Boat Builder Central

Would I be better off using a single skeg on the bottom of an FL14, or multiple runners (3-5 runners)? I will be using the boat as a row boat mostly for float fishing in a small lake, but with a motor occasionally. If I go with the runners, what cross section, and should I fillet them along their wh...

Try and keep the epoxy in a heated area when you are not actually using it. This will make it easier to work with. They ususlly thicken up in cold temps.

Are your prices going to go up after the first of the year? I am going to be purchasing plans, plywood, glass and an epoxy kit for an FL14 in the spring, and wanted to know whether I should purchase it soon and sit on it or can I wait until March or April. It's cold up here in the winter and I have ...

What advantage is there with a 4:1 or 5:1 mix? It seems to me the higher thr ratio, the higher the ablility to get the proportions off. I liked the 1:1 because it was very easy to get the mix right. The E-poxy seems like it would work well at 2:1. Rick

I didn't mean to imply that generic or E-poxy was bad. I just meant generic as not big name brand. I have used an epoxy in the past that was no name from Clarkcraft, and it worked well for me(1:1 mix). But recently I spoke with someone building a larger boat and he said to use WEST or other name bra...

Does anyone know what the difference is between generic epoxy and WEST or System 3 epoxies. Obviously the price, but from a technical stand point, strength, flowability, ease of use etc. Is there really a difference? Has anyone had a bad experience with the E-poxy sold through this site? Thanks, Rick

It looks like Meranti/Okume is the choice for low maintenance and ease of use. I guess my next question would be, Meranti 6566 versus the A-B fir. Which would be better? I looked at pricing again, this time with the cheaper grade of Meranti and it is only $20-$25 more for the cheaper grade even with...

I appreciate the input. I would really like to use the okume or meranti, but all I can get economially in my area is the Fir. As Jacques ponted out, shipping a few pieces (6) almost doubles the cost. I am looking for a servicable boat for fishing on a small inland lake, and occasionally to chase duc...

The shipping costs of meranti or okoume plywood to the Buffalo NY area seems to be close to the price of the plywood itself. That being said, would I be better off using 1/4" A-B fir for the entire FL14 (bottom and sides)and glassing the whole boat inside and out. The cost of the glass and epxo...

Does anyone know where I can get marine plywood (okoume or meranti) in the Buffalo, New York area? I can find A-B Fir, but I heard there is problems with it checking. The plywood available on the net has shipping costs almost equal to the plywood costs.I am going to build a FL14. Thanks, Rick