that boards the boat without invite can quickly be removed forcible. When on the trailer there is a garboard plug that can be removed to allow any remaining water it exit. I don't expect much water will get in the boat but I will plan just in case. :wink:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed May 29, 2019 5:57 am
by OrangeQuest
Did not get to do much work on the boat over the 3 day weekend but did get to give the small anchor a very good testing. We went to the local lake to train all the new employees how to paddle and rescue and used the gas powered canoe as the marker. We stayed inside the no wake buoys and about 200 yards from the boat ramp, in a small cove that years ago was the swimming area. They no longer allow swimming from the park so we didn't have to deal with them, just a few drunk jet skiers that would come into the cove. It is an area that search and rescue teams train all the time. There were also about 5 law enforcement boats patrolling the lake, one we saw was a gun boat (guns removed) from the border to help with all the boater traffic.

It is a very big lake that had tons of boaters and the ever careless jet skiers. Wind was blowing across the lake at about 10 to 15 knots so there was boat waves and wind driven waves the new kayakers had to deal with. Two of us stayed in the canoe as look outs and about 8 kayakers used the canoe to keep them from getting blown away as others tested. With less than a 3/1 scope the anchor not once had to be reset. Even tested it at a 2/1 scope and it did great! The markers I put on the anchor rode make it easy to know how much line was played out and 3 different people that were in the bow working the anchor duties was able to set it with no problems. I was happy. I spent yesterday babying my sun burnt legs. :(

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed May 29, 2019 8:02 am
by Bogieman
The training sounds like fun. Glad the anchor is working well too.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed May 29, 2019 8:44 am
by OrangeQuest
Bogieman wrote: Wed May 29, 2019 8:02 am The training sounds like fun. Glad the anchor is working well too.
For the ones that already know how to paddle it is pretty easy, not so much for those that are beginners or never paddle a kayak before. The testing is hard for them all. Out of 8 only one did not pass. She gave up on herself. The testing finds their weakness and they don't get a reward for just showing up. :wink:

Next step is training for the lead guide position. Some will do that this year, others may never get that far.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri May 31, 2019 2:51 pm
by OrangeQuest
Weeeee!! Been a slow day for me. Training Monday, private tour Wednesday and job interviews Thursday and today! Did wipe a little of the dust off the boat. A terminal block that I ordered came in for the 4ga. motor wires, made a small mount for it that needs neat coating and then mounting. Since I have a few small areas that need both neat and glue epoxy I am trying to get enough places that needs the stuff so I don't waste even a small batch. I measure my epoxy by weight and don't like getting it down to small of a batch. By Fallguy's standards, MICRO batches barely an ounce.

I have a few places that need filling, some that need build up and some that just need a neat coating. I will mix a batch for the neat coating and then go straight to adding the wood flour to do the filling. With the chilling temp close to the 3 digit marks the med. hardener I have left makes it a race!!

I started fitting hardware around the transom so I can do the oversize drill and refill to all the holes. Here is a picture of the starboard wash deck with the fairlead and clam cleat attached. Also in the picture is the anchor light socket.
4876
I put a spacer under the fairlead to raise it a bit so the rode will not rub the transom. It also makes for a handy grab point when using the motor as a step to climb back into the boat. :)

I want to get all my cleats cut and coated some time in the near future. I have a long sheet of the 9mm ply to make some of the sole but need 20" X 96" more to finish it. Also need a sheet of ply to make my modified standard console.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jun 01, 2019 9:19 am
by Dougster
I mix small batches of epoxy with a cheapo plastic tablespoon/teaspoon set. I have many times mixed the Marinepoxy as small as 1 teaspoon to 1/2 teaspoon of hardener, with never a bad mix. I believe I've even done half that too. It let's you get little small jobs out of the way.

Dougster

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jun 01, 2019 9:49 am
by Bogieman
Nice, OQ!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jun 01, 2019 12:24 pm
by TomW1
I am with Dougster for small batches I use a set of plastic measuring spoons. 1T, 1tsp, 1/2tsp, 1/4tsp. This allows you to make a batch as small as 3/4tsp. Great for small projects and easy clean up with a rag soaked in vinegar.

Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jun 01, 2019 2:19 pm
by OrangeQuest
Dougster wrote: Sat Jun 01, 2019 9:19 am I mix small batches of epoxy with a cheapo plastic tablespoon/teaspoon set. I have many times mixed the Marinepoxy as small as 1 teaspoon to 1/2 teaspoon of hardener, with never a bad mix. I believe I've even done half that too. It let's you get little small jobs out of the way.

Dougster
TomW1 wrote: Sat Jun 01, 2019 12:24 pm I am with Dougster for small batches I use a set of plastic measuring spoons. 1T, 1tsp, 1/2tsp, 1/4tsp. This allows you to make a batch as small as 3/4tsp. Great for small projects and easy clean up with a rag soaked in vinegar.

Tom
Thanks TomW and Dougster, I may try one day the measuring spoon method.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jun 01, 2019 2:21 pm
by OrangeQuest
Bogieman wrote: Sat Jun 01, 2019 9:49 amNice, OQ!
Thanks Bogie! I see all the sanding you are doing and trying to put it off as long as I can but at the same time get to that point to do it in the cooler months when I start saving also for the motor!!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jun 06, 2019 9:31 pm
by OrangeQuest
Spent and little time on the boat today measuring and cutting the cleats. Since none of the cleats are exactly the same size I used the frame side lettering method to know where each set goes. Cleats for the stringers get an "S" plus the frame letter. Some of the cleats got a taper where the frame gets close to the deadrise of the bottom. Looking forward to climbing into the hull and sanding so the cleats can get a good bite. Weeee! :?

I also need to clear the work bench to cut the sole pieces out. Before I get finished with one project I have to start another! I need to make two more kayak carts for work, that has been added to the list! Anyway, got restocking supplies coming from BBC and wanting to get the cleats ready to glue in before Monday. Any left over neat epoxy gets a little wood flour and over drills holes filled in.

Sorry, no pictures... Oh wait, I may have made a discovery this morning of a toad that has been on the endangerd species list since the early 70s. The Houston Toad!
4910
I counted 20 pairs of them.
EDITED: Was told they are Gulf Coast Toads

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 07, 2019 3:04 pm
by Bogieman
:D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jun 09, 2019 7:45 pm
by OrangeQuest
Wow! what a busy weekend! Didn't even get to look at the boat since Thursday and I walk by it in the warehouse to get to all our kayaks and gear. Jeff and the gang at BBC whipped me up a few re-stocking supplies and will be coming in tomorrow. Don't really need any of it to soon but those guys sure do set a high standard of customer service. :D

Looks like I can start building the console pretty soon, that is if work could stop getting in the way! :?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jun 09, 2019 8:17 pm
by Capt UB
Which console did you decide to build?

I've decided to not glass my console in, but bolt it in. I may have to move it when I can get a Yam 25 4 stroke, wishing.....!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jun 09, 2019 9:21 pm
by OrangeQuest
Capt UB wrote: Sun Jun 09, 2019 8:17 pm Which console did you decide to build?

I've decided to not glass my console in, but bolt it in. I may have to move it when I can get a Yam 25 4 stroke, wishing.....!
A smaller short standard. And it will be bolted down so it can be removed if needed. But mounting method is subject to change without notice.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jun 09, 2019 10:28 pm
by flyfishingmonk
Things are looking good!

Casey

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jun 10, 2019 8:40 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thanks Casey, I am not on your level, maybe not even one of your kids' level :) But it is getting there.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jun 10, 2019 8:54 pm
by OrangeQuest
So I ordered what I am hoping is the last of the epoxy, glass and filler for my boat. I put the order in on Wednesday or Thursday last week with BBC. Keep in mind I am very good at pre-planning on ordering stuff and never really in a rush. But in less than an hour after my order was confirmed I get an e-mail that the order was complete, I am a choice member with UPS and they also sent me a e-mail that a shipping label was generated with my name on it. That night I received from UPS that my package was picked up and was given a due date of Tuesday this week. Which that changed to Monday at some point but sure enough. I got my order.

I just got to my office and there the package is, a little dent on the side of it from rough handlers with UPS or any courier, it is expected. But it is how it is packaged that makes the difference. Opened the box and the first thing is the packing list and the safety sheet. All contents well protected and no chance of it getting damaged from normal abuse. So now I can put it on a shelf waiting for when I do need it.

Thanks Jeff and all the gang at BBC that show they care for even us little guys! :wink:
Ken J
AKA OQ

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jun 10, 2019 10:40 pm
by Bogieman
OrangeQuest wrote: Mon Jun 10, 2019 8:54 pm So I ordered what I am hoping is the last of the epoxy, glass and filler for my boat. I put the order in on Wednesday or Thursday last week with BBC. Keep in mind I am very good at pre-planning on ordering stuff and never really in a rush. But in less than an hour after my order was confirmed I get an e-mail that the order was complete, I am a choice member with UPS and they also sent me a e-mail that a shipping label was generated with my name on it. That night I received from UPS that my package was picked up and was given a due date of Tuesday this week. Which that changed to Monday at some point but sure enough. I got my order.

I just got to my office and there the package is, a little dent on the side of it from rough handlers with UPS or any courier, it is expected. But it is how it is packaged that makes the difference. Opened the box and the first thing is the packing list and the safety sheet. All contents well protected and no chance of it getting damaged from normal abuse. So now I can put it on a shelf waiting for when I do need it.

Thanks Jeff and all the gang at BBC that show they care for even us little guys! :wink:
Ken J
AKA OQ
The BBC crew always does a great job!

Good to hear you're in the short rows now and have all your supplies. A few minutes ago I also ordered what I hope will be my last 1 1/2 gallons of epoxy and another 1lb bag of microbaloons.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jun 11, 2019 7:56 am
by Jeff
OQ, thank you very much for the kind words!! We try to pack every order like it will be abused by the worst of the UPS Crew!! Most of the time it works well for us!! Glad your order arrived safely and in good order!! Thank you for your business, Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jun 11, 2019 8:12 pm
by OrangeQuest
Bogieman wrote: Mon Jun 10, 2019 10:40 pm
Good to hear you're in the short rows now and have all your supplies. A few minutes ago I also ordered what I hope will be my last 1 1/2 gallons of epoxy and another 1lb bag of microbaloons.
Boogie, I still need to get paint and who knows how much sanding supplies! :cry:

Then the control cables, steering system, VHF, GPS/Fish finder, gauges, battery and a few other things. THEN, I can start saving for the motor. I am trying to get all my supplies together so when things get slow at work I can tinker with the build.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jun 11, 2019 8:38 pm
by Capt UB
OrangeQuest wrote: Tue Jun 11, 2019 8:12 pm
Bogieman wrote: Mon Jun 10, 2019 10:40 pm
Good to hear you're in the short rows now and have all your supplies. A few minutes ago I also ordered what I hope will be my last 1 1/2 gallons of epoxy and another 1lb bag of microbaloons.
Boogie, I still need to get paint and who knows how much sanding supplies! :cry:

Then the control cables, steering system, VHF, GPS/Fish finder, gauges, battery and a few other things. THEN, I can start saving for the motor. I am trying to get all my supplies together so when things get slow at work I can tinker with the build.


Have you decided what you want for an OB?
2 or 4 stroke, 30, 40 hp?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jun 11, 2019 8:46 pm
by OrangeQuest
This little fella right here but one that is remote. 25HP with power trim and tilt. The boat colors will match the motor art

4932

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jun 11, 2019 8:54 pm
by Capt UB
OQ,

check this out about marine VHF radios,

https://www.boatingmag.com/marine-vhf-radio-range/


I use a $100 floating (on sell could be cheaper) radio. Has weather channels, no GPS (I use a hand held there too). You can take them with you....

Fish finders with GPS/map is nice, but the one I would buy is over $ 3500.00!!!

The main thing for me is portability of my electrics from one boat to another and home so they don't disappear.. My little 145 Scout SportFish had all the electrics ripped out of the fiberglass console. They most have used a battery powered sawsall.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jun 11, 2019 9:19 pm
by OrangeQuest
I already have 2 handheld VHF radios that go with us when we are along the coast. Our kayak group have a channel they use when fishing. The Ana Marie will have the 8 foot ant with the ability to see the information of other larger boats around it and they see her. So she will be getting one of these.
https://www.wholesalemarine.com/standar ... vhf-radio/

The price of these radios are coming down pretty good and I see no reason not to have one with these capabilities on it if you are going to be near the coast.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jun 11, 2019 9:33 pm
by OrangeQuest
I am considering having a small fish finder for day to day depth and a bigger unit that can be mounted that has side scan and a clearer image of the bottom. The prices of the side scan is coming down too but a good little fish finder could be had for less than $300.00. Can get a Suzuki tach that has the warning lights on it. Then will need a volt gauge and hour meter. Already have a power panel with switches and circuit breakers.

Here is a rough draft of the console instrument panel.
3848

I found the size of everything on the web and kind of put it on my dash panel. I don't want my shifter/throttle control sticking out from the console. Then adjusted the width of the dash so everything would fit.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jun 12, 2019 2:26 am
by Fuzz
Man that is a lot of stuff on a 14 foot boat 8O

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jun 12, 2019 7:23 am
by OrangeQuest
Fuzz wrote: Wed Jun 12, 2019 2:26 am Man that is a lot of stuff on a 14 foot boat 8O
I get that a lot! :help:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jun 12, 2019 7:46 am
by glossieblack
Fuzz wrote: Wed Jun 12, 2019 2:26 am Man that is a lot of stuff on a 14 foot boat 8O
Quite so. When the shit hits the fan, you need all the assistance you can et on a small boat. :wink:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jun 12, 2019 9:24 am
by OrangeQuest
The boat will seek adventures through the ICW a lot and sometimes it will travel through the Houston Ship Channel. Being seen electronically makes her just as big as other vessels in the area. Then if there is any doubt, she can be hailed via radio.

As far as her size, even at only 14 feet she has a walk space of close to 8 feet on either side of the helm station. If you include the forward bench than 9 feet. The aft deck and fore deck both have been reduced in size with extra frames added to give her more strength but increased the cockpit by more than a foot. I have no doubts that she is heavy, but like to say she is big boned. :)

I think there are a few bets as to she will float or not.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jun 12, 2019 2:29 pm
by Jeff
She will float OQ!! And will also be very safe!! That ship channel is a dangerous place!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jun 12, 2019 8:33 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thank you Jeff!

The Ana Marie is becoming a solid little boat. If I can get her trimmed correctly I have no doubts on her seaworthiness.


There is a lot of prep work that is time consuming before the sole goes on. The sanding of the tape and fillets for the cleats to go on I have been putting off as long as I can but I have about 6 more cleats to make and the sanding will start. Lucky for me it is the "take the roughness off" type sanding so the cleats bite real well.

The guy I hired to be a driver quit after a few days so I am putting in 13,14, 15 or 16 hours days. A guy can only have so much fun before having to take a break!!! :lol: Out of 10 resumes 2 are old enough to drive! :cry: Plus my office girl wants to quit when she finishes college in a few months. It take months to train someone to take her place!!We have had 2 people that didn't last more than one day!! 8O

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jun 12, 2019 10:40 pm
by Fuzz
It is amazing how hard it is to get good help. People claim they want a job but then expect to get away with not doing any work. We were paying 21 year old kids 70-80k and could not get them to pick up a mop :x

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jun 13, 2019 7:41 am
by Jeff
OQ/Fuzz, could not agree with you more. The boat builders in our area are bringing back retired guys and allowing them to work on their schedules as they cannot find true wood working professionals!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jun 13, 2019 9:35 am
by OrangeQuest
I watch "This Old House", have been for many years, but they sponsor an apprentice program to try and get young people in the high demand jobs of the Craftsman. Even when I was in the automotive industry, Ford had a program they would sponsor. Even a few high schools were starting Tradesman programs where they are hired at a dealership and spend time with trained techs and then go to class as well. It gives them a head start to go into the Ford sponsored programs in college, which they would still be working at the dealership part time.

I hire a bunch of high school and college students because I don't really offer full time work. But we let them tell us what days they would like to work. Then some do not show up for their first day, which they are not given a second chance in most cases. I have one or two that have came back every year so I give those another dollar per hour and they train all the newbies. Nothing we do is very complex but labor is involved at the start and end of the day.

We do a lot of stuff with kids and you can tell which ones will grow up to be really adults that can take care of themselves and which ones will need a safe space every time they go out into the really world. :wink:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jun 13, 2019 5:30 pm
by OrangeQuest
Sorry to steer the thread off so far. Since I have been putting in so many hours at the warehouse I have been able to get a little work done on the boat. I have been sanding all the stringers and frames so I can glue on the cleats. Since the boat is crammed into the warehouse, under a rack of kayaks I can only reach one side. To get the other side I will need to take it outside or I may try taking it off the trailer and resting it on the ground. Makes it a little easier to crawl around inside of the hull. I am using a 40 grit disc on my cordless drill and it's making quick work of the sanding.

Only knocking off the threads of the tape and cloth and will fill the weave with the epoxy glue. Also smoothing the bottom a little of any large globs of stray epoxy putty that was shot from my fillet tool or dripped off. Also glued in the chase tube in the mid section so things are coming along.

My last order I got a quart of slow hardener to glue down the sole. Hope that will be before to long.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 14, 2019 5:56 am
by OrangeQuest
I forgot, I ordered a few sheets of the EVA foam to see how durable it is. It will be used in the forward anchor locker but I ordered it in white! With all the black and red clay in our area should be able to see any mud that stains the foam. If the foam is of the same quality as our paddle boards it may also be used on the sole and then a thicker piece on the forward bench as padding. The foam will also be used to make the gasket for the forward hatches. I cut an 1/8" clearance all around the opening so will be using 3/16" foam so it will compress. But just in case the 1/16" is to much I can get the 1/8" foam at the local art supply.

Still enjoying the spring like temps here in Houston, at 2:00 P.M. the high in my work area was barely 102° and only stayed for 2 hours. Great temps for body dust suit and face mask for sanding!! :roll:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 14, 2019 11:03 am
by Fuzz
I am not sure how you can survive let alone work in that heat and humidity :help: I had to be in Houston in June a few ago for factory acceptance testing of two cranes. I could only take about one hour at a time before I had to go sit under some air conditioning.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 14, 2019 11:56 am
by BB Sig
And we have no idea how you can survive in that freezing land you call home!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 14, 2019 11:58 am
by Jeff
Got to tell you OQ/Fuzz, I lived in Houston a few years (some) time ago and I fully believe the summers are hotter than summers here in Florida (and with about the same humidity level)!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 14, 2019 3:57 pm
by OrangeQuest
I am not Sure Jeff, but it could be you guys get a breeze from the Atlantic from time to time which may make it "feel" colder. We get warm Gulf air all the time, unless Fuzz sends us what the weather folk call "cold fronts"! I have not been outside the country of Texas to many times so don't know anywhere else. My good friend that came from up state New York states that our "cold" days in the 40s or so are colder than the same temp days upstate. He now lives back in upstate.

On really hot days down here you can go into special room that are cooler that they call "Saunas". I don't know if it's French or something but I think it means cooler. They are cooler and a lot less humidity. :wink:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 14, 2019 10:18 pm
by Fuzz
It's called a jet...............make sure it's headed north :wink: :lol: :lol:

All of us need to be snowbirds and dodge the weather extremes :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 14, 2019 10:19 pm
by Fuzz
BB Sig wrote: Fri Jun 14, 2019 11:56 am And we have no idea how you can survive in that freezing land you call home!
Hey, it's only freezing 9 months out of the year 8O

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jun 16, 2019 12:52 am
by flyfishingmonk
I like how your pump access is coming together. Looks really good.

Casey

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jun 16, 2019 5:49 am
by OrangeQuest
flyfishingmonk wrote: Sun Jun 16, 2019 12:52 am I like how your pump access is coming together. Looks really good.

Casey
Thanks Casey!
I am replacing all the junction box screws with stainless square drive screws. For the tighter places the square drive doesn't need downward pressure to keep the bit in the screw so I use a small racketing bit driver! :)

When time allows I am cleaning the work shop! I need a big work bench top to start cutting the plywood for the sole. I also plan on making a cubby shelf for all my new employee's work shoes. They rinse them at the warehouse and then leave them so they dry. I have ran out of space for them in the little area I made a few years ago.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jun 17, 2019 8:53 pm
by BB Sig
OrangeQuest wrote: Sun Jun 16, 2019 5:49 am
I am replacing all the junction box screws with stainless square drive screws. For the tighter places the square drive doesn't need downward pressure to keep the bit in the screw so I use a small racketing bit driver! :)
Got a link to these screws?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jun 17, 2019 10:12 pm
by OrangeQuest
This is the source I have been getting a lot of fasteners from. I order different sizes and lengths on some of my stuff so I don't have to paying shipping. Some of their stuff is more and some is less than other places.
https://www.boltdepot.com/Default.aspx

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jun 18, 2019 9:00 am
by OrangeQuest
I am such a dummy! Looking at steering controls, cables and such, getting ready to figure a budget for all that and it looks like Suzuki uses a through transom clamp to mount the steering cable. Which means it needs a draglink. Can't find the exact length of the draglink for a 25HP but I did find one for a 9.9HP which is 11 inches. I think my motor well is 20" wide. Half of that would be 10" and one inch short of the draglink fitting. Then if I want to be able to turn the boat I would need even more for it to clear.

I can think of a few options:
First, wait to get the motor and drag link and cut a hole in the side of the motor well so the cable and draglink clear and then build a box in the control valve locker to seal the hole up. The bottom of the box slopped so any water that gets in from the motor well will drain back out.

Second, would be to custom make a drag link that will not hit the splash well side but allow the cable to extend out fully from the transom clamp, not likely to work.

Third, Just mount the cable housing to the side of the motor well and not use the dragglink at all. Hmm? This seems to be the best option and the cheapest.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jun 18, 2019 9:34 am
by flyfishingmonk
Which one would look the best do you suppose? Assuming function will be the same.

Casey

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jun 18, 2019 10:19 am
by OrangeQuest
Casey I think they all would function the same but far right and center in the picture is what I thing could work the best with the space I have. The Suzuki outboard I want uses the one on the left.

4967

I seem to have read somewhere that the steering cable can move from 8" to 10" which that doesn't mean to turn the motor I would need that much. I did make sure there would be room for the motor to tilt all the way up just forgot it also has to be turned to steer! :doh:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jun 18, 2019 10:23 am
by flyfishingmonk
OrangeQuest wrote: Tue Jun 18, 2019 10:19 am Casey I think they all would function the same but far right and center in the picture is what I thing could work the best with the space I have. The Suzuki outboard I want uses the one on the left.

4967

I seem to have read somewhere that the steering cable can move from 8" to 10" which that doesn't mean to turn the motor I would need that much. I did make sure there would be room for the motor to tilt all the way up just forgot it also has to be turned to steer! :doh:
If you like tinkering, go the hard route. If you want on the water, go the fastest. Either way it is going to be a nice looking set up from looking at those pics.

Casey

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jun 18, 2019 4:36 pm
by OrangeQuest
flyfishingmonk wrote: Tue Jun 18, 2019 10:23 am
If you like tinkering, go the hard route. If you want on the water, go the fastest. Either way it is going to be a nice looking set up from looking at those pics.

Casey
Hmm, :oops: I have been tinkering with the whole boat from bow to stern! :lol: :lol:

I like the through the engine mount the best. I will do some measuring tomorrow when I get to work and see how much I have to tinker with!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jun 26, 2019 9:17 pm
by OrangeQuest
The EVA foam I ordered at the beginning of the month finally got here! It was in a roll so I have it laying in the hull resting to go flat again. The foam I ordered is thicker and stronger than the art supply and I think it will work nicely for what I will use it for. Now if only I can find some time.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jun 26, 2019 9:38 pm
by flyfishingmonk
Time. Yes, it seems to be the hard item to find for large projects.

Casey

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jun 27, 2019 8:52 am
by Bogieman
Glad you got your foam. I'm curious to see how it works

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jun 27, 2019 9:34 am
by OrangeQuest
I just compared the sheet of EVA foam to the samples I got from SeaDek and the SeaDek seems to be of the same hardness as the EVA foam by just pinching each of them. The SeaDek seems to bounce back a little faster. The SeaDek has one side that is rough and has slight grooves cut into it where as the EVA foam has both sides smooth. The EVA foam only comes in white or black in the hardness I bought but you can get harder EVA foam but only in black.

One of the areas I want to cover is inside the forward anchor locker when handling tackle in rough seas and trying to stow the anchor and chain, it doesn't chip away at the glass. The other place I want to use it is to cover the forward bench. Standing or kneeling on it will be very high traction and comfy on my old knees. Stains can be bleached or scrubbed out easily enough. Our SUP boards get a lot of stains from red clay.

The same amount of covering from SeaDek is in the $$$ and the same thickness was less than $10.00 for the EVA foam and it states it is UV resistant. We shall see. :doh:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jun 27, 2019 12:20 pm
by BassMunn
Looking forward to seeing the EVA on your boat. Are you going to use a router on the stuff or just cut it with a stanley knife?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jun 27, 2019 1:46 pm
by OrangeQuest
BassMunn wrote: Thu Jun 27, 2019 12:20 pm Looking forward to seeing the EVA on your boat. Are you going to use a router on the stuff or just cut it with a stanley knife?
For covering the inside of the anchor locker just a razor knife but I may try the router for the pad on the forward seat. The young lady that manages my schedule says I should be free Sunday. If all employees show up then I will be and she is not know for being wrong! :D

I have used a sander also to bevel the edge of the foam. I will just have to play with it.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 28, 2019 8:37 am
by OrangeQuest
I may not get to play to much with the foam anytime soon. The forward bench will be storage for the battery and then each side of the battery will be storage for other things. Still undecided on how to access under the bench. Also want to finish getting the cleats cut, marked and then glued up. Put into the budget the last few sheets of plywood to finish the build and starting to look at control cables and steering to install into the console.

I want to flip the boat and get the bottom and the sides sealed and painted before the console goes in. Also want to do a water test to see how the boat will trim. The idea of using the water tanks in the aft end is to be used as ballast when needed and not have to shift gear around. That said the boat needs to be bow heavy with just me in the boat so it then is trimmed with a second person and/or water in the wells. Not to many small boat have the ability to add an extra 170 pounds to the aft end with the flip of a switch. :wink:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 28, 2019 9:01 am
by Bogieman
I think you just might be building a space ship :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 28, 2019 8:24 pm
by OrangeQuest
Bogieman wrote: Fri Jun 28, 2019 9:01 am I think you just might be building a space ship :lol:
:lol: :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jul 06, 2019 6:09 pm
by OrangeQuest
So I have been going to the warehouse at 5:30-6:00 every morning to work in the cool morning air. I have been cleaning up the work bench area and the rest of the warehouse and finally found the workbench! I was to be off work today but went in anyway and go the build outside so I could reach the port side to sand down the areas for the cleats. I still have a few to cut but the sanding of the glass and tape is done. So I snapped a quick picture and pushed it back in.
5137

Just in time too cause one venue with a few new employees was having all kinds of problems.

The picture is of the cleats clamped in place and labeled where they go. I think I did they about a month ago and have two labeled. "EP and ES" but there is one big one that goes just in front of the aft sole drain. Could not remember where they went till I looked at the picture. They go on the outsides of the stringers in front of the drain.

Will be getting the plywood for the sole and console before the end of July!!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jul 06, 2019 11:46 pm
by glossieblack
Nice. :D Getting the sole down will be a big milestone.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jul 07, 2019 7:11 am
by OrangeQuest
Yes, getting the sole down will be a milestone but there is a lot of work still needed before it will be glued in place. The boat already has enough floatation in the aft section for the weight of the motor but would like to get some more under the sole. Would like to get enough buoyancy to keep the shear line above the surface of the water if the boat where to get swamped some how then a little rocking back and forth it splashes the water out enough for the pumps to get her back to normal water line. A trick used with sit inside kayaks and canoes.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jul 07, 2019 8:06 am
by Bogieman
:D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jul 07, 2019 9:20 pm
by OrangeQuest
Looks like I finally got all my cleats cut, trimmed and labeled for under the sole. Since the work bench is still clean I may try to get the cleats all neat coated and glued in on the same day or till I run out of clamps. :D

My office manager is going on vacation for 3 days so nothing is on the books for this week, I may have a little free time!!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jul 07, 2019 9:31 pm
by Aripeka Angler
I get more done when the office staff is on vacation.
Nice work, keep on building. :)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jul 11, 2019 6:58 am
by OrangeQuest
AA this young lady is a admin assistant but runs the show. With her gone the office is pretty much closed other than me answering the phones. I had one new hire that his second day was to much for him so he didn't come to work the next day. So I now have to figure out who to replace him with and how that works. :doh:

So I finished cutting, trimming and labeling all the cleats for under the sole and cut out the starboard side of the sole. This morning I came in and neat coated all the cleats and tomorrow will rough sand where they will get glued into place. I don't have enough clamps to glue them all in at once so over a few days that process will begin.

I have a newer phone and can't seem to get my photos of anything to load on the web site, so, not pictures.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jul 11, 2019 7:25 am
by glossieblack
Progress is progress, photos or not. Build on. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jul 12, 2019 10:02 am
by OrangeQuest
With the admin assistant being gone for the week I was thinking I would have a little more free time but that is not the case. I am having to do a little of her job and it is a lot of work. I doesn't help I don't know what I am doing but still very hard. Anyway...

I came in very early yesterday morning and had a few hours before sunrise and the frigid temps were still below 90°and got all the cleats neatly coated with medium hardener then by noon they were ready for rough sanding as the warehouse temps climbed into a more comfortable 104°.

This morning I final fitted enough of the cleats to glue them in today. As they were fitted I added tape to the top of them so I just have to squirt the WFE glue on them, spread and then clamp. Will be switching over to slow hardener for this part. It is to close for the time employees start showing up so will have to wait till I get back from dropping them off. I think the only thing I do for the office today is answer phones but even that seems like work.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jul 12, 2019 12:03 pm
by Jeff
Good progress OQ!! You gotta love those TX frigid temps!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jul 12, 2019 1:28 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thanks Jeff! These temps I get about 8 minutes before a small batch of neat epoxy starts to kick with med hardener. The stuff pours like water and soaks into the wood like water. Which for sealing the wood it is perfect. I used slow hardener for making my glue and applied it just before 10 and here at 12:30 it is soft/hard. I could feel the baggie heating up at about 15 minutes and I was moving the glue around in the bag. I am making 71/72 gram batches by weight and don't have much working time for an old guy! :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jul 12, 2019 2:10 pm
by Jeff
OQ, with those temps, it is hard work for any of us!!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jul 12, 2019 3:48 pm
by Jaysen
you know... I'm thinking there's a way to make that work. Smaller sections of glass so you are only mixing 3-6oz of epoxy. Soak the glass and put on the hull. If you are creative you diy the glass a little and make it look like a quilt or a mosaic!

I need to quit listening to the wife's plans for decorating things.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jul 12, 2019 5:10 pm
by Bogieman
I feel your pain OQ! Last week I had a couple small batches of slow speed neat epoxy( mixed w/ microballoons for fairing) kick on me before I was able to get it all down. Hate when it happens.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jul 12, 2019 8:22 pm
by OrangeQuest
Jaysen wrote: Fri Jul 12, 2019 3:48 pm you know... I'm thinking there's a way to make that work. Smaller sections of glass so you are only mixing 3-6oz of epoxy. Soak the glass and put on the hull. If you are creative you diy the glass a little and make it look like a quilt or a mosaic!

I need to quit listening to the wife's plans for decorating things.
My batches are close to that.72 grams is a little over 2 oz. But I am making glue for my cleats. I use a zip lock bag with the corner cut and squeeze the glue out on the cleat, spread it out then and repeat for the stringer/frame. Tape across the top holds them in place so I can do both sides before clamping. Align them where I want then clamp. I was able to do about 6 sets before I couldn't squeeze out anymore. Box fan to blow warm air across the boat so I don't get to cold. Once the temp gauge gets in the 3 digits I seek cold beer. But with my help on vacation add answering phones and baby sitting employees.

With it being Friday a lot of the employees calling in saying they can't work so I also scramble to get other employees on payroll and work the weekend. The part of her job I didn't know to much about. The grumpy old man in me would not let them work the next weekend if they cancel the day before but she will let them so I did too. Some of them was shocked I answered the phone!!! :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jul 12, 2019 8:35 pm
by Jaysen
No angry leprechaun?

Seems wrong somehow.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jul 12, 2019 9:33 pm
by OrangeQuest
I have a very simple system. Show up for work or not. If it is not then you will not be asked again.

Had one employee call in and said she couldn't work Saturday due to her other employer asked her to work a few hours. So I told her I got her shift covered for both Saturday and Sunday. She said she could work Sunday. I told her she also said she could work Saturday but now she can't so I don't want to wait to find out she can't work Sunday so I got both days covered. She has the whole weekend off now. It is that simple.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jul 14, 2019 3:55 am
by OrangeQuest
New smart phone has like six cameras and takes all kinds of fancy pictures but it takes me awhile to just take a plain picture. Since it is a smart phone it also keeps "learning" how I use the phone and changes my setting and I have to chase the setting all over before I can find the one to change it back to not super enhance the pictures when I share them. BIG PAIN!

I came in to the warehouse while it was still cool and got some more cleats in. When the warehouse starts to heat up that slow hardener will cure pretty quick and I may be able to get the last four cleats in today.
5203
I am close to the limit of my collection of small clamps but can't do but a few cleats at a time due to dripping the epoxy everywhere. The boat gets pretty small with me squatted down in it. So I do a few and bail out. Wait for the epoxy to set enough so I can climb in there again with my clamp tray and epoxy tray.

Oh, the temps are a crisp 83° at 3:00 A.M.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jul 14, 2019 4:18 am
by glossieblack
Methodically getting closer to sole down! Looking good! :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jul 14, 2019 7:26 am
by OrangeQuest
glossieblack wrote: Sun Jul 14, 2019 4:18 am Methodically getting closer to sole down! Looking good! :D
I have one side cut already, just needs to be trimmed and the edge sanded at a bevel.

I was going to do the sole in 3 parts. From stringers out and then one piece in the center.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jul 14, 2019 8:26 pm
by OrangeQuest
So with the sole getting closer to be glued down I am once again thinking of the wiring in the stern. I still need to over drill and drill holes to mount the terminal blocks. Also I went to finish connecting the sole bilge pump to its wiring and the little 3 pin connectors I got are to small so looking at a small 3 pin connector to tuck inside the junction box that is inside the bilge. I want the wiring accessible via a deck plate. Once the sole is down there will be an 8" plate and then behind a 2" plate the connector. Minor set back. Also made a block that will be glued into the transom well so I can bolt the terminal block for the 4 gauge starter wires to connect to. There is a small piece of trim that will be a deflector that goes across the front of the splash well so a wave breeches the transom into the well the wave is deflected back into the motor well. It also makes the front of the well thicker than the 9mm ply it is made of. I think it gives it a more finished look. Anyway, that little piece was made last year and I finally coated it with neat epoxy. Had just enough neat left to do it. It doesn't get glued into place till all the fairing is done to the inside of the motor well so was in no hurry. It has been taped in place since I made it so I won't lose it. Now it's loose on the work bench 8O

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jul 17, 2019 3:33 am
by OrangeQuest
Got up early to get to work so I'll have a few hours of quiet cool time to climb around the inside of the boat. I have only 4 more cleats to glue in and I will call it done.
5259

These go just above the inside chine and are smaller pieces of cedar. You can see them roughly in the picture. You can also see my clamp box. Found it easier just to put them all in a box as I pulled them off verses just putting them down. With these being the outer most cleats I should be able to put a board for my knees to rest on rather than the top of the 9mm stringers. If they get glued today then I may get the last two sheets of plywood later this week that will be needed to finish the build.
5258
Here is my wave deflector at the front of the motor well. There is still a lot of fairing to be done here and patching that hole. For now the piece gets taped into place so I don't lose it or use it some where else.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jul 17, 2019 9:18 am
by Bogieman
Nice, OQ!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jul 17, 2019 11:02 am
by Jeff
Agree with Bogie, nice OQ!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jul 17, 2019 7:43 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thanks guys. Didn't get anything but work done today!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jul 26, 2019 5:00 am
by OrangeQuest
For some reason, work for me is really busy. We have been having great weather so full operation at one venue 7 days a week. I am short one driver so I am the guy. I have been coming in before day light to take advantage of the cooler morning but it is to do company work. WTH? Then drive, drop off in the mid morning and pick up late evening. Interviewing for more employees in between. Hired 8 more people this week and a DRIVER!! Checking his skills today and if he can do it then I have me a driver. If my heart holds up I can start guiding tours again! Been pushing the old muscle on my bike so I am getting ready. My assistant is leaving in January so a lot of policy updating and new task assignments. I come up with rough drafts, which to her it may be just a bunch of grunts and mumbling but she then turns my thoughts to words that everyone can understand. (You can tell by most of my posts she doesn't help me on them) :doh: Some of you guys know that women can get into your head and start reading your thoughts so she puts them in words for me! Needless to say not much boat building going on here.


I am ready to glue in the cleats that go along the inside chine line, just above it. The cleats were cut straight but must be forced to follow the curve of the side of the boat, at an angle. I rough cut the angle but just haven't played with how to clamp the cleats in place. May need to wait for cooler weather and we slow down some.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jul 26, 2019 9:57 am
by Bogieman
8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jul 31, 2019 6:11 pm
by OrangeQuest
Finally I was able to climb into the boat and smooth off the tops of all the cleats. Ready to fill the outside of the stringers with foam. If my foam is still any good.
Edit: Added picture

5322

Looks like I need to add one more frame from the picture. I will need to measure tomorrow and make sure.


There are already 7 frames, 3 more than the plans call for! 8O

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Aug 01, 2019 4:42 am
by glossieblack
Is the extra frame to position the end of the chase tubes>

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Aug 01, 2019 5:25 am
by OrangeQuest
glossieblack wrote: Thu Aug 01, 2019 4:42 am Is the extra frame to position the end of the chase tubes>
Yes, I already have a template cut with the holes for the tubes to go into. But the frame will not go in till I know the exact location of the console.
The angle of the picture makes it look like there is more room between frame B and C but if I remember it is less than 28". So the finish frame will not be to far from frame "C". The lowest tube is the drain from the foredeck to the bilge.

The sole will be laid in 3 pieces, first two,go from the stringers to the chine. That way I can move the console fore and aft. I need the boat to trim bow heavy when solo so the tanks can be used as ballast or with a one person crew. She will be as much a fishing boat as a utility boat.

Edit: The space between frame B and C is more than 40" so there will be another frame added. So before the sides of the sole are glued in I need to do the trim test. :doh:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Aug 02, 2019 8:01 pm
by OrangeQuest
Since the warehouse seems to be staying in the low 90s even at night I have been trying to get an hour or so in before daylight. I have been using the early morning cooler air to get an hour in on my bike. Diet modification and the bike I have lost little over 35 pounds. Few more pounds and I will be what I weighed out of high school.
Have a lot of little tasks that need to be done on the boat and just to hot to do much. Trying to control my blood pressure without the drugs that make me to dizzy to function. My body is starting to feel really good for a change.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Aug 02, 2019 9:44 pm
by Bogieman
OrangeQuest wrote: Fri Aug 02, 2019 8:01 pm Since the warehouse seems to be staying in the low 90s even at night I have been trying to get an hour or so in before daylight. I have been using the early morning cooler air to get an hour in on my bike. Diet modification and the bike I have lost little over 35 pounds. Few more pounds and I will be what I weighed out of high school.
Have a lot of little tasks that need to be done on the boat and just to hot to do much. Trying to control my blood pressure without the drugs that make me to dizzy to function. My body is starting to feel really good for a change.
Nice OQ!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Aug 03, 2019 3:36 am
by narfi
Very nice!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Aug 11, 2019 5:56 am
by OrangeQuest
Not much boat building going on, just going past it as I have been busy getting the company ready for the end of our summer season. The company was founded on doing kayak tours down Buffalo Bayou. Since the bayou was hit 4 or 5 years in a row with heavy flooding she was looking very torn up so we got away from them. Because my health has really improved and I needed to get more guides trained to lead tours I have been leading employees down the bayou training them. I must say she has really recovered a lot considering how bad she looked last year, flying past everything in the gas powered canoe.


So this fall we will get back into doing paddle tours down the bayou, I am very excited that I may lead a few of them. Paddling is why I joined the company to start with, not manage it (I hired an assistant to do that). Funny thing is I haven't really paddled in 3 or 4 years and MY guide boat is called a "river boat" or "play boat". It is a longer white water boat with a dry storage compartment for longer river runs and a deployable skeg for longer flat water paddles. Works great for leading slow moving tours because you can spin 180°with one stroke and not lose forward movement, to face customers when talking to them. The hull speed is only about 4-4.5 mph, so you can't really go fast in it but current is no problem. All the new guides were 40 years or more younger and they were having a hard time keeping up with this old man. :lol: :lol:

5356

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Aug 11, 2019 8:24 am
by Capt UB
Thought you could relate.... :wink:

You must have had a few customers like this..

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_ ... 4331751267

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Aug 11, 2019 3:29 pm
by OrangeQuest
Capt UB wrote: Sun Aug 11, 2019 8:24 am Thought you could relate.... :wink:

You must have had a few customers like this..

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_ ... 4331751267
:lol: :lol:

We do not let them be like that! We are there to help get them in and out of the boats. That is why I need so many employees!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Aug 12, 2019 9:13 am
by Jeff
OQ, How is your weather, hot?? Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Aug 12, 2019 10:22 am
by OrangeQuest
Jeff wrote: Mon Aug 12, 2019 9:13 am OQ, How is your weather, hot?? Jeff

A lot of clear skies and heat index is 110°-115° daily. Humidity is mid to high 80s %. Very easy to post cure the boat in the warehouse. :lol:

Employees are consuming 8 to 10 large bottles of drinking water a month. We have a service that delivers. Cold beer goes down quick!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Aug 12, 2019 10:48 am
by Jeff
OQ, about the same here!!! Just way too hot!!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Aug 12, 2019 8:06 pm
by Bogieman
OrangeQuest wrote: Mon Aug 12, 2019 10:22 am
Jeff wrote: Mon Aug 12, 2019 9:13 am OQ, How is your weather, hot?? Jeff

A lot of clear skies and heat index is 110°-115° daily. Humidity is mid to high 80s %. Very easy to post cure the boat in the warehouse. :lol:

Employees are consuming 8 to 10 large bottles of drinking water a month. We have a service that delivers. Cold beer goes down quick!
:D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Aug 13, 2019 8:57 am
by Salty F17
8) same here it's extra hot in the south right now and every thing does cure fast .ofcourse beer is a must cant build the boat with out beer its part of the Bom or was i the only only one who saw that :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Aug 13, 2019 11:33 am
by Bogieman
Salty F17 wrote: Tue Aug 13, 2019 8:57 am 8) same here it's extra hot in the south right now and every thing does cure fast .ofcourse beer is a must cant build the boat with out beer its part of the Bom or was i the only only one who saw that :lol:
It's on my BOM too :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Aug 13, 2019 12:02 pm
by Jaysen
I’m glad we all saw Beer to Order Monthly. I had to make mine a BOW though.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Aug 13, 2019 12:50 pm
by OrangeQuest
Bogieman wrote: Tue Aug 13, 2019 11:33 am
Salty F17 wrote: Tue Aug 13, 2019 8:57 am 8) same here it's extra hot in the south right now and every thing does cure fast .ofcourse beer is a must cant build the boat with out beer its part of the Bom or was i the only only one who saw that :lol:
It's on my BOM too :lol:
:lol: :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Aug 13, 2019 3:22 pm
by cape man
In the year and a half that it took to build my OD18 I discovered it took 5 gallons of home brewed beer for each gallon of epoxy used. I ended up using 22.5 gallons of epoxy!!!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Aug 13, 2019 3:46 pm
by Jaysen
cape man wrote: Tue Aug 13, 2019 3:22 pm In the year and a half that it took to build my OD18 I discovered it took 5 gallons of home brewed beer for each gallon of epoxy used. I ended up using 22.5 gallons of epoxy!!!
(22.5*5)/(365.25*1.5) = a very slow party

:P

About 1.642710472279261 pints per day.... That's about 3 seconds at boogies house....

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Aug 13, 2019 4:53 pm
by cape man
I should also point out that I had a lot of help...mostly with the drinking of the home brew. :help:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Aug 13, 2019 7:25 pm
by OrangeQuest
Someone needs to come up with a Boat Builder's Brew! BBB

:lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Aug 13, 2019 10:26 pm
by Fuzz
OrangeQuest wrote: Tue Aug 13, 2019 7:25 pm Someone needs to come up with a Boat Builder's Brew! BBB

:lol:
Some one"Capeman" did and used it to lure me into coming to a builders meet. He made good on the beer and it was worth the trip 8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Aug 14, 2019 6:47 pm
by OrangeQuest
So I ordered some 3 pin waterproof connectors to go into the conduit for the sole bilge pump but will not fit in the junction. They need to be big enough for the 14 gauge wire that I am using. It needs to be 14 gauge due to I don't want to drop below 5% voltage drop to the main bilge pump. I may go back to the micro connectors that I first got that are gold plated contacts and strip the insulation back so the wire itself can go into the hard shell and then just fill the space with 4200. The wiring on the pump side is 16-18 gauge and fits perfect. I love doing DIY wiring projects! :doh:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Aug 15, 2019 6:32 am
by cape man
normal_DSCN1745.jpg
normal_DSCN1745.jpg (19.8 KiB) Viewed 7919 times
The neck says Better Wet Sanding. The front label includes a Mark Twain quote..."Under certain circumstances profanity provides relief denied even to prayer".

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Aug 15, 2019 8:03 am
by OrangeQuest
cape man wrote: Thu Aug 15, 2019 6:32 am normal_DSCN1745.jpg

The neck says Better Wet Sanding. The front label includes a Mark Twain quote..."Under certain circumstances profanity provides relief denied even to prayer".
That is so cool!!! :lol: :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Aug 24, 2019 10:15 am
by OrangeQuest
This is the last weekend of summer before school starts on Monday. Things will slow down a lot and I can get back to the boat build.

Today I finished getting the main pump wired up. Many attempts with different connectors and more than $20.00 of funds. This block is the same thing everything else will be using. Simple and easy... :doh:
5380

Idea of access with a 8" deck plate.

5381
Few more things and can consider foaming and laying the sole !!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Aug 24, 2019 10:19 am
by Bogieman
Very nice, OQ! That's great news. Looking foward to more pics too

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Aug 24, 2019 12:58 pm
by OrangeQuest
Canceled all venues today due to a repeat forecast we have had all week and it starts raining at noon in my area. It hasn't started yet!! :? :(

With all the free time I started playing with my old expanding foam that is 8 months past good per manufacturer. 357g of each, high 90 degrees I was expecting a more violent reaction when I mixed the two together. Last year when the stuff was fresh you couldn't set the two parts close to each other with out a little action going on like two teenagers in love. But poured to two parts together, walked to the boat and poured. Age really does effect things that need to expand when played with! I went ahead and laid a plastic bag over the compartment and a board then with 6 gallon bucket of water. left, had a beer and came back the bucket was about 1/2 inch above the cleats. Stuff worked after all! 8O
5382

Took the mushroom top off and here it is...first compartment foamed in. I think I will do 3 more or I run out of foam and call it a day. The boat already has 2.0 gallons of foam in the aft section for the motor so this is the just in case stuff anyway. The few other compartments will be air tight ones so other than she getting blow up she should float if swamped.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Aug 24, 2019 3:35 pm
by Fuzz
Couple of wisdom nuggets in that post :D
Glad the foam worked out. I have been really lucky with having old stuff work just fine for me.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Aug 25, 2019 7:20 am
by topwater
I am not touching that one Fuzz :wink:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Aug 25, 2019 9:44 am
by Jaysen
topwater wrote: Sun Aug 25, 2019 7:20 am I am not touching that one Fuzz :wink:
Chicken

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Aug 25, 2019 10:05 am
by Bogieman
Jaysen wrote: Sun Aug 25, 2019 9:44 am
topwater wrote: Sun Aug 25, 2019 7:20 am I am not touching that one Fuzz :wink:
Chicken
With all that foam your boat will definitely float or maybe even LEVITATE!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Aug 25, 2019 12:51 pm
by OrangeQuest
Well a little more foam. This is all that I am putting in.
5383
I have just enough to put a little in under the foredeck lockers. Mainly to help channel any water towards the forward drain chase.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Sep 14, 2019 7:12 am
by OrangeQuest
Have not been spending a lot of time on the build, but I have made a little progress. I have been trying to get the clearance between the hatches and foredeck a little more consistent and evenly spaced but I think it is above my skill set. So I started to just fair it better. I am about ready to lay light glass over the hatches themselves and roll it off the edges. The deck is just screwed down for now to get the hatches where they need to be with the camber.

5433

I also gave up on using the foam for a seal. I think I am going to do it the same as I did for R/C boat decks that needed to be waterproofed but removeable. A excessive amount of marine grade sealant on the lip and release agent on the hatch. Lay the hatch in place loosely and let the sealant cure. Remove hatch and trim off run out. The seals don't have to be waterproof, just block most water from just running past. Can't see trying to keep a lot of water out of an anchor locker. :doh:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Sep 14, 2019 7:33 am
by glossieblack
Nice work OQ. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Sep 17, 2019 5:32 pm
by Bogieman
That looks really good, OQ!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Sep 18, 2019 4:48 am
by OrangeQuest
glossieblack wrote: Sat Sep 14, 2019 7:33 am Nice work OQ. :D
Bogieman wrote: Tue Sep 17, 2019 5:32 pm That looks really good, OQ!
Thanks guys!!

The hatches are off still and more fairing and more sanding. Lots more sanding...just on the underside of the hatches I have exhausted my will to sand. There is a lot of hand sanding and it is so much fun in the heat! :? I sand an hour or so then walk away, come back and then more sanding and I keep repeating that through out the day. Just keep the sand paper and hatches on the work bench.

We are having a small TS coming through and looks like it is dumping enough rain to close us down for this weekend, so I may get the deck back off and finish it.
I may even start working out the hangers for the anchor.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Sep 18, 2019 7:52 am
by Jeff
OQ, you stay safe out there as it appears a bunch of rain is going to hit your area for the next few days!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Sep 18, 2019 1:51 pm
by OrangeQuest
Jeff wrote: Wed Sep 18, 2019 7:52 am OQ, you stay safe out there as it appears a bunch of rain is going to hit your area for the next few days!!! Jeff

Thanks Jeff! The rain missed my area for the most part. It is a crazy storm, when it gets to the north side of it's rotation the rain fades away. Lucky for me I live on the west/southwest side of Houston. Our warehouse is also West of downtown by about a mile. It has already gotten more than 4" since Tuesday. Blow a trash can lid across the parking lot also. My assistant and I both are working from home. She laughed when I told her I too was working from home. I am working on Call of Duty II 8)

I went in for a few hours this morning and did more fairing on the hatches. Also pulled the foredeck off and glued small blocks for the latch strikers to mount to. Used slow hardener so should be good to go in the AM.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Sep 18, 2019 3:32 pm
by Jeff
Glad all is good OQ!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Sep 19, 2019 10:36 pm
by Fuzz
OQ are you still doing OK? The news sounds like the whole city is flooding again :help:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Sep 20, 2019 5:27 am
by OrangeQuest
Fuzz wrote: Thu Sep 19, 2019 10:36 pm OQ are you still doing OK? The news sounds like the whole city is flooding again :help:
Yes, Thank you Fuzz! We got hit pretty hard yesterday. Lot of rain in a short time caused the bayous to swell to flood stage. Our bayou went from 150cfs to over 8000cfs in just over an hour. Streets flooded and traffic gridlocked. I left the warehouse a little after 1 and got home 2 hours later.

Our bayous are used as big drainage ditches but there is no elevation change. Example. 20 miles from the dams to sea level with less than 100 feet elevation change (71.05 feet) with the top of the spillway at 104 feet. They design the streets to drain into the bayous quickly but it's at sea level so it just backs up. Here is a few graphs to show what Buffalo Bayou did yesterday. You can see the dams have their flood gates closed and holding a lot of the water back. Once the rain goes away they will drain the water off at about 2000cfs. If there is more rain in the forecast they will drain them at 2500 to 3000cfs. Even at that much water it still only moves at less than 5mph, it is just a lot of water moving slowly to sea level. By the way, once it reaches sea level it almost stops moving. The feet in the graphs is above sea level.

https://water.weather.gov/ahps2/river.p ... hydrograph

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Sep 20, 2019 7:24 am
by Jeff
OQ, in the end, did you and your business do ok? It appears so many in the greater Houston area did not do well with the flooding!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Sep 20, 2019 9:06 am
by OrangeQuest
Jeff wrote: Fri Sep 20, 2019 7:24 am OQ, in the end, did you and your business do ok? It appears so many in the greater Houston area did not do well with the flooding!!! Jeff
My assistant and I were planning on leaving the warehouse at noon but the rain let loose at around 10:30. I had been watching radar all morning and a lot of moisture came in from the west like a freight train. Caught us both off guard. Within minutes the Interstate 10 corridor was flooded. All week the rain was staying north East of us but this thing just formed and then dumped a lot of water like a water balloon popped!

She heads south east and she had an opening around 1:00 so she made it safely. I head west towards all the flooding. :?

Canceled all bayou events and it was a big weekend with two back to back tours and a clean up on another bayou. But we should be ok.

Thanks for asking Jeff!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Sep 20, 2019 9:19 am
by Capt UB
Hope all works out. Watching the news and weather for your area :(

Don't know how I can help, but if you need another FS14 builders help, just ask.

Bob

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Sep 20, 2019 9:20 am
by Jeff
Goog OQ, glad for you guys!! I must admit, it looks horrible out there (Houston greater area) watching the Weather Channel!!! Stay safe, Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Sep 20, 2019 10:52 am
by piperdown
Stay safe OQ!!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Sep 20, 2019 1:27 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thanks guys! The news always makes things look worst than they are.

A little while ago I walked into a store with the sun shining. Few seconds there was a down pour! 8O Now the sun is back out.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Sep 20, 2019 3:06 pm
by Jeff
Crazy weather OQ!! Just glad you did good!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Sep 20, 2019 7:01 pm
by OrangeQuest
It has not been to bad for us when you guys seem to keep getting storm after storm Jeff.

Since we had a little rain I did find the time to start on the mounts in the anchor locker. Just a couple of hangers to keep the anchor stowed and easy access. Here are a few scrap pieces of 9mm marine ply that I draw a pattern on and stack 4 on top of each other and cut on the scroll saw. I sanded all the rough edges while they were still screwed together. ( I just noticed the top of the work bench is getting to many holes in it!)

5460
5461

Once I pulled them apart, I paired them up, neat epoxy coated and then glued them together. When I pulled the screws out I used bamboo skewers to re-align them. Will see what my mess looks like in the morning. :doh:
I also drilled a drain hole for the foredeck lockers. The drain tube runs under the battery lock which will also run into the drain tube. Is it me or do I always find a very complex way to do something simple? 8O :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Sep 22, 2019 12:51 pm
by OrangeQuest
flyfishingmonk wrote: Sun Sep 22, 2019 12:24 am

I keep running out of woodworking stuff to do and finding myself needing to mess with epoxy. I prefer the woodworking over the epoxy. :?

Me too! Flyfishingmonk I did not want to hijack your build thread so posted this on my own.

I love working with the wood and epoxy, since I use a lot of wood glue on my little wood projects. The thing I hate about epoxy is I find it seems to go everywhere!
5473

I don't know how it got on this end of the clamps :doh:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Sep 22, 2019 11:36 pm
by flyfishingmonk
Isn't that the truth! Just a few days ago I found a whole mess of it on my bandsaw base. The clamps must have a combined 1/2 gallon on them.

Casey

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Sep 23, 2019 7:01 am
by Capt UB
Somewhere on this forum there is a photo of spring clamps and c-clamps with painter's tape on them. If I remember right, nothing was said about the tape covered clamps. Not a bad idea, all the same.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Sep 23, 2019 10:20 am
by Bogieman
8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Sep 23, 2019 11:35 am
by flyfishingmonk
I often times cover my C claps with masking tape on the ends. For the wood clamps, like the Jorgensen Wood Clamps, I sometimes cover 80% or so of the whole clamp.

Casey

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Sep 23, 2019 12:41 pm
by Capt UB
flyfishingmonk wrote: Mon Sep 23, 2019 11:35 am I often times cover my C claps with masking tape on the ends. For the wood clamps, like the Jorgensen Wood Clamps, I sometimes cover 80% or so of the whole clamp.

Casey
I think on your 18 build I saw that done.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Sep 23, 2019 10:31 pm
by flyfishingmonk
Capt UB wrote: Mon Sep 23, 2019 12:41 pm
flyfishingmonk wrote: Mon Sep 23, 2019 11:35 am I often times cover my C claps with masking tape on the ends. For the wood clamps, like the Jorgensen Wood Clamps, I sometimes cover 80% or so of the whole clamp.

Casey
I think on your 18 build I saw that done.
It seems to do the trick. Another spot I sometimes cover on the C claps are the threads. Man getting epoxy out of those threads is a real challenge!

Casey

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Sep 24, 2019 4:33 am
by OrangeQuest
I have my boat stored under a rack with just enough head room to walk under and when I was doing some of my fillets I would find epoxy filler stuck to the kayaks overhead :doh:

I have put tape on my clamps where they will be touching the epoxy but drips, spatters and flings are something that I would run out of tape if I tried to protect everything. Then there is the issue with getting epoxy on my gloves and touch the clamps or anything else without knowing the stuff is there.

I don't seem to have many issues with neat epoxy, it is when fillers are added that things seem to start getting a little wild!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Sep 24, 2019 5:44 am
by Capt UB
You just never know where the epoxy will drip or fall... My dog fell asleep on a little bit of epoxy on the floor!!! Had to cut a 2x2 of fur off of her.

Anyway, maybe we all can get back to building with the weather changing!!!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Oct 01, 2019 3:45 am
by OrangeQuest
I have been having problems loading pictures but was able to load pictures to facebook, then save them from there back to my cloud and then upload them. But it works!

Here is the ground tackle in it's place.
5530

There is enough room to add the storm anchor mounts as well but will hold off for now.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Oct 01, 2019 7:26 am
by Jeff
Nice work OQ!! How bad is the heat out there in the greater Houston area?? Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Oct 01, 2019 8:21 am
by OrangeQuest
Thanks Jeff!

The heat hasn't been to bad. We have had a few early mornings that the temps dropped in the lower 80's.I think one day even high 70s. A lot of people are breaking out the winter coats. :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Oct 01, 2019 8:30 am
by Jeff
Nice OQ!!! You just stay warm out there!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Nov 27, 2019 7:48 am
by pee wee
Any progress to share?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Nov 27, 2019 8:09 am
by OrangeQuest
Looks like my boat build went into hibernation for the winter. Lost a venue with storage in a very bad spot on the bayou, which means 22 more boats and gear are now packed into the warehouse. We do have a better location for our Buffalo Bayou Park venue but it means I have all our boat fleets (60+ boats and gear) being stored at the warehouse, permanently! Also lost my assistant leaving me with no one to help move the gear around or the office work. :cry:
I have all incoming calls coming to the company cell phone so I can still be mobile but hard to hear it ring and run the power sprayer to clean gear, I wear ear buds now that fall out a lot. Also have to stop and answer emails now, along with keeping up with social media posts.

Not sure if the dust in the boat is from sanding or just not being worked on in over a month, so I put the cover on it. I can pull 2 fully loaded boat trailers and then the motorized canoe out to gain access to the tongue of my boat. I can then pull it out and work on it. But don't see having the time or extra energy to do all that for a few hours and then put it all back.

Never know how much an assistant does or how much they are needed till you just don't have one. Especially when you have had a really good one.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Nov 27, 2019 8:22 am
by Jeff
OQ, sorry to hear the news but it is good to hear from you!!! I hope you are able to find another good assistant!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Nov 27, 2019 9:54 am
by pee wee
Sounds like a cascade of problems that need to be dissected and tackled in order and as time allows. Hope you remedy the lack of a good assistant, that's a big one.

Good luck, that's a handful!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Nov 27, 2019 10:25 am
by narfi
OrangeQuest wrote: Wed Nov 27, 2019 8:09 am
I have all incoming calls coming to the company cell phone so I can still be mobile but hard to hear it ring and run the power sprayer to clean gear, I wear ear buds now that fall out a lot. .
I really like my "3M Worktunes" they bluetooth to my phone and are full on earmuffs when working around noise.
I use them to listen to audiobooks while working on the powerhouse or sending etc....
They were imo cheap at $50 from Costco or amazon.

I also use a smartwatch that vibrates for calls on my wrist and never have a ringer on my phone at all, just the phone and wrist vibrate and if earmuffs on ring in them.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Nov 27, 2019 10:39 am
by OrangeQuest
Look over the paddles, the green mats and the yellow boats and you can just see the bow of my boat, there is a box on top of it. I have to move a lot of stuff just to touch the boat. When I have time I am going to take off the rack the 16.5 foot tour boats and replace them with the 13.5 foot rec boats. The extra 3 feet will give me room to walk by the rack and touch the bow of my boat! :lol: But will make it easier to get everything in and out.
5860

I have an old pair of Bluetooth earphones that work great and stay on my head while I am working. They last up to 12 hours with music. But when I am cleaning boats I need the phone close by due to having to push one to get the call to come through. To push the button I have to dry my hands to unlock the phone. Then most the time run into the office and pull up a screen on the web for reference or to note something on our calendar. This time of year we get a lot of calls, while everyone else is off, wanting to rent boats, book tours and do something. Weather here in Houston is running between mid 60s to high 70s. PERFECT paddling weather!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Nov 28, 2019 6:50 am
by Eric1
Good stuff Big Orange! I would not like to clean all those boats and man the phone and web!
Enjoy that beautiful weather Friend. :)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Nov 29, 2019 5:07 am
by OrangeQuest
Here are all but the canoes and the single boats we have. This is setup for the 2018 Buffalo Bayou Regatta. We will rent all our fleets out and then some for the race. It takes 10 employees less than 30 minutes to off load all the boats from the trailers and set them up for this event. Most the boats are double stacked. This is how we start our Spring Season in March. We have became the biggest outfitter for this event.
5861

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Nov 29, 2019 5:21 am
by glossieblack
Work is keeping you busy. Hope you can spring some free moments to continue the build. Regardless, sooner or later ....... :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Dec 03, 2019 6:25 pm
by Eric1
That's an armada of yaks!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Dec 04, 2019 7:25 am
by Jeff
Wow, what an inventory!!! Great stuff OQ!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Dec 16, 2019 10:33 am
by Capt UB
Saw this on another site, if it was a bit smaller I think it would work on your bow?

.
Cool looking..
1576510185955.jpg

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jan 02, 2020 4:32 am
by OrangeQuest
Capt UB wrote: Mon Dec 16, 2019 10:33 am Saw this on another site, if it was a bit smaller I think it would work on your bow?

.
Cool looking..

1576510185955.jpg

I checked on their website, they have no prices because each one is custom to specs. 8O I feel it is one of those things that is I ask need to ask for a price then I can't afford it! :?

I did look at some small electric anchor winches and I do have the room for one.

Work has slowed down but we have very high humidity every day in the form of very thick fog in the morning. The kind you walk outside and every thing is soaked before you can get to your vehicle.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jan 09, 2020 10:21 am
by OrangeQuest
Since the build is buried behind a couple a boat trailers and kayak rack.
5990

I can move a few things around, drag it out into the middle of the warehouse to work on it but with the weather and having to answer the phone and emails right now it is more effort than I want or have time for. Without an assistant I am standing by a computer/phone 7 days a week. But I did hookup our universal boat/utility trailer and buy the last two sheets of plywood needed to complete my boat. I may try and start building the console on my workbench. I still have my mock up of it and know how I want it to look. I need the scrap wood from it to build a middle seat in one of our canoes.

FYI, I buy local from a Mom and Pop lumber yard that are less than a mile from my warehouse. I like to support local if I can (I am also a small local business) and I saved in shipping costs. BBC is still cheaper than what I am getting local, one sheet each of Meranti (hydro) in 9mm and 6mm thickness.
Big difference is the "$0.00" for the freight, but it did cost me a buck in gas for the Kia Soul to get there and back! 8O

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jan 09, 2020 10:36 am
by Jeff
Good to hear from you OQ!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jan 10, 2020 12:31 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thank you Jeff, but I come on the BBC website daily. I check the progress on the few builders that post while drinking my morning coffee. Since I am stuck near a computer all day I also check several times a day. Sometimes I even leave a comment! :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jan 10, 2020 1:16 pm
by Jeff
OQ, when are you going to get an assistant? Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jan 10, 2020 2:56 pm
by Fuzz
I thought I had a bunch of stuff crammed into my shop but you have me beat OQ. Heres hoping to get some help and are able to get back on the boat soon.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jan 10, 2020 6:35 pm
by OrangeQuest
Jeff wrote: Fri Jan 10, 2020 1:16 pm OQ, when are you going to get an assistant? Jeff
The date keeps moving. Looks like it will be at the same time I will be trying to hire employees to fill venues positions, get gear ready for the big regatta and trying to train people at 3 different places all at the same time...No worries! :?
Fuzz wrote: Fri Jan 10, 2020 2:56 pm I thought I had a bunch of stuff crammed into my shop but you have me beat OQ. Heres hoping to get some help and are able to get back on the boat soon.
Thanks Fuzz!
I was a shipping manager at a printing company for 10 years, I know how to pack. It doesn't help that I also don't like to get rid of stuff and try to recycle everything! Crazy thing is I have a little OCD on making sure everything has a place and goes back in that place. Just wish I was like my first ex and had OCD keeping thing neat and clean. When I was married to her, I would have a mixed drink and put it on the coffee table (ON A COASTER) and if I got up to go to the bathroom or to do something she would pick it up, wash/dry it and put it away. I would come back in and ask about my glass!!?? She would tell me what she did and if I wanted another drink I could just use another glass...The woman was nuts of keeping everything tidy!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jan 11, 2020 9:51 am
by Bogieman
Man that's sad to see her covered up like that. Hope you get to work on her soon

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jan 22, 2020 8:47 am
by OrangeQuest
The rest of January and all of February and then most of March. I may then have some time to work on the build. :(

We have 100% humidity today with the temps in the low to mid 50s. The moisture is collecting enough to just fall out of the sky. It is not even a sprinkle but more of a heavy mist. Guess it could be worse, we could have iguanas falling out of the sky!! :lol: :lol: :wink: :roll:

Had raised a pair of iguanas from very small 10" to the biggest one was right at 4 feet. :cry: I miss those guys.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jan 22, 2020 5:13 pm
by glossieblack
While it's no doubt frustrating having her packed away, the tide will before you know it, and you'll be at her again with a spring in your step.

She's going to be lovely. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jan 23, 2020 8:52 am
by Jeff
I agree with GB!! It won't be long before you are back at it!!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jan 23, 2020 8:58 pm
by OrangeQuest
I do agree with you both GB and Jeff, I will some day, hopefully soon, get to work on her again.

Mean while I put in close to 90 hours a week sitting in front of a computer or wearing a phone on my hip. I can't operate any power tools for fear of not hearing the phone, even with ear phones on. The way our phone system works I have to unlock the phone to press one to get the calls to come through. Hard to do with gloves and epoxy or even just water on the hands. So not only do I not get to work on my boat but it's very hard for me to do my job of taking care of our gear. Gives me a greater respect of how much my last assistant did for me and the company. But her job wasn't so hard as I am trying to do them both now.

Now a study was in the news about how stress causes hair to turn grey faster, I have a daughter already. Mine has gone quickly past grey to white!! 8O

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jan 24, 2020 7:45 am
by Eric1
Hang in there OQ! Time will come to build. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Apr 07, 2020 9:56 am
by OrangeQuest
Since the outbreak started just as Houston started spring break our company closed and doesn't look like we will be re-opening anytime soon. I am officially unemployed now. But to keep the lease on the warehouse and other basic needs for the company, we are selling off our tour boat fleet. At 16.5 feet, times 10, they took up a lot of space. I was able to move the boat rack around, on wheels, and bring the build out towards the center of the warehouse. It gives me enough room to maybe start working on it again.

I pulled the cover off of it and looked it over, still trying to figure out where I left off since it was Oct of last year I stopped work on it. I think I was ready to finish cutting out the sole and getting it in. I can also start working on building the console. I am pretty sure I have all the plywood and glass I need. May even have enough for the inwale frames and gunnels.
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Notice the little 5hp outboard? It's off the canoe and it may be the motor used to see if the boat will float! :doh:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Apr 13, 2020 3:43 am
by glossieblack
OrangeQuest wrote: Tue Apr 07, 2020 9:56 am I pulled the cover off of it and looked it over, still trying to figure out where I left off since it was Oct of last year I stopped work on it. I think I was ready to finish cutting out the sole and getting it in.
Great to see you are getting back into it OQ.

Each time I've returned to Skinnydip building after a 3-6 month break to go sailing, I've been surprised how long it has taken me to recall the range, nature and extent of the multiple building strands that I had on the go before the break. It's a bit like catching up with old friends and a few serial pests. :wink:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Apr 13, 2020 5:54 am
by cape man
Good to see her again. Looking at the picture, you may consider turning the two outer hatches on the rear bench around so they open inwards, and make sure your gunwales and inwale are not too big to interfere with them opening. On my OD 18 I had to trim the corners of the two custom hatches on the forward deck as they caught the edge of the inwale once it was installed. You can transition the width of the gunwales aft to allow for them to open, which will also give you the full width of the bench.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Apr 13, 2020 7:08 am
by OrangeQuest
Thanks Glossieblack and Cape man!!


My goal is to finish the sole strainer, here at my apartment, so it can be glued in. Visits to the warehouse to cut the grass I will then ready the hull for the sole. The way I rearranged the warehouse, puts the boat front and center, so working on it is a lot easier. Easy access to power, lights and air!

Cape man, thank you for the insights! The hatches have enough room to open without hitting the gunwales, it's been checked and doubled checked... :doh: but I will look again when back at the warehouse. The hatches will rest on the gunwale when opened. The port hatch is the bait well and the starboard is a cooler. Here is a better picture:
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There has been a lot of work in this area since this picture. I was concerned for the reason you pointed out cape man, before even cutting the openings. I have been toying with the two aft hatches and which way they will open. Starboard is the aft anchor locker and the port is the control valve locker. The starboard side gets the mount for the anchor light and beside that a fairlead for the anchor line. The anchor light mount is a flush mount but when the pole is in place the hatch rests on it in the open position, without the pole, it will hit the fairlead. Maybe a line attached to it to limit it's travel?
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The more I look at my pictures the more I see still needing to be done! 8O

The weather is very mild and would like to start fairing the aft area so I maybe making more trips into work while still unemployed.

Still waiting on a loan to cover the lease on the warehouse and all the employees that have become unemployed, including me.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Apr 13, 2020 10:03 am
by OrangeQuest
Mild weather he said, mild weather!? Woke up to temps in the 50's!! :x No playing with epoxy today!


Edit: Just realized, I didn't bring any epoxy home anyway!! Can I get a break? :? :( :(

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Apr 17, 2020 6:31 am
by OrangeQuest
I forgot what a pain it was to try and do anything constructive in my apartment. I have a nice work bench for when I was trying to build my R/C tug but there just isn't enough room, lighting or tools here for full size boat work. I am struggling getting the "custom" strainer finished but knocking out a little a day. I may start going to work so I have everything at hand. Anyway, enough whining.

Using 1/32" thick birch plywood as the strainer bottoms to deflect water that enters the strainer outside the stringers. The strainer is 34" wide, or long, and so a few inches goes past the stringers on each side. To protect the wood I am using 4oz cloth on both sides. The outside cloth also helps hold the bottom to the strainer.

Everything is being done on my patio because I am so sloppy with epoxy. The whole thing slipped yesterday when I was putting the last piece of cloth on and now has some dirt in the epoxy. So today I will be doing some sanding and the last coat of epoxy to seal it all up. Then take it to work and glue it into place.

Since I closed the company due to the outbreak I will be the only person there. Can work uninterrupted and you would think that would make me happy...it doesn't.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Apr 17, 2020 7:11 am
by glossieblack
OrangeQuest wrote: Fri Apr 17, 2020 6:31 am Since I closed the company due to the outbreak I will be the only person there. Can work uninterrupted and you would think that would make me happy...it doesn't.
However it could make you content, if you seize as a sliver lining what the COVID-19 cloud has dumped on your business. You can't control the cloud, but you can control whether or not you seize or ignore silver linings on offer.

Why not launch into the most creative and productive phase of what has been a creative and productive build to date? :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Apr 17, 2020 8:13 am
by OrangeQuest
glossieblack wrote: Fri Apr 17, 2020 7:11 am
OrangeQuest wrote: Fri Apr 17, 2020 6:31 am Since I closed the company due to the outbreak I will be the only person there. Can work uninterrupted and you would think that would make me happy...it doesn't.
However it could make you content, if you seize as a sliver lining what the COVID-19 cloud has dumped on your business. You can't control the cloud, but you can control whether or not you seize or ignore silver linings on offer.

Why not launch into the most creative and productive phase of what has been a creative and productive build to date? :D
Thank you GB for the words of wisdom and advice. I did get the boat out so I can start up on her again. I can't let depression get the best of me. I also stock piled supplies so wouldn't need to spend to much to get going on her again. Would be great to get the hull finished and ready for paint during this outbreak. Thank you for the encouragement, it's what I needed! :wink:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Apr 18, 2020 1:21 pm
by OrangeQuest
Took Glossieblack's advice and went into work and did a little work on the boat. All pieces of the sole have been cut and ready for covering with a lite glass. I have a few cheats to coat and put in but all and all she has a floor!! More than 8 feet of floor!!
From the bow:
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Standing in the middle of the cockpit, you can see the cockpit strainer "34" X 4" of water collection.
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LAYING DOWN in the cockpit, view towards stern
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Laying towards the bow.
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One more!
Standing in the stern and view of the bow.
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Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Apr 18, 2020 3:38 pm
by Bogieman
Yes!!!! Great to see you back in action

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Apr 18, 2020 8:09 pm
by glossieblack
Standing and lying on a flat sole must have felt great. Enjoyment progress. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Apr 18, 2020 9:57 pm
by OrangeQuest
glossieblack wrote: Sat Apr 18, 2020 8:09 pm Standing and lying on a flat sole must have felt great. Enjoyment progress. :D
Yes it did!! Thank you for the encouragement to do what I needed to do.


Thanks Boogie! It really feels good working with my hands again other than on a keyboard and getting away from the phone.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Apr 19, 2020 9:16 am
by Dougster
That's kind of inspiring. Makes me think I need a project. Maybe next year the Port A boat show will happen and you'll bring that pretty thing. A boat with a sole is a fine thing. Yours will have a soul too :)

Dougster

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Apr 19, 2020 9:49 am
by Tom S.
That’s looking great!
What kind of hatches are those on the back?
And what did you use for hardware on your bow hatches?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Apr 19, 2020 11:19 am
by OrangeQuest
Tom S. wrote: Sun Apr 19, 2020 9:49 am That’s looking great!
What kind of hatches are those on the back?
And what did you use for hardware on your bow hatches?
Thanks Tom S!

The hatches are T-H Marine brand and because I needs 4 all of the same size I went cheap. Even the big hatch is a T-H Marine. They claim you can stand on them but they flex when I put my 200 pounds on them. After boat goes into service I will make the attempt to build my own hatches, they don't need gutters.

The hinges on the front hatches are made by Gemlux and I got them on a close out for like $3.00 each so I got 2 spare. They are double hinged and can open 180° so the hatches can lay flat when opened. Getting enough clearance for the hinge parts to move freely and still have a lip has been a big pain and the deck having a camber has not made it easy. I really like the look of the foredeck but it was not something I should have tackled on my first build of this size. But simple is just not in my wheelhouse. :?
https://www.gemlux.com/2190
I also have Gemlux slam latches. Love them, drill correct oversize hole, drill correct size hole and install. The catch is slotted so very easy to get it just right.
https://www.gemlux.com/5151-415-20MM
The ones I got I also ordered them during a close out sale, for like $8.00 each.

The foredeck is not glued down yet, I am still working on the drain and lockers up there. None of the hatches are expected to be water tight so all have drains into the bilge.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Apr 19, 2020 12:00 pm
by Tom S.
Thanks OQ , I just took a quick look at Gemlux. I like the idea of a friction hinge.
I was looking a Tempress hatches vertically for access in between the rear bulkhead and transom. And making my own hatches in the deck.
Your foredeck looks great, when something flows that nicely people just over look it and don’t know the labor intensity involved in accomplishing it. And hatches sure look labor intensive.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Apr 20, 2020 10:47 am
by OrangeQuest
TomS if you check back with the Gemlux website regularly you can get some really good deals on them...sometimes.


So I went into the warehouse today to cut out the hole for the deck plate that gives access to the bilge, the primary bilge. (nice view of the strainer too)
6336
I attached the deck plate mount with the #8X1/2" SS screws that will hold it down. Then removed the screws to over drill the mounting holes.
6337
I set up two folding tables, end to end, with sheets of plywood covered with plastic drop cloth. Cut 60" X 8.5' of 4 oz cloth, laid the sole pieces down on the table, then the glass, brushed the glass smooth. Took a 5 foot by 6 inch piece of plywood and rolled the glass around it so it stayed nice and straight and smooth. Taped one end of the glass to the table. Wet out all 3 pieces of the sole, unrolled the glass over the top of it and added neat epoxy. I also coated the few remaining cleats that will need to be glued in before the sole is glued down. I also left the inside edges of the sole without any epoxy so I can wet them out when the middle piece is glued in.
6338
Since I know I can't leave it alone if I stay there I came back home so it can set. Slow hardener was used so I had time to make any adjustments to the cloth but it's a "NO TOUCH" till morning.

The strainer sets just a little proud of the sole. Once the sole is glued down the strainer will be sanded down flush to the floor.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Apr 20, 2020 5:55 pm
by glossieblack
Great progress, nice details. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Apr 21, 2020 11:47 am
by OrangeQuest
Thanks GB, can't wait to see your new build get started!! Hope you are feeling a lot better.


Little more work on the hull before the sole gets glued in.
The last of the cleats and the strainer were glued in and are now waiting for the WFE glue to set. Again I used slow hardener so I took my time.
6352
Taped the top of the Strainer and frame E so no epoxy glue goes where it shouldn't. Close up of the strainer drain
6351

Before removing the tape I wiped any squeeze out off the corner where the two tapes edges meet. Just wanted to fill in the gap. No rounding fillets here. There will be fillets and tape towards the ends where the plywood meets. The bilge has already been painted so I laid paper down for drops. In case anyone was wondering, the pump discharge hose goes under the tank wells and out the port, stern side. There is a chase tube the hose goes in so the area under the wells could be filled with foam.

Under the wells just before the foam was poured:
6353
Gray, for wire, small white drain, larger white is for overflow of the cockpit drain and the flex pipe is for the discharge hose to go through. The green pool noodles were wrapped in plastic and removed after foam set for well tank drain fitting access.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Apr 21, 2020 12:02 pm
by Jeff
Good stuff OQ!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Apr 21, 2020 6:11 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thanks Jeff, it is exciting just doing something and I am happy it is working on the boat.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Apr 23, 2020 9:23 am
by OrangeQuest
Cut my first gunwale today and stumbled on an issue.
Should the gunwale be tapered to match the lines of the hatch ( cut at the black line) or the side like it is here?
6364
The inwale will be 6mm ply that will be thicker over the aft lockers and the be about 2" wide the length of the cockpit. The port side will have the actuator for controlling the tank wells.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Apr 23, 2020 9:39 am
by glossieblack
[quote=OrangeQuest post_id=468124 time=1587648206 user_id=81591
Should the gunwale be tapered to match the lines of the hatch
[/quote]

There is only one rule for the master builder ..... trust and execute what's right to your eye.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Apr 23, 2020 12:03 pm
by OrangeQuest
glossieblack wrote: Thu Apr 23, 2020 9:39 am [quote=OrangeQuest post_id=468124 time=1587648206 user_id=81591
Should the gunwale be tapered to match the lines of the hatch
There is only one rule for the master builder ..... trust and execute what's right to your eye.
[/quote]

Thanks GB, hope that goes for a novice builder too!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Apr 25, 2020 4:56 am
by OrangeQuest
Well, After playing with a scrap piece trimmed down that matches the lines of the hatches, it needs a little more something.

But I did pull the foredeck back off to flush trim the gunwale pieces to the rub rail. After looking at the pain it was to get the 180°hinges flush mounted to the deck and hatch, thinking I may fill it all back in again and replace the hinges with less complex ones. I was looking on GemLux's website and stubbled across small hinges on sale 70% off. So, I ordered enough to also replace all the plastic hatches in the stern too! But that maybe a project in the far future.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Apr 25, 2020 5:48 am
by glossieblack
Sounding good. Keep driving for a splash, then do the decimal point improvement stuff later, if it's still important.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Apr 26, 2020 8:44 am
by OrangeQuest
Thanks GB!


I spent the day Level sanded the cleats a little more towards the bow. I also drilled out all the over drilled and filled holes for all the hatches. I invested in a set of self centering drill bits and they are paying off big time. I only have to hold the hatch frame in place for the first hole, secure with a screw and then do the rest with the hatch frame in place. All 48 holes in dead center. Going to use #8 X 3/4" SS square drive screws and the bit for the self centering goes down just a little more than that. But drilling all the holes made me think even more about making my own hatches. I have a whole sheet of 6mm needing a purpose! I think I am talking myself into doing it more and more. 8O :doh:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Apr 26, 2020 12:26 pm
by Jeff
Good stuff OQ!!! Have businesses started to reopen in Houston yet?? Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Apr 26, 2020 3:54 pm
by OrangeQuest
Jeff wrote: Sun Apr 26, 2020 12:26 pm Good stuff OQ!!! Have businesses started to reopen in Houston yet?? Jeff
Not so much that I can see. But I only travel to the stores closest to me for groceries and the small local restaurants and our warehouse. We have a county Judge that is only 26-28 years old and first time into politics and isn't making very good calls holding back a lot of businesses. She spent 60 million dollars for a tent hospital that was never used and now paying 17 million to take it down. Starting Monday anyone in public must cover their face...with anything. City mayor has allowed a few stores to open but not allowing any customers in them. You call them and they bring it out to your car, if you know they have it. I don't really know how that helps anyone. They just opened our city parks back up and iffy on the county parks.
I have a Home Depot, Academy and a Walmart within walking distance of my apartment. They have changed their hours but I go to them regularly.

For our little company we would need the city to ok us, then the company that controls our contract in the parks. The city allows non-profits to manage the parks we operate in so it's not easy just to open operations back up. And no way am I going to shuttle people in our little bus to do tours. I told the president of our company to make the call but had to remind him how we operate within the city and non profit guide lines. In other words, I will make the call when all the others give us the green light. I have tried to keep in touch with my employees but a lot of them I just hired when this thing hit, so I have no clue how many will be coming back.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Apr 26, 2020 5:12 pm
by Jeff
OQ, really sorry to hear all of the bad news!!!! Just hang I there and hopefully we can get back to the “new” normal soon!!! Stay safe & healthy, Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Apr 26, 2020 8:38 pm
by OrangeQuest
Jeff wrote: Sun Apr 26, 2020 5:12 pm OQ, really sorry to hear all of the bad news!!!! Just hang I there and hopefully we can get back to the “new” normal soon!!! Stay safe & healthy, Jeff
Thanks Jeff! You guys too!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Apr 27, 2020 9:00 am
by OrangeQuest
This mornings project: Prep main battery wires to motor terminal block. Marine grade 4 gauge wire is tinned and very fine strands so need to keep them together while silver soldered them. Brass tube cut to length, flux then the solder.
6388
800 grit sand paper to polish after the end is ground down to the solder.
6389

Heat shrink afterwards for a more finished look
6390
And the other wire too.
6391
The terminal block I will use has a large set screw that tightens down on these and should crush into them tightly and keep the wires from spreading out. The motor side will be done the same way.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Apr 27, 2020 2:04 pm
by Fuzz
Nice looking cable ends!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Apr 28, 2020 11:15 am
by OrangeQuest
Thanks Fuzz, they were already in the boat so had to pull them up, clamp them and shield the boat from the torch.


Spent the morning working on a few detail stuff that gets glued into place. Block for the big terminal block is ready, one of two forward locker floors is ready.
6393
As you can see I don't spend much time fairing the lockers, just knock down anything that snags a cloth wiped across it and cover with bilge paint.

I also was looking how hard it would be to make all those hatches in the back. One side of me keeps saying "you can do it", while the other side is saying "looks like a hold my beer moment". Hmmm?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Apr 28, 2020 12:58 pm
by cape man
You can do it, while holding a beer! 8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Apr 28, 2020 5:54 pm
by OrangeQuest
cape man wrote: Tue Apr 28, 2020 12:58 pm You can do it, while holding a beer! 8)
I was happy that I was not taking a sip of said beer when I read that!
:lol: :lol: :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Apr 29, 2020 2:45 pm
by OrangeQuest
I am closer to pulling the trigger on making my own hatches, so close I just got back from getting a cordless trim router to do it!

Here are my thoughts and please point out where I will screw this up.

I added .75" X.75" cleats around all my opening and butt jointed the corners, rough cut the opening because the plastic frames would cover the rough openings up.

(1) Make a template to use a flush trim bit with guide bearing at the top of the bit to follow the template to make all the openings smooth and clean looking and to give me the surface I need for the next step.

(2) slot cutter bit with guide bearing at the bottom to cut recess for the hatch to lay flush and a thin foam gasket to prevent rattles. Hatch will be made of 6mm ply so just cut a recess of 7 to 8mm.

(3) Make template for cutting hatches using flush trim bit again with the bearing at the bottom, making sure the radius of the corners match the radius of the slot cutter bit. This should make sure the hatches all have equal clearance in the opening.

(4) template for smaller, inner hatch that glues to the hatch to give it that solid feel. But use a bevel bit so the edges are beveled for laying lite glass over.

(5) make template to recess hinges, all 10 or 11 of them.

(6) Drill holes for slam latches and over drill for all 20 to 22 screws.

Building these hatches will give me a reason to clear and clean my workbench off to have a work area again. On paper it looks easier and doable, right?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Apr 30, 2020 11:48 am
by OrangeQuest
Well, the trim router had a small enough base to clean up the edges of the hatch opening, then the lips. I am now ready to make the hatches. Not bad for a few hours of work!
Running a flush trim bit with guide bearing at the top to true up the edges and take off any squeeze out from when I glued the cleats on.
6403
Then used a slot cutter bit to cut the lip for the hatch. First pass was at 4mm depth and second pass at 7mm.
6404
Used a thick aluminum large carpenter square as a guide for the flush trim bit.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Apr 30, 2020 11:52 am
by Jeff
Nice work OQ!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Apr 30, 2020 12:07 pm
by glossieblack
Clean work. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Apr 30, 2020 7:37 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thanks Jeff and Glossie! It was the easy part, most of it was just letting the router do all the work.

The trick is going to be making the hatches. The process keeps going through my head but my head keeps changing the process. :doh:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Apr 30, 2020 9:48 pm
by cape man
Think about adding some stiffener to the bottoms. 6mm is kind of thin if you are standing on them. After you routed out the lips, how much do you have left in the ply? Same issue with carrying your weight if you stand on them.

I'm glad you are doing this. It will look so much nicer than plastic lids. A LOT more work, but what else do you have to do? 8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri May 01, 2020 4:58 am
by OrangeQuest
cape man wrote: Thu Apr 30, 2020 9:48 pm Think about adding some stiffener to the bottoms. 6mm is kind of thin if you are standing on them. After you routed out the lips, how much do you have left in the ply? Same issue with carrying your weight if you stand on them.

I'm glad you are doing this. It will look so much nicer than plastic lids. A LOT more work, but what else do you have to do? 8)
Thanks for the input CapeMan!
The hatches will be a laminate of two layers of the 6mm plywood. The inside layer being slightly smaller to fit inside the lip. I had already bought a bag of #8 X.75" SS screws for the plastic hatches so I will need to get some more at .5". I also priced Gemlux slam latches...They have some 2" on clearance!! Even on sale they will throw off the budget (like there is one, glad I'm not married). One thing nice CapeMan, you mentioned the direction the locker hatches are opening. I can hinge all the hatches to open the same direction now, where the lids rest against the frame, That will also look cleaner.

One thing I will say, I am very happy I bought the cordless trim router. It's small size gave me the access I needed to cut nearest the frame. I have the older cordless that Ryobi makes and it doesn't have a base, so not as useful. The slot cutter bit was kind of big for a cordless of only 18V but I was shocked how well it did. Wish I would have bought it back when I started the build.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri May 01, 2020 5:47 am
by glossieblack
OrangeQuest wrote: Thu Apr 30, 2020 7:37 pm The trick is going to be making the hatches. The process keeps going through my head but my head keeps changing the process. :doh:
Perhaps steady the head? :wink:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat May 02, 2020 10:14 am
by OrangeQuest
The making of the hatches turned out not to be that bad. Made a few templates, sanded them for a nice clean fit and the used the flush trim bit the make the hatches. They have zero clearance so no moving around right now. Game plan is to mount the hinges. That way I know that they will still be centered once I final trim the hatches. I have a smaller guide bearing that I will put on my flush trim bit so it will take off an additional 1/16". If that is not enough then I have another even smaller guide bearing that will remove an additional 1/16" for a total of 1/8" clearance. Just can not damage my templates. These were easier than I thought they would be. I could have saved a few bucks on plastic hatches.
6417

What a cleaner look!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue May 05, 2020 1:27 pm
by OrangeQuest
So everyday I have been knocking out getting the new hatches ready for epoxy. I decided that trying to inlay and flush fit the hinges is just not in my wheelhouse at this time. So, just clearance the barrel of the hinges enough to drill the screw holes to mount them. I am ready to over bore and add WFE mix filler. I cut out the stiffener panel for all the hatches today and toyed a little on cutting out the hatch gaskets. Very big pain even at 2mm thick the foam needs a very sharp blade or it will hang and tear the foam. I also will be re-using the cooler box I made for the cooler locker and just have to make it removable. I may coat the outside of the cooler with plastic sheets, form a box for accessing the electrical box and fill the locker with foam.

Rumor has it, we may open back up mid May but no final word yet. I may get very busy soon!!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue May 05, 2020 1:48 pm
by cape man
What a cleaner look!
AMEN brother! Good job!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue May 05, 2020 2:27 pm
by willg
OQ, there's a chance I may still have the jig I made to route out a recess to allow flush fitting my hatch hinges. If you haven't bought hinges yet and want to use the same gemlux ones I used I'd be happy to give the jig to you. This is what I wound up with:

Image

Image

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue May 05, 2020 3:10 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thanks cape man!

And thank you willg, I did get my hinges, they are the same as yours but not the friction hinges. (Nice hatches by the way, I was going to do the same trim colors). There is not enough room even with a trim router to get 6 of them cut out, to close to the frame. I will have to use my high speed rotary tool and free hand it or scribe and chisel them out. The deck already have a layer of glass on it so not ready to go to great lengths just yet.

Reason I got 20 (70% off) is the stern will take half of them, redoing the foredeck hatches with matching hinges (4 more). Then the console will need a few. I picked 1.5" slam latches on clearance for the foredeck, but only bought what I needed at the time. Gemlux doesn't make them anymore. So I will need to pay full price on 2" ones or hold off on some going on clearance again.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed May 06, 2020 9:37 pm
by OrangeQuest
Well, I couldn't resist, I went ahead and tried it. First, looks like someone tried to use my chisel set for chipping metal. They are not the best to start with but I managed to dig enough wood out to make a hole big enough to get the six hinges laid in. Nothing a little WFE can't clean up. :) Didn't help the limited access.
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The hatches were done with the router on the bench and a jig. I also found a source for 1.5" 316SS slam latches...THEY ARE NOT ON SALE! 8O

Just got word today we may open up at the end of May and our SBA loan got approved.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu May 07, 2020 4:17 am
by glossieblack
Nice progress, and hopeful news on the business front. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu May 07, 2020 7:17 am
by Jeff
Good stuff OQ!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu May 07, 2020 9:59 am
by OrangeQuest
Thanks Jeff and GB!

I couldn't wait the text all my employees this morning about a strong maybe of re-opening. 4 so far have not claimed unemployment, they will be the first to come in.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri May 08, 2020 5:31 pm
by OrangeQuest
At long last! I found some!!! Sink strainers that I use in my lockers. I have been looking for more than a month for the last one I needed. I looked at a lot of different ones and wanted something that once plugged could easily be pulled out and cleaned. Notice the gray color, matches the bilge paint all the lockers are being painted. Since it was so hard to find these guys I picked up 5 spares. At a buck each I think they are worth it!

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:lol: :lol: :lol:

Don't judge, sometimes I go simple!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun May 10, 2020 3:53 pm
by OrangeQuest
So I have been trying to re-use the removable cooler liner I had made. First brain fart I had was to wrap the liner with packaging tape, clamp it in then spray expanding foam around the out side of it to fill in the exposed gaps. Everyone but me remembers that expanding foam STICKS to EVERYTHING!! Yes, the liner got stuck in the opening. Had to use plyers to pry it back out. The old plastic hatch frame that I glued it to came right off. Lucky for me I was able to sand all the foam off the liner and didn't hurt it one bit. So, I picked up some strips of poplar at HD and made a frame for the liner and that will fill the gap and slide right into the locker. A gasket on the lid will keep the cold in, or the hot out. The frames were coated with neat epoxy before I left the warehouse today so I will glue them up and onto the liner at the same time.

I also laid glass on the false bottoms on both forward lockers and they will be ready by Tuesday to glue in. I needed to neat coat the cleats for them today so there are a few pieces curing.

The slam latches I ordered should also be coming in Monday also. Once those are cut then I can finish up the hatches.

Employees will be coming back soon so trying to get as much done as possible!! Weather gets nice and I spend all day answering the phone!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon May 11, 2020 1:30 pm
by OrangeQuest
The frame pieces ready for glue up.
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Glued, clamped and waiting for things to get hard.
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Also sanded the over hanging glass off the floor pieces and glued the cleats in. Tomorrow will test fit the cooler and glue in the floors. The slam latches are coming in today so will start back on all the hatches.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon May 11, 2020 6:18 pm
by glossieblack
Nice progress while it's still possible. Enjoy the business revival. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue May 12, 2020 7:00 pm
by OrangeQuest
glossieblack wrote: Mon May 11, 2020 6:18 pm Nice progress while it's still possible. Enjoy the business revival. :D
Thank you!

I went in real early to get a few things done, then dropped my car off for service by 7. The liner came out great! The floors of the lockers are glued in and curing and laminated the hatches together with the stiffener pieces. Will measure and drill holes for the slam latches in the morning and start the neat epoxy coating on them. Can also mount the foredeck now!

Looks like I get to warm up the long board and the sanding arms soon. Also start construction of the console.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue May 12, 2020 8:20 pm
by Bogieman
Nice OQ! Good to see you are cruising along now

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed May 13, 2020 5:48 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thanks Bogie!


Here at the hatches curing with my folding anchors in cups for weighing down the backers. It also rained during the night and the old warehouse roof leaks, on the hatches!! The bare marine plywood passed the water soak test!! 8O
Few days of drying before I over drill and re-drill the final holes for the hinges then drill the holes for slam latches, then a few coats of neat epoxy to call the hatches done and ready for paint!!
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Once the backers were done I could clearance the beer cooler to fit tight and the hatch close flush with double gaskets to seal out warm air and keep cold air in.
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Same time the hatches were curing the floors of the forward lockers also curing. This is the anchor locker, note only a single hole for the strainer. Someone forgot that the anchor shank needs ALL the depth to hang in place. So....Hello hole saw!
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Test fix of the ground tackle. Follow the shank down, yeah, that is a NEW hole for the shank to go into. It was kind of a quick fix but it gives me a way to keep the shank from banging around. a few pieces cut at an angle and they will deflect the rode as it is hauled in. Yes, I had to play deckhand and climb into the boat to haul anchor a few times to see if this would really work. Even tested with deck clamped on.
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Better picture of the shank hole! I love it when a mistake turns into a plan!
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An issue popped up, while playing deckhand, the forward hatches open the wrong way, the rode hits the hatch when hauling. So, will be cutting out for the hinges to be moved to the center, down side is that I loose the "wings" when the boat really needs to fly! 8O

:lol: :lol: :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed May 13, 2020 7:18 pm
by glossieblack
Like cape man, you're flying. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed May 13, 2020 9:03 pm
by OrangeQuest
glossieblack wrote: Wed May 13, 2020 7:18 pm Like cape man, you're flying. :D
:lol: :lol: :lol:

I am not to the point of "I love sanding, I love sanding, I love sanding!" I can still say I hate sanding. But getting closer to loving to sand.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu May 14, 2020 7:37 am
by Jeff
Nice OQ!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri May 15, 2020 10:54 am
by OrangeQuest
Thank you Jeff!


I like the way the aft hatches all turned out even though I have a few opps to correct. It was fairly easy and didn't take up to much more time. I started getting ready to mount the foredeck and just have never been very happy with the way the hatches were. With a little more experience and the smaller base of the trim router I corrected all the mistakes on the hatch openings and making new hatches.

Started by using a flush trim bit with the guide bearing on the shank and took away the lip. With a very clean edge I then used a slot cutter bit to cut a new lip for a hatch frame. The new openings where traced on a piece of scrap plywood and cut out. Then used the template to trace the hatch with the added lip. Cut close to the line left it over size for the opening. Using a belt sander clamped on it's side on the workbench, sanded even closer to the exact size of the hatch frame. Hand sand down to a snug fit in the opening. So now I have a template for the hatch and a backer. They will be glued together with a slight camber to match the foredeck. Also using the simple hinges I am using for ALL the hatches. All the hatch hardware will be matching!!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri May 15, 2020 12:34 pm
by cape man
I am not to the point of "I love sanding, I love sanding, I love sanding!" I can still say I hate sanding. But getting closer to loving to sand.
Its the putting stuff on only to sand it off that is frustrating!!!

Looking good!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri May 15, 2020 7:30 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thank cape man!

It's all you guys that are really into doing the job right, all the way down to the smallest of details that inspires me to do a better job. I am no where near the level a lot of guys on here are but I like working at it!

I have said repeatedly that I just don't like sanding but today, hand sanding the template edges down to a final fit really gave me joy and satisfaction of getting them down into the openings. The hours just went by!

Saturday the employees will be coming in to clean up the warehouse, office and gear. Everything was already a mess from readying for the regatta and then the outbreak hit. So THEY have their work cut out for them.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun May 17, 2020 11:52 am
by OrangeQuest
Saturday with the excitement of see some of the employees for the first time since March I didn't get any boat work done. Interviewed one employee for the position of my assistant also, she seems she could be a good fit. The employees cleaned the main part of the warehouse and the customers' waiting area. Sunday I was looking for the brooms and dust pans. :)

I rough cut out all the Forward hatches and backing pieces. Used the flush trim bit and templates to get them to the correct size and fit. Mixed up some very runny epoxy, wood flour glue to glue the backers to the hatches. Placed a 6mm piece of scrap plywood under the inside edge of the hatch, with the hatch upside down and the backer on top, used a clamp in the center rear of the hatch to add the slight camber. Weigh down the front of the hatch to get the desired squeeze out. Curing overnight. Will take pictures before removing the clamps.

One thing I like about making templates and then rough cutting the final piece to flush trim, just have to cut outside the lines of the traced template. Makes it easy for someone like me that can't cut straight or do very well following anything, much less a line. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon May 18, 2020 12:45 pm
by OrangeQuest
Everything looked like it went as planned on adding the very slight camber to the new hatches. But this one did not take the camber at the tip.
It pops the outer back edge up when I mount the hinge but the latch holds it down, spring loaded? I will sleep on it and see how much it bugs me as I keep going.
6667

With the recesses cut for hinges, opening for latch and hole are ready for over bore and fill. Will do the hatches first (all 7) then mount the hinges to drill the correct size holes and the over bore the decks. Then trim the outer edge of the hatches to give 1/16" clearance around the edge.
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Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon May 18, 2020 1:00 pm
by OrangeQuest
Note the positioning of the Samson post, fairleads and the bow roller.

(1)
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(2)
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(3)
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I am leaning towards the last version (3). Could then mount a center nav light assembly that is low profile.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon May 18, 2020 1:05 pm
by Fuzz
Some very nice there. If you mount the samson post farther back you think of turning it 90 degrees.You must be getting close to primer?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon May 18, 2020 1:09 pm
by Jaysen
The hatches kind of force the post to position 3.

I like 1 best but the hatches will be a problem.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon May 18, 2020 6:42 pm
by OrangeQuest
Fuzz wrote: Mon May 18, 2020 1:05 pm Some very nice there. If you mount the samson post farther back you think of turning it 90 degrees.You must be getting close to primer?
Closer to doing a lot of sanding, in Houston's summer! I will be wet sanding as much as possible.
Jaysen wrote: Mon May 18, 2020 1:09 pm The hatches kind of force the post to position 3.

I like 1 best but the hatches will be a problem.
I like the post in (1) also, maybe even back a little more. But, the hatches do stay open but just barely. Using Fuzz's suggestion will give me more opening. The things you guys pointed out is why I was checking the hardware positions, but didn't think to turn 90°! :lol: :lol: The post is also useful as a grab handle when laying on the deck to rescue off the bow, turning it 90° also makes for a firmer grip.

Thanks guys!!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri May 29, 2020 7:59 pm
by OrangeQuest
Well, I was trying to get more work done on the build before going back to "normal" work. Got a new assistant that is smart as they come. She only needs to learn everything we do, prices and how I think and she will be ready. :roll: She has all the computer stuff down already and is not afraid to talk to customers. She just needs to know what to say and is picking it up quickly!! Very happy! She seems to have a problem with dust...I am in trouble!

One venue opening up next Saturday. Very excited and nervous at the same time. After I talked to a woman on the phone for 15 minutes about cleaning the paddles and boats after each person uses them. It is going to be a hard next week! I told her that she is not going to be licking her butt after sitting in the boats!! The virus does not go through your clothes!! If you put the paddle in the water, you will get your hands wet!! Do NOT suck on your fingers afterwards!!! People have stopped thinking! :? :?

Anyway, sorry for the rant. I ordered almost all the electronics, more than it needs, but two day air has turned into a week. Did not order a Suzuki tach with the built in warning lights, I am reconsidering the engine options. Working on cleaning the work area but my mind keeps going to sanding the aft decks, transom and not liking the anchor locker. Thinking of cutting the floor out, never was going to be there anyway, and just go with a simple strainer over the drain. And I have started sanding! WHeeeeee!

One thing I forgot to order...volt meter! I went and grabbed my diagram of my mock up instrument panel and it is in the drawing. I can see that I will be moving all the switches to a new location.

6751

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jun 01, 2020 11:44 am
by OrangeQuest
Ever wonder how well epoxy holds up? This is a rental canoe and you can tell by the black trim the boat is not handled gentle by the public. (If these boats could talk, I am sure they would have great stories) But I have patched this thing with multi-layers of cloth. There are holes in both ends from customers dragging them on concrete. If it is dropped hard enough the epoxy pop loose from the plastic hull, last time I roughed the plastic up pretty good. I only sand enough to get the paint on. Last trip out the paint is gone but the patch has no scratches!! I may get a few more years out of this work horse!!
6760

I removed the anchor locker floor and added a smaller one that allows the anchor to be stowed one handed!!
6761

The little "pad" that is left will be for a steel pad eye to attach the end of the anchor line to so it doesn't get lost at sea as easy.

Not that anyone had tried to set an anchor and forgot to tie off first!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jun 21, 2020 6:16 am
by OrangeQuest
Looks like I am down to not spending to much more money!! I have the steering control cable coming and the other control cables already came in with the service manual for the DF25/30hp motor. Thumbed through the book and has a lot of pictures and diagrams but would need time to read to understand it better. Looks to be standard manual on how to-measure, disassemble/assemble the engine, drivetrain and the other sections on engine control, fuel control, starting and charging systems. Did not see any spec diagrams but didn't get a lot of time to study it. The wiring diagrams are a bit small to follow a single wire from point A to point B but I think it is manageable. Wish it was in a PDF format so could zoom and print as needed.

Will need one more sheet of 9mm plywood to complete the console, side ribs and gunwales pieces. I stirred the bilge paint up a few days ago and peeked inside the can but did not have time to apply any of it. I am just trying to think of what the final bits and pieces to complete my build will be. Since there was NEVER plans for a stereo or speakers, I need wiring for that and to route them. Also need to figure out what is needed to tie the VHF, GPS/Chartplotter and stereo all together. A lot smaller console is going to make things a little tight but doable. Feel like I am on a episode of "Tiny Boat Building" at times. Which the seat mounts maybe custom built also. I have the locking swivel seat mounts, one still in the wind and one came in a few weeks ago but can not find anything that is removable to make room to utilize the roomy cockpit. May make them just boxes with speakers on both sides and water tight phone storage compartments then.

I was just going to put a few thoughts down but the more I think about it the more I still need to do to get the boat on the water.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jun 21, 2020 6:36 am
by glossieblack
OrangeQuest wrote: Sun Jun 21, 2020 6:16 am I was just going to put a few thoughts down but the more I think about it the more I still need to do to get the boat on the water.
An alternative game plan: why not focus on only doing what's necessary to get her in the water and moving? Enjoy her awhile, evaluate what is still important but not yet done, then take your time doing it?

Just a thought. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jun 22, 2020 6:42 am
by OrangeQuest
glossieblack wrote: Sun Jun 21, 2020 6:36 am An alternative game plan: why not focus on only doing what's necessary to get her in the water and moving? Enjoy her awhile, evaluate what is still important but not yet done, then take your time doing it?
That is a great game plan! :D And it would work for normal people, but no one has ever accused me of being normal. :)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jun 22, 2020 6:48 am
by OrangeQuest
There has been consideration of mounting the 5hp motor on her and doing a test splash to see how she sits on the water with 5 gallon buckets of water in the stern to mock the weight of the 25hp. That way I can test if my calculations are correct on where the console should be and see if the 5hp would get her on plane. (She has to be bow heavy with no water in her wells and me at the helm).

Before gluing the flooring down I want to get the lay out of everything done first. One thing I have been trying to maintain is the accessibility of everything incase of replacement, I lose that if I rush on the final steps.

I have little paper cut outs of the electronics and have taped them in different places on my mock up console. Then I "get behind the wheel" and play like I am steering the boat to make sure I have good access to them all. And there have been other mock up testing of placement of things. I am wearing patterns in the flooring walking back and forth to make sure access around things is still easy enough. And even played "toss" the anchor to make sure it is easily do able pulling the line back in.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jun 22, 2020 10:13 am
by narfi
Rules are you have to make 'vroom vroom' noises while doing that!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jun 22, 2020 11:36 am
by OrangeQuest
:lol: :lol: :lol:
narfi wrote: Mon Jun 22, 2020 10:13 am Rules are you have to make 'vroom vroom' noises while doing that!

There is a reason there are no videos of it happening.
Old picture from the winter!
4069

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jun 25, 2020 6:39 pm
by Bogieman
The boat is looking great and I like the pic! I especially like how you strategically figured out just how high off the shop floor to build your boat in order to not hit your noggin on the overhead :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jun 25, 2020 6:58 pm
by OrangeQuest
Bogieman wrote: Thu Jun 25, 2020 6:39 pm The boat is looking great and I like the pic! I especially like how you strategically figured out just how high off the shop floor to build your boat in order to not hit your noggin on the overhead :D
Thanks Bogie! The boat is on the trailer and there were a number of times my noggin may have bumped the rack over head! There is also a few "splatters of epoxy putty that stuck on the boats, rack and anything near by. :doh:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 26, 2020 10:16 am
by OrangeQuest
We have had rain for more than a week and now that the rain has stopped the flow rates are to high to operate so on to boat building stuff. As I prep for getting the console built and installed I have been playing with my hinges. 6 of the inlays for the hinges had to be hand craved and I may have got them misshaped and no longer look good enough to leave along. Then the others would not line up with the hatches and the frames, so I played with them some more, to much more. DANG OCD!!

I decided the only way to fill in the gaps, chip out and gouges from my craving skills is to make a mold of the hinges so I can align the hatches with the frames. So I needed to make a negative mold of the hinge and then use that to make 10 copies of the hinge. I wanted to make the copies out of wax that come easily be removed once the epoxy cures. But never got a good negative copy.

Mold making 101: Clay did not work, it shrinks as it dries and the hinge is to hard to get back out then. Once you get the hinge out the clay mold is destroyed. Plaster Paris, again the hinges get stuck in it and no easy way to pop them out without the edges crumbling. :cry:

My latest attempt is with silicone mold making kit from art supply. 8) I read the directions, watch a few videos and thought I would rig up a few hinges and see what I could do. This is the first try at my apt with very little tools and supplies.

6891

The rubber would have been poured on these and sets for about half an hour and where the wood was missing under the hinge I would some how cut the rubber away to get the hinge out and have a negative.

The rubber comes in two parts at a ratio of 1 to 1 by volume or 1 to 1.30 by weight. I opened part A. It is solid rubber! Way to old to use. Will be going back to the Art supply for another kit. Since I was delayed and possible saved from screwing up I used clay to stick the hinges to the bottom of the pan.
6892

Then I craved the clay from around the hinges so the negative would be deeper than needed. I also put bamboo skewers on the screw holes so the hinge molds can be screwed into the frames and hatches for an exact fit.
6893

Once the molds are made I will drill out the mounting holes for the screws to hold them down. Once in place I will force epoxy putty around them. Once cured, sand to flush!! :) Again, looks great on paper!!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 26, 2020 10:50 am
by narfi
I have been thinking I will freehand with my router inside lines traced around the hinges laid in place.... not perfect but I think good enough for my use. Will I regret it?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 26, 2020 11:43 am
by CpnCrunch
I was leafing through Wouter's PH18 build yesterday and he used a mix of silicon and corn starch to make a negative mold... I think it might work for your application... it would be supple enough to get the hinges out without breaking...

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 26, 2020 2:07 pm
by OrangeQuest
Narfi I had done most of mine with a router and a guide. Worked great but the rounded ends did not match with my router bit so a small gap. Then I decided to do it again with a little more recess so I could seal it with 4oz cloth. But then my frames and hatches did not fit exactly with my hinges in place, the extra clearance was off causing some of the hinges to be cocked a little.

Then the ones I craved, I pull the first ply off one of them due to the angle I had to chip away at the wood. The handles of my chisels would hit the frame and I could not control them as easy.

I will know later today how this will turn out.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jun 29, 2020 8:16 pm
by BB Sig
How did it turn out? :doh:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jun 29, 2020 10:18 pm
by OrangeQuest
The molds worked very well but I am a little nervous on using them. The idea add epoxy putty, lay down 4 oz glass to fill in the gaps and to seal everything around the hinges. Wet out the glass and then press the hinge molds in. A little sanding and fairing and all is done. Tape off the hinge areas and glass the decks. That is what I envision. My OCD is fighting with me on just doing it or not. My OCD is saying it needs more precision adjustments to the mold. All of the rest of me is saying to just do it.

We have to high of flow rates to rent boats so I have the time. But this week I should know if I get a bonus to buy my motor or not, so that doesn't help either.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jun 30, 2020 7:06 am
by BB Sig
Just do it! I suffer from over thinking things before doing it except for my speech from my mouth! 8O I gotta work on both things! :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jun 30, 2020 7:19 am
by OrangeQuest
i too am one of those that what to be just as surprised as everyone else and just start talking to see what comes out! 8O

If it takes another year to get the motor I may just mount the 5hp on it to use the dang thing, so the goal is to get it ready no matter what. But to work on it I need to be more at peace. A lot of political crap here in Houston right now that could close our doors without cause.

Just got permission to run, from the managers of the park our only venue is allowed to operate, as long as we can do so under CDC guidelines. Which we can but flow rates are still to high and the weather is unstable, so a lot is going against the company right now.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jun 30, 2020 8:56 am
by BB Sig
Knee jerk politicians are to blame. I think there needs to be a law stating that "for each new law/rule, you must remove two from the books that are not constitutional" would benefit us in the long run! :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jul 03, 2020 2:45 pm
by OrangeQuest
Well, I didn't like the way the first mold turned out so I started over with a new mold. This time I used tongue depressor sticks to keep the hinge molds level with the hatch frames. I like them better. I make 6 at a time and I need 14 so I made a few extra. Here they are still curing.
6987

About 20minutes I pop them out, separate them on the band saw and they are ready for use. The stick side doesn't have to look nice and all the over hang keeps the mold at the correct depth.
Test fitted to all the recesses and then glue up. Image of foredeck hatches.
6988
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Glossie, see the squeeze out? :lol: :lol: :lol: zero magnification! :lol: :lol:

There was no time for neatness here, even with slow hardener (100+° in the warehouse) about half way doing all 14 hinge molds I could feel the pot starting to warm up.

They will set over night and if all goes as "planned" the molds pop right out, a little cutting the hatch loose at the hinge pivot and with a little flush sanding and I can lay the glass.

NOTE TO SELF: things never go as planned! 8O

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jul 03, 2020 3:55 pm
by cape man
Interesting... 8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jul 04, 2020 8:23 am
by OrangeQuest
It did not go as the plans were intended. lot of empty places under the molds that just didn't get enough putty in them, even though there was a lot of squeeze out. I think air was trapped under some of them. Even the ones that turned out perfect were to small, the hinge would not fit in the recess. Inlays are not in MY wheel house and that was the last attempt on this build. I am going to make the recesses flat and just bolt the hinges on top of them. Even with the hinges flush the barrel would still be sticking up a little, so, the hell with it.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jul 04, 2020 4:33 pm
by Dan_Smullen
Would a trimming router and a template guide bushing be of any help?

It requires a template cut oversize based on the bushing offset, but once you have the template/jig right, you can cut as many holes as you need.

Not sure if this what you need or not, but will be conducive to cutting the right size motrices for the hinges.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jul 04, 2020 5:25 pm
by OrangeQuest
Dan__Smullen, I used a jig to cut 8 of the hinge recesses. But I built the jig to do only half the hinge at a time. The frame half and the the hatch half. Because the clearance was so close they didn't line up exactly so I cut them again, then things started going down hill quickly from there. Six of the hinge halves were cut by hand due to the trim router base hitting the frame. The foredeck also has camber to it and cutting recesses in it was very complex. I am done spending time and money on them and they will look fine once I lay the glass on the decks and hatches. If I use 12 oz. glass where the hinges go then I can cut the glass out so the hinges will be recessed slightly by the glass. I can feather the glass down away from the openings so water will roll away from the openings and then channel it towards the sole. Contouring the deck is in my wheelhouse so I will stick with what I know.

I ordered more supplies today to repair/hide what I have done and I am moving on.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jul 04, 2020 7:49 pm
by glossieblack
OrangeQuest wrote: Sat Jul 04, 2020 5:25 pm I ordered more supplies today to repair/hide what I have done and I am moving on.
Good call. 8)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jul 04, 2020 10:01 pm
by Dan_Smullen
10-4. That will work.

I’ve had the notion to over cut the motrices, fill them in, and the re-cut to size for the same reasons you’d overdrill and fill a hole. Could be a good plan C of B starts going off the rails.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jul 05, 2020 6:07 am
by OrangeQuest
Dan_Smullen wrote: Sat Jul 04, 2020 10:01 pm 10-4. That will work.

I’ve had the notion to over cut the motrices, fill them in, and the re-cut to size for the same reasons you’d overdrill and fill a hole. Could be a good plan C of B starts going off the rails.
This is really back to plan "A". This quote is from, I think, April.
OrangeQuest wrote: Tue May 05, 2020 1:27 pm So everyday I have been knocking out getting the new hatches ready for epoxy. I decided that trying to inlay and flush fit the hinges is just not in my wheelhouse at this time. So, just clearance the barrel of the hinges enough to drill the screw holes to mount them. I am ready to over bore and add WFE mix filler. I cut out the stiffener panel for all the hatches today and toyed a little on cutting out the hatch gaskets.
If I stuck with the game plan I would be whining about issues I would be having building the console by now! :)

I don't mind adding to my skill set but there comes a time to just accept that this is not going to happen on this build. I do have a new trim router, a lot more router bits, wood carving tools, new set of chisels and learned how to make molds from silicone rubber and then plastic.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jul 05, 2020 6:50 am
by cape man
Build on! She's screaming for water beneath!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jul 05, 2020 6:57 am
by cape man
Double post...

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jul 05, 2020 10:39 am
by OrangeQuest
cape man wrote: Sun Jul 05, 2020 6:50 am Build on! She's screaming for water beneath!
YES!! I wouldn't mind just pushing her over to the water hose and washing the dust off her! Maybe play with her pumps!

Had an old, cheap wooden canoe paddle show up yesterday. I started sanding all the old varnish off and plan on epoxy, tinted glass and then painting white and will be the paddle for the Ana Marie!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jul 12, 2020 5:21 am
by OrangeQuest
So, I went to my local lumber yard and picked up, what I hope is the last, sheet of 9mm plywood to finish the boat. I needed the length of the whole sheet for the last gunnel and to build the console. In all only need less than half but before I started the console I wanted to make sure I had the wood.

While I was there I asked about some nice wood to maybe have a little bright work accent here or there. Teak was $30.00 per linear foot no matter thickness or width! 8O 8O If I picked up 48" that's $120.00!! He did have a piece of left over redwood ($50.00 for 48"x4"x3/4") that may find a home on the boat but it is not the right color I was looking for. Man, talk about sticker shock. I may find a budget for a foot of black walnut that could become a catch all box or something that I can cut out on the bandsaw and stain.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jul 15, 2020 7:25 pm
by OrangeQuest
This week I started the fairing on my poor inlay job. I mixed runny batch of epoxy and wood flour to fill in the mistakes.
Used a piping bag to squeeze filler in all the recesses. The hatches I laid flat and over filled them with tape holding the mix in till hard. The frame areas I taped off but wanted to cover them to force the mix into all areas and maybe less sanding afterwards. So I put packing tape over scrap wood and got everything ready. Squirted the mix in all the areas needs before the piping bag would get hot.

wasn't a lot of epoxy filler but it was 14 spots that needed to be topped off and then some. Did the hatches first and while the mix was settling I went to the boat and more squirting. I did all the angled recesses first and and was capping, clamping them as I went. Then went back and final topped off the hatches. Cleaned up and went home. Foredeck all clamped up and the aft lockers:
7059
7060
Came in this morning and the hatches looked great!! Then I went to the boat and started pulling off the scrap wood. Pull off clamp, pry edge of scrap wood with putty knife and the scrap pops off. Note: I only put tape on one side of the scrap wood so how hard can that be to place the slick side down?
Right:
7061
Not sure I should be able to pull the tape off so easy but I do know that the scrap piece of wood did not pop off as easy as the rest!! :? :doh:
Lucky it was scrap wood and the plies just come right apart. I used a 1" chisel and just pushed down to the last ply and block planed the rest off.

I did find a fast way to knock the overflow bumps down quickly without sanding into the softer wood around them. I had a piece of 3/8" thick ply wood that had a 3" circle cut in it. I clamped the scrap onto the hatch with the circle around the bump. Used my trim router with a straight cut bit. Set the depth just shy of the thickness of the scrap. Just moved the router around inside the circle till the bump was all but gone. Light sanding till flush.

I am putting that in my skill set!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jul 15, 2020 7:32 pm
by narfi
hehe, seems like something I would do :)

neat trick with removing lumps too..... now that I'm almost done :/

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jul 16, 2020 3:25 pm
by OrangeQuest
narfi wrote: Wed Jul 15, 2020 7:32 pm hehe, seems like something I would do :)

neat trick with removing lumps too..... now that I'm almost done :/
I first used the method for stray drips on the finished surface and I don't want to sand it anymore. To set the depth I place the router on a sheet of paper and micro adjust to where it just touches the paper. Think Kung Fu, walk across the rice paper without tearing it.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jul 16, 2020 3:34 pm
by OrangeQuest
Each hatch took an hour to just recess enough for the hinge barrels, that is how slow and careful I was being. I lost count on attempts at this, but I got 3 hatches out of 7 done! Warehouse started getting to hot to work more than 15 minutes at a time before I was dripping sweat all over the bare wood. Work phone started ringing so couldn't get much more done anyway. I was wanting to get lunch at a family owned place anyway, retired vet that just started his own business, damn straight I will support him.

7066
7065

You can see where there was over shot on the recessing.

What do you guys use for hatch opening stops? I can see someone holding onto an open hatch and expecting it to hold their weight leaning on it. After knocking them over board I would still need to replace the bent hinges.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jul 17, 2020 11:22 am
by Jeff
Nice work OQ!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jul 17, 2020 6:10 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thanks Jeff, me and these hinges are going around and round!


I got them all done today! Next up, seat pedestals.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jul 17, 2020 9:45 pm
by BB Sig
Congrats! The little details are frustrating sometimes. :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jul 18, 2020 4:36 am
by OrangeQuest
I also put in an order to the bolt depot.

The thickness of the hatches is 12mm (two 6mm plywood sheets laminated) The #8 sheet metal screws in 5/8" length just poke through and 1/2" I don't feel would be strong enough. So I am going to drill thru and use tee nuts with #8-32 machine screws. I had looked up all the 316 stainless screws I need, then got to the tee nut, last thing on my order, and they only come in 8-18 stainless. No Square drive so one side of the hinge would have Philips and the other square.

Ordered #8-32 X 5/8" beveled Philips drive machine screws 316 SS.- box of 100
Reordered #8 square drive 1/2" beveled sheet metal screws for Philips drive 316 SS- box of 100
Reordered #8 square drive 5/8" beveled sheet metal screws for Philips drive 316 SS- box of 100
No 316 SS #8-32 tee nuts. 8O
Ordered 50 #8-32 8-18 SS tee nuts. Box of 50 @ $0.53 each
Reordered #8-32 X 5/8" beveled Philips drive machine screws 8-18 SS

This is all from those hinges!!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jul 18, 2020 9:36 am
by pee wee
I like this type of thing to hold open a hatch, simple and functional:


Image

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jul 24, 2020 10:26 am
by OrangeQuest
So, I did a little neat epoxy coating in the anchor locker and then a little light sanding and it will get painted with just bilge paint.

Fun fact: used med speed hardener and applied between 7 and 7:30 this morning. Air temp in the warehouse is low 80's. At 9:15 it is not sticky to the touch and finger nail impression hard. Another hour I could sand and paint today! But that will wait till tomorrow.

I am repairing the bow and stern on one of our rental canoes with patches of cloth and the extra epoxy I mixed up I used to coat all the inside frames of the hatches that I routed out. That was done at 8:00 and still a little tacky.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jul 25, 2020 10:38 am
by OrangeQuest
Sealing all the inside of the frames seems to have worked without causing the hatches to stick I am now final clearance the outer edges and round them over. This will be the final prep (I hope) before adding glass to the hatches.

Still need to make the strikers inside the hatch frames for all but the cold locker, it has a square hole cut in the liner for the latch catch to hold to. I may need to figure a way to make a stainless striker for it. (gave me a thought to look on the web for one).

Have rain bands hitting Houston today, they are moving from the East to the West, warehouse is west of where I live. I drive along the bayou to get home so left the warehouse early today to keep from hitting any flooded streets. It is easier for me to get stuck at home than the warehouse. I can work from home but it's hard to live from the warehouse even though there is more to do there.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Aug 12, 2020 10:44 am
by OrangeQuest
Still slowly working on the decks and hatches. I over drilled the holes for the hinges on the hatches and just filled them all up. with the left over epoxy/wood flour mixture, I did a little fairing on the aft decks.

Work have been a roller coaster of rain/high flow rates, school starting back and employees that can't decide if they want to work or not. Hard to relax when you don't know if the doors will stay open or not.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Aug 16, 2020 4:26 am
by glossieblack
OQ, Happy big six 0. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Aug 16, 2020 5:18 am
by OrangeQuest
glossieblack wrote: Sun Aug 16, 2020 4:26 am OQ, Happy big six 0. :D
Thanks GB! I feelin it too! All this mask wearing in this extreme heat, drains the life out of ya quickly. :)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Aug 16, 2020 6:15 am
by Aripeka Angler
Happy birthday OQ! :)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Aug 16, 2020 8:55 am
by OrangeQuest
Aripeka Angler wrote: Sun Aug 16, 2020 6:15 am Happy birthday OQ! :)
Thank you Richard!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Aug 16, 2020 12:05 pm
by cape man
You're still a baby! Happy birthday!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Aug 16, 2020 2:14 pm
by Fuzz
Cloof, cloof cloof :lol: :lol: :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Aug 16, 2020 4:48 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thanks guys! Funny thing is, I was born in 1960...Today I turned 60!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Aug 16, 2020 9:37 pm
by Bogieman
Happy birthday OQ!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Aug 16, 2020 11:49 pm
by TomW1
Happy birthday my young man.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Aug 17, 2020 5:03 am
by OrangeQuest
Thank you guys! I had a very crazy day!

Got the crew off to go work the only venue you we have going right now. Got a couple of baskets to do some trans planting of some plants. Just got changed into my comfy shorts when the phone rang. Left front wheel fell off the vehicle while hauling two customers with their boats! Race to where they are at, the wrecker and police were there already. Hooked the trailer to the back on my LITTLE Soul and dropped the customers off. Got to the warehouse to drop the trailer off and the wrecker driver was saying he needed cash! We don't carry cash! So I gave him and family a free tour as a trade.---he got the better deal but we all walk away happy.

Made a deal with a young lady to bring her 3 paddleboards as a make up for the tow bill. They came late. Another young lady called wanting to paddle for her birthday and gets lost. We have to have the boats off the water 30 minutes before sunset (8:00 here) and all of her party is still not there by 6:45 PM. On the phone with her and tell my crew to stay and make sure she gets to paddle, because we share the same birthday I gave here our military discount of 50% off. I got to start relaxing with a cold beer at 8:15 PM. Fell asleep after a bowl of ice cream!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Aug 17, 2020 10:36 am
by Jeff
Happy Birthday (a day late)!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Aug 17, 2020 3:47 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thank you Jeff!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Aug 20, 2020 8:17 am
by OrangeQuest
Last of the hatch hardware, I hope!
7281

The game plan is to fair the top side of the hatches and apply the 4oz glass. Drill the holes back through the glass. Neat coat the bottom side of the hatches and use the nylon bolts to pull the tee nuts into the countersinks while the epoxy is still green, embedding them into the wood and holding them in till the epoxy cures. Would be easier to drill out the nylon than SS bolts. Cover the undersides with 4oz cloth and call it a day.

I sure do know how to make something you guys make look easy and turn it into a complex mess! :lol: :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Aug 21, 2020 11:32 pm
by Bogieman
:lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Aug 22, 2020 9:34 am
by OrangeQuest
Bogieman wrote: Fri Aug 21, 2020 11:32 pm:lol:
:D

Those that have been following should get a chuckle too, cause I have been making thing way more complex than they need to be.

Just this morning I mounted the main power supply terminal block and inserted the battery cable ends I made. The little clear shield that covers the posts will not set flush due to the set screws are sticking up to high. I have drilled a hole in the positive end and got it flush but still need to do the negative. I may post pictures later.

I also SWEAT sanded my hatches in prep for the finishing glass to be laid on them. Those of you that live in the hot, humid climates know why I call it "sweat" sanding. 8O

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Aug 24, 2020 4:22 pm
by BB Sig
How are you looking for the minor storms heading your way? :|

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Aug 25, 2020 7:30 am
by Jeff
OQ, Be safe out there!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Aug 25, 2020 8:04 am
by OrangeQuest
BB Sig wrote: Mon Aug 24, 2020 4:22 pm How are you looking for the minor storms heading your way? :|
My two weather stations here at my apartment do not show any changes yet. They both (at 29.88 inHg, but the more sensitive one just went to 29.89) are showing the barometric pressure is going up. Anyone live along the coast for a decade or so, knows the "feel" of a major storm. Air starts moving, it feel dry and very moist at the same time. I was outside at our warehouse to make sure there was nothing loose in the warehouse parking lot, that the employees from the weekend left out, and the feel is not there.

The one that is predicted to hit my area around 9 (2 hours from now) doesn't look like it has enough in it to even give us rain, much less any wind. The buildings here at my complex, form a outside barrier like a fort and where my weather station is outside doesn't get correct wind direction but shows wind speed, it is gusting from 0 to 1 mph. 8O PANIC!!

I did have the local news on this morning and if you go by what they are saying, we are all going to be flooded and under water by Thursday. Should be interesting to watch the Walmart parking lot across from me fill up today as people start to panic buy. This is senior day at most places, bet that is not going to happen. From helping rescue people during the floods of Harvey, what the news shows and what is really going on is not the same. Different reality.

Even the management of my complex put notices on our doors. The statement was that once the storm gets closer we are on our own, that management and maintance will not be anywhere near here. I have lived here more than 10 years...it doesn't flood and the complex was built in the late 70's. What do they know that we don't about the buildings? :lol: :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Aug 25, 2020 8:08 am
by OrangeQuest
Jeff wrote: Tue Aug 25, 2020 7:30 am OQ, Be safe out there!!! Jeff
Thanks Jeff!

Just like you guys, we been down this road before, our road just isn't as well traveled! :)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Aug 25, 2020 8:12 am
by OrangeQuest
Oh! PANIC!! I have to go panic buy! I am down to only one case of beer! And need bananas!

Today is my normal day to buy food stuff but I am still stocked for the area I live in, just have to get things that don't keep more than a week like fresh fruits and veggies...and BEER!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Aug 25, 2020 8:37 am
by BB Sig
OrangeQuest wrote: Tue Aug 25, 2020 8:12 am Oh! PANIC!! I have to go panic buy! I am down to only one case of beer! And need bananas!

Today is my normal day to buy food stuff but I am still stocked for the area I live in, just have to get things that don't keep more than a week like fresh fruits and veggies...and BEER!
LOL! When Laura was first heading our way, I told the wife to get some beer. She brought home a less than stellar choice. I will have to be specific next time! :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Aug 25, 2020 3:27 pm
by Bogieman
Stay safe OQ. She is heading right for you

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Aug 26, 2020 4:57 am
by OrangeQuest
Bogieman wrote: Tue Aug 25, 2020 3:27 pm Stay safe OQ. She is heading right for you
Thank you Bogie, looks like we are going to be missed by a few inches and just get the "clean" side of it. Hoping that we don't get much rain, need to work!

It has now clouded up and the air has that dry moist heavy feel to it with the wind starting to stir. Barometric reading is starting to drop a little (29.80).
The wind direction pointer is spinning around faster than the speed sensor!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Sep 04, 2020 8:14 pm
by OrangeQuest
Slowly hacking away at my hatches.. talk about OCD issues! I brought them home to wet sand on my patio. You can see a few brush hair and dust in the epoxy but the under sides are ready for the bilge paint. Still going to put a final coat of neat epoxy on the top side and wet sand then again and they will be done.
The tee nuts have been countersunk and then glued in with the neat coat of the underside. You can see the nylon bolts and washers I used to keep the threads clear of epoxy... THEY WORKED!! Finally! Had to crack the bolts loose from the epoxy but they kept the holes clean.
7354

The wet sanding was a fast and easy way to keep all dust down and the sand paper from clogging up. 1/3" of a full sheet of 80 grit, did the top and bottom sides of all 7 hatches. It will be the way I am going to go when fairing and finishing the topsides and hull.
I am getting closer to the "1000 little things left" mark!!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Sep 04, 2020 8:21 pm
by BB Sig
Great idea with the bolts! :D

How's the business fairing after the storms?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Sep 05, 2020 5:32 am
by OrangeQuest
We did not miss a beat, no rain, no wind. But have cut back to being open only weekends. Have a big event booked for both Saturday (today) and Sunday, that does not include our park venue. We are closed Labor Day for employee only paddle.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Sep 06, 2020 2:30 pm
by Bogieman
Very nice OQ!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Nov 23, 2020 12:45 pm
by pee wee
How are things going?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Nov 24, 2020 5:50 am
by OrangeQuest
pee wee wrote: Mon Nov 23, 2020 12:45 pm How are things going?
It has been put on hold waiting for the motor. The Suzuki uses a draglink for steering and I may need to provide clearance in the splash deck so the draglink can move freely. It was an unexpected issue that dampened my will to continue the rest of the boat till I get the motor. That and I do not have anyone answering the company phone, so I do it, 7 days a week from 8 till 6. Getting involved with sanding, cutting or coating something and the phone rings I have to stop everything to answer and at times it is not much time between calls. If I have to use a computer then I have to clean up and go into the office...it became a big pain to try and do both. I also don't go to the venue as much to help out, even with ear buds it is not easy to help get people in boats and talk on the phone at the same time. So, I set up a home office and spend my time near a computer.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Nov 24, 2020 6:03 am
by glossieblack
Thanks for the update OQ. You're a busy guy at the moment, so boat building takes a hit. Before you know it, you'll be able to spend more time on her again. Hang in there. She's going to be a beaut! :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Nov 24, 2020 7:47 am
by Jeff
Good to hear from you OQ!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Nov 29, 2020 11:00 am
by fallguy1000
Pretty quiet Ken.

Checking in to see how things are.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jul 27, 2021 5:32 pm
by OrangeQuest
So, my build has taken a back seat, way in the back, back seat due to covid restrictions, losing employees, weather- but it all has been taking a toll on the company I manage. To the point I wonder if I will get my next check every week, toll. The weather here has being rain one day and dry the next and the flood gates open and close to the weather, for the last 3 months. They have had a sizable amount of water held back but it has been slowly draining from the two reservoirs to the point that Sunday and early Monday they became empty. Being closed for 3 months with no income hurts any small business and we are now as small as can be and we ran out of belt to cut anymore notches to tighten the belt up any more a few weeks ago.

We, hopefully will open this weekend to do business and start paying bills again. Our big money maker park, that has not had us out since covid broke out, called today wanting us to start coming back out. The bayou is clear and at the right flow levels, the park wants us back. Only problem is, I am the only employee left that know how everything works. I hired 3 today, will see them first time Saturday. I have a single weekend to train 3 new employees, to work at one venue and then next weekend train 3 more new employees to work the park. I am the only driver, cashier, dock hand and boat loader.

Put the battery back into our second vehicle that has set for 3 months and no brakes! Oh, I am the mechanic too.

Since we are going to open back up at the park in a few weeks a local news channel wants an interview with a few kayaks paddling around the little lake in the park. That is tomorrow! Right now I am drinking a beer and hoping all this is just a bad dream. Oh, the park called back and wants our R/C sailboats back out too! :?

So, the heavy layers of dust on the boat will have to wait even longer. I have all the wood, glass, epoxy, electronic, steering and shift/throttle cables, Steering Wheel..only need two tints of hull/deck paint. I even have the seats and the locking swivel seat mounts! Oh, I may need more wire too.
Oh yeah, the hold up has been the motor..need that so I can run the cables.

This is with the hardware setting where they may go and the new hatches.
8722
Older pic of winter before covid
8721
Nice part is the inside hull is sealed so a quick pressure wash will knock off all the dust

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jul 27, 2021 6:19 pm
by narfi
Well it sounds like an overwhelming lot all at once, but money flowing is a good thing. I hope reopening goes smoothly for you and sticks around for all your new guys to become seasoned pros giving you the chance to dabble in epoxy again.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jul 28, 2021 2:45 am
by Fuzz
Yes sir the world has been a mess for lots of folks and it does not seem to be getting much better. I hope you are able to get things back in order and come out of this ok.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jul 28, 2021 7:30 am
by Jeff
OQ, I hope this get much improved for you right away!! Also, good luck with the new employees!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jul 28, 2021 11:53 am
by TomW1
OQ good luck with the start up, hope all goes well and business picks up from here on. This Delta strain really is scaring me that we are going me backwards, hopefully not.

Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jul 28, 2021 1:11 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thanks guys! I also hope all goes well for us. This job is kind of my retirement from the big city and the whole rat race thing.

Jeff, the hard part is just getting them to show up. Since we missed out on all our school event stuff we don't get to many young people that are driven. They are comfortable just living at home or collecting unemployment. But from what I understand, talking to other small business owners in the area, it's hard finding anyone that wants to earn their money. I have had over 50 applicants in a week and asked them all to call for an interview, maybe 9 have called and all of them I hired. Then all they need to do is text me their name and when they can work after the hang up...5 have done that.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jul 28, 2021 1:29 pm
by Jeff
OQ, yes, every single business in our industrial park has help wanted signs in the yards and on their buildings!! Crazy time right now!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue May 31, 2022 7:07 pm
by OrangeQuest
It has been forever since I posted any updates on my build, only reason is lack of the outboard. I need to know where to cut holes for routing the engine controls, then I can work on building and mounting the console and finish routing electrical.

Company has been eating beans and rice when we can afford that and even though the last few years have been a hard struggle, we can see a dim light at the end of the tunnel. First time in forever I have all teenage girl crews. They work harder than the teenage guys I have had and are a lot more fun to work with. With our hot summer coming up I am fighting them on allowing them to wear bikini tops. Part of me says ok but part of me, the father part, says it will draw the wrong attention. I gave in to halt tops. I took them all for pizza after a really good Memorial weekend. They are teenage girls and even though it was mid to high 90s there was no whining like I get with the guys!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue May 31, 2022 9:16 pm
by TomW1
OQ really good to hear from you, May you have a really good summer.

Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jun 02, 2022 4:52 am
by glossieblack
Glad to hear that on balance things are looking up. Hope you can now move forward on your bespoke build.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jun 02, 2022 3:47 pm
by OrangeQuest
The motor was in stock and has been ordered and paid in full! Waiting on FedEx

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Jun 02, 2022 6:28 pm
by Jeff
Good to hear from you OQ!! Congrats on the motor!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jun 03, 2022 5:28 am
by glossieblack
OrangeQuest wrote: Thu Jun 02, 2022 3:47 pm The motor was in stock and has been ordered and paid in full! Waiting on FedEx
Great news! :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jun 04, 2022 6:08 pm
by OrangeQuest
glossieblack wrote: Fri Jun 03, 2022 5:28 am
OrangeQuest wrote: Thu Jun 02, 2022 3:47 pm The motor was in stock and has been ordered and paid in full! Waiting on FedEx
Great news! :D
I now feel the same as a young kid waiting on Christmas Eve to be over with and being able to open the Christmas presents! FedEx has a delivery date of Wed June the 8th!

What is the shelf life of a few sheets of marine ply that has been in dry storage for a few years?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jun 04, 2022 7:37 pm
by TomW1
Marine ply in dry storage will last forever. I deally it should be layed flat so as not to take a permanent curve in it from standig on edge and leaning against a wall.

Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jun 05, 2022 7:20 am
by OrangeQuest
TomW1 wrote: Sat Jun 04, 2022 7:37 pm Marine ply in dry storage will last forever. I deally it should be layed flat so as not to take a permanent curve in it from standig on edge and leaning against a wall.

Tom

It was more of a statement of how long I have bought everything, and it just been sitting around collecting dust. I have 2 sheets of marine grade (6mm and 9mm) I bought a few years ago to finish the built. I still need to make the console and seat stands. My plywood holder does lean to take advantage of the vertical space of our warehouse but the plywood itself is flat against it. Even the cheap stuff I bring from the furniture warehouse will not warp.

I do need to take out all the junk that has been tossed in it over the years and give the hull a good cleaning.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jun 05, 2022 1:49 pm
by TomW1
That is good OQ. If it has grayed and is dirty, first give it a light wash down and then after it drys thouroly a light sand to open up its pores. It will be as good as new. You can wait to do the sand till you have the peices cut so you are not working on a full sheet.

Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jun 08, 2022 2:29 pm
by OrangeQuest
Wow! The motor is here. It was crazy that the onlineoutboards were out of stock of most of their Suzuki outboards a few weeks ago. And it was about a week from order to delivery of the motor. What is even more crazy is that there are no Suzuki dealers near me. Closes is in Kemah 70 miles away or so and don't have this motor for the price I paid.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jun 08, 2022 3:08 pm
by Jeff
Nice OQ!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jul 11, 2022 8:35 am
by OrangeQuest
Another strange thing is hoisting the motor instructions or lacking thereof. Watched a few utube videos, looked for instructions, but they never show how to hoist or attachment points. They all when from one shot of the motor in the crate to motor magical being on the boat. My guess is they just pick the 168lb motor up with friends.

I made a sling and shackled to the motor mount points, then a ratchet strap to the back of the motor to control tilt. Used a "come along" to lift the motor from the crate to the back of the boat. Marked everything, like motor mount holes, where to put steering cable holes and then control cable.

While figuring where the control cables go, I removed the cowling for the first time. There is a hoist eyelet in the center of the motor! BTW, no info on where the cables attach on the motor. But I can see the points tucked under the air intake. Would be nice if Suzuki gave a diagram of the distances the tiller arm moves with the furnished draglink, location of the mounting holes and so on. Few years back I contacted Suzuki and they emailed me the mount hole locations, but you get nothing with the motor.

Well, with the locations of things for the motor now known, I can now start finishing up on the boat, when I have time. At the moment we are busy with making a living and a pinched nerve in my butt area making it painful to stand or sit. Anytime I can, I just laydown flat. :?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jul 20, 2022 4:05 am
by OrangeQuest
Image
Flipped the boat onto a small flat trailer so I could put 4 oz glass on the sides of the hull. After very light fairing, applied thin coat of neat epoxy. After it set long enough, so it was touchable, I flipped the glass over onto it and coated it with neat epoxy. The bottom has been coated with graphite, rough sanded with 80 grit and the whole hull will soon be ready for primer. Once the hull is painted, it will be flipped, and the interior completed. We are hoping it to splash before the end of the year.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jul 20, 2022 9:21 am
by Jeff
Nice OQ!! Good to hear from you!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jul 22, 2022 12:21 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thanks Jeff!


Since I slapped the glass on the side and followed with a thin coat of neat epoxy, this combo is hard to sand! Compared to sanding the graphite bottom, which is a piece of cake compared to straight epoxy. That tells me that glass and neat epoxy is going to be a stronger bottom finish than the graphite. The whole hull will be painted anyway.

I am getting about 2.5 to 3 square feet per 5" sanding disk on the neat epoxy and did the whole half the bottom (graphite) with one disk.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jul 22, 2022 12:39 pm
by Jaysen
That's odd. I had the opposite experience with my recent rework of Lil Bit. What ratio of graphite to epoxy did you use?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jul 22, 2022 1:42 pm
by wpstarling
OrangeQuest wrote: Fri Jul 22, 2022 12:21 pm Thanks Jeff!


Since I slapped the glass on the side and followed with a thin coat of neat epoxy, this combo is hard to sand! Compared to sanding the graphite bottom, which is a piece of cake compared to straight epoxy. That tells me that glass and neat epoxy is going to be a stronger bottom finish than the graphite. The whole hull will be painted anyway.

I am getting about 2.5 to 3 square feet per 5" sanding disk on the neat epoxy and did the whole half the bottom (graphite) with one disk.
2.5 to 3 sq ft is impressive. What grit are you using? I don't get near that, although I know that I change sandpaper more often than I need to :)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jul 23, 2022 7:59 am
by OrangeQuest
wpstarling wrote: Fri Jul 22, 2022 1:42 pm
2.5 to 3 sq ft is impressive. What grit are you using? I don't get near that, although I know that I change sandpaper more often than I need to :)
80 grit sandpaper that you can tell when it slows down how fast it is roughing up the surface it is time to change. I am just using a cheap orbital sander that I leave the dust bag off, pointing the exhaust away from me. You can see the dust flying out the exhaust port and then is blown away with my 40" box fan.
Jaysen wrote: Fri Jul 22, 2022 12:39 pm That's odd. I had the opposite experience with my recent rework of Lil Bit. What ratio of graphite to epoxy did you use?
I do think there is to much graphite in the mix.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Aug 10, 2022 3:12 am
by OrangeQuest
Well, laid the last of the glass on the outside of the hull yesterday. Will rough sand it and do a little fairing, to fill what little weave there is on 3.5oz cloth, on that last side and neat coat the graphite bottom and final prep for primer. A two-part primer that will cover the bottom and the sides to the rub rails, then a poly top coat.

I have one last hole for the 1-1/8" overflow and debating with myself for the location for the ClearVü/SideVü transducer. Mounting it on the transom, easiest method, the SideVü beam maybe blocked by the outboard. Other side of the debate is to cut away the back part of the skeg, use the trolling motor mount as a template to make a plywood mounting base the transducer mounts to. The plywood base is then glued to the hull. The wood base would extend to the transom to cover the transducer wire, which then runs up the transom like a standard transducer mount would. No holes would be drilled into the hull bottom.

Most of me favors the mount it to the hull method but part of me argues that if I ever need to replace the transducer for whatever reason, it would be hard. Nothing a multi-tool can't handle. I also argue that it would get hit a lot, but so does the ones mounted on the transom and as big as this one is, someone would think it is a step and step on it to get in the boat.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Aug 10, 2022 5:25 pm
by TomW1
OQ do you have a trolling motor if so, you will not have a problem with your main motor as you will just tip it up when you get to your fishing spots. You can get transom mounts that will tip up if it hits anything. A side view sonar works better as a transom mount than a hull mount also. I also do not like holes in my hull unless very, very necessary. Good luck on your decision. :D

Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Aug 10, 2022 7:46 pm
by OrangeQuest
TomW1 wrote: Wed Aug 10, 2022 5:25 pm OQ do you have a trolling motor if so, you will not have a problem with your main motor as you will just tip it up when you get to your fishing spots. You can get transom mounts that will tip up if it hits anything. A side view sonar works better as a transom mount than a hull mount also. I also do not like holes in my hull unless very, very necessary. Good luck on your decision. :D

Tom
Thanks for the input, Tom. We will not have a trolling motor so the outboard will be used for trolling speeds. My documentation that came with the unit says the side view works best between 3 and 5 mph and the clear view can work between 25 to 30 mph planning speeds. At the 3 to 5 mph speed, you can use both systems and get 3D images of what is under the hull. That is if there is nothing in the beam's path. It is a EchoMap SV 74U. I have used a Echo S/map for many years in my kayak and then in our canoe and as far as I know, it still works great. Hasn't been used since the start of Covid.

Since we have a transom mounted transducer on our canoe, it is always being adjusted due to bumping into things, workers grabbing it thinking it is something that can be grabbed, hitting the bank launching and recovering, so not a big fan of the transom mount and holes will need to be drilled in the transom, below the water to mount the bracket.

The method I will use to mount the transducer to the bottom of the hull will require no holes in the hull, the skeg will be its first line of defense against getting hit. And I would be more concerned with the lower unit taking a hit than the transducer hiding behind the skeg.

The transducer would be mounted on a piece of 9MM marine plywood, the skeg will be cut away at the back and the transducer/plywood assembly would be glued in its place, so the transducer will not be any closer to the transom than the skeg was. The plywood would be slotted so the cable could run to the transom and up like it was mounted to the transom.

Only downside I see is the squareness of the back of the transducer and slightly wider than the skeg itself. I can glue a teardrop shaped attachment to the back of the transducer, and it would smooth out any excessive turbulence to the outboard.

Anyway, I didn't have much to do today, so I cut out the 9MM plywood and made the mount for the hull. A little sanding and it will be ready for neat epoxy to seal it up. If mounted the transducer sets 1/16th" to 1/8th" lower than the skeg and only sticks out less than an 1/4" on the sides of it. I think I won the debate with myself!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Aug 10, 2022 8:37 pm
by OrangeQuest
This is the transducer, on the plywood mount (before sanding and making look pretty) and placed beside the skeg and you can see how it just fits below the skeg. The cable is in a slot under the plywood base. The base extends to the edge of the transom and after transducer is mounted to the base, the base will be epoxied to the hull.

Image

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Aug 11, 2022 4:55 pm
by OrangeQuest
Since I won the debate and we are going with the under-hull mount, I cut the skeg back and sanded the hull flat just wide enough for the plywood mount piece to glue flat. Where the transducer is rounded, I will fill in the gap with epoxy putty off the skeg once the transducer is mounted and glued in. It will be the same putty used for the fillets around the plywood base.

Two-part epoxy barrier primer has been order, epoxy thinner and topcoat paint. I already have brush thinner so just waiting for UPS to drop off. Meanwhile, I will drill the hole for the overflow drain and the transducer cable.

Question, once the hull has been painted, can I park the hull out in the sun for a few hours and would that help bake the paint for a faster and harder cure?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Aug 11, 2022 6:20 pm
by cape man
With the temps we are dealing with inside in the south I'd just leave it protected from the weather! :help:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Aug 11, 2022 6:44 pm
by TomW1
OQ how far from the transducer did you cut off the skeg, you need about 18" to have clean water to form back for the transducer to work properly at higher speeds. Hope everything works out for you well. Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Aug 11, 2022 8:16 pm
by OrangeQuest
TomW1 wrote: Thu Aug 11, 2022 6:44 pm OQ how far from the transducer did you cut off the skeg, you need about 18" to have clean water to form back for the transducer to work properly at higher speeds. Hope everything works out for you well. Tom
If you look closely to the picture above, it is where the transducer will be mounted in relationship to the skeg. The front of the transducer will butt against the back of the skeg where there will be nothing but smooth flowing water. Then the back of the transducer ends where the skeg ended. Because the squared back of the transducer, it could cause some turbulence, an air pocket, for the lower unit but is very doubtful it will affect water pick up or the prop biting.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Aug 12, 2022 6:04 am
by OrangeQuest
Bird's eye view of wood base and up near the tape roll, the removed part of the skeg.
Image
Side view of base and transducer. That area in front of transducer will get a fillet that mates the skeg and transducer to streamline water flow.
Image
The cable and transducer mounting screws, will be embedded with silicone for easy removal if the transducer needs removing in the future. The transducer must be mounted first then the base epoxied to hull. Multi-tool blade can easily cut the baseplate off with damage to the cable or mounting screws. Hope it never needs to be done.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Aug 17, 2022 6:55 am
by OrangeQuest
The transducer has been mounted, faired, sanded, more sanding and more sanding.

I then pushed the whole boat out into the parking lot while the sun was still blocked by the newly built houses blocking the sun rays. Gave it a quick rinse off, then a soap and water scrub with a brush, then with a sponge and then with a scrubbing pad. Pushed it into the sun rays and watched the water dry off.

Later in the day the epoxy primer and topside paint came in. Plan is to prime the hull all the way up/down to the rub rails but first watch a few videos of how to roll and tip. Will be the first time for me to paint in this fashion.
Pictures of hull basking in the sun.
Image
Image
Image

You can see from one image to the next how fast the hull was drying.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Aug 17, 2022 10:10 am
by OrangeQuest
Push boat back out into sunlight for final inspection. Found a spot that needed more sanding, then another, then another. Sanding seems to be addictive!

So, a few more hours of sanding then a soap bath with scrubbing pad again. No painting today.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Aug 17, 2022 2:25 pm
by Fuzz
Needs more sanding :doh: Here I was thinking "dang that bottom is smooth" :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Aug 17, 2022 3:03 pm
by OrangeQuest
Fuzz wrote: Wed Aug 17, 2022 2:25 pm Needs more sanding :doh: Here I was thinking "dang that bottom is smooth" :D
Yeah, a lot of builders go for that workboat finish and then some the yacht finish, mine is snap pictures while it's still wet finish! Amazing how water hides so much! :lol: :lol: :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Aug 18, 2022 3:48 pm
by OrangeQuest
Our parking lot has the sun block by a new 3 story home till about 10:30 or so. I try to push the boat out into the parking lot and get what I can done to her before I lose that shade. I had a late start, Pettit 2-part primer needs 15 minutes to "relax" after mixing before you can apply it. Rubber gloves on, long pant and long sleeves I was roasting and melting at the same time. Sweat dripping everywhere, so shed the shirt and gloves. Tilt the hand just right and water poured out the gloves. Anyway, got the first coat on and pushed the boat back into the warehouse so it can cure the rest of the day.

The directions say that one coat is good for a primer coat and two coats are a good barrier coat, so will sand and add second coat next week. Not a big fan of this kind of primer/paint, so top side wide get standard Pettit primer with top side paint. Would really like to have a small hint of blue in the topside paint. May order a quart of light blue just to add it to the semi-gloss white I already have.
Image
Image

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Aug 19, 2022 6:18 pm
by OrangeQuest
I want to sand. It is raining, a drizzle. But I have the sanding bug and there is not enough room to sand the sides and transom inside the warehouse. Thinking of putting on swim trunks and wet sanding in the rain. I will see what tomorrow brings, forecast more rain but forecasts have yet to be right this year.

Ordered the final number of Flow-rite fittings and hose, 1-1/8" overflow hose and fittings. I know that this is the best way to have a reliable overflow but man it bites at the pocketbook $$$.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Aug 19, 2022 9:45 pm
by TomW1
Go to the hardware store and get some wet sandpaper. It will let you sand in the drizzle. Looks like you are in for some major rain though from that storm in the Gulf in the next couple of days. Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Aug 20, 2022 5:11 am
by OrangeQuest
TomW1 wrote: Fri Aug 19, 2022 9:45 pm Go to the hardware store and get some wet sandpaper. It will let you sand in the drizzle. Looks like you are in for some major rain though from that storm in the Gulf in the next couple of days. Tom
Thanks Tom.

Almost all my sandpaper for my sanding blocks is wet/dry paper and I cut it to fit my blocks. From 80 grit to 1200 grit, I have a selection. 80, 100,150 and 220 I have the most of and have been using those grits the most often. Only my power tools use non-wet/dry paper and I buy them in the shape of the tools or belts.
A drizzle is not enough to keep the surface rinsed of dust, but I can bucket sand it like I do when the hull is in the warehouse. Temps were in the lower 80s and that is just a little to uncomfortable for this Texan, that's winter temps! :?

We have had these low-pressure systems forming the last few weeks, ruining the weekends, and our business, even though not renting kayaks I get a lot of calls wanting to know why we are not renting in the thunder and lightning but otherwise not raining. Phone has to stay somewhere dry; I have to stop and dry my hands to answer it. Call lasts only a few seconds but it's often enough to be annoying. I am stuck doing little jobs, indoors, and keeping my hands clean. Easy way to do that is on the computer playing video games I can pause, even that gets annoying.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Aug 22, 2022 7:06 pm
by OrangeQuest
Sanding, sanding and more sanding. The directions for my primer is you don't need to thin the two-part epoxy primer but this stuff is thick and I thought the first coat was the 1/4" nap roller I was using but the second coat is orange peel and I think the stuff is just going on to thick! I am happy is sands easy enough. But the next coat I am thinning it out and see what happens.

On another note: the Flow-rite fitting and hose came in today. While I am sanding the orange peel back I can drill and epoxy the hole for the overflow drain. Had to get the fitting in hand to see the OD for the hole. The first time I ordered from Flow-rite, they had a spec PDF that I could see all the dimensions for all their fittings. I was to lazy to look through all my files to find them because I don't remember them having 1-1/8" fittings back then.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Aug 23, 2022 2:07 pm
by OrangeQuest
Some of you that have stated you enjoyed sanding I can start to relate as to how it is a little satisfying...some what. Start sanding a really rough area, it starts to become smooth, you move a little from that spot and you sand more, it becomes smooth and so on. But then you clean up the sanded areas and you are not quiet happy with the results so more sanding with less grit and then more sanding, more cleaning. I am getting down to 320 grit and starting to like my results.

To keep the dust down I have been wet sanding and the sandpaper lasts a lot longer and doesn't clog as easy. To keep from using a ton of water, I am using a bucket and big sponge. I soak the sponge and just lay it at the top of where I am sanding, water drains out of it at a nice stream. Two days and I have half the hull and 3/4 of one side. Other half of hull looks better than before I started.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Aug 25, 2022 1:56 pm
by OrangeQuest
After wet sanding and then washing with soapy water and rinse.
Image
Image


Close up of sanding thru primer.
Image

After white high build primer, so much easier to use! And looks like a lot less sanding for next coat.
Image

So I only had a little left of a quart of the high build primer but will be ordering a gallon to finish off the rest of the boat. And getting 3/16th nap rollers.
Due to the two part epoxy primer already on the hull, there will be only one more coat of high build before the boat gets the top coat.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Aug 25, 2022 3:20 pm
by TomW1
OQ if it was me I would put two layers of high build primer on at least the areas sanded down to bare wood. The places you are having trouble with are high spots that you did not get enough fairing built up to. Good luck. Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Aug 25, 2022 9:42 pm
by OrangeQuest
TomW1 wrote: Thu Aug 25, 2022 3:20 pm OQ if it was me I would put two layers of high build primer on at least the areas sanded down to bare wood. The places you are having trouble with are high spots that you did not get enough fairing built up to. Good luck. Tom
Yes, that is exactly what I am going to do. Just have to wait for next month's budget to get more high build. Half the price for a quart that I can buy a gallon for so even if I don't use it all I am getting a gallon and the 3/16" nap rollers.

I was expecting the 2-part epoxy to lay smooth like the marine epoxy does using the 1/4" nap rollers, but it does not, and it doesn't fill like the high build does...All I can say is WTH?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2022 7:35 am
by OrangeQuest
My gallon of Pettit high build primer came in yesterday and just waiting for the sun to warm the warehouse up a little. Seems today is going to be a nice day to paint! 68 deg. this morning, this time of year and being in Houston, that's winter temps! Only thing I don't like is the 79% humidity. The hull has been prepped for the primer now for over a week or so, but I wiped it all down yesterday with non-drinking alcohol. Will do a wipe down with petitt brush thinner this morning before rolling the primer on. Want to try and get two coats on before noon and the warehouse starts really heating up. I am very excited to get this far but just want to get the hull painted and flipped back over.

My next, and hope the last major order, will be a set of bunk brackets, bunk carpet, transom saver, and transom tiedowns. I want to have a slightly blue tint to the deck paint so may need to order a quart of light blue to mix with the white.

The extra bunks are going to mount closer to the skeg, so it protects the bow from making contact with the trailer and to provide a more self-centering approach. Then I can move the outer bunks more outward to support the hull when climbing in on the sides and the boat is trailered.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2022 1:34 pm
by OrangeQuest
Two coats of high builder primer.
Image
Image

It's not that my painting skills have improved, my taking picture skills have.

What you can't see is the two gnats, a pair of Fudge bugs and a bee that got stuck in the paint. Plan on doing a little light sanding in the morning and see if I am ready for the top side paint.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2022 1:41 pm
by Jeff
Looks good OQ!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2022 1:59 pm
by Fuzz
Taking pictures from the right angle is one of the most important skills a forum member can have :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2022 3:40 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thanks Jeff!

Fuzz wrote: Wed Sep 14, 2022 1:59 pm Taking pictures from the right angle is one of the most important skills a forum member can have :lol:
I have been learning from the pros on here! :lol: :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2022 4:22 pm
by TomW1
Looks ready for paint from here OQ. Well done!! Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2022 6:47 pm
by OrangeQuest
TomW1 wrote: Wed Sep 14, 2022 4:22 pm Looks ready for paint from here OQ. Well done!! Tom
Thanks TomW. After the primer dried, I pushed it out in the sun and baked it a little. Then a little sanding and it's not taking too much. But after seeing Cape Man's sanding pictures, I think it needs more sanding. I have been practicing the one finger sanding technique on a few spots today. Some things you just can't un-see.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2022 7:25 pm
by Jaysen
OrangeQuest wrote: Wed Sep 14, 2022 6:47 pm Some things you just can't un-see.
And that is why God created rum right after Adam. “I wasn’t expecting him to find that until Eve was around… Damn my eternal memory! How do we scrub that? I have an idea!! Let there be RUUMMMM!”

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2022 11:49 pm
by TomW1
OrangeQuest wrote: Wed Sep 14, 2022 6:47 pm
TomW1 wrote: Wed Sep 14, 2022 4:22 pm Looks ready for paint from here OQ. Well done!! Tom
Thanks TomW. After the primer dried, I pushed it out in the sun and baked it a little. Then a little sanding and it's not taking too much. But after seeing Cape Man's sanding pictures, I think it needs more sanding. I have been practicing the one finger sanding technique on a few spots today. Some things you just can't un-see.
Be very careful with the sanding after only 2 coats you can easily be back through to the fiberglass. :lol: On a bigger boat this is where I would suggest you apply a guide coat and lightly sand to show the lows and the highs to further smooth the bottom. Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Sep 15, 2022 12:32 pm
by OrangeQuest
TomW1 wrote: Wed Sep 14, 2022 11:49 pm
Be very careful with the sanding after only 2 coats you can easily be back through to the fiberglass. :lol: On a bigger boat this is where I would suggest you apply a guide coat and lightly sand to show the lows and the highs to further smooth the bottom. Tom
At this point in the painting job, I do not want to mix any other chemicals that are not Petitt brand made for the primer or the paint I am going to use. Right now I am feeling for areas I feel sand/dust and paint roller dimples on the surface, it is still just a rough surface. I am starting with a few strokes of 120 grit with my 10" board, then 220 grit on my 8" board and finishing with 320 grit in my 6" palm board. All being done by hand. The 220 and the 320 take a few more strokes but I like the way it feels afterwards. It is a very slow process of sanding a few strokes, brush off dust from the hull, wipe dust build up on the sandpaper and feel for the smoothness. I have done one half of the bottom and 1/4 of the side in this manner and only a very few places can you start to see the gray color of the two-part epoxy primer below. What I am after is a smooth surface to put the top side paint on.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Sep 15, 2022 8:10 pm
by OrangeQuest
Sanding is done for today and a final wash down to remove any sanding dust. I will inspect in the morning and see if I need more primer, more sanding or I am ready for topside paint. Took my 2 quarts of topside into Home Depot today and had them put them on their shaker.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Sep 16, 2022 3:21 pm
by OrangeQuest
This is left over from the two part primer. I sanded this where I can't feel it anymore but wash all the dust off and there are still all these craters. High build primer hasn't filled them in.

Image

This feels really smooth and think it is ready for topside.
Image
Not a painter and this is very frustrating.
Can't paint today so will come back around to it Monday.

EDIT: As the evening started to cool down, I went back and started using the "mouse" detail sander I have. Little 18V corner sander that I picked up by Ryobi that uses all the battery packs I have. It did knock down a lot of those dimples and a little hand sanding with 220 grit and it smooths things out nicely. Will not know for sure till I wash all the dust off. If I ever get satisfied with the primer finish, I may try the top side paint...someday.

What a pain. :|

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Sep 18, 2022 6:26 pm
by OrangeQuest
Smooth is overrated, sanding is overrated, and more sanding is overrated. Getting the hull ready for painting is WAY OVERRATED!
Prepping the hull is not for me, I am not enjoying it and I really have to push myself to keep going. I have even tried looking at the finish of the primer without my reader glasses and I see to much or I think I see to much and have to confirm what I am seeing by getting my glasses. I feel like one side from centerline to rub rail is ready and can start on the other side in the morning.

What sucks is it is the bottom of the boat, no one will see the bottom of the boat! but it becomes the sides of the boat and can't get the sides smooth without getting the bottom smooth too. Just can't seem to let it go.

I have a portable, rechargeable shop light I hold to the edge of the hull and all the shadows look like the shots of the surface of the moon. At what point is smooth, smooth enough to add top side paint to get a smooth finish that looks wet still?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Sep 18, 2022 8:13 pm
by Jaysen
Go back to 80g and make it “ok but rough”. Prime it again. Use 120 this time. Prime. Use 220.

If you’re rolling use a tighter foam or smaller nap. You can try thinning a bit but then you’ll have to deal with more coats.

That’s what I’ve had to do anyway.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Sep 19, 2022 7:25 am
by OrangeQuest
Jaysen wrote: Sun Sep 18, 2022 8:13 pm Go back to 80g and make it “ok but rough”. Prime it again. Use 120 this time. Prime. Use 220.

If you’re rolling use a tighter foam or smaller nap. You can try thinning a bit but then you’ll have to deal with more coats.

That’s what I’ve had to do anyway.
Thank you for taking the time to offer your suggestions. I am rolling with a 1/4" nap roller, did not like the results of a foam roller and changed out after a few strokes. After today it may get another coat, or two, of primer and use even thinner paint so it lays down smoother.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Sep 19, 2022 8:06 am
by Jaysen
One of the special stores (I think it’s sherwin) has a 1/8” nap. I think it’s called a “furniture finish” or “cabinet finish” roller. Might be easier to find online if you can wait for shipping.

I can paint for fecal matter. Using this ridiculous rollers makes it much easier to get to a nice end product.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Sep 19, 2022 9:54 am
by OrangeQuest
Jaysen wrote: Mon Sep 19, 2022 8:06 am One of the special stores (I think it’s sherwin) has a 1/8” nap. I think it’s called a “furniture finish” or “cabinet finish” roller. Might be easier to find online if you can wait for shipping.

I can paint for fecal matter. Using this ridiculous rollers makes it much easier to get to a nice end product.
The paint supply store I was going to order more 3/16th" roller from has the 1/8" rollers too. Thank you for that advice.

But, since I have now finished the sanding smooth of the hull and sides, it is dimple free. I did sand through the white high build primer down to the gray epoxy primer I first started using in a few spots but not down to the neat epoxy. I think it is ready for a thinner solvent scrub and paint!!

I may try a few coats of the top coat with the 3/16th rollers I have now and if needed will order the 1/8" rollers. Since I will be back to sanding again.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Sep 20, 2022 1:57 pm
by OrangeQuest
Well, as is normal for me, and tossed common sense out the window. I rolled the hull out into the parking lot and put the first coat of topside paint on by 9 this morning. Just finished the second coat. Having to add a extra amount of thinner so I can keep a wet edge to tip. Second coat I put on inside the warehouse with the doors open, lights on in the bow area so I could see and big fan moving some air. Could roll more than 2 foot without having to come back and tip. At time if I took to long it would start to get a little tacky. With it going on so thin, I will need a few more coats but will need to wait till it cools off a little.

One thing for sure, that paint will get baked on to the hull with these temps.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Sep 20, 2022 5:36 pm
by OrangeQuest
Cannot believe my paint job looks pretty good! I have some sanding to do and maybe one more coat, but it is smooth. Then breakout the fine sandpaper and the rubbing compound! :(

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Sep 20, 2022 11:11 pm
by TomW1
Why the :( face OQ you almost have it and unless you have runs or other big anomalies no more sanding just rubbing compound if you even need that. I will leave that up to you a lot depends on the paint you used. Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Sep 21, 2022 7:18 am
by OrangeQuest
TomW1 wrote: Tue Sep 20, 2022 11:11 pm Why the :( face OQ you almost have it and unless you have runs or other big anomalies no more sanding just rubbing compound if you even need that. I will leave that up to you a lot depends on the paint you used. Tom
One more coat is needed, and even though some may enjoy sweating so much you can't see the hull due to a stream of sweat pouring off the forehead and can't wear gloves due to sweat pouring out of them and risk a stream hitting the paint. And at the same time, you are trying to wipe sweat from your face with a CLEAN paper towel you have to keep rolling and tipping on a disappearing wet edge that anything more than 24" and you lose that edge. Stop to wipe your face and the wet edge starts to get tacky. Then you notice a few bugs are looking for a nice white surface to land on.

The paint is from the recycle center that I was able to pick up 2 gallons of purple latex interior house paint for $2.00. Only had a few lumps in it. Even though it is more expensive than I normally use I figured I should use the best. Since the paint is what makes for a good finish and not the method.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Sep 21, 2022 5:53 pm
by OrangeQuest
Well, enough drying for a 4th coat.
Image
Image

Keep in mind it is semi-gloss and still needs a very light sanding and some compounding. But I am happy to this point. As long as it all stays on.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Sep 21, 2022 6:04 pm
by Jeff
Looks good OQ!!! Nice work!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Sep 21, 2022 6:14 pm
by OrangeQuest
Jeff wrote: Wed Sep 21, 2022 6:04 pm Looks good OQ!!! Nice work!!! Jeff
Thanks Jeff.

It has been a long road to get her this far and that road had a lot of potholes! :lol:

Now for the harder part, the top side.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Sep 21, 2022 6:41 pm
by Jeff
Almost there OQ!!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Sep 21, 2022 6:46 pm
by cape man
Nice!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Sep 21, 2022 10:47 pm
by TomW1
Looks great!!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Sep 22, 2022 5:54 am
by OrangeQuest
Thanks guys! I had a few beers (3) last night to celebrate getting the boat to this point.

Today I will spend the morning getting her flipped back over and on her trailer. So happy I can finally start to mount things to her, to stay!

EDIT: I will add one thing. I spent a lot more money on paint brushes and roller sleeves to get the very best finish I could get with my budget. My last coat I ran out of the sleeves and brushes for lack of enough thinner. So, I used my 1/4 nap 6" rollers that I am stocked up on and a cheap foam brush that is fairly soft for tipping. I could not believe I got the same, if not a little better, results with the cheaper stuff. Still need to lite sand bugs and lint from the finish but the end results are the same. Some of you may get a lot better results with deeper pockets but for a poor man this method worked great.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Sep 23, 2022 3:18 am
by glossieblack
Nice steady progress. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Sep 30, 2022 2:02 pm
by OrangeQuest
Quick update:
Measured where the seats would go and how high the stands need to be, cut them and put a coat of neat epoxy on inside areas. Next will be gluing all the pieces together and installing a mount for the speakers (cut outs). Have not came up with a location for the other pair of speakers, if I even use them. Mixed up too much epoxy so as it was heating up, I went back and slap more on and you can see there was some sticking and roller coming apart.
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Today, I cut out for the strikers on all the rear hatches and test mounted them. Will need a little neat epoxy, detailed sanding and then primer.

Image

Mounting the strikers and getting the slam latches to catch was a challenge for the first one, a few hours, but once I figured out how to do it the other four went quickly. All the metal parts will come back off and the hatches primed, then painted before they go back on. It was nice to finally get those hatches working.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Oct 01, 2022 1:52 am
by Fuzz
Nice fitting hatches!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Oct 01, 2022 4:35 am
by OrangeQuest
Fuzz wrote: Sat Oct 01, 2022 1:52 am Nice fitting hatches!
Thanks Fuzz! I was going for "they work and stay closed" look!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Oct 01, 2022 11:29 pm
by TomW1
I agree really nice OQ! Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Oct 02, 2022 6:36 pm
by OrangeQuest
TomW1 wrote: Sat Oct 01, 2022 11:29 pm I agree really nice OQ! Tom
Thanks Tom.

Some of the builders make hatch making look so easy but for me it was a headache and then rewarding at the same time.

I still need to put a little foam gasket in them to keep them from rattling but after they are painted. They are not expected to be watertight, as two are for bait and live wells, cooler, anchor locker and control valve locker. I also did the front deck hatches, but it was after this picture.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Oct 02, 2022 7:38 pm
by BarraMan
Mounting the strikers and getting the slam latches to catch was a challenge for the first one, a few hours, but once I figured out how to do it the other four went quickly.
Yeah, 6 yrs later and I still haven't figured that one out! 8O :doh:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Oct 02, 2022 9:27 pm
by OrangeQuest
BarraMan wrote: Sun Oct 02, 2022 7:38 pm
Mounting the strikers and getting the slam latches to catch was a challenge for the first one, a few hours, but once I figured out how to do it the other four went quickly.
Yeah, 6 yrs later and I still haven't figured that one out! 8O :doh:
The front strikers were extremely easy as I was able to pull the fore deck off and work from the bottom. Shimmed the striker enough and glued the shim down. The 90 deg angle striker became a plate with slots to adjust the contact point of the latch.

The aft strikers would be easier to take pictures to explain them.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Oct 03, 2022 1:32 pm
by OrangeQuest
I have a lip the hatch mates to that is narrower than the striker depth. Predrilled the striker mounting holes as close as possible to the deck. With the multi tool I cut out a relief below the deck and into the lip and cleat. The relief depth needs to be deep enough, so the hatch lip doesn't hit the striker mounting screws, and the hatch still sets flush. Also have to clearance back enough so the striker can be adjusted to hold the latch catch without hitting the latch body.
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The striker needs to be bent to about a 50 to 60 deg angle to also clear the latch body and just the catch hits it.
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Striker mounted.
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The wood will get sealed before the locker gets final painting.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Oct 20, 2022 1:49 pm
by OrangeQuest
Been doing a lot of little detail work and trying to get the motor mounted before the end of Oct.

Here are all the hatches with the first coat of paint. Custom color. Was hoping for less color.
Image

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Oct 20, 2022 1:50 pm
by Jeff
Looks really good OQ!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Oct 20, 2022 6:17 pm
by TomW1
+1 Your getting close. Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Oct 20, 2022 6:52 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thanks guys!

I am trying to get everything in the stern ready so I can mount the motor and fire it up for the first time, painting the area is the last thing... The steering cable must be mounted to the motor at the same time it is lowered to the transom due to a small motor well. I may be moving the build soon too and want the motor on so the boat will be easier to transport.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Oct 25, 2022 8:38 pm
by OrangeQuest
Since the back part of the build is painted, I mounted the motor. It came with everything but shift and throttle cables and steering cable. It is pretty much, plug and play. Since the motor was mounted. I filled a 30-gallon trash barrel and fired it up the first time. It was able to start off the same 7amp deer feeder battery I was using to adjust the tilt of the motor. After this picture I connected the control cables so I can figure out where I can place the helm. Still seems to be going where I measured it a few years ago when I ordered all the cables.

Image

I also cut the ribs to support the gunnels and getting closer to gluing in the floor. Will be building a small mounting box for the control box then can start on the console.

Personal note: take the time to shop around. Prices vary a lot from company to company as much as twice to three times as much. I am adding extra set of bunkers to my trailer and the price of just the U-bolts at a marine shop compared to hardware shop is unbelievable. Need 4 U-bolts, why should I pay $50 to $60 when I can get them for $24.00? My list of retailers I have been buying from has been increasing every time I need something, and cost of shipping sometimes plays a big part.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Nov 01, 2022 7:25 pm
by OrangeQuest
Things are still moving along, faster than I can take pictures of. I made a small box to mount to the side of the boat so I can attach the throttle/shift controls. After it was glued, I temporarily mounted the control box and connected the cables. Reason I mounted them is so I can see how the cables will lay under the gunnels and I can cut the holes before mounting the ribs. Since I know where the control box is going, could better figure out where I am going to sit and the height of the seats.

I had to build boxes to mount the seats on and the "navigator" seat box needed to be big enough for the 6.5-gallon tank to partially slide under. Enough of the tank sticks out so I can glance over and see the fuel level gauge. It also is enough to strap it down. They will be getting coated with the epoxy primer once they are faired.

Just finished gluing the two outer panels of the floor in. The center panel will come next but need to work out a few electrical details and a water drain test to make sure all is sealed up between the frames. Any water comes from the bow lockers goes below the sole to the bilge via a drain tube. Want to make sure that happens with no leaks. Hoping once the hatches get their seals, only a small amount of water will get past them. And of course, water and mud from when we hoist anchor.

Will try to post a few pictures of the seat boxes in the cockpit and a few of the other things that have been done soon.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Nov 03, 2022 1:59 am
by glossieblack
Nice progress OQ. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Nov 03, 2022 6:04 am
by OrangeQuest
glossieblack wrote: Thu Nov 03, 2022 1:59 am Nice progress OQ. :D
Thank you! Welcome back!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Nov 03, 2022 8:53 am
by OrangeQuest
Things that have been getting done the last few days. No matter how much I clean up, as soon as I start working the shop gets scattered again, don't mind the mess. It's easier to find the dust that way.

The seat boxes, cut and waiting for the neat epoxy to cure. Assembled them the next day.

Image
Test fitted the tank under the seat box.
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And what the seat would look like on the box. At this point there were a few trips to the boat, climb in and sit on this seat on both seat boxes.
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Two outter sections of the floor are glued in and the middle section is ready to be glued in. Just one final test before the floor is glued in completely.
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Different angle
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Need that close up.
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Once the floor is glued down and cured. It gets all the gaps filled and faired, as that is curing a coat of neat epoxy and a layer of the 3.5-4 oz cloth. This is where the remaining epoxy primer will be used up after all is cured.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Nov 03, 2022 8:58 am
by OrangeQuest
Things that have been getting done the last few days. No matter how much I clean up, as soon as I start working the shop gets scattered again, don't mind the mess. It's easier to find the dust that way.

The seat boxes, cut and waiting for the neat epoxy to cure. Assembled them the next day.

Image
Test fitted the tank under the seat box.
Image
And what the seat would look like on the box. At this point there were a few trips to the boat, climb in and sit on this seat on both seat boxes.
Image
Two outter sections of the floor are glued in and the middle section is ready to be glued in. Just one final test before the floor is glued in completely.
Image
Different angle
Image
Need that close up.
Image

Once the floor is glued down and cured. It gets all the gaps filled and faired, as that is curing a coat of neat epoxy and a layer of the 3.5-4 oz cloth. This is where the remaining epoxy primer will be used up after all is cured.

Question still remains....Will it float!? :doh:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Nov 03, 2022 11:22 pm
by Fuzz
I am betting it will not only float but look darn good doing it too :wink:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Nov 05, 2022 10:25 am
by OrangeQuest
Fuzz wrote: Thu Nov 03, 2022 11:22 pm I am betting it will not only float but look darn good doing it too :wink:
Thanks, I am going for the, it looks good as long as you are not to close style!

I glued the center section of the floor it a few days ago and yesterday fairing and filling in gaps and micro cracks. The morning started out with sanding everything down and prep to lay cloth down, which after second cup of tea, that was done and out of epoxy. Just a few grams of hardener left.

This brings me to the dash part of the build. I will be toying with different designs while waiting for this month's budget funds to become available. The gunnels and ribs have all been cut and ready for neat epoxy. I still need to cut holes in the ribs for chase tubes to run through, but I am in no hurry for that. Hoping to have a pile of cut pieces to neat epoxy the dash pieces too in a few weeks. The dash is the last part of the build!!! 8O

Will be ordering a tach, voltmeter and hour meter and that will be the end of the budget.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Nov 11, 2022 3:29 pm
by OrangeQuest
Slowly knocking away at a few things while waiting for this month's supplies to be delivered. Trying to get as much cut and ready for a Tuesday delivery. To then start coating all the dash pieces with neat epoxy. The dash itself will need to be trimmed down to fit better, but it is close. Will still need to make a frame to support the center of it so..theres that.

Here are a few pictures of the test fitting of the electronics after their openings were cut out. The edge of the circle is the steering wheel area. The mount for it has also been cut out with an extra piece of 9MM plywood for a backer.
Image
Image

Still need to cut out for the switch/breaker panel/two bilge pump switches/tach/voltmeter and an hour meter.

The voltmeter and hour meter will be on the port side of the helm and the tach will be on the starboard side closer to the throttle controls.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Nov 11, 2022 4:19 pm
by Jeff
Nice toys OQ!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Nov 11, 2022 5:41 pm
by cape man
+1

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Nov 11, 2022 5:51 pm
by OrangeQuest
Jeff wrote: Fri Nov 11, 2022 4:19 pm Nice toys OQ!!! Jeff
Thanks!

Guess I should mention what they are. Starting from the top:
Garmin is a ECHOMAP UHD 74 SV. Came with the side view transducer
Under that is the Poly-Planar MDR 87i IPX6 marine stereo with 4 speakers
Last is a Standard Horizon Matrix AIS/GPS GX2200

I got a 4 foot Shakespeare VHF antenna with a VHF/FM adapter. Don't foresee any offshore adventures but will be traveling in commercial traffic areas like the ICW and Houston Ship channel. So the AIS will come in handy. When kayaking in the same areas I loved listening to all the boat traffic and USCG chatter on my handheld. If I can't receive very well, I may upgrade to the 8 foot ant. and a SS ball mount.

Both the VHF and the stereo have weather bands and all three units can be networked together. I did download all the owner's manuals and installation instructions off the web, printed them, hole punched them and put them in a 3 ring binder for easier reviewing.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Nov 12, 2022 7:17 pm
by OrangeQuest
The results of not having epoxy to glue thing together!

Please keep in the front panel was trim with extra wood left so I can zero in on exact trim once everything is closer to being ready to glue in. I want to use the boat to tack these pieces together round the edges, so they are not so boxy looking. Thinking over size cedar cleats then cut the corners down by 45 deg and round those over. via sanding. The sweep of the front panel is at 45 deg of the deck and has the same profile as the front deck or will have. Still working on the exact angle the dash will sit into this pocket. The bottom will be open for electronic access but will have a removeable panel for future access.
Image

The frame that is supporting the center bar clamp will be removed in favor of the dual batteries. The small frame behinds it and the dash will be way more support than the frame alone and it's in the way now.
Front angle view. The name of the boat will go across here or on the two side panels. You can see that the sweep is more old fashion runabout than a more modern style. But I want to keep as much open space in the cockpit as possible. And the look reminds me of my Dad's old cuddy cabin boat.
Image

I like to feel more enclosed when setting at the helm and this feel comfortable to me even if the lines are not quiet right.

To help get the side panels to match the curve of the side, I cut 3/8" deep slots in the rub rail a 1/4" away from the edge to embed the panels in. Once everything is tacked into place I will fine tune everything and that includes the fit of the dah/instrument panel.

It may not be the prettiest but it sure will draw attention! :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Nov 13, 2022 9:19 am
by Dougster
It's gonna be a special FS14 and sure has my attention! Been fun following your build.

Dougster

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Nov 13, 2022 9:45 am
by pee wee
It's hard to tell scale sometimes, but looking at the photo I wonder how easy it will be to access the contents of those bow hatches, and if you will have need to do that. I like the look of what you have mocked up, and I'm sure you've given every detail lots of thought, just had to post for my curiosity. It's nice to see the boat coming along so well, it looks great!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Nov 13, 2022 5:52 pm
by OrangeQuest
pee wee wrote: Sun Nov 13, 2022 9:45 am It's hard to tell scale sometimes, but looking at the photo I wonder how easy it will be to access the contents of those bow hatches, and if you will have need to do that. I like the look of what you have mocked up, and I'm sure you've given every detail lots of thought, just had to post for my curiosity. It's nice to see the boat coming along so well, it looks great!
Thank you!

To answer your question, it can be a little higher and I still clear to reach the hatches, both of them. Port hatch is fender locker and starboard is the forward anchor locker.
Image
Image
Image

After seeing these pictures...I look old, and I think I should cut the curve out of the top.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Nov 13, 2022 8:05 pm
by Dan_Smullen
Don’t cut it yet! I like the style added to an otherwise center console platform.

Re: the stereo. Are the speakers integrated into that head unit?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Nov 14, 2022 6:11 am
by OrangeQuest
Dan_Smullen wrote: Sun Nov 13, 2022 8:05 pm Don’t cut it yet! I like the style added to an otherwise center console platform.

Re: the stereo. Are the speakers integrated into that head unit?
I like the way the curve part over hangs the electronics, so it has a function, which may win over looks. Even though the dash panel itself will be flat with no arch, the top will have to be trimmed to match the arch of the front piece.

I had bought 2 pair of speakers. One pair will mount under the dash and the other pair at the aft end of the boat. With the speaker wires running down each gunnel with their own chase tubes. The transducer cable will run down the port side with the fuel line, each in .75" ID chase tubes, then the speaker wire will be .25" ID tubes just below those. The VHF ant mounts to the starboard side aft and the cable will be routed along with the engine harness. Which, due to so many large connectors, the engine harness needs a very large size hole to route through the ribs. I may just use a cut out to hang the harness and wire tie to hold it in place.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Nov 14, 2022 9:51 am
by pee wee
I should have known you had already done the thinking and planning on the hatch ergonomics! I was afraid you'd be on tiptoe, putting weight on the windscreen to reach your anchor, but it looks like no problem!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Nov 14, 2022 12:56 pm
by OrangeQuest
pee wee wrote: Mon Nov 14, 2022 9:51 am I should have known you had already done the thinking and planning on the hatch ergonomics! I was afraid you'd be on tiptoe, putting weight on the windscreen to reach your anchor, but it looks like no problem!
:lol: :lol: YES! I am old and so plan on not having to climb around to much. The "windscreen" will be strong enough that if some young person wants to lay on the forward deck to sunbath then it will work nicely. 8)

Even though the boat will have work duties, at times (mostly) it will also be used for just pleasure.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Nov 20, 2022 7:42 pm
by OrangeQuest
So we normally have mild winters where it dips down a few times in the lower 40s or so a year and once every few years freezing temps. But the final stretch to finish my build, the temps are staying in the 40s and 50s. Which the sun came out and got up to the high range of 50s. All I have left is SLOW hardener, needs to be 70 degs plus to use. Forecast is saying we will remain below 70s for the foreseeable future. Now I know how some of you more northern builders feel this time of year. Our winter isn't here till after the new year! Then it's till the end of February. Few years ago we got a big deep freeze where temps were in the 20s for almost a week. Then in March we were in the 70s and 80s. This blows! :?

Mixed the last of my medium and fast hardener together, (drained the jugs into a mixing cup) weighed in at 49 grams. So, I poured in about 110 grams of resin yesterday to glue up a few critical pieces and still waiting today for the epoxy to reach hard cure to sand, can't even remove the clamps right now. I am risking laying a piece of glass across the dash panel which can't go in until I can glue in the windscreen piece. At these temps it's taking 3 to 4 full days for the epoxy to get hard.

All my pieces for the gunnels, chase tubes and everything else I can figure out has been done. Just waiting on Mother Nature to turn the heat up a little. So much for trying to finish this thing this year.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Nov 20, 2022 7:49 pm
by Jaysen
A portable radiator style heater and a tarp will speed thing up for you. That’s how I manage “winter” epoxy work.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Nov 21, 2022 9:16 am
by OrangeQuest
Jaysen wrote: Sun Nov 20, 2022 7:49 pm A portable radiator style heater and a tarp will speed thing up for you. That’s how I manage “winter” epoxy work.
Hmmm? I do have a couple of 10'X10' canopies with walls I could put up and a Mr Heater propane camp heater that could push these low 40s up some. But I may get one less day of waiting and waste a lot of propane. I would have to heat the inside of the cockpit due to needing to glue in the ribs and gunnel cap pieces.

I think this is Mother Nature's way of making me have patience. It feels like waiting in a long line to go pee due to many stadium beers.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Nov 21, 2022 11:23 am
by Jaysen
Avoid propane. Adds a lot of moisture which could increase blush opportunity. If you are ok dealing with blush, use what you’ve got. I’m lazy electric for me.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Nov 21, 2022 12:55 pm
by OrangeQuest
Jaysen wrote: Mon Nov 21, 2022 11:23 am Avoid propane. Adds a lot of moisture which could increase blush opportunity. If you are ok dealing with blush, use what you’ve got. I’m lazy electric for me.
Yeah, I know of the moisture in propane, it's 92% here and rainy so it wouldn't matter much...maybe make it 100%? Tomorrow forecast is low 60s and sunny, I think, but a better day to do gluing up of stuff. On the upside with this epoxy taking so long to cure, get a lot of time to soak deep into the wood. A neat coat will look dry after the first 24 hours and then a coat of "glue" will bond very nicely.

I am having to wait for my PEVA foam flooring to get here anyway. That will be one of the last things to go down. It's the same foam used for paddleboards and jet ski seats. It should hold up fairly well, just white may stain easier. Our SUPs I just sand the stain a little, bleach/tide and stain come right off. They stain with red clay mud all the time. It is also very light weight. I didn't want to go with the grit in paint route. I have been using the stuff the last few years and happy with it.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Nov 23, 2022 1:44 pm
by OrangeQuest
Here is the wind deflector test fitted while it was so cold (43 deg). You can tell that it is cold, dark and damp from the lighting. That is during the day.
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Side view. The sides are glued and cured so I can now mount the front piece. The sides have had more than 48 hours to harden, they are close. It reached upper 50s before dark, so I went ahead and glued the front piece on. It's a nice fit with lots of overhang to sand down.
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Night and day difference! Wheeled the boat outside once it got to the high 50s this morning, it's now 71 with 39% humidity. Can see the front piece has been glued on and just needs a few days to cure and get rock hard.
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You can see the oversize cleats I used in the corners. Will sand this area a lot to get a nice curve and hope it doesn't stay looking so boxy. Will also sand down the top of the front piece to add a little more arch to it.
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Final test fitting the gunnel pieces. After this picture I did the other side and now all pieces have had a coat of neat epoxy and will be doing the glue up here in an hour or so.
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Next few days are forecasted to be scattered thunderstorms and temps reaching mid 70s again. Back to a normal winter. Shouldn't affect the cure to much.

I was trying to take advantage of the sun coming out and warming the parking lot up quickly and with my boat out there, it also warmed up quickly. My neat coat was still wet but soaked into the wood nicely and so was trying to get everything glued up into place while things are still warming up. The parking lot next to us only has trees along the fence line and the lawn service is out the second time this week, for next door. The blower guy keeps walking back and forth blowing all the leaves over to our side of the fence, which is where I pushed my boat so it would be in the shade of the trees. :? After yelling at him there wasn't much more I could do but push my boat back into the warehouse. Which I noticed is starting to warm up nicely, so guess it was a good thing and who doesn't love sanding dirt, sand, grass clipping and leaves out of neat epoxy?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Nov 23, 2022 2:44 pm
by Jeff
Nice progress OQ!!!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Nov 24, 2022 8:52 am
by pee wee
OrangeQuest wrote: Wed Nov 23, 2022 1:44 pm You can see the oversize cleats I used in the corners. Will sand this area a lot to get a nice curve and hope it doesn't stay looking so boxy.
If you're referring to how boxy the cleats are, why not trim them up to taste? It would have been easier to shape them before gluing, but some careful work with a chisel and small plane would put a bevel on the corners. My first thought was a router with an offset base, but you probably don't have one and I'm not sure that would do any better. Good to see you're making some real progress on the Bayou City Boat!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Nov 24, 2022 11:21 am
by OrangeQuest
Thank Jeff!
pee wee wrote: Thu Nov 24, 2022 8:52 am
OrangeQuest wrote: Wed Nov 23, 2022 1:44 pm You can see the oversize cleats I used in the corners. Will sand this area a lot to get a nice curve and hope it doesn't stay looking so boxy.
If you're referring to how boxy the cleats are, why not trim them up to taste? It would have been easier to shape them before gluing, but some careful work with a chisel and small plane would put a bevel on the corners. My first thought was a router with an offset base, but you probably don't have one and I'm not sure that would do any better. Good to see you're making some real progress on the Bayou City Boat!
No, the cleats were made with the correct angles to fit in the corners and were made bigger so I could round the outside corners with a bigger radius. I just started rounding them with a 18" belt sander and 80 grit belt. Takes a lot of material off fast. I don't have a squared off corner and still have enough cleat to offer support.
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Overhead view:
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The port side before any sanding, note how squared it is.
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After playing with that for a while I decided I needed to get the dash fitted and glued in. Have today at a low 71 degs then next 2 days wet with highs in low 60s. So the two days of low temps the dash can set up and cure.

Image

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Nov 25, 2022 9:49 am
by pee wee
Sorry, OQ, I was trying to find more work for you when that's the last thing you need. What I was looking at was the inside of the windscreen and the square corner that would now be awkward to work on! I thought that was what you referred to, or I wouldn't have said anything.

You're making good progress, keep at it and don't let outside influences sandbag you.


Image

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Nov 26, 2022 3:08 am
by OrangeQuest
pee wee wrote: Fri Nov 25, 2022 9:49 am Sorry, OQ, I was trying to find more work for you when that's the last thing you need. What I was looking at was the inside of the windscreen and the square corner that would now be awkward to work on! I thought that was what you referred to, or I wouldn't have said anything.

You're making good progress, keep at it and don't let outside influences sandbag you.
Thank you! I appreciate your questioning what I am doing...sometimes I question that myself! :doh:

Most of that cleat will be covered by the dash panel and there will be a cap across the windscreen to strengthen it more. I can see the windscreen being used to pull up from the seats or leaning over to access the bow lockers.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Nov 27, 2022 4:57 am
by OrangeQuest
Thanks, Jaysen for the edit. I saw what I did but didn't know how to fix it. Sorry. :oops:

The rain and colder temps are gone for a few days, see what I can get done in that time. As I think about what is left the list seems to be getting longer. Maybe I need to stop thinking and get doing! :roll:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Nov 27, 2022 6:13 pm
by OrangeQuest
With a forecast of temps getting in the 70s today I started grinding away on my build at 4 this morning. The epoxy glue was hard enough to pull off, what seemed like hundreds of clamps, to start with flush route bit on the gunnel cap edges. Then sanded the sides smooth. Next was a round over on both edges. Lots more sanding from 80 grit down to 220. By daylight, still a bit cool for my Houstonian blood, I push the boat outside to do the other side of the gunnel edges. Lots of wood chips and sawdust. Both sides done, I started on the dash.
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Final test fitting of the dash and by noon I was applying neat epoxy to coat the wood. 3:00 PM the dash is glued in and clamped up.
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You can see the sun is warming things up nicely, but now the waiting game. Few parts due in on Monday, should also start priming everything that doesn't have paint on it yet. Tuesday a forecast of rain, EVA foam will be delivered, and temps start to drop again. It has been taking 48 hours for the slow hardener to get hard in low 60s. Not much left to glue up!!
It is now beer o'clock. :)

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Nov 28, 2022 9:35 am
by Dougster
That's a dang long day, don't think I could do it. Must be satisfying though.

Dougster

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Nov 28, 2022 7:51 pm
by OrangeQuest
Dougster wrote: Mon Nov 28, 2022 9:35 am That's a dang long day, don't think I could do it. Must be satisfying though.

Dougster
I love going out and just rubbing my hand on those gunnels. They are smooth, very smooth!

Temps here in Houston are a rollercoaster. Highs tomorrow in the high 70s -low 80s then 40s that evening. Have slow hardener curing, which the temp was 76 when applied and pushed back in the warehouse. Should be cured before the cold weather hits.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Nov 30, 2022 5:17 pm
by OrangeQuest
Started my morning at 3:00 this morning check weather forecast. Temps were still dropping and was about 53 or so with forecast of a high of only 60 and overcast. So I figured no epoxy work today. Foam came in and I started to plan on installing the gaskets for all my hatches. The goal is only to keep the hatches from rattling, not form a waterproof seal. With the foam I ordered a got a sheet of "skin" foam. It's only 1/16" thick with a skin on one side. Daylight rolled around and push the boat outside to move a table under my lights to start cutting the gaskets.

I laid the foam out and put my hatch templates on top of them, cut the outline. Used marine grade adhesive to glue the foam into the hatch opens and used the templates to press them down with weights. About noon everything was dry enough to trim them up. Razor knife and just followed the inside lip as a guide. BTW, became a cloudless sky with a high of 70 deg.
But already had the gasket project going so wanted to finish it up.

Started sanding and prepping the dash for primer coats. Had to drill out the oversized, then filled holes to mount the GPS/fish finder and stereo, switch panels and so on. I used everything as templates to make sure the holes were in the exact right spots. I then decided to just leave it all overnight and take a few pictures. If this thing doesn't float, then maybe the only chance of pictures I get!
Port side view:
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Starboard view:
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Had to get a picture with the cowling in it:
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No cowling and a little closer:
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And closer!:
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The money shot! 8) The switch panels do not have screws holding them in so a little droppy.
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I was to tired to take it all out and pack it all back away so that will be the pre-dawn thing I'll do while having my morning tea.

EDIT: Also took a little time to line up and drill holes to mount the docking cleats. Nothing but a little more bling in SS and folding.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Dec 01, 2022 10:01 am
by pee wee
Wow, you've got the steam up and you're rolling pretty good! :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Dec 01, 2022 10:13 am
by Jeff
Nice progress OQ!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Dec 01, 2022 11:38 am
by OrangeQuest
pee wee wrote: Thu Dec 01, 2022 10:01 am Wow, you've got the steam up and you're rolling pretty good! :D
Wanting to get an appointment for a Game Warden inspection for registration this year if at all possible. Just hoping for the appointment set. But these roller coaster temps are driving me crazy.
Jeff wrote: Thu Dec 01, 2022 10:13 am Nice progress OQ!!! Jeff
Thanks Jeff.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Dec 01, 2022 9:09 pm
by mhd
Boat is really coming together now - looking good!!!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Dec 02, 2022 6:00 am
by OrangeQuest
mhd wrote: Thu Dec 01, 2022 9:09 pm Boat is really coming together now - looking good!!!
Thank You! :D

EDIT: warming weather in the forecast so things should start moving along quickly!!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Dec 02, 2022 7:44 pm
by OrangeQuest
I am very close to the part where I get to enjoy the labor of sanding! The epoxy putty/glue I laid down yesterday was still getting hard all day today. So, I started to prep (sanding) for paint in the areas that need touching up and still need painting. I am block sanding and starting out with 80 grits. I sand till I get tired of looking at the same area so start in another area. Compare it to the first area and go back then. If I kind of like it I then use another block sander with 120 grits, then if I like the feel, I go to a 220 grit. I don't know if my fingers get numb from holding the blocks, they get full of fine sawdust, or the area starts feeling really smooth. But seems that walking away and coming makes me want to do more.

All the upper areas, the forward deck, wind blocker, gunnels, aft surfaces and so on, are getting the fine sanding treatment. It is getting close to no more pictures till the primer starts to go on. Which that could be as early as Sunday. Sanding is boring and so are pictures of the progress, only the person sanding sees/feels the difference.

Added a little top piece and trimmed it down on the starboard side and getting it rounded over. Will be fairly easy to add a small plexiglass windscreen to the top of this.
Image
I just didn't like how boxy it looked. Starting to like the way it looks. Has an old style to it.
Image

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Dec 03, 2022 10:37 am
by Dougster
Gonna be a terrific, one of a kind boat. Careful not to get it so pretty you hate to get it all wet and muddy!

Dougster

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Dec 03, 2022 6:57 pm
by OrangeQuest
Dougster wrote: Sat Dec 03, 2022 10:37 am Gonna be a terrific, one of a kind boat. Careful not to get it so pretty you hate to get it all wet and muddy!

Dougster
Thank you Dougster!
I keep telling myself the same thing, one of a kind!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Dec 03, 2022 9:54 pm
by Fuzz
Great thing about building it yourself no need to look like every other production boat. :wink:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Dec 07, 2022 6:18 pm
by OrangeQuest
The temps have really been kind to me with near record highs. So epoxy work has been taking only 24 hours and very happy.

Sanding the outer top sides and started to prime. This is just first coat and will sand tomorrow.
Image
Image


Still not done with the dash area but added a coat of primer to see where I still need to sand. And I like it better in one color. The interior sides were primed with two part epoxy primer and will get one cover coat. They were sanded of all rough edges so don't need a smooth surface there. Need a 2-foot shorter steering cable... it's on the list.
Image

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Dec 12, 2022 3:29 pm
by OrangeQuest
Got a little work done between thundershowers. I glued in this deck that will hold a pair of group 24 batteries. Still need to mount the battery trays/hold downs. But first it will get a better sanding and another coat of neat epoxy to make sure it is all sealed up. Its fairing compound so should sand easy enough, right? There will be a small panel between the two batteries for the main breaker and the battery switch.
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Have one more day before a front hits and drops the temps in the low 60s. Brrrr, our winters are brutal!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Dec 17, 2022 7:43 am
by OrangeQuest
Not the best paint job but I am done with painting the top side!

Image
Image
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Since I need to wait 7 days for the paint to finish curing, I will be installing the electrics and hardware.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Dec 17, 2022 9:15 am
by Dougster
Looks terrific from here---big milestone. Installs will be fun. That boat wants to get wet.

Dougster

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Dec 17, 2022 10:38 am
by pee wee
Not only is it Done, but it looks Good! :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Dec 17, 2022 12:36 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thanks guys! It is to cold for me to do much today. Cables and other electric stuff is coming in on Monday.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Dec 17, 2022 2:12 pm
by TomW1
That is one fine looking FS14 OrangeQuest, may you enjoy her as much as the time you have put them into her. If you need some help selecting a prop for that mighty fine Suzuki motor let me know.

Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Dec 17, 2022 5:25 pm
by OrangeQuest
TomW1 wrote: Sat Dec 17, 2022 2:12 pm That is one fine looking FS14 OrangeQuest, may you enjoy her as much as the time you have put them into her. If you need some help selecting a prop for that mighty fine Suzuki motor let me know.

Tom
Thanks Tom. I want to see if she will float first. 8O But I want to try and get two props. Hopefully the stock aluminum will be good for power, faster acceleration but not a lot of the top end, ok if the RPMs are a little too high, in other words. Then a SS prop for fuel economy and just cruising. But she is built heavy.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Dec 17, 2022 5:57 pm
by jbo_c
That’s a nice blue. What is it? Sorry if it’s earlier in the thread. Haven’t really been checking this build regularly.

Nice job on the windscreen(?).

Jbo

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Dec 17, 2022 6:23 pm
by OrangeQuest
jbo_c wrote: Sat Dec 17, 2022 5:57 pm That’s a nice blue. What is it? Sorry if it’s earlier in the thread. Haven’t really been checking this build regularly.

Nice job on the windscreen(?).

Jbo
It is a quart of semigloss white with about an ounce of bikini blue by Pettit. I wanted Blue Ice but no one had it.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Dec 20, 2022 5:12 am
by glossieblack
Congratulations OQ, she's a 14' beauty. :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Dec 23, 2022 10:21 am
by OrangeQuest
glossieblack wrote: Tue Dec 20, 2022 5:12 am Congratulations OQ, she's a 14' beauty. :D
Thank you, Glossie. Nice to see you back on the forum. I read you are ready for another adventure, enjoy and stay safe.

Just before the Siberian blizzard hit us, I manage to mount all the deck hardware, speakers and run the speaker wires, transducer wire and VHF ant wire to the dash area. Not much to look at just yet that hasn't already been seen. Need to touch up a few places of all 3 colors from bumping into things getting it in and out of the warehouse and over sanding a few areas.
Next few days will be bundled up, drinking hot tea and playing keyboard warrior. May even watch a few Netflix movies that have come out. Feels like lockdown all over again.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Dec 26, 2022 5:02 pm
by OrangeQuest
So After turning the warehouse water back on there was a pin hole in an older iron pipe. Home Depot web site showing they had 6 of the one piece I needed to fix it, so ordered for pick up over the web. They canceled the order a few minutes later. Then ordered a different piece that was a lot cheaper they should have 15 pieces of, also canceled right after I ordered it but these were spares so no biggie. You would think Home Depot would have a better inventory system than not updating as things were sold.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Dec 30, 2022 6:27 pm
by OrangeQuest
If there was ever any doubt, this boat does not have a casing deck.
Image

Finished with the stainless-steel attachments. I still need to get a SS clam shell cleat for the aft anchor line.

Wait, if it's not in the water can it be called the anchor line and not rode? Or is it an anchor rode once it is attached to the anchor?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Dec 30, 2022 9:30 pm
by cape man
Put it in the water and I'll answer the question! Close...very close...

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jan 02, 2023 6:02 pm
by OrangeQuest
I wish that when it comes to switch panels you could order the metal panel, pre-drilled and holes cut for switches, then add the breakers and switches you want to wire them DIY style. My pre-wired bilge switches have the breakers on the ground side. Which you have to have the same gauge wire for both positive and negative all the way to the switches...yeah, I re-wired that. Now I can use 16-ga to power the LED lights and ground the pumps to the main buss. Same with my pre-wired switch panel. Their ground is just to ground the lights on each switch when it is on. Doesn't need 10-ga for those little, tiny bulbs. Since the switch panel and the bilge pump switches are so close, they will share a single run ground.

Ordered some blue LED bulbs for the gauges to match the blue LED lights in the wells. Also waiting on some custom made cables for the battery to breaker, to main switch for each battery and grounds to the main buss. Also ordered a small terminal block to connect all the positive runs and not have 5 or 6 terminals at the main switch. Still need to make the gauge lights wiring harness and looking at getting a remote dimmer for the dash lights just in case they are too bright.
Image

Not sure how much it needs to be completed to have the game warden inspection but would like to get that done so I can start breaking in the motor. Think it needs the seats mounted for that inspection? I kind of like laying on my back doing all the wiring without squeezing through them. :roll:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jan 03, 2023 10:46 am
by Dougster
Really doubt that you need the seats in. Here in Blanco the warden was mostly just checking that it was really a home build and not a stolen boat I think.

Dougster

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jan 03, 2023 11:53 am
by OrangeQuest
Dougster wrote: Tue Jan 03, 2023 10:46 am Really doubt that you need the seats in. Here in Blanco the warden was mostly just checking that it was really a home build and not a stolen boat I think.

Dougster
That is what I am hoping. I can barrow the safety gear from our canoe and show that I have those but to hold the seats mounts in I have to glue cleats to the floor.

But I came up with a solution. I started cutting and trimming the EVA foam I got for floor covering. It will be nice to lay on to wire in my electrics. Then I will lay the seat mounts on top of the flooring and just cut around them. I will also leave the foam under the passenger mount to pad the fuel tank, just cutting the foam out for the cleats.
The EVA foam was the cheapest I could get and isn't too dense. If I like it, I will replace it with the more expensive and denser stuff that will hold up better. Right now, I love walking on it.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jan 03, 2023 11:59 am
by Jeff
Nice OQ!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jan 03, 2023 10:10 pm
by joe2700
OrangeQuest wrote: Mon Jan 02, 2023 6:02 pm I wish that when it comes to switch panels you could order the metal panel, pre-drilled and holes cut for switches, then add the breakers and switches you want to wire them DIY style. My pre-wired bilge switches have the breakers on the ground side. Which you have to have the same gauge wire for both positive and negative all the way to the switches...yeah, I re-wired that. Now I can use 16-ga to power the LED lights and ground the pumps to the main buss. Same with my pre-wired switch panel. Their ground is just to ground the lights on each switch when it is on. Doesn't need 10-ga for those little, tiny bulbs. Since the switch panel and the bilge pump switches are so close, they will share a single run ground.
New wire marine will make you a panel like that. They will also make you one with components or fully wired, but if you want just the holes cut they will do that.
https://newwiremarine.com/custom-marine-switch-panels/

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jan 04, 2023 7:45 am
by OrangeQuest
joe2700 wrote: Tue Jan 03, 2023 10:10 pm New wire marine will make you a panel like that. They will also make you one with components or fully wired, but if you want just the holes cut they will do that.
https://newwiremarine.com/custom-marine-switch-panels/
Yes, I looked into that. The cost of their panel with switches and breakers was out of my budget. I like the price of their circuit breakers, but the cost of their switches is too much. Even though I like that the switches come with function printed on them and they light up. Don't really like the shape of them.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jan 09, 2023 6:09 pm
by OrangeQuest
Well, after I stopped "all production" on getting the boat finished, I measured and checked the lengths, the ring connectors and the number of cables I still need to go from each battery to each main breaker, from breakers to the main power switch, from power switch to the terminal block. I ordered all custom-made cables and coming in somewhere around Thursday. The correct size ring connector ends came in today with more of the correct gauge wires. Also got my blue LED bulbs in to put in the 3 gauges. White LED bulbs for the anchor light also is here.

Had to order heat shrink connector ends and butt connectors from Wal-Mart and they were coming from 3 different places, all free shipping, one is directly from China via USPS then to UPS and I think back to USPS :doh: . For the price I paid for 25 connectors the local suppliers wanted the same price for 5 and they didn't have them in stock. Had to get more wire from a difference source also due to my normal source was out. Anyway.

I am excited to get back to work on my dash but don't know if I want to pull an all nighter to get it wired up or wait till, I am not so tired, and body not quit as sore. The answer would be very easy if I was 20 years younger. I did pop all the LED bulbs in, and I love the slight blue glow inside the gauges. I may need to find a dark place and see how they look in total darkness. Can't wait to post pictures of what the dash looks like in the dark...on the water!

My Game Warden inspection is scheduled for Jan 26th. Hope it isn't raining.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jan 13, 2023 2:51 pm
by OrangeQuest
After pouring over the wiring schematics of my motor, I was thinking I had it figured out. The schematics show the wiring with different options and the harness has the wiring for them all. Like a Suzuki tach with warning lights, trim angle meter and a multi gauge would all just plug right into the wiring harness because the plugs are there. The image of a tach shows the factory tach and wiring on the top side a non-factory tach, two different connections. But doesn't say it, just have to "understand" which wiring you need to use. It started as just a theory but only way was to cut the bullet connectors off and add ring connectors. With fingers crossed I turned the key on, tach gauge needle zeroed out and the hour meter was visible. Hit the start button and tach went to 900 rpm then settled at 800 rpms. What a relief when it worked and no smoke. Because there were also another "key on" wire right there in the harness I used it to connect my analog voltmeter too, which worked great at showing the charging system kicking in. I now have 2 small digital meters reading off both batteries so even if I am only using one I can see the state of them both without having to use the main power switch.

Only a few more things before it will be a completed boat and after the registration process is over it will be splashed on the same day!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jan 14, 2023 9:24 am
by Dougster
Congratulations on figuring all that out. Sounds like the 26th will be a very big day!

Dougster

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jan 24, 2023 3:08 pm
by OrangeQuest
Other than the fuel line cut to the correct length and a strap to hold the fuel tank in place, the build is completed.

Image
Just glued the seat boxes in.

Image
Trip to TPWD to get her HIN and registered.

The End!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jan 24, 2023 5:20 pm
by mhd
CONGRATULATIONS! Now just that trip to the water to put an even bigger smile on your face! Well done. Only you know the amount of hard work that went into making the boat. Looking forward to seeing the splash photos of her in the water!

Mick

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jan 24, 2023 8:05 pm
by Dan_Smullen
Congrats! Enjoy the splash!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Jan 24, 2023 11:41 pm
by TomW1
OQ congrats now for the 26th right? Good luck and best wishes. You have built a beautiful boat. Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Jan 25, 2023 4:25 am
by OrangeQuest
Thank you all.

It has been a fun adventure and it couldn't have happened without the support and encouragement of this group. Time seems to be slowing down, like waiting for epoxy to cure, for the inspect day to come.

Still have a few odds and ends to buy for the boat, like the rod holders and safety equipment, but will be using the canoe's gear for now.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jan 27, 2023 6:45 pm
by OrangeQuest
She is legal to be on the water and she loves it!

I was expecting her to be a little deeper in the water so a little surprised at how she was setting. I figured she would be a little bow heavy, but I don't see it here. The lake was a little rough with mild chop and a few wind blown waves. She is very light on the throttle and breaking in the motor. Still have a little more than an hour at 3000 rpms, then can bump it to 4000 for another hour.
Image

Riding solo I didn't get a chance to play/setup the GPS/FF and didn't want to take my eyes off the water due to a lot of water is coming down the bayou and river. You can tell by the brown water that is normally tea colored. All that water brings logs and other things that go bump on the lower unit.

It was a little cold for me (59 deg) to just putter back and forth today so called it an early adventure. I am very happy at how she handles so far. When I can get a navigator/photographer, more pictures to come. BTW. Ana Marie still attracted a few admirers and asked me a few questions. One was a fellow builder of a 14 foot skiff from BBC. The picture he showed me looked like the SK14.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jan 27, 2023 7:10 pm
by mhd
:-D :D :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Jan 27, 2023 9:53 pm
by Fuzz
So I would say you had a great day today! Congratulations I know today has been a long time coming. It is always a bit of a nervous time when your baby first hits the water.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jan 28, 2023 12:56 am
by TomW1
What a great day for you, boat looks great. :D Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jan 28, 2023 6:56 am
by OrangeQuest
Fuzz wrote: Fri Jan 27, 2023 9:53 pm So I would say you had a great day today! Congratulations I know today has been a long time coming. It is always a bit of a nervous time when your baby first hits the water.
Yes! Yes it was. I had hundreds of things going through my head.
No place to tie the boat up so I just pushed off. Forgot to plug the lanyard back in for the emergency stop switch so wouldn't start when I first got in. Very embarrassing :oops: as I drifted over to a man's fishing lines off the dock. All the docks were fenced off due to storm damage so no place to tie off to get in and out. Launching and recovery was a little tricky and a few fishermen held the boat off the ramp as I moved my trailer. Had to look for any leaks as I was idling into open water. Lucky there was none.

Was wanting to go again today but the forecast of no rain till evening changed to waking up to a drizzle and will continue all day. Then bad weather for a week or two. Spending that time on learning the GPS/FF settings. It's a thick book on all the things it can do.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jan 28, 2023 8:00 am
by cape man
What a day! Congrats!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jan 28, 2023 10:18 am
by Dougster
Terrific job. Re the kill switch: been there, done it and worse. It would be great if you could bring her to the Port A boat show for builders next spring. Lotsa different builds and good company there. Looking forward to more pics and first fish.

Dougster

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jan 28, 2023 10:28 am
by pee wee
What a happy day this is for you, and those of us rooting for you! You did a great job on her, looking forward to your continued stories of getting things sorted and your adventures on the near horizons. Congratulations!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jan 28, 2023 10:40 am
by Jaysen
Congrats!

Same thing on the kill switch in a buddy’s boat. Except we were 13mi off shore. And called tow boat. Tow show up, ties off, looks at console and says “did y’all try plugging the kill switch back in?”

That was a quiet ride back.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jan 28, 2023 2:12 pm
by VT_Jeff
HUGE congrats Ken. Thats a fine looking skiff, looks very fishy!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jan 28, 2023 2:55 pm
by Fuzz
Jaysen wrote: Sat Jan 28, 2023 10:40 am Congrats!

Same thing on the kill switch in a buddy’s boat. Except we were 13mi off shore. And called tow boat. Tow show up, ties off, looks at console and says “did y’all try plugging the kill switch back in?”

That was a quiet ride back.
Gee I wonder if that ever comes up during a beer drinking session :lol:

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jan 28, 2023 8:49 pm
by OrangeQuest
Again, thank you all for the kind words, unlimited support and advice over the years to help me get to this point. It is very exciting time just getting the little skiff through the sea trails and breaking the motor and the helmsman in. This is by no means the first boat I have been at the helm on, but it is the nimblest with a motor so I have been light on the steering and throttle.

One more blooper I just remembered: As I was throttling up the first time to the 3000-rpm mark, I noticed spray coming off port aft side. It took me a second or two to realize there was a fender still hanging over the side. It wasn't a big deal but those few seconds, a few weird thoughts were going through my head. 8O

Till I get comfortable with the limits of the boat, there will soon be other mis-steps along the way.

One younger guy at the TPWD getting his boat inspected, stated it was a nice-looking boat but was wondering "what that thing is on top of it?" I told him I wonder what to call it too, maybe splash shield?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Jan 28, 2023 10:56 pm
by BarraMan
One younger guy at the TPWD getting his boat inspected, stated it was a nice-looking boat but was wondering "what that thing is on top of it?" I told him I wonder what to call it too, maybe splash shield?
Downunder, we would call it a "wavebreaker"! :D

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Jan 29, 2023 5:03 am
by OrangeQuest
BarraMan wrote: Sat Jan 28, 2023 10:56 pm
One younger guy at the TPWD getting his boat inspected, stated it was a nice-looking boat but was wondering "what that thing is on top of it?" I told him I wonder what to call it too, maybe splash shield?
Downunder, we would call it a "wavebreaker"! :D
I hope I never need to test that! 8O

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jan 30, 2023 11:04 am
by Bogieman
A BIG CONGRATULATIONS OQ! She looks great in the water too.

Bogie

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jan 30, 2023 11:13 am
by OrangeQuest
Bogieman wrote: Mon Jan 30, 2023 11:04 am A BIG CONGRATULATIONS OQ! She looks great in the water too.

Bogie
Thank you Boogie!
Hoping to get more pictures this weekend. Our weather has not been helpful and can't trust the forecasts right now. But I will have two assistances so it should be a little easier to check the boat out better and finish the break in.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Jan 30, 2023 11:26 am
by Jeff
Congrats OQ!!! She looks great!!! Jeff

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Feb 02, 2023 12:53 pm
by Jmk2000
Awesome looking boat OQ, question for you? What is the deck done in. Is it some sort of foam padding?
Josh

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Feb 02, 2023 4:06 pm
by OrangeQuest
Thanks! The flooring is EVA foam. I stumbled on it when looking for LED bulbs on Walmart website. I like the color combination. It is self-adhesive, was easy to cut to size and install. Only time will tell how long it will last. When our weather here warms up I am going to run a bead of white marine sealant around the edges to keep water from getting under it.

It was about the same price as the EVA form I got from a foam company, but I ordered the softest density/cheapest. It was to spongy to cut easy. Razor knife would dull every few inches and start snagging. It was white and dirt showed up on it way to easy. I will order some more to make a pad to cover the rear hatches for sunbathing passengers.

EDIT: This is the flooring from Walmart.
https://www.walmart.com/ip/Ethedeal-Moi ... /931169206

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Feb 05, 2023 8:57 am
by OrangeQuest
Today I resume the sea trails of the Ana Marie. The weather will be considerably warmer so I should stay on the lake a lot long and get the first 2 hours of break in completed. Then I can proceed to 4000 rpm trials for another hour.
The last few days have been warming up and sunnier so she has been basking in the sun and I once again tested her abilities to clear a flooded bilge, playing with the pumps.. Which is running the garden hose in the cockpit till a bilge pump kicks in. Since she uses an aux and a main bilge pump, she can clear a flooded bilge quickly. The aux pump is a small 500-GPH pump that is just to clear anything that comes into the boat, it does work nicely but water from the cockpit and front lockers goes through a small, .5 ID hose from the very bottom of the main bilge. If the water level in the main bilge gets to high then the main pump, 900-GPH pump kicks in and a overflow hose of .75 ID will drain more water to the aux bilge so both pumps will work together to clear unwanted water.

The little aux pump was kicking in first, with a smaller stream of water out it's discharge. But as more water came into the main bilge the bigger pump kicks in and its stream is noticeable larger and with more force. The aux will pump till the float switch drops enough to shut it down. The main pump is on a timer and will pump even after the float level should turn it off. Which if the main pump float detects more water the timer resets. These tests were done with the boat, on the trailer, at different angles to see how well water was cleared. PASSED!

Then I tested the livewell pump and to see how well it works. Fill the 5-gallon baitwell up using the pump and sucking water from the livewell. It is an 800-GPH pump and when in the water it fills the wells from seawater, so this method is the same as if the boat was in the water. I am using a 1.25 ID hose for overflow. The bait well never spilled over into the boat, but all water would drain as intended.

The overflow drain for the livewell, is higher than the overflow for the baitwell and the discharge is lower than the baitwell, so all overflow should drain out of the boat. But when tested the livewell, it would drain both into the baitwell, expected, and out the overflow discharge. What I can't figure out is the livewell continued to fill to the point of overflowing into the boat. It's overflow drain is higher than the baitwells so it should drain the best.

Why is this happening?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Feb 05, 2023 2:26 pm
by cape man
Post a diagram of water in and out of both the bait well and live well.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Feb 05, 2023 7:27 pm
by TomW1
Theoretically speaking the drain is not large enough to prevent it from draining into the boat. Like cape man asks, give us some drawings showing the piping and size included. Outlets need to be at least doubled the inlet size for good flow or backup can occur, especially if using pumps. I did some checking and 800gph bait well/live well pumps have a 3/4" outlet, which would mean a minimum 1.5" outlet not 1.25" you are using, and I would go bigger if you have much of a run or any turns.

Toms

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Feb 06, 2023 10:46 am
by OrangeQuest
EDIT: My livewell pump is a 800-GPH pump. I put 900 to start and changed it. Sorry. My main bilge pump is the 900-GPH pump.


My livewell system is based off Flow-rite's V3 system. Back when I was designing my system, it tells you which fitting to buy and size of the fittings. My plumping for supply and return are .75" ID and 100% Flow-rite everything. The first picture is the basic system without the overflow. On another screen they show the fittings and that it only costs $130.00 bucks. :lol: That is not even close when you start to add quick connect male, female connectors, clamps, hoses and tees. They also show what is needed for the overflow system. They use a standpipe, and I used a screened fitting in the top side of my wells. Less things to get broken off in a livewell and slot reds flopping around.
Image

My system uses two wells, a livewell and a baitwell, but only one V3 valve and pump. I used serviceable BANJO brand .75" ID ball valves to control which well gets water and which well the return comes from. By partly opening the valves, I can supply water to both wells at the same time and keep them topped off too. To aerate the water, I used venturi style discharge nozzles that bring fresh air from outside the wells. Which they increase the flow velocity but decrease the flow rate. Both wells use all the same Flow-rite parts. And Flow-rite recommends a 800-GPH pump to get best results from the venturi style discharge nozzles, which I am also using.

Since the livewell (15gallon tank) is in the center of the hull, it sets deeper than the livewell (5gal) but the livewell overflow screen is slightly higher than the overflow screen of the bait well. Water exits the livewell (overflow) goes toward a tee that is connected also to the bait well overflow. Then angles downward to the hull discharge fitting.
Image
Sorry for the very rough drawing.

In theory, if the lower discharge screen of the smaller tank can discharge enough water to keep the smaller tank from overflowing into the boat the larger tank would work the same if not better. The drain hose distance from the bigger tank to the tee is 13". Since my testing, I have changed the angle of the overflow elbow from the baitwell, more downwards slightly. Increasing the downward angle of the hose coming from the livewell overflow hose. But this decreased the angle of the final overflow hose. Which the final hose is less than 4" in length from the tee to the discharge fitting. No bends and not curves, all straight shots. 1-1/8" hose is very hard to bend anyways, this are a pain to put on and take off. But I think this slight adjustment may fix the issue or cause nether not to drain correctly.

During my tests while designing my tanks, I did a few tests on overflow drain sizes and what would work best and based off this type of a chart.
Image

In a tank that was being filled with just the 800-GPH pump, I used a 1" hole to drain water out of the side of the tank and it was enough to stop the tank from filling up. So, my 1-1/8" ID drains should be more than enough to prevent tank overflow. I think my issue is not enough downward angle for the water to travel down the hose effectively from the bigger tank. To small of an overflow drain would mean both tanks would not drain correctly and not just one.

More testing today.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Feb 06, 2023 1:25 pm
by OrangeQuest
Same results today. The angle change did not stop the large well from overflowing into the boat. This is strange.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Feb 06, 2023 3:12 pm
by cape man
Before I answer...the overflow for the live well goes to the bait well and is slightly higher than the over flow for the bait well. There is not a separate overflow out the boat from the live well. The overflow out of the bait well goes back to the pump if you want to recirculate water, or out of the boat if you want to have flow through.

Does the live well start overflowing into the boat when the bait well is full?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Mon Feb 06, 2023 11:37 pm
by TomW1
OrangeQuest since you have screens on the overflows you must increase the size of the out flow. Also, you have an L at the Live well tank and another at the bait well tank both of these will restrict water flow from the live well tank. Plus, the screen you have on the live bait tank restricts water flow. This is why you have water flowing out of the live well tank. you need a bigger hose or one going directly to the oval drain hole and not connecting to the bait well.

Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Feb 07, 2023 6:57 am
by OrangeQuest
cape man wrote: Mon Feb 06, 2023 3:12 pm Before I answer...the overflow for the live well goes to the bait well and is slightly higher than the overflow for the bait well. There is not a separate overflow out the boat from the live well. The overflow out of the bait well goes back to the pump if you want to recirculate water, or out of the boat if you want to have flow through.

Does the live well start overflowing into the boat when the bait well is full?
Thank you for putting some thought into my problem.
Both wells share the same outflow fitting back to sea water. Lowering the elbow coming out of the baitwell lowered the tee they both share and the livewell no longer drains into the baitwell, it just doesn't drain enough to keep the livewell from overflowing into the boat. I tried taking a picture, but it is such a cramped area, don't think it will help and can't really tell the angle very well.

The only difference between the two, is the drain hose from the livewell to the exit fitting is around 20" total and the baitwell hose is about 8". They both share the same number of 90 deg turns (elbows or the tee). My theory is the length the livewell travels and there is not enough drop to drain enough water from the livewell.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Feb 07, 2023 7:50 am
by OrangeQuest
TomW1 wrote: Mon Feb 06, 2023 11:37 pm OrangeQuest since you have screens on the overflows you must increase the size of the out flow. Also, you have an L at the Live well tank and another at the bait well tank both of these will restrict water flow from the live well tank. Plus, the screen you have on the live bait tank restricts water flow. This is why you have water flowing out of the live well tank. you need a bigger hose or one going directly to the oval drain hole and not connecting to the baitwell.

Tom
Thank you, Tom, for your thoughts.

The screens are large enough to not restrict water flow till trash or dead bait block them enough to restrict them. They are part of the Flow-rite system. They both share the same number of screens and elbows (90deg turns). I think the restriction is the length of hose from the livewell is much longer, 20" verses about 8," and there just isn't enough downward angle for it to drain the overflow correctly. I don't want to have to drill a bigger hole or patch the hole I have and drill a new one deeper down the transom. I think I have to live with this blunder. :?

This part of the "sea trails" can be done in the parking lot "lab" in a controlled environment so rocking of the boat is ruled out as cause for water spilling out of the wells. Please keep in mind I can divide the flowrate between both wells as well as the return. In theory, when wanting to keep fish alive, I can fill the large tank up and then maintain its level by dividing the flow between the smaller tank that can overflow correctly. Still need to test this. Hope that makes sense. I would like to know the limits of everything on the little boat before it bites me on the water.

I can just imagine, anchored up somewhere at night, and the bilge pump kicks in. First thing I am going to think is the boat is sinking! But all it is, is the livewell overflowing into the boat. :lol: :lol: Oh the adventures we are going to have.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Feb 07, 2023 10:11 am
by cape man
The drain for the live well is working against the head pressure of the baitwell. If you can the simplest thing would be to reduce the flow to the live well and see if it will drain. You'll figure it out!

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Feb 07, 2023 2:08 pm
by TomW1
I agree with cape man and always use fresh water, not recirculated water for the live well with the reduced flow. One thing I don't see is a drain for either the bait or live wells to empty them when you are done using them. Are they at the bottom of the tank?

Tom

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Tue Feb 07, 2023 3:38 pm
by OrangeQuest
TomW1 wrote: Tue Feb 07, 2023 2:08 pm I agree with cape man and always use fresh water, not recirculated water for the live well with the reduced flow. One thing I don't see is a drain for either the bait or live wells to empty them when you are done using them. Are they at the bottom of the tank?
Tom
Yes, you turn the actuator to "DRAIN" and turn the pump off. All water then drains out the pickup. Just select which well you want to drain. Both drains are higher than the pickup so everything will empty. And that can be done while the boat is still in the water, moving or not. The pump has to be on for the tanks to fill up. To fill the wells, flip actuator to "AUTO" and it fills up the well as long as the pickup is under the waterline. When the boat starts moving, doesn't take to much speed, the pickup comes above the waterline and the system will recirculate the water in the well. But air is sucked through the system, so the water becomes even more aeriated than with the venturi nozzles alone. The "RECIRCULATE" seals off outside water so you can keep trash from the wells or take the boat out of the water and keep the live bait and/or fish alive. The venturi nozzles pull air from outside the wells, mixes with the discharge flow, so adds oxygen back to the wells. This method works well to keep more bait/fish in less water.

I spent a lot of time researching, measuring and testing the system before it was even installed. Even had to figure how deep the boat needed to sit for the pump to self-prime, but no water coming into the wells without the pump running. The one part I spent no time on was the overflow drain. Just needed to know what size hole and the water would just fall out. Again, my blunder.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Fri Aug 04, 2023 9:02 am
by OrangeQuest
So the FS14 skiff known as Ana Marie is in full service and used for "work" and non-work adventures. Yesterday, I decided to do a below sole inspection and found the forward access to below the sole, the foam was wet. pushed my finger down in the foam and got water. It did not come from the access port. So dug the foam out to find the forward locker drain leaking at where it enters the first frame. digging the foam out was annoying due to it is where the wiring comes out of the chase tubes for the aft wiring. The chase tubes are all sealed up and where I had to extend the wiring to the dash connections are all sealed up so ok for water to be there. But it has nowhere to drain. The drain tube itself is about 3" off the bottom of the hull to allow water to drain from the forward lockers even if the boat is level, so the drain is pitched down.

access to where the drain tube enters the frame is impossible to access without cutting the sole out. or cutting the forward frame out. I think I can cut the drain tube at the access port, pull out the drain tube forward section, update how it mounts, add a ton of sealer around the end and stick it back in the frame. How annoying and just as you think the build is finished.

pics to follow.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Aug 05, 2023 9:31 am
by OrangeQuest
Closer inspection, I cut the forward section of the drain tube out and can see two places the sealer did not seal completely around the drain tube. I built a small deck that raises where the batteries are mounted and looks like my best option to access were the drain starts at. But would still be working from the back side of it.

What sucks is the drain is only for the two forward lockers that hold the anchor line, bow line and stern lines on the starboard side and the 4 fenders on the port side. The locker hatches seal well enough to prevent most water from ever getting past them. But I take everything out, let the lines and fenders air out and then rinse the lockers clean of any debris and rinse any lake water out after each outing. One of the very first things installed before installing and gluing down the sole. And the drain was tested for leaks before putting the sole down. Time for a design change. The Ana Marie is dry docked for the time being.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sat Aug 05, 2023 9:58 am
by pee wee
That's got to be frustrating to have to not only repair, but possibly redesign the drain. Is there a way to drain the water onto the deck? In other words, no penetration of the sole needed?

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Sun Aug 06, 2023 11:20 am
by OrangeQuest
pee wee wrote: Sat Aug 05, 2023 9:58 am That's got to be frustrating to have to not only repair, but possibly redesign the drain. Is there a way to drain the water onto the deck? In other words, no penetration of the sole needed?

HMM? That is a good question! I even went to double check, if possible, sadly no. I put the drain below the sole and that makes the front lockers deeper than the sole anchor is just deep enough to hook the anchor where the shank is hanging down and just clears the bottom of the locker. Had to cut the first bottom out and make it deeper and smaller. Worked out cause stowing the anchor, line use in aft part of locker and the last thing is the anchor chain and anchor, so the chain holds the shank and keeps it from bang the side in rough seas.

But I think I have a plan that may work, and I will not have to do any cutting. But the plan keeps evolving in my head. And keep going over the physics of it. I can cut a thin section off a elbow or any 3/4" PVC fitting. shove the PVC through the final opening and through the drain opening in the bottom of the lockers I glue the fitting piece on to form a flange. Spin the pvc pipe and add silicone adhesive to the back side of the flange. Once the silicone goes all the way around the flange, connect the other end of the PVC pipe to the drainpipe at the inspection port. Let all cure for a few days. Water test again to confirm plan A worked. Plan B would be re-design forward lockers and drain to above sole. I hope plan B doesn't have to be used.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Wed Aug 09, 2023 9:03 pm
by OrangeQuest
Did not pass water test. Going to have to do plan B but with a little planning. I should have planned for an inspection port to access this drain opening.


We need a pinned topic thread on builder bloopers. I have a few.

Re: FS14- Bayou City Boat

Posted: Thu Aug 10, 2023 3:31 pm
by OrangeQuest
Plan A to seal the drain opening was laughable failure. Plan B never happened due to not wanting to remove all electrical connections, batteries, main breakers and the power selector sw. So I came up with plan C. And it seems to have worked. Cut out the floors of both forward lockers and then a small section of the wall that divided them.
this gave me a lot of easy access and not as much work so easy to repair.

Image

There is a drain hole in the frame, just can't see it to well. It's there.

Image

After the sealer dried and water tested. NO LEAKS!!!
The locker floors will stay out and just patch the dividing wall and just have a small drain opening for each locker. The wall will also be the strainer. Easy access and easy to unclog.

Ana Marie is hosting a lake party this Sunday. A farewell to all the employees that will be going back to school and me turning a year older.
The skiff will tow a big canoe with a few passengers and anchor up at the bulkhead in shallow water. Hope I get to take pics this time!