Boat Builder Central - Builder Forums • A Cracker Built GF18- Finished 6/28/15

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Apr 23, 2013 7:31 pm

by Cracker Larry

Your apprentice looks right at home.

He has settled in well Joe

The smartest dog I've ever owned, we got real lucky on this guy considering he was a rescue dog. We finally figured out exactly what he was while watching the Westminster dog show. They had one just like him but not as good looking

. A Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, also called a Little River Duck Dog. Never even heard of one before now. Never heard of duck tolling either, but the dogs are bred to swim out into a lake and somehow attract the ducks to land, then they lead the ducks back to the shooters in the blind who blast them

I kid you not. See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova_Scoti ... _Retriever
He is swimming in the poll right now,

For some reason I thought the Grady White was done and gone already... Huh...

Ugh. I wish. Getting close though, should be finished by the weekend. It was one I should have passed on.

So what exactly is a tricked out GF18 gonna look like? Is this going to be a fishing machine?

Yes, a fishing machine, but also a family boat for tubing, skiing, and general use. The client wants it built turn key, with about every option you can think of. T-top and instrument box, leaning post, maybe a poling platform, ski pylon for sure, built in insulated bait well and cooler, full electronics, at least one trolling motor, discussing 2, and some other stuff. The cockpit sole is going to be made from recycled old growth cypress and the rub rails and maybe inwales will be ipe. We are making modifications to both the transom and bow deck arrangements. Add custom upholstery seating and a few other things.

Short answer, I don't know what it's going to look like, stay tuned, but it won't look like any you've seen yet

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Apr 23, 2013 8:32 pm

by Cracker Larry

Forgot to say that the shipping company called this afternoon and said the plywood is ready for pick up. That was fast

It just left Joel yesterday.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Apr 24, 2013 7:47 am

by cottontop

Sounds like a big challenge, be we are all rooting for you and anxious to see the finished product. Keep it going(I posted a question under your original OD thread.) John

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Apr 24, 2013 6:47 pm

by wegcagle

CL,

You need to rebuild that jig. It's too dang pretty. A table like that needs to be eaten off of, not victim to epoxy splashes

Gonna miss you this year, but we'll get to hang out again soon enough. I'm getting my butt worked off for the last few months, but the end of DC tour is fast approaching

Tell Dori I said hello, and that I'm gonna miss my fishing buddy.

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Apr 24, 2013 9:16 pm

by Cracker Larry

John, nothing but a thing

Question replied to in that thread.

Will, we had to cancel out on the meet too, so we'll be around. Let me know when you get settled and we'll go fishing here.

Just like Christmas

A table like that needs to be eaten off of, not victim to epoxy splashes

It looks even better covered in mahogany

Except I don't work this hard on Christmas

It was a lot easier loading the trailer with a fork lift than it was unloading it by man lift. I got it unloaded, sorted and stacked in order of use. Then made a rum drink. 22 sheets almost did me in

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Apr 24, 2013 9:45 pm

by Hope2float

CL cheers to the rum drink! Rum and boats go so well together.
Dave

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Apr 24, 2013 11:33 pm

by Cracker Larry

It takes a lot of rum to build a boat. Got to figure it into the budget

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Apr 25, 2013 2:52 pm

by MarkOrge

Absolutely correct CL. My wife asked about the Bud Light Lime cans in the garage, to which I refer to as "shop supplies - cost of production"

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Apr 25, 2013 7:05 pm

by Cracker Larry

Aluminum cans are bringing $0.68 a pound too, so it's like getting a rebate

Worked hard on the Grady today, didn't touch this one. Soon come.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Apr 27, 2013 12:22 pm

by gstanfield

This should be a fun build to watch coming together!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Apr 29, 2013 6:13 am

by callyb

As always, I look forward to your builds! I know she'll be a top quality boat. A very lucky owner to be!

BTW, I'll be sending a package to you and Dori tomorrow or the next day. Enjoy it when it gets there!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Apr 29, 2013 9:17 am

by Cracker Larry

Enjoy it when it gets there!

Knowing you, I'm sure we will

Thanks, whatever it is!

Going to start laying out the panels today after I get the GW delivered.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Apr 29, 2013 12:58 pm

by wadestep

Cracker Larry wrote: The cockpit sole is going to be made from recycled old growth cypress and the rub rails and maybe inwales will be ipe.

Wow - will it be finished bright? My dock is ipe, and I've messed around with some scrap. That stuff is sure tough, but HEAVY!!! My samples sink in salt water, even after they were kiln dried.

...looking forward to another build.
wade

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Apr 30, 2013 8:31 am

by bernd1

Larry,

you are a crazy man

......once a day we can read : "Hi folks today I is especially day - the start of my last build because I have now build all bateau boats".

Keep on building - I'm looking forward to this building thread !!!!!!!

Bye
Bernd

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Apr 30, 2013 9:11 am

by Cracker Larry

Larry,

you are a crazy man

You aren't the first person to say that, Bernd

Just ask my wife!

Wow - will it be finished bright?

Yes the sole and rub rail will both be bright finished. The cypress planks present a little challenge. The plan is to mill them to 1/4 or 3/8 thickness and laminate them over 1/4 plywood (out of the boat), then cut the laminated panels to fit.

That stuff is sure tough, but HEAVY!!! My samples sink in salt water, even after they were kiln dried.

Yes sir, it is tough and heavy

Aripeka Angler sent me a piece to do some testing with and I ruined a saw blade pretty quick. I can't rip it with my saws. Can barely cross cut it. The client wants 3/4 ipe, but there is no way that 3/4 X2" is going to make the bend, so we will have it milled for us in thin strips. To keep weight down it may be better to build up 2 layers of the rub rail with 1/4 ply, then use ipe for the final layer. Not sure how it's going to work out yet, but it will

Got the Grady White delivered successfully yesterday, another happy customer, then some major storms moved in again. 3 more inches of rain, more flooding, hail, more trees down, homes damaged all around, no power, what a mess. It really needs to quit this cycle

Still lucky here, no real damage, but the water is getting deeper every day. This was Saturday, but it's worse now.

I plan to start drawing frames and cutting parts today, if the creek doesn't rise much higher

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Apr 30, 2013 10:21 am

by topwater

Larry make sure you wipe the ipe down with acetone before you glue it to get all the oil off .
wipe it until the rag comes away clean .

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Apr 30, 2013 10:50 am

by Cracker Larry

Will do, John, thanks.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Apr 30, 2013 8:21 pm

by Cracker Larry

Marked and cut out the 3 layers of 1/2 for the transom, the bow transom and all of the permanent frames today. Started the day by changing the blades on all of my saws with Freud Diablo finishing blades, and they were long overdue for it! They cut real nice again

It's probably been 3 boats since we had any new blades.

First marking of new wood always needs documenting

So does the first cut.. this wood is almost too nice to cut. Measure twice

2 of the 3 transom layers...

Everything labeled and stacked out of the way...

Need to make 2 temporary molds also, but need a trip to Lowes for a sheet of MDF . Tomorrow is another day

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Apr 30, 2013 9:59 pm

by spotsy

It has begun... This is the third build I have tracked with you. I've never been less than impressed. I really can't wait to see this one come together.

I wish all of your OD18 build pictures would magically reappear since I am about to start one. That build thread was the Bible of boat building.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 01, 2013 8:19 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Spotsy. I've still got all the OD18 pictures, but it would take weeks to reload them. Let me know if you want to see anything specific and I'll dig it up.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 01, 2013 10:37 am

by AtTheBrink

Larry, feel free to send that rain over here. We sure could use it!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 01, 2013 12:06 pm

by Cracker Larry

Wish I could, Mike. Just got back from Lowes with supplies and the mosquitoes are so thick under my shed that by the time I unloaded a sheet of MDF I was covered

Had to run for the house! Dangit man! They've been bad all week, but now they are terrible

It's going to be a rough summer with all the standing water in the swamps.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 01, 2013 12:40 pm

by peter-curacao

Maybe this helps?

HOMEMADE MOSQUITO TRAP:
Items needed:
1 cup of water
1/4 cup of brown sugar
1 gram of yeast
1 2-liter bottle

HOW:
1. Cut the plastic bottle in half.
2. Mix brown sugar with hot water. Let cool. When cold, pour in the bottom half of the bottle.
3. Add the yeast. No need to mix. It creates carbon dioxide, which attracts mosquitoes.
4. Place the funnel part, upside down, into the other half of the bottle, taping them together if desired.
5. Wrap the bottle with something black, leaving the top uncovered, and place it outside in an area away from your normal gathering area. (Mosquitoes are also drawn to the color black.)

Change the solution every 2 weeks for continuous control.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 01, 2013 5:16 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Peter

I've never seen that before, but I'll sure have a couple of them fermenting in the morning. I'll report back

Finished with transoms, frames and molds. The temporary molds are from MDF. It's hard to find decent wood that is inexpensive. We're just going to throw it away, but it has to be straight and strong for a month or so. Not much else suitable.

Hardly photo worthy but I have to take a picture of something. Save all of your pointy triangles from cutting the frames. We will use them tomorrow for laying out the side panels. Don't burn them yet

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 01, 2013 5:24 pm

by gstanfield

Is the hull stitched together yet? I suspect you've spent too much time sleeping and eating and not enough time boat building

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 01, 2013 5:42 pm

by Cracker Larry

Should have it painted by the weekend, George

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 01, 2013 6:10 pm

by peter-curacao

Should be blood on the deck already! oh no I'm the last one who can make a comment like that whoops

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 01, 2013 6:22 pm

by Cracker Larry

Already got some blood on the deck! Sadly, it's mine

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 02, 2013 8:18 am

by AMC

Cracker Larry wrote:The temporary molds are from MDF. It's hard to find decent wood that is inexpensive. We're just going to throw it away, but it has to be straight and strong for a month or so. Not much else suitable.

Could you use OSB? I just absolutely have come to HATE MDF for all the dust it makes.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 02, 2013 9:22 am

by Cracker Larry

The OSB at Lowes looked awful. The MDF is dusty for sure, tough on saw blades too, but I work outside so the dust isn't really a problem.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 02, 2013 12:43 pm

by cottontop

Cl what is your favorite rum and what do you normally drink?

I'm so looking forward to your build threads. It was getting plumb boring not having some good read material. I've got some of the primer on the OD18. 1st sanding complete. Will need to fill some small holes, then finish with a last coat of primer. Was hoping to be done by now, but still about 6 weeks away. Finally decided "what the heck"?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 02, 2013 1:43 pm

by Doc_Dyer

cottontop wrote:Cl what is your favorite rum and what do you normally drink? I'm so looking forward to your build threads. It was getting plumb boring not having some good read material. I've got some of the primer on the OD18. 1st sanding complete. Will need to fill some small holes, then finish with a last coat of primer. Was hoping to be done by now, but still about 6 weeks away. Finally decided "what the heck"?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 02, 2013 2:04 pm

by willg

CL, if you don't mind jumping ahead a little bit I'd like to ask you how you are going to construct and install your transom. I see from your earlier post you will laminate 3 sheets of plywood. Are you going to laminate them completely face-to-face with no offset, thereby winding up with a 1 1/2" piece cut to the transom's final dimension? Or will you offset each one by enough to match the angle of the transom relative to the hull? Or something else?

I ask b/c I now have 3 pieces of 1/2" ply that are slightly larger than the plan's dimensions for the transom. I wanted to laminate them and then cut the top and bottom at the 72°the hull makes with the transom (and the aft end of the stringers). By doing so I thought I'd create a constant, flat gap for fillet material b/w the transom bottom and the hull and the transom top and deck.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 02, 2013 3:12 pm

by Cracker Larry

Cl what is your favorite rum

Cottontop, Doc Dyer knows me too well

how you are going to construct and install your transom. I see from your earlier post you will laminate 3 sheets of plywood. Are you going to laminate them completely face-to-face with no offset, thereby winding up with a 1 1/2" piece cut to the transom's final dimension? Or will you offset each one by enough to match the angle of the transom relative to the hull?

Will, I have done it both ways but I think it's best to offset the layers unless it's a small boat. The gaps are smaller and uses less fillers. Plus this transom is almost 8' wide and 2' high. If I laminated it before installing then I could barely lift or handle it. I will just stitch 1 transom layer to sides and bottom initially, then add the 2 inside layers later. Probably after the bottom is glassed.

Another crazy weather day, raining sideways for an hour at a time, then sunny for a half hour, then repeat. The bugs love it. I've got one of those Peter custom mosquito traps in action now and as soon as I can drink another 2 liters of tonic water there is going to be another one

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 02, 2013 5:44 pm

by Cracker Larry

Peter, do you hang these things up, put them on a table, or on the ground? Or all 3? I'll make several but it's going to take a lot of rum to empty the 2 liter bottles

Worked between rain storms today, didn't get a lot done. Reconfigured the nesting and the splice points, shuffled a lot of plywood around and pondered the plans. Takes a lot of pondering up front to get it right in the end

Now that I've cut the frames and roughly sized the sides I get a better appreciation of how large this boat is. I foresee a lot of sanding in my future.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 02, 2013 8:56 pm

by BarraMan

[quote]Takes a lot of pondering up front to get it right in the end

[/quote

Indeed! I have spent a lot of time "sitting" with my plywood, bulkheads, panels etc and now with the "stitched-up" boat - thinking about what I have done, what I need to do next, how I am going to do it etc.

My Mrs thinks I am crazy!

I tell her, "better I have a boat than a mistress"!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 03, 2013 10:01 am

by pee wee

Cracker Larry wrote:Peter, do you hang these things up, put them on a table, or on the ground? Or all 3? I'll make several but it's going to take a lot of rum to empty the 2 liter bottles

Kind of hard to tell with the reflections, but is there room between the bottle top and the liquid for skeeters to squeeze through?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 03, 2013 10:06 am

by Cracker Larry

Yes, only about 1/2 inch. Probably enough but this is the experimental model. The new and improved will provide more gap. Need to cut the bottle a couple inches higher than half

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 03, 2013 10:17 am

by pee wee

I can't wait to hear how it works for you, I think the mosquitoes in our neighborhood are in for a new experience, too. I'm scrounging around for materials already ("here, let me pour you some more diet coke").

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 03, 2013 10:39 am

by tobolamr

That's for mosquitos? I thought it was a hornet/wasp/yellow jacket trap.

What do you have in the bottom to attract the state birds of wisconsin? (mosquitos, that is...)

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 03, 2013 11:46 am

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:Peter, do you hang these things up, put them on a table, or on the ground? Or all 3? I'll make several but it's going to take a lot of rum to empty the 2 liter bottles

He Larry it's says "5. Wrap the bottle with something black, leaving the top uncovered, and place it outside in an area away from your normal gathering area. (Mosquitoes are also drawn to the color black.)" I don't know is yours working? After I posted the idea I also made one but I haven't catched a single mosquito

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 03, 2013 12:04 pm

by Cracker Larry

He Larry it's says "5.

It's going to take a lot of rum for me to drink 5 - 2 liter bottles of anything

Wrap the bottle with something black,

Check, black duct tape

leaving the top uncovered,

Duh

Check

I don't know is yours working? After I posted the idea I also made one but I haven't catched a single mosquito

And I thought I was getting reliable information

I made 2 so far and no, they haven't caught one yet. In my experience with making wine and beer, it takes about 24 hours before before the yeast starts to work converting the sugar to alcohol and releasing CO2. The liquid will bubble and fizz, and that hasn't started yet. So I still have hope

That's for mosquitos? I thought it was a hornet/wasp/yellow jacket trap. What do you have in the bottom to attract the state birds of wisconsin? (mosquitos, that is...)

It will work for wasps too, I use a similar trap for yellow jacket wasps, but we just use sugar water, or beer, or orange juice for bait. This has yeast added to the sugar water, which creates CO2 gas that attracts mosquitoes.

Wind is blowing 30 kts today so I don't know about that CO2 hanging around long.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 03, 2013 12:49 pm

by Steven

Just tape it up real tight to keep that CO2 in while the wind is blowing.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 03, 2013 6:53 pm

by Cracker Larry

Just tape it up real tight to keep that CO2 in

I'm pretty sure that will go boom

Messy, not dangerous, but probably a felony today

Moving right along, raining still and a full gale blowing. Sure ain't going fishing anytime soon.

We used our previously saved triangle scraps to define the points of the curve along the chine. Set the points on the marks, clamp them in place and bend a long batten around them. Much easier than screws or nails, easy to adjust and doesn't put a bunch of holes in the wood.

Put the panels end to end, the full length of the boat and drew out a side panel. Draw only one side , you can never draw 2 just alike.

Reversed them for the sheer line curve and did the same thing..

With one full side panel drawn out, I split the plywood right down the center, with 1/4 " to spare either way..

Stacked the marked half panels on top of the unmarked panels, aligned the edges, clamped them together and cut out both sides at the same time.

This insures that both sides are identical, without any grinding or planing. Draw it once, cut it once.

Then cleaned it up and taped the joints.

Will flip them in the morning and tape the other side.

Still raining

Still haven't trapped one mosquito. Swatted 500+

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 04, 2013 1:35 pm

by AtTheBrink

Looks good Larry! Draw once,cut once is one of the best pieces of advice I have gotten from following your builds. It saves a lot of work and frustration and produces nice fair symetrical curves.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 04, 2013 5:26 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Mike.

Dang this weather

Still blowing 35 and raining, and not warm either. The cobia run is on strong and it's been too windy to fish for weeks.

We let those splices cure overnight then sanded them smooth this morning, flipped the panels over and taped the other side.

Roughly 8' of tape laid dry. 9 ounces of mixed epoxy wets it out perfect. I use a 4" foam roller and the roller eats an ounce, then one ounce of epoxy per foot of tape usually works out just right.

If we aren't underwater by tomorrow I'll start either the bottom or the stringers, not sure what I want to do next. Stringers maybe. Wish I had room for 2 tables this size under shelter. About time for a larger shop.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 04, 2013 7:00 pm

by willg

CL, if you start a thread on your new shop build I will follow that, too!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun May 05, 2013 8:46 pm

by Aripeka Angler

Dammit man

You are a boat building animal

Looking forward to this build. Be sure to budget some time for fishing...

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon May 06, 2013 7:37 am

by Cracker Larry

The weather has been way too nasty to fish

Might as well build

It finally quit raining yesterday afternoon and I got the side panels finished up, sanded, and stacked under the table out of the way.

Then started on the bottom panels. Just like the sides, each half is a mirror image, so I stack 2 layers of plywood and draw it out on the top layer only. Again using our pointy triangles to define the points of the curve. Sorry about the lighting in the pics.

Cut it out all as one unit...

Open it up like a book...

Ready for splicing...

Cocktail hour

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon May 06, 2013 7:58 am

by cottontop

Looks like a great weekend of work nearly completed. Watched weather channel this morning. Appears your "winter" isn't going to end. What hardener are you using? Have a great day. John

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon May 06, 2013 8:02 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks John. Yeah, it feels like winter

It's never been this cold in May, or this wet. 5 more inches of rain over the weekend. Supposed to be dry today and rain again tomorrow. Great.

Slow hardener.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon May 06, 2013 11:06 am

by Larry B

Looking good there Clarry

Nice clean work as usual. Yep, slow hardner is my choice. Takes longer but gives me more time to think so I don't move too fast and mess up. Oh and no blush too.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon May 06, 2013 1:47 pm

by wegcagle

Looking good CL. Fast and clean as usual. I sure was hoping the skeeter trap would work. My new backyard is going to be a haven. Good news is that this house has a 24'x24' insulatedboat building garage (Assuming SWMBO doesn't confiscate it for her car

)

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon May 06, 2013 5:22 pm

by tobolamr

Lookin' good, Larry!

Will - I just got a quote on a 24x60, and it wasn't as bad as I thought it was going to be. Maybe you can just build a newer, bigger boat building shed?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon May 06, 2013 7:44 pm

by Cracker Larry

I appreciate the comments, thanks all. This is the fun and easy part, not much sanding yet

Will - I just got a quote on a 24x60, and it wasn't as bad as I thought it was going to be.

How much was it, if I might ask? Steel building?

Still moving forward, bottom is taped on one side. Dang, it's big!
Covered the table with plastic at the splice joints, sure don't want to glue the bottom to the table

Positioned the panels and secured them in place with a few drywall screws, marked the location for the tape edges so it wouldn't look like a drunk snake, then cut and dry fit the tape.

Then wet it out..

Tomorrow I'll sand the tape a little bit, flip it and tape the other side. Building on...

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 07, 2013 11:17 am

by wegcagle

Will - I just got a quote on a 24x60, and it wasn't as bad as I thought it was going to be. Maybe you can just build a newer, bigger boat building shed?

Yep. Got a nice little spot that's about 30x40 already picked out and concreted. All I need know is the money

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 07, 2013 12:14 pm

by Cracker Larry

The concrete is almost more expensive than the shelter. You're halfway there already

I've been working for the last 3 hours trying to flip this monster bottom panel without killing it, or myself

No success so far, but nothing broke anyway. Had to take a break and re-think this. Might have to round up some help

Either that or get stubborn. We'll see.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 07, 2013 12:24 pm

by pee wee

I was wondering how you were going to flip that big mutha by yourself. I work by myself most of the time, and it's not unusual to find me scratching my head on how to handle something that should be a two or three man job. My motto is "if I can pick up one side of it, I can handle it" . . . somehow. You'll get it figured out.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 07, 2013 1:29 pm

by tobolamr

Remember Doug, one of the early PH16 builders? He made a bracket to bolt to the transom and used something on the bow so he could rotate it on it's axis with one hand.

http://dskogman.tripod.com/ <-- The main site

Go down to "Painting" on the menu and you can see how he was able to spin it. Maybe you could make a 2x4 "clamp on each end, and just bolt it together to hold the panels, and put in a fulcrum and ratchet strap it up and then rotisserie rotate it over? Does that make sense?

EDIT: I'm really good at making things really hard.... LOL

Got a wheelbarrow? Center it length-wise on the right side, slide it onto the barrow, use the barrow to tip it gently onto an edge. Then just put it back down onto the building platform.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 07, 2013 2:02 pm

by bigtalljv

I've had much success moving things with an old engine hoist I have lying around and/or a Harbor Freight chain hoist I bolted to the ceiling in the garage. The engine hoist will go close to 7' in the air.

jason

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 07, 2013 2:22 pm

by Cracker Larry

I was wondering how you were going to flip that big mutha by yourself. I work by myself most of the time,

I work by myself also and I hate asking for help. Plus there is usually none around to ask anyway. I decided to get stubborn and do what it took, and got 'er done

Rigged a couple of hoists, made some stop blocks for it to pivot against, clamped it all flat and cranked it up with the skinning rack winch. Then I secured it on end, repositioned the lift and eased her back down.

Getting over the hump was the tricky part.

Slow and easy going down

Success, without injuries

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 07, 2013 2:28 pm

by Cracker Larry

I've had much success moving things with an old engine hoist I have lying around and/or a Harbor Freight chain hoist I bolted to the ceiling in the garage. The engine hoist will go close to 7' in the air.

I've got 2 Harbor Freight chain hoists hanging over the boat, but both of them are rusted up solid.

I've also got an engine crane, 2 come-alongs and a deer skinning rack connected to a boat trailer winch. I had everything except a good plan

Once I thought it through properly, there wasn't much to it.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 07, 2013 5:49 pm

by Cracker Larry

Got the flip side cleaned up and taped.

I'll sand this tomorrow and start on the stringers. Once the stringers are finished we can begin stitching her together. Should look a lot like a boat by the weekend

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 07, 2013 6:39 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:
I work by myself also and I hate asking for help. Plus there is usually none around to ask anyway. I decided to get stubborn and do what it took, and got 'er done

I think we could be related

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 07, 2013 7:02 pm

by Cracker Larry

I think we could be related

We are at least soul mates

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 07, 2013 9:13 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:
I think we could be related
We are at least soul mates

You can say that for sure! we think a lot about you and Dori!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 08, 2013 7:16 pm

by flattitude 1976

Cracker Larry wrote: How much was it, if I might ask? Steel building?

Larry it would depend on if you have to meet a certain code as well. I am in Palm Beach County, Fl. Permit is required

Just priced my building 40x60 with a 14' peak. 3 garage doors 10 foot tall and a passenger door.

The building alone was around 15k. Then the concrete will cost another 5k.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 09, 2013 7:18 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks for the info, that's about what I figured.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 09, 2013 9:12 am

by Cracker Larry

Working on stringers now.

Like the sides and bottom panels, stringers are identical so I first split a sheet of plywood in half and stack them.

Clamp them together and lay out half the stringer on the top section. We use our pointy scraps again to define the curves.

Cut out the first pair then use one of them as a template and cut the matching pair. Remember to stagger splice joints.

All pieces cut and ready to glue.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 09, 2013 9:43 am

by Boater45

This is a great step-by-step build.....love the detail you are showing!!

Thanks CL

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 09, 2013 10:41 am

by peter-curacao

That's a very wide boat or is it an optical illusion? Looks great as always birthday boy

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 09, 2013 10:45 am

by Steven

Birthday boy?? Well Happy B-Day!!!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 09, 2013 11:27 am

by Coast

Happy Birthday.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 09, 2013 6:28 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks for all of the birthday wishes.

That's a very wide boat or is it an optical illusion?

No optical illusion Peter, it is a very wide boat!

Got the stringers glued up today and then knocked off early

I first aligned all the pieces dry and clamped them together, then drilled holes for 1/4" dowels to pin them in place. Trying to glue 4 long pieces of plywood together in alignment is almost impossible otherwise.

Separated them again and primed all with epoxy, including the dowel pins..

Spread glue evenly with a notched spreader...

Align by driving the dowel pins and clamp them together.

Cleaned up all the drips and runs. It is a lot easier to wipe them off while wet than it is to sand them off after it cures.

Taking tomorrow off

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 11, 2013 7:23 am

by majorgator

Its looking good cracker. Good way to use that "cracker ingenuity" on the flip. Never underestimate people from the woods

Just priced my building 40x60 with a 14' peak. 3 garage doors 10 foot tall and a passenger door.
The building alone was around 15k. Then the concrete will cost another 5k.

Speaking from personal experience, a steel building for this purpose is significantly more expensive than one that is traditionally built (if you build it). Larger commercial buildings are a different story. Back before I started my own company, the company I was a part of had an American Metal Building franchise. The larger the building, the more affordable it got compared to other types. Small steel buildings are just hard to make affordable these days.

I went the traditional route on my shop. Its a 30 x 40 with 11' ceiling height. Concrete was about $2200 plus the $400 I paid the guys to place it. That includes nearly a yard of concrete in each pole base. It is taking me lot longer to build than I want, but the money I'm saving over a steel building is worth it. I could probably finish the roof this weekend, but it looks like I have 3 rows of green beans to pick and can.

Cracker, let me know if you want me to draw up some plans in AutoCAD for you.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 11, 2013 8:09 am

by Cracker Larry

That will be a nice shed, Seth

I built my shop myself also and it was much less expensive than having a steel building installed. It is 24X36 and cost about 5K to build at the time. Dang near killed me and Cracker junior setting all those 6X6 posts and hand mixing the concrete

Did you build the roof trusses or were those pre-fab?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 11, 2013 3:14 pm

by majorgator

Did you build the roof trusses or were those pre-fab?

Larry, I bought them from a truss company. Since my house is right on the road, and I'm a licensed contractor, I ended up going the route of getting a permit, which in FL usually requires engineering services. With that in mind, the pre-engineered trusses are the way to go...not to mention there are just some things that are worth spending the money on

Dang near killed me and Cracker junior setting all those 6X6 posts...

Those things sure are heavier than they look. My 14 year old cousin and I knocked them out in a day, but it wasn't an easy day

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 11, 2013 6:55 pm

by pee wee

Sorry for the thread hijack

, but I have to ask: MG, how did you get the trusses up in place? I'm used to seeing it done with a crane, I know those things can be flimsy if allowed to bend sideways. I ask because I need to build my shop/boat building space and would rather not do a metal building. Thanks Cracker, I'm done.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 11, 2013 9:43 pm

by Rogerdog

Gonna hijack too in a different direction. We're they biting?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun May 12, 2013 2:28 am

by Doc_Dyer

Happy birthday Larry

Just checked forum
You know where I've been
awesome day today
Will call when I get home

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun May 12, 2013 6:48 am

by majorgator

PeeWee - we set them by hand. They're about 34 feet long, 4:12 and on 4' centers. We walked them up one side and set on the header, and while one person held it in place, 2 other people went to the other side and set it on that header. We then made it even on both sides. With one person on a ladder on each side, a guy in the middle (on the ground) who had a long board with a fork on the end (2 x 4's) pushed it from the peak upward, flipped it. They are flimsy, but as long as you don't let the weight collapse on itself real hard, then they'll stay together no problem. If you need me to, I'll give a more in depth description via email, just let me know. These were about 200# each, so it wasn't easy.

Now I'm done with the thread hijack too

Build on, captain!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun May 12, 2013 9:04 am

by Cracker Larry

The engineered trusses do make sense, but I wanted the attic space open and uncluttered so I built mine all the way.

Those things sure are heavier than they look. My 14 year old cousin and I knocked them out in a day, but it wasn't an easy day

A day

Jeez, I think it took us a week

16 posts, 20' long, 5' in the ground. 5 bags of concrete in each hole...

Dug by hand, mixed by hand, lifted by hand. Don't really want to repeat that job!

Sorry for the thread hijack

No problem, shop talk isn't a hijack anyway

Gonna hijack too in a different direction. We're they biting?

Yes

The cobia bite is strong in Port Royal right now. I would have fished yesterday too, but there were 3 cobia tournaments going at the same time and it would be crazy out there, like Boca Grande during the tarpon run

Just checked forum
You know where I've been
awesome day today
Will call when I get home

Scoundrel, hope you didn't puke through your regulator this trip

Call me when you get home, I've got a message from Raymond for you.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun May 12, 2013 9:45 am

by Cracker Larry

Only minor progress to report. Cleaned up the glue drippings on the stringers and finished them up. Since we want them to be an exact match I clamped them together and trued the edge with a block plane and sander, then flipped them and did the same on the other edge.

Now it's time to begin assembly. Got Mother's Day duties today so won't get much done.

Happy Mother's Day to all y'all mothers out there

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 14, 2013 9:14 pm

by flattitude 1976

majorgator wrote:Its looking good cracker. Good way to use that "cracker ingenuity" on the flip. Never underestimate people from the woods

Just priced my building 40x60 with a 14' peak. 3 garage doors 10 foot tall and a passenger door.
The building alone was around 15k. Then the concrete will cost another 5k.
Speaking from personal experience, a steel building for this purpose is significantly more expensive than one that is traditionally built (if you build it). Larger commercial buildings are a different story. Back before I started my own company, the company I was a part of had an American Metal Building franchise. The larger the building, the more affordable it got compared to other types. Small steel buildings are just hard to make affordable these days.

I went the traditional route on my shop. Its a 30 x 40 with 11' ceiling height. Concrete was about $2200 plus the $400 I paid the guys to place it. That includes nearly a yard of concrete in each pole base. It is taking me lot longer to build than I want, but the money I'm saving over a steel building is worth it. I could probably finish the roof this weekend, but it looks like I have 3 rows of green beans to pick and can.

Cracker, let me know if you want me to draw up some plans in AutoCAD for you.

The problem here is the code. I am in what is considered high wind zone. It must meet FBC and be rated at 140mph bldg. I need 40 yards of concrete alone for the floor. I build a small 20x16 shed at my last house that cost me almost 14k top to bottom. Before the bust I was a general contractor for state of fl. Right now to build I would not stick build it I would run concrete and it is costing about 60$ a square foot to build that here. Plus the pad that puts me at around 20k. Same amount to do steel but the steel I get a longer clear span and faster build. Thanks for the offer though.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 15, 2013 11:53 am

by tobolamr

Wow, not only do I learn about building boats here, but also about sheds!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 16, 2013 4:59 am

by stickystuff

After 32 yrs of building everything from dog houses to highrises and multi million dollar homes i have no desire to do it anymore. My body has really taken its toll from all the abuse over the years. It is a great trade.Funny after all the years you don't even need a set of blue prints. You just make all the moves and do it automatically.I can look at something and make it. all plans are in your head. just make sure you do what your wife wants. LOLMy hands, my lungs and whatever left that is still working aches at the end of a day. These golden years really suck sometimes. BUT! Guess what? I can still cast a rod and fish my ass off. Oooorah!Build on Cracker. I am her with ya in spirit. Not the liquid one.May have some more goodies for ya in the near future. I need to thin out some more treasures.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 16, 2013 9:08 am

by Cracker Larry

Oooorah!Build on Cracker. I am her with ya in spirit.

Oooorah Capt. Ken! I'm building on...

Now it's time to wrestle the side panels into position

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 16, 2013 9:20 am

by AtTheBrink

This the first GF I have seen being put together. The build process on these boats is quite a bit different than the others I have seen. It is looking good Larry.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 16, 2013 9:29 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Mike. Yeah, these boat are initially built right side up. It's called the Sharpie method. Simpler than a strongback and jig, but a little trickier to get everything aligned. Once the sides are on, you are supposed to flip the boat and install the bottom but I'm going to try to stitch the bottom in place. Not sure how it's going to work out

We'll see

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 16, 2013 12:08 pm

by peter-curacao

Looking good Larry, the width of her keeps amazing me

(proportions wise)

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 16, 2013 7:36 pm

by Cracker Larry

the width of her keeps amazing me (proportions wise)

She is going to be a wide girl for sure!

This was almost as hard as giving birth

These 18' panels are hard to work with when the only helper is a dog. It took us dang near all day to wrestle them into submission, and all manner of props, stops and straps, but we got her delivered

And getting the bow transom attached took every cuss word I know, made up a few, the dog left...

It's a girl

Big fat baby too.

Getting her squared up...

Everything fits perfect and she's fair and square

Long day of work today. Tomorrow I'll glue and tape the transoms and try to stitch the bottom.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 16, 2013 7:38 pm

by peter-curacao

You are a boatbuilding beast!

looks great to me!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 16, 2013 9:10 pm

by cottontop

Peter you are correct. He is truly the best I've ever seen. He won't admit it, but he is the master. Fine pictures, building process, and craftsmanship.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 17, 2013 10:48 am

by AtTheBrink

Coming together nicely. Are you going with a traditional jonboat layout with thwart seating or an open cockpit?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 17, 2013 11:25 am

by tech_support

good stuff

......

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 17, 2013 4:15 pm

by Cracker Larry

I appreciate it y'all

I think Peter has me beat for craftsmanship and ingenuity. Have you seen that dang boat he is building

I can't wait to visit! I like building small boats where I can get gratification in a few months. Those big projects that take years aren't for me

And Cottontop John, I've been aboard your EZMorning

Nothing slack about that boat

It's what pushed me over the edge into building a OD18. One of the few boats I've ever had that ain't for sale

Yet.

Are you going with a traditional jonboat layout with thwart seating or an open cockpit?

Open cockpit, center console, T-top, side decks, the works.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 17, 2013 7:46 pm

by peter-curacao

Thanks Larry but intentionally it wasn't my idea either to take such a long time building it, indeed such a big project takes the courage away from you (well at least me) once in a while, specially if you build alone like you and me.

Anyway saw that you are gonna put in a center console, this afternoon I posted a link from defender in the finished boat section about seats, in between those seats I saw some nice little consoles, you probably have your sources but I thought I mentioned it anyway

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 18, 2013 1:51 pm

by tobolamr

Wow CL - Nicely done!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun May 19, 2013 6:11 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Larry but intentionally it wasn't my idea either to take such a long time building it, indeed such a big project takes the courage away from you (well at least me) once in a while, specially if you build alone like you and me.

It takes a lot of courage to even start a 25' boat

To finish it without ignoring the details takes stamina

The great thing about the Bateau forum is the support group. No matter if we are in the Georgia swamps, or Curacao, or any place else on earth, we are not building alone

It's really pretty cool that boat builders from all over the world can come together here with a common bond. Everybody learns something from everyone else. Everyone gets along. Well, mostly

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun May 19, 2013 7:17 pm

by wegcagle

Great work CL. You keeping this for a poling boat, or is this another entrepreneurial expedition? Come July, you can certainly count on me for flipping/sanding/whatever if needed. You got my number, and I'm only a couple of hours away. I work for beer and rum

My boat is officially delivered and in her new home in Augusta. Sure can't wait to finish her. It's kinda funny and kinda sad that my 15ft boat has taken longer than Peter's 25fter

I can almost guarantee I've got another 6 months easy when I get restarted.

Peter, that boat of yours is nothing short of art, but (for my tastes) it needs a little more red on the decks though

Miss you brother. If you need a place to crash during your adventures across the US, give me a call.

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun May 19, 2013 7:25 pm

by Hope2float

Hey Larry its good to see you at it as usual. The boat or baby looks fine and crisp. I love watching your builds. I also know the feeling of struggling by yourself, it sucks. When you work alone you get pretty inventive on how to get things done.
And A Big BUILD_ON ! goes out to you
Dave

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon May 20, 2013 7:24 am

by Cracker Larry

Great work CL. You keeping this for a poling boat, or is this another entrepreneurial expedition?

Thanks Will, it's another entrepreneurial endeavor. My client is actually a neighbor of yours, or will be when you return to Augusta. He came down yesterday to check things out and make some executive decisions

Wish you were already here, I've got to flip this big girl this week and it looks like it's going to be a challenge!

A Big BUILD_ON ! goes out to you

Appreciate it Dave. Your boat is looking great too

That's another BIG boat!

I got the transoms glued and taped in place, and all the frames tabbed to the hull sides with small strips tape, so now I can remove all the temporary screws holding everything together. Today we start on rub rails, weather permitting. A couple of days to finish those and then it's time to flip her

Been some rough weather lately, hope all of our friends are safe from the weekend tornadoes.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon May 20, 2013 1:59 pm

by stickystuff

Here is what I did on flipping. If you can brace this off. Take a saw horse and extend the height to approx 3 feet tall. Add an eye bolt to the bow and another on saw horse. Tie bow close to the horse. Raise the transom area where it ishigher than 1/2 of the widest part of the hull. In your case prob 4 ft. off the ground. ad another center eye bolt on both horse and transom and raise it up so that your hull will spin on these two axis. Sounds easy huh.,. Yeah right. I used my engine hoist and lifted it up and then swiveled it 180. Need some kind of braceing to keep chit together while spinning. I did this on XF20. It was a beatch to do but got it done.My PH16 , I slid it on the trailer and took it to my buddies lumber yard. Took two fork lifts and picked it up and set it back on the trailer. Easy as pie. Hmm. bet you can find two forklifts in that box of junk I gave you.LOL> Where there is a will there is a way.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon May 20, 2013 2:51 pm

by Cracker Larry

Yep Ken, that's about what I was planning on doing. It's either that or round up 4 country boys for a few minutes, but I do hate asking for help. I flipped my OD18 twice by myself, so I'm sure I can do it

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon May 20, 2013 7:37 pm

by stickystuff

Heading to Sebastian Inlet state park in the AM. Looking forward to some chill time even though it aint gonna be chilly. Fish,fish,fish.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 22, 2013 11:38 am

by Cracker Larry

Sounds like a good time, Ken. Catchem up!

Plodding along. Sometimes it would be nice to have an extra hand. Could somebody just hold this while I draw a line

We decided the bow transom needed some cutting down, sort of looked like a tongue sticking out.

Got it marked and cut, then squared up the boat again screwed on a few diagonal bracing boards in preparation for the flip.

With the frames tabbed in place I was able to remove all the temporary screws and blocks attaching them to the sides. I will have to cut the tabbing out later so don't want to get carried away with it, just enough to hold it together while I glass the outside.

Raymond is coming over today to look at upholstery and aluminum needs, and to help me flip this big girl. Going to hold off on the rub rails until the outside is glassed.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 22, 2013 12:20 pm

by Joe H

These 18' panels are hard to work with when the only helper is a dog.

Hey Larry, that ain't just any dog, that’s a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever!

Upholstery, aluminum, brightwork, man this is gonna be one sweet ride.

Joe H

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 22, 2013 12:36 pm

by Cracker Larry

Hey Larry, that ain't just any dog, that’s a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever!

He ain't much of a boat builder though Joe. Spends most of his day in the pool. Waiting on ducks I reckon, but he hasn't tolled any up yet

Upholstery, aluminum, brightwork, man this is gonna be one sweet ride.

Yep

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 22, 2013 2:13 pm

by tobolamr

How much ya want in labor to build my PH22? LOL

I am very interested in how you're going to trick this one out... The "cutting down the forward transom so it doesn't look like a tongue" got me laughing, and thinking of the Rolling Stones...

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 22, 2013 2:32 pm

by Prarie Dog

Good job getting rid of the Tombstone Larry. As always, your work is incredible. I'm out of superlatives.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 22, 2013 7:03 pm

by Cracker Larry

How much ya want in labor to build my PH22? LOL

About 40K. That's a lot of boat

Good job getting rid of the Tombstone Larry

That's a good word to describe it

Thanks Paul. Refresh my memory on how you brought your control cables and wiring harness out the transom.

Flipping party was postponed due to bad weather. Rescheduled for tomorrow, when it will probably be bad again

Never seen it rain so much as the last few months. At least the shop and house is high and dry, and still standing

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 23, 2013 4:04 pm

by Prarie Dog

Larry, we brought the steering cable through the rear deck in the right rear corner, the wiring, fuel line, shift cable and throttle cables come through the right motorwell side.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 23, 2013 4:34 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Paul. Show me a picture of your rear deck area please. Don't make me hunt for it, I'm tired

You used mechanical steering didn't you? We want to use the starboard transom locker as an insulated cooler, and the port side as an insulated live well. Trying to figure the best cable routing without interfering too much with cooler space. Will have a jackplate too. It might be better to come straight out the back of the transom with a rigging tube. Although I'm probably a month away from having to decide, I like to think ahead. The 5 P theory

Got the fat girl flipped today without busting anything, and I ended up doing it all by myself. My helpers were delayed, bad weather imminent again, and my impatience and stubborn took over again

Dang, that was a pretty good 1 man job! Dog hid under the truck.

My client is about to buy me a cuba libre grande

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 23, 2013 5:05 pm

by Rogerdog

You flipped that thing alone! Make it a double.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 23, 2013 5:35 pm

by Cracker Larry

I did

Just watch.....rolled her like a pig on a spit.

Eye bolts bow and stern on center but a little below the CG. 2 come-alongs to lift it

Picked it up and pull the bottom panel out onto cardboard. I always save the plywood packing cardboard for stuff like this. The bottom panel is a big heavy SOB. Floppy too!

It almost didn't fit to flip it.

Stop blocks to keep it from sliding. It sure wants to slide.

An inch at a time easy all around going up...

Got a couple more gray hairs about here. Am I worried? Naw, it ain't my plywood

Over the hump, with the skinning hoist attached to the center frame letting her down easy..

Block it up level....

I put the bottom on by myself too

Had to get it on before it rained. I think it was the hardest part. Dang, 16 X 7 piece of plywood. Won't need to visit the gym today. Good news is it fits

Blocked it down so it could get used to it's new position in life.

Ye of little faith

Going for the second double now

Tomorrow I'll stitch her up.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 23, 2013 6:53 pm

by Prarie Dog

Larry, I'll call Si and get him to take a pic with his phone and send it to you. All the pics in my gallery are a little far away to show the detail well, is it cool if I give him your number?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 23, 2013 9:27 pm

by Dougster

I gotta chime in with a congratulations on that cool flip Larry. It really helps to see the pics of it going over. Big old, early times flimsy hull like that and you rolled it by yourself with no harm and nothing but some eyebolts, come-alongs, and stubborn to do it with. Oh yeah, and the scrap stop blocks.

Still on board Dougster

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 23, 2013 10:48 pm

by robbiro

Larry, you fit the song lyric: "A country boy will survive." I have yet seen something you could not do if you really wanted to. I really enjoy your teaching builds!!

Keep on Buildin'
Robbie

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 24, 2013 8:16 am

by topwater

Nice flip Larry

That brought back some memories

Only I had much more room

Looking good build on !

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 24, 2013 10:09 am

by Cracker Larry

Larry, I'll call Si and get him to take a pic with his phone and send it to you. All the pics in my gallery are a little far away to show the detail well, is it cool if I give him your number?

Sure Paul, feel free to give Si my number. Thanks!

Appreciate the comments Doug, Robbie, John. Not many problems that can't be solved with some stubborn want to and a good plan

Wish our leaders would figure that out.

Time to start stitching and gluing now

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 24, 2013 2:36 pm

by Aripeka Angler

Looking good Captain

You are making good time on this boat.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 24, 2013 8:04 pm

by stickystuff

See. I told you the eye bolt system works good. Amazeing how a little brain work makes it all come together. Good job. Sebastian sucked. Beautiful weather but nothing hitting unless you were way offshore. Glad to be back home. Tarpon are here.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 25, 2013 9:48 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Captain Richard. It's getting close to time to steal some of the king''s fish again. I can't wait

Capt. Ken, yep, the eye bolts were the trick, that and a little want to. Show us a tarpon picture, I haven't fished much lately.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 25, 2013 10:15 pm

by Cracker Larry

She is stitched....

The fit of the bottom panel is perfect, I don't know how Jacques does this, but if you cut everything to the plan dimensions, it all fits

I align the bottom panel square with the transom, attach it with a couple of screws and stitch it one at a time working equally on each side moving forward.

And then she is spot glued between the stitches. We first primed the edges, then make a fillet between all the stitches. When this cures we remove the stitches and complete the fillets all around..

The bottom is glued to both transoms and tacked down temporarily with a couple of screws on each end. A concrete block doesn't hurt to keep it flat..

Now we wait for the glue to dry, finish the fillets and tape it. I think I'll wait until about Tuesday to do that

Y'all have a great and safe Memorial Day weekend, and don't forget what it's about. If you have your health thank the Lord. If you have your freedom, thank a soldier.

This is a weekend to remember the brave. Thanks. http://www.jensensutta.com/slideshows/RTB/

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 25, 2013 10:47 pm

by ks8

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 25, 2013 11:52 pm

by hockey52

Looking good Larry.

Of course we wouldn't expect anything else.

PD and T haven't been able to work on the Muncher. Keeping my boys busy this weekend working on my room!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun May 26, 2013 2:56 am

by SalmonMan

Cracker Larry wrote:Y'all have a great and safe Memorial Day weekend, and don't forget what it's about. If you have your health thank the Lord. If you have your freedom, thank a soldier.

This is a weekend to remember the brave. Thanks. http://www.jensensutta.com/slideshows/RTB/

All gave some, some gave all. God bless them all! Remember them all on Memorial Day.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun May 26, 2013 11:08 am

by ks8

Yes. Remembering what and who they gave for...

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 29, 2013 4:59 pm

by Cracker Larry

PD and T haven't been able to work on the Muncher. Keeping my boys busy this weekend working on my room!

You deserve it for putting up with them, Alicia. I suspect there will be some payback too

Still moving forward, or around and round. It's a long way around this boat with a sander. Pulled the stitches and sanded the tacks, and cleaned up the joints at the transoms. Then made full length fillets all around the bottom and filled the stitch and screw holes at the same time.

A minor interruption....Cane yelped for help. He only barks for snakes and gopher tortoises and he barks so seldom that he barely can even bark, more like a squeak

But when he does barks, there is usually problem that requires my attention.

So I rescued him from the little rat snake and went back to boat building. Snake caught and released. This is the second time I've released the same snake this week and it keeps coming back.

Let those cure, then sanded it again to smooth it out and form a good radius for the tape and cloth.

Yep. It's a long way around this boat with a sander

Sure glad it's not any larger

One more step completed, now she's ready for taping and glassing. Will start that tomorrow I reckon.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 29, 2013 6:06 pm

by gstanfield

Looking good pard!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 29, 2013 6:38 pm

by stickystuff

Thats why I only built one xf20.I realy have no desire to build any more. My bones just can't handle it anymore. These Golden years realy suck sometimes.I will be doing some inventory thinning out once again in the near future. Lots of good stuff will be on the market. You get first shot again.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 29, 2013 6:45 pm

by Boater45

Looking good CL!!!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 29, 2013 10:26 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks George, Will, and the old man

I hear ya Ken, it hurts me too, don't know how many more I've got in me. Be glad to make another supply trip to Crystal river when you start thinning out though. I ain't done yet

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 30, 2013 10:00 am

by wegcagle

Nice work Larry. You make it sound so simple and easy. You should work to put more 4 letter words and blood splatters in there

At least that's how mine's being built.

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 30, 2013 11:06 am

by Cracker Larry

Will, I think I exhausted all my 4 letter words getting the side panels and bow transom attached

And there is considerable DNA splattered all over frame D. More to follow, I'm sure

You make it sound so simple and easy.

It's just perception. Already almost 90 degrees today and there isn't much easy about sanding and glassing in the heat.

My Dad taught me a long time ago about perception. No matter how long or how rough the voyage, or how beat up you got, before you make port you stop, you clean the boat and make her shipshape all around, then you clean yourself and put on fresh clothes. Come into port looking like you just spent an afternoon on the pond, people are watching

It was his solid rule and one I try to observe. Sometimes better than others

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 30, 2013 12:34 pm

by tobolamr

That is one fine rule to follow...

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 30, 2013 1:13 pm

by ks8

Some long distance cruisers even re-paint in a secluded anchorage or inlet before entering port. Arriving looking clean and shipshape.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 30, 2013 10:30 pm

by Cracker Larry

In all honesty I've limped in looking pretty bedraggled a time or 2 myself when my Dad wasn't looking. No excuse for it I've been told, but sometimes there just ain't no other place to stop and regroup

All outside taping is done and a seal coat of epoxy on most of the outside. I like to get it sealed at this stage so I can clean it with a hose. Wasn't nothing to it Will, didn't even break a sweat

Right

I sure would have liked to tape and glass it all wet on wet in one day, but that wasn't going to happen with just me.

Another bite off the elephant. One bite at a time. My client just bought me another drink

It takes a lot of drinks to build a boat.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 30, 2013 10:37 pm

by Joe H

Man that looks good, boat looks nice too

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 30, 2013 10:37 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:
It takes a lot of drinks to build a boat.

You're serious? ROFL

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 30, 2013 10:51 pm

by Cracker Larry

You're serious? ROFL

I figure about 1 gallon of rum per gallon of epoxy, give or take. More if it's hot. It's been hot and I just finished the first 2 gallons of epoxy.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 30, 2013 11:05 pm

by pee wee

When you mentioned tonic water bottles in relation to rum drinks, I thought it must have been a typo. A quick online search for "rum and tonic drink" confirmed that I had read right. Purely in the spirit of educational research, I picked up some tonic to go with some rum for a scientific experiment. It's good!! er, I mean, this will require further study.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 31, 2013 9:47 am

by willg

[quote]
Still moving forward, or around and round. It's a long way around this boat with a sander. Pulled the stitches and sanded the tacks, and cleaned up the joints at the transoms. Then made full length fillets all around the bottom and filled the stitch and screw holes at the same time.[quote]

CL, would you educate me please about the full length fillets? What I'm guessing you did was to build up a rounded fillet along each panel joint, laying it on top of the fillet material you had used to weld the panels b/w the stitches. I ask because I pulled my PH18's stitches last night and want to proceed in the best way (the way of the Master Cracker).

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 31, 2013 11:04 am

by wegcagle

Wasn't nothing to it Will, didn't even break a sweat

Looks like good and clean work from here boss.
I like the rum to epoxy ratio....now I just gotta keep the rum costs out of the boat building funds

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 31, 2013 12:49 pm

by Cracker Larry

CL, would you educate me please about the full length fillets? What I'm guessing you did was to build up a rounded fillet along each panel joint, laying it on top of the fillet material you had used to weld the panels b/w the stitches.

That's exactly how I did it. Remember to give the glue tacks a light sanding and cleaning first, then prime the seam with neat epoxy and build the fillet right over the top of the tacks. Make it a little fat so you can sand it down to a nice radius.

now I just gotta keep the rum costs out of the boat building funds

I price that into the job

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 31, 2013 1:33 pm

by wegcagle

I price that into the job

That's because you've figured out how to build boats with other people's money

I'm jealous for sure.

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jun 01, 2013 8:48 pm

by wildbill

I'm only a few years younger and all I can say is wow.

nothinbutadvilbill

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jun 01, 2013 10:29 pm

by wadestep

Cracker Larry wrote:
I figure about 1 gallon of rum per gallon of epoxy, give or take. More if it's hot. It's been hot and I just finished the first 2 gallons of epoxy.

Larry, I was thinking: You could put epoxy pumps on your rum bottles, and make sure you are keeping the correct ratio! Sounds like it should be 2 pumps resin, 1 pump hardner, and 3 pumps rum.

Not sure how much epoxy I'd be able to apply in one sitting at that rate...

Your taping/laminating is a thing of beauty. It's always enjoyable watching a pro's progress.
wade

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 02, 2013 7:14 am

by Cracker Larry

Larry, I was thinking: You could put epoxy pumps on your rum bottles, and make sure you are keeping the correct ratio! Sounds like it should be 2 pumps resin, 1 pump hardner, and 3 pumps rum. Not sure how much epoxy I'd be able to apply in one sitting at that rate...

Not a bad plan

Although a bar type shot counter would be better for epoxy application. Then you just keep up the count as you mix and catch up after the epoxy is applied. The sanding days require more rum than the epoxy days so you have to keep a running count to stay even

Yesterday was a sanding day. Not much to say but Ughhh.....if sanding is good for the soul, mine should be very healthy

Had an old friend stop by to visit while I was sanding, and I mean old, got to be 100 or more

He stops in once or twice a year.. Haven't seen this one in while...

Neat creature

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 02, 2013 7:33 am

by Cracker Larry

Prairie Dog, Sy sent me those pictures last night. Thanks again

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 02, 2013 1:53 pm

by Cracker Larry

Normally I would just put the dry cloth over raw plywood and wet it all out together, but this bottom is so dang big, about 1/4 acre I think, and the weather so warm, I decided to pre-coat it all before glassing. Glad I did. It should really help the wet out to go better, working alone. That's 70 ounces of epoxy I won't have to squeegee thru the cloth

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 02, 2013 2:36 pm

by AtTheBrink

That is a lot of hull to glass! Good luck today with the glassing.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jun 03, 2013 9:50 am

by stickystuff

I did mine early morning or evening after sun went dow. Wish I was there to help you. Makes it a lot easier if someone mixes while you spread.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jun 03, 2013 10:46 am

by Cracker Larry

I'd buy the beer

Strong storms came up yesterday afternoon and I didn't risk glassing in the rain. More storms today, maybe tomorrow

Looks like I get a day off

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jun 05, 2013 7:43 pm

by Cracker Larry

Not much progress to report here. It's been raining like a cow peeing on a flat rock for the last 3 days, and now we have a tropical storm coming for the next 3. I can't glass the bottom until it quits raining sideways, and I missed my window of opportunity to get it done wet on wet. So naturally, I had to sand it all again. The whole thing. Got to love sanding to build a boat

At least I can sand in the rain.

Looking for a Huckleberry too. If anyone wants a free lesson in glassing and fairing....and sanding, Cracker Boats will take on an apprentice

RV hookup provided.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jun 06, 2013 12:03 am

by Prarie Dog

Cracker Larry wrote:Prairie Dog, Sy sent me those pictures last night. Thanks again

Glad he could help

. Did they answer your questions?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jun 06, 2013 12:03 am

by Prarie Dog

Cracker Larry wrote:Prairie Dog, Sy sent me those pictures last night. Thanks again

Glad he could help

. Did they answer your questions?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jun 06, 2013 7:36 am

by Cracker Larry

Yes, thanks

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jun 07, 2013 6:01 pm

by Cracker Larry

Moving forward at the pace of above pictured gopher tortoise. Trust me, he don't go fast. 5 days of storms, 6 more inches of rain, but I think they have finally passed

I took a hose and scrub brush to it and cleaned it real good. Along with the entire building area, walls, posts, beams, floor and all. Got rid of all the accumulated saw dust, sanding dust, dead bugs, pollens, bird droppings and other such stuff. Nice thing about being outside is you can wash it all down. Bad part is you can't work when the weather is bad.

Planning to glass it in the morning. Still looking for a Huckleberry, got some calls to make

If not, I'll go it alone. Nothing but a thing. A big fat thing, but just a thing

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jun 07, 2013 11:27 pm

by snookiehunter

Yep, she's a beast, to glass alone. It took my wife, and me 7 hours, to tape, and glass, wet on wet. The tunnel was a bear, but we whooped it. I glassed the inside alone, and it was a job. But, I enjoyed it.
Its looking good so far. and so familiar. I think you'll make us proud. Hopefully, the weather will cooperate.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jun 08, 2013 3:39 am

by stickystuff

if it weren't for my empty wallet and wifes health problems, I would be there with my lil travel trailer. You will be just fine. Just take your time. The heat is a bitch this time of year. Hit the pool in between and cool down and keep on glassin.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jun 08, 2013 7:54 pm

by Cracker Larry

You will be just fine. Just take your time. The heat is a bitch this time of year. Hit the pool in between and cool down and keep on glassin.

Perfect advice Capt. Ken

Sure hope your wife is OK! That's exactly what I did. Most of my Huckleberries were all camping in the river this week, the scoundrels, they are having more fun than I did

Just got a couple of pictures from them of their play boats

...

All volunteered to come help on Monday afternoon. I've repaired 3 of these boats for cheap, some more than once, so they are willing, but I'm impatient and stubborn and wanted to move forward while the sun shines

It hasn't been shining very often. Tried to enlist Mrs Cracker and she told me not no, but hell no

The heat was a bitch, 94, took me 9 hours to get her done by myself. Whew. Still got to piece in the small side areas, but not today.

Figured it would take about 220 ounces of epoxy, so I pre-measured 216. Red is resin, blue is hardener. 12 batches of 18 ounces each, ready to mix. Everything else ready to go. Tools, rags, vinegar, rum drink...

Got to freshen that drink!

Started at the transom and worked forward, spreading 18 ounces at a time with a 12" drywall knife and roller. Should have used 24 ounce batches, had time for it in hindsight. About 5 hours later....

WHEW

Dip in the pool. Dog too.

Then finished it up.

Came out great. Weather Gods cooperated for a change

My guestimate of epoxy was almost perfect, I had to mix 1 more 6 ounce batch to finish the bow. 222 ounces. Missed it by 2

Sure glad that's behind me and not in front of me. Stick a fork in me, I'm done

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jun 08, 2013 8:39 pm

by willg

A thing of beauty, CL.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jun 08, 2013 9:17 pm

by Knottybuoyz

Nice work Mr. Cracker!

I like your idea for laying out the epoxy batches before hand. Have to store that one in the ole' memory banks for future reference. I mix almost identical size batches, 500 ml (Cannuck Metricfrackination ya know). Seems about ideal size to get rolled out efficiently before my hands cramp up!

My session today lasted almost 7 1/2 hrs. Only got 2/3 rds of the side done. My helper, an keen learner, he built a steel Bruce Roberts 20 yrs ago and was fascinated with the epoxy & fiberglass process. He had to get his fingers into everything from mixing with the Sticky Stuff dispenser to squeegeeing and rolling. All I could do is stand back and let him go to it but keeping a close watch on what he was doing. It was nice having a buddy in the shed though. Beats talkin' to the ole' Tom Cat!

Nice to see you stayed hydrated too! Carry on!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jun 08, 2013 10:56 pm

by Dougster

Good on you and I'm glad for you. That's a great big long day for sure. I wimped out on the wet on wet and did the Nina half at time. I know it's a good feeling though. Did you really take a break and hit the pool before finishing that last bit? That would be grace under pressure for sure. I'd have pushed on in fear of stuff setting up or something and probable made a big error 'cuz of fatigue. Cool idea using different colored cups for resin and hardener.

Still in the game Dougster

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 09, 2013 3:41 am

by stickystuff

Have you heard that song by Toby Keith?Red Solo cup. NOW! Thats why you were short two batches.

Great job as usual.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 09, 2013 7:14 am

by topwater

Nice job on the layup Cl

2 oz miss is real good , what was left in the cups after scrapping .
24 0z is the way to go on big lay ups, but when you drop a fresh batch on the floor its a real mess to clean up

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 09, 2013 9:10 am

by wegcagle

Nice work as usual Larry. How did you calculate the amount of epoxy you would need? I love the idea of premeasuring the epoxy. That not only saves time, but also helps keep you from mixing 2 parts resin with 1 part...resin

Thanks

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 09, 2013 9:37 am

by Cracker Larry

Nice work Mr. Cracker!

Thanks Rick. Compared to that monster you are glassing, this one is light work. I don't know how you do it.

Did you really take a break and hit the pool before finishing that last bit?

Twice, Doug

Got to pace myself.

Appreciate the comments Ken, Doug, Will, John. Having a support group makes it go easier for sure

How did you calculate the amount of epoxy you would need?

18 yards of cloth, 12 ounces per yard. Plus a little for waste and what the rollers eat. Measuring up front saves a lot of time later while trying to mix and spread, and it greatly reduces the chance for errors.

Can't hardly move today, old back is stiff. It's raining again anyway. Just what we need

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 09, 2013 11:31 am

by gstanfield

Let it rain, I don't want to get down there and find out the ocean dried up from lack of rain in GA

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 09, 2013 12:15 pm

by TRC886

Beautiful work, Capt'n

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 09, 2013 9:48 pm

by wegcagle

12oz/yd. I'll put that in the memory bank. Is that 12oz mixed or 12oz resin?

Trying to figure out where I strive to be,

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 09, 2013 10:48 pm

by AtTheBrink

12 oz of mixed epoxy per yard of 12 oz fabric, 6 oz of epoxy for 6oz fabric and so on... 50% epoxy/50% glass

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jun 10, 2013 10:07 pm

by snookiehunter

Looking real good. I just wish you were ahead of me, so I could follow your lead. Your glass job looks way better than mine. At least I'll follow you in fairing. Keep up the good work. I look forward to your progress.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jun 11, 2013 7:18 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks. It's just practice. My first one didn't look that good either

Hope to start fairing by the end of the week.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jun 11, 2013 7:28 am

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote: Hope to start fairing by the end of the week.

LOL

Most say hope finish fairing end of...

looking good btw

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jun 11, 2013 8:16 am

by garym

What a nice, clean well thought out build. Its amazing to see what you can do with experience and great craftsmanship.
Of course all of those high tech tools you have don't hurt. You know, the yellow thingies with lead in them, I think they're called pencils and the metal thing with all of the marks on it - Tape measure. Lets not forget the blue and red cups and that square combination gadget.

Clearly your client will not know the joy of porpoising his way to the fishing grounds with his outboard turned 10 degrees to port just so he can go straight.

Build on!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jun 13, 2013 8:47 pm

by Cracker Larry

Too funny Gary

Appreciate the comments.

Clearly your client will not know the joy of porpoising his way to the fishing grounds with his outboard turned 10 degrees to port just so he can go straight.

I sure hope not

Still building on and dang it's hot! 98 today, heat index 110 they say. We've been instructed by our government to remain indoors, drink plenty of fluids, and watch out for the pets and elderly. God bless the USA to tell us to care for our pets and old people, drink fluids and don't go outside

We left off needing to glass the side panels, and I saw some some discussions in other threads about glassing vertical surfaces. It can be a PITA, or it can be easy. I'm all for easy

This is where we left off, needing the sides glassed on a vertical...

Trimmed off all the overhanging cloth and sanded the edges. Since we let it rest over 24 hours, we have to sand it all again. Always have to sand

Feather the edges of the cloth so the new overlaps will blend in, and then clean it good.

Same both sides. Now measure and cut the filler pieces for both sides, roll them up and move them out of the way. If you try to wet out a 14' foot long piece of cloth hanging in the vertical, it's just going to sag and fall on the floor. Trying to tape it in place is a useless mess too and masking tape pulls out the cloth threads.

Here is the trick. Take it slow, don't fight it. Mix enough neat epoxy to roll on the area needing covering, plus the overlaps, and roll it on both sides. I've got a shaded side and a sunny side, and it's almost 100 in the shade, so I roll that side first, then the sunny side.

Have time to make a fresh drink, quick splash in the pool, cool down and kick back in front of the fan for a few minutes. Me and dog both. Dog is doing his best to glue himself to the concrete.

Every 5 minutes go stick your finger in it. After exactly 25 minutes the sunny side is tacking up a little bit, like contact cement that is good to stick. The shady side is still slick. So we roll out the cloth on the tacky resin and roll it down with a dry roller. Press it into place and it stays there like a piece of wallpaper. I hate wallpaper. This ain't nearly as bad.

Now finger check the shady side, still slick. So go ahead and wet out the sunny side. It's 2 yards of cloth, got a little pre-soak, so 18 ounces is perfect to wet it out.

Check the shady side, it's tacking up now, do the same thing. Easy. Don't fight it, work with it

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jun 13, 2013 9:03 pm

by Cracker Larry

Checked the bottom for true. It doesn't get much better. Won't need much fairing here

Moving on to the bottom runners. The plans called for 1X1 but we thought those were a little skimpy and went with 1X2, yellow pine. I couldn't get pieces quite as long as I wanted them so scarfed on another 16" with a 45 scarf. Tapered both the front and rear edges at a 45 too. I'll shape these out later.

Again, it's been over 24 hours so we have to sand and clean. I first dry fit the runners and attached them with a few screws, and mark the locations. Then remove them, coat with neat epoxy, and then glue. Keep the screws in the runners, they give you something to handle them with while you pre-coat and glue. One at a time, 6 ounces of glue for each. Spread it fast. It won't last 4 minutes in a cup at these temperatures. Once it's spread out you have about 20 minutes.

Use the squeezed out glue to make the fillets around them. Tomorrow I'll final shape the runners and glass them over.

Staying well hydrated, but not remaining indoors as instructed

Pets and elderly are good

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jun 13, 2013 9:50 pm

by glossieblack

Thanks for the ongoing tutorial CL. Very nice work.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jun 13, 2013 9:55 pm

by AtTheBrink

Lookin' good Larry! Are you planning on taking her all the way to paint before you flip her back over? Has paint color been dicussed or decided yet?

And isn't it nice that Big Uncle Sugar is looking out for us with these advisories? I can't wait until we are issued a government nanny to tell us when to take a leak and remind us to put the seat down...

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jun 13, 2013 10:36 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Mike. I plan to graphite the bottom and finish it completely, then fair and prime the sides up to the rub rail line. They still need to be glued and filleted, plus finishing out the inside will certainly scuff up the outside before it's over, so no, I won't finish paint it yet. I'll mask off where the rub rails will land, prime it to there and paint the sides later. I only want to flip it once more, it's a big boat, so I'll do everything I can before the flip. In my experience it's a lot easier to glue on the the rub rails evenly with the boat right side up, so no need to finish paint the sides yet. Primer to the rubrail line is my plan. Plans are subject to change

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jun 13, 2013 10:40 pm

by Cracker Larry

Postby glossieblack » Thu Jun 13, 2013 8:50 pm
Thanks for the ongoing tutorial CL. Very nice work

Appreciate it. No need for people to keep re-inventing the wheel. I keep seeing repeat struggles that there are easy solutions for. I like easy, did I mention that

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jun 13, 2013 10:43 pm

by Prarie Dog

Very clean nice looking work Larry, really like the strakes.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jun 13, 2013 10:56 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Paul. How far apart did you space the runners on yours?. The plans didn't specify. I went with 36", to allow room for the trailer bunks to be positioned under the stringers and the runners on the outside of each bunk.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jun 13, 2013 11:08 pm

by Irish

Nice work Larry. Did you just glue and screw the runners.... no weights, any concerns about putting holes through the bottom of the hull.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jun 13, 2013 11:14 pm

by Rogerdog

I bet your client will be able to porpoise and run at a 10 degree offset despite a straight and true hull!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jun 13, 2013 11:14 pm

by Prarie Dog

Larry, your spacing is quite a bit wider than ours are with just about the same shape. Hope yours works better than ours. A pic.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jun 14, 2013 8:44 am

by tcason

Did your plans call for bottom runners?
I am building a 13 Garvey and no bottom runners on plans. I prefer no runners but may want them for bite after and trying to turn?

Are you adding spray rails? - if so please document to make sure I did my right.............. I moved mine up the sides approx. 2 inches to expose them as bright work.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jun 14, 2013 8:48 am

by Cracker Larry

Did you just glue and screw the runners.... no weights, any concerns about putting holes through the bottom of the hull.

Thanks Irish, yes just glue and screws. Using weight is frustrating since they will try to slide all over the bottom. Epoxy glue is slick as grease. The screws keep them perfectly in position. No worries about the holes, I will fill them, glass over the runners, plus the inside will get glassed too, so the holes will disappear.

I bet your client will be able to porpoise and run at a 10 degree offset despite a straight and true hull!

Thanks for the picture, Paul. We'll see how they work out

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jun 14, 2013 8:53 am

by Cracker Larry

Did your plans call for bottom runners?

Yes. Being flat bottomed runners are needed to keep the hull from sliding in turns and they also protect the bottom some when beaching. V bottom boats generally don't need runners because the V itself prevents the sliding.

No spray rails planned. Yours look good to me.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jun 14, 2013 2:01 pm

by topwater

Nice work as always Capt. Build on

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jun 14, 2013 6:44 pm

by Cracker Larry

Still building on, John

Thanks!

There aren't many tools more friendly to me than a sharp block plane. I could use a grinder or sander, or power plane, but I like shaping things one stroke at a time. No noise, no dust, just nice long crisp wood shavings that feel good under your feet and don't get in your eyes and lungs. I can get it to 95% with hand planes.

a light pass with the sander finishes it up pretty quick.

I gave it a pre-coat of epoxy and filled the screw holes. This dry pine sucked up epoxy like a sponge,
The screw holes will sag and need some more filler too. The wood will need more epoxy. The goal was to get it glassed today but did not achieve it. Too hot. Went swimming, made drinks...Will finish them tomorrow

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jun 14, 2013 7:44 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:
a light pass with the sander finishes it up pretty quick.

I saw you do that before, you are an artist with that little block plane

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jun 15, 2013 4:33 am

by bernd1

Hi Larry,

nice work. One question, before you glassed the bottom. You wrote that you first gave a coat of epoxy on the whole hull. After you layed the glass dry onto the hull and then you glassed it from transom to bow.

Had you light sanded the hull before you layed the glass? I always thought that it is better to coat the wood and let the wood to soak in the epoxy an then work wet on wet for a better bond.

In this case you have a mechanical bond - or i'am right that the reason for these steps is the big bottom and easier working ?

Then I glassed my GF16 bottom I first gave a coat of epoxy let it soak in and then layed the glass into the wet surface after soaking into the wood.

But I recognized that it is much more difficult to lay the glass onto a wet surface - the thing slides everythere and if you have the wrong position it is a tragedy to move it to the right place.
The other thing ist time - if you do it like I did you have to work very fast and with 2 people to get no heartattack.

Please let me know -thanks.

Bye
Bernd

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jun 15, 2013 7:55 am

by Cracker Larry

Hey Bernd, how are things in Germany? Good to hear from you!

One question, before you glassed the bottom. You wrote that you first gave a coat of epoxy on the whole hull. After you layed the glass dry onto the hull and then you glassed it from transom to bow.

Had you light sanded the hull before you layed the glass?

Yes, light sanding then a soap and water wash. It would be almost impossible to position the cloth on top of wet epoxy.

or i'am right that the reason for these steps is the big bottom and easier working ?

Yes, big bottom, one person, very hot weather....easier working.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jun 15, 2013 3:27 pm

by bernd1

Hi Larry,

thanks for the reply - in the South of Germany there I live it is hot outside. But until yet we had rain, rain and rain again and it was very cold outside. The worst weather I can imagine. Normaly we have warm weather in May and sometimes in April but as said before not this year.

A small river- there I normaly catch trouts - became to a big river and overflowed the whole valley. Just in one hour from a little river to a monster river. It took 2hours and a lot of things were damaged.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=caa0b1Mcalk

Well, others in the East of Germany have more trouble - a bigger tradegy as you had in New Orleans years ago.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VLs5dx9ALfE

....the water is still there...since 3 weeks.

The main highway from Germany to Austria was closed because the street is under water.

Bye
Bernd

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jun 15, 2013 3:50 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks for the reply - in the South of Germany there I live it is hot outside. But until yet we had rain, rain and rain again and it was very cold outside. The worst weather I can imagine. Normaly we have warm weather in May and sometimes in April but as said before not this year.

That sounds exactly like it's been here this spring. More rain than in 10 years and much cooler. Not now though, it's finally hot!

Building on... dry fit tape to runners

Wet it out..

Taking a break for Father's Day. My son and I are going fishing. Happy Father's Day to all the Dad's. Anybody can be a father. It takes more to be a Dad. Teach the children well... and let them teach you. What goes around comes around

Here's to the Dad's, Crosby Stills... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ztVaqZajq-I

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jun 17, 2013 6:27 pm

by Cracker Larry

Time to do some more sanding, boat building is all about the sanding

Feathered out the tape edges on the runners, then sanded the runners by hand. Didn't want to cut through them with the R/O. At this point I sand anything with curves and edges by hand, it's too easy to sand through the cloth in those places.

Then sanded the entire thing in preparation for fairing. I had 2 tasks to complete before fairing the bottom and sides. One is to fill the transom/bottom and chine joints back to a sharp edge, one was to sand the big girl in her entirety. She has a large entirety

I figured sanding it was the worse chore by far, so I tackled it first. Always best to get the worst over with first IMO

Sand it until the cross hatch shows, it took most of the day.

And then washed her again, and everything else around it, I don't like sanding dust or dirty work spaces.

Made a drink, dip in the pool, in a thunderstorm, what the heck

Tomorrow we'll build some molds and make those bottom joints sharp again.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jun 17, 2013 6:48 pm

by AtTheBrink

That is a bunch of boat to sand. Looks great. Are you sharpening all the chine edges or just the back few feet?

I got the bugs worked out with my picture posting, thanks for the prodding!

I posted up a few new pictures of the deck pieces cut and in place.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jun 17, 2013 9:24 pm

by Rogerdog

Was it fishing or catching with Lil' Cracker?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jun 18, 2013 10:16 am

by Cracker Larry

Are you sharpening all the chine edges or just the back few feet?

Just the rear 6 or 8 feet, the part that's in the water when planing.

Was it fishing or catching with Lil' Cracker?

Catching

We had geared up for inshore trout and redfishing, but when we launched the boat in Port Royal it was slick as glass. No Excuse and Cracker Junior both wanted to head for the ocean instead of the creeks. So we made a phone call to change our float plan and let her stretch her legs. I always let someone know where I'm going to be and when I expect to return. We ran out about 25 miles off Hilton Head to a wreck in 90'. Cobia were all over the surface and there we were with light trout rods and no live bait. No gaff either

Dropped some gulp jigs down to the bottom and started reeling in black sea bass as fast as we could catch them.

Rigged a small blackfish on the heaviest rod we had and tossed it to a cobia, who instantly suck it up and took off for Florida. Chased it around for half an hour and finally got it to the boat, or got the boat to it, and released it. Then went back to the wreck and did it 5 more times. Released 4 fish and lost 2. Looked to be between 30 and 50 pounds. Good fish for trout rods

Didn't have a big enough cooler or enough ice to keep any.

Wore out from the cobia, we went back to jigging and put our limit of 10 big sea bass in the box and released about 100 small ones, along with some assorted grunts and porgies. The ocean was still slick as a pond and we considered running out another 20 miles for some dolphin and wahoo, but had no heavy tackle with us, no trolling gear, no EPIRB and we were out of cell phone range to change my float plan again. Dang it was pretty out there and the dolphin, wahoo, and billfish bite was going strong on the radio 20 miles away, but discretion won out over desire. We don't live to get gray hair by being stupid, and fishing an 18' boat 50 miles out without proper equipment and safety gear is stupid, especially when you know better

Great ride home, 30 kt's all the way with an easy following sea, great day on the water with my son. Then he grilled us steaks for supper while I cleaned fish. Life is good today...

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jun 18, 2013 3:02 pm

by AtTheBrink

What an awesome fathers day!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jun 18, 2013 3:11 pm

by tech_support

We ran out about 25 miles off Hilton Head to a wreck in 90'.

eagles nest

Great ride home, 30 kt's all the way with an easy following sea, great day on the water with my son. Then he grilled us steaks for supper while I cleaned fish. Life is good today...

Heck of a father day

Cant wait until mine are big enough to go.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jun 18, 2013 7:27 pm

by Cracker Larry

eagles nest

Betsy Ross http://www.southcarolinasportsman.com/d ... hp?id=1148

The amberjack were thick too, I threatened Cracker Jr. with his life not to hook one up on my good trout rods

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jun 18, 2013 7:50 pm

by Cracker Larry

Cant wait until mine are big enough to go.

They don't have to be real big. Kids are tough, I've been taking mine since he was a little guy. I used to stuff his little butt in a bucket to keep him out of trouble, and he was happy . He could probably stuff me in the bucket today

They sleep real good after a day on the water

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jun 18, 2013 9:06 pm

by AtTheBrink

Love those pictures!

They are tough little buggers, we have stuffed them under the center console during a thunderstorm.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jun 18, 2013 9:10 pm

by Cracker Larry

Made the dam/ mold to sharpen the transom and chine edges. Used cardboard for the molds, covered the inside with plastic packing tape and taped it tight to the outside with duct tape.

Dog helped.

Then made a mix of epoxy, wood flour, milled glass and silica. 3 mixes actually to fill the whole thing. 6 ounces mixed epoxy, 1/2 cup wood flour, 1/2 cup milled glass, 1/2 cup silica per mix. Loose enough to barely pour, stiff enough not to run. Hard to tell from the pictures

I reckon we'll see tomorrow when we pull the tape

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jun 18, 2013 11:28 pm

by Rogerdog

Sounds like you guys had fun. We spent Sunday at Fripp, and it was gorgeous. I'm looking forward to having an 18 footer of my own this time next year.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jun 19, 2013 9:21 am

by garym

Looking Great. What's the purpose of squaring off the chine? I neglected to do that little step

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jun 19, 2013 9:27 am

by Prarie Dog

Looking good Larry

Hope that epoxy didn't kick while your dawg was laying in it.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jun 19, 2013 10:34 am

by AtTheBrink

garym wrote:Looking Great. What's the purpose of squaring off the chine? I neglected to do that little step

Squaring off the chine and transom edges allows for cleaner water flow, reducing drag. Rounded edges allow water to roll up the transom and it creates a little bit of suction. Please correct me if I am wrong

. It makes for a more efficent hull.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jun 19, 2013 10:36 am

by Cracker Larry

We spent Sunday at Fripp, and it was gorgeous. I'm looking forward to having an 18 footer of my own this time next year.

Fripp Is. is a beautiful place

I'm thinkin' you might have an 18 footer of your own by about Thanksgiving

Thanks Gary, Mike answered your chine question just fine

Hope that epoxy didn't kick while your dawg was laying in it.

Thanks Paul, that's epoxy from projects past. Soon I will have a total epoxy floor

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jun 19, 2013 12:14 pm

by ks8

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jun 19, 2013 7:54 pm

by Cracker Larry

Pulling off a mold is a lot like opening a present. You never know what you're going to get

This one worked out pretty well. Had a few minor runs, and a few minor low spots, but all in all, not bad.

Not sure where the yellow came from, it's in the pictures but not on the boat

I poured it a little high so I could trim it down flat. Most people would probably grab a grinder or sander to shape it up, but again the block plane is my favorite tool for the job. I'd rather make shavings than dust. Much more user friendly

I can get it 95% perfect with the plane and listen to the radio, then only a little dust to make it 100%. Didn't use the sander today, just the plane. It shaves fiberglass just like it does wood. These shavings are pure epoxy and filler...

Had a few low spots that needs a little more filling, so taped them up for mini-molds and filled them with the same structural mix. Fairing compound would have filled them easy, but being right on the chine I want a filler tougher than that. Don't want it chipping out the first time we hit a rock.

Good to go. Tomorrow I'll clean up these edges and the fairing will commence. The part we all want behind us

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jun 19, 2013 11:18 pm

by ks8

Much wisdom in using the block plane. Just sanding the bottom of a cv16 (certainly smaller than the gf18) , made lots of dust , and clogged the new vac filter. And that was sanding with the vacuum hose right next to the business at hand. This was before any fairing compound was used.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jun 21, 2013 4:57 pm

by Cracker Larry

Not much progress to report. Mrs. Cracker has been on a home improvement vacation for the last week and kept me busy

I did finish up the chine and transom edges, they came out nice, and finished up all the honey-dos I think. Bought a new pressure washer. Pressure washed the house, did some painting, re-planted the garden again, been in too many stores, home centers, garden shops, nurseries, thrift and antique shops, ate too much sushi...

I think I'm done. Back to the boat tomorrow.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jun 22, 2013 8:12 pm

by Cracker Larry

I did finish up the chine and transom edges, they came out nice

Cleaned them up with the sander, and made them fair with the long board. Very pleased with them

We started spreading fairing compound this morning at the transom at about 1000, finished at the bow 8 hours, 72 ounces of epoxy and a whole pound of blended filler later

Won't say how much rum that took

The first coat I use is just to primarily fill the weave of the cloth, pinholes and the worst of the low spots. I mix it loose, 12 ounces of epoxy, 2 cups of blended filler per batch. As soon as it's mixed I dump it out on the boat and work with it from there with a 12" drywall knife. It's hot and the mix won't last 5 minutes in the cup. Get it out immediately and you've got about 30 minutes of working time. I like epoxy and blended fillers for the first couple of fairing coats, because I can control the consistency and cure time better, then I like to finish it with Quick Fair on the last coats.

It is a long way around this boat

It took 6 mixes of epoxy and filler from stern to bow transom..

Remember, we ain't icing a cake, we're just filling the weave. Most people use way too much filler and put it on too thick. Any extra you have to sand off, and a lot of money and work ends up on the floor. Use thin coats

It's enough work as it is without making it any worse.

Somebody was recently asking about sanding the ridges left from the spreader tool. I think Dougster recommended a scraper to take them off. Much better than sanding, but I'll use the same block plane that I've been using. It will still be green in the morning and a few swipes of the block plane will flush them right off. Then I'll have to sand it again, then fill it again, then sand it again, then fill it again, then sand it again

Hopefully by then it will look good enough for graphite and primer. If not, I'll fill it and sand it again. This is the toughest part to get past, but nothing but a thing, a week or 2 from now I might heal

A man contacted me last week and wanted me to build him a Panga 25. I thought about it for a few days and then decided to respectfully decline. I could build it, no problem, but I don't think I could sand it

I might specialize in dinghys after this project is finished

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jun 22, 2013 11:06 pm

by AtTheBrink

Top notch work Larry. The neverending sanding is the toughest part of building a boat. I have been going around and around my little FS18 with quikfair filling every imperfection I see, waiting a couple hours and sanding, around again, wait, sand.... on and on and on... by the time pai nt shows up I should be done, maybe

. I am sure my next one will be easier...

I am really enjoying watching this one come together. I can understand why you declined the big panga. I hope to build a big boat one day. Something like a LB26, but it would be for me. I wouldn't want to do it for someone else, they could afford to pay me to do that much sanding!

Keep at it!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 23, 2013 6:33 am

by Knottybuoyz

Cracker Larry wrote:I could build it, no problem, but I don't think I could sand it I might specialize in dinghys after this project is finished

You and me both brother!

Sand on Dusty Cracker!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 23, 2013 8:58 am

by topwater

Nice work Larry and great advice . There is probably more surface area on the GF than the panga

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jun 24, 2013 2:01 pm

by antoniekruger

Hi Larry, great work. Very neat indeed

.
I'm jumping the gun....what do you mean prep for graphite - are you putting on a last layer of carbon fibre woven?

I want to do a layer of carbon on my CS23's bottom as a final but see a few issues with a good finish around the strakes. I'll keep a keen eye on your progress. Thanks for the great tutorials and advice.

I envy your working environment - seems very peaceful.

To answer your question - indeed, a man is as old as the woman he feels.

Keep up the good work.
Antonie

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jun 24, 2013 4:03 pm

by AtTheBrink

antoniekruger wrote:
To answer your question - indeed, a man is as old as the woman he feels.

Keep up the good work.

All right! I guess I am 26 again!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jun 24, 2013 4:48 pm

by Cracker Larry

Appreciate the comments, all

Sand on Dusty Cracker!

Sanding on, Rick

I'm a dusty Cracker for sure!

The sander died again just before I did, so it was probably a good thing

Made a trip to Lowes and got another base pad for it this morning. Replacement pad number 3. Back in the sanding business again and shopping for a larger one now. This 5" sander against a 1/2 acre of boat makes me feel like I'm peeing in the ocean to make it rise

antoniekruger wrote:
To answer your question - indeed, a man is as old as the woman he feels.

Keep up the good work.

All right! I guess I am 26 again!

Lucky you. That makes me 57

I'm jumping the gun....what do you mean prep for graphite - are you putting on a last layer of carbon fibre woven?

Thanks, Antonie. No, not carbon fiber cloth, just mixing graphite powder with epoxy for the final coats on the bottom. It has to be fair before applying it, just like paint, or it will show every imperfection.

I envy your working environment - seems very peaceful.

Yes it is, and more peaceful today since Mrs. Crackers vacation is over and she went back to work. Just me, dog and the swamp critters again

There is probably more surface area on the GF than the panga

You might be right, John! I helped a fellow glass a Panga 20 a couple of years ago and I'm sure it was smaller than this. But a Panga 25, maybe not. I was scared. A man has to know his limitation. I might take up model boat building after this one

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jun 25, 2013 11:48 am

by Cracker Larry

Still sanding

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jun 25, 2013 2:28 pm

by Knottybuoyz

Cracker Larry wrote:Still sanding

Rum at the ready I suppose?

I found, being so big, that by the time I go round once I have to do it all over again because it ain't good 'nuff. Similar experience Mr. Cracker?

How do you tell when 'nuff is 'nuff?

I might try your garden hose thing to see if that helps ID spots needing more sanding.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jun 25, 2013 2:42 pm

by antoniekruger

Hi Larry - here's an anthem for your current work - I'm still sanding - by Elton....or is that standing..
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZHwVBirqD2s
Bet you'll be humming this tomorrow whilst fairing

Keep it up
Antonie

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jun 25, 2013 5:55 pm

by Cracker Larry

Rum at the ready I suppose?

Why hell yeah

How else could you get through this

I found, being so big, that by the time I go round once I have to do it all over again because it ain't good 'nuff. Similar experience Mr. Cracker?

Exactly. It takes at least 3 trips around for me, then some more touch ups to get it right. Try the water hose, it will tell you when it's right. Plus it gets rid of the dust. I used it again today.

How do you tell when 'nuff is 'nuff?

When you finally can't stand it any dang more. Then walk away for a few days, go fishing, take a break, and come back rested and do it one more time

Then it's nuff

Hi Larry - here's an anthem for your current work - I'm still sanding - by Elton....or is that standing..

Still standing, still sanding, right now it's about the same thing, I'm barely standing

Thanks for that. I probably will hum right along tomorrow. Elton John is one strange individual, but it's hard not to like the music

Round 1 of fairing is finally complete. It took 2 days to sand around it once. The next round will be with a larger sander

Washed it off again with the hose, and everything else around it. Somebody was asking about cleaning with alcohol between fairing coats. You could, but it would take 10 gallons to clean this boat. At about $8 a quart that would get expensive in a hurry! Water and a scrub brush is all you need.

Ready for round 2, if we're still on the green side of the grass tomorrow

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jun 25, 2013 10:29 pm

by willg

CL, what grits do you use against the glass, then against the first weave fill you just did, the second fill, etc. until you're ready for fairing compound?

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jun 26, 2013 3:19 am

by stickystuff

If you are up for a ride I have enough sandpaper, disc pads, inline paper to last you for the rest of your boat building yrs. Lots of inline paper for inline sanders. I can't do boat building ay more for medical reasons

. I will call you after 7;00 in the evening and let you know what I have.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jun 26, 2013 9:36 am

by Cracker Larry

what grits do you use against the glass, then against the first weave fill you just did, the second fill, etc. until you're ready for fairing compound?

Will, I use 50 grit for the initial sanding, knocking down the binder threads and feathering the tape edges. 50 grit again for the first round of fairing. 80 for the second round. 120 for the final round before primer.

If you are up for a ride I have enough sandpaper, disc pads, inline paper to last you for the rest of your boat building yrs.

Thanks Ken! The way I feel this morning it might not take many to last that long

I'm going to be making a trip down to Aripeka Angler's in a few weeks and can make a side trip to Crystal River.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jun 26, 2013 5:22 pm

by willg

Thanks again, CL. I know you get told all the time how your instructions are so helpful - I'll just say it again.

Regarding the fairing mix you're using at this point, I read that you're using 12 oz epoxy and 2 c. blended filler. Is this the same blend you used for building up the hull edges, only thinner, or something else? For that blend it was 6 ox epoxy and 1/2 c. each of flour/milled glass and silica.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jun 26, 2013 6:15 pm

by ks8

Good question. Is it the blended filler sold here at Bateau?

With all the fairing I did, I should have formulated a standard mix at some point, like you did, to make the next batches less quesswork. Always want to be learning. I added blend until the epoxy/blend mix felt right, just shy of becoming too dry, but wet enough to spread smoothly without being flakey dry, or runny wet. The more the batch gets stuffed with filler (without getting too dry), the easier it was for me to sand. As it was, every day was a different amount, no standard formula, or different temps, or different degree of vertical to work with. Next project though, I like this idea of a standard recipe. It can always be tweaked if using slow hardener (so there is working time), by mixing and adding a micromix of additional epoxy, if it is a little too dry a batch. The syringes are always ready now. Did that more than once!

I will certainly try your recipe for the next fairing job.

So.... was it the *bag-o-* fairing blend sold here that you used in your recipe?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jun 27, 2013 9:57 am

by Cracker Larry

Yes, it's the blended filler sold here at Bateau. The purple powder stuff.

Don't rely on my recipe too closely. Every day is different and a few degrees difference in temperature will take a different ratio for the same consistency. 95 degrees here this week.

The first coat is primarily for filling the weave of the cloth, so I mix it loose enough to flow a little bit, like thick syrup. Joel refers to it as a slurry. The second coat I will mix almost twice as thick, about like mayonnaise, not quite peanut butter. This will be for building up the low spots. For the third and final coats I will switch to Quick Fair. It give the best finish results.

Took the day off yesterday to let my muscles rest a little. Round 2 starts momentarily

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jun 27, 2013 1:32 pm

by ks8

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jun 27, 2013 7:49 pm

by stickystuff

For those that don't know, the purple powder stuff used for fareing is actually tiny glass beads.They call it fareing compound. To me no matter what you use for fareing compound it's all a pain in the ASS TO SAND. SOME MORE THAN OTHERS. i BOUGHT SOME FAREING COMPOUND FROM FIBERGLASS COATINGS IN sT. pETERSBERG fL. AND IT WAS SOME OF THE HARDEST STUFF TO SAND EVER. fOR THE MNEY USE THE GLASS BEADS (PURPLE) Oops didn't realize I hit the frikin caps lock key. sorry bout that.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jun 28, 2013 9:09 am

by Cracker Larry

To me no matter what you use for fareing compound it's all a pain in the ASS TO SAND. SOME MORE THAN OTHERS.

Amen to that! It's a PITA to mix and spread in this quantity too

My mixing and spreading muscles are competing with my sanding muscles for which will give out first.

Still fairing. Round 2 almost complete

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jun 28, 2013 11:50 am

by Knottybuoyz

Cracker Larry wrote:
To me no matter what you use for fareing compound it's all a pain in the ASS TO SAND. SOME MORE THAN OTHERS.
Amen to that! It's a PITA to mix and spread in this quantity too My mixing and spreading muscles are competing with my sanding muscles for which will give out first.

Still fairing. Round 2 almost complete

I found the Quickfair wasn't to bad to sand. The longboard made quick work of it.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jun 28, 2013 1:39 pm

by Cracker Larry

Yeah, Quick Fair is easier to mix, easier to spread and easier to sand. Switched to QF this morning on the sides, for the start of round 3. The bottom still needs sanding from round 2. Coming along.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jun 28, 2013 8:01 pm

by Cracker Larry

Whew

Round 3 spread on all sides. Just 2 on the bottom so far. Tomorrow will be another sanding day. I think it was the hottest day on Earth in the last 100 years today. Felt like it here anyway. Better than Death Valley and 130F I reckon

I'm still s(t)anding.... and this too shall pass

The masking tape is there because the rub rails still need to be glued on. We don't want to glue over fairing compound. My client wants to try a 3 1/2" wide rub rail, chunky to match the boat. Bright finished. I think it will look good, if I can bend a 3 1/2" rub rail around it. I think I can

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jun 28, 2013 8:49 pm

by Rogerdog

You are a machine.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jun 29, 2013 7:40 am

by antoniekruger

Yeah, I feel ya - I just finished round 2 on the sides of my CS23(I'll post some pics tomorrow). Layer 1 going on tomorrow on the bottom and finally the transom. I have to park my sander and torture board now since the governments list(chores and home repairs-painting, scraping ect) needs attention before I experience sanctions.

Larry, why did you not start fairing with quickfair - why the 2 hard layers first? I just used quickfair(something similar). Although it is not soft, it is not as hard as cured resin and it has a peanut butter/mayo consistency. I would say that I sand off around 50 to 80% of the fairing compound I put on - I use a 8" blade and the backside of a 20" saw blade to put it on.

Tomorrow another sanding day here as well. Good luck Mr. Cracker.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jun 29, 2013 7:43 am

by antoniekruger

What wood do you intend to use for the rubrail? Ply or other

I'll leave you now, let me go paint a wall

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jun 29, 2013 9:39 am

by Cracker Larry

You are a machine.

A creaky, squeaky, groaning machine, overdue for a million mile service

Larry, why did you not start fairing with quickfair - why the 2 hard layers first?

They are not really hard layers, just harder than Quick Fair. Much softer than wood flour.

As I said earlier, using the blended filler first allows me to adjust the consistency of the mix. I like to start with a thin mix and gradually get thicker. The QF is what it is and you can't mix it loose.

Also with blended fillers I have a choice of hardener speeds. With the temps near 100 I can use a slow hardener and get 30 minutes of working time, and keep a wet edge going as I mix and apply it. The QF must be made with a fast hardener, it's working time is only about 10 minutes in this heat and it's dry to touch in 30 minutes. By the time I get another batch mixed and ready to spread, I've lost the wet edge from the previous. Have to use very small batches and work fast.

There was a time when mixing your own was a bit less expensive too, but I don't think it is any more. I've used 2 pounds of filler and over a gallon of epoxy here, so the cost is probably a wash.

Another reason is, we bought the fiberlass/epoxy kit which included 2 pounds of the fairing mix. No need to waste it.

Tomorrow another sanding day here as well. Good luck Mr. Cracker.

Good luck to you too

May we live through the day and have the strength to lift a cup at the end of it

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jun 29, 2013 9:42 am

by Cracker Larry

What wood do you intend to use for the rubrail? Ply or other

Yes, plywood. The original plan was Ipe, but after trying to work that stuff we came to our senses

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jun 29, 2013 11:30 am

by fishin'

Haha good decision about the Ipe. It's beautiful, but hard as a rock! Boats looking good.

Peter

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jun 29, 2013 6:08 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Peter. That wood is so hard that it would probably shatter like glass if you tried to bend it very much. Plus it's heavier than concrete, and has the same fireproof rating. Not tool friendly at all.

I'm still sanding

Going to be sanding tomorrow also. I can't sand it all around in one day. Got about 2/3 of the way around today. I can still lift a cup though, barely

Got both transoms, one side and about half the bottom sanded. Had to quit, cool off, get in the pool, feed the neighbors 30 hunting hounds, and give it a rest

It's looking real good, but not good enough to suit me yet. Going to have to do it again, after I'm finished doing it this time

I could quit after this round and get a pretty good finish, or spend a couple of days more and get a better finish. Guess what I'm going to do

Make another drink, that's what I'm going to do right now, and then do it again

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jun 29, 2013 6:52 pm

by AtTheBrink

Nice to see you going the extra mile to turn out an exceptional product. I am trying real hard to keep up with that standard but I am running low on sanding discs

Keep on sanding Dusty Cracker, keep on sanding...

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 30, 2013 7:14 am

by Cracker Larry

Just have to buy more disks, Mike

If I were building this for me I would probably call it good enough, and it probably is. Since it's for someone else, it isn't good enough until it's as good as I can possibly make it. I can hear my dead Daddy saying, "Boy, there ain't no excuse for not doing your damn best...

Getting coffeed up now, soon to be dusty again

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 30, 2013 11:53 am

by wildbill

Look's like your gonna give the orange sander a try after the yellow one spun it's pad. Any early review's ? I have'nt been able to kill my blue one yet, I'm sure I have about a honest hundred hours or so now.

looking good cracker machine

bill

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 30, 2013 5:52 pm

by ks8

For a hefty rubrail, I find Ipe is much more agreeable as a 1/8 inch laminate. The eye won't be able to tell the difference, once it is on the boat. You could finish off the plywood laminates with it.

It is a little painful turning so much Ipe into dust when ripping it through the table saw (another full laminate's thickness worth of wood), but you can save the dust for the laminating wood flour.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 30, 2013 7:01 pm

by glossieblack

"If I were building this for me I would probably call it good enough, and it probably is". CL having got to this point, and given your commitment to doing as good a job as possible, what are the main 'tell tale' signs that point to more fairing? I'm asking because I'll fairing my little nester rowboat build soon. Thanks.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 30, 2013 7:18 pm

by Cracker Larry

Look's like your gonna give the orange sander a try after the yellow one spun it's pad. Any early review's ?

Fixed the yellow one

Waiting a few days of working with the orange one before reviews are in, but it's looking very favorable so far

This new 6" Rigid is one go getting, bad azz SOB ! And it's got turbo mode

Better hold on with both hands when you flip that switch

And a 90 day no questions asked refund, and lifetime warranty. So I'm going to make it pay for itself in 90 days, and if it doesn't, I'll try another one

I'm sure I have about a honest hundred hours or so now.

I've put that many on my Dewalt in the last 3 weeks, and it's been doing it for 5 years

It has a couple thousand hours at least.

Finally finished sanding this round. Used a lot of the long board this time. The sanders smooth, but the long boards fair. I won't need a gym this month.

Washed it all off again with the hose. Looking much better now. One more round should get it ready for primer. If I can do it 3 times, I can do it 4

It is a little painful turning so much Ipe into dust when ripping it through the table saw (another full laminate's thickness worth of wood), but you can save the dust for the laminating wood flour.

Have you ever tried running Ipe through your table saw? What's painful is that it takes about 1- $40 blade per cut

Throws sparks and noxious dust everywhere. Need some serious tools to mill this wood. If we could find someone to rip us some into 1/8 X 3 1/2 for a reasonable price , then maybe, but I can't rip it with my tools. Would really hate to pay big $ to have it ripped and then find out that it won't bend either. If my client wants to try it, I'm willing, but don't want him to spend $500 on making wood scraps. I'm easy

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 30, 2013 7:31 pm

by ks8

Yep, there's that to consider.

And then sanding off the blade burn marks. That was fun.

And I was ripping the easy shorter dimension. But I did do some two pass 5 inch rips too, a very different sort of adventure. Really a two man job... made the doug fir rips seem like cake. This poor ol blade has put in its time, and is ready for the wall clock I think.

The GF sure is looking real close for primer.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 30, 2013 8:28 pm

by Cracker Larry

You must have a lot better table saw than I do, if you can rip Ipe with it

having got to this point, and given your commitment to doing as good a job as possible, what are the main 'tell tale' signs that point to more fairing? I'm asking because I'll fairing my little nester rowboat build soon.

I'll take a few pictures in the morning and try to explain it better.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 30, 2013 11:25 pm

by snookiehunter

All right. I see now, that I did it all wrong! I only did two passes. Then primer. Then one more pass, and primer again. Oh well, there's always next time. And, I hate my long boards! My (orange) RO isn't feeling well, either. I think the bearings have spun.
Your boat's looking very good. I'm waiting patiently for your fairing pictures tomorrow.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 01, 2013 4:23 pm

by Cracker Larry

Your boat's looking very good. I'm waiting patiently for your fairing pictures tomorrow.

Thanks! Just for you I brought out the good camera and took some pictures of that. I don't do it often, the cell phone is much easier to upload from

These are after 3 rounds of applying filler and sanding. The camera is on macro mode and focused close in most pictures.

See the shiny spots in this weave? Shiny spots are low and need filling. If we sanded down to them, we would remove too much cloth, Need the cloth! You can't even feel these with your finger, but if you paint over it, it will look like you painted over a burlap sack. A few coats of high build primer would probably fix it. I'd rather spot fair it.

Same here in the weave and on the tape edge, can't sand the tape down, have to fill it. Shiny spots are low.

These are tiny pinholes, filled with sanding dust. They would probably show through the primer. Have to blow or wash the dust out and fill them.

Low spot along chine tape. Again, you can't even feel it, but glossy paint will make it show. Primer would fill it, eventually. So will Quick Fair

Same here. Everything should be the same dusty dull uniform look. No shiny spots. Primer would fill these too.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 01, 2013 4:28 pm

by Cracker Larry

I submitted before I was finished. Sort of like fairing

Tiny divot and some more pin holes on this tape edge. Need to fill that, primer won't fix that hole. Always resist the urge to fix a divot by tilting the sander and working that spot. You'll just make a deeper divot. Fill it now

This is how it should look. No shiny spots, no holes, everything the same dull look...

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 01, 2013 5:26 pm

by robbiro

Larry,
Many thanks for that last teaching moment. I now understand what you have been talking about all these years and was too dense to understand without seeing it. I tend toward being a visual learner. I now understand pin hole. I thought that it was very small and would have to look very close to see. Close, but not with a magnifying glass!!! Once again, you teach so well and give us something to work toward with our builds.

Keep on TEACHING!!

Robbie

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 01, 2013 5:46 pm

by jorgepease

Second that, I will be fairing soon, good to see what it should look like!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 01, 2013 5:49 pm

by Cracker Larry

Keep on TEACHING!!

Thanks Robbie, they say that those who can, do, and those who can't, teach. Today, I couldn't do, might as well teach

Didn't want to pick up a sander, didn't want to mix and spread fairing, didn't want to do much of anything that involved muscle movement

It was time to walk away from it for a day or 2

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 01, 2013 5:54 pm

by garym

Thanks for taking the time to post daily updates and explaining what you're doing.
This all would of come in real handy 9 months ago. I'm about about 85.87234% sure my boat wont leak

Badda Bing

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 01, 2013 5:55 pm

by garym

Thanks for taking the time to post daily updates and explaining what you're doing.
This all would of come in real handy 9 months ago. I'm about about 85.87234% sure my boat wont leak

Badda Bing

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 01, 2013 6:27 pm

by glossieblack

Thanks CL. Hadn't realised that the deveil was so much in the detail.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 01, 2013 10:08 pm

by snookiehunter

Yes, thanks for taking the time to show the far less experienced. A good picture is worth so many words.
Try and fill with primer is exactly what I did. I expected too much from the high build primer, and was trying to save the quickfair. "Ah, the primer'll fill it", I thought. Nope.
So tell us this, when do you put down the long board, and pick up the ro?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 01, 2013 11:29 pm

by robbiro

Larry,
In my experience, the best teachers are those who can do it and enjoy showing others that it can be done by their own two little grubby hands. Whether these teachers were farmers, musicians, boat builders, etc. they had a passion for showing others and seeing the students results and the interest they stirred in them.
I have really enjoyed your builds and seeing how you sequence things. In time I will learn some of those skills

Robbie

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 02, 2013 10:38 am

by Cracker Larry

I appreciate that Robbie. I've always liked to teach. Over the years I've taught scuba diving, jungle survival, sailing, windsurfing, skydiving, flying, seamanship, boat handling, inshore and offshore fishing... might as well add boat building now that I'm learning how

Give a man a fish and he eats for a day, teach a man to fish and he eats for life

So tell us this, when do you put down the long board, and pick up the ro?

When my arms are dead

The RO is for smoothing, the long board is for fairing. You can't fair a curved hull with a flat base sander. Picture trying to sand a beach ball with a flat sander. The sander only makes contact in one spot, and as soon as you turn it on you will sand a flat spot on the ball. If you tried to sand the whole thing it would just be a series of many flat spots. You might make it all smooth to the touch, but if you look along the surface there would be a series of flat spots.

Same with a boat hull. On a curved surface the RO sander is only in contact with one point of the hull, and you will end up turning a nice curve into a series of flat spots. You can't feel them, but put on some shiny paint and sight down the hull and you will see every ripple you created.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 02, 2013 10:54 am

by jacquesmm

Good explanation.
I often say that you first sand for shape (you sculpt), with the long board and when the shape is perfect, you sand for smoothness.
During the shaping part (the fairing), you don't use a fine grit, that comes later.
Once the shape is there, all low and high spots gone you can switch to the RO.
Note that I write can, not should.
It is up to you.
It's easy to dig down too deep with the electric tools and some prefer to play it safe and use fine grit on the fairing board.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 02, 2013 11:03 am

by Cracker Larry

I expected too much from the high build primer, and was trying to save the quickfair. "Ah, the primer'll fill it",

What are you saving it for? That's what it's for

Experience has taught me what the primer will and won't cover. My first boats didn't look so great either. It takes practice. As a general rule, if you can see any imperfections you should fill them again before priming. It's a lot more reliable method than hoping the primer will cover it, then finding out after the finish coat is on that it didn't. Hope is never a good plan, in my experience.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 03, 2013 1:51 pm

by Cracker Larry

We put the 4th round of fairing on today, in the pouring rain. At least it was cool, meaning slightly under 90

Went over both transoms again completely, and spot faired the sides and bottom in the trouble spots. The plan is to sand it one more time in the morning and put on a seal coat of epoxy. Then a coat of primer Friday, and another one Saturday. Let that cure a couple of days, then graphite. Should be ready to flip it for the last time by the end of next week. We'll have to see how that plan works out

Dang, I haven't seen this much rain in 20 years! It has rained almost every day for 4 months. We got 24" in June alone

It's rained almost 3" today and it's still pouring.

On the plus side, it's a lot better than forest fires

At least we have a boat and can swim. Half the country seems to be burning and the other half flooding. I think the Master is angry with us. Don't really blame Him

Building on anyway

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 03, 2013 3:42 pm

by gstanfield

We managed to get a full 1.3" in June, which is about half our "normal average"

Keep building, I can't wait to see this GF in person next month

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 03, 2013 4:01 pm

by Cracker Larry

Sure hope it quits raining before you get here, otherwise I'll pick you up in the boat, an we can take your girls gator watching in the front yard

Still fairing.

Just fixing minor problem spots now. The worst is over

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 03, 2013 5:39 pm

by Hope2float

Larry great work as always. I wish I had that visual of the fairing process before fairing mine. I did reach out to you for some advice time to time and you were always right there with the guidance. You are a natural to show people the way. You sure as hell can bang out a boat quick like. I saw the pic of the rain down there, weather here is not much better. It rains about every two hours here and every night for a month. The weather pattern has taken the wind out of my sails. Multiple wakes for family and friends, family functions and crazy work schedule lead me to loose my mojo. The July fourth launch that I hoped for is now just a nice notion. I will try to get back on the horse, but for now I feel defeated.
Build-On
Dave

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 03, 2013 9:35 pm

by gstanfield

We had a quick thunderstorm hit here today, rained hard for about 10 minutes, dropped 0.09" in my rain guage which brings the total for the last 20 days up to 0.09"

I'm watching my grass and trees wither up while my family in Lagrange is dealing with floods washing away their yard. Oh well, you can't change it so why complain.

Larry, is the spot fairing in that pic done with QF or what? It looks clear like neat epoxy

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jul 04, 2013 8:53 am

by Cracker Larry

Multiple wakes for family and friends, family functions and crazy work schedule lead me to loose my mojo.

Sorry to hear that, Dave

Jump back on the horse and your mojo will return. You are getting real close now.

is the spot fairing in that pic done with QF or what? It looks clear like neat epoxy

It's QF, spread very thin with a lot of pressure.

We had a quick thunderstorm hit here today, rained hard for about 10 minutes, dropped 0.09" in my rain guage which brings the total for the last 20 days up to 0.09"

3 more inches for us

Looking like it will be drier today, which means it will be hot too.

About time for my morning workout with the long board again

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jul 04, 2013 9:23 am

by AtTheBrink

Happy Independence Day

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jul 04, 2013 11:32 am

by ks8

AtTheBrink wrote:Happy Independence Day

Yes... and it is no small thing.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jul 04, 2013 2:23 pm

by KeeperOfThePuros

Indeed....God Bless The United States Of America.......BOOM-BA-BOOM BOOM-BLAM-HISSSSS-BA-BOOM!!!!! (fireworks)

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jul 04, 2013 5:00 pm

by AtTheBrink

KeeperOfThePuros wrote:Indeed....God Bless The United States Of America.......BOOM-BA-BOOM BOOM-BLAM-HISSSSS-BA-BOOM!!!!! (fireworks)

Ooooohhhh! AAAAAhhhhh!!!!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jul 04, 2013 8:43 pm

by Cracker Larry

Happy Independence Day

Thanks and the same to all

I celebrated my independence by sanding this boat again, independently

Thanks for posting that link, Karl

Perfect. I hope everybody reads it.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jul 04, 2013 9:21 pm

by Cracker Larry

Still fairing and sanding....

And washing it in between..

Ready for primer and graphite now. Primer first. Manana

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jul 04, 2013 9:36 pm

by Cracker Larry

Still raining

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jul 04, 2013 9:44 pm

by AtTheBrink

Dang Larry! You sure can fair a boat in a hurry! Looks great. Are you gonna prime the whole hull or just the sides and areas that aren't getting graphite?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jul 04, 2013 10:01 pm

by Cracker Larry

Dang Larry! You sure can fair a boat in a hurry!

In a hurry? I've been fairing this boat for 14 straight days, minus 1 for a break

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jul 04, 2013 11:26 pm

by AtTheBrink

You do in 14 days what for most of us takes months and months... But you are working on it full time... I see what ya mean.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jul 05, 2013 9:11 am

by topwater

Larry you sure have this fairing stuff down

I am amazed at how little fairing compound is left
on the hull , that's some nice work there .

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jul 05, 2013 9:20 am

by glossieblack

CL you mentined an epoxy seal coat befrore primer. After gettinbg it so fair, what do you apply the epoxy with? Thanks.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jul 05, 2013 9:51 am

by Cracker Larry

Are you gonna prime the whole hull or just the sides and areas that aren't getting graphite?

Mostly just what isn't graphite. I'll prime up to the chines, then wrap graphite over that to make a boot stripe.

I am amazed at how little fairing compound is left on the hull ,

Thanks John. The whole trick is to work neat from the start, so you don't have a lot of actual fairing to do. You can't really see the blended filler in the pictures, it's about the same color as the wood and that's what I did most of the filling with.

CL you mentined an epoxy seal coat befrore primer. After gettinbg it so fair, what do you apply the epoxy with?

I decided to skip that step, don't really need it, and I'd just have to sand it again

The bottom is getting 3 coats of epoxy/graphite and that will seal it fine, and the sides will get 3 coats of Silvertip primer. Since it's an epoxy based primer it will seal the fairing compound.

Today is the day to see how well I faired and filled

No matter how hard I try, I always miss some spots that the primer will make stand out. The great thing about the epoxy primer is you can apply more fairing right over it if necessary. I'm sure it will be.

Still raining

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jul 05, 2013 11:11 am

by Knottybuoyz

What are you doing after you finish this boat Larry?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jul 05, 2013 11:32 am

by Cracker Larry

Building another one, of course

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jul 05, 2013 1:02 pm

by Knottybuoyz

Cracker Larry wrote:Building another one, of course

I thought maybe you'd come up here to get out of the rain for awhile!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jul 05, 2013 2:21 pm

by Cracker Larry

I usually try to stay south of the Mason Dixon Line

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jul 05, 2013 6:28 pm

by Cracker Larry

It's still raining, I'm still building. Need to get it flipped quick in case we need it to evacuate

I think I can load my truck on it

First coat of primer looks good. There are only a couple of spots that need some minor attention, but nothing serious.

Another coat goes on tomorrow, depending on water levels

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jul 05, 2013 7:04 pm

by Knottybuoyz

Cracker Larry wrote:I usually try to stay south of the Mason Dixon Line

I got rum. Lots of rum!

Oh yeah, it's not raining either!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jul 07, 2013 8:36 am

by Cracker Larry

I got rum. Lots of rum!

We've been almost 12 hours without rain! Nearly a drought. Got 2 more coats of primer on yesterday, rolled one at 0700 and another at 1800. It looks real good, but of course it pointed out some pinholes I missed. I'll fill those today, then let it dry good for a couple of days before the graphite goes on.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jul 07, 2013 9:05 pm

by Cracker Larry

Santa Claus came early. Got a truck load of great stuff, including a stack of milled and planed recycled old growth cypress, and another stack of beautiful ipe

Going back to ipe after all for some rub rail and other various trim, it will bend, we tried it. Plans are subject to change

This is cypress for the inwales, sole and other trim. Really old, clear and straight grained. Beautiful wood

Santa also brought us a hydraulic steering system, and a very nice wheel, and a big Humminbird fish finder and chart plotter suitable for a 30' sportfisher

VHF radio with a hailer horn, a kick ass stereo system with 4 speakers, a dozen stainless cup holders (they must drink as much as I do), and a few more boxes of stuff. Christmas in July. I love it. Life is good today

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jul 07, 2013 11:06 pm

by AtTheBrink

That is some really cool stuff you got there Larry! And here I have been waiting a month for 2 meesly quarts of paint... Expensive Meesly paint at that! But anyway... all that stuff you got is a big clue to the way this boat is gonna be finished out. Gonna be sweet ride!!!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 08, 2013 1:30 am

by ks8

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 08, 2013 9:32 am

by Cracker Larry

Gonna be sweet ride!!!

Yep

It's going to test my carpentry skills too!

We've got a small modification to make on the bottom before I can graphite it. The fishfinder came with a transom mount transducer, which we've decided to mount inside the hull as a shoot through. Sonar doesn't shoot through plywood very well, so I need to cut out a small circle and refill it with solid glass. That will be today's project.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 08, 2013 11:16 am

by willg

Sonar doesn't shoot through plywood very well, so I need to cut out a small circle and refill it with solid glass. That will be today's project.

Looking forward to this. Does this tranducer measure temperature also? If so, what are your thoughts about shoot through temp measurements compared with through-hull/transom mounts?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 08, 2013 11:18 am

by AtTheBrink

So the sole is going to be planked cypress, bright finished? If so, that is going to be amazingly beautiful!!!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 08, 2013 12:13 pm

by Cracker Larry

Does this tranducer measure temperature also? If so, what are your thoughts about shoot through temp measurements compared with through-hull/transom mounts?

Yes. I've got the same thing on my OD18 and the temperature works surprising well. It is a little slow to respond since it takes the hull a few minutes to reach water temp but otherwise it is accurate. Not ideal if you are trying to find a tight temperature break line offshore, but this isn't an offshore boat. It makes a much cleaner install, I hate wires hanging off a transom.

This almost hurts!

Pick a spot, cut hole, bevel edges, sand off the fairing ...

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 08, 2013 12:22 pm

by Cracker Larry

Cut a backing plate and covered it with plastic. Cut the plastic away at each corner, this is for hot glue.

A drop of the hot glue on each corner, press it against the inside bottom for a few seconds and we have a mold. Had to wiggle like a snake to get in there...

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 08, 2013 12:31 pm

by ks8

Are you using low temperature or high temperature sticks in the gun? Is one easier to pop off than the other?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 08, 2013 12:35 pm

by Cracker Larry

High temp. Never tried the low.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 08, 2013 2:37 pm

by ks8

Does the high allow you to pop off that mold, when done, without necessitating a trip to the ER?

Did you put clear packing tape on the plywood so the glass/epoxy layup will not stick to it?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 08, 2013 3:00 pm

by Cracker Larry

Does the high allow you to pop off that mold, when done, without necessitating a trip to the ER?

Yes. I just put one drop in each corner. It will pop right off with a chisel.

Did you put clear packing tape on the plywood so the glass/epoxy layup will not stick to it?

No, I was out of packing tape. Wrapped it in drop cloth plastic.

Cut a bunch of filler pieces..

Primed the wood edges and started laying up the glass. We want to be sure not to have any air bubbles in here, it needs to be solid to work best. Because of the heat I'm going to fill it in 2 or 3 sessions. I'm concerned that if I built it up all the way at once, the epoxy would overheat. Not good. I packed in about 8 layers, will wait for it to get past the flash point and then do it again.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 08, 2013 3:36 pm

by Knottybuoyz

"You're not a real boat builder until you've cut a big hole in the bottom of that beautiful hull you just built!" I just made that up!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 08, 2013 4:03 pm

by Cracker Larry

Building it was the easy part, Rick. It was just faired too

Kept on building it up with progressively larger circles to match the bevel, then a couple of progressive overlaps, and it's done. Except for the fairing. That's for tomorrow. I needed something to do anyway

It took about 22 layers of 12 oz. biax to make 5/16" thickness.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 08, 2013 8:15 pm

by Doc_Dyer

Cracker Larry wrote: That's for tomorrow. I needed something to do anyway

GO FISHING

as much rain as ya'll have had recently you could probably fish off your deck

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 09, 2013 12:42 am

by Shamrock Kid

I like the way you work so organized. Tools layed out and ready for use. Also something cold to drink, radio (for some working music), and a side arm incase

well just incase.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 09, 2013 6:54 am

by Cracker Larry

and a side arm incase well just incase.

Just another tool that I always keep handy. Never know when I might need to hammer a nail or something

GO FISHING

Raymond and I are going tomorrow

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 09, 2013 9:23 am

by wegcagle

Nice work as usual CL. That drink doesn't look like a cubra libre though

One question. Why didn't you just fill the hole with neat epoxy, and then cover it with fiberglass?

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 09, 2013 4:54 pm

by Cracker Larry

Why didn't you just fill the hole with neat epoxy, and then cover it with fiberglass?

Couple of reasons. I think the more dense/solid it is, the better it will transfer the sonar frequencies through it. Plus I want it structurally sound, in case we should hit a rock or something in that spot. And neat epoxy in this heat kicks off and goes thermal in a couple minutes of being contained. I left about a half inch in the cup Sunday and in about 6 minutes it was boiling and melted the cup. Did not want it to boil in my hole

This method worked great, turned out real nice

Raining like heck again, no pictures today.

Are you back in Augusta yet, Will?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 09, 2013 5:06 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote: And neat epoxy in this heat kicks off and goes thermal in a couple minutes of being contained. I left about a half inch in the cup Sunday and in about 6 minutes it was boiling and melted the cup. Did not want it to boil in my hole

Yep

http://forums.bateau2.com/viewtopic.php ... 70#p319924

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 10, 2013 4:56 pm

by garym

Originally bought some 50" 4 0z woven for the sole, front and rear platforms.
From what i'm hearing its probably to light. What weight material would you recommend for the above.

Also curious as to the engine size for this boat.

Thx

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 10, 2013 6:58 pm

by Cracker Larry

Gary, we are doing the sole in bright finished cypress planks and will probably cover it in 6 oz cloth. The deck areas will mostly be covered with 12 oz biax, except the parts that will be bright. I would use 12 oz biax everywhere on sole and decks if it didn't need to be clear. Somebody WILL drop the anchor on it

Also curious as to the engine size for this boat.

I think a 90 Yamaha is going on this one, with a jack plate

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 10, 2013 7:23 pm

by Steven

Hey Larry. I've used a forstner bit to drill through the hull to the outer layer of glass. If you use a light hand it works great. Not much help now, but maybe for the future. If you push hard it can deform the glass some, but if you go slow it's not a problem. You end up with a small hole from the point on the bit, but that's just a little filling needed.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 10, 2013 8:29 pm

by garym

Curious to see how a wood deck will look with 6 oz of cloth over it.

Will you have to reinforce the transom to accommodate a 90hp engine?
I think thats ways over spec for this design.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jul 11, 2013 5:35 am

by wegcagle

sorry, I missed the ques about being back.

Yep, we are moved in and I've started the new job.
We need to get together once I get this new/old house put back together. Between the ankle deep water in the basement, old shag carpet, electrical issues, plumbing issues, and an A/C that's dying a slow/painful death I've been busy

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jul 12, 2013 9:09 am

by Cracker Larry

Hey Larry. I've used a forstner bit to drill through the hull to the outer layer of glass. If you use a light hand it works great.

I considered that, Steven, but I didn't have a 3" Forstner bit and I'm a little scared of a bit that size in a hand drill. Good way to get a broke wrist, which I don't have time for

Hard to fish like that!

Will you have to reinforce the transom to accommodate a 90hp engine?
I think thats ways over spec for this design.

I will a little bit. I've never been known to under build anything

Curious to see how a wood deck will look with 6 oz of cloth over it.

Me too. I'll make some sample test pieces first with different cloths. It should look fine. I did a bright finish on the sole of this Hydrostream and it's 12 oz. biax over plywood. Looks great. I might even use that.

Yep, we are moved in and I've started the new job.

Welcome home

I'm always ready to get together

If it keeps raining we'll need a boat to get to Augusta.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jul 12, 2013 9:23 am

by Cracker Larry

Finished up the fiberglass plug for the transducer, it came out nice

Went around the boat twice more filling every pin hole I could find, then sanded everything again. Hand sanded the primer with 120 grit. Don't want to risk making a divot or flat spot with the sander at this point, or sanding through the primer. It's easy to cause more damage than you cure when you're getting close. I wanted to get this primer sanded before it cured too long. It sands easy now, but in a week or 2 it's like sanding concrete.

After sanding, another wash down with the hose...

Let that dry good, then it's finally time to mask for the graphite...

First coat of graphite/epoxy on. For the record, it took 3 batches. 2 - 12 ounce batches and one 9 ounce.

2 more coats to go, if the weather co-operates today. Raining again

Supposed to storm all weekend.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jul 12, 2013 11:50 am

by AtTheBrink

garym wrote:Curious to see how a wood deck will look with 6 oz of cloth over it.

Will you have to reinforce the transom to accommodate a 90hp engine?
I think thats ways over spec for this design.

I covered the sole on my boat with 6oz and it is very clear. The only spots that didn't come out clear was were sweat dripped on the wood while I was glassing it. It looked so good my wife wanted me to leave it clear.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jul 12, 2013 1:22 pm

by gstanfield

You need to get a handle on that weather situation, we're planning on being in your neighborhood on the 12th and 13th of next month

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jul 12, 2013 1:40 pm

by Cracker Larry

Got you on the calendar, George

Might be some tough gator hunting, the river is WAY above flood. It was bad enough, but they had to open the spillgates at the dam above Augusta yesterday and are sending us a tidal wave down the river. Can't even see the boat ramp or the parking lot right now. Nothing but water.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jul 12, 2013 1:47 pm

by gstanfield

I figure it won't be great, but at the least we get to meet ya! I saw that there's some bad flooding up in the mountains, all the lakes coming down from Burton through Hartwell are already running full flow. The floodgates on Hartwell are all twelve open for the second time since it was built 50+ years ago!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jul 12, 2013 3:26 pm

by garym

That looks sweeeeeeeeet.

Do you put down the standard 1/2" ply for the sole and the wood plank on top?
I know screwing is not something that generally done on this site

but.............
Are you gluing the wood down or gluing and screwing?
Are you leaving space between strips for expansion? and if so what are you using to fill those expansion gaps?

Ok enough annoying questions.

Enjoy the weekend.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jul 12, 2013 3:38 pm

by Cracker Larry

Gary, we're planning to laminate the planks over 1/4" plywood. The planks are about 3/8 thick. The plan (at this point) is to edge glue them together with a plate jointer and biscuits, with epoxy. With it completely encapsulated I don't think expansion and contraction will be a problem, but I could be wrong

Still thinking that through while I work in that direction. No screws, for sure

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jul 12, 2013 6:31 pm

by Rogerdog

The plug is cool -- the hole in the bottom is the strongest point on the boat. The black looks great too. She's got a big bottom!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jul 12, 2013 8:19 pm

by Cracker Larry

the hole in the bottom is the strongest point on the boat.

Sure don't want it being the weakest. Nobody sinks because of me

Want that big fish finder to work good too. This should be fine, the fiberglass plug in my OD18 is twice as thick, it has a 1/2" bottom instead of 1/4, and it works real good marking bottom to about 300'. Then it gets flaky. After about 600' it can't even find bottom, but it's not likely a GF18 will need to mark bottom in 600' of water anyway and this unit is stronger than mine.

Lot of rain today, no epoxy work. Water drops are a mess in epoxy. I have a bad enough time with sweat drops. It's better to wait than it is to spend a day putting it on and another day sanding it off.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jul 14, 2013 10:38 pm

by Steven

Cracker Larry wrote:Gary, we're planning to laminate the planks over 1/4" plywood. The planks are about 3/8 thick. The plan (at this point) is to edge glue them together with a plate jointer and biscuits, with epoxy. With it completely encapsulated I don't think expansion and contraction will be a problem, but I could be wrong Still thinking that through while I work in that direction. No screws, for sure

With no moisture exchange it "should" stay stable. People due glass the outside of solid wood boats for restoration. As long as they take measures to keep the inner hull dry, it works well.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 15, 2013 12:21 pm

by Cracker Larry

Yeah, that's my thinking too. And it's very stable wood already.

Still raining here, 6 more inches over the weekend. Unreal

Roads washed out all over, it's a mess

Got the second coat of graphite on, looks good except for several horse flies, black flies, mosquitoes, gnats and other assorted bugs, whose legs will be forever part of the boat

Going to sand their carcasses with a Scotch Brite pad and put on one more coat.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 16, 2013 9:55 am

by Cracker Larry

Sanded again. Sure will be glad when I've sanded this big bottom for the last time

The green tint is the shine reflecting the grass.

Sun came out for a while and I got the third coat of graphite on between showers, Looks pretty good. Time to pull the tape.

Tape line is not as crisp as I would like. Going to have to touch that up. Not sure if I want to do that now, or wait until I re-prime the sides.

I think this is the last coat of graphite, but maybe not. We'll see today. It was close to dark when I finished up, didn't get a real good look at it.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 16, 2013 10:09 am

by AtTheBrink

Larry, what do you do with edge of the graphite? Mine stood proud by about 1/32" and I ended up using QuikFair to fair it in.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 16, 2013 10:58 am

by Cracker Larry

Wow 1/32 is a lot! Mine is nothing near that. The sides will get another coat or 2 of primer, then the finish paint, which should bring it all flush.

Gave it a good look in the sunshine, and I'm still not happy. Going to sand it again, mask it again and do it over.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 16, 2013 1:08 pm

by AtTheBrink

Yeah it is alot. It was kinda cool out when I did mine and the epoxy went on thick.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 16, 2013 2:12 pm

by Cracker Larry

I just resolved that problem by sanding down the edges

I'll re-tape it about 1/8" further down.

Sanded the big girl, again, first with 120 grit, then water sanded with a Scotch-Brite pad. Scrubbed the bug juice out of it, then washed it good. Going to give it one more coat...almost there...

Mosquitoes and other bugs are terrible from all the rain. Had to set up an anti-bug device.

Waiting on the hull to dry, then will tape it one more time and put on what I hope is the final coat

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 16, 2013 2:18 pm

by antoniekruger

Buddy, that looks great. I cant believe how shiny the black stuff is. I cant seem to track graphite compound down in RSA. My epoxy supplier does not have something like that. Where do you source your's from. Is it a powder or paste?

Looking great Larry. Flip coming soon. Might as well have a braai(I think you call it a BBQ) whilst the coles are hot.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 16, 2013 2:26 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Antoinie. The graphite is a powder that you mix with epoxy. I get it here from Bateau. http://boatbuildercentral.com/proddetai ... eWP4KwudqM

I was planning to have it flipped this past weekend, but weather has delayed that a few days. No matter, soon come

I'd rather spend a couple more days making it right, than a long time wishing I had

Not good cooking coals in that barrel. Just wet leaves, pine straw and spanish moss. Keep the smoke flowing thick ! If it ain't one plague, it's another.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 16, 2013 3:01 pm

by antoniekruger

Larry, sorry to be a pest - why graphite powder

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 16, 2013 3:19 pm

by AtTheBrink

The graphite powder mixed with the epoxy makes a very hard, scratch resistant coating. It is also alot cheaper than paint!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 16, 2013 3:41 pm

by Prarie Dog

Looks awesome, Captain.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 16, 2013 4:59 pm

by wildbill

The smoke is for pestelent prevention. The aborigional natives have been using this technique for thousands of years.
Larry I bet you got a little Creek in you.

The boat look's A-1

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 16, 2013 5:07 pm

by garym

Looks like your planned water line is a little deeper than mine. Your either building heavier or I can add this to my list of miscalculations.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 16, 2013 6:45 pm

by Cannonball

Holy cow! I go fishing for the weekend and don't keep on my following the cracker's build and next thing I know you've about got the outside licked. Looks great!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 16, 2013 9:15 pm

by Cracker Larry

Looks awesome, Captain.

Thanks Paul. Thanks for your input when I call you on the phone for advice too. Your advice is always appreciated.

Larry I bet you got a little Creek in you.

Yep

And some Cherokee. My family on both sides go back over 300 years in this country. There probably ain't much that I don't have in me, except yankee

Buddy, that looks great. I cant believe how shiny the black stuff is.

Thanks! It takes some perseverance, but she shines now.

There is that green grass again..

A good view of the rafters...

Another good view of the rafters...

I think this is finally good nuff

Let it cure a day or so, and then time to flip it.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 16, 2013 9:20 pm

by gstanfield

Very nice work Capt'n

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 16, 2013 9:23 pm

by Boater45

Sounds like its time to go get some fishing in!!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 16, 2013 9:29 pm

by Cracker Larry

Looks like your planned water line is a little deeper than mine. Your either building heavier or I can add this to my list of miscalculations.

My initial taping was at sole level. The thickness of the bottom, plus the height of the stringers, plus the thickness of the sole. that was about 6" at the transom and I followed the line until it ran out.

I used Frog Tape to mask the waterline. I've had good results with it painting, but just found out it's not great for epoxy. Left a very fuzzy line. Re-taped it 1/8" off with 3M Blue .. Won't know how much better that is until I pull it off in the morning. We'll see.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 16, 2013 9:48 pm

by AtTheBrink

Great lookin' rafters Larry!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 17, 2013 10:53 am

by ks8

If I remember right, CL built those too.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 17, 2013 2:09 pm

by wegcagle

Nice work CL. Good looking for sure.

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 17, 2013 2:35 pm

by peter-curacao

Your wasting electricity! Ah the things you can see with a shine like that

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 17, 2013 5:06 pm

by majorgator

Larry, I noticed a small black widow spider in your rafters...you might just want to check on that next time your working out there

I just wish that shine would stay there...
Last summer, I had some of the graphite/epoxy fall off, I think where I beached the boat a few times. Instead of putting more graphite, I went with an industrial high-build epoxy coating that's made for abrasion, chemical, and corrosion resistance. It too has already lost some of its black luster

but I doubt it'll ever come off!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 17, 2013 9:18 pm

by Cracker Larry

Larry, I noticed a small black widow spider in your rafters...

Couple of big wasp nests up there too. We have an understanding, I don't bother them and they don't bother me

I just wish that shine would stay there...
Last summer, I had some of the graphite/epoxy fall off,

Wow, I don't understand how it could fall off, it's 4 coats of epoxy. Mine on the OD18 is still a little bit shiny, duller than it started life but it still has some shine. It sure isn't falling off

Your wasting electricity!

Dang storms come through every couple of hours and it gets black as night, then the sun comes back out, repeat for months

...storming again now. Power has been out most of the afternoon.

Pulled the tape and it was sweet

The 3M Edge Lock tape is much better than Frog Tape for a fine line with epoxy. Got her nailed this time. No bugs to speak of, the smoke pot worked, no runs, no clumps, no bubbles

Re-taped on the other side of the lines and put one more coat of primer on the sides and transoms. I had messed it up pretty good with all the graphite work. Now we have a clean start. Glad to put that messy graphite to rest, too. It will take a month to get it all off of me.

She is as good as I can get it. Another day to fully cure, then time to flip it and start on the inside. I've sanded the bottom of this boat for the LAST time

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 17, 2013 9:23 pm

by Rogerdog

Just gorgeous!!!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 17, 2013 9:53 pm

by snookiehunter

Yep! That's a lot of bottom!
Looks good.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jul 18, 2013 5:03 am

by stickystuff

A hint or maybe not but we used it at work when painting and it works. go to auto parts or paint store and get a roll of 1/4" fine line tape. Lay out your pattern then take the, blue or green tape and tape over the edge of the fine line tape. Results are a very sharp and clean finished edge.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jul 18, 2013 5:39 am

by majorgator

Wow, I don't understand how it could fall off...

In all likelihood, it was poor surface prep on my part. At first, I primed and painted with S3, then sanded the topcoat back down to primer after having a change of mind

Then put the graphite/epoxy on. It only fell off in a couple areas, and the rest of it appears solid.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jul 18, 2013 9:20 am

by Dougster

Boy that looks sharp Larry !! I used frog tape and don't have too fine a line where the graphite meets the paint. It's not too bad but doesn't begin to look as nice as yours. What a relief for you to be through with the bottom, and good on you for the "one more times" it took to get her that nice.

Lookin' forward to the flip Dougster

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jul 18, 2013 2:11 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Doug

Lookin' forward to the flip Dougster

Here ya go...

I re-installed my 2 eye bolts, hooked up the come-alongs and lifted her up a little. Then removed the legs from the building frame. It's too high to work on the inside of the boat without killing my back, so I lowered it 18". This was a major PITA, working under a hanging boat. The building frame is about as heavy as the boat and required lifting assistance also, mostly in the form of levers.

Finally got that settled, then started lifting, slow and easy, careful...

Holy smokes, I was praying nothing broke

Cranked her up enough to roll it all the way over. That was exciting

Set up some hull supports, covered them with cardboard, and set her down gently.

Nothing broke

No scars, only lost a little blood.

I'm going to leave her hanging slightly until tomorrow and give the epoxy another full day to cure before I put full weight on it. Going to try to find some carpet scraps for padding too. Whew! Sure glad that ended well. Time to self medicate my blood pressure now. My client's buying the drinks

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jul 18, 2013 2:34 pm

by antoniekruger

Heeeeehaaa - well done Mr. Cracker

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jul 18, 2013 2:44 pm

by AtTheBrink

Good Job Larry! That is a big flip!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jul 19, 2013 7:23 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thank you both, it was big flip indeed ! Glad that I don't have to do it again

Went up to the local furniture/ flooring/ appliance store this morning looking for any carpet remnants or scraps, and they gave me a piece about 28" X 16 feet. Perfect

Made up some padded bunks...

Got her settled in her new padded home and removed the lifting gear.

And it's still raining

The news says that the current speed in the Savannah River is 35 mph

This ain't good

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jul 19, 2013 8:48 pm

by wildbill

Cracker Larry wrote:And it's still raining The news says that the current speed in the Savannah River is 35 mph This ain't good

"We're gonna need a bigger boat"

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jul 19, 2013 8:54 pm

by AtTheBrink

35mph! Wow! That is like Colorado river type flow! That river is movin' some water!

Good tip on picking up scraps and remnants!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jul 19, 2013 9:22 pm

by ks8

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jul 20, 2013 2:37 pm

by wegcagle

Savannah river is 35mph

I wonder why

This is a picture of the flood gates that were opened from Clarks Hill Lake on 7/11. Now that was a cool site to see.

Will

Edit: Nice work on the flip btw. I will have to remember that for the future.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jul 20, 2013 9:05 pm

by Cracker Larry

This is a picture of the flood gates that were opened from Clarks Hill Lake on 7/11. Now that was a cool site to see.

We drove up to Clarks Hill Lake this morning for our summer family reunion. Crossed that dam twice and it was surely a sight to see

At our family's place at Modoc the water is almost to the top of the boat house roof! Never seen so much water. And it's still raining. Good thing we have 2 boats that will float now

No work today, starting rub rails tomorrow.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jul 21, 2013 7:13 pm

by Cracker Larry

I fully intended to start the rub rails today, but it poured rain again and I couldn't drag out the plywood to rip it. So I started removing all the temporary framing and cleats, pulled off the transducer plug mold, it came out real nice. Perfectly flush and no bubbles in it

Then I decided to work on the transom a little. It wasn't a rub rail day. The squared off top needed some trimming for character, so I marked it where I thought it looked right and cut it down. Sure hope my client thinks it looks right too!

Still have to laminate 2 more layers on this.

If the water gets much higher, this boat is floating out of here

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jul 21, 2013 8:23 pm

by AtTheBrink

Thae transom looks sharp Larry, he should like it. You guys are really getting hammered with the rain! Send some over this way if you can. We are about to dry up and blow away!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jul 21, 2013 8:57 pm

by gstanfield

The boat's looking good Larry and as much as I know the rain is hurting your progress it's nice to see. I'm hoping the rain breaks some while we are out there, but if it doesn't I'll welcome the break from living in the desert

I'm not so sure the wife and kids will enjoy the rain quite as much as I will though....

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 22, 2013 8:54 am

by Dougster

I think that transom looks real good and bet the client will too. I'm amazed at all your rain. We're in a miserable long term drought here in South Texas. Our beautiful highland lakes are running at 36% volume, with most launch ramps closed

Sure wish we could could get some of your surplus run off down here.

Can't change the weather Dougster

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 22, 2013 9:41 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Mike, George and Doug. Looks pretty good to me too

Just got to make 2 more now to match. It's a LOT easier cutting them out flat on a bench than trying to do it freehand on the boat.

Wish I could send y'all some rain. Most of our boat ramps are closed too, because they are under water. I was going to ride up to Raymond's this morning to look at a boat, but the highway between us washed out yesterday and it's a 50 mile detour to go around

This too will pass. Beats a forest fire any time

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 22, 2013 9:44 am

by gk108

Hey, that looks like you've built a canal. Are you putting in a marine railway too?

It has rained on 53 of the last 60 days over here. One 7 day period with 12" total in my rain gage. I can dig the idea of Thor's Hammer driving my ship and all of that stuff, but Thor needs to take a little break.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 22, 2013 9:49 am

by Cracker Larry

Are you putting in a marine railway too?

Soon come I think, Gary

More rain than I can ever remember and more coming. We've had over 60 inches in the last 60 days.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 22, 2013 5:43 pm

by robbiro

Larry,I guess that your yard is thoroughly rain soaked and will not take anymore? I thought the 40+ we have had here so far this year on a 52" average for the year was a bit, but WOW!!
The build is looking great and the transom is a very nice touch.

Robbie

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 23, 2013 9:19 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Robbie. Thoroughly soaked would be an understatement

Worked on the transom some more between showers yesterday. Cut out the 2 inner layers and dry fit them. Clamped them in place and drilled 3 holes for alignment dowels.

Removed them and primed the 2 sides with epoxy..

Mixed up a batch of glue and spread even with notched trowel..

Then put them together. The dowels maintain alignment. Clamped and weighted.

I'll glue this in the boat today.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 23, 2013 9:31 pm

by snookiehunter

Looking good.
May I ask, what is the advantage of doing it that way, vs. gluing the three together before stitching? Weight? My transom was 24" tall, 1/2" Meranti x3. It wasn't too heavy to manage.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 24, 2013 10:35 am

by Cracker Larry

I'm not sure there is any advantage. I did it to keep the weight down while attaching the transom, and to keep the boat lighter for the 2 flips, since I flip it by myself. It's more steps and more work to do it this way.

Got her glued in yesterday. First primed all the mating surfaces...

Smeared it with glue, clamped and screwed in place..

The ends of the stringers are covered with packing tape. Don't want to glue them in yet! I'll do some final shaping on it today, then start the rub rails, weather permitting. It's still raining

Speaking of rain, it's driving the critters out of the swamps and onto high ground. I've killed 3 rattlesnakes and a copperhead this week in the yard. Really worried about the dog, he's too curious for his own good.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 24, 2013 10:48 am

by Hope2float

Larry you are a MACHINE !
BUILD_ON
Dave

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 24, 2013 10:46 pm

by Cracker Larry

Still building on, Dave. No machine, I just plod along, one little bite at a time

Finished rough shaping of the transom, will clean it up after the deck goes on. Then we cut a lot of rub rail strips. Had plenty of scrap pieces left over from the bottom and side panels that I ripped into 3 1/2" widths of various lengths. Used every 1/4 scrap that we had wider than 3 1/2, I think it might be enough without cutting into a fresh sheet. I want to get the rub rails glued on to stiffen the hull sides, before I remove the interior framing.

We had a 12 hour drought today

It quit raining at 1000 this morning and didn't rain again all day. But it's pouring again now

We needed a little rain

Will start gluing these strips up tomorrow if the boat doesn't float away.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jul 25, 2013 12:02 am

by Rogerdog

You say the snakes are coming out of the woods 2 x 2 . . .

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jul 26, 2013 6:45 pm

by Cracker Larry

Just 1X1 so far

No building progress to report, my Mom has been in the ICU with pneumonia since early AM yesterday and not doing well, but a little better today. I've spent most of the last 2 days in Savannah at the hospital. I only think I'm getting old. You think you got problems, go spend 24 hours in a big hospital ER unit. I walked out of there saying thank you Lord. There is too much misery to comprehend

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jul 26, 2013 7:08 pm

by AtTheBrink

Puttin' Momma Cracker on the prayer list.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jul 26, 2013 7:14 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:
No building progress to report, my Mom has been in the ICU with pneumonia since early AM yesterday and not doing well, but a little better today. I've spent most of the last 2 days in Savannah at the hospital. I only think I'm getting old. You think you got problems, go spend 24 hours in a big hospital ER unit. I walked out of there saying thank you Lord. There is too much misery to comprehend

I'm sorry to hear that Larry, you know I'm not much of a prayer guy but I will absolutely think about her, hopes that helps also.I hope she get well soon!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jul 26, 2013 7:17 pm

by wegcagle

Sorry to hear about your mom Larry. Prayers are certainly sent her way.

I agree about adult ERs...there's a reason I work with kids

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jul 26, 2013 7:53 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Mike, Peter and Will

I hear ya Peter, but there is much power in positive thought. No matter what you call it, I think.

Will, the people who do your kind of work are very special. I couldn't do it.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jul 26, 2013 7:57 pm

by ks8

prayers ... thoughts ... for the whole family too ...

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jul 26, 2013 7:59 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Karl.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jul 26, 2013 8:01 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:
Will, the people who do your kind of work are very special. I couldn't do it.

And stay as joyful as Will is even more impressive

I know I couldn't handle it, even with the cured signed off against the non cured

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jul 26, 2013 9:45 pm

by TRC886

Thoughts are with you. I hope she continues to get better!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jul 27, 2013 1:29 am

by willg

CL, hoping for a steady and full recovery for your mom.

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jul 27, 2013 8:15 am

by topwater

Sorry to hear about your mom Larry.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jul 27, 2013 8:43 am

by Cracker Larry

Appreciate it, all. Time to head back to the hospital...

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jul 27, 2013 8:52 am

by garym

Best wishes for a speedy recovery.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jul 27, 2013 8:08 pm

by stickystuff

Prayers on the way. larry. I think of mine all the time.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jul 27, 2013 9:10 pm

by gstanfield

Prayers and wishes for a speedy recovery. I hope to hear a good report soon.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jul 28, 2013 9:34 am

by antoniekruger

Ditto, as above - good luck, buddy.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jul 28, 2013 8:22 pm

by Cracker Larry

We sure do appreciate all the well wishes, prayers, texts, phone calls and PM's. Y'all are a great group of friends

Getting a little better every day, still got a long way to go, but I think it's working.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 29, 2013 12:53 pm

by wegcagle

Will, the people who do your kind of work are very special. I couldn't do it.

And stay as joyful as Will is even more impressive I know I couldn't handle it, even with the cured signed off against the non cured

I appreciate the kind words guys. I sure am appreciative of our friendships. Glad to hear your mom is on the mend CL

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 29, 2013 3:46 pm

by cottontop

Haven't been on here lately. Too busy with life and work. The work part will change soon! I will put your family and your mom on our prayer list. Mine is now 78 and I pray for her every day. We have spent some time in many hospitals. What you see and here can really may you stop and thank God for how good we have it. John

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 29, 2013 3:46 pm

by peter-curacao

Good to hear that Larry.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 29, 2013 5:16 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Will, John, Peter, she is a tough old bird. Supposed to be moving from ICU to PCU sometime tonight. They don't do anything in a hurry around here. Still making improvements.

Got the whole family running like a well oiled machine now, everybody has their duties and time slots, looks like it might be a long haul so we all have to pace ourselves. Might even get some boat work done soon

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 29, 2013 5:33 pm

by gstanfield

Good to hear that she is improving and it's nice that you have other family members to help out.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 29, 2013 5:56 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks George, we've got a tight family network that hangs together when needed

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 29, 2013 8:44 pm

by gk108

Larry, we'll give you a pass on the boat work. Sometimes, you just have to take care of biz.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 29, 2013 10:09 pm

by robbiro

And Mamma always comes first. Thoughts and prayers for continued improvement from us.
Robbie

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 30, 2013 1:57 pm

by mecreature

I stopped in for a quick peek and couldn't drag myself away from your GF18 thread.
I sure do enjoy reading about your builds. Best wishes sent.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 30, 2013 10:09 pm

by flattitude 1976

Prayers to you and your family Larry. May she make a speedy and full recovery. Make sure she is using her inspirometer every hour if she can. It is very important and speeds the healing process.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 31, 2013 8:25 am

by Joe H

we've got a tight family network that hangs together when needed

That’s a good thing Larry, very fortunate.

I hope you Mom’s doing better, Janet said to tell you she will say a prayer, her Mom just got out of the hospital a couple months ago with pneumonia, she’s 91 and doing great now, between the Hospital and family support she will come out of this just fine.

Joe & Janet

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 31, 2013 9:37 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks all for the thoughts, prayers and well wishes. We sure appreciate it. Still making steady improvement, the docs say they are going to move her out of PCU and into a regular room later today.

I did the night shift, got the day off so planning to do some boat work today

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 31, 2013 9:46 am

by AtTheBrink

Sometimes boat work is the best thing to clear your mind and escape from the world around us.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 31, 2013 5:59 pm

by Cracker Larry

Yep, work and fishing are good for the soul. Raining again though, didn't go fishing. Need to.

Masked off for gluing the rub rails, We don't want glue drips on our clean primer.

Dry fitted the first layer all around with screws, but the 3 1/2" wide rails took some clamp persuasion also. Got the first layer on the starboard side glued, screwed and clamped...

And the first layer on the port side fitted and screwed into position..

Then it started raining sideways again. We needed some more rain

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Aug 01, 2013 10:18 am

by Uncle D

Wish you could send some of that rain down this way. Always seem to be a day late, lately. Sorry to hear about your mom but also glad to see she is doing better. Prayers sent amigo.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Aug 01, 2013 4:23 pm

by garym

Glad to see you're back at it.

What type of Nav lights will you be using?

Hope all is well.

Gary

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Aug 01, 2013 5:29 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Don and Gary. Don, I'd sure like to direct some of it your way, we've got our share and yours too this year. They said on the news this morning that we were officially 42 inches above normal for the year.

Gary, we are using LED sharkeye style lights, I think the brand is Marpro. Already got them, they look real nice.

I just had a weird thing happen. I'd mentioned earlier our snake problem due to the high water. I had mixed up a 9 oz batch of glue for another layer of rub rail, started spreading it and all hell broke loose at the bird feeder about 20' away. A medium size snake had a death grip on a cardinal, the bird was going crazy, then my dog went crazy and jumped into it. The snake dropped the bird, started buzzing like a bee and went inside the bird feeder. Cane took over with the bird, it didn't survive the experience

So I've got a dog going crazy and an angry rattlesnake buzzing inside the bird feeder, and a batch of epoxy that's about to smoke. Dumped the epoxy out quick, put the dog inside, let the snake alone and spread the glue. Then fished his azz out of there with a long bar clamp and beat it to death

Dang, every time I turn around there's another snake. They don't worry me much, except for the dog who's judgement isn't always good.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Aug 01, 2013 5:36 pm

by Larry B

I hate those snakes. If you remember my dog Roscoe got bit by a rattlesnake on the nose. Don't know for sure but I'm thinking that might have had something to do with his kidney/liver failure about 3 years later

You got some big snakes down there. With all the water and high grass it's hard to believe how dogs don't get bit more often.
We have quite a few humans get bit here every year also.

btw, boat is looking great

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Aug 01, 2013 5:42 pm

by Cracker Larry

Not much photoworthy here. Pre-coat surfaces with neat epoxy, spread glue, screw and clamp, wait to cure, repeat.
Moving forward, Mom's still improving nicely, still raining

It takes screws and clamps both to subdue this wide rail..

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Aug 01, 2013 9:29 pm

by robbiro

How are you filling the screw holes?? Drill/refill or just fill before you go to the next section of rail?

Robbie
(We had a cat get snakebit a year or so ago on the front paw as he was trying to swat the snake.)

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 03, 2013 7:54 am

by Cracker Larry

I hate those snakes. If you remember my dog Roscoe got bit by a rattlesnake on the nose. Don't know for sure but I'm thinking that might have had something to do with his kidney/liver failure about 3 years later
You got some big snakes down there. With all the water and high grass it's hard to believe how dogs don't get bit more often.
We have quite a few humans get bit here every year also.

Yeah Larry, they are bad. I've had 2 dogs and 2 cats bit. Killed my beagle and both cats, almost killed my female golden, she spent 3 days in the hospital. I've been bit twice myself over the years. Dang serpents

Had 3 coyotes come in the yard hunting food yesterday evening just as I was finishing up. They came slinking out from behind the pump house and heading for Cane, who was asleep under the boat. As always, the XD9 was right at hand and I took out the leader with one clean head shot, then missed the other two 16 times as they scrambled

I needed the scattergun! Glad I saw them first, or it would have got ugly.

Finished gluing up the mahogany sections of the rub rails. We are going to trim this with 1X1 ipe.

How are you filling the screw holes?? Drill/refill or just fill before you go to the next section of rail?

The interior layers I'm just filling them with glue and a putty knife. The outside will be bright finished and I think I'm going to drill them out and glue 1/4" dowels in the holes. That should look pretty good.

I've got hospital duty this afternoon, probably won't get much done today.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 03, 2013 9:08 am

by AtTheBrink

Good shootin' Larry! Snakes, coyotes, what's next? Bears?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 03, 2013 9:19 pm

by Cracker Larry

Good shootin' Larry! Snakes, coyotes, what's next? Bears?

Good shootin'

One hit out of 17 shots

Glad they weren't Indians. Running coyotes in the brush aren't an easy target with a handgun, but I scared the bejeezus out of them anyway

Funny you should say bears, there have been a lot of recent bear sightings within a few miles of us in the last couple of weeks. In all my years in the coastal swamps I've only seen one around here, and that wasn't recently. There is a good bear population in north Georgia, and also in south Georgia in the Okefenokee Swamp, but we've never had many to speak of. Lately many people have reported seeing them around here on the roads and in fields, lot of pictures on the news. Very unusual. Evidently they are being pushed out of the low swamps too. I haven't seen any yet, hope I do. Sure don't want to have to shoot one. A pack of hungry coyotes will attack a dog, but a black bear won't go out of it's way to mess with a dog, or us either. Likely to smash the trash can though. They can have the trash can if they want it

As long as I can get the dog inside safe, I ain't shootin' a bear if I'm gifted with a visit. Bears get a free pass, coyotes and rattlesnakes don't.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Aug 04, 2013 9:47 am

by Prarie Dog

Good job killing the Coyote Larry, shooting them running is always tough to do!!

We got bears on the roam up here too, it's been raining lately, but it started too late to keep them up in the mountains. Here's a video of a Bear making a raid on the dumpster at our favorite German Restaurant in Colorado Springs, just a few days ago.
http://youtu.be/KusRen6B_20

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Aug 04, 2013 11:56 am

by AtTheBrink

When I lived at the Air Force Academy the bears came around every trash day. They would waddle up to a can, give it a good sniff and then send it flipping with a swipe of a paw! Then they would nose thru the trash and scatter it everywhere making a huge mess. Cans with baby diapers seemed to be a favorite. Fun to watch but it sucked cleaning up after them. You could always tell the trash bears from the others. The trash bears were alway obese.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Aug 04, 2013 12:14 pm

by ks8

while I'm in NC, like clockwork, every night the deer keep me awake, stomping and grunting and scraping up the trees. then the racoons. haven't seen bears but sounded like something that big fell out of a tree one night. almost jumped out of my shoes. the does come through at sunrise, quietly at about 20 yards out. I'll miss it when I'm moved out for good, but not all of it.

that stinks having those rattlers driven into the yard. are the gators slack in their snake killing duties?

glad the dog had some help being spared from the furry thugs.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Aug 04, 2013 1:19 pm

by TRC886

Good job on keeping your eyes peeled, and taking out that first one, Cracker

Better luck on the other two, IF they come slinking back

There are a few bears around here, in fact, I saw one yesterday

Several years ago, one had climbed my dad's plum tree and was eating plums. Dad saw it just before dawn, and ran outside (in his drawers) to the corner of the house, 30 feet from the tree

He yelled, "YOU GET OUT OF MY PLUM TREE". The bear turned loose and slid down the tree, taking about half of the limbs out of it, then ran across the path into the woods

The tree didn't survive

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Aug 05, 2013 11:33 am

by garym

Was wondering what you are planning for the front transom and bow eye.
I was considering doubling or tripling up the ply above the casting deck as the backing plate for the bow eye.

Hope all is well.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Aug 05, 2013 9:39 pm

by Cracker Larry

Gary, my executive director came by yesterday and we worked out most of the bow deck details. We aren't building the large one piece flat bow deck as per plans. I'm going to add another frame between the bow transom and frame A, about 30" behind the bow and cut at the same camber as the bow transom. We will put a flush cambered deck over that, then do a step down to a large upholstered seating area that is removable, to be easily replaced with fishing chairs.

I'm going to duplicate the rub rails across the the bow transom at the same width as the side rub rails, but cut on a curve to match the top of the bow transom, like an eyebrow. This will also get trimmed with ipe. Hard to explain. The bow eye will be below that and backed up with at least 1" of plywood.

My executive director also brought another truck load of good stuff

16 flush mount stainless rod holders, that should be enough

4 of each angles 90, 45, 30 and 15 degrees. 6 stainless hawse pipes, a Blue Seas switch panel, a full set of Teleflex instruments, a Teleflex control box, couple of group 27 battery boxes, and some other cool stuff. Along with a bottle of some fantastic rum

I love my job

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Aug 05, 2013 9:51 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:
My executive director also brought another truck load of good stuff 16 flush mount stainless rod holders, that should be enough

Is he/she from Texas or what?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 06, 2013 9:55 am

by Cracker Larry

Is he/she from Texas or what?

Georgia

16 rod holders on the gunwales, 6 more on the T-top

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 06, 2013 10:53 am

by garym

16 on the gunwales. Sounds like you're building the boat around the rod holders.
Seems your client doesn't no that Guns and Whales aren't fashionable these days.

Just kidding, Its the New York in me.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 06, 2013 4:26 pm

by Cannonball

If he/she was from Texas there would be 16 cup holders to install along with the rod holders.

Speakin of, I need to figure out where to mount mine.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 06, 2013 5:52 pm

by Cracker Larry

We've got 12 stainless cup holders too

And 6 hawse pipes. Should be real interesting fitting it all in

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 06, 2013 5:54 pm

by gk108

In the right lake at the right time, 16 cane poles can create a lot of action.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 06, 2013 5:56 pm

by AtTheBrink

Now I need a cup holder

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 06, 2013 6:29 pm

by Cracker Larry

16 cane poles can create a lot of action.

That's just funny right there

You live in a different part of Georgia than I do, although I do like a cane pole sometimes, preferably fiberglass

We might have a few more rod holders on the leaning post and chair too. I'm thinking it might look more like this, rather than cane poles

Go big or go home

No boat work today, had to take dog to the vet for a skin infection, then do hospital duty. Mom isn't doing as well as hoped, not coming home soon

Had better luck with the vet than at the hospital, we've got a great vet. He's also an offshore fisherman who I gave over 500 gps numbers too

I told him about our snake infestation and asked what I could do for a snake bit dog. He said that if it didn't get a shot within 30 minutes, his chances with a rattlesnake bite were less than 10%. We live an hour from the vet. He hooked me up with the necessary drugs, measured for the dog's weight, and loaded in syringes and ready to inject if needed. He showed me just where to shoot them and promises that will keep dog alive until I can get to town. I feel a lot better about dog, if not Mom.

Back to boat work tomorrow.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 06, 2013 6:44 pm

by peter-curacao

Good to hear that about the dog Larry, I'm sorry for the news about (edit) your mom, I keep hoping she's getting better very soon!

Cannonball wrote:If he/she was from Texas there would be 16 cup holders to install along with the rod holders.

Speakin of, I need to figure out where to mount mine.

Nah If he/she was from Texas he/she would have asked for cup holders like mine

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 06, 2013 7:45 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Peter.

Nah If he/she was from Texas he/she would have asked for cup holders like mine

Now you're talking

A litre of rum or a tuna in each

16 of those would last even you, me and Will for a couple days

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 06, 2013 8:08 pm

by wildbill

AtTheBrink wrote: I told him about our snake infestation and asked what I could do for a snake bit dog.

Larry, We have a bunch of coral snakes here and alway's near the trash can's. There alway's scootin by, they don't bother me so I don't bother them. But the wife is having no part of it. She bought a box of moth ball's last year and put them everywhere. I haven't seen one in a year. (second time she used this tecnique, we had eastern diamondbacks in Lake City) I can bet you know what that smelled like for a few month's

I'm sure with all that rising water their just looking for somewhere dry. Larry I'm sure they would help if you layed out a perimeter, you know what your dealing with. The moth ball's were to close to my shop and ticked me off a few evening's I'm not gonna lie.

atonewiththesnakebill

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 06, 2013 9:15 pm

by Rogerdog

Twelve gunnel rod holders would be reasonable, but sixteen? No way!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 06, 2013 10:02 pm

by Bowmovement

wildbill wrote:
AtTheBrink wrote: I told him about our snake infestation and asked what I could do for a snake bit dog.
Larry, We have a bunch of coral snakes here and alway's near the trash can's. There alway's scootin by, they don't bother me so I don't bother them. But the wife is having no part of it. She bought a box of moth ball's last year and put them everywhere. I haven't seen one in a year. (second time she used this tecnique, we had eastern diamondbacks in Lake City) I can bet you know what that smelled like for a few month's
I'm sure with all that rising water their just looking for somewhere dry. Larry I'm sure they would help if you layed out a perimeter, you know what your dealing with. The moth ball's were to close to my shop and ticked me off a few evening's I'm not gonna lie.

atonewiththesnakebill

Careful with them mothballs around pets. I had a skunk living in my backyard in San Diego and the dog, Siberian Husky I was sitting for a friend while he was deployed, got sprayed at least 3 times. Talk about fun cleaning. Not being able to discharge a firearm in the city limits I had to find other options. Mothballs ran him off. I hear it works for quite a few pests. I was just careful to put them where the dog couldn't get them. I have heard and read it will make them sick.

Larry, I hope your mom feels better.

Matt

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 06, 2013 10:15 pm

by Cracker Larry

Twelve gunnel rod holders would be reasonable, but sixteen? No way!

Maybe I miscounted, or maybe I included the 4 across the transom, or maybe I drank some of that good rum

Been a long day

We got plenty of rod and drink holders anyway

Larry, We have a bunch of coral snakes here and alway's near the trash can's.

We've got those too, but they aren't a threat to anything. Their venom is deadly, but they have to chew a while on soft meat to even break human skin. They can't strike like a rattlesnake, copperhead or water moccasin. We've got a lot of king snakes too that look like coral snakes, the only real difference is the color separation. Red touching yellow, kill a fellow (coral snake). Red touching black, friendly jack. The dog has free run of about 200 acres of woods and swamp, that would take a lot of mothballs

It may work in a small area, but not here.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 06, 2013 10:49 pm

by Cracker Larry

Careful with them mothballs around pets. I had a skunk living in my backyard in San Diego and the dog, Siberian Husky I was sitting for a friend while he was deployed, got sprayed at least 3 times. Talk about fun cleaning. Not being able to discharge a firearm in the city limits I had to find other options.

That's why I don't live inside city limits. Not even close. There's some things you can't do inside those city limits. I don't have those restrictions, never intend to either. (That's a country song) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DuWbkVsV7rM

Mothballs and pets are not a good combination. I don't really like putting out poisons of any kind. They are indiscriminate killers. I've only had a couple of skunk experiences in my life, and hope to never repeat them

I think I'm happy that we have more snakes than skunks. Another redneck piece of knowledge, wash skunk scent off with a bath of tomato juice. Not that it really works, it's just what you are supposed to do. Nothing really works for skunk, except a months time and 6 baths in tomato juice

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 06, 2013 10:50 pm

by Cracker Larry

Larry, I hope your mom feels better.

Matt

Thanks Matt, I really appreciate the thoughts

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Aug 07, 2013 12:15 am

by Bowmovement

Cracker Larry wrote:
Careful with them mothballs around pets. I had a skunk living in my backyard in San Diego and the dog, Siberian Husky I was sitting for a friend while he was deployed, got sprayed at least 3 times. Talk about fun cleaning. Not being able to discharge a firearm in the city limits I had to find other options.
That's why I don't live inside city limits. Not even close. There's some things you can't do inside those city limits. I don't have those restrictions, never intend to either. (That's a country song) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DuWbkVsV7rM :

Id be in the country if I could. Wife wont do it right now. 15 month old and two full time working adults wont allow it. Some day, probably not soon, butsome day. Im not out in the country now but not in city limits. I hope to be out in the country when we retire.

Matt

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Aug 07, 2013 8:47 am

by Dougster

I've been living in the country for 11 years now, and sure do love it. Been out of town for a week and haven't kept up well. I could read the forum but forgot the password and couldn't log in to post. Anyway, I was saddened to hear of your mother's illness and have been wishing the best for your family.

Knows hospital duty is tough Dougster

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Aug 07, 2013 9:16 am

by Marshall Moser

Scent-A-Way (http://www.hunterspec.com/content/scent ... onditioner) works for removing skunk odor. My parent's dog likes to get sprayed at least once a year.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Aug 07, 2013 9:46 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Doug, appreciate ya

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Aug 11, 2013 10:34 pm

by Cracker Larry

Geez, it's been too hot for words to describe

Hard to keep moving, but still moving forward slowly. Got the rub rails across the bow transom cut out and installed. Drilled out the screw holes all around and plugged them with short lengths of mahogany dowels. Cut 30 plugs, saturated them with epoxy, primed the holes with epoxy, dipped the plugs in glue and drove them in.

Let them cure then cut off the plugs almost flush, sanded them flush and gave the rails a coat of epoxy.

Let that cure, sanded it all again, did a little more filling and gave it another coat of epoxy...

Time to strip out the framing now and start glassing the inside. Sure hope it cools off a little bit, it's a lot of glass to wet out when it's 100 degrees.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Aug 12, 2013 8:21 am

by topwater

Nice job Larry , how come you did not use the ipe and went with mahogany

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Aug 12, 2013 9:30 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks John. We are going to put a strip of ipe over the mahogany and flush with the deck edge. That won't be installed until after the deck goes on.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Aug 12, 2013 9:44 am

by Rogerdog

The eyebrow curve up front looks nice.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Aug 12, 2013 6:27 pm

by AtTheBrink

Looking good Larry.

Thanks for mentioning dowels! That reminded me to pick some up today! I like the way you did the rubrail, are going to install a rubber rub rail as well? If so, what size are you going with?

It is Insanely HOT over here too...

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Aug 14, 2013 6:04 pm

by Cracker Larry

Progress is slow this week, heat has been awful and still doing Mom duty, but still moving forward and Mom is doing better.

The eyebrow curve up front looks nice.

I'm glad you like it

Still needs a little more shaping up but I think it looks good. After 2 coats of epoxy we pulled the tape and paper all around. If the tape sits too long in this heat it will melt and be a mess to remove. Cane is an enthusiastic paper puller

You can tell better how it looks with the paper off.

I made 3 cross braces to maintain the hull shape while removing the frames and glassing the inside. Just 2X4's cut to length and angles, with 1X2's that lap the rub rail on both sides to keep it all in place.

Cut all the interior framing out, it was tabbed in with pieces of biax tape. The Rockwell multi-tool zips them right out.

Now it needs some sanding and clean up, then time for another glassing marathon. The weekend is looking good for it. We've got a cold front passing now, raining again and it's supposed to be 15 degrees cooler for the next few days

85 is much better than 100

Epoxy doesn't like 100 and neither do I.

I like the way you did the rubrail, are going to install a rubber rub rail as well? If so, what size are you going with?

No rubber Mike. The crash rail will be a 1X1 strip of ipe all around, and they don't call it ironwood for nothing . Anything this boat hits will probably be damaged

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Aug 15, 2013 8:22 am

by robbiro

The build is going great, but more important, MOM is improving!! Carry on Larry,
Robbie

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Aug 15, 2013 12:34 pm

by Knottybuoyz

Cracker Larry wrote:Progress is slow this week, heat has been awful and still doing Mom duty, but still moving forward and Mom is doing better.

That's good news! Best wishes for a full & speedy recovery!

Cracker Larry wrote:We've got a cold front passing now, raining again and it's supposed to be 15 degrees cooler for the next few days 85 is much better than 100 Epoxy doesn't like 100 and neither do I.

A welcome break no doubt. We're rapidly approaching winter but it's a very comfortable 75 degs in the big blue boat shed.

Cracker Larry wrote:No rubber Mike. The crash rail will be a 1X1 strip of ipe all around, and they don't call it ironwood for nothing . Anything this boat hits will probably be damaged

Crash rail? Hmmm? Do I need one of them too? Not that I'm planning on crashing into anything (fingers crossed)!

Carry on Dusty Cracker. Watching intently!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Aug 15, 2013 5:50 pm

by gstanfield

The GF is looking good and its great that Mom is getting better!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Aug 15, 2013 7:22 pm

by Cracker Larry

George, I'm so sorry that we couldn't hook up while you were on Tybee

It's been a crazy week.

Thanks all for the well wishes

She was supposed to come home today and we've been making preparations for that, cleaning house, cutting grass, stocking up the groceries, .... but now they have decided to keep her until tomorrow

These hospital people wear me out.

Not that I'm planning on crashing into anything (fingers crossed)!

Rick, does anyone ever get up in the morning and plan on crashing their boat today

Or have someone crashing into them?
Does your car have air bags?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Aug 15, 2013 7:28 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote: but now they have decided to keep her until tomorrow These hospital people wear me out.

Better safe than sorry Larry, I'm glad she's doing better

Btw isn't Dori hospital people also?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Aug 15, 2013 11:10 pm

by Aripeka Angler

Great to hear your Mother is getting better Larry! That is great news my friend

Nice job on your build as always...

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Aug 16, 2013 7:07 am

by Knottybuoyz

Cracker Larry wrote:Rick, does anyone ever get up in the morning and plan on crashing their boat today Or have someone crashing into them?

I've only met two kinds of sailors in my life Larry. Those that have crashed into something and those that say claim never have!

Cracker Larry wrote:Does your car have air bags?

Nope. I divorced her!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Aug 16, 2013 2:21 pm

by Cracker Larry

Mom is finally home and settled

Dang, it's been a long haul there

've only met two kinds of sailors in my life Larry. Those that have crashed into something and those that say claim never have!

My most spectacular crash involved putting a plow anchor on the pulpit of a 35' sailboat right through the 12" water main feeding the entire town of West End, Grand Bahama. Water shot 50 feet in the air. Man oh man were they PO'd with me

Water cost more than diesel down there. Taste about the same too

I avoided West End for 20 years after that, didn't want anyone to remember me

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Aug 16, 2013 2:30 pm

by Cracker Larry

Great to hear your Mother is getting better Larry! That is great news my friend Nice job on your build as always...

Thanks Richard

Btw isn't Dori hospital people also?

She was a long time ago, she worked hospital ER for several years when she first got out of school. She works in a private practice of neuro-surgeons now. Takes pretty pictures of brains and spines

Beats me how she does it

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 17, 2013 8:35 am

by ks8

Glad for you all that your mom is home.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Aug 19, 2013 12:13 pm

by Cracker Larry

Appreciate it KS, still doing well. In fact she just called and said she was boiling and cleaning a bushel of crabs, so I reckon she's doing pretty good

Can't wait until the deviled crabs are made, she's been cooking crabs for 75 years and she knows how!

Been a nasty weekend for weather again, over 8 inches of rain since Friday, which broke our 2 day drought. So much for drying out. Still moving forward, sanded and cleaned the interior seams, primed, filleted and taped all with 2 layers. Doesn't seem like much, but it's about 50' of fillets and 100' of tape, a gallon of epoxy and a sore back

Since I wasn't able to glass it wet on wet all in the same day, now I have to sand it again

A friend of mine texd me this picture last night, killed yesterday a few miles from my house. That is one heck of a rattlesnake

We haven't had any snakes this week, but got some huge spiders.

Building on....

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Aug 19, 2013 12:45 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:Appreciate it KS, still doing well. In fact she just called and said she was boiling and cleaning a bushel of crabs, so I reckon she's doing pretty good Can't wait until the deviled crabs are made, she's been cooking crabs for 75 years and she knows how!

That's great! good to hear that!

Cracker Larry wrote:Doesn't seem like much, but it's about 50' of fillets and 100' of tape, a gallon of epoxy and a sore back

I hear you

Cracker Larry wrote:

Looking great as always

Cracker Larry wrote:A friend of mine texd me this picture last night, killed yesterday a few miles from my house. That is one heck of a rattlesnake

That thing is huge! does he eat that?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Aug 19, 2013 12:55 pm

by hooter

Cracker Larry wrote:A friend of mine texd me this picture last night, killed yesterday a few miles from my house. That is one heck of a rattlesnake

Larry. Might want to check your friend's story out. He's lying to you. http://www.livingalongsidewildlife.com/ ... snake.html

Big snake for sure but that same kid and rattlesnake has been killed and photographed from Texas to Florida and everywhere in between

hOOt

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Aug 19, 2013 2:53 pm

by Cracker Larry

Well aint that some stuff

I wish people wouldn't do that to me

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Aug 19, 2013 2:55 pm

by Cracker Larry

I took the spider picture anyway

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Aug 19, 2013 10:00 pm

by Steven

That's great news about your Mom Larry. Send some crab cakes this. One of the few things I miss about Maryland.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Aug 19, 2013 11:36 pm

by HTJ

Larry I don't know where you stand on cats but a couple or 3 will do wonders for your snake population.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 20, 2013 7:42 am

by Cracker Larry

The last 2 cats we had both got killed by snakes

Jeez, will it ever quit raining

4 more inches yesterday. Roads flooded everywhere, schools closed in 3 counties, it's a mess!

Got the tape sanded yesterday, if it dries out enough we're ready to glass the inside.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 20, 2013 8:10 am

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote: Jeez, will it ever quit raining 4 more inches yesterday.

Sent some please.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 20, 2013 9:29 am

by Mad Dog

peter-curacao wrote:
Cracker Larry wrote: Jeez, will it ever quit raining 4 more inches yesterday.
Sent some please.

What he said...

We are desperate.

MD

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 20, 2013 9:57 am

by Cracker Larry

I would be glad to share some

That's great news about your Mom Larry. Send some crab cakes this. One of the few things I miss about Maryland.

Thanks Steven! Don't you have crabs in Texas?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 20, 2013 8:57 pm

by AtTheBrink

Mad Dog wrote:
peter-curacao wrote:
Cracker Larry wrote: Jeez, will it ever quit raining 4 more inches yesterday.
Sent some please.

What he said... We are desperate.

MD

Y'all are sure getting more than your share Larry. We are on the short end of the stick down here. We did get some rain last night and this morning but no drouth breaker for sure.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 20, 2013 9:34 pm

by gstanfield

I noticed the rain hit hard right after we left, good thing too as we caught three beautiful days on the beach and I'm thankful for that. I do hate that we missed seeing you, but the upside is that I got to keep that nice bottle of Rum I had for you

We finally made it back to WY, a nice little vacation back home to GA consisting of 18 days, 4,438 miles and over 92 hours in the van!

By time we made it home we could barely stand each other, but we had a blast and I can't wait for my next trip back home.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 20, 2013 9:49 pm

by Cracker Larry

Glad y'all made it home safe George. That's a long drive for sure

Still raining, 2 more inches today, and a Blue Moon is rising between the clouds

Big moon tonight will bring out the crazies, are you back on duty?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Aug 21, 2013 12:28 pm

by gstanfield

I'm not back on until tomorrow and it's doubtful I will leave my office at all this week. I'm anticipating about 300 e-mails to be waiting on me and a stack of papers a mile high, plus all the reports I need to review from when I was away.....

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Aug 21, 2013 3:17 pm

by Steven

On the Gulf coast. I prefer to catch and cook myself though. Spent a lot of time growing up running a trout line with my father . Chicken, eel , bulls lips. Crabs running loose in the boat as they were coming up the line faster than I could accurately net them and deposit them in the crap basket. Fun times.

Send that rain this way. We're in drought city out here.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Aug 21, 2013 6:24 pm

by Cracker Larry

Still raining, got plenty to send, just don't know how

Talk to the big man in charge.

We're lucky in that we have plenty of easily caught crabs, shrimp, oysters, clams, and fish if you know how. Our pluff mud makes it all taste better too

Nothing fancy...just steam them and dump them on the table and eat them

Making me hungry. Tuna for dinner. Back to boat building

Insides sanded ..

Decided to prime the inside before glassing, just like the outside. This will make wetting out the cloth much easier and faster. I did it late in the day and am planning to start the cloth early am so I can still get the wet on wet window.

The weather has not been kind to boat builders around here lately. It's either pouring rain or it's 95 degrees and 95% humidity. Fall is coming though

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Aug 21, 2013 7:31 pm

by gstanfield

Larry, have you tried hooking your shop vac up to your dewalt while sanding? It makes it a little more bothersome to run the sander, but it sure is nice to sand without dust

I tried it while sanding on the cedar strip canoe and it was nice to sand without a dust mask!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Aug 21, 2013 7:49 pm

by Cracker Larry

Oh yeah, I do sometimes, sometimes not. It does a good job of trapping the dust in the bag.

Just had another snake attack. Mrs. Cracker was planting some hydrangia bushes in the flower bed and started screaming snake. I rushed to the rescue. It was a terrible serpent

I struggled hard with it, it put up a mighty fight, and it bit me twice

But I wrestled it down and conquered the beast, and released it unharmed

Not sure what it was, think it's baby rat snake. I told Mrs. Cracker there were probably 20 more like that one somewhere close. She quit planting

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Aug 21, 2013 8:25 pm

by Shamrock Kid

Cracker Larry wrote:Just had another snake attack. Mrs. Cracker was planting some hydrangia bushes in the flower bed and started screaming snake. I rushed to the rescue. It was a terrible serpent

I struggled hard with it, it put up a mighty fight, and it bit me twice

That snake is Huge!!!! I would of had to break out the 12 gauge.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Aug 21, 2013 8:53 pm

by peter-curacao

Shamrock Kid wrote:
That snake is Huge!!!! I would of had to break out the 12 gauge.

His grass is huge also!

It's like Honey, I Shrunk the Kids

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Aug 21, 2013 9:00 pm

by pee wee

Maybe if you held it up with a toothpick and arm extended toward the camera, used a wide angle lens . . .

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Aug 21, 2013 9:39 pm

by Steven

Wife and kids surprised me with 2 fresh crab cakes overnighted from Costas Inn in Baltimore MD. 8oz of solid backfin each. No breaded fillers. Seasoned the way a MD crab cake should be. Baked them and OMG!!!!! So good. My girls now love crab cakes.

What a great surprise.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Aug 21, 2013 10:45 pm

by ks8

well... that spider has got to be 7 feet across. easy target, but don't miss the kill shot. where is it on a spider that big anyway?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Aug 21, 2013 10:49 pm

by Rogerdog

"20 more like that one" -- you are very bad man.

The boat is looking sweet.

Keep prayin for rain!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Aug 21, 2013 11:12 pm

by Bowmovement

Cracker Larry wrote:Still raining, got plenty to send, just don't know how Talk to the big man in charge.

We're lucky in that we have plenty of easily caught crabs, shrimp, oysters, clams, and fish if you know how. Our pluff mud makes it all taste better too Nothing fancy...just steam them and dump them on the table and eat them

That's the way its done right there!!

Matt

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Aug 23, 2013 10:06 pm

by Cracker Larry

Whew! I'm sure glad this stage is behind me and not in front of me any longer

Got to get everything prepped and organized. It's 95 degrees so need to work fast and steady, in a relaxed sort of way

Then just get her done.

Took a long time and a lot of epoxy, dog was slap wore out from watching, from in front of the fan. He doesn't like his picture taken though.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Aug 23, 2013 10:30 pm

by Jterry2265

Looks good hope mine comes out half as good.
How big a fuel tank are you putting and where?
I order a 19gal for mine.plan on putting it up front.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 24, 2013 12:02 am

by ks8

I really like the lines you cut on the transom and bow.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 24, 2013 6:24 am

by Rogerdog

It's looking super!

Do you glass the insides of each side where there was no cloth in the photos?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 24, 2013 7:54 am

by topwater

Nice glass work Larry , Build on .

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 24, 2013 8:17 am

by Cracker Larry

Looks good hope mine comes out half as good.
How big a fuel tank are you putting and where?

It will, just take it one step at a time

We are going to use a big tank, something about 40 gallons under the bow deck.

Do you glass the insides of each side where there was no cloth in the photos?

Yes, have to cut some filler pieces for those spots. Ran out of energy and rollers. This took 12 rollers and almost 3 gallons of epoxy

Need another trip to Lowes.

I really like the lines you cut on the transom and bow.

It was a group decision, looks good I think.

Nice glass work Larry , Build on

Thanks John. Don't know how you glass that big girl you're building, this one is about my limit.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 24, 2013 11:51 am

by Knottybuoyz

Cracker Larry wrote:Yes, have to cut some filler pieces for those spots. Ran out of energy and rollers. This took 12 rollers and almost 3 gallons of epoxy Need another trip to Lowes.

I spill that much epoxy on myself before breakfast!

The guys at Lowes know me by name and usually have the bulk cases of rollers right up front ready for me to pick up!

Nice work Larry. Carry on and stay cool!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 24, 2013 1:57 pm

by Cannonball

Great glass work, and I like the looks of that prep table

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 24, 2013 5:32 pm

by Cracker Larry

I spill that much epoxy on myself before breakfast!

I don't doubt it, I can imagine how much epoxy it takes to build a TW28

I'm a dusty Cracker again today

Sanding this thing is actually easier than glassing it was.

One of the next things I'll do is install a transom drain and lifting rings, so I can wash it out with a hose instead of using vacuum and air gun

Then it's on to stringers and frames.

And it's still raining

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Aug 26, 2013 9:12 pm

by Cracker Larry

Still building. We've had a couple of the nicest weather days that we've had in months

Made another trip to Lowes to restock on rollers, brushes, cups, mixing sticks, sanding disks, and a trip to the liquor store, re-supplied for another week

Primed the bottom edges of the stringers with epoxy before installation..

Also laminated together a 1" thick piece of plywood about 1' square. I'll cut backing blocks for the lifting eyes from this. It's ugly right now with a piece of railroad track sitting on it, but it won't be later

After the epoxy on the stinger edges dried we put them back in the boat. When I took them out they had matched the hull shape perfectly, but when I put them back in there was a 1" gap at the bow section

Hull has obviously sagged some since we took the frames out and we don't want no droopy bow! Got to fix that right now. We can bend the hull but we can't bend the stringers. Re-installed the eye bolt in the bow and hooked it up to the come along. Gave it few cranks until the hull met the stringers correctly again and blocked it into place. Positioned the stringers using temporary 2X4s to keep them spaced, straight and square, and plastic spacers underneath to maintain a consistent glue gap.

Tack glued them in about 8 small spots each. When this cures we can remove all the spacers and permanently glue, fillet and tape them. That's next

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 27, 2013 11:19 am

by ks8

Wouldn't want to justify a graphic of Deputy Droop Along on the side of that hull....

... unless its by choice ...

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 27, 2013 2:09 pm

by PastorBob

Larry Looking Good!
I have a question for you... We're looking at coming down but can't make it till end of sept / oct would it be worth it for the fishing? My wifes grandfather passed a couple of years ago but they still have the place on sapelo sound. We are thinking of coming and staying and fishing. Possibly buying the place with other family members.
Been a crazy few years.. new place / planted a new church / wife went through thyroid cancer / I'm still trying to get fixed up from our wreck 3 years ago...
Hoping we can get the place.. would love to have you and Dori come sometime.
Best Regards Friend!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 27, 2013 2:45 pm

by Cracker Larry

Hey Bob, it's great to hear from you

Where are you now?

Sapelo is great, I'd buy it in a second. Sept., Oct and November are probably the 3 best months for inshore fishing here. Redfish, trout, flounder, shrimp, oysters, clams, crabs, those months have it all. The hard part is deciding what to fish for, or whether to go hunting instead of fishing

Call me when you come.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Aug 30, 2013 9:12 pm

by Doc_Dyer

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 31, 2013 6:02 pm

by Cracker Larry

Patience Doc! Don't be thumping those hot dog fingers at me big fella

If my client was as impatient as you, I'd have to fire him

The moon, tides and weather were perfect this week for fishing, and not so perfect for boat building, just too dang hot. I needed a break anyway and my spirit said fish, so guess what I've been doing ? Wearing out the redfish and trout, that's what

Did get back on it today, almost finished glassing in the stringers and motor well sides. I'm behind on pictures too, will try to get updated soon. Holiday weekend now and there's no way I'm going in the river with the yahoos, so I'll celebrate Labor Day by laboring on the GF18

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 31, 2013 6:38 pm

by ks8

sounds good.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 31, 2013 8:09 pm

by Cracker Larry

This is where I was before I took a short break..

Another 128 feet of tape and another gallon of epoxy

Half the stringers taped..

Prime, fillet, tape, 2 layers each side of each, do it again, over and over. 96 degrees, sweat in eyes, more sweat on tape than epoxy, bugs biting, can't swat, brain baking, can't think, back bent over way too long... time to walk away and go fishing. The river is good for the soul, make me remember why we do this

Back working on the boat all day today, about finished with the stringers and ready to start frames.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 31, 2013 8:58 pm

by Rogerdog

Client went Frippin! Fish on Cracker.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Sep 01, 2013 6:49 am

by Cracker Larry

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Sep 01, 2013 8:37 am

by Shamrock Kid

Cracker Larry wrote:

It's funny I look at your work and its so clean and nice. Then I look at mine and its not so clean and nice. Your experience realy shows in your work, nice job. You make it look easy in your post. But I know it's not easy that's why mine looks the way it does.

Thanks for taking the time to post I look forward to reading them.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Sep 02, 2013 10:22 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks John. It's just a matter of practice, my first boat didn't look this neat either. After a couple thousand feet of tape you get pretty good at it

Finally finished up glassing the stringers and motor well sides. Glad those stringers are over with, they took about 3 times longer than I thought they would. Now we can start on the frames, they should go faster. The motor well bulkhead will be next.

Laboring on Labor Day, letting the 9-5 folks have the river to themselves..

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Sep 02, 2013 11:45 am

by wegcagle

Great work and embarrassingly clean as usual. Does the monotony ever get old?

Laboring on Labor Day, letting the 9-5 folks have the river to themselves..

I'm with you. On call at the hospital today just means that my next couple of weeks are looking better

I'm trying to find some time to go fishing with you, but SWMBO seems to have a neverending list of honey dos

Last night I told her to pick the top 3 on her list, and after that I was finishing the boat......that didn't work out too well for me

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Sep 02, 2013 2:29 pm

by Cracker Larry

Does the monotony ever get old?

Yes, sometimes, then I go fishing

I'm trying to find some time to go fishing with you, but SWMBO seems to have a never ending list of honey dos

Uhh-hmmm... you are less than 2 hours away. I've got a very understanding boss

Make that bosses. They all know that I've got to fish when my spirit says fish, we make that clear up front

Anytime you are free for a day let me know. Try to avoid full moons

We cleaned up all of the last taping, trimmed the edges, gave it all a light sanding, then cleaned up the mess. Got it ready for glassing the frames, just in time to make the neighborhood BBQ

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Sep 02, 2013 4:40 pm

by wegcagle

Try to avoid full moons

And one of the highest tides I've seen in a long time. Still can't figure out why the fish had lock jaw that day

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 07, 2013 4:23 pm

by Cracker Larry

I'd better post a few pictures before Doc starts tapping those fingers again

Motorwell frame fitted and primed.

Filleted and taped, all wet on wet, a little at a time. It's been 95 every day, got to pace myself

Both sides..

Started working on the cleats for the aft decks and motor well. Need a little more pondering on some. I often spend more time pondering than actually working

Moving slow in the heat, but working it out and still moving. Fall is near

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 07, 2013 4:45 pm

by Rogerdog

In the center well, would it make sense to have the deck flat and even with the decks on the two side compartments for a space of maybe 5 inches before angling back to that rear cleat? It would give a spot for some of those drink holders for a person on the rear bench. If it would interfere with motor tilt, could the flat part described above be lowered a couple of inches?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 07, 2013 6:26 pm

by Cracker Larry

Yes, that's exactly how I was pondering it to work out

Something like this... We've got to fit in all the shiny parts

I don't think it will interfere with tilting the engine. Since our jack plate has a 5" set back we should be able to set back the motor well that much and still have plenty of engine clearance.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 07, 2013 6:50 pm

by Rogerdog

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 07, 2013 6:54 pm

by gstanfield

Sharp work as always pard!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 07, 2013 8:31 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thank ya George

This is just a basic mock up, the idea is that the 4 rod holders across the back will do double duty for a removable seat backrest. That's Raymond's job

I'll offset the cup holders from the backrest so we can get to the beers when cruising

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 07, 2013 8:42 pm

by Doc_Dyer

Cracker Larry wrote:I'd better post a few pictures before Doc starts tapping those fingers again

Lol I was just about to post my smiley

Lookin good as always

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 07, 2013 9:04 pm

by Aripeka Angler

Nice looking work Captain

I was not too far from your house today. Lots of water in the swamp and big skeeters...

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Sep 08, 2013 6:58 am

by Cracker Larry

Lol I was just about to post my smiley

I knew it was time

I was not too far from your house today. Lots of water in the swamp and big skeeters..

What are you doing, getting ready for hunting season? Lot of water and skeeters in the swamps for sure

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Sep 08, 2013 9:09 pm

by Aripeka Angler

Cracker Larry wrote:
What are you doing, getting ready for hunting season? Lot of water and skeeters in the swamps for sure

Yes, getting ready for hunting season. Bought a pretty nice 30 foot trailer from Seth's parents and hauled it up to our camp that is about 15 miles south of the Georgia line on US-441

Besides the skeeters and water we got a ton of snakes

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Sep 09, 2013 9:02 am

by Cracker Larry

That could hardly be called camping out

Does it have A/C?

We've had the worst year for snakes I've seen in a long time

Got to watch where you put your hands and feet around here.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Sep 09, 2013 11:58 am

by ks8

oops... double post.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Sep 09, 2013 12:00 pm

by ks8

Cracker Larry wrote:That could hardly be called camping out Does it have A/C?

camping in.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 11, 2013 8:33 am

by Cracker Larry

Still at it, still too dang hot,..frames, frames, frames

Hope to get all the frames glassed in this week, then can start on chase tubes and foam.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 11, 2013 10:02 am

by Rogerdog

Is there another frame board that doubles the frames in the latest photo to bring your rear seat height up maybe 6 or 8 inches?
That will give a good wide storage box under a good wide bench, and Raymond will build the backrest separate to drop into those 0 degree rod holders?

Looks good.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 11, 2013 4:13 pm

by Cracker Larry

Yes, but that frame will get glued and glassed on top of the sole. The sole will extend back to the full motor well frame. Foam and chase tubes under the sole. All the intermediate frames are split above and below the sole.

Got another set dry fit and ready to glue, and cutting out the next set. The intermediate molds were first made of MDF, now we have to duplicate them in real plywood and split them up to fit below the sole and between the stringers. As always we use my patented hot glue frame hanging system

I've got stuff going on everywhere, can't hardly walk around here

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 11, 2013 5:09 pm

by Rogerdog

You act like you've done this before.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 11, 2013 5:59 pm

by Shamrock Kid

Cracker Larry wrote: As always we use my patented hot glue frame hanging system

Hot glue is the way to go I love that tip. Its like having an extra hand or two. Thanks!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Sep 12, 2013 12:36 pm

by Cracker Larry

It's great for cleats too.

Still framing. 2 more sets glued to the jigs, edges primed, ready to glue.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Sep 13, 2013 4:43 pm

by wegcagle

Looking good CL. Nice progress

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Sep 15, 2013 7:19 am

by majorgator

I've got stuff going on everywhere, can't hardly walk around here

An older master woodcrafter once told me: a clean and organized shop is not a productive, money-making shop.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Sep 15, 2013 5:58 pm

by Cracker Larry

Looking good CL.

Thanks Will. It's getting time to go fishing

a clean and organized shop is not a productive, money-making shop

.

Seth, at least I'm not zero for 3

Still moving forward..

Frame A fit and primed

And tack glued in place. What happened to my auto-focus

Primed the motor well and aft locker cleats, have got to make a LOT more cleats soon. Making a trip to Lowes in the morning for a couple hundred feet of yellow pine and some PVC for chase tubes.

Have used 14 gallons of epoxy, 100 yards of tape and 4.5 pounds of wood flour at this point.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Sep 15, 2013 9:54 pm

by Shamrock Kid

Cracker Larry wrote:
Still moving forward..

Have used 14 gallons of epoxy, 100 yards of tape and 4.5 pounds of wood flour at this point.

14 gallons of epoxy

that's allot of boat there. And man is it looking good.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Sep 16, 2013 9:14 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks John. Yeah, she's a big girl for sure. I slightly underestimated the scope of this project

Off to Lowes again, more brushes, rollers, a bunch of cleats, pvc.....

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Sep 16, 2013 9:28 am

by topwater

Keep rolling Larry , she is looking real nice

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Sep 17, 2013 6:08 am

by Knottybuoyz

Cracker Larry wrote:Thanks John. Yeah, she's a big girl for sure. I slightly underestimated the scope of this project

Now that's the funniest thing I've read on here all week!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Sep 17, 2013 10:38 am

by wegcagle

Thanks Will. It's getting time to go fishing

Yep. I agree. I'm free Sunday, Monday, and Thursday next week. Any of those days good for you?

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Sep 17, 2013 11:26 am

by Cracker Larry

I'm free Sunday, Monday, and Thursday next week. Any of those days good for you?

Full moon is this weekend. Thursday next week should be perfect for moon and tides, and I can be free. My boss understands my need to fish. Let's do it

http://www.tides4fishing.com/us/south-c ... 170-bridge

Now that's the funniest thing I've read on here all week!

This isn't the first time I've done that either

Rolling on here John, thanks

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Sep 17, 2013 3:50 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:

That looks rock solid captain

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Sep 20, 2013 9:43 am

by Cracker Larry

Sure can't complain about the weather this week, it's been perfect for boat building

Got tired of glassing and decided to drill some holes for a change of pace. I want to get all the hull penetrations taken care of as soon as possible and get them filled and re-drilled. I made a drilling jig/guide for the bow and transom eyes. These long U-bolts are almost impossible to accurately drill free hand, so I made a jig on the drill press that will keep the holes aligned perpendicular to the hull and perfect spaced and centered.

I clamped a guide board across the transom and squared it to the hull, then align the drilling jig to the guide board. Results were 3 sets of perfect fitting holes

Made a large backing block for the bow transom eye, laminated 2 layers of 1/2" ply together.

Drilled the holes oversized, need to fill them and re-drill.

That done, time to drill the transom for the jack plate. Using another of my home made drilling jigs for perfect hole spacing and alignment, drilled pilot holes on centers.

Then drilled them over sized with a 1" hole saw. These will get filled with epoxy and re-drilled to 1/2".

We've got a set of hydraulic trim tabs on the way that I need to drill for also, and a couple of other things, so I'll probably wait and fill everything at once, or not, depending on my mood

Then went back to gluing cleats....

And today back to glassing frames...building on

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Sep 20, 2013 9:50 am

by tech_support

moving right along. Nice jigs too.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Sep 20, 2013 10:45 am

by wegcagle

Nice work. You do have a way of making hours worth of work seem like it just took you a few minutes

I'm definitely in for Thursday as well, if the boss will still let you off for the day.

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Sep 20, 2013 11:58 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Joel and Will. Sometimes I feel like it's a snails pace, still got a long way to go. I'll get there though, one bite at a time.

I'm definitely in for Thursday as well, if the boss will still let you off for the day

Will, I fish when my spirit says fish, and it's saying fish on Thursday

Raymond is probably going with us too. You will enjoy him.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Sep 20, 2013 6:22 pm

by robbiro

Looking good Larry!! Off topic, How is MOM! Been thinking about friends with parents that have had medical issues lately and have not heard an update since she was going to cook the crabs after she got home from hospital.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Sep 20, 2013 6:57 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Robbie, Mom is recovering great

Almost back to normal.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Sep 20, 2013 9:16 pm

by wegcagle

Awesome! I've been wanting to meet Raymond. I'll give you a call to figure out te details early next week.

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 21, 2013 6:52 pm

by Cracker Larry

Great! Raymond is a dang good fisherman too. Between us, we usually can find a few fish

Moving forward....

This is a initial mock up of the footprint of the proposed center console. It's the same size as my OD18, but looks smaller here.

Adjustments will be made as necessary

Need to figure this out now to arrange the chase tubes, T-top mounting and other things. The owner and Raymond are both coming tomorrow for a pow-wow on where we go from here

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 21, 2013 7:08 pm

by peter-curacao

Clean work as always

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 21, 2013 8:12 pm

by ks8

Nice.

Looking forward to hearing the results of the pow wow. Mounting locations for T-top... whether backing pads will be under the sole in those locations, T-nuts or screws, chase tube layout, etc.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Sep 22, 2013 1:06 am

by willg

Wow. What a pleasure it's been to watch your build. Thanks again.

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Sep 22, 2013 6:54 pm

by Cracker Larry

I appreciate the comments. We had a great meeting of the minds today, and I've got enough information to go another month

Between the 3 of us, we're going to build a really nice boat

Mounting locations for T-top... whether backing pads will be under the sole in those locations, T-nuts or screws, chase tube layout, etc.

Stay tuned

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Sep 24, 2013 9:18 pm

by Cracker Larry

It doesn't seem like it should take a whole day to build one frame does it

It did

That's what happens when you stray from the plans and start improvising.

We are adding another frame forward of frame A and putting a curved flush bow deck on the front 24", then stepping down to the casting deck. The bow transom has some camber and the new frame has to match the bow camber along with everything else.

The boat is level and the existing frames are square to that, and square to the earth, so I can initially use a plumb bob and straight edge to determine the rough frame location.

Moving the plump line along the straight edge gives me the bottom position of the frame. This is the advantage to laying out the building jig level. A few more measurements, top, bottom, crossways and sideways gives me the rough frame dimensions, and a thin batten gives me the rough bow camber. I cut this one inch high on purpose.

Now we fit the frame in location and brace it square and plumb with a 2X4 and some tri-squares. If A is square, then -A must be square too.

Using the cambered cut off from the top of the frame, I tweaked that to exactly match the bow camber, then slid it back to the frame and used it as a marking jig to get the exact camber on the frame as on the bow. This is why I initially cut it high.

Then cut the frame again to that line. Now my cut off is an exact duplicate of the curve and it will become the inside gluing cleat.

Picture isn't quite square but cleat is.

It all fits real nice

The bow section will be the anchor locker. This is the initial layout I did and submitted for approval before cutting.

It was rejected

Glad I asked before cutting that hole

Sanded that off with my magic eraser, AKA R/O sander, and did it again. Second layout was approved for cutting. This is better we think. The top of the cut out matches the curve of the deck and the bottom is a mirror image of it. Side radius are from a 1 gallon paint can.

Opinions welcome, but it doesn't matter now, the boss said cut it, so I cut it

Still got a little fine tuning to do to make it just right.

Sanded the boat where the frame will land, in prep for gluing and taping.

Test fit everything.

Then took it out one more time and primed it with neat epoxy.

Hard to believe that took almost all day, but the SOB fits perfect

It takes what it takes. Will glue it in tomorrow.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Sep 24, 2013 10:43 pm

by gstanfield

Not that my opinion matters, but I like it

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 25, 2013 7:28 am

by garym

Looks great.

I see you used a router to make the hatch cut. What type of bit did you use? What was used as a guide?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 25, 2013 9:01 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks George and Gary.

Gary, I cut it with a jig saw, used the router just to round over the edge.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 25, 2013 9:28 am

by topwater

Nice job Larry , i cant cut a straight line with a jig saw to save my life .

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 25, 2013 10:33 am

by ks8

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 25, 2013 1:06 pm

by Cracker Larry

I've got some bad news that I need to share with all my friends here. I can't hardly talk about it, hell I can't hardly type about it. We just found out that Mrs. Cracker has breast cancer and it's not good. More tests are scheduled for tomorrow to determine how extensive it is and where we go from here, but it looks like the best case scenario is that she loses a breast and has to take radiation treatments for a long time. That's if it's no where else. Worst case....well yall know the worst. I don't know what I'd do if something happens to Mrs. Cracker. We'll know more tomorrow but expecting surgery in the next week.

Couldn't sleep at all last night, ended up going to the shop at 0130 and worked on the boat until daylight. Didn't get much done but kept my mind busy.

Appreciate y'all.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 25, 2013 2:09 pm

by willg

Larry, I am very sorry to hear that. I will try to send a PM.

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 25, 2013 2:16 pm

by garym

I'm so sorry to hear that as well.
I know its hard but please stay positive. The treatment options and success rates have come a long way.
My best wishes to you and your wife.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 25, 2013 5:28 pm

by ddbiiz

CL,
Stay strong brother, our prayers are coming in from South Carolina!!!! They can work magic these days and the boat looks great.
Don

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 25, 2013 5:47 pm

by Shamrock Kid

I know we don't know each other at all except for a couple post back and forth. But man I am sorry to hear this news CL. I wish Mrs. Cracker well, and your family. I'm not going to say hang in there or stay positive as I know you already will. My best regards to you and the Mrs's.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 25, 2013 6:01 pm

by gstanfield

Dammit brother I hate to hear this.

I'll be praying and hoping for the best, if you need an ear you have my number.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 25, 2013 6:36 pm

by cali123

Cancer is a really scary word but the modern treatments are improving. I'm sure she will join the really long list of cancer survivors.Hang in there and stay pro-active in the treatment.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 25, 2013 7:03 pm

by wildbill

I can't imagine the thought of it Larry. But I can attest I have some close friends who are survivors and more people are surviving this than not as Cali replied. I wish you and the mrs the best and only wish I knew what to say to ease your pain.

Stay Strong and Have Faith.

Bill

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 25, 2013 7:51 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks to you all. Sure do appreciate it. Thank you. I usually say that this too will pass, but this thing aint going to just pass, or not pass easy, or maybe not at all. My friends sure do help. Appreciate you all.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 25, 2013 8:05 pm

by flattitude 1976

Sorry to hear of the news. I pray that they get it all on the first shot and she makes it through. I have had many in my family get diagnosed and treatments are getting better. Stand by her side and support her through. The struggle to survive is a hard one but remind her that she has plenty of years left and she has to fight. Keep her spirits up as best as you can and remind her she has to fight. The treatments will sap her will to live it is your job to remind her she has a reason to go on. Spend as much time with her as you can. As always God will guide her through the next few weeks/months/years according to his plan. Keep your chin up and know we are here for you. May God bless her and keep her safe.

Mark

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 25, 2013 8:54 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:Thanks to you all. Sure do appreciate it. Thank you. I usually say that this too will pass, but this thing aint going to just pass, or not pass easy, or maybe not at all. My friends sure do help. Appreciate you all.

Larry sorry I'm late to support Dori and you, Keep hope ant faith mi amigo, just talked this over with Gloria she also says , although it is a slab in the face, nowadays it is more then possible a complete recovery will be achieved.
Maybe this help to raise hope and expectations, Lurdes (how ironic) Gloria's sister is also diagnosed and in treatment for breast cancer, for month's now she had to travel almost 2 hours, 2 times a month by bus to the capital, take a cab over there to the hospital take the chemo and travel back to Romana the same way. Not much longer and she has to go in radio therapy (not sure what that is) then she has to make this trip every day.
Now you probably ask yourself how can all this this give me hope and expectations? I understand that, but Lurdes is doing very well, the cancer was that severe she is probably gonna loose a breast, but she's on her way to getting healthy again, and because of the circumstances of Lurdes, I have great hope for Dori, hope you understand what I'm saying, give Dori a big hug from us, we will be thinking of her every day, don't worry about that build from time to time, she (Dori) needs you.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 25, 2013 10:11 pm

by Dougster

I just read this hard news Larry, and can't find words to say how sorry I am. I'll tell Shirley in a few minutes. She knows tales of you and Dori as I have shown her some of your thread pictures. For me I don't know what would be worse, me getting such news or Shirley. I'll be thinking of you often.

Doug

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 25, 2013 10:34 pm

by Aripeka Angler

Larry, Sandi and I are very sad to hear about Dori. We will keep her in our prayers. If you need anything, let me know I will be there.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 25, 2013 10:39 pm

by robbiro

Larry, thoughts and prayers from Central Mississippi for you and Dori. Have been away from the house all day and have jjust seen this. Keep us informed.
Robbie

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Sep 26, 2013 6:01 am

by Oceola

Larry,

My thoughts and prayers are with you and Dori.

Frank

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Sep 26, 2013 7:43 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks to each and every one of you.

Stand by her side and support her through.

You can count on that, been standing there for 40 years!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Sep 26, 2013 8:31 am

by topwater

Sorry to hear the bad news Larry . Cancer treatments come a long way . Keep your head high we are all with you here.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Sep 26, 2013 11:04 am

by bigtalljv

Thoughts and prayers for Mrs. Cracker and you.

My cube neighbor at work is going through the same thing. She started chemo a month or two ago.

Jason

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Sep 26, 2013 11:06 am

by Gramps

God bless you both Larry. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Sep 26, 2013 11:46 am

by Larry B

Just read this, So sorry to hear news like this. As others have said, treatment has come along way. Keep us posted. Hope and pray for the best.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Sep 26, 2013 3:15 pm

by Joe H

Larry,
I'm very sad to hear this news, I don't know what to say except I know you and Dori have our support and everyone else's on this forum, hang in there man and tell Dori the same.

Love & Prayers
Janet & Joe

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Sep 26, 2013 4:17 pm

by cottontop

Larry, I'm so sorry to hear about Dori. Shella experienced the same kind of cancer 2 years ago. Like you, when I found out it was devastating. We were more fortunate in finding hers very early. She had a small "lumpectomy". She then had to endure 33 radiation treatments. The surgery was a breeze, but the radiation was tougher. Shella sure is tough and I know you and Dori will be too. One of the easiest and informative books I got to read was 'The Idiots Guide to Breast Cancer". It will help you understand a lot more without being to technical. If I can find it, I will mail it to you. We will add ya'll to our prayer list. John

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Sep 26, 2013 4:36 pm

by blueflood

Larry, my thoughts and prayers are with you. I cannot imagine the pain.

Marc

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Sep 26, 2013 7:33 pm

by Knottybuoyz

Dear Dusty Cracker & Mrs. Cracker.

I'm not a praying man so I can't offer any of those in support of your troubles. I do have the deepest and most sincere concern for your wife's well being and speedy recovery. If I had to place my faith somewhere I'd put it with science and the fact that today we have some of the best cancer treatments available. I can offer a tribute if that'll help. I can offer a kind word if that'll help. Many of us have been touched, near and far, by cancer and can sympathize with what you're experiencing. Keep us posted on your wife's progress and we'll be here to offer encouraging words if that'll help. If not, vent, we're there for you through thick and thin.

Your brother spirit and in boat building

Rick

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Sep 26, 2013 8:22 pm

by pee wee

Man that's tough news, Larry. I know you'll do all you can to support and be there for your wife, but don't forget to take care of yourself, too. I'm going to pray for both of you.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Sep 27, 2013 10:20 am

by Cracker Larry

We can't begin to tell you all how much all your thoughts and prayers mean to us right now. I knew we had a lot of good friends here, it turns out that we have a lot more that we didn't even know we had. I've had hundreds of emails, PMs, text messages and phone calls from all over the world. I just spent 3 hours trying to answer all the emails from yesterday. If I missed anyone, I'm sorry. Jeff, your email address bounces when I reply, but thank you very much for your thoughts. We are going to beat this thing with all your help.

So we had some more tests done yesterday and a meeting with the oncologist. They tell us that if you have to have a cancer this is a good one to have

It seems to be confined to the milk glands in one breast. They recommend a partial mastectomy, then 2 weeks later start radiation treatments for an hour a day, every day for 8 weeks, then some reconstructive surgery. Surgery is scheduled 2 weeks from today.

What frustrates me so dam much is that it is totally out of my control. I'm used to controlling bad situations, not letting situations control us. I've saved Mrs. Cracker from drowning, twice, I've saved her from pirates, twice. I can fix anything she breaks or build her a new one, but I can't save her from this. I have to put my faith in others and I'm not comfortable doing that. On the plus side, we've got the best doctors money can buy and the best friends money can't buy. We're going to beat this thing.

Can't do anything now but wait. I'm sure glad I have a boat to build, so back to it.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Sep 27, 2013 11:22 am

by ks8

Though we can't ever know 'exactly' what someone else is going through, it looks safe to say that you and your family are not on this watch alone.

That said -- you build, we're watching.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Sep 27, 2013 11:36 am

by wegcagle

They tell us that if you have to have a cancer this is a good one to have It seems to be confined to the milk glands in one breast. They recommend a partial mastectomy, then 2 weeks later start radiation treatments for an hour a day, every day for 8 weeks, then some reconstructive surgery. Surgery is scheduled 2 weeks from today.

Really glad to hear that it was caught early, and that it's at least the best of a bad situation.

Don't forget Larry, your still Dori's rock and her hero. Just because you're not the surgeon removing the cancer or the radiation oncologist doesn't mean that you're not the most important part of her recovery. Let the docs do their thing, let your friends do their thing, and you just concentrate on being there for Dori

You know my number, where I live, and you both know that I can/will be there at a drop of a hat if needed. You'll get through this...Just a minor bump in the road.

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Sep 27, 2013 12:14 pm

by Irish

Praying for you and your wife Larry.
Together you will win this fight.

Cancer is so limited...
It cannot cripple love
It cannot shatter hope
It cannot corrode faith
It cannot destroy peace
It cannot kill friendship
It cannot suppress memories
It cannot silence courage
It cannot invade the soul
It cannot steal eternal life
It cannot conquer the spirit"

-Author Unknown

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Sep 27, 2013 1:18 pm

by gstanfield

What frustrates me so dam much is that it is totally out of my control. I'm used to controlling bad situations, not letting situations control us. I've saved Mrs. Cracker from drowning, twice, I've saved her from pirates, twice. I can fix anything she breaks or build her a new one, but I can't save her from this. I have to put my faith in others and I'm not comfortable doing that. On the plus side, we've got the best doctors money can buy and the best friends money can't buy. We're going to beat this thing.

I understand your frustration in this regards. I am also a very hands on, do everything control freak kinda guy and when my twins were born three months premature at a birth weight of 1lb 6oz it nearly killed me to sit there watching with no ability to change anything! Keep strong for Dori and stay positive above all else. There's not much I can do from across the country except pray and I will continue to do that.

Hang in there pard, you'll come through this and the two of you will be closer than ever.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Sep 27, 2013 1:58 pm

by Cracker Larry

Big loads are sure easier to carry with some help. With yall helping me tote one end of this stick, I've got the other and we'll make it

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Sep 27, 2013 8:19 pm

by gk108

Larry, we know that you regularly deliver boatloads of positive attitude around here. We want to make sure you have plenty of cargo when you need it.

Among other things, I hope the doctors recommend fishing as part of Dori's physical therapy.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Sep 27, 2013 8:26 pm

by Cracker Larry

That said -- you build, we're watching.

You got it. I'll build, you watch

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Sep 27, 2013 8:35 pm

by Cracker Larry

Among other things, I hope the doctors recommend fishing as part of Dori's physical therapy.

Gary, I'm almost gun shy of fishing right now. I had a trip scheduled with Richard and my Mom got pneumonia and had to go to the hospital, we had planned a trip with George and my Mom had more troubles, had a trip planned yesterday with Will and Raymond and this came up. I'm scared to plan another fishing trip

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Sep 27, 2013 8:45 pm

by gk108

Well, about the only other thing that comes to mind is san... err nevermind. Build on dude.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Sep 27, 2013 9:10 pm

by Hope2float

Larry you are a good man and a great help to us all. You will look back on this as a bump in the road. You are in our prayers and thoughts.
Dave

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Sep 27, 2013 10:03 pm

by Rogerdog

That looks great Larry.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 28, 2013 1:21 pm

by flattitude 1976

I am a firm believer that God will not give a person more than they can handle. Even though your plate appears full right now take it one step at a time and one day at a time. This will bring you closer together and you two will beat this. Keep us informed and when all is done and she is healed up it might be time to do some things you may have been putting off.

My MIL and FIL were always busy business owners but as successful as they were they were married to the job. When they finally sold the business and retired my FIL got diagnosed with leukemia and died. During his sickness my MIL got diagnosed with breast cancer. She survived but often says to my wife and I to make sure we take time to do the things we want to do. You never know when your time is up. Spend every moment you can with the ones you love and always make sure to tell them you love them.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 28, 2013 1:38 pm

by ks8

Looks like you can airlift the boat from the boweye. Me likey....

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 28, 2013 3:51 pm

by TRC886

I'm just now catching up on this thread, and I'm sorry about Dori. I understand your frustration of helplessness, but there are times when we have to try to stay out of the way and let others do their thing. Just keep standing by her side, offering support, and know that we will be there with you in spirit if not in body! You both are tough and y'all will get through this!

If I can help, I'm only about 6 hours away.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 28, 2013 4:16 pm

by bernd1

Dear Larry,

the last time I wasn't online - a few minutes ago I read the news - the only thing I can say is just " Stay strong". My wife has in her job a lot to do with cytostatic and she says that today a big number of patients have after the hard time a sunshiny smile in their face.

You will have a hard time but I'm sure you and Mrs Cracker will have the power to overlap this time.

A time that weld you much more together - in Germany we say " Cheer up"

I wish you the best with all my heart

See you soon

Bernd

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 28, 2013 6:11 pm

by whosmatt

A long time away from the board, and this is the first post I check in on. I'm very sorry to hear the news. I have an aunt who is in treatment for breast cancer right now, and what's keeping her and my uncle positive is their family and friends, and their faith. I don't know you except for your advice and assistance on this board, but just wanted to send my regards.

Matt

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 28, 2013 7:01 pm

by Cracker Larry

Dang, I love you guys. Thanks all. Did some more sanding, Gary

Still building ......

The lower cleat is to install a flat deck in the anchor locker. Right now it's a a deep V and would just be a mud trap and it wouldn't drain well.

Had some left over glue from this and used it to fill the engine mounting holes. Put a piece of tape over them on the outside, made a little slit at the top of the holes to let out the air, packed thickened epoxy into the holes from the inside until it bulged the tape and ran out the vent holes.

That came out dang near perfect I think

Going to let them cure another day before re-drilling.

This will be the anchor locker deck.

I'm going to fill the space under that with foam. I want enough foam in there to support the weight of anchors and trolling motor, plus some. I think it's about 2 1/2 cubic feet. Should be fine. Got 3 coats of epoxy in there and ready to pour foam.

Locker deck fitted and coated with epoxy. It took a while to fit this piece just right! Ready to install.

Tomorrow will pour foam, I like foam

And then do something else, not sure what

At this stage there are so many things that need doing, I tend to bounce back and forth.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 28, 2013 7:10 pm

by Cracker Larry

Looks like you can airlift the boat from the boweye.

Guaranteed

I've never been accused of under building anything

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 28, 2013 11:56 pm

by whosmatt

Oh, and the boat looks great

It's nice to have something to work on to get your mind off of things for a while. My own build gave me an outlet during a tough time in my life.

Matt

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Sep 29, 2013 12:06 am

by PastorBob

Tough news... We have spent the last year and a half fighting one of those cancers that are the "best kind to get"... Glad to hear that you are getting positive news and although it takes time and is a hard road you'll get there. We'll be praying for you along the way! Boat is looking great..

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Sep 29, 2013 4:26 am

by stickystuff

WOW! I have been out of the loop for a couple of weeks and come on to find this out. I am flabergasted to say the least. It's tough but we all have had our moments. last year at this time I had to call an ambulance for the wife. when you can't breathe somethings got to give. She was diagnosed with COPD. Has been hospitalized 4 times since in the last year.I am not looking for sympathy but it is something we do to ourselves. We were both smokers and we both have been diagnosed with it. She worse than me.

We all have our loved ones and try to do our best. Life is short. Spend the best times you can for the rest of your life. If Dori is anything like you she will snap back like nothing has happened.My prayers and thoughts are with you my friend.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Sep 29, 2013 6:25 am

by callyb

Larry and Dori, I haven't been on in a long time and I just saw this. It actually made me tear up... It sucks, but F*** Cancer! I know that you are both too tough to let it get the better of you. I will be thinking of you and I will see BOTH of you this winter, as I'll be heading down to Charleston for a visit in November.

Hang in there and please keep us all posted.

Carl.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Sep 29, 2013 2:06 pm

by wegcagle

Dang Larry,

You've got a trick for everything don't you. I have always wondered how you fill those holes so perfect on one round of putty. I never put a slit in the outside tape, and there's always an air pocket on the outside that I have to fill later.

Slit in the tape...That's definitely one for the memory bank.

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Sep 29, 2013 3:29 pm

by robbiro

Larry is after all+++"DA MAN!"

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Sep 29, 2013 3:33 pm

by ks8

yep

CL,

do you ever get an air pocket 'in the middle' of the fill, or, what do you do to prevent it?

and ... do you tape the other side too to prevent a sag that might create an air gap on the 'fill' side. I like to build a little oversize bump on the fill side, and tape it with slight pressure, acting something like a 'bearing buddy'. but that means keeping watch on the 'finished' side to wipe any further oozing, and grinding back the cured 'bump'. what do you do on the 'fill' or 'inboard' side?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Sep 29, 2013 6:12 pm

by Cracker Larry

Matt, Bob, Ken, Carl, Robbie, everbody, appreciate it all y'all. Carl, we better hear from you in November if you are close. We can come to Charleston if you can't make it here. Dori says thanks to you all.

Still building

Attached my drilling jig and re-drilled the transom holes to correct size. That's 1/2". Not bad but I need to build a jig for a 1" hole saw. The mounting bolt holes are just right, but not perfectly centered with the filler holes because I drill those with a 1" hole saw free hand. You can't get them perfect without a jig. Not that it matters a lot, plenty strong, but I like perfect and this ain't quite

Not too shabby though, we can live with it

Edit: Hmm... that hole isn't nearly as shabby as the picture makes it look

I did cut it with a round hole saw

Weird.

Very cool out this morning, had to put on long pants and shoes

Wanted to pour some foam later so set it out in the sun early to warm up. It gets a lot better expansion at 85 degrees than at 55. Warm your foam

Figuring out the chase tubes to the bow area.. I think we will want one each for the nav lights and maybe another for the trolling motor power connection. Got to plan ahead. If I don't need it, I can fill it later. Easier than trying to add it.

This should be fun to trim down flush

I got a little overzealous

That's a tomorrow job. Sure hope the chase tubes work out, because they are set in place forever.

Any extra cut offs and ice cream cones will go into the next void that needs filling. No waste with foam, even in the cups. It is some wild stuff!

do you ever get an air pocket 'in the middle' of the fill, or, what do you do to prevent it?

and ... do you tape the other side too to prevent a sag that might create an air gap on the 'fill' side.

Have I ever? Yeah I have. Not this time though. That depends on a lot of things, the width and depth of the hole, the angle of the hole, the temperature, the mix consistency and I think probably the moon phase

If the hole is big and deep and the temps are hot, the epoxy tends to boil and make voids. Then you have to fill it in stages. The weather and mix was perfect when I did this yesterday and all I had to do was fill it once and strike the inside off a little higher than flush with a putty knife. It stayed put right there. Sometimes I have to tape it on the inside to hold it in place, not this time. The moon was right

It always tends to shrink a little when it cures so I try to fill it fat on both sides then sand it down flush. Like I said, make the tape bulge, strike it off a little high and it will shrink to almost perfect, then 30 seconds of sanding makes it so.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Sep 29, 2013 8:19 pm

by Cracker Larry

I have always wondered how you fill those holes so perfect on one round of putty. I never put a slit in the outside tape, and there's always an air pocket on the outside that I have to fill later.

Tape the downhill side of the slope and just make a little slit at the top of the taped hole. Pack it from uphill. Gravity being what it is, it works

Methods that worked last week at 95 degrees don't work this week at 75. 75 is much more forgiving. Last week I would have taped both sides of the hole.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Sep 29, 2013 8:36 pm

by jessfish

Larry I am sorry to hear your bad news. I hope everything works out the best way possible. The GF18 sure is coming along nicely.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Sep 29, 2013 8:53 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thank you Jesse, for both.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 01, 2013 9:07 pm

by Cracker Larry

Got that pile of foam trimmed flat, finally. Used about every small cutting tool that I own. Tight space for saws, busted knuckles, it took a while. That foam dust is a mess too

Then had to figure exactly where to cut the 3 holes in the deck for the chase tubes. It's got to be just right or it won't fit. Measured the hole locations about 18 times in each direction, drilled them once. Better to spend 2 hours measuring and pondering than 2 days making another one. Matched it perfect first try, I like perfect

Will fill in around the tubes with thickened epoxy to seal them.

Then pulled the sole section out again and gave the holes 2 coats of epoxy, and another (3rd ) coat on the bottom side. Ready to glue it down tomorrow, and maybe get it glassed too.

The piece in the background is part of the motorwell. Another work in progress

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 02, 2013 5:20 am

by stickystuff

I see Ol'Yeller is keeping you on your toes. Ya never seise to amaze me ol man.You have the patience ofJob.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 02, 2013 9:37 am

by Cracker Larry

Just stubborn, Ken

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 02, 2013 2:43 pm

by MarkOrge

Just catching up after a while - sorry to hear the news Larry. we don't know each other personally but prayers are with you and Dori. I don't know what else to say, I lost my both my parents within a few months, then my job, just a couple years ago and the boat project helped for sure - it's a good medicine.

Some day I would like to hear about the pirates.... but I know exactly what you mean to be torn up when someone you love is not well and there is not a damn thing you can do about it.

Big Hug Bro,

Mark

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 02, 2013 4:30 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thank ya Mark, it really means a lot knowing so many people are thinking about her.

It takes late nights and rum drinks to talk about pirates

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 02, 2013 5:07 pm

by Cracker Larry

Decided to glass the anchor locker deck before installing it, so I don't have to fit wet glass around the chase tubes. That would be a mess.

Also wasn't quite happy with my motor well arrangement. Scrapped that one and built another, that's what I do when I'm not happy

Wet out the glass on the anchor deck and primed the new motor well parts.

While that's curing, the next mission, by owner request, is to cut down the casting deck frame 3 inches. This is to allow for the thickness of the upholstery cushions on the front couch

It's a tricky cut in this position. I install a saw guide for both the horizontal and vertical cuts. This will guide the trim saw..

And a wood block aligned with that guides the hand saw for the vertical cuts. For some things hand tools are best. Make the vertical cuts first.

Then the horizontal cut. I left the frame ears a little fat, might need to shape those a bit.

Sanded that and fitted an inside gluing cleat..

Then began pondering the deck height, it needs a little slope to drain, then fuel tank space, plumbing, wiring,...lot to think about. My client bought me a drink or two while I was pondering. He just doesn't know it until now

No more decisions until tomorrow

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 02, 2013 5:38 pm

by Rogerdog

That looks good.

Drink up Cracker

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 02, 2013 7:42 pm

by Cracker Larry

The big brown truck came again today with a box from Bateau marked System 3 Epoxy. Inside it was a thick foam box, and inside that was swordfish steaks

Sweet

Life is good. Thanks Joel, from both of us. And dang you cut some big steaks, I could live a week off one of those

Bateau is full service

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 03, 2013 7:59 am

by Cracker Larry

Uh-oh, looks like my photobucket account is full

Edit: Fixed it

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 03, 2013 8:28 am

by topwater

Ya gotta love that Joel even builds he's own coolers

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 03, 2013 2:26 pm

by antoniekruger

Hi Larry, I saw the bad news. I hope a full recovery for your wife and a stronger Cracker clan after the healing is done. It is not good to see you life partner in distress - good luck guys and you'll be in my prayers.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 03, 2013 7:29 pm

by Cracker Larry

We thank you very much, Antonie

It's really great having friends all over the world

Building on.. got the anchor locker sole all trimmed up and glued in.

Then back to more pondering on the casting deck. Using a variety of squares, levels and clamps, I think I figured it right. Hope so, I've glued it. All square and a little aft slope to drain.

Then took the cleats back out and primed them on the glue side..

Then glued them in.

Then did some more pondering

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Oct 04, 2013 6:49 pm

by Cracker Larry

Finished glassing in the anchor locker, then started on sole cleats. Cut and fit 48 cleats for the stringers and frames

Ran out of cleats. I had bought all the good YP that Lowes had, hope they have re-stocked since then. Need more brushes and rollers again too, reckon I'm going to Lowes again soon. They know me by name

Then started pondering the console layout, chase tubes to it and extra supports for the T-top legs.

I think next I'll get the T-top supports worked out. Sometimes it's better to work backwards than forwards. Got to plan for the finish line and work back from there.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Oct 04, 2013 7:57 pm

by wegcagle

Nice progress CL. That's a bunch of cleats

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Oct 05, 2013 11:03 am

by antoniekruger

Hi Larry, what wood are you using for the cleats? Do you cut yourself or do you get a 'off-the-shelve' size?
The blue ribbed pipes - are those water pump pipes?
Looks very good, mate.
Antonie

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Oct 05, 2013 1:59 pm

by flattitude 1976

antoniekruger wrote:Hi Larry, what wood are you using for the cleats? Do you cut yourself or do you get a 'off-the-shelve' size?
The blue ribbed pipes - are those water pump pipes?
Looks very good, mate.
Antonie

the blue pipe is called ENT or electrical non metallic tubing known in the trades as smurf.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Oct 05, 2013 4:23 pm

by Cracker Larry

Technically it's flexible electrical non-metallic conduit, 1". As flattitude said, smurf tube is the common term in electrical trades.

what wood are you using for the cleats? Do you cut yourself or do you get a 'off-the-shelve' size?

It's clear southern yellow pine. Some is off the shelf 1X1, some I rip myself from larger boards depending on what I can get. It's a little more cost effective to get 1X4 or 1X6 and rip them yourself, if you don't count labor as a cost.

Got all those cleats labeled and primed on all 4 sides. There are 12 different box sections and 4 cleats per section. I labeled each box A-L, and each cleat it's position in it's box. FWD, AFT, PORT, STB. Prime with a roller, flip, prime, flip, prime, flip, prime...

That's a bunch of cleats

It sure is

While priming all of these, a huge and furious red wasp decided that it would sting the crap out of my bare foot. Don't know why. I don't bother them, they don't bother me

We have an understanding, but this one didn't get the memo. I first thought I was either snake bit or gunshot. Dang, that wasp had a punch

By the time I finished up the priming, pain had climbed up the inside of my leg almost to joystick territory and I had tears in my eyes

Chewed a big nasty wad of tobacco, slapped it on my foot and taped it on with masking tape. Within a half hour it sucked the all pain right out of there. Think the worst part was chewing the baccy

Thank God I'm a country boy

Quit for the day. The boss bought drinks

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Oct 07, 2013 6:38 pm

by Cracker Larry

Well, I screwed something up and made a bad mix of epoxy. 48 hours and no cure. Had to clean them all off and re-do

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Oct 07, 2013 10:33 pm

by justin_dwyer

That is just painful Cracker!!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 08, 2013 12:02 am

by Doc_Dyer

Musta been that wasp poison cloudin your mixin mind

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 08, 2013 9:44 am

by Cracker Larry

Yep, it was painful. A big sticky mess. Oh well, I was overdue. Go ahead and get it out of the way now. I'll be real careful mixing for a while

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 08, 2013 11:31 am

by wegcagle

Ouch, I would've been tempted to just chunk the wood and cut new strips! I haven't found a good way to clean a bad batch of epoxy.

The last bad batch I scraped as much off as I could. Then I tried sanding, but that didn't work. So I ended up using a sanding pad on my grinder which got rid of the epoxy, but made a bit of a mess with the wood

Any secret Cracker tricks?

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 08, 2013 11:55 am

by ks8

edited.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 08, 2013 12:20 pm

by Cracker Larry

Nah, I mixed the epoxy before the wasp and before the drinks, so can't blame it on anything except I made a mixing mistake of some sort

It happens, hope it's the worse mistake I make this week.

Any secret Cracker tricks?

Don't try to sand it

Putty knife, acetone, alcohol, lacquer thinner, lots of rags, whatever it takes, cuss it good and move on. There ain't no silver bullet here

I would've been tempted to just chunk the wood and cut new strips!

It was a days work to clean it, or a day and a half to re-fit 48 pieces of wood, not to mention having to drive 50 miles to get the wood, and the cost of it. This clear yellow pine isn't cheap either, almost $1 a foot. More efficient to clean it up, but an aggravation for sure. Minor in the overall scheme of things though

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 08, 2013 12:55 pm

by MarkOrge

My wife had the same thing a few months back from a yellow jacket - and the pain went up her leg. Never thought of the chewing tobacco, I'll have to keep some on hand.

Sorry I am laughing, but the way you tell the story is hilarious !

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 08, 2013 12:58 pm

by wegcagle

Don't try to sand it

Yep. Learned that the hard way for sure

Will

FWIW I think your problem was probably the lack of rum at the time

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 08, 2013 2:33 pm

by Cracker Larry

Never thought of the chewing tobacco, I'll have to keep some on hand.

Old country trick, it works quick too. Doesn't have to be chewing tobacco, any tobacco. I chewed up a cigarette. Nasty stuff

You got to hurt bad to chew up a cigarette

You can't just wet it with water either, it has to be spit.

FWIW I think your problem was probably the lack of rum at the time

I like it when the doctor prescribes more rum

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 08, 2013 4:58 pm

by Cracker Larry

Making a strong recovery from our little set back

Raining, windy and cool all day, had to put on long pants and shoes!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 08, 2013 5:09 pm

by Cracker Larry

Almost all of the sole cleats are glued except for the perimeters. Some of them will need to be kerfed to make the bends of the sides, and they will all need some tabs of hot glue to secure them temporarily. Still need to work on T-top and leaning post reinforcements too. And a lot of other things. No lack of work here, that's a good thing

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 08, 2013 6:01 pm

by Shamrock Kid

Your work looks great as always. No shortage of work here either, I just wish it was boat building.

I've been to to busy at work but that is also a good thing.

But I've still managed to sneak in at least one thing a day like you said. Hopefully I'll be able to post an update with pics this weekend. Build on Larry it looks great.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 08, 2013 6:52 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks. Moving forward every chance I get.
I cut kerfs in all the perimeter cleats. To me this is easier and better than trying to glue on a bunch of little blocks. I stack them up and cut them as if it were one board, about 3/4 of the way through. These will bend to any curve. I'll glue them on,then fill the saw kerfs. Tomorrow

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 10, 2013 7:33 pm

by Cracker Larry

We got the rest of the sole cleats fitted, kerfed and primed

And then got them all glued in. My dang hot glue gun died just a few cleats into it

With 14 cleats coated in glue and ready to install

I had to quickly revert to old school tactics, in a big hurry

All turned out well though

That's it for a day or 2. Mrs Cracker is having surgery at 0630 in the morning and we've got to get up real early

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 10, 2013 8:03 pm

by Hope2float

Larry great work as always. You are the meaning of BUILD-ON,, It would be safe to say when Larry starts he just keeps on motoring through. And good luck tomorrow with the Mrs. Cracker
Dave

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 10, 2013 8:59 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Dave

After seeing your new build pictures I feel inadequate. Your boat is beautiful

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 10, 2013 9:02 pm

by wegcagle

Nice progress.

Get Dori through the surgery, and know that there are thoughts and prayers headed her way.

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 10, 2013 9:07 pm

by ks8

yes indeed.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 10, 2013 11:05 pm

by Prarie Dog

Great work, looks real clean and professional!!

Let Dori know she's in our thoughts and prayers.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 10, 2013 11:13 pm

by Aripeka Angler

Sandi and I are praying for Dori. Good luck to both of you my friend.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Oct 11, 2013 2:57 am

by glossieblack

Good luck and best wishes to you both from Downunder.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Oct 11, 2013 9:17 am

by Dougster

I'm down here in Texas thinkin' positive thoughts about you and Dori this morning. I know for sure lots of other folks are too.

Says good on you Dougster

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Oct 11, 2013 1:02 pm

by Fred in Wisc

Just caught up after a couple weeks away. So sorry to hear about Dori, prayin' for all y'all.

My wife had breast cancer a few years ago, too. Surgery, radiation, the whole deal. But she's doing great now. I can even joke about "why'd it have to be one of my favorite parts" without getting hit too hard.

Praying it goes the same way for your wife.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Oct 11, 2013 4:16 pm

by flattitude 1976

Keep your head up and I will be praying for you and Dori tonight. Get some rest and try to remain positive. The time she is under the knife will be the hardest on you since it is out of your control. Trust that God will keep her safe and heal her up fast.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Oct 11, 2013 4:31 pm

by Cracker Larry

We sure do appreciate all of your thoughts and prayers. The surgery went very well (as can be) and she is doing OK. Sore, drugged, mean and hungry, that's half normal

Long road ahead but we'll make it. Friends sure help.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Oct 11, 2013 4:44 pm

by Aripeka Angler

Thanks for the update. I am very happy Dori made it through the operation ok

I was going to call ya but I know you have your hands full...

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Oct 11, 2013 4:54 pm

by garym

Glad all went well.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Oct 11, 2013 6:05 pm

by Shamrock Kid

You guys must of popped into my head at least a half dozen times today. Glad to hear the good news! I'm wishing Mrs. Cracker (Dori) a speedy recovery.

Also wishing you good luck,

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Oct 11, 2013 8:08 pm

by Hope2float

Larry
Good to hear it went well with Dori. My hope is for her to have a speedy recovery and she will be in the prayers. Thank you for the acknowledgement of my build, but to say you feel inadequate you must have gottin' to much sun or stress. Just remember you are the MASTER, we are the grasshoppers. It is you who taught us. If you like our work it only means we were listening to what you were saying or showing. Most important is the support you will give to the Mrs. I personally look forward to the both of you beating the shit out of it.
Dave

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Oct 11, 2013 9:10 pm

by Cracker Larry

we are the grasshoppers

You've learned well then grasshopper

I personally look forward to the both of you beating the shit out of it.

Count on it

Thanks again all, got her full of steak and taters and she's sleeping. I won't be long behind. It's not often we get up at 0300

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Oct 12, 2013 6:51 am

by stickystuff

Glad all went well. I am sure it lifted a big weight off of you. Now the rest of the fixin begans. Think about you guys alot. Now you have another project on your shoulders. keep the faith brother. We are all here for both of you.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Oct 12, 2013 8:37 am

by topwater

Glad to hear all went well Larry

Now take good care of her , good women are hard to find .

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Oct 12, 2013 10:23 am

by wegcagle

Glad to hear everything went well. Now the mending can begin

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Oct 12, 2013 5:02 pm

by Cracker Larry

Mrs. Cracker is still doing very good, she slept most of the day and I was able to do a little boat work.

Doc Dyer, dangit, you make me look bad

Much appreciated by her, but don't spoil her now

I think I finally finished cutting all of the below sole support cleats. There are 76 individual cleats at this point! These will support the deck for the fuel tank.

These are for the 2 rear livewell/cooler bottoms. They will be at sole level also and have foam underneath.

Light not very good for pictures, sorry.

Got those all primed and ready to glue in tomorrow.

Time to start supper and she has requested grilled swordfish. I will make it happen , with a little help from my friends

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Oct 13, 2013 10:52 am

by ddbiiz

Hey CL,
Great news about your wife I hope all turns out good. Prayers coming from South Carolina stay strong brother! and as always boat looks perfect

Don

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Oct 13, 2013 5:16 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Don. Staying strong and so is she. The patient is doing great

Building on when possible. Have FINALLY got all the below sole cleats glued in. It feels like a milestone, was beginning to feel like a millstone

Glad to be past that!

Had to get a new glue gun to carry on. Lucky for me that Lowes is in the same parking lot as the CVS pharmacy

More pondering..

The queen says she's hungry again, that's my cue

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Oct 13, 2013 5:57 pm

by Knottybuoyz

Cracker Larry wrote:Staying strong and so is she. The patient is doing great

The queen says she's hungry again, that's my cue

It's our Thanksgiving up here. I'll give thanks for that lil' bit o' good news!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Oct 13, 2013 6:44 pm

by Rogerdog

The battery box/ consol location looks good.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Oct 13, 2013 9:09 pm

by Cracker Larry

It's our Thanksgiving up here. I'll give thanks for that lil' bit o' good news!

Happy Thanksgiving up there

The battery box/ console location looks good.

I'm not quite happy with it yet, but not to worry, I'll work it out until I am

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Oct 13, 2013 9:27 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:
The battery box/ console location looks good.
I'm not quite happy with it yet, but I'll work it out until I am

I like the previous set up, the lower the better imo

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 15, 2013 9:28 pm

by Cracker Larry

Still moving forward.

T-top legs backing plates recessed into the frames. Nobody ever accused me of under building anything

2X6 yellow pine. I want solid for the top legs.

Backing plates and mating surfaces primed. Will glue them in tomorrow.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 15, 2013 9:57 pm

by Cracker Larry

Backing block made for anchor locker drain tube, glued in and drilled for tube. Tube isn't set yet, it's just sitting there.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 15, 2013 10:07 pm

by Aripeka Angler

Great work Captain

You build right/over build and it shows. I am glad to hear Dori is doing well

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 15, 2013 10:29 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Richard. Dori is still doing very good, all things considered

Sleeping a lot and taking it easy. I'm in charge of cooking, cleaning and most everything else right now. She says thanks to Sandi and you for the card. She really appreciated it. Sandi sure does make some nice cards

I'm sure she will thank y'all personally later, but right now I'm the chief cook and thank you committee. We'll get though it

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 16, 2013 6:57 am

by cottontop

The boat is looking fine. The most important thing that you are doing right now is being there for Dori and putting her 1st. John

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 16, 2013 7:39 pm

by Cracker Larry

The news with Mrs. Cracker was not good today. Pathology report says they didn't get it all and we have to do more surgery

On the boat building front we have made some major changes. The original plan was for gas tank to be under the front deck, the batteries under the console and storage under the rear seat. New plan is for batteries to be under the front deck, gas tank under rear seat, console freed up. I think this will all work out better.

Spent half of this day scratching my head and the other half crying

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 16, 2013 8:24 pm

by Aripeka Angler

Wow, I was hoping to hear a better report on Mrs. Cracker

I don't know what else to say except we love you guys and hope Dori wins the fight...

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 16, 2013 8:32 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks my friend. We know you do and we love you too.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 16, 2013 8:50 pm

by willg

I've been reading your posts for a few years now. I'm sure I'm like a lot of forum members and feel like I know you reasonably well, and Dori to some degree as well. I wish her and you the best. If there's something I could do for you, I would.

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 16, 2013 8:55 pm

by JMMGeorgia

CL,
I have read hundreds of your post as I build an OB17. Don't post much but I have learned many things from you and the other guys on this forum. Just lost my Dad 3 weeks ago. He was like you a great inspiration for a craftsman. I am also praying for you, your Mom, and Dori.

JMM

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 16, 2013 9:47 pm

by Cracker Larry

I appreciate you all. I know that we have many friends here who would move heaven and earth to make this better if they could, but there isn't a damn thing that any of us can do, including me. I'd rather fight pirates than this, that's something I know how to handle. This is above my pay grade.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 16, 2013 10:02 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:The news with Mrs. Cracker was not good today. Pathology report says they didn't get it all and we have to do more surgery
Spent half of this day scratching my head and the other half crying

Don't know what to say, this news sucks! and makes me kind of angry, putting men on the Moon, driving a RC on Mars, listening in to half of the world! but stuff like this they missing things?

WTF!!!

Hang in there both of you

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 16, 2013 11:06 pm

by HTJ

Stay tough and keep your head up my friend, I went through the same scenario with skin cancer this year, and had the same 4" long football cut off my shoulder twice.It's painful, invasive and weighs heavy on your mind - but you can and will beat it. The only thing that ended up mattering for me was a supportive wife and refusing (well pretty much) to feel sorry for myself. This is a speed bump for a couple o' racehorses like you and Mrs Cracker.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 16, 2013 11:45 pm

by Mikem59

I was finally trying to catch up on some of the other updates and just now read of the news regarding your wife. As with many on this forum, I don't know you and your family personally, but certainly feel an attachment from reading your build posts.

I would just add that I am a firm believer in the power of prayer and will add my prayers for your wife and your family to all the prayers offered up by all the others here on the forum.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 17, 2013 2:55 am

by ks8

...

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 17, 2013 5:59 am

by ddbiiz

CL,
Sad news for sure, you both need to keep the faith, brother. prayers sent. They say he only gives you what you can handle stay strong!
Don

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 17, 2013 8:47 pm

by Cracker Larry

makes me kind of angry, putting men on the Moon, driving a RC on Mars, listening in to half of the world! but stuff like this they missing things? WTF!!!

Agree. I'm very angry too. I guess that's why they say they practice medicine. And why I don't have much faith in them. Never had much luck with doctors. In the professions that I've had, people expected me to do the job right. These people are so proud of screwing up that they sent me a bill for $18,000, that's our 20% share, and said come back next Friday and they will try it again. Bring the checkbook or the deed to the house. One damn biopsy procedure, that they also seemed to screw up, took exactly 35 minutes and cost $9,700. That's almost $300 a minute to get wrong

That's our new Obamacare policy, it ain't working for us.

The money isn't important though. We've been broke before. As long as we're on the green side of the grass I can make more money. There isn't any quit in us

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/ ... MbH4?rel=0

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Oct 18, 2013 2:42 pm

by BB Sig

Larry,

You have no clue who I am but I finished reading your FS18 build the other day and then your GF18 today. I was utterly breathless when I read the news of Dori. My prayers are with both of you. It is tough being in a situation where you cannot do anything. Trust in God. He holds up the rest when we can not.

You are a true man and loving husband. Keep supporting her!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Oct 18, 2013 4:32 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks for your kind words and prayers. We really appreciate it

Many thanks to Carl and Elena for the flowers, they are beautiful! Dori can't believe how many friends we have on this forum

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Oct 18, 2013 5:51 pm

by Bowmovement

I'm pulling for yall!!

Matt

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Oct 20, 2013 8:17 pm

by Cracker Larry

Appreciate the pulling

Still building on, bouncing from front to back, this system and that, working on one thing while another is drying and I ponder another. It's all got to work together, and is beginning to come together now I think

These are the backing blocks for the bilge pump, bait pump, bait intake, float switch and whatever else we need in the sump. Fitted, primed and glassed. Also more cleats, always more cleats

They are to support the T-top backing. Belt and suspender approach.

Backing plates glued and filleted in the sump.

Cleats for the T-top backing boards glued to frames and smeared with glue, used the cleats just to increase the gluing surface area, probably didn't need to but it ain't coming loose either

While that was curing, we worked on the trim tabs. After much fitting and fiddling got them positioned just right and the drilling templates positioned and taped.

Drilled all the screw holes and hydraulic hose holes, and mounted the tabs.

Then removed everything, over drilled the holes and sealed them with epoxy. Some are finished, some aren't.

Needed to get these positioned to plan for the chase tubes for the hydraulic lines, and figure out how to protect them in the bait well and cooler. I've got a plan for that, I think

I sat down yesterday and made a 2 page written list of stuff yet to ponder

The weather is beautiful, hope to get a lot done this week before Dori's surgery on Friday.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 22, 2013 5:03 pm

by Cracker Larry

So much for beautiful weather

Raining and getting colder. Still building on

I sanded all of the sole cleats flush, smoothed some glue globs, and then gave all the cleats another coat of epoxy.

Cut out and fitted the sole piece under the casting deck, to create a flat surface for battery mounting and storage.

Primed the underside with 2 coats of epoxy

After that cured, I drilled holes for chase tubes. Port and starboard side lights, port and starboard bow speakers, trolling motor, trolling motor charging circuit, and put in a couple of spares just in case

Once that was settled I glassed the top side of it on the bench. It's easier doing it here than in the boat. I pieced the glass in with a couple of scraps of cloth, which is why it looks a little rough.

This is where I drilled chase tube holes in the wrong spots

The tubing wouldn't make the bend. Drilled them again in the right place, Dougster style

then used the cut out plugs from the hole saw to fill the wrong holes. Put a piece of duct tape on the bottom, stick the plug in the hole, pour epoxy around it and glass over it. Nobody will ever know except me and yall

Settled in for the night. I've got some birds that roost every night right over the top of the motor well and leave me a pile of poop every morning. I'd been putting down paper every evening, but switched off to this plastic transom template while I had wet epoxy back there. To give you an idea of the size of this boat, the template is for the transom of an FS18.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 22, 2013 6:12 pm

by gstanfield

Very nice work Cracker. When I hit the lottery I'll take a few months off work and hire you to assist me in building a nice boat. Don't worry, we'll hire out all the sanding

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 22, 2013 6:26 pm

by Cracker Larry

If you hit the lotto we'll hire it all out

I don't know how many more of these I've got left in me

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 22, 2013 6:56 pm

by gstanfield

Sounds good, we'll sit around drinking rum, fishing and "supervising" the build

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 22, 2013 7:51 pm

by Cracker Larry

Perfect plan

If we could just find us a few reliable undocumented democrats willing to work for less money than I do, we could set them up with a punch list every morning, go out fishing and drinking all day, then come home in the evenings and make sure they did it right, they can clean the fish and wash the boat too

But they wouldn't, and we'd have to pay for their health insurance. It would be easier and cheaper just to retire in Costa Rica and fish

Which is what a lot of people with a little money are doing now.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 22, 2013 9:43 pm

by Dougster

Cracker Larry wrote: This is where I drilled chase tube holes in the wrong spots The tubing wouldn't make the bend. Drilled them again in the right place, Dougster style then used the cut out plugs from the hole saw to fill the wrong holes. Put a piece of duct tape on the bottom, stick the plug in the hole, pour epoxy around it and glass over it. Nobody will ever know except me and yall
[/img]

Yep, you Dougstered that just fine

As a technique it works, though I find it leaves me prone to head shaking and blue language. Still, it gets you down the road, in the general direction of the launch ramp. Also, I'm pretty sure a guy that's never gotten it wrong a time or two has also never built a dang boat either!

Still on board Dougster

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 23, 2013 11:28 am

by Cracker Larry

Yep, you Dougstered that just fine As a technique it works, though I find it leaves me prone to head shaking and blue language.

Thanks

I've learned it's better on my blood pressure and disposition just to laugh and fix it.

I'm pretty sure a guy that's never gotten it wrong a time or two has also never built a dang boat either!

Or done much of anything else worthwhile either. If you don't make some mistakes, you just aint living and learning. The mistakes don't matter, what matters is how gracefully you recover from them. Admit them, fix them and move on a little smarter

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 23, 2013 6:35 pm

by wegcagle

The news with Mrs. Cracker was not good today. Pathology report says they didn't get it all and we have to do more surgery

Larry, I just got back from an extended leave. I did not expect to see this. I hope and wish you the best to you and Dori. I know you two are as tough as it gets, but if you need anything you know how to reach me brother.

Will

PS the boat looks great. It never ceases to amazing (and embarrass) me how quickly and cleanly you work.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 24, 2013 3:56 pm

by Cracker Larry

Will, I hope you work clean in your work too

if you need anything you know how to reach me brother

I do. Thanks my friend.

Which one of you dang Yankees left the door open up there and let out all the cold air

39 degrees here this morning, too early for all that. Had to put on 3 shirts, shoes and socks this morning. I hate cold. Heck, I hate shoes too. Need to order some fast hardener, things are curing too slow for my patience. We went from summer to winter, with 4 days of fall in between

Got the casting deck sole glued in and a few other things done. Still moving forward, didn't have to back up today anyway

That's all for a couple of days, surgery again tomorrow

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 24, 2013 6:07 pm

by robbiro

Larry, Thoughts and prayers for you and Dori for tomorrow and the quick recovery afterwards!

Robbie

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 24, 2013 6:10 pm

by Knottybuoyz

Cracker Larry wrote:Which one of you dang Yankees left the door open up there and let out all the cold air 39 degrees here this morning, too early for all that. Had to put on 3 shirts, shoes and socks this morning. I hate cold. Heck, I hate shoes too. Need to order some fast hardener, things are curing too slow for my patience. We went from summer to winter, with 4 days of fall in between

Suck it up buttercup! We don't even put on long sleeves up here till it's -20 or so!

Cracker Larry wrote:That's all for a couple of days, surgery again tomorrow

Best of luck for Mrs. Cracker's surgery. Hoping for the best or results. *fingers crossed*

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 24, 2013 6:19 pm

by glossieblack

May surgery day end up being the day that makes the positive difference. Very best wishes.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 24, 2013 6:28 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thank you all

And would somebody up there please close the door

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Oct 25, 2013 8:49 am

by wegcagle

That's all for a couple of days, surgery again tomorrow

Best wishes to Dori. I'll be thinking and praying for you two today.

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Oct 25, 2013 8:55 am

by peter-curacao

Best wishes, we will be thinking about her, hoping everything goes well this time.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Oct 25, 2013 9:15 am

by Dougster

Same as everyone else, thinking 'bout you guys and pulling for good news.

Doug

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Oct 25, 2013 9:31 am

by Cracker Larry

Appreciate the thoughts, all. 1 hour to go. I'll give a status report later.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Oct 25, 2013 8:07 pm

by Cracker Larry

Whew, long day today. Hospitals wear me out worse than fairing

Hope I never see another one. The surgery went very good they say, and Dori is doing OK. Very sore and drugged, and hungry. I don't know how anybody could wake up from surgery hungry, but she does

Now we recover again and wait for the next lab reports. In the meantime I'm cooking chicken

And then going to bed.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Oct 25, 2013 8:38 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote: The surgery went very good they say, and Dori is doing OK.

YES!!!

Give her our hugs and kisses!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Oct 26, 2013 1:36 am

by Fred in Wisc

Glad to hear she's doing well. Prayin' for good lab results.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Oct 26, 2013 8:28 am

by topwater

Glad to hear the operation went well Larry . We are all pulling for you .

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Oct 27, 2013 11:38 am

by flattitude 1976

Glad she is doing well. Here is hoping for clear margins and smooth sailing from here.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Oct 27, 2013 12:40 pm

by ks8

... and then some.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Oct 27, 2013 6:54 pm

by Cracker Larry

Here is hoping for clear margins and smooth sailing from here.

Thanks! Hoping for clear margins here too. We should know by Wednesday if it's a success or not. In the meantime I'm still building a boat. I've got to do something that I know how to do. Mrs. Cracker is hanging tough and no complications so far

We got the chase tube arrangements all worked out, I think. Everything fitted, pipes cut and holes drilled for almost everything. I made a couple of temporary plywood templates to position all the chases, one for all the rigid pipe and one for the flex tubes.

I think I have all the necessary chases fitted, plus some spare space if I forgot anything. The templates hold everything where I want them.

I've fit everything that I can think of, plus left room for more if we need it.

Then pulled the tubes out again, vacuumed the dust, blew it out, wiped it out and gave all the new holes 2 coats of epoxy..

The intentions are to put it all back together permanently tomorrow. Then we can start foaming.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Oct 27, 2013 7:04 pm

by peter-curacao

Wow that looks bad ass and very organized!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Oct 27, 2013 7:13 pm

by wegcagle

Glad Mrs. Cracker is on the mend

Dang Larry, Are you gonna have enough room to pour foam in there too

That's a ton of chase tubes. I agree with Peter though...Bad ass and organized.

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Oct 27, 2013 10:01 pm

by Rogerdog

I'm glad Dori's surgery went well. Enough with the practicing, eh. Fingers crossed for Wednesday.

The boat looks great.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Oct 28, 2013 2:30 pm

by Joe H

Wow that looks bad ass and very organized!

Yeah, is it me or is this build a little cleaner and more organized then the previous builds?????? (very nice Larry)

Here is hoping for clear margins and smooth sailing from here.

Me too.

Joe h

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Oct 28, 2013 3:31 pm

by Aripeka Angler

Larry, it's great to hear the surgery went well! I sure am hoping for great pathology report too.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Oct 28, 2013 3:32 pm

by gstanfield

Every Cracker build is better than the one before! This is normal, but it's impressive considering how amazing they were a half dozen boats ago and yet they still get better. Just how high can that bar go?!?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Oct 28, 2013 3:52 pm

by stickystuff

Extremely high if he stays out of the bar. I know Cr

acker and he wouldn't have it any other way. There is no skimping here.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Oct 28, 2013 9:50 pm

by Cracker Larry

Great news

We got a late call from the lab and they said the path report is negative, margins are clean and they got it all this time

Practice makes almost perfect, just like boat building I reckon.

Yall almost let me mess up, I forgot the cockpit drains

Thought I had everything, but did an inventory this morning and realized the cockpit sole couldn't drain to the bilge sump. That ain't good. Fixed it with 2 drains, 1 1/2" each. They will be cut flush with the sole.

Just behind these tubes will be another frame, making a rear seat and fuel tank compartment. I can't run the cockpit drain straight through because of the gas tank, so the drains have to run under the sole. One in the center would have worked, but I put chase tubes there already, so this is another graceful recovery

Fess up, fix it, move on. Two drains are twice as good as 1 anyway and 1 off center would look like crap, so we have 2, centered

Poured some foam, obviously, got most of the important stuff locked in place.

Intending to finish up the foam tomorrow. Going to sleep better tonight

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Oct 28, 2013 9:58 pm

by Aripeka Angler

Great news about Mrs. Cracker

That makes my day

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Oct 28, 2013 10:12 pm

by peter-curacao

Thank you for the update on Dori, Gloria and I are very happy! no worries is good
and restful!! hope the same goes for you my friend

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Oct 28, 2013 10:38 pm

by Bowmovement

Great News!!!!

Matt

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Oct 28, 2013 11:10 pm

by Shamrock Kid

Great news!! Glad to hear it! Also glad you remembered the drains sooner then later.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Oct 28, 2013 11:16 pm

by Fred in Wisc

Glad to hear the good news! Praying for quick and uneventful recovery.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Oct 28, 2013 11:51 pm

by willg

Great to hear that news, Larry. Onward!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 29, 2013 2:56 am

by glossieblack

Too often life's not fair, so it's sweet news when the good guys win!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 29, 2013 4:06 am

by stickystuff

Good news Larry. Like you said, rest easy my friend.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 29, 2013 6:10 am

by blueflood

Great news Larry...a huge sigh of relief for you and Mrs. Cracker !

Marc

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 29, 2013 6:38 am

by BarraMan

Larry, glad to hear that Mrs Cracker is doing well!

I gotta thank you for the very detailed description and illustration of your build. Its incredibly helpful for a beginner like me.

Can you describe the purpose of your solid and flexible chase tubes? Apologies if I have missed it in an earlier post.

Cheers

Lee

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 29, 2013 10:38 am

by Oceola

Larry,

Good news about Dori...God bless you both.

Frank

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 29, 2013 10:51 am

by Larry B

Great News CLarry,

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 29, 2013 11:06 am

by wegcagle

Awesome Larry!!! Glad to hear Dori is doing well. Now you two can get past this big ole' bump in the road, and get on with life

Send her my love and best wishes.

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 29, 2013 11:12 am

by garym

Thats great news.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 29, 2013 11:38 am

by garym

Larry - Where are you putting the thru hull for the bilge pump hose?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 29, 2013 9:07 pm

by Dougster

Just read the fine news. I can imagine the relief after waiting for that dang phone call. It's cheered us all up

Doug

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 29, 2013 9:27 pm

by Cracker Larry

We sure do appreciate all the good thoughts. Mrs. Cracker is very sore and tired, sleeping a lot, but doing good. I'm still cooking, cleaning, washing clothes and building a boat

Can you describe the purpose of your solid and flexible chase tubes?

The 2 forward most flex tubes are for the port and starboard nav lights, and port and starboard fwd speakers. The other one on the port side forward is for the trolling motor power cable. There is also a forward flex chase for trolling battery charging wires, and a spare in case I forgot something.

The flex tubes to the aft corners are for the rear stereo speakers, port and starboard, plus the fuel tank sending unit. And anything else I forgot. I have to plan for my forgetfulness

The rigid pipes will house hydraulic steering tubing, hydraulic trim tab tubing, throttle and shift cables, engine wiring harness, battery cables, bilge pump and bait pump wires, fish finder transducer cable, and an extra in case I forgot anything. Did I mention that

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 29, 2013 10:12 pm

by Cracker Larry

In boat building news, I trimmed off yesterdays foam pours, then mixed and poured the rest of 6 gallons of foam today. Weather was perfect, 85 degrees, left the jugs in the sun all day for maximum expansion. I thought 6 gallons might be enough, but I was wrong again

This boat keeps proving to be larger than my thinking.

It's certainly enough foam to float the boat, but not enough to fill all the compartments. I made sure the rear end was full, to float the motor...

And the spaces under both rear lockers that will be insulated bait tank and cooler are full ..

And a large chunk of the forward areas...

But it's not enough, probably need 3 more gallons to completely fill it all. This is a lot of boat

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 29, 2013 10:34 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:This boat keeps proving to be larger than my thinking.

Ha! I told you before

twice!

http://forums.bateau2.com/viewtopic.php ... 80#p316457
http://forums.bateau2.com/viewtopic.php ... 00#p317321

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 29, 2013 10:45 pm

by Cracker Larry

How do you pull up those references to my misjudgements so quickly

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 29, 2013 10:51 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:How do you pull up those references to my misjudgements so quickly

LOL sometimes I remember things! not often but it happens!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 29, 2013 11:09 pm

by Cracker Larry

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 30, 2013 4:19 am

by BarraMan

Can you describe the purpose of your solid and flexible chase tubes?

Thanks for the reply - much appreciated!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 30, 2013 7:49 am

by stickystuff

Be thankful ya aint building the XF 20. Its a monster comparedto the 18. Glad all is well on your end. Keep the faith brother.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 30, 2013 1:11 pm

by SmokyMountain

Great news Larry. I'm so glad everything's working out with Dori. You build is excellent as usual.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 30, 2013 3:17 pm

by Prarie Dog

Very good news about Dori, Larry. As usual, your building skills are amazing.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 30, 2013 4:24 pm

by ddbiiz

Hey CL,
not going to tell ya how great the boat is, that would over shadow the GREAT news

. Hope all is well!!
P.S. The dam boat looks good

Don

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 30, 2013 6:37 pm

by Joe H

Great news Larry, great news.

Joe H

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 30, 2013 10:33 pm

by ks8

Yes

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 31, 2013 8:50 am

by BB Sig

Great news! I am sure she appreciates you taking over the household chores.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 31, 2013 9:19 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks all for the comments and support, yall do make the load lighter

Trimmed down all the foam muffin tops flush yesterday. That's a heck of a knuckle busting job, got blood everywhere

I've come up with an idea for building a foam cutting saw, with a wide flat blade and handles on the top like a long board

This would let the saw follow the stringers and frames flush, and let you get some leverage on it, while keeping you from slamming your knuckles with every saw stroke.

I put all the cut-offs into the next voids to pour, no need to waste any. More foam is on the way.

Cape Man and Miss Patti are coming in this afternoon and spending the night. Can't wait to see Craig and Patti again, it's been too long

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 31, 2013 10:03 am

by Steven

Cracker Larry wrote:Thanks all for the comments and support, yall do make the load lighter

Trimmed down all the foam muffin tops flush yesterday. That's a heck of a knuckle busting job, got blood everywhere I've come up with an idea for building a foam cutting saw, with a wide flat blade and handles on the top like a long board This would let the saw follow the stringers and frames flush, and let you get some leverage on it, while keeping you from slamming your knuckles with every saw stroke.

I put all the cut-offs into the next voids to pour, no need to waste any. More foam is on the way.

Cape Man and Miss Patti are coming in this afternoon and spending the night. Can't wait to see Craig and Patti again, it's been too long

Great news on Mrs. Cracker!!!!!!

You idea on foam saw is what I did minus the handles. The handles would be a good addition. I used a miter saw blade for the following type saw. Replacement blades are around $15.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 31, 2013 11:11 am

by pee wee

My hacksaw is capable of mounting the blade perpendicular to the handle for flush cutting, the blade is held to the frame by two pins and tension. The same technique could be used with a bigger blade. Some handsaws have a hole near the tip (I guess so you can hang it on a nail?), take the handle off and attach the blade with a screw at each end to something you can hold onto . . . It sounds like you had it about figured out already.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 31, 2013 11:35 am

by peter-curacao

Larry I had this Idea when I was pouring foam but I didn't make it, basically it's something like this http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SCbEeW_n7OU but on a bigger scale, not sure if it works on the foam we use, I think it will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Nov 01, 2013 10:00 am

by Cracker Larry

Peter, I was also thinking about some kind of wide hot knife like that. Got to be better than a hand saw. Oh well, almost finished with this one anyway, maybe for the next boat

Cape Man and Patti arrived early afternoon and stayed until this morning. We had a great dinner of Bateau caught fish

A couple of Joel's swordfish steaks and a couple of grouper steaks caught with Aripeka Angler, blackened on the grill. Fantastic! Now I'm out of both, must be time to go fishing. Sure was good seeing Craig again

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Nov 01, 2013 1:55 pm

by Fred in Wisc

I have found this dovetail/ jamb saw works well. You can even swing the blade to cut from either direction. Only down side is the depth of cut is only about 2.5" due to the rigid back on the blade, so I saw it in as far as it goes, and then down from the top until close to the horizontal cut, then snap the foam piece off. I think it was only like $15 so not an expensive tool.

http://www.irwin.com/tools/handsaws/pro ... iljamb-saw

Otherwise the Fein or Rockwell oscillating tools work well, but again have a limited depth of cut. Too bad there isn't a half round blade about 6"-8" in diameter for that.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Nov 01, 2013 6:22 pm

by Cracker Larry

Fred, I've got a back saw like that, but the handle doesn't rotate. Maybe I need to look at it closer

I also use the multi-tool, and you're right, if you could get an 8 or 10" blade it would be hard to beat. I've got an old handsaw that I'm going to do some modifications to.

Big brown truck just left, more foam in hand. Joel was on the ball this week, ordered Wednesday morning, arrived Fri afternoon, that's quick service

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Nov 01, 2013 11:13 pm

by Fred in Wisc

Cant really see in the pic dut the handle is offset so you can saw flat. I will try to get a better pic.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Nov 02, 2013 9:51 am

by TRC886

That's great news about Dori

Thoughts and prayers for a speedy recovery!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Nov 03, 2013 7:58 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks my friend. She's doing a little better every day, supposed to be returning to work tomorrow but I don't think she's quite ready. She does

I think she's tired of me

Mixed and poured a few batches of foam yesterday, but it was too cool at 65F to get good expansion. No need to waste it, it will be 80 again later in the week. Got plenty of other stuff to do, will wait a few days for that. First fire in the fireplace this season tonight.

I found almost exactly the type of foam saw that I had in mind, only this one is in miniature to what I envision. This is called a door jamb saw, got it at Lowes for $15. Great for tight spots, teeth on both edges, good offset handles with leverage, but if it had a 30" long blade about 8" wide, that tapered to a point, with teeth on both sides, it could span stringers and frames for a clean flush cut, without bloody knuckles.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Nov 03, 2013 8:32 pm

by Cracker Larry

I made some backing blocks for the forward nav lights and the stern lifting rings, and a few more cleats for the bow deck, and a few other things, gave them a primer of epoxy.

Worked out the forward nav light positions, meeting the field of vision requirements as close as possible, visable head on to 12.5 degrees aft the beam on each side. Used a protractor, straight edges, string down the center line and string 102.5 degrees from the center. Probably closer than most factory installs.

Then made a template for cutting out the light fixtures and drilling the mounting holes. I made it double sided so all I had to do was flip it to use it on both sides. Always better to make a template first and get it just right, rather than screw up the side of the boat

Crappy picture..

Center lines and drill centers for hole saw marked

Positioned on boat..

Positions marked...

Backing blocks glued on, held in place with temporary screws though the mounting holes..

After the glue cures I'll cut out the recesses for the lights.

Glued on the backing blocks for the stern eyes too, didn't take a picture. Still moving forward

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Nov 03, 2013 9:08 pm

by willg

That rub rail looks awesome, Larry.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 04, 2013 9:37 am

by Cannonball

Hell of a good find on that saw for the foam. That wore me out, I finally just strapped on some 36 grit to a longboard and took out my frustrations on the foam!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 04, 2013 3:59 pm

by Cracker Larry

I really dislike sanding foam

Nasty stuff.

That rub rail looks awesome, Larry.

Thanks, I like it too. Didn't think I would like it so wide, but it looks good on this boat.

Stopped the drill just in time today

I had chucked up the hole saw this morning to cut the light holes, then decided to go inside to freshen my drink and check my email first. Had a message from my client that he has decided against the shark eye lights, dang sure glad I read that before drilling the holes

Didn't get a lot done, too cold for epoxy or foam right now. It will be warm again in a couple of days. We've got some fast hardener on the way to speed things up.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 04, 2013 6:37 pm

by Shamrock Kid

Cracker Larry wrote:Stopped the drill just in time today I had chucked up the hole saw this morning to cut the light holes, then decided to go inside to freshen my drink and check my email first. Had a message from my client that he has decided against the shark eye lights, dang sure glad I read that before drilling the holes

Yeah that would suck about as much as having to remove a skeg after laying down a couple good coats of graphite over it.

Glad you avoided this one, looking great as always. On another note I like that saw because it does double duty. Foam trimming and jamb trimming, great tool.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 05, 2013 9:17 am

by AtTheBrink

Larry, this boat is looking great! Awesome job as always!

That's too bad about the lights, I though they looked great. But I am sure y'all will come up with something just as good if not better.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 05, 2013 10:32 am

by Cracker Larry

Appreciate the compliments

That's too bad about the lights, I though they looked great. But I am sure y'all will come up with something just as good if not better.

Nothing but a little thing, but it was only a few short minutes from being a bigger thing

I aim to please, whatever it takes, doesn't matter to me

Yeah that would suck about as much as having to remove a skeg after laying down a couple good coats of graphite over it.

Yep, that change sucked. 2 weeks to build the laminated skeg, glue, glass and fair it, and 5 coats of graphite, then 2 more weeks to cut it off, glass the wound, fair it again, then 5 more coats of graphite. Almost a month to get back to even

This little change didn't hurt nearly so bad as that one.

I think we are going to put the nav lights on the T-top instead. They will be a lot more visible up there. One thing to know about the shark eye lights, they are not legal in International waters. International waters generally start 3-12 miles from shore, depending on where you are, and lights are required to be above the sheer line. Below the sheer is legal for inland waters only. Not sure if this boat will ever be in International waters, but my OD18 often is and it's not legally lit when offshore. Never had a problem, but it's something to know.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 05, 2013 10:38 am

by AtTheBrink

Cracker Larry wrote:Appreciate the compliments

That's too bad about the lights, I though they looked great. But I am sure y'all will come up with something just as good if not better.
Nothing but a little thing, but it was only a few short minutes from being a bigger thing I aim to please, whatever it takes, doesn't matter to me

Yeah that would suck about as much as having to remove a skeg after laying down a couple good coats of graphite over it.
Yep, that change sucked. 2 weeks to build the laminated skeg, glue, glass and fair it, and 5 coats of graphite, then 2 more weeks to cut it off, glass the wound, fair it again, then 5 more coats of graphite. Almost a month to get back to even
This little change didn't hurt nearly so bad as that one.

I think we are going to put the nav lights on the T-top instead. They will be a lot more visible up there. One thing to know about the shark eye lights, they are not legal in International waters. International waters generally start 3-12 miles from shore, depending on where you are, and lights are required to be above the sheer line. Below the sheer is legal for inland waters only. Not sure if this boat will ever be in International waters, but my OD18 often is and it's not legally lit when offshore. Never had a problem, but it's something to know.

Lights will look good on the T-Top, not a bad change. I did not know that about the lights position in fed waters. Good to know.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Nov 06, 2013 4:46 am

by ks8

Will you be able to get the motoring light one meter above the T-top mounted sidelights? Mounting the side lights higher sounds good. A little bit more visibility in a minor big water swell. Less *now you see me, now you don't*.

Looking forward to the final layout.

Good to hear Mrs Cracker is solidly on the mend.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Nov 06, 2013 5:49 pm

by Cracker Larry

Will you be able to get the motoring light one meter above the T-top mounted sidelights?

Yes, it will have to be on a folding mast. I've got a 24" folding mast on mine, but they come in 36" too, so we only need to squeeze out another 3 inches, or we'll just get Raymond to build whatever we need

I doubt anybody except Raymond or I will ever measure it anyway.

Working on transom lockers today. First had to sand the foam down flush to the sole cleats, I dislike sanding foam, but it had grown 1/2" since I cut it a few days ago. Both side lockers will be insulated. Live well/cooler on port side, cooler on starboard. Fitted the bottom pieces for both sides, then the upright cleats to support the inner liners.

Starboard

Port

Labeled all the parts, took them out and gave them 2 coats of epoxy. This will be ready to glue in tomorrow. Then will work on insulation and liners. After the foam I'll line it with 1/4" ply and glass it.

It will be back in the 80s again tomorrow, just the way I like it, and I can finish pouring the last of the foam. Been a cool week until today. Cool is good for cutting wood but not so much for gluing or foam. Big brown truck just brought some fast hardener so that will help keep things moving forward.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Nov 06, 2013 8:23 pm

by AtTheBrink

Great work as always Larry. I like your design on those boxes.
We just had our first "cold" front of the season blow thru this evening. It's gonna slow things up some but it sure feels nice.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Nov 06, 2013 9:50 pm

by Aripeka Angler

Nice looking work Captain

I am going to be in Lake City again on Friday, Saturday and Sunday if that will work out for you.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 07, 2013 3:06 pm

by AtTheBrink

Quick question Larry. Are you going with plastic hatches on this one? Or are you going the build them?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 07, 2013 8:04 pm

by Cracker Larry

I am going to be in Lake City again on Friday, Saturday and Sunday if that will work out for you.

I can't make it down this weekend Richard, but I'll get with you soon. Sure appreciate the offer on milling the wood. Maybe I can merge it into a fishing trip in the next month or so, I'll give you a call next week.

Are you going with plastic hatches on this one? Or are you going the build them?

I sure hope we are going to use manufactured hatches, or I won't be finished this time next year

We got the remainder of the foam poured today, and cut it down mostly flush. It will grow in a couple of days, will need to trim it again, but it's all done. That's another big bite out of the elephant

It is amazing how much different foam acts at 80 degrees than at 65.

The big brown truck came again today and brought some more cool stuff

I've got to get busy, running out of storage space for all the cool stuff stacking up around here

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 07, 2013 8:13 pm

by Steven

Looking good. I like the idea of putting the nav lights on the top. Something to consider. He's gonna love that iPilot. That was the best money I spent.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 07, 2013 8:25 pm

by Aripeka Angler

Cracker Larry wrote:
I am going to be in Lake City again on Friday, Saturday and Sunday if that will work out for you.
I can't make it down this weekend Richard, but I'll get with you soon. Sure appreciate the offer on milling the wood. Maybe I can merge it into a fishing trip in the next month or so, I'll give you a call next week.

No problem Captain. When you get a chance to get away, let me know. Bring Dori along too if she has time off from work

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 07, 2013 8:28 pm

by peter-curacao

Steven wrote:Looking good. I like the idea of putting the nav lights on the top. Something to consider.

yes it is very cool, but i don't understand "putting the nav lights on the top" they are in the top bow aren't they?
Am I putting them in the top, or am I completely misunderstand things?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 07, 2013 8:58 pm

by Steven

peter-curacao wrote:
Steven wrote:Looking good. I like the idea of putting the nav lights on the top. Something to consider.
yes it is very cool, but i don't understand "putting the nav lights on the top" they are in the top bow aren't they?
Am I putting them in the top, or am I completely misunderstand things?

I have shark eye lights on mine. Raymond is in the process of building me a T-Top. I wouldn't mind having them on my T-Top as well. Most of my boating is inland or near shore, but I will do some off shore fishing in the Gulf. Not sure I want to worry with it.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 07, 2013 9:23 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks again Richard, hopefully I can get away in the next couple of weeks. I'm in bad need of a fishing trip with a good friend. Don't really give a dang if we just sit and fish off the dock

Peter, what you did with the lights is about what I think we are going to do, except with a fabric top. Nothing wrong with that. They are not "bow lights" as many people call them. They are "side lights", to be visible from the bow to 12 1/2 degrees aft of the beam. I wonder who came up with the 1/2 degree, or who could even measure it ? Must of been a bureaucrat

Your top is sure looking good

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 07, 2013 10:06 pm

by AtTheBrink

Cracker Larry wrote:
Are you going with plastic hatches on this one? Or are you going the build them?
I sure hope we are going to use manufactured hatches, or I won't be finished this time next year

Nah! For a seasoned builder like you, you could knock'em out in no time.

heck mine turned out pretty good and this is the first time out! Like Capt. Ken says "a little wood and a little glue". A skilsaw, a router and a jigsaw is all I used. Took a couple days.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 07, 2013 10:33 pm

by Cracker Larry

Nah! For a seasoned builder like you, you could knock'em out in no time. heck mine turned out pretty good and this is the first time out! Like Capt. Ken says "a little wood and a little glue". A skilsaw, a router and a jigsaw is all I used. Took a couple days.

Hush Mike, my client is reading this

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 07, 2013 10:39 pm

by AtTheBrink

Cracker Larry wrote:
Nah! For a seasoned builder like you, you could knock'em out in no time. heck mine turned out pretty good and this is the first time out! Like Capt. Ken says "a little wood and a little glue". A skilsaw, a router and a jigsaw is all I used. Took a couple days.
Hush Mike, my client is reading this

My lips are sealed!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Nov 08, 2013 3:43 am

by stickystuff

My signature never comes out complete.

"A little wood, a little glue and a lot of love, and she will float."

It may not always be pretty but if she floats then thats all that matters.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Nov 08, 2013 9:55 am

by ks8

about that 1/2 of a degree...

360 degrees divided by three... the worse beaurocrat would have had 1/3 degree on each light.

at least they made it a little easier by making the stern 135°. I would venture to say that the USCG never measures to the 1/2°, but then that would be an invitation to be the regional odd inspection crackdown.

. I've just returned some sidelights after the manufacturer could not tell me how many nautical miles, the amperage draw, and whether or not the mounting base needs to be parallel with the boat's centerline. They are LED and inexpensive, but there's a gray cloud over them when support has to dig that much to find out those specs that other manufacturers have right on the packaging.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Nov 08, 2013 11:07 am

by Cracker Larry

I doubt there is 1 out of 10 production boats that meet the lighting requirements to the letter.

there's a gray cloud over them when support has to dig that much to find out those specs that other manufacturers have right on the packaging.

Under the new rules they are required by law to put that information on the package and the lights should have a certification sticker. See http://newboatbuilders.com/pages/navlts.html for more than you wanted to know, especially if you click on the links to the CFRs

Dang, it's cold out this morning, and real windy. Hope it warms up soon, want to mix some sticky stuff.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Nov 08, 2013 11:21 am

by Knottybuoyz

Cracker Larry wrote:Dang, it's cold out this morning, and real windy. Hope it warms up soon, want to mix some sticky stuff.

I betcha it ain't this cold? Woke up this morning to our first lil' bit of snow! *shudder*

I'll be glad to drop off a load of snow on my way to FLA for you Larry!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Nov 08, 2013 11:23 am

by Cracker Larry

After you spend a couple weeks in Florida you may never go home

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Nov 08, 2013 12:31 pm

by Knottybuoyz

Cracker Larry wrote:After you spend a couple weeks in Florida you may never go home

That would be a distinct possibility except for one thing. The wife would haul my butt home to finish the boat!

Once that's done though we'll be frequent visitors to warmer waters.

Sand on Dusty Cracker!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Nov 08, 2013 6:22 pm

by ks8

though the summer is a bit rough, I'm beginning to like it here now.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Nov 09, 2013 7:53 am

by Cracker Larry

Mrs. Cracker tells me that I have to take a boat break and cut her a truck load of firewood today. My back hurts just thinking about it

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Nov 09, 2013 10:11 am

by ks8

I hear that. Since moving to SW FL, I do miss the availability of REAL firewood, at a civilized cost. I hope you enjoy every minute of the heat and flame when it is called for.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Nov 09, 2013 10:18 am

by Cracker Larry

I've got 40 acres of trees so the cost isn't a problem

It's cutting it, splitting it, loading it, unloading it and stacking it that I'm getting a little old in the bones for

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Nov 09, 2013 10:29 am

by ks8

That is the that that I hear.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Nov 09, 2013 10:34 am

by ks8

bateau wiki-leaks: Another Cracker OD18 is being planned.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Nov 09, 2013 4:16 pm

by Cracker Larry

That was a typo

It's for this boat

Corrected..

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Nov 09, 2013 4:22 pm

by Cracker Larry

Mission accomplished

This is going to hurt tomorrow.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Nov 09, 2013 4:55 pm

by ks8

Cracker Larry wrote:That was a typo It's for this boat Corrected..

Well, I was posting in the spirit of wiki-leaks more than I thought at first.

That wood pile looks like a healthy workout. It should be well worth it soon enough.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 12, 2013 1:21 am

by willg

Larry, r.e. the shoot-through transducer you will install, will it ride in an oil container or are you going to epoxy it into place?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 12, 2013 7:41 am

by Cracker Larry

It will be epoxied in place. That's what I did on my OD18 and it works good. You lose some deep water sensitivity, but this boat won't often be fishing in 500' of water.

My client came down on Sunday for another meeting of the minds and we hashed out a lot of details and made some executive decisions. One of them is to try the caulked plank sole using Boatife Life Caulk method. Should be an interesting challenge and something new to me. I'm going to make up a few test panels to try different colors and hopefully perfect the technique. We've got black, white and mahogany colors on the way for testing, and also some Awlgrip Griptex to experiment with a bright finish non-skid coating. Better to do my experimenting on test panels than to screw up the boat.

It's going to get very cold for the next few days, got to get some propane for the shop heater and move some small operations inside. Plan to start the console real soon too and I can do that inside the shop with the heater on.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 12, 2013 9:29 am

by topwater

Larry cant wait to see what you come up with for the decks . You have to stop cutting fire wood and putting shoes on,
every time you do it snows up my way

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 12, 2013 9:35 am

by Cracker Larry

I have a very fine tuned "cold is coming" sensor

Crazy weather, supposed to be 75 today, 45 tomorrow

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 12, 2013 9:53 am

by garym

I didn't put a fiberglass plug in the bottom of my hull for the transducer. Will the transducer shoot through plywood if it sits on and in a bed of silicone? Hope the answer is yes or I''m going to plan B

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 12, 2013 10:36 am

by Cracker Larry

No,it won't. At least not very good, if at all. It really needs solid glass. With some careful work you could cut out the core to the outside glass, then fill it.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 12, 2013 10:53 am

by garym

That ship has already sailed for me. Plan B would be a hole through the bottom with a backing plate smothered with 5200 sealant.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 12, 2013 1:13 pm

by dbcrx

Cracker Larry wrote:and also some Awlgrip Griptex to experiment with a bright finish non-skid coating.

I'm interested to see this. Will it just be going on epoxied/varnished ply? Only we're working on a yacht at work at the moment that has had some sort of clear non skid put onto a teak deck and it looks crap! On plain ply it might work though.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 14, 2013 9:30 am

by Cracker Larry

We will be gluing 3" wide cypress planks over mahogany plywood. We got the non-skid recommendation from a local company called Release Marine. They build high end (very high end

) decks, fighting chairs, ladders, boat steps, dock boxes and such. It's what they use and claim that it holds up well for years. See some of their stuff.. http://releasemarine.com/
I'm going to try some applications on test panels, but my client has made arrangements for Release Marine to spray it, if that doesn't work out like we hope

Not a lot to report so far this week. Too dang cold for epoxy, too dang cold for me too. I did get all the cleats glued in for both transom lockers. Cleaned up the shop and made room for working inside, filled up the propane tank and got the heater running

Moved all epoxy inside so it wouldn't freeze, put my unfinished GF5 bookshelf on temporary epoxy storage duties..

Cut out and primed 3 panels for sole finish tests...

Warming up epoxy in the sunshine. The black truck bed does a fair job of warming up the jugs

Got a new toy

Finally got it adjusted I think, but my hands and face got too cold to try it out yesterday, it didn't get out of the 40s, with 40 mph wind. Nasty day

The cypress planks are not as uniform in thickness as I would like them, so we're going to fix that.

Heading to Raymond's shortly to pick up some materials we ordered. Maybe when I get home it will be warm enough to do something. Not much above freezing right now

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 14, 2013 12:49 pm

by willg

Larry, I have had what looks to be the same DeWalt planer for over 10 years. I have enjoyed using it and it works very well. You do need to be careful about snipe. I'm sure you'll have it set up and tuned just right. It never hurts to run your boards through a little longer than the final length so you can cut off the sniped ends if necessary. You can also get replacement blades at Lowe's, but I'll bet you know that already!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 14, 2013 1:14 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote: We got the non-skid recommendation from a local company called Release Marine.

Looks good to me

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 14, 2013 3:37 pm

by peter-curacao

Larry could you do me a favor, next time you are at Release Marine could you ask them the price range for their battle saddles?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 14, 2013 6:08 pm

by Cracker Larry

I'll be glad to, but the standard model might cost about as much as your engine

Notice that their website has no prices, sort of like a restaurant that doesn't put prices on the menu. If you have to ask, you probably can't afford it

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 14, 2013 6:16 pm

by peter-curacao

This is the one I'm interested in, if I can't afford it, it's always nice to know what I save if I build one myself

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 14, 2013 6:20 pm

by Cracker Larry

Larry, I have had what looks to be the same DeWalt planer for over 10 years. I have enjoyed using it and it works very well.

Thanks. I appropriated this one from my brother who has had it a few years and seldom uses it. It wasn't doing anything at his house but rusting

I've been making sawdust with it all afternoon and you are right, it is one fine tool

I'm either going to have to keep it, or buy one for me

Pictures to follow...

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 14, 2013 7:12 pm

by Cracker Larry

Like I said, this is one fine tool. It will shave 1/64" at a time off a board and make it perfect, and it makes all of them exactly perfect

It also makes a lot of sawdust, sure glad I set it up outside!

I planed out enough to make the test panels and got started fitting those...

This is some pretty wood!

Raymond and I were discussing ideas on the best way to space them and secure them for gluing. We came up with using screws for spacers and using fender washers under the screw heads to hold the planks down while the glue cures. Then fill the screw holes and caulk the seams. Better and easier than screwing into the boards, removing the screws and plugging the holes. It would have to be perfect for that to work well.

I've got them fitted and spaced, not glued down yet. Tomorrow is supposed to be warm enough to glue again. A lot of work just for some test panels, but better to test it off the boat than in it

This is a good place to learn and we might end up with some nice cheese and wine serving trays

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 14, 2013 7:48 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:/2013-11-14_15-26-29_449_zpsa1fa2db0.jpg?t=1384473344[/img]

This is some pretty wood!

Pretty nice work also, as usual! man that looks real good Larry! btw how's Dori doing these days? if I may ask that over here.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 14, 2013 8:07 pm

by Rogerdog

That looks great so far

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 14, 2013 8:16 pm

by Joe H

Raymond and I were discussing ideas on the best way to space them and secure them for gluing. We came up with using screws for spacers and using fender washers under the screw heads to hold the planks down while the glue cures. Then fill the screw holes and caulk the seams. Better and easier than screwing into the boards, removing the screws and plugging the holes. It would have to be perfect for that to work well.

That's a great idea Larry, I'm going to build the RB16 next and the deck will be built on frames, perfect way to hold the planks down well the glue dry's, I did not want to use temporary screws.

I used the same planer (my neighbors) for my windshield, cabin doors and some of the mahogany trim work on the P19, great tool.

Release Marine, wow cool stuff, I will attempt to build a step box like theirs, I'll need two of them for foot rest, Janet's might have to be a little taller, don't tell her I said that.

Joe H

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 14, 2013 8:24 pm

by peter-curacao

Joe H wrote: Janet's might have to be a little taller, don't tell her I said that.

Joe H

What's her email address?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Nov 15, 2013 7:57 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks all, I'm just learning as I go here.

btw how's Dori doing these days? if I may ask that over here.

She's doing real good Peter, but she has to start radiation treatments next week and not looking forward to that at all.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Nov 15, 2013 8:07 am

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:Thanks all, I'm just learning as I go here.

btw how's Dori doing these days? if I may ask that over here.
She's doing real good Peter, but she has to start radiation treatments next week and not looking forward to that at all.

That's understandable, who would look forward to that? wish her well from us.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Nov 15, 2013 8:27 am

by Cracker Larry

I'll be sure to tell her that Peter, thanks.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Nov 17, 2013 7:34 am

by Cracker Larry

Since I already had the planer set up, I figured it would be a good time to go ahead and mill all the lumber for the sole. I sorted out all 50 boards, trimmed off all the splits and knots and squared the ends with the radial arm saw. Then started making wood chips

Most of the boards had 1 clean face and 1 ragged one, and not very uniform in thickness. I need them all identical so had to plane them down to the thickness of the thinnest boards, which took a considerable amount of planing and made enough wood chips to mulch a couple of flower beds.

It took a long while, but dang they sure came out pretty and perfect

Decided to lay them out in the boat to get an idea of how they would look...

I was a little bit short of having enough to cover the entire sole, short by about 3 test panels I think

I believe there will still be enough because I won't be planking under the console, but it's going to be tight and not much room for error. Maybe the boss has a few more pieces, if not I'll make this work.

Sure does look good otherwise though

Bundled them back up and put them inside where they will stay nice and clean until we need them again. Now it's time to fit and cut the plywood for the sole.

Spent the rest of the day cleaning up the mess, got the shop back to normal and ready to move forward

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Nov 17, 2013 8:03 am

by Shamrock Kid

She's going to be one beautiful boat for sure. Talk about attention to detail. I really enjoy watching her come together.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Nov 17, 2013 9:48 am

by Bowmovement

Looking good Larry. I am very interested in seeing how the deck comes out. Its an idea I have pondered for when it time to build. Also considering the GF18 so it works out great.

Matt

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Nov 17, 2013 10:07 am

by Cracker Larry

I am very interested in seeing how the deck comes out.

So am I, Matt

I'm sailing in uncharted waters, just trying not to run aground

Testing all of my carpentry skills and learning some new ones. If I can pull it off, it's going to be sweet

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Nov 17, 2013 10:32 am

by AtTheBrink

Larry, a couple questions. You are putting down a plywood sole and then the planking, right? Are you planking the front and rear decks too? This is going to look very sharp! I like it!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Nov 17, 2013 10:41 am

by gk108

AtTheBrink wrote:Larry, a couple questions. You are putting down a plywood sole and then the planking, right?

I was wondering that, myself. It seems like it would be best for long term stability of the deck structure.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Nov 17, 2013 1:57 pm

by Steven

Looking good Larry. Hardwood chips in a brown lunch bag make excellent fire starters. I stock up when I'm planning hardwood.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Nov 17, 2013 5:37 pm

by Cracker Larry

You are putting down a plywood sole and then the planking, right?

Yes, 1/4" meranti sole, then the 3/8 cypress planking laminated over it. Sometimes you have to work backwards to move forward

Are you planking the front and rear decks too?

We are still discussing that, not sure yet. I am sure that we will need more cypress planks if we do.

Back to those test panels, all fitted and ready for priming..

And primed. This wood really changes color when it has a coat of epoxy on it..

This is going to require a LOT of screws and fender washers

And a LOT of glue..

And a LOT of time..

I may need to recruit a helper to mix glue while I set all the planks, or it will take me forever

It might even take 2 forevers, plus 500 screws and washers. But I'm going to get it done one way or another. Got a plan working now

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Nov 17, 2013 6:39 pm

by ks8

it will be worth it.

no regrets about my transom at all, except maybe that I had shot the clear lpu instead of brushing it. next time.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 18, 2013 8:09 am

by gk108

This wood really changes color when it has a coat of epoxy on it..

Just wait until that cypress ages a little. It's going to be beautiful

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 18, 2013 8:27 am

by Cracker Larry

It's already 100 years old

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 18, 2013 9:03 am

by gk108

I'll never forget the 30' sailboat that I saw in Carrabelle in the mid '70's. I think it was an Atkins design. 100% cypress hull and cabin, built about 40 years earlier. Everything above the rail was bright finished. Deep, rich, dark red that looked as good as any mahogany.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 18, 2013 9:45 am

by Cracker Larry

I bet that was pretty

I probably won't be around to see how it looks in 40 years, but hopefully somebody will still be enjoying it. I love working with cypress, it's very user friendly.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 18, 2013 10:16 am

by tech_support

wow, that is pretty wood.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 18, 2013 4:07 pm

by Cracker Larry

Yes, it is some pretty wood for sure.

Removed the clamps, screws and washers from the test panels this morning. Cleaned up the edges with the table saw, sanded it all good, eased the edges, rounded the corners, cleaned out the seams a little bit. Note to self, go light on the glue, or the squeeze out will fill in the caulking grooves and it's really a pain to get out. This is why we are practicing here and not on the boat

I want to know what the results will be before I start with the real thing. I've also varied the width of the caulking grooves on different pieces to see the visual effects.

I've read all the on-line documentation and seen the videos on how to do this but I still had some questions, so this morning I called an expert, who called a real expert, this fellow here...

There ain't no need to re-invent the wheel

People have figured this out before. Thanks Joe H and father in law, who answered my remaining questions and got me confident that we are on the right tack

First thing I learned was to seal the wood good before caulking it, get in all the cracks with a little brush. Did that, Joe.

Waiting for it to cure now.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 18, 2013 5:30 pm

by Cracker Larry

Not much difference, but they have 2 coats of epoxy on them now. The cheese serving trays are looking good

Tomorrow I'll tape and caulk them. Was hoping to do that today, but didn't get that far. Everything takes longer than you think it will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 18, 2013 5:34 pm

by peter-curacao

Very nice Larry, that are some classy cheese serving trays

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 19, 2013 7:45 am

by pee wee

looks like Santa's elves have been busy, you've got three presents in the making.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 19, 2013 8:45 am

by wegcagle

Everything looks great Larry. You've gotten a lot done in little time (like always). I like the cypress, even without epoxy that stuff is so frickin rot resistant it would probably last 40 years. I think the way you're finishing it, it will last closer to 400 years

BTW I am really glad to hear Dori is doing well, and on the mend. Send her my best wishes.

I am working almost everyday this week and the weekend, but I do have the 22nd off if you still need a hand.

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 19, 2013 12:48 pm

by HTJ

As easy as it is to show my ignorance in the rarefied level of master craftsmen present on this board I am reluctant too.... but heck I just dont' know

- what is the nature of the caulking used to fill the grooves between the cedar planks??

And you and Peter really need to start using rattle can paint and bondo on your projects just to give the rest of us some hope.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 19, 2013 1:05 pm

by ks8

HTJ wrote:And you and Peter really need to start using rattle can paint and bondo on your projects just to give the rest of us some hope.

There are master's of bondo and rattle can paint too.

Clear coat, wetsanding, and polish do wonders with many types of paint that stay stuck.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 19, 2013 5:34 pm

by Cracker Larry

There is a lot to be said for rattle cans. I painted my GF16 with rattle cans

what is the nature of the caulking used to fill the grooves between the cedar planks??

Not cedar, it's cypress. This is the caulking http://www.jamestowndistributors.com/us ... +Life-Calk

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 19, 2013 6:03 pm

by Cracker Larry

Dang this weather, yesterday was 85, today was 55 and windy. Had to move the caulking tests out into the sunshine.

There seems to be 2 schools of thought with applying this stuff. One is to tape all the seams, caulk, tool the joints, then pull the tape and sand it flush. The other is to not tape the joints, be messy, and just sand it flush after it cures. I'm sort of testing both theories, as to which is the most work, and which works the best.

I can already tell that taping the entire sole of the GF18 is going to be quite a job

Caulked the seams, then forced it in good with a putty knife. Smear it everywhere and make a mess. Leave it all a bit high, so we can sand it down flush after it cures.

I let it sit a little while before pulling the tape, but not long enough, we made a really big mess. Needed to let it sit about a half day longer, then it would be just right. Glad I didn't make this mess in the boat! Another lesson learned. Smeared it all over the place so I can test it's sanding properties

Started getting cold, had to move it back inside the shop.

This has to cure for several days before it can be sanded and finished.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 19, 2013 6:09 pm

by ks8

How bad is the smell of the stuff?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 19, 2013 6:19 pm

by Cracker Larry

Barely even noticeable, comparable to epoxy. You can smell it but it's not noxious.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 19, 2013 6:55 pm

by Cracker Larry

BTW I am really glad to hear Dori is doing well, and on the mend. Send her my best wishes.

I am working almost everyday this week and the weekend, but I do have the 22nd off if you still need a hand.

Thanks Will, I really appreciate it and will give Dori your regards

I won't be needing help by this Friday, I've still got to get the plywood sole installed first, hope to get that done this week. I'm still needing a fishing trip though, if this wind ever quits blowing.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 19, 2013 7:35 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:Dang this weather, yesterday was 85, today was 55 and windy.
Started getting cold,

Is that why you heating up your shoes on the grill?

Don't worry about the smears, for sure after sanding it will look great

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 19, 2013 8:17 pm

by Cracker Larry

Is that why you heating up your shoes on the grill?

I told you it was cold

Those are my rabbit fur fuzzy feet

Don't worry about the smears, for sure after sanding it will look great

I'm thinking and hoping that you are right about that. We'll see. That's why we call this a test

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 19, 2013 10:40 pm

by AtTheBrink

I'll be the first to vote on which color looks best (even though I will have no say in the final product

).

I like the white caulk lines best. It really brings out the color and the grain of the wood. Makes it Pop!
second would be the black, it looks nice but may be aa bit hot on the patas.
The brown isnt even on my radar. The brown almost makes it look like you are trying to hide something or make it blend in, it is blaaah...

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Nov 20, 2013 8:06 am

by Aripeka Angler

Nice work dressing the lumber! That is going to be a pretty deck for sure

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Nov 20, 2013 9:10 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Richard. The Dewalt planer does a nice job.

Mike, I'm with you on the brown, it's too blah, but beauty is in the eye of the man who signs the checks

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Nov 20, 2013 9:37 am

by Aripeka Angler

The Dewalt planer does a nice job.

It sure did! I had my big Delta tuned up just in case you needed it. You are like me in that you like to do as much as you can in house

I'm curious, do you tape the planking to the hull sides with the caulking method?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Nov 20, 2013 12:01 pm

by Cracker Larry

I'm curious, do you tape the planking to the hull sides with the caulking method?

I'm still thinking that completely through, but I think probably not. My plan (subject to change) is to first glue and tape the 1/4" plywood sole as normal, glue and tape the center console, glue and tape the gunwale frames, fair that out reasonably well, then fit the planking around all that. I want it trimmed out around the console, mitered in all the corners, with clean edges around the sides. It's a process

Open to other suggestions.

Still cold and windy, had to move my test panels from the shop to Mrs. Cracker's dining room/greenhouse, or they will never cure. She probably won't be real pleased when she gets home, but she's dealt with worse

This caulking requires moisture to cure and they recommend you mist it with water every day. Since Mrs Cracker mists her orchids every day anyway, maybe she won't mind spraying these too

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Nov 20, 2013 12:58 pm

by bigtalljv

I saw a reference back in thread to a meeting with "he who writes the checks" but what was the technical decision for caulk over epoxy to fill the gaps?

jason

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Nov 20, 2013 2:54 pm

by Aripeka Angler

My plan (subject to change) is to first glue and tape the 1/4" plywood sole as normal, glue and tape the center console, glue and tape the gunwale frames, fair that out reasonably well, then fit the planking around all that. I want it trimmed out around the console, mitered in all the corners, with clean edges around the sides. It's a process Open to other suggestions.

I had a vision of mitered corners on all four edges of the sole. The two side boards would be the only ones on the sole with a curved cut. That would let you cut all of the remaining boards square on both ends. That would also allow you the tape the outer edge of the sole without dealing with the grooves (if you wanted to). Maybe use a darker or lighter board on the border. I got a picture of the hardwood floor in the old guest house that I have to show you later

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Nov 20, 2013 3:21 pm

by Cracker Larry

I had a vision of mitered corners on all four edges of the sole.

Me too

The two side boards would be the only ones on the sole with a curved cut.

Exactly. Maybe 2 on each side. There is not a lot of curve.

That would let you cut all of the remaining boards square on both ends.

Exactly.

Maybe use a darker or lighter board on the border.

Great minds think alike

We are thinking of doing all the borders in mahogany, then fill them in with the cypress..

I got a picture of the hardwood floor in the old guest house that I have to show you later

I've stayed there

Keep us a room open for the night before the builders meet

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 25, 2013 9:25 am

by BB Sig

How's the Mrs. doing? Your boat pics are inspiring but her health is a more important reason to check this thread. Prayers are still being sent!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 25, 2013 9:37 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks for asking Barry, she is doing very good, better than we expected

The power of prayers and positive thoughts are strong and doing their job. I was even able to leave her for a few days and take a short fishing trip to FL with Aripeka Angler and DBorecky. Back home now, freezing cold and very windy. Supposed to start raining or sleeting or something tonight

Florida was much nicer

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 25, 2013 10:25 am

by BB Sig

Good to hear! The fishing trip sounds good too!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 25, 2013 10:37 am

by antoniekruger

Cracker Larry wrote:
I'm curious, do you tape the planking to the hull sides with the caulking method?

This caulking requires moisture to cure and they recommend you mist it with water every day. Since Mrs Cracker mists her orchids every day anyway, maybe she won't mind spraying these too

Hi Bud, I've been around the thread, reading and empathising. It is good to hear that Mrs. Cracker is on the mend. If you ever have the inclination to bring the Mrs. and see the wild life in Southern Africa, I live 5 minutes from the air port(Jo'burg). You are welcome to use us as a base.
Please help me, why would you caulk?? Why not fill in the voids with epoxy?

I like the look of the panels. I have a batch of Saligna(blue gum) that I'm considering for a similar purpose. The stuff is as hard as it gets, though, with even density. I've used these for my fender and will be using them for my hatches.
Your bout is looking so good - I like the tooling layout as well - Glog, Radio, Drink, Power drill. Don't grab the wrong one to drill.
Cheers.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 26, 2013 8:21 am

by Cracker Larry

Please help me, why would you caulk?? Why not fill in the voids with epoxy?

The caulk is made specifically for that purpose and has been used successfully for a long time. We are still in a testing mode and may end up using epoxy instead, not sure yet exactly what we are going to do. This caulk is still not cured enough to sand and it's been inside for a week

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 26, 2013 3:40 pm

by ks8

And now the long version?

I think maybe there is a clash between traditional and modern methods and materials, and approach?

With traditional methods and materials, the wood may swell and shrink more than with completely water-sealed methods and materials. Maybe. Traditional implies oiled or painted or varnished wood that breathes water vapor in and out with changing environmental conditions, and so there is a particular approach with suitable materials consistent with that context of finish and maintenance. Dimensional wood that is not completely water-tight needs a caulk that can expand and compress with the planking. what Joel is doing on the runabout involves a final decking that is completely sealed in, basically, waterproof plastic. So it is consistent for him to use a tinted epoxy. And he is using epoxy sealed stabilized plywood planks. on this Gf18, honestly, what to use depends on, maybe, the finish treatment of the cypress planks. If they are not going to be completely and utterly sealed in plastic (epoxy), then a flexible caulking sure seems like the way to go. I'm barely an amateur when it comes to wood finishing, so I don't claim any authority in what I've shared, but I do read a lot of what others are doing, and why, and sometimes I even pay attention.

I don't know how that applies to this build and cypress, but I think somewhere in there, I possibly stumbled across some relevance, depending on the final finish and maintenance plan for the deck.

All that said... always learning. I glassed Doug fir plywood, and it is happy (once the pinholes where fixed). I glassed doug fir that I ripped down to one eigth inch or less thin laminate planks. And glassed it. And bright finished it. No problems after more than five years of sun and extreme temperature swings. So I also glassed Doug fir dimensional stock (the rail caps). Nothing but trouble because so much air is still trapped in the thicker dimensional wood. The air keeps expanding and making tiny bubbles in the bright finished glass, in large sections. So I learned that bright finished glassed dimensional Doug fir is more likely to be problematic. But when it comes to cypress, I'm completely ignorant. But I do venture to guess that the pros who work with cypress in this way have the sort of knowledge that I stumbled upon regarding Doug fir dimensional stock and fiberglass, bright finished. Cypress might expand and contract excessively, with temperature, even if completely sealed in plastic. In which case, that flexible caulking may be much more suitable than tinted epoxy. I don't know, but I hope I'm always learning, to the point of actually coming to a knowledge of the truth, some day.

I'm very interested in how to choose from the different materials out there. CL again shows the wisdom from all his experiences, by doing these test snack trays first, before committing to the deck itself.

CL,

After the trays are cured, will you be testing them outside in the sun and rain?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 26, 2013 5:33 pm

by Cracker Larry

KS summed up the dilemma pretty well

Cypress might expand and contract excessively, with temperature, even if completely sealed in plastic. In which case, that flexible caulking may be much more suitable than tinted epoxy. I don't know, but I hope I'm always learning, to the point of actually coming to a knowledge of the truth, some day.

On Joel's project he is using strips ripped from marine plywood, which are dimensionally stable. We are using planks of solid lumber which may not be. Even though we plan to seal it completely with epoxy, the dimensional lumber may still expand and contract some over time, I'm not worried about moisture, but even temperature extremes could cause a problem, which makes a flexible caulking the better (safer) way to go, I think. Don't want this deck cracking a year or 2 from now. Still researching some other options too. We'll see how it works out.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 26, 2013 6:50 pm

by Cracker Larry

Jeez, this weather is bad

Tornado warning, flood advisory warning, high wind warning, hard freeze warning, the sky is falling warnings

Hard to get any meaningful work done.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 26, 2013 7:08 pm

by cottontop

Larry, glad to hear Mrs. Cracker is doing well. Mrs. Bennett did through the 1st stages of "R" too, but as she neared the end it did get pretty tough. Imagine a bad sun burn about 3 to 4 times more(it's the daily burn and accumulation). She toughed it out though. She had 33 treatments. The last 5 were the hardest. On the boat, she sure is looking great. Your work and love for the craft really shows through. We're under a tornado watch until 10pm. Looks like ya'll are in for the worst. I thought we might get to come down to the meet this year. Really wanted to see all of you again and experience Boca. Big problem is we both have "Big C" followups that week and 2 other doctor appts. as well. I really think our so called "golden age" is really how much gold goes to our doctors, Still all in all, I would much rather be going in to see them than to be pushing up daisies. Take care and have a wonderful Thanksgiving. John and Mrs. B

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 26, 2013 8:24 pm

by Cracker Larry

The same back to you John, and I'm wishing for the best for you and your wife. The older we get the harder it is, but it is better than the alternative.

After the trays are cured, will you be testing them outside in the sun and rain?

I doubt it. Instead I'm relying on professional advice from people who have already done the testing for years. My client would like this finished sometime in his lifetime

He is great to work with and he'd rather spend the extra time it takes to do it right, but a couple of years of weather testing is not practical.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Nov 27, 2013 10:27 am

by ks8

I was thinking two weeks of accelerated testing. Lay 'em in direct sun and douse 'em with the hose. 180°F in the oven- hit it with hose (after taking it out of the oven

). Slide it in the freezer for a couple of hours, then the oven to 180, then hose it, etc. Not 24 hours a day, but enough to check the results of extreme expansion and contraction and moisture.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Nov 27, 2013 5:03 pm

by Cracker Larry

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone who celebrates it! Time to give thanks for everything we have, especially friends and family, and take some time to help those who have less. Time to do some good eating too

Happy Hanukkah also, for those who celebrate it, it won't fall on Thanksgiving day again for 76,000 years say the experts.

Thanksgivukkah it is called, a once in a lifetime happening

Enjoy, be safe, stay warm

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 28, 2013 10:19 am

by ks8

Surely.

Are you going to use the new serving trays today?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 28, 2013 10:30 am

by peter-curacao

ks8 wrote:Surely.
Are you going to use the new serving trays today?

Would be cool!

those hold a lot of oysters or oyster shooters or both

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 28, 2013 11:00 am

by ks8

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 28, 2013 11:46 am

by Rogerdog

Was wondering what a cracker with a freezer full of fish would have for Thanksgiving. Now I know!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 28, 2013 8:00 pm

by Cracker Larry

Peter knows us too well . Dori and I both are laughing our azz off at that. Nice job mi amigo

Dang, I ate more food today than I have in a week

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Nov 30, 2013 5:07 pm

by Cracker Larry

It still ain't much warmer, but I put on my long johns, my insulated boots, 4 sweatshirts and a sock hat, and made some progress in the last 2 days

Got all the sole panels cut out and dry fit.

The high today was only in the mid 50s, a little warmer than yesterday, not much, too cold to prime or glue anything so I started cutting out the front deck too. It just needs a little tweaking to fit.

It's supposed to be warmer next week, maybe we can glue all this down and keep moving forward. The weather folks say it's the coldest Thanksgiving in 30 years. That figures

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Dec 01, 2013 5:30 am

by justin_dwyer

Hey Cracker,

Looks awesome, I can't believe how quickly you get your boat done...nice work

I am struggling with the other end of the weather, too hot and humid. I have to work at break neck speed to make sure I get things done before my pot goes off. Just lots of mixing in small cups.

I enjoy watching your boat come together....and I learn heaps.

Cheers
Justin.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Dec 01, 2013 7:22 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Justin. I'd take the heat any time over cold. The whole trick to working epoxy when it's hot is to get it out of the mixing cup immediately and spread it out.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Dec 01, 2013 10:23 am

by TRC886

As always, Great work, Cracker

It's good to hear that Dori is doing well. I hope that she continues to do better than y'all expect

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Dec 01, 2013 11:34 am

by Cracker Larry

Appreciate it, she's doing very good

Was wondering what a cracker with a freezer full of fish would have for Thanksgiving.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Dec 01, 2013 4:17 pm

by Cracker Larry

A little more progress. We almost have a boat now

Still too cold to glue anything, but we can cut some wood and glue it when it warms up. I hope that happens soon

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Dec 01, 2013 6:24 pm

by ks8

I'm beginning to see the planking on there.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Dec 02, 2013 4:14 pm

by Cracker Larry

I'm beginning to see the planking on there.

Me too. Beginning to get it figured out now.

After 2 weeks inside the house I decided it was as cured as anyone could reasonably expect, even though the caulk still felt like a rubber tire, so we gave it a sanding. It sanded out a lot better than I thought it would, and although not easy it was doable. Started out very careful with a sanding block and 120 grit. The instructions say not to use a R/O sander or it may tear out the caulk. After about 20 minutes of hand sanding I said the heck with that, it would take a year to sand the entire sole by hand

Got the little R/O sander and some 80 grit on slow speed. Much better, but still too slow. After 20 minutes of that I got out the big R/O sander and some 60 grit. Get 'er done

Whoever wrote those instructions must not let it cure for 2 weeks

Sanded the panels with 60 grit, 80 grit, 120 grit, and wiped down with lacquer thinner. Still too cold for epoxy, that's why I'm doing this in the sunshine, but it's supposed to be in the 70s later this week.

Some things I learned...

1. It sands down nice, just takes some time. It's going to take a lot of time to sand the entire sole.

2. Make sure to completely fill the joints with caulk. High spots will sand down but low spots are impossible to fix.

3. You need really smooth and clean cuts. Any splits, cracks, chips or defects will fill with caulk and show as a ragged line. I've replaced my radial blade with a 72 tooth finish blade to make all the cross cuts, and I think I need to edge joint all the planks to get good clean lines. Needed an excuse for another tool anyway

4. Lacquer thinner will give you a really good buzz

Well, it's not really a good buzz, but it will really give you a buzz

Next tests on these will be cloth weight. Joel is sending us a yard each of 4 oz and 6 oz woven cloth and I've got some 9 oz. I'm going to do one panel in each weight to see which is preferred. After we get them glassed, we are going to test a couple of different clear non-skid methods. I'm a firm believer in the 5 P principle. Preparation prevents p@ss poor performance

It's a lot easier to refinish a test panel than it is the sole of this boat.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Dec 02, 2013 8:15 pm

by Rogerdog

Those look fantastic!

Do you prefer a narrower joint or wider?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Dec 02, 2013 10:21 pm

by Hope2float

Looks great Larry. Sure looks like it is labor intensive. The results should be well appreciated. BUILD-ON!
Dave

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Dec 03, 2013 12:02 am

by gk108

I'm glad I don't have to decide which color looks best.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Dec 03, 2013 7:00 am

by Aripeka Angler

I love the way test panels turned out

Mrs. AA says she likes the panel with the dark caulk, I like the brown one myself. They all look great...

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Dec 03, 2013 9:23 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks all. Later today I'll get a coat of epoxy on these and we can really tell how they will look. Supposed to reach 70 today and high 70s for the rest of the week, so the intentions are to get the bottom of the sole panels epoxy coated and glued down. That will be a big milestone.

Do you prefer a narrower joint or wider?

I think the narrow joints look better, cleaner. Plus they are easier to sand

and will require less caulk to fill.

I'm glad I don't have to decide which color looks best.

They all look pretty good to me, I'm withholding judgement until we get it coated.

Building on

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Dec 03, 2013 10:22 am

by wegcagle

Looks great Larry.

I really didn't like the brown caulk at first, but after sanding I think it's my favorite....So who knows until you get it finished

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Dec 03, 2013 10:28 am

by SmokyMountain

They look great Larry!!

I used 6 oz cloth on my drift boat and It was real clear, could barely see any of the weave.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Dec 03, 2013 4:00 pm

by Cracker Larry

Will, I think the brown looks good too and it is more forgiving of mistakes, but they all look pretty dang good

Have you made reservations for the spring builders meet yet? Need to do that, you will love Boca Grande! Plus the company

I used 6 oz cloth on my drift boat and It was real clear, could barely see any of the weave.

Thanks Andy, that's encouraging.

Not as warm today as the weatherheads promised, and it's raining, which they didn't even mention

Barely warm enough to mix some epoxy and hope it cures. I used all available space under roof to coat the bottom of the sole and deck panels. Each of the 3 sole panels are almost a full sheet of plywood, as is the casting deck, so it takes a lot of space.

The cheese trays are coming along nicely too

They are back inside the shop, no more room outside.

They look a lot better than in the pictures. When they cure and the sun comes out I'll take a picture with a good camera.

No space left to work in and I don't want to stir up any dust in the shop, so it's time for a rum drink

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Dec 03, 2013 4:40 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:
Not as warm today as the weatherheads promised, and it's raining, which they didn't even mention Barely warm enough to mix some epoxy and hope it cures.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ohGmFe57csw

All looking great Larry I think I like the white best, very classy look imo

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Dec 03, 2013 6:03 pm

by Cracker Larry

Great video Peter

Dang, Jimmy is getting as old as I am.

Larry I think I like the white best, very classy look imo

I really do like the white, but I'm told that it will yellow over time. You usually see the white caulk joints in interior areas because of that. This boat will be stored indoors though so it may not be an issue at all. Not in my lifetime anyway.

The black would be pretty sharp too.

And the brown isn't bad at all..

Still crappy cell phone pictures with crappy lighting, will try to do better tomorrow.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Dec 04, 2013 9:25 am

by ks8

Are you going to glass over everything, caulk and all? just wondering how the glass would hold up over a soft substrate. If so, thinner gaps sounds better, less 'weakly supported' glass spans over narrower gaps.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Dec 04, 2013 9:27 am

by wegcagle

Have you made reservations for the spring builders meet yet? Need to do that, you will love Boca Grande! Plus the company

Not yet. Still working on the money part...I don't have any currently

The company is always great, but my liver's happy that it's only once a year

In all honesty I think that I will be able to swing it, but I have to get through taxes before I can be completely sure. I have made a promise to myself that the GV15 will be done, and fine tuned by then as well.....We'll see....

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Dec 04, 2013 3:03 pm

by Cracker Larry

Are you going to glass over everything, caulk and all? just wondering how the glass would hold up over a soft substrate. If so, thinner gaps sounds better, less 'weakly supported' glass spans over narrower gaps.

Yes, glassing over everything. The caulk really isn't soft, but that's a good point about the narrower joints probably being a better connection with the glass. Thanks for that insight.

In all honesty I think that I will be able to swing it,

Jeez Will, you're a real doctor now. If this poor boat builder can swing it, you can

At least go ahead and make your reservations, they will fill up soon. You can cancel them 72 hours ahead of arrival without any charges. And if that boat isn't finished, you know you can fish on mine.

Nothing exciting to report, except the sun is shining and it's 75 degrees

Put a second coat of epoxy on the bottom of the sole and deck panels, and cheese trays. There goes another gallon of epoxy. Also made my weekly trip to Lowes this morning to stock up on rollers, brushes and such, and left with a 6" Porter Cable bench joiner.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Dec 04, 2013 4:02 pm

by wegcagle

Jeez Will, you're a real doctor now. If this poor boat builder can swing it, you can

I maybe a real doctor now, but now I have to payback my real student loans

Truth is that after taxes and student loan payments, I'm bringing home about the same as when I was in training. Good news is that I like my job

Will

Edit: I'll go ahead and book a room since I can cancel if I have to. I also appreciate the offer to fish with you again. It sure was a blast last time. I may need a fishing partner even if I do bring the boat. I've never been to Boca Grande, and wouldn't know where to begin.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Dec 04, 2013 4:43 pm

by Steven

Cracker Larry wrote:
Yes, glassing over everything. The caulk really isn't soft, but that's a good point about the narrower joints probably being a better connection with the glass. Thanks for that insight.

Is that a normal thing to do glassing over that caulk? If so , read no further.

I would think there would be a considerable difference in the movement of the wood versus the caulk resulting in at least a wavy/bumpy appearance. Maybe the glass minimizes or eliminates this? I would think the glass might separate from the caulk leaving bubbles over time. Seems like putting epoxy, a permanent forever coating over caulk, expected to have a limited life span, could be a problematic mix. I can see putting varnish over it as it's also limited life and renewable.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Dec 04, 2013 7:01 pm

by gstanfield

Cracker Larry wrote:...Nothing exciting to report, except the sun is shining and it's 75 degrees Put a second coat of epoxy on the bottom of the sole and deck panels, and cheese trays. There goes another gallon of epoxy. Also made my weekly trip to Lowes this morning to stock up on rollers, brushes and such, and left with a 6" Porter Cable bench joiner.

The boat and test panels are looking great, and congrats on getting a new toy. A joiner sure is handy to have from time to time.

...oh yeah, it was sunny here today, but about 78 degrees less than where you are.

I hope Dori is doing well, I was thinking about ya'll a lot this week as I lay in a hospital bed with my wife sitting nervously by. It's amazing at what we tend to take for granted and how trivial our daily "problems" become the minute we are faced with an actual problem. Thanksgiving morning I decided to have a mini-stroke and a "small" heart attack, not the best way to spend a thanksgiving

Anyway, enough about me, use that warm weather and make some good progress Capt'n

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Dec 04, 2013 8:08 pm

by Cracker Larry

Damn George, I sure do hate to hear that. Sure hope you will be OK

I know I can't do much from here, but I'm with you in mind and spirit my friend. If there is anything I can do just mention it and it will be done.

It's amazing at what we tend to take for granted and how trivial our daily "problems" become the minute we are faced with an actual problem

Amen. Most things that aggravate us are nothing more than a minor thing that we will get past easy enough. Some things are bigger than that. That's when we need our friends the most. You've got plenty of those here to lean on. So do I. If we can do anything just say something.

oh yeah, it was sunny here today, but about 78 degrees less than where you are.

Howinhell can anybody live where it's below zero

And why would anybody when there are warmer places

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Dec 04, 2013 9:09 pm

by Larry B

Cracker Larry wrote:

Howinhell can anybody live where it's below zero And why would anybody when there are warmer places

And miss days like this???
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6UYz9vBtVfw

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Dec 04, 2013 9:41 pm

by gstanfield

That video is pretty much what today was like except we have a little more snow. The current temp is -11F and the overnight is supposed to be -20F

We had two of these today:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vA16ivK6iDI

With an actual temp of -5F and 60mph winds I think the winchill was "unfckingbelievablewhatinthehellwereyouthinkingtomoveouthere"

...but again, I have a good job in a heated building and a warm house to come home to. Many people have it much worse than I do

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Dec 05, 2013 6:12 pm

by Cracker Larry

Yall folks are crazy, that's all I can say

Almost 80 degrees here today, perfect, even if it was raining.

We got the forward sole panel glued in. First had to clean it to de-blush, used fast hardener, then sanded lightly for some tooth, then wipe it off again, then glue it down.

On the first panel I planned the splice to land in the center of a frame, so no butt blocks are needed. The splice between the second and third panels need butt blocks. I planned this splice to be roughly centered where the leaning post will mount, and made some extra thick and long splice blocks to act as backing plates for the leaning post legs. Wanted some extra meat behind those spots.

Didn't have any room left to make and prime the butt blocks ahead of time, so did it on the fly. Marked out where the splices would be on the center panel, de-blushed and sanded that, and gave the blocks a good coat of epoxy.

Then glued those on, used screws and fender washers to hold it together.

Tomorrow I'll coat the bottom of the splice blocks with a couple of coats of epoxy, fill the screw holes and hopefully get the rest of the sole glued down.

My helper is hard at work too, keeping an eye on things and watching it rain.

Mostly sleeping and listening to the radio

Big brown truck just brought us some test cloth. Thanks Joel, appreciate that

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Dec 06, 2013 9:12 am

by Joe H

Looking good Larry, I still haven't heard back from the brother- in- law, but who needs em.

Yall folks are crazy, that's all I can say Almost 80 degrees here today, perfect, even if it was raining.

Imfckingfreezing.

Joe H

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Dec 06, 2013 10:04 am

by gk108

Man, I can almost sympathize. All of the fields around here were covered with white a few weeks ago...Then they picked all of that cotton.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Dec 06, 2013 11:43 am

by Cracker Larry

Imfckingfreezing.

Joe H

Short pants and barefoot here Joe

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Dec 06, 2013 12:11 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:
Imfckingfreezing.

Joe H
Short pants and barefoot here Joe

Dito

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Dec 06, 2013 12:49 pm

by Steven

84 2 days ago. 20 with a 1/2" of ice on everything today. It's days like this I regret work from home ability. Should be outside slipping around on the ice with the kiddos.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Dec 06, 2013 2:10 pm

by Aripeka Angler

Brrrr

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Dec 06, 2013 4:45 pm

by HTJ

Man 'yall are just plain wrong - I was working west of Barstow CA this week, was 31 yesterday morning and getting colder. And my beloved Texas is now cold and wet.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Dec 06, 2013 6:56 pm

by Cracker Larry

Crazy weather all over. Sure glad I'm not in the middle of the country right now! We had record lows 2 weeks ago, record highs this week. I like the highs

It will probably be freezing again next week.

Middle sole panel is glued in, with the butt blocks for the final panel splice and leaning post support. I had to router out the foam where all the butt blocks fit and that was one nasty mess. A router and foam dust is an experience in true grit

One more sole panel to go and it will be the easy one. Tomorrow's another day. Mrs. Cracker says we have to go cut a Christmas tree tomorrow though. We'll see.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Dec 07, 2013 9:00 am

by Dougster

Cracker Larry wrote: A router and foam dust is an experience in true grit

That's funny from here, maybe less so in the middle of it all

I have wondered how you cut back the foam to fit the butt blocks, and now I know. Seems like a good, accurate way. Weather's been the same here, up and down. We're down now. 23 degrees and 15 to 20 mph wind right now. I spent an hour yesterday foolin' with a baitwell switch with timer. Got cold, couldn't get it to work, went in and got coffee. Like you say, tomorrow is another day.

Day by day Dougster

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Dec 07, 2013 1:51 pm

by robbiro

Go find that good woman a perfect tree , SHE needs one to pretty up the house this season.
The cheese trays all look great, I think I would go with the White or Brown. Don't know how much the black would heat in our warmer climes!
That boat is going to be fabulous!! The foam dust is only to be feared without breathing protection!!

. RO's can be dangerous with it too.

Keep on Buildin'

Robbie

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Dec 08, 2013 3:01 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Robbie and Doug.

Yesterday was a beautiful day, 80 degrees, sunny, should have gone fishing, or built a boat instead of the annual Christmas tree mission. We go to a local tree farm, look at 3,000 trees, she finally picks one that looks just like the rest of them. Cut it down, bring it home, make the dang crooked thing almost secure and straight in the stand, get it in the house, then it's the battle of making all the light strings work, swapping out one bulb at a time, figuring out the fuse in the plug is blown, go get more bulbs and fuses, change those tiny fuses, success, my work was done, about dark I was finally dismissed

Today it hasn't got out of the 40s, raining and pure nasty outside. Put together and adjusted the new jointer, picked and cleaned a mess of collard greens and got them cooking with some fatback, going to build a fire and not do a dang thing.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Dec 08, 2013 3:48 pm

by Prarie Dog

Cracker Larry wrote:Today it hasn't got out of the 40s, raining and pure nasty outside. Put together and adjusted the new jointer, picked and cleaned a mess of collard greens and got them cooking with some fatback, going to build a fire and not do a dang thing.

Sounds like a good plan!!

We drove half the night coming home from a Hockey Game in Denver last night. We all feel hungover today, think T's slept the entire time except for enough time to eat breakfast. Got a heat wave today, it's 15 out there.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Dec 09, 2013 6:27 pm

by Cracker Larry

Got a heat wave today, it's 15 out there.

Jeez Paul, I'd move. We've got plenty of broke cars to fix down here where it's warm (er)

We had a short heat wave too, it was above 65 for about 4 hours today

I took advantage of all 4 of them and got that last sole panel glued down. Sure glad those big beasts are done with. Going to try to get this all sanded, then fillet and tape it tomorrow, weather permitting.

Building on, as the Lord allows

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Dec 11, 2013 9:36 am

by Cracker Larry

We got the sole mostly cleaned up, but the glue from the previous day was not dry enough to sand yet, and too cold for taping. Marked lay out lines on the sole for T-top leg supports and leaning post leg supports, console, stringers, frames and other considerations.

Also filled the voids around the chase tubes and drains with thickened epoxy, no pic of that yet, finished at dark.

After much consideration, I like the white best, with thin caulk lines. Mrs. Cracker agrees. That's very unusual that we agree on anything

35 degrees this morning, maybe it will warm up enough for taping later.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Dec 11, 2013 9:38 am

by tcason

Did I miss gas tank install?

What are gas tank plans if I did not miss it?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Dec 11, 2013 9:53 am

by Cracker Larry

No, you haven't missed it yet. Just behind the 2 cockpit drains we will install another full width frame and the tank will go in there, with an upholstered seat running full width on top and removable back rests. I needed to get the sole installed before that frame goes in. Due to the curve of the bottom we couldn't get a tank as large as desired under the front deck. Should be able to get 36 gallons under the rear.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Dec 11, 2013 10:43 am

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:After much consideration, I like the white best, with thin caulk lines. Mrs. Cracker agrees. That's very unusual that we agree on anything

I'm glad you two agreed

as I mentioned earlier me to think that's nicest and most classy look

Build looks great and clean as always

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Dec 11, 2013 4:11 pm

by garym

Curious. Are you glassing the sole and installing the back frame before installing the final decking?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Dec 11, 2013 9:13 pm

by Cracker Larry

I plan to tape down the plywood sole panels, tape in the rear frame, tape in the console, tape in the frames that will support the gunwales/side decks, and then install the final decking around all of that. It's a slow process.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Dec 12, 2013 9:36 am

by antoniekruger

Hi Larry, would lifting the tank above the stringers not have an affect on the CG with a flat bottomed boat. Would the roll not be exaggerated by a 36 gallon tank that high up?
The caulk looks good. Was it difficult to sand?

You are not the only guys with odd weather. We've had 2 weeks of rain varying from hail storms to soft soakers. I've lost my pool solar heating and home solar geyser to the iced bullets from above. Luckily no damage to the cars and boat. I have dimples in my corrugated iron parking roof. We're breaking for our Xmas holidays tomorrow and will be heading to Mozambique's coast with my rubber duck for some seriously needed R&R. Hoping for some big GT's. I need to get my son hooked into one of those

. On return I'll get stuck in to flip my boat before new year.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Dec 12, 2013 8:27 pm

by Cracker Larry

Hi Larry, would lifting the tank above the stringers not have an affect on the CG with a flat bottomed boat. Would the roll not be exaggerated by a 36 gallon tank that high up?

Not at all. Sure don't want it resting directly on the bottom and the stringers are only 5 inches high. Not a problem.

The caulk looks good. Was it difficult to sand?

Thanks. Sanding was more difficult than I thought it would be, about like sanding wood flour/ epoxy mix. It's tough stuff. That's probably a good thing.

I would love to see the Mozambique coast one day

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Dec 19, 2013 5:35 pm

by Cracker Larry

Still trying to build. It's been too cold to glue much all week, so we've been working on the console. The Lord created heaven and earth in less time than it took us to come up with a final design that works, but I think we've finally got it. Sure hope so

There will be a raised, bright finished cypress pod on the lower half of the console face, not drawn here. The wheel and throttle/shift lever will mount on it. Stay tuned, it's going to look sharp

The boat owner is building that himself and it will be assembled with dovetail joints.

Since we want both sides exactly the same, I clamp 2 pieces together, then mark and cut them out as one.

This design will make more sense when you see the steering pod and instrument panel.

Cut out some more pieces and started dry fitting it together. Clamps and squares, we want it all square and plumb, can't have no cattywhompas console.

Loosely tacked together with finishing nails right now.

It's supposed to warm up for the next few days and I would like to finish filleting and taping the sole while we have a warm spell. I can glue up the console in the shop where we have heat. Still have a couple more panels to cut for the console, will do that in the morning then probably put this aside and try to get the sole taping done. We'll see.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Dec 19, 2013 5:52 pm

by Shamrock Kid

That's a great looking console, the integrated seat is a great idea. Also looks like all the chase tubes are in perfect alignment. Someday I'll figure out this boatbuilding thing and not have to do everything three times.

She's looking great!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Dec 19, 2013 9:44 pm

by glossieblack

Larry, looking forward to seeing the design collaboration between your client, Raymond and yourself on the console and T-Top bearing fruit. Steven's OB19 T-Top build by Raymond is a powerful appetite whetter!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Dec 20, 2013 9:20 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks John, when you get to boat number 6, you've already done it all wrong 18 times, so you tend to get better as you go

Experience teaches us to recognize a mistake after we've made it again

looking forward to seeing the design collaboration between your client, Raymond and yourself on the console and T-Top bearing fruit. Steven's OB19 T-Top build by Raymond is a powerful appetite whetter!

I'm going to try and stay out of that collaboration, will leave that up to Raymond and client. Once Raymond works his magic, it will be sweet

I didn't even collaborate with him when he built the top for my boat, I told him to have his way with her. He's got a better eye than I do

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Dec 20, 2013 9:47 am

by Dougster

I may hold the title for the "Dougstering" method of boat building, but I have noticed that two steps forward and one back is still progress. Congratulations on your progress, that console looks good to me. Mine were more simple and liked to drove me crazy. You can't see it really but at least one of them is surely a bit "cattywhompas". BTW, hats off to a guy who uses such a fine word in a thread

Cattywhompas Dougster

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Dec 20, 2013 7:37 pm

by Cracker Larry

Cattywhompas is a proper Southernese word, Doug

I reckon a lot of folks here don't know what we are talkin' bout though

Doing a little building and a lot of pondering, also a good Southernese word

There are going to be 2 switch panels, but I only have one in hand. The other planned alongside this one on the bottom left. Engine gauges planned today for top right. All is subject to change, still pondering, no holes cut yet.

I draw, and redraw, then do it again. Will eventually reach satisfaction for all

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Dec 20, 2013 10:33 pm

by ks8

I like the look of pencil on plywood. After my third version gets erased, taping poster board over it and drawing on that works too.

Heap'em big ponderin' sometimes needs lots of pencil and eraser.

Looking forward to seeing 'the pod'. At least one cupholder?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Dec 20, 2013 10:33 pm

by Mikem59

That console is going to be great. I really like the flush mount idea for the GPS unit. By the way, what is Standard Horizon, a radar unit?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Dec 21, 2013 9:26 am

by Cracker Larry

At least one cupholder?

At least 2 on the console. Got 12 for the boat

, what is Standard Horizon

VHF radio. The other black trim ring is stereo.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Dec 22, 2013 5:06 pm

by Cracker Larry

Sure has been some nice weather in the SE this weekend. Short pants and barefoot on the first weekend of winter

More bad weather coming though, got to build while the sun shines.

Finished cutting out the console pieces, then took it back apart for later assembly. This is a complete console kit.

Sanded the sole and sides, wiped it down to prep for fillet and tape. Always sanding. Then dry fit and cut all the tape.

Rolled tape up and moved out of the way, then primed all the seams.

Then filleted it out.

Let the fillets set up for about half an hour, then brushed them with epoxy to smooth them out. Laid down the tape and rolled it out. All wet on wet. Long day but got er done

That's all the boat building until after Christmas. Merry Christmas to all

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Dec 22, 2013 6:39 pm

by Hope2float

Larry as usual building like a marathon. You always seem to leave the rest of us in the dust. No pun intended

That build is looking great. Love those fillets they always seem to be perfect. Great layout for the console seems to be spot on. Keep on BUILDING-ON!
Have a great Christmas, thats to you and Dori and all the others that will look at your tread.
Dave

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Dec 24, 2013 10:03 am

by ks8

Nice

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jan 02, 2014 10:51 pm

by Doc_Dyer

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jan 03, 2014 9:16 am

by Cracker Larry

I figured that was coming

Winter has got me in slow motion, rain, wind, cold, rain, wind, cold, it hasn't been warm enough to glue anything in 2 weeks. 27 this morning, wind blowing 35, hard for me to get much done in this

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jan 03, 2014 11:03 am

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:I figured that was coming

Winter has got me in slow motion, rain, wind, cold, rain, wind, cold, it hasn't been warm enough to glue anything in 2 weeks. 27 this morning, wind blowing 35, hard for me to get much done in this

that's cold, last night it was 63 over here,I thought that was cold had to put some socks on

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jan 03, 2014 2:46 pm

by ks8

yeah... 54°f even here! Glad I've got SilverTip Fast. Mixing only two small batches today, but bettar'n not in.

might have to bring in the water base paint soon, from the chill in' garage.

Peter ... wearing those socks with sandals?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jan 03, 2014 4:03 pm

by peter-curacao

ks8 wrote: Peter ... wearing those socks with sandals?

Hahaha LOL I have a boat not a cruise ship

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jan 04, 2014 10:21 am

by topwater

Monday it will be -15 with a wind chill of -50

I got to get the hell outa here.... One more year

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jan 04, 2014 10:36 am

by Cracker Larry

Better move further south than I am John. I gotta get the hell out of here too! We're supposed to be about +15 the first of the week. I just went out and lit the propane heater in the shop, the thermometer inside said 24 degrees. Going to take a while to warm up in there! If I can get it above 60 I'm going to work on the center console. If not, I'm going to build a fire and stay in the house

At least it ain't snowing.

It's sure been quiet around here, I reckon everybody is froze in. Global warming for sure

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jan 04, 2014 3:51 pm

by antoniekruger

Hi Guys, I have never experienced weather that cold

.
It is the opposite of the coin here in Jo'burg. We had a very wet start to the summer. Most of my construction sites were unable to work the last 3 weeks before the shut down. Now it is so warm that even my fairing compound heats up after mixing and seem to want to smoke out. I can not mix more than 100g epoxy with extra slow hardener or I do not have enough time to apply - it is very warm 29 to 35C day and 15 to 20C night. I think I'll have to move my resin to the fridge

.
I saw the news of the winter storms in the US, I hope you guys thaw out soon.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jan 04, 2014 5:04 pm

by Cracker Larry

35C is about 95F, I'd take that over this every day. That's our normal summer temps, I can work with that

As soon as you mix up your fairing compound spread it out flat on a piece of cardboard, or just smear it out on the boat right away. If it is not contained you will have plenty of working time.

My shop finally got up to a tolerable temperature and I cut out all the cleats for the console side panels. Would have cut some more but ran out of cleat material, it goes fast. Another trip to Lowes will fix that.

By the time I had cut and fit all these it was warm enough to mix some epoxy, so we primed the cleats for gluing.

And primed the inside of the console sides. Using about every square foot of heated space I have and still leaving room to walk around it. Getting crowded in here for sure.

Not moving fast, but still moving forward

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jan 04, 2014 5:29 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:35C is about 95F, I'd take that over this every day.

Come and live here

Console is looking good and solid

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jan 05, 2014 9:58 am

by Noles309

I have some basic questions. I'm getting ready to start a GF16 build. Going back to where you glassed the bottom and sides and were using the red and blue cups, do you pour one into the other to mix or do you mix in a larger mixing cup? As far as measuring do you use pumps or the automotive style mixing ratio cup that is in the pic?

Thanks

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jan 05, 2014 10:27 am

by Larry B

Noles309 wrote:I have some basic questions. I'm getting ready to start a GF16 build. Going back to where you glassed the bottom and sides and were using the red and blue cups, do you pour one into the other to mix or do you mix in a larger mixing cup? As far as measuring do you use pumps or the automotive style mixing ratio cup that is in the pic?

Thanks

Noles, Here is how I do it, it's very easy only have to pour once, mix and throw cup away. scroll to middle of page.
http://forums.bateau2.com/viewtopic.php ... it=+mixing

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jan 05, 2014 1:34 pm

by TRC886

I use Larry B's method, too. Works great

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jan 05, 2014 2:30 pm

by pee wee

I think the reason Cracker Larry poured all those red and blue cups (resin in one color and hardener in the other) is that there was a lot of glass to saturate and he needed to work quickly, batch after batch. His method allows him to pre-measure all the epoxy in his own time and avoid making a mistake- once a batch is used up, grab a red cup and a blue cup, mix together and go. I use the same method as Larry B. also, but if I was working a big quantity I would use C.L.'s method- once you're in the middle of a big process anything you can have done ahead of time is a big plus.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jan 05, 2014 4:09 pm

by Aripeka Angler

topwater wrote:Monday it will be -15 with a wind chill of -50 I got to get the hell outa here.... One more year

It's 83' here today, shorts and tee shirt weather

You guys in the north are tough for sure!

Nice looking shape on the console Captain

Will the front have a live well or a seat and storage?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jan 05, 2014 4:42 pm

by Cracker Larry

As far as measuring do you use pumps or the automotive style mixing ratio cup that is in the pic?

I don't use pumps, just graduated measuring cups. One for resin, one for hardener, and then pour and mix in a cheap throwaway cup. These are great, I get them here at Bateau.

Like Peewee suggested, the red/blue is for large quantities only when you need to keep moving.

It's 83' here today, shorts and tee shirt weather

Dang, that's 30 degrees warmer than we are! And it's supposed to go downhill from here

Will the front have a live well or a seat and storage?

Seat and storage for engine batteries I think. Live well will be in the stern.

Got the heater running in the shop again and glued all the cleats on the console side panels today.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jan 05, 2014 8:48 pm

by Noles309

Thanks

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jan 06, 2014 7:49 am

by stickystuff

You better put a fur coat on your epoxy jugs. It's gonna be 25 here tomorrow so I know you are gonna be colder. I am ready for spring and we ain't even got started good yet.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jan 06, 2014 5:50 pm

by wadestep

Wow, what forethought. It sure looks easier to clamp on those cleats now, than to try to clamp or screw them on later, after building the shell. (I appreciate these things since I did most of this stuff bass-ackwards on my first build.)

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jan 11, 2014 6:17 pm

by Cracker Larry

(I appreciate these things since I did most of this stuff bass-ackwards on my first build.)

So did I

When it ain't been freezing, it's been raining, and if it ain't raining, it's cold and windy. One day a week it's warm

Warm today, pouring rain and windy. Still working inside but still moving forward.

The steering pod is coming along nicely too

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jan 12, 2014 9:51 am

by ks8

Gonna be purdy.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jan 13, 2014 6:49 pm

by Cracker Larry

Dang, building this console is almost like building a little boat. Got as many parts and cleats in it for sure. Still gluing it up, a few pieces at a time. Not many pieces left

The console has to have a bottom, otherwise it would be lower inside it than the surrounding deck planking and it couldn't drain. This will bring it slightly higher than the deck planking yet to come.

A great thing about a wood floor is that you can nail or screw all sorts of braces to it as needed.

I'm going to give everything inside the console a couple of coats of tinted epoxy before I finish closing it up. Also have to add a couple of dividers, one vertical and one horizontal.

While waiting for glue to dry on the console again I fit the rear frame, primed the edges and got it tack glued into place. It was warm enough this afternoon to actually glue something outside

Short lived though, more rain and cold is coming. Tomorrow's another day and I'm thirsty anyway, so bring on the rain

The gas tank will occupy all of this space, with an upholstered seat on top and a removable backrest divided into 3 sections.

Still moving forward

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jan 13, 2014 7:14 pm

by stickystuff

Do you plan on hingeing the face plate? Sure make wireing and rigging a lot easier. If i ever build another I will def have a tilted 1/2 consol. It would be so much easier. Food for thought. Other than that another fine Cracker job.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jan 14, 2014 12:31 am

by antoniekruger

Hi Larry, looking good. A question...or 2. Why do you close up the bottom? Is that a structural consideration or something else?
What radius will the edging on your console be? I like this design. I'll borrow some of it if you don't mind.
Hope it warms up there soon....and cools down here.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jan 14, 2014 8:18 am

by tcason

Going to ask a question that may make you all laugh but.................

Why have I not seen the use of a air gun nailer on any builds?

Seem like it would be great on your Cracker console build to glue, square and then air nail "tack" the console all together while the epoxy sets. I realize the nails are "permanent" vs screws that you remove and then fill holes.
Would also be useful for gunnel install also in lieu of clamps.

Is this a we are building a wood/epoxy boat purist ideal?
OR
Do we worry about the nails rusting and or "working" themselves out over the life of the boat?
Or another reason?

Have not used my air nailer gun yet on any thing but seems logical at some stages in build IF it is not taboo?

Hope this is not a hi-jack but wanted to go to the source for the answer!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jan 14, 2014 9:06 am

by Cracker Larry

Do you plan on hinging the face plate? Sure make wiring and rigging a lot easier.

No, I don't see how I could possibly make it waterproof without a LOT of trouble. It will have a hatch in the front face to access the wiring.

Why do you close up the bottom? Is that a structural consideration or something else?

Answered above

The console has to have a bottom, otherwise it would be lower inside it than the surrounding deck planking and it couldn't drain. This will bring it slightly higher than the deck planking yet to come.

What radius will the edging on your console be?

1/2" probably, maybe 3/4", will have to see how it looks.

Why have I not seen the use of a air gun nailer on any builds?

I'm often tempted, I've got a great little finish nailer and it would sure make some things easier. I just can't bring myself to shoot a bunch of steel nails into the wood and leave them in there to rust later. The easy way is seldom the best

Hot glue is almost as easy and I don't have to worry about any corrosion issues later.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jan 15, 2014 7:31 pm

by Cracker Larry

It warmed slightly above 60 today for a short spell and I took advantage of it. Got that last frame filleted and taped. Maybe it will cure in the next couple days, it's supposed to be in the 20s tonight and only 40s tomorrow, so got to get it while we can.

Cut the drain tubes flush, then covered them with packing tape to keep the epoxy out and completed the fillets front and back.

Cut all the tape ahead of time.

And got it all taped in. Wet on wet all the way.

Now we can take some final measurements and order a gas tank to fit

Going to be cold for the next few days, back to work on the console inside the shop.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jan 16, 2014 8:57 am

by BB Sig

Cracker Larry wrote:
Why have I not seen the use of a air gun nailer on any builds?
I'm often tempted, I've got a great little finish nailer and it would sure make some things easier. I just can't bring myself to shoot a bunch of steel nails into the wood and leave them in there to rust later. The easy way is seldom the best Hot glue is almost as easy and I don't have to worry about any corrosion issues later.

Could you use stainless finish nails without worrying about rust? HD carries them in a 500/box 1.5" 16 gauge brad nail for $15. I know that stainless is not a guarantee that it will not rust as they don't specify the grade of stainless.

* I haven't started a boat yet but all of these conversations help me learn before I start! *

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jan 16, 2014 9:28 am

by antoniekruger

Cracker Larry wrote: Cut all the tape ahead of time.

Hi Larry. Flip, its hot here - we have heat wave conditions. It will be like this for a few days then rain. Anyway, I'm sanding primer, so no epoxy for a while.
Took my duck in today with a 90 Mariner that went down over the break - apparently a stuck starter motor....that sucks.
Bud, I see that you have taped fillets and cleats in the corners of the transom boxes. Why do you do it like this. Would the taped fillet not be enough or is there another purpose?
I'll bottle some heat and sunshine and ship to you guys.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jan 16, 2014 9:51 am

by Cracker Larry

Send me some of that heat Antoine, it's freezing here

I see that you have taped fillets and cleats in the corners of the transom boxes. Why do you do it like this. Would the taped fillet not be enough or is there another purpose?

Yes, they have another purpose. We're going to insulate the sides of the boxes then cover the insulation with 1/4" plywood. The cleats are to glue the inner plywood to.

Could you use stainless finish nails without worrying about rust? HD carries them in a 500/box 1.5" 16 gauge brad nail for $15. I know that stainless is not a guarantee that it will not rust as they don't specify the grade of stainless.

I doubt it's a marine grade stainless. I'm not leaving any metal in my boats except what is required for mounting hardware. 1.5" would be too long anyway. Cleats are 3/4" and the ply is usually 1/4 or 3/8, which would leave the nail sticking out. It's a lot easier to remove a screw than pull a nail with vice grips. Hot glue is easier still.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jan 16, 2014 10:38 am

by antoniekruger

[quote="Cracker Larry"]
Yes, they have another purpose. We're going to insulate the sides of the boxes then cover the insulation with 1/4" plywood. The cleats are to glue the inner plywood to.
[quote]
Thanks, simple and solid. Insulation? Foam or polystyrene? Im assuming these are for cooling.
I suppose buying a sheet of poly, cutting to size and boxing it out would be easier than foaming and shaping.

Keep up the good work.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jan 16, 2014 2:10 pm

by BB Sig

I had often pondered the brad nail idea but never bothered to ask. Now I know not to do it!

I love that I can learn from someone else who is more experienced and not ruin a boat.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jan 16, 2014 4:10 pm

by Cracker Larry

I suppose buying a sheet of poly, cutting to size and boxing it out would be easier than foaming and shaping.
Keep up the good work.

I did consider pouring it with foam, but decided sheet polystyrene may be better. That's how I did my OD18 and it has worked perfectly. It's almost the exact same setup as the GF18. The foam fits flush to the cleats...

And then the inner walls are glued to the cleats and glassed inside.

I have plywood backing plates installed for the drains and overflow fittings. One of the compartments is strictly a cooler, the other is a live well that can double as a cooler.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jan 16, 2014 4:35 pm

by garym

Hope all is well.

Does the plywood on the bottom keep the sides locked in place?

How much insulating value do you get from the polystyrene. Probably tough to answer.
How does it perform when compared to an igloo cooler?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jan 16, 2014 6:47 pm

by peter-curacao

garym wrote:How does it perform when compared to an igloo cooler?

I did my coolers more or less the same as Larry's,(see my pics) I used P3 duct board, it holds ice for about 2 days over here (and my hatches doesn't seal to good)

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jan 17, 2014 8:35 am

by Cracker Larry

I think it holds ice better than an Igloo. It has more foam and the 2 layers of plywood are much better insulation than a thin plastic coating.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jan 17, 2014 9:28 am

by gk108

Cracker Larry wrote:I think it holds ice better than an Igloo. It has more foam and the 2 layers of plywood are much better insulation than a thin plastic coating.

And it won't slide around on the deck like an Igloo.

Bob Burgess had one of the best cooler setups I've seen in his Compac 19. He had the porta-potty cutout between the V-berth removed from the liner and dropped a large cube type Igloo in the hole and then poured foam around it. He'd freeze a 5 gal. plastic jerrycan of water for dripless ice (no drain). It was great for camp-cruising foodstuffs, but not much of a fish box. I went with him on a 2 week lobstering trip to Key West several years ago and it kept ice for 4 days. We rented a freezer locker at the marina and kept a second can of ice in it to swap out if needed when we dropped off our daily catch.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jan 17, 2014 4:50 pm

by garym

Is this the right foam?

Home Depot
CelloFoam 3/4 in. x 4 ft. x 8 ft. Polystyrene Foam Insulation Board
Model # PF012-216-768PG Store SO SKU # 532811

R Value 2.85

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jan 19, 2014 8:52 am

by stickystuff

You want to use the blue foam. I would go with 1" or more. Don't use the white stuff. Its junk.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jan 22, 2014 10:55 am

by Cracker Larry

Good gosh it is cold in the south

Winter is seriously interfering with my boat building schedule.

Still plugging away on the console inside the shop. Too cold today to even try to heat it with the propane heater. Working in limited warm space, a little bit at a time but still moving forward.

More pre-coating and priming...

More cleat gluing...

Horizontal divider panel glued and filleted in..

More priming...

Vertical divider panel glued and filleted..

Also got the rear frame trimmed up and sanded, cockpit drains cleaned up, fuel tank compartment sanded and ready for tinted epoxy coating if it ever gets warm enough to apply epoxy outside again. Thought I had a picture, guess not.

Going to draw up the fuel tank today and email it to the boss, too dang cold to do much else. Somebody wake me up in the spring

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jan 25, 2014 7:26 am

by jtdums

May I ask a console question?
How much room did you allow between your console and the side?
I'm trying to size my new console for my OD and don't want to go too large. (I saw your pictures of your old OD console and wonder if you are doing anything differently now a days.)
Thanks very much.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jan 25, 2014 8:00 am

by Cracker Larry

The console on my OD18 is 32" wide and there is plenty of room on the sides. This one is 30" and the GF18 is wider than the OD. I'll measure the actual clearance for you later, it's 15 dang degrees outside right now

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jan 25, 2014 8:07 am

by jtdums

Thanks for the help.
The cold has forced me inside to do console work too.
Can't get the shop over 60 degrees.
I'm thinking of tabbing together the console from outside and using fillets on the inside instead of battens. More hassle than it's worth?
Why the battens?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jan 25, 2014 12:30 pm

by Cracker Larry

My OD18 has 16" between the console and each side, at sole level. The GF18 will have 22.

The cleats are much stronger than just a fillet without tape, and filleting and taping everything inside would be a major pain. Before you can tape and glass the outside you will need to round over all the seams, which requires the assembly to be sturdy enough to run a router over it, so it makes more sense to me to glue it up from the inside first. More than one way to do it for sure though.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jan 25, 2014 3:39 pm

by Fuzz

Larry,
I am putting a console in my OD-18 now. I am wondering if you had it to do over if you would make it a little less wide or not? I am sure the 22 inches for the GF18 is going to be enough. That is one wide boat for sure.
Maybe you guys need to think about moving to Alaska? It has been over 40 here for the past two weeks. All the snow is gone

and it is looking like spring

Fuzz

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jan 25, 2014 9:00 pm

by jtdums

Forty in Alaska means I should be back glassing in about a week.

Come on warm weather.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jan 26, 2014 7:13 am

by Cracker Larry

I am putting a console in my OD-18 now. I am wondering if you had it to do over if you would make it a little less wide or not?

Fuzz, I might reduce it to 30", but no narrower than that. It really works well at 32 and leaves plenty of room to move around it.
And no, I'm not coming to Alaska

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jan 27, 2014 2:11 am

by Fuzz

Fuzz, I might reduce it to 30", but no narrower than that. It really works well at 32 and leaves plenty of room to move around it.
And no, I'm not coming to Alaska - CL

Well you cant blame a guy for trying to get a master craftsman close to home.

Thanks for the advise on the console.

Do you know what you will be using for power on the GF-18 yet?

Thanks, Fuzz

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jan 27, 2014 7:27 am

by Cracker Larry

Fuzz, it's supposed to snow here tomorrow and Wednesday

I'm already too far north!

Do you know what you will be using for power on the GF-18 yet?

Yamaha 90

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jan 27, 2014 6:22 pm

by Cracker Larry

This is how the steering pod fits on the console. It is cypress and will be bright finished. The main body of the console will be painted.

These boards will be the face of the pod, also cypress. Planed flat and uniform thickness. Love this little planer

Then ripped to size and cut biscuit joints for edge gluing. Love the biscuit (plate) jointer too! Very handy.

Glued it up..

Clamped it flat..

After this dries I'll laminate a piece of 1/4 ply to the back side of it to keep it stable and give it plenty of strength for the steering wheel mounting.

Building on.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jan 27, 2014 6:43 pm

by Hope2float

Larry that is some fine wood working. I happen to love blind dovetails. they look great when showed off. That is a good design for the steering pod. I know it will look great. That joint is a very strong mechanical connection as if you didn't know. I mentioned that for those out there who may not know. Larry your stamina impresses me, I am about out of gas and ready to lay down like a beat dog.
BUILD=ON!
Dave

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jan 27, 2014 6:54 pm

by Rogerdog

Much better.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jan 27, 2014 8:56 pm

by jtdums

Why the steering pod? Is it just cosmetic or does it also have some additional added benefit?
I'm thinking it moves the wheel closer to seat/ leaning post to give foot room and add comfort.

(Sorry for the rookie question.)

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jan 28, 2014 8:52 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Dave. Wish I could take credit for the dovetail joints but I'm not quite that good

We enlisted some outside help for those.

Why the steering pod? Is it just cosmetic or does it also have some additional added benefit?
I'm thinking it moves the wheel closer to seat/ leaning post to give foot room and add comfort.

All of the above. Mainly because that's what my client wants and I aim to please

Much better.

Yep

In other news we've got a custom gas tank on order from Speedytanks.com, 8 or 9 Jim Black hatches on order from Great Lakes Skipper, and a custom aluminum trailer under construction

Bad weather coming soon, heavy icing by afternoon. Got the generator tuned and tested, plenty of gas, extra propane, and everything else we need to be self sufficient for a few days. No boat building today

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jan 29, 2014 11:41 am

by Steven

Are you going to cut the plywood away under the steering pod and glass down the inside of the pod to the underside of the console face. I'm considering a similar add to my new console build to change the angle of the wheel a bit. I wonder if that top layer of ply is up to the task of the forces that might be applied in rough conditions.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jan 30, 2014 11:29 am

by Cracker Larry

Steven, yes, I will cut a section of the plywood out under the pod to give clearance for the hydraulic helm unit and the hoses. We plan to attach the pod with cleats glued to the inside perimeter. It will be plenty strong.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jan 31, 2014 10:17 am

by gk108

Cracker Larry wrote:It will be plenty strong.

The helmsman needs a handle when it's "one hand for the ship and one hand for yourself" type conditions.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jan 31, 2014 12:28 pm

by Steven

Exactly. I'm sure I over think things. I see the bond between the plys as the weak point, so when I have forces pulling directly away from the surface, I try to not leave that bond to chance. However, I'm no engineer and don't know the forces required to cause a delamination in the ply or if it's even a concern. Probably obscenely large forces needed when considering the surface area the glass spreads the forces over. I just try to wrap glass around to the back side of things to make myself feel better.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Feb 10, 2014 4:01 pm

by Doc_Dyer

Doc_Dyer wrote:

this thread was almost on second page

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Feb 10, 2014 5:56 pm

by glossieblack

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Feb 10, 2014 6:44 pm

by Cracker Larry

I knew that was coming

Dangit, I told yall to wake me up in the spring. Another ice storm forecast for tomorrow night and Wednesday, it ain't spring yet

Felt almost like it yesterday and today though. This has been the coldest winter we've had in many years. Still plodding along with the console, burning propane and lots of firewood.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Feb 10, 2014 7:24 pm

by glossieblack

Your sole will flourish cometh spring.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Feb 10, 2014 8:37 pm

by Cracker Larry

Your sole will flourish cometh spring.

I hope I do too

Test pic: I think I'm having Photobucket issues

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Feb 10, 2014 8:38 pm

by Cracker Larry

Yep, that's weird. Will try a reload.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Feb 10, 2014 8:44 pm

by glossieblack

Image coming through is like a collage of a number of images, Larry.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Feb 10, 2014 8:51 pm

by Cracker Larry

Yep, that is my issue

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Feb 10, 2014 9:10 pm

by Cracker Larry

Always something that needs fixing.

Not moving as fast as I would like, but still moving forward

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Feb 10, 2014 10:04 pm

by Hope2float

Larry good to see you still moving forward. Keep at it looks good
BUILD-ON!
Dave

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Feb 19, 2014 10:12 am

by Cracker Larry

Still building, slow but sure. After much bad weather it is finally warm like it should be again so hope to get a lot done this week

Dang I'm tired of this winter.

Gas tank arrived from Speedy Tank after a week delay from weather. I though somebody had sent me a coffin

Unpacked and checked out, everything good, got all the pieces and parts we need...

Tested for fit, it's tight but dang near perfect. I tried to use every available inch for fuel, think I accomplished that.

Removed it, fit and cut neoprene mounting strips and glued them on with 5200. Got them weighted down to hold flat while curing.. slow cure 5200 will take a few days.

Then put another layer of glass in the tank compartment. I wanted to double it up where the tank rests. Yesterday was the first day in a month I've been able to work outside with epoxy

Back at it today. I've got to cut vent holes in the compartment and install some backing plates for cleats and then we'll be ready to permanently set the tank. After that will work on forward deck hatches.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Feb 19, 2014 10:44 pm

by Biscuit

Looking great Larry!

Read through this thread from page 1 to present. Wow, you are one heck of a methodic fella. Everything has a place and everything in it's place kind of guy. And my close friends call me OCD. Makes for one heck of a finished product though. Hope my PG22 comes close to that level of detail. Keep it up buddy

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Feb 20, 2014 8:20 am

by topwater

Nice work Larry , gotta love speedy tanks they build a nice tank

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Feb 20, 2014 9:47 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks John. Yep, got to love Speedy Tanks, they do a good job, speedy too

I really like this epoxy coating they are using now, saves a lot of trouble doing it yourself.

And my close friends call me OCD.

Guilty as charged, Biscuit

That Panga 22 is going to require a lot of thought and organization too. There are thousands of details to ponder, planning ahead and organization is the key to success. That and being stubborn

It's like eating an elephant, one bite at a time, but you got to know which bites to take when.

A few more bites out the elephant yesterday. Cut out the vent holes for tank compartment and working out the stern cleats arrangement. Dang, these are some STOUT cleats

Maybe a little large for the application, maybe not

These will mount on the bulkhead and lead through hawsepipes to the gunwale. Got to get the backing plates in for them before installing the gas tank.

Worked out the front hatch positions after a bit of pondering and email exchanges of pictures with the boss.

A 2" hole saw makes the perfect corner radius for these hatches..

Finished the cut outs with a jig saw.

Today I'm going to make some stiffeners under this deck, and a backing plate for a pedestal seat base that's going on there.

Spring is definitely in the air. Had robins in the yard the last couple of days, bluebirds starting to nest in their BS1088 boxes, yellow pollen on everything, and this morning the wild turkeys are gobbling behind the house like madmen

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Feb 20, 2014 10:21 am

by tech_support

clean work as always

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Feb 20, 2014 12:38 pm

by pee wee

You make it look textbook perfect, Larry. Nothing like experience along with organization ( both of ideas and of work ) to make it look easy. Thanks for posting such a careful report of your build.

Any out-takes to post in the "Funniest Boat Builder" thread?

. . . . of course not.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Feb 21, 2014 5:29 am

by Biscuit

Guilty as charged, Biscuit That Panga 22 is going to require a lot of thought and organization too. There are thousands of details to ponder, planning ahead and organization is the key to success. That and being stubborn It's like eating an elephant, one bite at a time, but you got to know which bites to take when.

I'm in it to win it Larry, one bite at a time.

I know looks are deceiving and what can you really tell from a picture and a few lines of text but you do make the job look easy. Inspiring brother

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Feb 21, 2014 8:08 am

by topwater

Quick question ,

Larry what size pan head screws do you use on those hatches

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Feb 21, 2014 9:51 am

by Cracker Larry

John, the mounting screws are #10 X 1".

A few more bites out of the elephant...hope to get this glued up today, weather permitting. Tornado warnings now

Tank ready for install...

Battening down the hatches

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Feb 21, 2014 11:38 pm

by Rogerdog

It's been through a three month flood, a couple of ice storms, an earthquake, and now a tornado! Ocean should be no problem.

Looks good Cracker.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Feb 22, 2014 8:17 am

by Cracker Larry

Survived the tornadoes

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Feb 25, 2014 9:39 am

by Cracker Larry

Still building, had a few days of nice weather and took advantage of them. That's going to change tonight.

Seems to be no end to fitting and priming cleats and parts...

And gluing, gluing, gluing...

And sanding, sanding, sanding, got the entire inside of the cockpit sanded too. Building on

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Feb 25, 2014 7:11 pm

by justin_dwyer

Looking good Larry

Got a question for you, once you have primed all those parts, before you glue them to the boat, do you wash them down (acetone, warm water, etc), then sand them a bit (for tooth) and then glue them on, or do you just prime and then glue them?

Thanks mate.

Cheers
Justin.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Feb 26, 2014 9:36 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Justin. Yes, each piece gets wiped down, usually with alcohol, and lightly sanded for some tooth. It's tedious but we don't want the glue joints to fail later.

Almost finished with this deck, finally. 2 coats of epoxy on it, 1 more to go.

Raining and cold again, not much going to get done today. Heading up to Raymond's to pick up some more 5200 for mounting the gas tank.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Mar 06, 2014 1:48 pm

by Doc_Dyer

with all the great weather we've had in the last 8 days ,
someone must have been fishing

either that or a computer/camera problem

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Mar 06, 2014 3:31 pm

by Cracker Larry

I figured it was time for you to show up again

Great weather, 36 and raining now, hasn't been above 40 in a week, been raining since Monday

Last weekend was nice for a couple of days anyway, got a little done.

Gas tank is permanently mounted. Casting deck has 3 coats of epoxy under it, glue locations sanded and cleaned and is ready to install.

Drilled vent holes for casting deck locker, sealed with 3 coats of epoxy. Made backing block for drain tube, glued in, drilled for 1" tube and sealed with 3 coats of epoxy. Backing blocks for forward cleats primed and glued to frame. These will lead through hawse pipes on the side decks, just like the stern.

Fitted the cleats for the trolling motor batteries, gave them 2 coats of epoxy and glued them down. 2 Grp 27 batteries will mount here.

Did a lot of other little things that all add up eventually. Not many pictures. Weather has been and still is dismal. Looking better for the weekend and first of next week. Expecting a trailer to be coming this weekend too

Moving slow, but still moving forward

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Mar 06, 2014 7:38 pm

by Hope2float

Cracker kicking A$$ as always. Looks great keep on banging.
Dave

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Mar 09, 2014 6:11 pm

by Cracker Larry

Still banging away Dave. Had a couple days of nice weather, saw the sun again for the first time in a week

Don't know how yall live in the north country

2 coats of tinted epoxy in the anchor and casting deck lockers. One yesterday, one today. Looks pretty good, but I think I'll give it another coat.

The desired objective is a cream color but epoxy tints are limited, so we mixed white and tan to get the color we wanted. A lot more white than tan, that tan tint looks like a dirty diaper

The tints are very thick and hard to work with, especially trying to blend 2 colors. I put the tubs in hot water for a little while to make it more user friendly.

The big girl got a set of wheels yesterday also. A very nice set of wheels

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Mar 09, 2014 6:17 pm

by pee wee

Wow, it just keeps getting better and better! I think somebody is going to be getting a boat they'll be mighty proud of, a real beauty.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Mar 13, 2014 9:09 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Hank. We had a few nice weather days this week and got a few more bites taken out of the elephant.

2 more coats of tinted epoxy in the 2 bow lockers for a total of 4 coats. Looks good now! Set 2 eye bolts in oversize epoxy plugs for the battery hold down strap. Masked off the edges of the locker to keep glue drips off our nice finish, in prep for gluing down the casting deck.

Got the casting deck glued down.

Cleats fitted and primed for the gas tank locker deck..

And a few other little things. Running low on epoxy again, time to order more. Weather has gone to heck again, cold and windy today, won't be any epoxy work going on.

Building on, as the spirits allow

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Mar 13, 2014 11:20 am

by BB Sig

Boats looking good. My oldest middle keeps telling me that we have 6 more weeks of winter. I hope he's wrong.

How's the wife doing?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Mar 13, 2014 5:00 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Barry. Mrs. Cracker is doing very good. I hope he's wrong too! Dang, what a winter.

Too cold and windy for glue today but perfect for sanding, so we sanded. Getting the deck ready for tape and glass.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Mar 14, 2014 1:37 am

by antoniekruger

Hi Larry, the build is looking very good. It's brilliant to see things fall in place so neatly. When I take a part 'a bite of my dino' I have to sit down and work it through mentally, then check the blogs for confirmation, then ponder another day or so if it is he best way of doing the job and then I commit. It gets easier with time, I suppose. Just the sanding......
I'm waiting to spray first final and then the flip. The weather have been wickedly strange. 3 weeks of soaking rain...this time of the year

The lump in the bow compartment - is that the backing pate for the bow eye? Do you use ply or another harder wood?

It is good to hear that the Cracker clan is mended again.

Antonie

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Mar 16, 2014 7:43 pm

by cottontop

Larry glad to hear Mrs. Cracker is doing well. Ya'll have been in our prayers constantly. The boat is looking great. Really fine work. Who built the trailer and what cost $? Take care. John

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Mar 16, 2014 8:15 pm

by Cracker Larry

Antoine, I spend a lot of time pondering before committing myself also. It's time usually well spent

Yes, the lump in the bow is the backing block for the bow eye. It is 1 1/4" plywood.

John, the trailer was custom made by Owens and Sons Marine in St. Pete. I don't know what it cost. Thanks for the prayers

Weather is crappy again, pouring rain all day, supposed to rain until Wednesday. Not a good weekend for rain in Savannah, 500,000 tourists here for the St. Patricks Day madness. I stay in the woods!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Mar 16, 2014 8:22 pm

by Aripeka Angler

Owens and Sons make great trailers

I had one under my 268 Islander.
Your build is looking great! Git her done so we can go fishing

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Mar 17, 2014 8:31 am

by stickystuff

Unfortunately I am not related to this Owens clan. We do a lot of stuff but not in the trailer division.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Mar 18, 2014 6:23 am

by blueflood

Hi CL,

How does the tinted epoxy look ? That is what I plan to do on Harmony's internals. Since I will be using an off-white tint, I was wondering about the tint's opaqueness (?) i.e. is it saturated or transluscent ? To get your coverage, I assume two coats ?
I like the idea of a simple dual purpose finish for the inside: hard, glossy and easy to scrub clean if need be plus I am not going overboard on the finish even with a 1/8" roller, I do not mind the orange peel look on those cabin and cockpit surfaces (anti-slip on sole). My energy will be spent on the outside

Marc

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Mar 18, 2014 9:49 am

by Cracker Larry

Git her done so we can go fishing

40 degrees and raining again, Richard. Not getting much done in this weather

Marc, the tinted epoxy looks great, looks as good as paint, very glossy and smooth, no orange peel. It is slightly translucent and it took 3 coats to get the coverage I wanted. Much easier to apply than paint and much less expensive than good paint. Certainly tougher.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Mar 18, 2014 5:26 pm

by blueflood

Thank you Larry that is great to hear !

Marc

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Mar 18, 2014 8:18 pm

by Aripeka Angler

Cracker Larry wrote:
Git her done so we can go fishing
40 degrees and raining again, Richard. Not getting much done in this weather

Your getting more done than I am! That is going to be one tricked out GF18.
We should plan to do some fish killing when it warms up.
I'm also looking forward to a few days in warm and sunny Boca Grande

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Mar 18, 2014 9:23 pm

by Cracker Larry

That is going to be one tricked out GF18.

Yes she is

Got a new F90 Yamaha on order and received a full set of gauges, data hubs, gadgets and a dozen different harnesses, adapters and such today for it. I'll be smarter when I figure out how all this stuff works and integrates together

Something to study on a cold rainy day.

We should plan to do some fish killing when it warms up.

I'm ready, When is it going to get warm? Ready for Boca too. That's not far off now, maybe it will be warm by then.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Mar 19, 2014 11:14 am

by Aripeka Angler

When is it going to get warm?

I finally got rid of my pos Hewes so I have an extra garage you could use til it warms up

On vacation, I think I will go shopping for that windlass today

My back feels better already...

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Mar 19, 2014 1:18 pm

by Cracker Larry

My back feels better already...

Mine too !!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Mar 19, 2014 1:51 pm

by garym

Curious.

Did you do any extra glass work over and above the plans to accommodate for the 90hp engine you are using.

Thx

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Mar 19, 2014 4:14 pm

by Cracker Larry

Not really. Both the F90 and F75 weigh the same at 366 pounds. I did add a couple of extra layers of tape around the transom, but nothing else. It is plenty strong enough.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Mar 19, 2014 4:17 pm

by garym

Thx.

Trying to decide between the 60hp evinrude at 240 lbs and a 75hp at 340lbs.

I didn't do any extra glass in the transom area so I wanted to make sure I won't have a problem with a 75hp

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Mar 19, 2014 5:30 pm

by Cracker Larry

I think you would be fine with the 75. This is a stout boat.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Mar 19, 2014 6:40 pm

by garym

Thx. 75hp it is.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Mar 22, 2014 6:46 pm

by Cracker Larry

The weather has finally been a little better. No, it's been a lot better

Still taking little bites out of the elephant.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Mar 22, 2014 8:55 pm

by Rogerdog

Elephant is sooo delicious!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Mar 23, 2014 11:36 am

by willg

Yep, that's one sweet elephant right there.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Mar 23, 2014 5:41 pm

by Cracker Larry

A few more bites out of the elephant. Spring is here today but it's supposed to be 30 degrees colder tomorrow

Spring is having a hard time getting a grip this year

Getting with it while I can

Tired of eating elephant, yellowfin tuna steaks tonight

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Mar 23, 2014 7:11 pm

by pee wee

That's a lot of good looking boat building work there, but it also makes one appreciate (or wonder at) those who take on a huge project like a TW28 type of boat in their spare time. I'm sure you take it on for the love of it, but at some point surely you wonder what you were thinking!

Anyway, looking good, Cracker. Every step is progress for you and an inspiration to the rest of us.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Mar 24, 2014 10:31 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Pee Wee, appreciate it.

it also makes one appreciate (or wonder at) those who take on a huge project like a TW28 type of boat in their spare time. I'm sure you take it on for the love of it, but at some point surely you wonder what you were thinking!

Man, I don't know how they do it. Makes my back hurt just thinking about it

This is about as large a project as I can manage alone and it's a struggle. This may be my last one, not sure I've got another one in me

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Mar 24, 2014 11:08 am

by garym

Lets see what happens after you recover from this one.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Mar 24, 2014 3:28 pm

by Noles309

Is that 6oz cloth?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Mar 24, 2014 7:23 pm

by Cracker Larry

Lets see what happens after you recover from this one.

Yep. Assuming I recover

Is that 6oz cloth?

No, 12 ounce biax.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Mar 25, 2014 6:58 am

by Knottybuoyz

pee wee wrote:.........but it also makes one appreciate (or wonder at) those who take on a huge project like a TW28 type of boat in their spare time. I'm sure you take it on for the love of it, but at some point surely you wonder what you were thinking

I ask myself that very question each and every time I walk out into the boat shed!

It's easily a two or three person build but a builder with the experience, skills and level of care that Larry takes with his boats would certainly be able to do it. It's just a matter of time, persistence and Oh Yeah, Money!

Build on Dusty Cracker, we're watching!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Mar 25, 2014 11:13 am

by Cracker Larry

Reminds me of the country song " I know what I was feelin' but what was I thinkin' ?

Crappy weather again, rain and cold, supposed to be below freezing again tonight. Great

Finally broke down and ordered a new computer. Going to miss this old Dell but I reckon 11 years is a good life. I must be one of the last people in the country running Windows XP. My bank tells me they won't support it after next month for on-line banking, hearing the same from Pay-Pal, and MS is dropping all support on April 8, so I guess it's time to move on. Not looking forward to learning a new OS, or moving all of my data.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Mar 25, 2014 1:24 pm

by SalmonMan

Cracker Larry wrote:Finally broke down and ordered a new computer. Going to miss this old Dell but I reckon 11 years is a good life. I must be one of the last people in the country running Windows XP. My bank tells me they won't support it after next month for on-line banking, hearing the same from Pay-Pal, and MS is dropping all support on April 8, so I guess it's time to move on. Not looking forward to learning a new OS, or moving all of my data.

The local library system went back to using Windows XP. They claim it is a more stable platform then newer Windows OS. Good luck with your venture and build on!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Mar 25, 2014 1:40 pm

by BB Sig

My wife is running a 10 year old Dell as well. I've finally convinced her to order a new dell but she wants to keep her old monitor because it fits. Windows 8 is not too bad but I am a computer geek so ymmv.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Mar 25, 2014 4:07 pm

by Joe H

Got a new computer at home last month, after using windows 8 I miss my XP!

8 degree's tonight, breaking another record!

Joe H

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Mar 25, 2014 8:17 pm

by Cracker Larry

I couldn't bring myself to go to Windows 8. Decided on 7 pro.

I've finally convinced her to order a new dell but she wants to keep her old monitor because it fits.

That's what I ordered too was another Dell. Had great service from them so far. Getting a 24" monitor with it

8 degree's tonight, breaking another record!

That's ugly

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Mar 25, 2014 9:39 pm

by MarkOrge

I guess ugly for down there. We should be sprouting tulips and we're still in snow storms with double digit wind factor temperatures in the negative zone....

I am keeping my eye out for my line of work in Central Eastern Australia or U.S. Gulf area. Had enough of using snow shovels....

Build on !

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Mar 26, 2014 12:03 am

by Marshall Moser

Cracker Larry wrote:I couldn't bring myself to go to Windows 8. Decided on 7 pro.

You can't go wrong with Win7. I'm not a fan of Win8. It's too far on the tablet end of the spectrum. My boss is running it on a Surface tablet, and he loves it, but I can't use a 10" tablet as a primary computer.

I think Win7 is very similar to XP. It will be an easy transition.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Mar 26, 2014 3:34 pm

by ks8

I suppose I should say goodbye to the Apple II and C64.

The GF is looking properly dauntless.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Mar 26, 2014 9:08 pm

by Cracker Larry

Dang it, FedEx came with my new computer today while I was at Lowes buying more sanding disks. Signature required. Reckon I'll be sanding tomorrow when it comes back

Hang on to that C64 Karl, I keep mine along with my Vic20, Pong machine and Confederate money

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Mar 26, 2014 11:23 pm

by robbiro

I still have an XT with two 5.25" floppies and DOS 3.3 for the OS. Monochrome monitor also!!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Mar 27, 2014 11:24 am

by ks8

Well, you caught me prepping for another dump run. I tossed the CP/M machine with the 5 mb Hard Drive. I don't have the time or room to be a museum curator anymore.

The Apple IIe and IIgs are gone too. Still got the V20 chip XT clone, but that's on the toss list too. I might even have a DOS 1.1 floppy somewhere, and MacOS 1.0 through 10.3. A few 0.9 versions of software - Photoshop, Quark Express, Pagemaker.... got to go. They're probably not readable anymore now. The Mac 512k is queued up for the trash, drives and all. If I want to hear that startup sound anymore, I'll watch Wall-e do a solar recharge. Unix boxes - gone. Old Mandrake and SUSE install CDs, being dropped in the trash now. Never had an Amiga. Might keep the Radio Shack 40 column LCD laptop though. Never know when a simple RS232 terminal might be useful. And then there's those hard drives. I won't bore with the rest of the list, but keeping the C64. That packed a punch for its size.

I need to get a mighty bulk eraser that will cause a small aurora over the Tampa Bay area. Get your camera ready Craig. I'll post when I fire it up.

No confederate money here. You're older than I thought CL ...

The dollars here might only be coupons soon, with expiration dates, redeemable for 1/10 cent cash value.

Well - render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar's, unto God the things that are God's. Me thinks Caesar could use some serious help.

Cold and wet here today... cooler than the past winter. A good sanding day.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Mar 27, 2014 3:55 pm

by cottontop

Larry, Guess we bought a similar unit at about thee same time. Wife uses it mostly and we have a Dell laptop with windows 7 on it. Got daughter to set up our email(I'm not a computer whizz myself) and just trashed the old system yesterday after receiving the same info you did. Winter may be over soon?! I hope!!!!! John

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Mar 27, 2014 6:04 pm

by gk108

ks8 wrote:Me thinks Caesar could use some serious help

But, the Good Lord helps those who help themselves and Caesar doesn't seem to have any problem helping himself any time he wants.

My big problem isn't old hardware, it's "deprecated" language. Most everything I've published on the web uses mysql language to interface with a web server database. Mysql is used by millions of websites. Even this forum uses it, unless phpBB has already upgraded.

Now we have to use the improved language, mysqli. The added "i" stands for insanity.
I have around 2500 scripts to edit between now and ???? when "deprecated" becomes "removed".

It's enough to drive a man to fairing something.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Mar 27, 2014 6:33 pm

by ks8

I hear that

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Mar 27, 2014 7:19 pm

by toddinbr

Hopefully you sold the Apple 2's ($200-800 a piece) they would pay for quite a bit of epoxy. Heck the C64's are bringing good money too. I saw a show about how collectible they become. Who would've thunk it...

CL the boat is looking great!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Mar 27, 2014 9:35 pm

by Cracker Larry

Up and running on the new machine

I was sanding away this morning when FedX came but they only delivered the CPU

Oh well, back to sanding. About 4 hours later another FedX truck drives up with the monitor and keyboard. Weird. Finished up the sanding and started putting this bad boy together. Dang, it's fast! So far so good

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Mar 27, 2014 9:36 pm

by Cracker Larry

No confederate money here. You're older than I thought CL ...

My great grandaddy buried it under the pecan tree

And I think everybody knows my thoughts on Caesar

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Mar 28, 2014 8:36 am

by ks8

May the new CPU serve you well and long.

What's next after the current sanding?

about Caesar, I guess I'd have to go *bilge*, in more ways than one. It all needs some vigorously wise sanding, a good shopvac, and good drainage when done.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Mar 28, 2014 9:04 am

by Cracker Larry

What's next after the current sanding?

Looks like we're going to get a few warm (rainy) days, so back to gluing. Next will be laminating and cutting the intermediate frames to support the gunwales. There will be 6 of these and my client wants them to be at least 1" thick so I have to laminate up some ply for those. Got a few more cleats to glue in for the fuel tank compartment, then start finishing up the motor well and rear lockers. Moving along as weather allows.

about Caesar, I guess I'd have to go *bilge*, in more ways than one. It all needs some vigorously wise sanding, a good shopvac, and good drainage when done

Amen,that's a bilge subject for sure

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Mar 28, 2014 9:44 am

by gk108

When you do laminations like that, do you cut the pieces first, then glue, or do you laminate big pieces, then cut the little parts from that?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Mar 28, 2014 9:55 am

by Cracker Larry

I laminate them in big pieces first and cut the little parts from that.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Mar 28, 2014 11:39 am

by peter-curacao

Larry boat looks great!

if that work doesn't please your customer nothing will!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Mar 28, 2014 3:52 pm

by Rogerdog

He's pleased

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Mar 28, 2014 5:47 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks yall

I laminate them in big pieces first and cut the little parts from that.

That was the plan, but after pondering and fiddling and measuring I decided it would waste too much wood and epoxy, so I'm cutting all the pieces out first. I don't have enough 1/2" to do it, so my choices were 4 layers of 1/4 or 3 layers of 3/8. Cut out 18 pieces of 3/8, 18" long and 8" wide for the blanks. Got the forward set of frames fitted. They are chunky, but chunky was requested

Pictures to follow when I get this PC and photobucket cooperating.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Mar 28, 2014 6:38 pm

by Cracker Larry

Got to start somewhere.. think I got this figured out

Gunwale frames always give me a fit. It took most of the day to fit 2 matching sets, 3 pieces per set. Still need some tweaking. Still experimenting. The 3 layers are held together with 2 screws. No glue yet.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Mar 28, 2014 7:56 pm

by Cracker Larry

Yep, the more I look at that, the less I like it

Those inside straight lines need to be a fat curve, not a skinny triangle. I've got to fit rod holder slots in there somewhere. I've got a better idea now I think, stand by for prototype 2 tomorrow. This always takes me 3 tries

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Mar 29, 2014 8:32 am

by peter-curacao

How about nice slim 76 mm frames with foldable starboard rodholder slots?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Mar 29, 2014 10:32 am

by Cracker Larry

Not sure I follow you Peter

Got a picture or drawing?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Mar 29, 2014 12:49 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:Not sure I follow you Peter Got a picture or drawing?

Larry I made you a quick sketch, sorry it's a bit messy but almost sure you will understand. I like the 76 mm frames in my boat a lot, they are elegant not bulky, the only thing is the moment you make rod holder slots in there they become flimsy

I know this because I tried in mine, so I thought about something like this, still not executed it but maybe one day I will
When not in use you pivot the starboard (or ply) rod holders upwards out of the way

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Mar 29, 2014 7:42 pm

by Cracker Larry

Very interesting idea

I'm going to ponder on that a while. Might mock it up in cardboard. In the meantime still building...

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Mar 29, 2014 9:42 pm

by Cracker Larry

Peter, the more I think about that, the more I like it. Never seen that done before, very cool. I happen to have a good friend who is a master at shaping starboard

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Mar 30, 2014 8:17 am

by justin_dwyer

That is a great idea with those folding rod holders.

Cracker your build is looking great, based on your work rate, my boat is looking to take me about 10 years to complete

Keep it up.

Cheers
Justin

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Mar 30, 2014 1:03 pm

by ks8

nice idea. peter, have you worked out a method to hold it in place down, deployed, and hold it up out of the way?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Mar 30, 2014 1:28 pm

by peter-curacao

ks8 wrote:nice idea. peter, have you worked out a method to hold it in place down, deployed, and hold it up out of the way?

Thanks all

yeah it's a simple idea what could work I think

To hold it up I don't see a problem, it's screwed or bolted snug on the pivot point against the frame, to hold it in place while loaded with gear I was thinking a filler (starboard) piece also against the frame, just above a pointy corner something like this.

Larry sent me the cardboard temp plates

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Mar 30, 2014 8:35 pm

by ks8

and about the templates too. Happy starboard cutting!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Mar 31, 2014 1:09 pm

by Cracker Larry

based on your work rate, my boat is looking to take me about 10 years to complete

Based on my progress lately, this one might too

Hopefully this winter from hell is over.

Thanks to Peter's imagination and my client taking it a step further, we now have a new design in the works

The hook and pivot details will need to be fine tuned.Will probably make the holders out of stainless or aluminum plate. Maybe starboard, waiting on advice from Raymond on that.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Mar 31, 2014 1:23 pm

by ks8

When the winter from hell is over, it could make for an interesting spring, a spring of all those things that would never happen until *hell freezes over*. Some good, some not so good?

Let's hope for just the good.

Maybe I'll get my seat tops painted!

Looking forward to pictures of the actual assembly, and the mechanism to enable deploying them out of the slot.

Will the middle laminate match the shape of the retracted holder, so there is less space for crud to form in there, or will it have a little extra space so they still retract fully even if some garbage gets in there? Maybe some soft foam, or better, a bit of serviceable cork or a strip of leather, to prevent rattling, and/or a nice friction fit between nylon washers, or both? Looks good and clean.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Apr 01, 2014 9:37 am

by gk108

That's a cool concept for rod holders.

Regarding the middle filler piece, it might be best to leave room there to allow you to fine tune the exact shape of the hooks, if necessary.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Apr 01, 2014 9:43 am

by wegcagle

Really neat idea

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Apr 01, 2014 11:02 am

by gk108

For some friction, you might be able to use SS springs from a single-handle faucet repair kit. I used it for these hatch dogs on my V10.
http://gallery.bateau2.com/albums/userp ... l_1680.jpg
http://gallery.bateau2.com/albums/userp ... l_1679.jpg

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Apr 01, 2014 12:17 pm

by peter-curacao

gk108 wrote:For some friction, you might be able to use SS springs

In the latest "design" (Larry's) I don't think you need friction, if I understand correctly because of the gravity the rods are hanging into there holders against the frames, I like this design if not better then mine, only downside of this design I think is you can't grab material like a gaff real quickly.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Apr 01, 2014 12:31 pm

by ks8

Good point. There could be a separate holder, open, for a gaf or boathook on the other side, more like the first drawing. When motoring from spot to spot, these folding holders are nice while a rod isn't active, and are sure out of the way and clean when the poles are in use. But I can't think about this one much more or I'll never get my seat tops painted.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Apr 01, 2014 9:27 pm

by Cracker Larry

I'm going to mull all that over in my head while I work on something that I know what to do with. Got some ideas and got Raymond thinkin' on it too. Boat design by committee is a slow process but usually yields good results

In the meantime, we cut and fit all the foamboard for both insulated transom lockers. Got to keep moving forward. Port side is insulated cooler/live well, starboard side is insulated cooler only.

Then cut all the plywood pieces for the inside liners and fine tuned those to fit.

Took all the inside panels back out and primed the inside faces with a heavy coat of epoxy

In the morning I'll give them another coat of epoxy and glue them in later in the day. Then fillet, tape, glass, fair and coat them with tinted epoxy. I can do all this while I continue to ponder frames and rod holders

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Apr 01, 2014 10:41 pm

by justin_dwyer

Very nice work Cracker

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Apr 02, 2014 1:52 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Justin.

Today's boat building was interrupted by Mrs. Cracker having a dead chariot. She says "my car is broke, I'm taking your truck to work". I ask what I'm supposed to do with your broke car? She says fix it, if you want to go anywhere

Determined the alternator is shot. Called around and found one about 20 miles away, can't drive to go get it though.
I ain't much of a mechanic, but I ain't much on paying mechanic labor rates either

Scratched my head on how to get that thing out of the sideways mounted engine, did a youtube search and found 3 videos showing just how to do it. Dang technology is amazing, and useful

Sure can't complain much, car is a 2005 Toyota with 230,000 miles. This is the first mechanical failure it's ever had.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Apr 02, 2014 1:59 pm

by majorgator

...did a youtube search and found 3 videos showing just how to do it.

You can find anything on YouTube!!! A friend of mine self-taught himself how to weld by watching a series of videos on there. Of course, I don't let him weld things for me

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Apr 02, 2014 6:11 pm

by cedarock

Cracker Larry wrote:Thanks Justin.

Today's boat building was interrupted by Mrs. Cracker having a dead chariot. She says "my car is broke, I'm taking your truck to work". I ask what I'm supposed to do with your broke car? She says fix it, if you want to go anywhere
Determined the alternator is shot. Called around and found one about 20 miles away, can't drive to go get it though.
I ain't much of a mechanic, but I ain't much on paying mechanic labor rates either Scratched my head on how to get that thing out of the sideways mounted engine, did a youtube search and found 3 videos showing just how to do it. Dang technology is amazing, and useful

Sure can't complain much, car is a 2005 Toyota with 230,000 miles. This is the first mechanical failure it's ever had.

Technology is amazing! I have had to take the laptop and place it on the engine of our ford escape just to change the spark plugs!

But I can't complain.....the plugs are worth 100,000 miles and I have only had to do it twice. It has been a good car too. The gf18 is looking great!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Apr 02, 2014 10:17 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks for dropping in Cedarock

Don't be a stranger.

Got that @#$%^& alternator out. Dang! Not sure who would want to work on cars for a living, except Prairie Dog

Mrs. Cracker picked us up a new one on her way home in my truck. Notice she didn't ask permission to borrow my truck

I reckon I have to put that %^&$#%^ thing in tomorrow if I ever want to go anywhere again

In boat building news I put a second coat of epoxy inside the locker panels this morning and got the starboard locker glued and filleted in this evening. still moving forward.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Apr 03, 2014 7:35 am

by wegcagle

Nice progress CL

Don't forget to go ahead and put Dori's battery on the trickle charger! Otherwise you still won't be going anywhere

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Apr 03, 2014 8:12 am

by gk108

I am kinda reluctant to admit that I barely recognize the engine in my current Ford van. I had it loaded down with stuff, headed out to play some music in Pelham last week, when it started acting up. Drove it on to Pelham, unloaded and drove home on 7 cylinders with the engine light flashing. I was a little worried about the van, but more worried about the prospect of my $10K worth of gear being marooned in a place with no fire insurance.
Luckily, nothing was marooned. The tiny V8 has one coil per cylinder and #5 went bad. I had to take it to a shop that had a diagnostic computer and leave them some $$$, but I was in and out in an hour.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Apr 03, 2014 8:25 pm

by Cracker Larry

Jeeezzz

Whoever designed that belt tensioner system for Toyota should be shot. Worked at that scoundrel most of the day, lost a lot of blood! Decided there ain't no way I could do it alone with the tools I had. Called the Toyota dealer and got a price of $650 labor

Reckon I can bleed some more for that much money! Took a break from the car and glued and filleted the panels in for the port bait well. At least I know how to do that. Another bite out of the elephant.

Waited for a neighbor to come home who is a real mechanic, walked over there and got him and his tools. Between the 2 of us we managed to whip it. Thank the Lord for good neighbors

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Apr 03, 2014 9:54 pm

by justin_dwyer

I used to do a lot of work on cars, rebuilding motors, gearboxes, brakes, etc....now I just pay the money. Not worth the headache

Good on you for getting your knuckles greased up though Cracker

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Apr 05, 2014 1:37 pm

by ks8

Years ago I sprung for a generic Dodge *tensioner wrench*, 60 dollars. Worth every penny since. Now it takes about 5 seconds to slide a fresh serpentine belt under it. Near impossible without it. Like a flaring tool for a drain tube, nothin' like having the proper tool.

We know you've got all your boat building tools ready. And a Cracker car again.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Apr 05, 2014 8:23 pm

by Cracker Larry

Years ago I sprung for a generic Dodge *tensioner wrench*, 60 dollars. Worth every penny since.

Near impossible without it.

Yep! It would have been worth $60 just to use it once! That's what this job needed was a special wrench made just for it. No matter now, yesterday's pain. We whipped it and all is right with the chariot. And I've got my truck back

Building on. Taped and glassed in both insulated transom compartments. 9 pieces of tape and 4 pieces of cloth on each. Pre-cut all the glass of course. Did it all wet one wet, one compartment at a time.

A few more bites out of the elephant

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Apr 05, 2014 11:04 pm

by Rogerdog

Birth of a cooler -- I love it!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Apr 06, 2014 8:34 am

by Cracker Larry

Wildly stronger, keeps ice longer

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Apr 06, 2014 4:51 pm

by keysrat

majorgator wrote:
...did a youtube search and found 3 videos showing just how to do it.
You can find anything on YouTube!!! A friend of mine self-taught himself how to weld by watching a series of videos on there. Of course, I don't let him weld things for me

You Tube gets me in trouble.

You start seeing little stuff, and start thinking "I can do that". It is a slippery slope from there.
Vowed I'd quit looking after I found a video on changing ball joints on an F250 4X4. And then did that little job.
They ~never~ are as easy as it looks in the video, BTW.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Apr 06, 2014 5:49 pm

by Cracker Larry

This one sure wasn't

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Apr 08, 2014 10:20 pm

by Cracker Larry

Weather has made for slow going again for the last few days, getting better now though. Got the glass all trimmed up on the insulated lockers and gave them both a good sanding.

Then gave them another sealing coat of epoxy before I start to fair them tomorrow. They won't need much fairing.

Another bite out of the beast

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Apr 09, 2014 6:47 pm

by callyb

Larry,

I love to look at your work, it is absolutely top notch.

I was just talking about you today, actually the whole gang (all good stuff of course

). Were your ears ringing? I never did make it down to Charleston over the winter. We are hoping make it down there this year, if I'm hopeing I might actually be able to bring the Aquasport.

Please tell Mrs. Cracker I send my love.

Talk at ya later!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Apr 09, 2014 8:51 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Carl

Dori sends her love back asked when you are coming back down? We can eat some more rocks

And go fishing. Just let me know anytime you are heading this way. Gulfstream is having another huge expansion project

Or I can put you to work sanding boats

Worked long and hard today. Put a coat of Quick Fair in both lockers this morning, went out and ran some errands, came back and sanded them, gave them both another skim coat of QF and got the starboard locker sanded again. QF is great for a fast cure

Tomorrow I'll sand the other one, drill and fill for drain and overflow tubes, and hopefully start on the tinted epoxy.

Had a little extra QF mixed and used it in the motor well. No need to waste it, it all has to be faired.

Couple more bites

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Apr 09, 2014 9:33 pm

by Cracker Larry

Had a good friend who is involved with Formula II hydroplane racing come by. Wanted me to fix a plexiglass cockpit bubble on the race boat. It got ripped off doing a flip at 125 mp in a Savannah River race

I said not no, but hell no. My liability insurance only goes to 90 mph. I've got a couple of pictures of the flip will try to post tomorrow. I only thought I wasn't right, some people ain't wrapped too tight. Even looser than I am

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Apr 10, 2014 4:31 am

by Biscuit

Hey Larry,
Your project is coming along beautifully as usual sir.
You're eating away at that elephant one bite at a time. I heard from my 7 year old nephew the other day, there's another way to eat that elephant... With big bread. I guess that's how the fella talked you into building this latest boat, huh.

Well buddy I was doing a little looking around tonight and stumbled on the Reymond T-Top thread. Could you send me or pass my info along to him? I'm definitely in the market for a few accessories that he's a wiz at building.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Apr 10, 2014 7:52 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks, we're getting there

Raymond Martin
Martin Marine Design and Fabrication
Hardeeville, SC
info@martinmarinedesign.com
843-784-6110

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Apr 10, 2014 6:37 pm

by Biscuit

Thanks buddy

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Apr 10, 2014 10:00 pm

by Hope2float

Larry great looking as always. You amaze me with what you get done!
BUILD-ON!
Dave

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Apr 12, 2014 2:18 pm

by Cracker Larry

Still building on Dave, thanks! Been smearing fairing compound, sanding, fairing compound, sanding, and again

One round of fairing looks about like the next in pictures. I sure dislike sanding Quick Fair, or anything else inside of boxes. Spent a lot of time bent over with the dust flying

Got it mostly done though.

Holes drilled over sized for bait well drain tube and over flow, and cooler drain tube. In the process of filling and drilling.

3 rounds of fairing in the insulated wells, 2 rounds in the motor well and a coat of tinted epoxy on everything.

Letting that dry now and taking a thirst break, if it is mostly cured before dark I'm going to roll another coat of tinted epoxy on today.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Apr 13, 2014 9:53 pm

by Cracker Larry

This is hopefully the last coat of tinted epoxy in the rear lockers and motor well, or maybe not, we'll see

Trying to consolidate my gains. Bugs are bad, tree pollen is terrible, wind is blowing crap everywhere and I'm trying to get a finish coat in these lockers. As soon as I got it rolled smooth I covered it with paper and taped it down. Tomorrow will tell, either they will be smooth or I'll do it again

At least it's finally warm

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Apr 14, 2014 8:33 am

by topwater

Looking good Larry . Quick question for you , what size wire do you use to ground your fuel fill and fuel tank

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Apr 14, 2014 9:28 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks John. 12 ga. wire for that.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Apr 14, 2014 9:47 am

by topwater

Thanks Larry

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Apr 14, 2014 5:35 pm

by Cracker Larry

The cooler locker turned out nice. If I were building it for me it would be plenty good enough, but I'm not so we're going to do it one more time

This is why it takes me forever to build a boat, the road to perfection is a long one and not achievable. I need to learn when to let it rest, it's an affliction I have.

The bait well is almost as good. Ignore the oak flowers, they ain't stuck. One more coat will be going on it too.

The motor well sump didn't make the cut and got a little more Quick Fair. One more time

Got the routing figured out for the fuel pickup and bilge pump hoses, drilled for those and started sealing the holes. Routing the bilge hose out on top of the gas tank to keep from cluttering up the bait tank and cooler. The bilge hose is a tight fit below the seat top, but it fits.

Also drilled for the bait well water pickup and began the sealing process on it. Had to temporarily mount the transom lifting rings and pick the boat up with a come along just so I could stick a piece of tape over the bottom of the hole. Nothing is easy.

Drilled for the bilge pump outlet, which also has to go right through the seat cleat.

Had to cut out a section of the cleat to make enough room to get the nut on the back of the through hull fitting. The Rockwell multi-tool cuts it out clean and flush, barely even scratched the edges. 90 seconds and done. Don't even know how I would cut it otherwise, sure wouldn't be easy. Then switch attachments and sand it smooth. Can't tell ya how many times this tool has paid for itself.

I like shiny things

Taped off the new holes and began the sealing process. Then quit for happy hour

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Apr 15, 2014 6:22 pm

by wildbill

Cracker Larry wrote:the road to perfection is a long one and not achievable. I need to learn when to let it rest, it's an affliction I have.

It's a form of "A.D.D." anal deficit disorder, I'm told I suffer from the disease also.
Your not alone and we're here to help.

thanks' cracker larry

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Apr 16, 2014 10:10 am

by Cracker Larry

It's a form of "A.D.D." anal deficit disorder,

That's it

Dang crazy weather, rained sideways all day yesterday, 37 F this morning with a 30 mph wind. Brrrrrr..... Spent most of the rainy day making paper dolls, getting the design finalized for the flush rod holders in the frames. Wasted a lot of paper but think I've got it now

Had to get these worked out so I can build the frames and start the side decks.

We decided to make these out of 3/8 tinted acrylic. Raymond is going to get them CNC cut for us so they will all be perfect. We like perfect, it's that ADD thing

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Apr 16, 2014 5:08 pm

by Steven

May have to steal the fold down rod holder idea. I like.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Apr 16, 2014 5:41 pm

by Cracker Larry

This is all Peter's fault. Here ya go, patent pending

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Apr 16, 2014 5:49 pm

by Aripeka Angler

Cracker Larry wrote:This is all Peter's fault Here ya go..

Great invention

Maybe you could apply for a patent?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Apr 16, 2014 5:50 pm

by Cracker Larry

Just edited: Patent pending

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Apr 16, 2014 5:52 pm

by Aripeka Angler

Cracker Larry wrote:Just edited: Patent pending

I edited to add great idea

Great minds think alike

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Apr 16, 2014 10:06 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:This is all Peter's fault. Here ya go, patent pending

Hey don't forget about me if this makes you a multimillionaire

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Apr 16, 2014 10:18 pm

by Cracker Larry

I edited to add great idea

It is pretty cool, functional and certainly different. One of a kind. But we'd have to split the royalties 4 ways, it was a group effort

Peter posted the original idea, I liked it, my client liked it better and kicked it up a notch ( he tends to do that

) by suggesting recessing them flush into frame pockets. As usual, I said sure and here we are

We worked out the final design after a lot of picture drawing and cardboard cutting, then Raymond helped us out with some ideas and materials and the cutting. This ain't all my idea, I would have probably just cut notches in the wood frame and been done with it, but I signed up for the whole ride, whatever it takes

What makes it trickier is that each of the 3 sets of frames meets the hull sides at different angles, so the back straight edge that acts as a stop against the sides has to be cut a different angle for all 3 stations, 4 at each. It is not efficient to cut 16 of these out by hand, or to set up a CNC for 3 different angles so I allowed a little extra meat on the lower back edges that I can fine tune individually with a bench sander. This edge is completely hidden in the pocket so it doesn't have to be polished out like the exposed edges will be.

While the machine is set up and cutting we're going to have 4 extras cut for spares, in case I mess one up, or one gets broken in the future.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Apr 16, 2014 10:19 pm

by Cracker Larry

Hey don't forget about me if this makes you a multimillionaire

You clicked just ahead of me, I gave you first credit above ^

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Apr 17, 2014 11:17 am

by tech_support

super cool idea .....

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Apr 17, 2014 3:00 pm

by CarolinaFlare

Hi all,

Nice idea on the rod holders! Question; when they are folder up (not in use) how will they stay in the "locked & upright position"?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Apr 17, 2014 6:54 pm

by Cracker Larry

The plan is to have an axle bolt with adjustable tension and possibly nylon and/or felt washers on the inside of the cheeks, like a drag on a fishing reel, whatever it takes. It has to be tight enough to stay upright, but loose enough to flip it down with the thump catch. Stay tuned for the final solution, it's a work in progress

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Apr 17, 2014 7:22 pm

by Cracker Larry

Gave the frames a rest today. Had some decent weather and got the 3 transom lockers finished out to satisfaction, they are slick as an eel's pecker now. Another round of fairing, sanding and tinted epoxy finished these up like I wanted them. Fairing the outside of a hull is a lot easier than fairing the insides of boxes. Finally done with this. Another bite out the elephant

Motor well sump...

Bait well/ cooler...

Dedicated cooler...

Consolidated the gains again, still very windy and a lot of blowing trash...

The only thing left to do in here is route the trim tab lines and the bait tank inlet. Tomorrow it's supposed to storm again, looks like a good day for another trip to Lowes to re-supply. I should have bought Lowes stock

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Apr 18, 2014 2:37 am

by Joe H

Hey Larry,
Love the design of the rod holders, how strong is 3/8 tinted acrylic?

Man, you are going the extra mile on those boxes, looks great!

Joe H

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Apr 19, 2014 8:01 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Joe. Raymond says the acrylic is as strong or stronger than starboard, should be plenty strong enough.

Not much to report here but 4" of rain since yesterday and it's still raining

Hope everybody has a good Easter weekend

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Apr 19, 2014 5:15 pm

by Biscuit

So where do I send a check for the right to incorporate the flip out rod holders in my project?

Excellent idea and design to all who had a hand in this.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Apr 19, 2014 6:13 pm

by gk108

Raymond says the acrylic is as strong or stronger than starboard

And much easier on the eyes. A little buffing on the cut edges and they'll GLOW.

I had rain water flowing in my boat shed last night. I may have to convert it to a covered drydock.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Apr 19, 2014 11:03 pm

by Cracker Larry

So where do I send a check for the right to incorporate the flip out rod holders in my project?

Your favorite charity will be just fine

And much easier on the eyes. A little buffing on the cut edges and they'll GLOW

That why we chose it. Starboard is fine and functional, but it looks like a lump of plastic. I've mentioned that we like shiny stuff

Still raining here too, couple more inches. No Excuse will float off the trailer if it keeps coming down. The way our driveway and roads are looking we might need it to leave the house tomorrow.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Apr 21, 2014 10:50 pm

by Cracker Larry

Back to work after 3 days of bad weather and Easter.Water is finally receding. Felt mechanical today instead of woodwork and fiberglass. Finalized the trim tab hydraulic routing through the coolers but need one more trip to Lowes again to finish that. Dangit. You'll have to wait for pictures.

The tabs themselves are going to get either powder coated or painted black to match the jack plate. Masked them off for zincs and ready to go to the paint man. The stainless will be bead blasted, de-greased, primed, then coated.

Installed the fuel tank sending unit. Sounds easy but it comes in a "one-size fits-all" kit. 6 gallons or 200, you have to cut the slide bar and the float bar exactly to the right lengths to precisely fit the depth of the tank, where the bottom limit reads empty and the top reads full.

Got that whipped and applied the official, required by law sticker...

Lot's of other little things coming along too. Building on

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Apr 22, 2014 7:49 am

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:
The tabs themselves are going to get either powder coated or painted black to match the jack plate. Masked them off for zincs and ready to go to the paint man. The stainless will be bead blasted, de-greased, primed, then coated.

Wise man

I can hit myself in the head not doing so! I already have a lot of harsh growth on them.

I did a internet search what told me the ss only would discolor a little, conclusion don't believe everything written on the internet

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Apr 22, 2014 9:21 pm

by Cracker Larry

Peter, if they are going to stay in saltwater most of the time they need anti-fouling paint on them or you will be cleaning them every week. I'm sure your tropical waters are even worse than ours for growth. Nothing lasts 2 weeks around here in the summer without growing barnacles if it does not have anti-fouling paint. This boat will spend most of it's time on a trailer and most use will probably be in fresh water so the black is more for aesthetic purposes. The owner wants them black, so I will make it so

Time to install the bait tank pick up fitting. Ignore the yellow tint, that is just pollen. Springtime in the South

Had to lift the boat again to get this done...

I don't work under a hanging boat, old lessons learned hard. Block it up before working under it

Fitting installed with plenty of 5200. Clean up the squeeze out with mineral spirits, alcohol, or WD40. They all work. Always clean up excess 5200 when it's wet. Once it dries it's a different beast altogether

Other things moving along too. Had 2 days of good weather and made the most of them, but now it's storming again

I reckon the 6" of rain we got over the weekend wasn't enough

Things were getting a little dry around here.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Apr 23, 2014 8:03 pm

by Cracker Larry

Sea cock for bait tank installed..

After much fiddling and 3 trips to Lowe's I finally came up with a satisfactory solution to house the trim tab fittings and route the hydraulic lines through the cooler and bait well. I wanted them waterproof, protected from beer cans, ice, fish, whatever, but still accessible and easy to service. There has to be enough room inside for a 90 degree pipe fitting and a compression fitting on the hose. The connection through the motor well sides also has to be waterproof.

Installed. The holes were all pre-drilled and well sealed, then a liberal coating of 5200 and PVC glue put it together.

This will work just fine

The exit wound in the motor well, same other side...

This is the center console, flipped upside down and one coat of tinted epoxy on all the innards that I could reach.

A few more bites out of the elephant

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Apr 23, 2014 9:48 pm

by Rogerdog

Very nice!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Apr 23, 2014 10:12 pm

by Rogerdog

First four screws in the boat?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Apr 24, 2014 8:13 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Wayne. Yep, first screws of many

Taking the trim tabs to Raymond this morning for a trip to the powder coat man. Then back at it.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Apr 25, 2014 9:44 am

by Cracker Larry

Trim tabs are at the paint shop, rod holders are being cut at the CNC shop and 2 more coats of tinted epoxy applied inside the console.

I'm going to focus on the console for a few days, finish up the inside, glue on the bottom, round all the edges and start glassing it up.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Apr 25, 2014 11:00 am

by tech_support

A LOT of thought going into this boat, very nice

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Apr 25, 2014 7:49 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Joel. Yes there is. My client knows what he wants and communicates it to me in every detail. I think about how to make it happen, draw pictures and make cardboard and paper doll mockups, figure out what works, what doesn't and send them back to him. He modifies them and sends them back to me, I change it some more, if necessary we consult with experts and make more changes, then settle an outcome, build that part and move on to the next step. She's not leaving here until both of us are happy with it

It's a lot of fun and he is a pure pleasure to work with, but it is a slower and different process than building a boat for myself. One thing is certain, I'll be a smarter and better builder when when this one is finished

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Apr 25, 2014 8:54 pm

by Cracker Larry

Having trouble posting pictures here tonight, but still building on

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Apr 25, 2014 10:15 pm

by willg

Cracker Larry wrote:One thing is certain, I'll be a smarter and better builder when when this one is finished

One other thing is certain: the rest of us will be smarter and better builders as well. Thanks for sharing your work CL, it's been great to follow and learn from.

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Apr 26, 2014 7:05 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Will, we all learn something from each other

Console insides as complete as I can make it working from the bottom. Got the bottom panel fit, primed and ready to glue on. Console taped to keep glue drips off the tinted epoxy.

And glued on.

Today I can flip it and start working at it from the other side.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Apr 26, 2014 8:31 pm

by Cracker Larry

Today I got all the console edges, corners, angles and flats smoothed out, trimmed flush and rounded over. Used mostly hand tools, block plane, wood rasp, Surform tools and sanding. A router only works when the joining angles are 90 degrees, unless you build an angled jig. Too many angles for that. I like hand tools better anyway.

Radius of all edges except the bottom is about 1/2 -3/4".

Long day, a lot of wood shaping.

Finished that up....

Needed some direction so drilled the hole for the compass. Now I can tell which way I'm going

Was planning to cut out for cup holders too, to help get me there, but I didn't have the right size hole saw. Lowes loves me

Going to start cutting holes for all the other console instruments tomorrow.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Apr 26, 2014 8:49 pm

by Aripeka Angler

Nice looking console

I like the lines, shape and the soft corners.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Apr 27, 2014 5:15 am

by stickystuff

Excellent. I couldn't help but notice the drill. My Makita looked like that with all the epoxy stains on it. LOL They just keep on working.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Apr 27, 2014 8:11 am

by Rogerdog

So the skin of the console is fairly thin, and there will be various electrical items (bus bar, gauge bus, hydraulic steering unit, trim tab thingy, battery charger, battery selector and ACR, etc.) secured with screws inside the console box. After the internal effects of the radios and electronics sticking through into the console are clear, will there be one or more thicker wood mounting pads fitted for those items to be secured?

Console looks great.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Apr 27, 2014 10:47 am

by Cracker Larry

Appreciate it all.

will there be one or more thicker wood mounting pads fitted for those items to be secured?

Correct. There will be a lot of things getting mounted in here and we have to glue in one or more backing blocks to secure everything to. Can't have screw points sticking out

Like everything else, it will take some layout work to see how it all fits the best. Need to know all the clearances from the face instruments first. I was pondering this subject yesterday while I was sanding, and about reached the conclusion that we may need to dedicate one side panel or the other for mounting all that stuff and just have one side access hatch instead of 2

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Apr 27, 2014 11:20 am

by gk108

That's a pretty generous access hole in the front of the console. If it doesn't get a liner or anything, do you even need side access?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Apr 27, 2014 11:30 am

by Rogerdog

We might bridge part of the gap vertically down at the bottom of the inside of the top console where the pod is located. Leave space for the guts of the steering system and the throttle cables. With 30 inches of width should be able to get 18 inches of usable vertical space in two good panels. If that does not make sense I can do a little sketch.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Apr 27, 2014 11:44 am

by Rogerdog

The big front access panel will be good to service the back of the electronics. The side access panels will be handy for access to the storage from the helm. Hate to give that access up, but the throttle cables will make the access on the right less usable than the one on the left.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Apr 27, 2014 6:11 pm

by Cracker Larry

That's a pretty generous access hole in the front of the console. If it doesn't get a liner or anything, do you even need side access?

Yes it allows good access to everything inside, but you can't reach into it without leaving the helm or disturbing the person sitting on the seat in front of it. With a side access hatch the helmsman can reach it and nobody has to move. We were planning on one on each side, might still be

The console is only 30" wide though, easy to reach across. One side hatch would accomplish that and leave the other side free for mounting stuff.

We might bridge part of the gap vertically down at the bottom of the inside of the top console where the pod is located. Leave space for the guts of the steering system and the throttle cables. With 30 inches of width should be able to get 18 inches of usable vertical space in two good panels.

I follow you. Good idea . We can make it work, it's just going to have to evolve. Might not even need to do that. Some things have to be where they have to be, others where you want them, and the rest wherever they will fit

Whooeee, I read over every installation manual again, collected all the mounting templates, and did a lot more pondering

Then had at it... steering and throttle box first. Position template, drill mounting holes..

Then I tape off the cut lines on the template, use a hole saw to cut corner radius',s and a jig saw for the straight cuts.

That fits just right

Moving on to the combo plotter/fishfinder..

Very nice

And these multi-funtion gauges..these are cool

Then did some more pondering over the rest of it until my brain hurt, walked away and made a drink

Tomorrow's another day. Still got a VHF radio, stereo, 2 switch panels, key switch assy., trim tab controller and ATS, some 12V outlets and I'm sure something else I'm forgetting

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Apr 27, 2014 8:06 pm

by Rogerdog

That all looks great.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Apr 28, 2014 2:52 pm

by Steven

I like the multi function displays. What brand are they?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Apr 28, 2014 7:30 pm

by Cracker Larry

Yamaha. Plug and play

I think they have more functions than 6 analog gauges

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Apr 28, 2014 8:20 pm

by Steven

Is there dedicated communication bus from the Engine?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Apr 28, 2014 9:04 pm

by Cracker Larry

Is there dedicated communication bus from the Engine?

Yes everything from speed, rpm, hours, fuel level, fuel burn, water temp and other things that I can't remember right now. High tech stuff, very cool

That reminds me that we have a full set of analog Sahara series Teleflex gauges that we won't be using and are available for sale. Let me know if anyone is interested and wants to see pictures.

Worn out and had plenty of practice with hole saws and jig saws today. Got it all worked out to satisfaction. Mine anyway

Holy console

I'll be the first to break in the new cup holders and declare it cuba libre time

The only thing left to fit that I know of are some 12V power outlets. Then ready to fill all the screw holes, prime it with epoxy and start glassing it up.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Apr 28, 2014 9:08 pm

by peter-curacao

That looks great captain!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Apr 28, 2014 9:31 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Peter! I had a visit from the FedEx truck today and it wasn't boat parts, it was 2 very nice Lucky Shot Fishing Team polo shirts from Curacao

. Thanks my friend, I'll do my best to keep epoxy and blood off of them

Awesome. Proud to be a member of the Lucky Shot team

Then USPS came and brought more boat parts. An LED lighting system that looks like it may rival a nightclub, or ever Peter's boat

Haven't had time to study it much yet but it has several under-gunwale strip lights, 2 sets of bait well lights, cooler lights, front and rear cockpit lights, locker lights and I don't know what all. Sure hope it doesn't have a big console control switch, running out of real estate on this console.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Apr 28, 2014 9:43 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:Thanks Peter! I had a visit from the FedEx truck today and it wasn't boat parts, it was 2 very nice Lucky Shot Fishing Team polo shirts from Curacao . Thanks my friend, I'll do my best to keep epoxy and blood off of them Awesome. Proud to be a member of the Lucky Shot team

Your very welcome, hope they fit,

was the letter still in the box?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Apr 28, 2014 9:46 pm

by Cracker Larry

was the letter still in the box?

Yes

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Apr 28, 2014 9:51 pm

by Rogerdog

I love it.

You have a great eye for the layout. I was thinking yesterday that the multi-function gauges could be closer together, but all put together and with the stereo, they make sort of a face that I really like.

Very cool.

You had talked about a spacer under the throttle handle. Do you still think it needs it?

Does the space directly above the pod make sense as a place for two of the 12Vs? The thing charging could sit in the crook between the pod and the console.

Up at the very top on one side or the other might make sense for a 12V plug, especially for a plug-in hand spot light, and the thing charging could sit in one of the cup holders. Probably would not drill there until after Raymond is through.

Inside the console is the other place where a couple of 12Vs make sense.

The shiny bits are cool -- even if they're mostly black plastic and glass.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Apr 28, 2014 9:56 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:
was the letter still in the box?
Yes

Good

I 'recently" installed 4 of those around my hard top, those are great love them! a LOT of light at very little power draw, very decently build also

http://www.westmarine.com/deck-lights/o ... --12712675

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Apr 28, 2014 10:40 pm

by Cracker Larry

I was thinking yesterday that the multi-function gauges could be closer together,

I thought that too, right after I drilled the holes

I left enough space here to add another gauge or something between them, never know what the brown truck is bringing tomorrow

Thinking now that there is plenty of room for 2- 12V power outlets right between them and it will balance them out.

Does the space directly above the pod make sense as a place for two of the 12Vs?

Yes, I think that will work too.

You had talked about a spacer under the throttle handle. Do you still think it needs it?

No, it's fine like it is. It's a little higher than I thought it would be. Reverse won't be an issue.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Apr 28, 2014 11:26 pm

by robbiro

Larry, sorry for a short hi-jack. the weather front headed your way is rife with tornadic activity!! We had three touchdowns in our county right before dark today, Have not heard of any deaths, and not a lot of injuries, but a big box store took a hit along with a Honda dealer, etc. Keep a weather eye pealed!!

Robbie

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Apr 28, 2014 11:36 pm

by Cracker Larry

I've been watching that, Robbie. Hell of a storm moving through west of us, hoping that the worst is over before it gets here. Sure am sorry for the people who are catching those tornadoes

That is ugly

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Apr 29, 2014 7:01 am

by peter-curacao

Sorry double post

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Apr 29, 2014 7:16 am

by peter-curacao

peter-curacao wrote:
Cracker Larry wrote:
I was thinking yesterday that the multi-function gauges could be closer together,
I thought that too, right after I drilled the holes
Sorry I have to say I also think he's right, can't you fill them with the plugs and put them closer together? line them op with the "fm/am radio"? underneath? It also gives you a very nice space to put more accessory's like the 12 volt lighter sockets, between gps/ff unit and radio + gauges

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Apr 29, 2014 8:30 am

by robbiro

We spent the better part of an hour in the storm shelter. Had a hit in Brandon 8 miles West and then crossed I-20 at exit 68 where I get off to go home (4 miles South). Some damage along the roadway and to a gas station here. Car dealership, HD and others along with a trailer park in Brandon. No fatalities as last I had heard.

Robbie

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Apr 29, 2014 8:48 am

by Noles309

Wow, that think looks like an airplane cockpit! Impressive

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Apr 29, 2014 9:28 am

by Cracker Larry

Sorry I have to say I also think he's right, can't you fill them with the plugs and put them closer together?

Peter, hush

I could, but I'm not. They don't bother me that much and I can't spend the rest of my life building this boat. If that's the worse miscalculation I make, life will be good

We spent the better part of an hour in the storm shelter. Had a hit in Brandon 8 miles West and then crossed I-20 at exit 68 where I get off to go home (4 miles South).

Dang Robbie, glad you're OK

They are supposed to get here this evening, I better batten down the hatches.

Today I'm going to work out the power outlets, cut out for the side access hatches and get a prime coat of epoxy on it to seal it up, before Robbie's storms get here. We've had 8 dry, warm days and this wood is dry as a popcorn poot, don't want any moisture on it now.

Our rod holder brackets will be in tomorrow from the CNC shop, then back to work on the frames. Still moving forward

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Apr 29, 2014 6:21 pm

by Cracker Larry

Does the space directly above the pod make sense as a place for two of the 12Vs? The thing charging could sit in the crook between the pod and the console.

I thought that might work, but it won't. Too tight, looks like crap there.

After...wait, changing the batteries in my new wireless keyboard... so after exploring all the possibilities, they work best right here, and that's where they are. Perfect

Moving on to the side access hatches. We have plenty of room to mount everything inside, still using both hatches.

These hatches have a 2 1/4" corner radius. I use the hole saw to mark it and drill it.

Then the jig saw to connect the holes.

Drill the mounting holes over size, sand the edges and call them done.

Hand sanded the fuzz from all the cut lines, cleaned everything up real good and rolled a coat of epoxy on all the raw wood before the rain gets here.

A few more bites out the elephant. I won't mind a rain day just to rest, got 9 straight days of work done.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Apr 30, 2014 8:03 am

by topwater

Looking good Larry . After drilling and cutting all those holes and hatches i'll bet its 10LBs lighter now

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Apr 30, 2014 8:08 am

by jorgepease

That is a very nice console!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Apr 30, 2014 12:16 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks John and Jorge. I'm very pleased with it.

Been some terrible weather across the south, lot of people dead, lots of homes destroyed, lots of flooding, 22 inches of rain in the FL panhandle

Hope all our friends are OK. I know GK108s area got hit hard. You OK Gary? No boat building today, it's raining sideways. Glad I got that epoxy on yesterday.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Apr 30, 2014 5:07 pm

by pee wee

Cracker, your console design is more thought out and logical than theirs, but about as gadget packed:

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Apr 30, 2014 8:02 pm

by gk108

You OK Gary?

Another 4" of rain, but it's running off pretty good. Flash floods everywhere for a while, but it's slacked off for now.
I've had enough April showers. Bring on the Mayflowers, or any other boat.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Apr 30, 2014 8:26 pm

by Cracker Larry

Glad to hear it GK, so far we've had no real problems here either, just some strong thunderstorms. Seems to be about over now.

Cracker, your console design is more thought out and logical than theirs, but about as gadget packed:

Pee Wee, please don't show pictures of redundant controls, or I might have to figure out how to install them too

Speaking of gadgets, our custom rod holder brackets are finished. Picking them up in the morning.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 02, 2014 3:21 pm

by gstanfield

Nice work as always

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 02, 2014 3:29 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks George, glad to hear from you. Funny, I was wondering this morning if you are OK, haven't heard from you in a long while. Was planning on calling you.

Still raining here, 3 days straight, not much happening.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 02, 2014 4:08 pm

by gstanfield

I'm doing good ever since my scare on thanksgiving morning. I don't remember if I told you or not, but thanksgiving morning I had a mini-stroke and a heart attack simultaneously

Kinda scary stuff for being only 34 years old at the time.

Still, been working a lot of finishing the inside of my shop to make it more comfortable to work in and then I've been doing some mechanical work and rebuilding an old Honda Goldwing. We've been hit extra hard with snow this year so I haven't done much fun stuff other than taking my boy out for his very first fishing trip a few weeks ago

The shop should be finished in another month or so, the plan is to finally start a relatively large boat build this winter. We'll see if things go as planned....

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 02, 2014 4:12 pm

by Steven

Glad you're well George. I'll never understand the term Mini-Stroke. Ain't noting mini about any of 'em if you ask me.

That's a great pic. Snack, drink and a fishing pole. Doesn't get much better than that.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 02, 2014 4:14 pm

by gstanfield

I guess it's mini in that it didn't kill me?? I don't understand either, just replaying the info I paid $64,000 to get

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 02, 2014 6:23 pm

by Cracker Larry

Yes, you told me about that. It's why I was worried about you. I hear and know. Just spent $120K on Dori's cancer surgeries and treatments since November. Not done yet with that either..thank you Obama

I haven't done much fun stuff other than taking my boy out for his very first fishing trip a few weeks ago

That's as good as it gets. He sure looks focused. I remember taking my son fishing at that age. He's 25 now and he still remembers it too

Yall got a serious shortage of trees around there

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 03, 2014 10:33 am

by antoniekruger

Hey Larry, just checking in. The build looks great.

Are those rod holders done by CNC? I need to get myself one of those(CNC machine).
Keep it up - how is this GP21....now that is just mean from Mr J and Shine....sneaking that one in. I see one of those in your future....he, he, he.
Winter is crawling in, nothing dramatic, just a slow cold coming on. This gives me a few minutes or so more time on a pot of epoxy.
Cheers, mate.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 03, 2014 11:08 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks for checking in Antoinie. Yes, they were CNC cut on a machine that probably cost more than a year salary. This guy is local, friend of a friend sort of thing. He has a heck of an operation going with a 50,000 square foot shop. CNC routers, laser cutters, water jet cutters.... he makes parts for NASA, DOD, Gulfstream Aerospace and others. See all those stainless brackets behind the rod holder? He cut those for Raymond with a CNC water jet.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 03, 2014 11:53 am

by Aripeka Angler

Cracker Larry wrote:

Nice

I'm telling ya, you could sell that rig to a plastic boat company

I wonder if one of those stretchy thingies would fit somehow on it to hold the rod in place?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 03, 2014 12:36 pm

by antoniekruger

gstanfield wrote:I'm doing good ever since my scare on thanksgiving morning. I don't remember if I told you or not, but thanksgiving morning I had a mini-stroke and a heart attack simultaneously Kinda scary stuff for being only 34 years old at the time.

Still, been working a lot of finishing the inside of my shop to make it more comfortable to work in and then I've been doing some mechanical work and rebuilding an old Honda Goldwing. We've been hit extra hard with snow this year so I haven't done much fun stuff other than taking my boy out for his very first fishing trip a few weeks ago

The shop should be finished in another month or so, the plan is to finally start a relatively large boat build this winter. We'll see if things go as planned....

Hi, this is an awesome pic - look closely at the environment. There is no green vegetation, not even close to the waterline and the 2 very clear whitish chemical lines on the beach. Is there a mining operation close?
Just an observation, cool pic though.
Antonie

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 03, 2014 9:38 pm

by gstanfield

No mining, just various water levels. This pond is right beside the river and so the water levels drop in the winter then raise really high during snowmelt and drop halfway between during the summer when the rive is running at irrigation levels. It gives us three distinct water levels to deal with around here.

Here's the google earth view of the pond right along side the North Platte River.

https://www.google.com/maps/@42.8556316 ... a=!3m1!1e3

And Yes Larry, we have a severe shortage of trees around here.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 03, 2014 9:57 pm

by Cracker Larry

Yep, a very severe shortage of trees

How can you go from the Ebenezer swamps in GA to there? Cold and no trees both

Reckon it makes being a LEO easier, perps got nothing to hide behind out there

I'm used to my freshwater looking like this..

And I'd have to move that little guy up the bank a few more feet, for gators. Gators are sneaky, big, and go for the little guys, got to watch out for kids and dogs around the water edges around here.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 03, 2014 11:47 pm

by gstanfield

We have more trees than gators that's for sure

Funny story, when I was signing up to go to college in WY the recruiter told me there was a hot girl behind every tree. Boy was I excited to get out here.....until I found there were no trees

We do have some trees here and there. He's a shot from a nice winter bike ride on one of the warm(ish) days. Even after a dozen years in WY it's still hard to wrap my head around riding my bike through a creek with snow on the banks

Still, it was nice to get out and play even if it did mean riding in the snow and making dang sure not to fall down in the water

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun May 04, 2014 10:39 am

by bondo

"Be still my heart" not even broken in yet and probably still stock? And I'll be honest that whole gator thing scares the crap out of me.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun May 04, 2014 10:15 pm

by Cracker Larry

And I'll be honest that whole gator thing scares the crap out of me.

They do help to keep the tourist and pussies out of my swamps

A few months ago one tried to snatch my friend Raymond off a stump he was sitting on while fishing. He is 6-3. It snuck up from underwater and almost got him. Said when it opened it's mouth he could see the bottom of it's tail, and that's when he learned that he had the powers of vertical levitation and walking on air, after which he hurt for 2 weeks. 14' gators are common here and will eat anything smaller than they are. They eat real good themselves though, so it works both ways. Some days you get the bear, some days the bear gets you

Fresh water or salt doesn't matter much to them. This one cruised by an oyster bar we were redfishing a few weeks ago.

This picture really sucks, I took it with an old cell phone. It's a small cypress pond on my property that dried up a few years ago during a 10 year drought. Gators had to go to the river. Drought is over now though, they're back

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon May 05, 2014 10:30 am

by antoniekruger

Gees Larry, those are big. I had a similar experience - went fly-fishing for tigerfish in a town Komati on the border with Mozambique. Stopped at the one end of a low water bridge and walked down the rocks to the water. I tied up my Lefty's deceiver that I tied the previous night and started working the pond. It was getting dark and the tigers were nowhere to be found and then bang...the sht popped out of the water in front of me. I lost my rod and Lefty and also discovered new talents in rock climbing and uttering word mom did not teach me. To add insult to injury, on my way to my bakkie(utility) a hippo snorted at me on the upstream side of the bridge - could not have been more that 5m away. I still miss that rod.
My wife still doubles over when I tell the story reminding me that the river is called the Crocodile river. I need to sort discipline at home

BTW, I flipped my boat today, alone

. Will post pics later. Having a tall one now and stare at my handywork.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon May 05, 2014 8:42 pm

by Cracker Larry

Saw that boat flip, very well done

Saturday was a hole filling day, 90 screw and bolt holes in this console, each one drilled oversize, backed with masking tape and filled with thickened epoxy. Tedious, but it separates doing it right from just getting it done.

Some days you get the bear, some days the bear gets you

Yesterday was one of those days the bear almost won. Got up early with high expectations for some spring yard work and general house maintenance. Had plans to cut up some fallen trees and limbs, mow the grass for the first time this spring, clean the pool, pressure wash the truck, boat and some of the house. To make a long story short, thanks to ethanol gas and my lackadaisical lack of maintenance with yard equipment that hasn't been used since last October, I spent most of the day pulling on starter cords until my hands bled, and cleaning carburetors. Jeez. Began with the chain saw, after an hour of work on it and pulling that dam cord 200 times, I put it up. No trees getting cut here today. Mrs Cracker volunteered to cut the grass if I got the mower running. It had a dead battery, clogged carb, bad fuel, and needed a few hours work too. She lost patience and said she would clean the pool while I cussed the mower.Then she tells me the pool vacuum isn't working. Great. Went and unclogged the hose, cleaned the strainers, backwash the filter, got her going again. Back to the mower, took off the carb and did what I could with it, soaked the parts in cleaner for a while and pulled out the pressure washer. That SOB wouldn't run either, drained the fuel and it didn't even resemble gas. Couldn't even light it with a match. Spent an hour on it and pulled it 200 times without success. Parked it by the chain saw to go to the shop.

Back to the mower, put it back together and it actually ran! A little fine tuning got it running smooth, so I proudly informed Mrs Cracker that she was good to mow grass, at which point she informed me that she was way past done waiting on my incredible mechanical skills. So I mowed the grass myself just to have something to show for my 12 hour day. Grass looks real good too!! Pool ain't bad either

Made a drink, kicked back on the porch and took a nap. Didn't even dare to try to crank the boat!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon May 05, 2014 8:57 pm

by Cracker Larry

Today went better, did not even try to crank a combustion engine

Pulled the tape from all the screw holes, sanded it inside and out, cleaned up the glue edges with a dremel tool.

Then cut and dry fit the tape for all the corner joints. It took over 60 feet of tape, lots of edges on this console. Ran out of FG tape and had to cut a few pieces from cloth. No problem, but going to need some more for the side frames and decks.

After all pieces cut out and labeled, started glassing it up. Got it about half done before I ran out of daylight and energy. Light is terrible for this picture.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 06, 2014 12:29 am

by antoniekruger

That's a beaut - captain James T Kirk would be envious.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 06, 2014 7:52 am

by topwater

That a serious console

Great work as usual .

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 06, 2014 10:14 am

by Noles309

Console looks great. That thing looks massive,I think I may need a stool to stand on to see over it with me being slightly vertically challenged

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 06, 2014 10:29 am

by peter-curacao

Noles309 wrote:Console looks great. That thing looks massive,I think I may need a stool to stand on to see over it with me being slightly vertically challenged

Ask him to ask Raymond to make a aluminum flip down bar (pipe) to bold on you leaning post, I have one to and in times it's a big help, unfortunately I don't have a pic of it but I think your getting what I'm saying.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 08, 2014 7:14 am

by Cracker Larry

Console looks great. That thing looks massive,I

Trust me, after working on glassing it for the last 3 days I've come to the same conclusion. I've built boats with less glass than this thing is taking. Not finished yet either!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 08, 2014 1:05 pm

by Joe H

Jezzz Larry, quite the catch up! Man you been busy on all fronts! I have to go and take a nap after reading all this.

Some days you get the bear, some days the bear gets you

And some days you just stay the F out of the woods! Gators..........I like to taste one of those mothers someday.

Everything is looking great Larry.

Joe & Jan

(I had to give her an update on all your antics!)

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 08, 2014 2:36 pm

by icelikkilinc

Larry, for the console, would it be easier to glass and then cut the holes?
or even maybe glass the ply before cutting, than assemble and then just use the tape to tack together?
going through that after all the cuts, even the thought makes me hurt..

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 08, 2014 10:47 pm

by Cracker Larry

Larry, for the console, would it be easier to glass and then cut the holes?
or even maybe glass the ply before cutting, than assemble and then just use the tape to tack together?

Ilker, yes it would be easier, but it would not be the best way and it would waste a lot of material glassing areas that would just get cut out and thrown away. I also want much of the cloth to wrap the sides and overlap the tape. The easiest way is seldom best. No problem to trim the FG out of the holes, my Kershaw pocketknife gets 90% of it and a couple of Dremel tool bits will get the rest. It's only minor pain compared to others

Taping is finished and trimmed, and it's all sanded and ready for full glass covering. There are so many surfaces, joints, corners and angles on this console that I have to flip it on one side and tape those seams, flip it again to tape more, flip again to tape more, 4 flips total just to tape all the edges, then 4 flips to sand all the taped edges, then we will cover all of that with cloth, another 4 flips and sanding I reckon. Then fair it. That will take 4 flips too. Nothing but a thing

Beats playing golf, but it ain't as fun as catching fish

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 08, 2014 10:56 pm

by Cracker Larry

And some days you just stay the F out of the woods! Gators...

Joe, I live and work here in the swamp so it's hard to stay out, we just learn how to live with it, no big deal

I'll take my gators over your frozen lakes any day.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 09, 2014 8:24 am

by antoniekruger

Cracker Larry wrote: Nothing but a thing Beats playing golf, but it ain't as fun as catching fish

"

Amen, brother

@Joe - you'll see some of CL's pics - a drink, a drill and what looks like a Glock - don't sneak up - even if you are a Gator.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 09, 2014 9:05 am

by Cracker Larry

a drink, a drill and what looks like a Glock

Springfield Armory, a tool I always keep handy

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 09, 2014 3:21 pm

by Cracker Larry

Still glassing away, got another couple of bites out the baby elephant

Thought we had enough cloth left to almost finish the boat, turns out that we barely have enough to finish the baby beast.

Doubled the glass at the rear of the console, it will get a lot of foot traffic and wear.

I will fair the face before I cut out the glass pieces over the holes. This will keep the fairing compound from slopping and splattering all over the inside.

Real hot this week, mid 90s every day takes a little getting used to. It went from winter to summer without spring. Knocked off early, it's my birthday

Son is coming over to cook me dinner

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 09, 2014 4:14 pm

by Cracker Larry

Larry, for the console, would it be easier to glass and then cut the holes?
or even maybe glass the ply before cutting, than assemble and then just use the tape to tack together?

Ilker, you can see in the above pictures why I don't do that. This way I can wrap a run of cloth over as many surfaces as possible, in this case 4, then overlap the side edges. It makes it much stronger plus much easier to fair.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 09, 2014 4:25 pm

by tech_support

Knocked off early, it's my birthday Son is coming over to cook me dinner

happy birthday Larry

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 09, 2014 4:29 pm

by garym

Hope he's a good cook.
Happy B-day

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 09, 2014 4:33 pm

by wegcagle

Happy Birthday Old Man

Hope you have a good night and enjoy the family time

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 09, 2014 5:14 pm

by Walkers Run

Happy birthday to Larry and my lovely bride of 35 years. Our sons are taking us out for diner

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 09, 2014 8:27 pm

by MarkOrge

Happy Birthday CL from the cold north !

Actually it's not bad now, hitting 71F this weekend so time to hit the pool heater. I have been edging it up each day, pool should be at 84F or so by tomorrow afternoon. I love to hear kids laugh (and scream when I do a cannonball)

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 09, 2014 9:07 pm

by peter-curacao

Happy Birthday Larry, we will drink one to that

Peter & Gloria

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 09, 2014 10:02 pm

by Dougster

I think you stated a Murphy's Law addendum I've never heard Larry: "The easiest way is seldom best". Would that it wasn't so, but I think it is

Says Happy Birthday Dougster

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 09, 2014 10:18 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks all. 61 years young and feeling them all. It ain't the age, it's the mileage that's catching up.

Hope he's a good cook.

Oh yeah

He is a professional chef, and pretty dang good at it too. Been doing it since he was real young. He heads up a catering crew for fancy 300 dinner weddings, actors and film crews shooting movies in Savannah where he feeds a couple hundred hollywood assholes 3 meals a day, and lots of other stuff. He was feeding that crew where the girl got run over by a train while filming on the train tracks. It was all over the news a couple of months back. He cooked her breakfast right before she went stupid

Yeah, he's a good cook, who thinks he is a writer

Cooking pays his bills though, writing don't.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 09, 2014 10:24 pm

by Cracker Larry

think you stated a Murphy's Law addendum I've never heard Larry: "The easiest way is seldom best". Would that it wasn't so, but I think it is

Says Happy Birthday Dougster

Thanks Doug. It only took me about 30 years to learn that, but I think it is true of most things we run across in life

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 09, 2014 11:38 pm

by gstanfield

Happy birthday pard

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 10, 2014 6:45 am

by antoniekruger

Happy birthday, Larry - hope you have a blessed and fruitful year.
Antonie

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 10, 2014 11:58 am

by TRC886

Happy belated birthday, Captain

May you have many more of them!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 10, 2014 2:47 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thank yall much

Just another day of sanding and glassing. Another bite out the baby elephant.

Getting this console finished will be a milestone. 2 more flips to finish glassing it, then start sanding and fairing. I see dust in my future next week

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 10, 2014 5:52 pm

by icelikkilinc

Happy birthday captain.
Excellent job with the console, this was what I tried to explain but lost for words..

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun May 11, 2014 12:07 am

by ks8

Happy birthday!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun May 11, 2014 7:22 am

by topwater

Happy belated birthday Larry

I am not to far behind you but i dont think i'll catch up

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun May 11, 2014 10:21 am

by Aripeka Angler

I'm a day late and a dollar short but happy birthday anyhow

The neighbors celebrated his 50th last night. They told me to tell you hello and happy birthday. Man they can throw a serious party, there must have been 75 people over there

The boat is looking great. Has the owner settled on a color yet?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun May 11, 2014 10:40 am

by Cracker Larry

Tell Chuck and Karen hello and happy birthday. We had a big BD party last night too, my BD, Dori's BD, brother and nephew BD all on the same weekend. Plus Mother's Day

I suspect our family party was not as wild as Chuck's

Has the owner settled on a color yet?

White, the color boats should be

Back to sanding and glassing today. Plan to be finished with the glass tomorrow and then let the fairing begin.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun May 11, 2014 4:26 pm

by Rogerdog

Larry is VERY tolerant of owner input, but he is very convincing that boats are white! With all of his experience, thee is no real discussion. I love white boats!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun May 11, 2014 7:12 pm

by blueflood

Off-white

Marc

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun May 11, 2014 8:20 pm

by ks8

Now wait a minute! Boats can be any color at all....

.... as long as its white.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun May 11, 2014 9:36 pm

by robbiro

Like several others, I am tardy with the Birthday Wishes. Looks like you have about two years and a day on me. May your day have been blessed and your year to come be a great one.

Keep on Buildin'

Robbie

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon May 12, 2014 8:43 am

by Cracker Larry

Another sanding, another flip, another glass prep. Almost completely out of glass, having to piece things together with scraps,

And another side done...

Got to place another order with Joel today, low on all supplies. Running low on rollers too. This is the weekend roller bone yard

One more side to go...are yall getting tired of looking at this console yet? I am

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon May 12, 2014 12:07 pm

by tobolamr

You may be getting tired of looking at that console, but a whole lot of us are grateful you're building and documenting it this well!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon May 12, 2014 3:34 pm

by Cracker Larry

OK then, if you insist

Trimmed up the edges from yesterdays glassing and sanded that side, ready for fairing. Then stood it up and sanded everything that I haven't so far, got about 80% ready for fairing compound.

Then flipped it again so the last large face that needs glass is horizontal. It's a lot easier sanding and glassing horizontal if you have a choice

Sanded and cleaned that, and dry fit the cloth.

And wet it out.

Let that cure a while, doesn't take long at 90F, then tilted her back on her feet and finished the last piece. Dog helps, when he isn't swimming or hunting.

Console is now completely glassed and 80% sanded. I swear I could glass a GF12 easier than this thing

Fairing will begin tomorrow, plan to have it finished and ready for primer by the end of the week. We'll see how that works out.

More materials are on the way

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon May 12, 2014 3:56 pm

by garym

Thats some boat.
A 30 footers worth of goodies in an 18' hull.

One of my neighbors asked what I'm doing next and I told them the queen mary with a straight face.
They looked at me bug eyed.

I know your a ways off but I'm wondering whats next for you?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon May 12, 2014 4:04 pm

by Cracker Larry

Rest

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 13, 2014 7:09 am

by blueflood

Hi CL and all...not to highjack the thread but I need your feedback on tinted epoxy if you have some time.

I know you have used it before in bait wells etc but for use in more visible spaces (i.e. everything inside

) does the finish look at least respectable ? I wanted to avoid painting the internals, instead using tinted (off-white) epoxy over properly prepared substrate. I do not want a mirror flat smooth finish either but more of an industrial look which a short nap roller will give. Even ultra gloss I don't care too much about. This is very subjective but all in all without having seen it, does it look OK ? Note that everything will be faired however, as if painting the conventional way. The outside is where the energy will be spent with (hopefully) Shine's recently trialed paint system or Pettit paint. From what I recall, the mix is tricky to get right for opaqeness and multiple coats are required ? (using S3 high build primer throughout). Roller used ?...1/8" foam ? I wonder if it will yellow with age or breakdown with UV ?

If anyone went this route, please chime in.

Marc

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 13, 2014 8:16 am

by Cracker Larry

It really gives a great looking finish, very glossy and slick. I would be concerned about it yellowing from UV in exposed areas, not sure how that would hold up in the sun. Better check with Joel about that. I use the same white foam rollers that I use for epoxy and primer. It takes about 3 coats to get a uniform finish.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 13, 2014 10:21 am

by tech_support

Shine's recently trialed paint system or Pettit paint. From what I recall, the mix is tricky to get right for opaqeness and multiple coats are required ? (using S3 high build primer throughout). Roller used ?...1/8" foam ? I wonder if it will yellow with age or breakdown with UV ?

It not tricky, and i have good pictures to show what it looks like. How about starting a thread on this topic and we can address your questions.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 13, 2014 5:58 pm

by Cracker Larry

No, not tricky at all. Very easy, easier than paint.

Dusty Cracker again today. Sanded up all of yesterdays glass work and touched up some other spots I'd missed. I do all the initial sanding and glass trimming with 40 grit. Get 'er dun

But it leaves it a little fuzzy. So I switched to 80 grit and sanded the whole thing again. Flip, sand, flip, sand, flip, sand, repeat..

Drew a line around the base 3" up from the bottom and taped it off. Don't want any fairing compound here, this will get taped to the sole and I just want raw smooth glass for the attachment.

Cleaned it all good with water and a towel and let it dry, then put on the first coat of fairing. This was a very loose mix of epoxy and blended filler. Just loose enough to pour out of the cup. I like to start thin to fill pinholes and weave. Spread thin and forced into the cloth with a plastic spreader and roller The next coat will be thicker.

Work clean, it eliminates a lot of sanding.

We ain't trying to ice a cake, just filling the pinholes and weave at this stage. Tomorrow it will get sanded again, and another fill coat. Maybe more blended filler, may go to Quick Fair, will have to see how it looks after sanding.

Getting tired of sanding, but the end is in sight

Only a few more rounds to go with the baby elephant, then we can get back to her momma

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 14, 2014 9:01 pm

by Cracker Larry

Whew

Started the day here...

A few hours later got to here...

Cleaned it all again after sanding, switched to Quick Fair and covered it all again, and ended the day here...

Doesn't look much different than it did 7 hours previous, but it is. Tomorrow we get to do it again

Weather permitting. Storms are closing in now. Then again, and that should do it.

Edit: Forgot to say that Joel and Bateau have it together. I ordered more materials on Monday morning and got them today, less than 48 hours after placing the order

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 15, 2014 7:17 pm

by selever

Wow! It's getting there! I just wanted to say that I've been secretly watching this thread for the past few months now and enjoy watching the progress. Keep up the great work!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 15, 2014 10:21 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks for watching, no need to keep it secret

Keeping on building here, best as we know how.

It rained hard all day but we tucked up under the shed and sanded it again first thing this morning, then another coat of Quick Fair all around. Let it cure about 5 hours and it was ready to sand again. Nice thing about QF it dries quick. My arm and chest muscles were not ready to sand it twice in one day but we did it anyway and got her done just before dark. Smooth as a baby's butt

I'm about done too.

Tomorrow I'll trim out the glass filler pieces over the holes, if my arms still work. You can see how the glass has kept all the fairing slop from getting into the insides so far. Then a seal coat of epoxy and it will be ready to install in the boat.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 15, 2014 10:24 pm

by peter-curacao

You're getting there Larry, looks great as always

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 15, 2014 10:45 pm

by Cracker Larry

Gracious mi amigo

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 15, 2014 11:22 pm

by Rogerdog

Very cool!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 16, 2014 1:18 pm

by ks8

sa-moooooooooooth.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 16, 2014 4:02 pm

by wegcagle

Looks awesome from here CL. Gotta love the weather we're having this weekend

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 16, 2014 5:00 pm

by Hope2float

Larry besides the great work you are doing on that console. Would you happen to have the outboard motor mounting measurements or template. I lost all of my paper work for the engine. Need spreads for holes and where to start from. It is a yamaha 150 hp 25" shaft. The transom is 25" on the nut from top to keel. You are moving at a blistering pace as usual and younger folks should admire your work ethic.
BUILD_ON!
Dave

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 16, 2014 7:01 pm

by Cracker Larry

You are moving at a blistering pace as usual

It feels more like a snail's pace to me. Back in the early fall my client told me that if it was finished before the Boca Grande meet he wanted me to take it down there. At the time I laughed and said it should be finished before then, but I ain't laughing now. Going to miss that date for sure

Would you happen to have the outboard motor mounting measurements or template.

Yes. Let me see if I can find them on this new computer.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 16, 2014 7:23 pm

by Cracker Larry

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 16, 2014 8:00 pm

by Cracker Larry

Still building on. Got all the glass in the holes trimmed out and sanded smooth. In the light of day, without rain, I saw a few spots that needed a little more filling, so I did some more fairing. Wax on, wax off..

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 16, 2014 8:58 pm

by Hope2float

Big thanks to you for the measurements and quick reply.
Dave

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 16, 2014 9:15 pm

by Cracker Larry

Had 2 major interruptions today so I didn't get as far as expected. One of my best friends and next door neighbor (1/4 mile is next door here) was hospitalized, and he ain't doing good at all. Big cancer tumor in his lung. He is a farmer and I'm feeding his chickens and pigs for him. I don't do tractors very well, I can sure screw up a corn field, so getting somebody else to do that.

Another friend of mine is in the septic tank business and also into go fast boats, and has a couple that need some work. My septic tank needed pumping, nothing was wrong with it, just it's never been done and I figured it was time. I've been on his "schedule" for months and his crew finally showed up this morning to do it. Dang that was a nasty job

Had to dig about a foot of dirt out the size of a sheet of plywood to get to the concrete lid, then lift a slab of concrete that weighs 800 pounds. I've seen and smelled some really bad stuff in my time, but when the lid came off that tank it took everything I had not to throw up.

It took 4 hours to pump it all out and clean it. Ugly I tell ya. A sight you wish you could un-see and a smell I wish I could un-smell. Sanding boats is an easy living compared to being a septic tank cleaner. It will take days just to get the smell out my nose hairs.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 16, 2014 9:45 pm

by Cracker Larry

Gotta love the weather we're having this weekend

Beautiful

Beats yesterday for sure!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 17, 2014 6:01 pm

by wegcagle

Sorry to hear about your buddy Larry. We'll keep him in our thoughts/prayers.

Great work on the console. I completely underestimated what a b!%@* they are. Nothing's easy, from building it, fairing it, and painting it. Too many dang corners.

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 17, 2014 7:36 pm

by Cracker Larry

Too many dang corners.

For sure, and I hand sand them all at this stage. Don't want to bust through the glass or dig divots with the power sander anywhere now

Today we sanded yesterdays application of final, I hope, maybe, last round of fairing on the baby elephant, and sanded all the upper insides too. Then rolled a seal coat of epoxy on it all. The shiny wet epoxy showed me where the fairing wasn't quite perfect. It never is

If it were mine it would be good nuff, but it ain't so I might hit it one more time.

Also figured out where we needed backing blocks for T-top supports, and screws for buss bars, breakers,trim tab pump, trim tab gyro and everything else going inside here. Then cut all the backing blocks, sanded them and primed them with epoxy. Will glue them in tomorrow.

Moving forward

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 17, 2014 7:41 pm

by Cracker Larry

Sorry to hear about your buddy Larry. We'll keep him in our thoughts/prayers.

Thanks Will. He's not doing good at all, been in a coma since yesterday morning. He's tough as an oak tree though, so keeping the faith and feeding the pigs.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 17, 2014 8:17 pm

by Rogerdog

If its good enough for you, it's good enough!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun May 18, 2014 6:58 am

by Cracker Larry

After sanding on it for 8 straight days, it's easy to say it's good enough

Best to walk away for a few days then look at it again. Will still have to do some fairing after I glass it to the sole. Plan to get that done tomorrow.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon May 19, 2014 9:09 pm

by Cracker Larry

I got all 6 of those backing plates glued in. Pictures aren't great. Clamps, weights, hot glue, and whatever it takes to hold it in place

Made and primed some more backing blocks and cleats and glued them in too

Found out that we had to mount a 2 bank onboard charger, along with everything else, and it's pretty stout! Made the backing for that out of 2 laminated thicknesses of 1/2 ply, primed, glued it up and glued it in. The 2 cleats are for battery hold down bracket under the seat. Pre-drilled and filled for eye bolts. Primed and glued those in

Cut the cleats for securing the steering pod, primed them, glued them in. Rounded the outside edges and corners of the pod on the router table with a 3/8 round over bit, sanded, then primed and glued it on to the console and cleats.

Then primed and glued in the pod face.

And did some other stuff. Was hoping to get it in the boat today, but no help was available to lift it so that didn't happen. But still moving forward

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon May 19, 2014 9:15 pm

by ks8

That console will soon be a happy beast!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon May 19, 2014 9:30 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote: Then primed and glued in the pod face.

And did some other stuff

Larry console looks great, but the steering pod I don't know :doh:I think I'm for sure knowing what you are aiming for with it, but if you ask my honest opinion it doesn't come close to it

For sure the person what made that pod put a lot of work in it! Still to me it looks like a cut up cigar box, if I visit Gloria's country and buy some quality cigars I get a box with it what looks just like that, just have to cut it to fit the console. You know I have troubles saying this, still I thought I had to tell you.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon May 19, 2014 10:10 pm

by Cracker Larry

Peter, why do you want to lick all the red off of my candy? Beauty is in the eye of the beer holder. What's wrong with a nice cigar box anyway? This box would hold a LOT of cigars. I figure about 500+

I'll build whatever I'm asked to build within reason, as best as I can. I've got to make at least 2 of us happy

If I've got to please you too, please mail me a check, you have my address

Just kidding my friend, your input is always welcome and appreciated

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon May 19, 2014 10:45 pm

by peter-curacao

Sorry I meant well!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon May 19, 2014 10:48 pm

by Cracker Larry

I know you did

One thing is for sure, it's set in epoxy now and I really don't want to cut it out

You'll like it better when it's finished.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon May 19, 2014 10:53 pm

by Cracker Larry

So will I

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon May 19, 2014 11:07 pm

by Rogerdog

It's probably hard to envision if you haven't been thinking in my head, but when the console is moved out of the grass and into the boat and everything is painted out white, that pod is really going to stand out nicely. Plus it will tie in with the cypress sole and the gunwale trim. I like it Larry, and keep that grinder away! I do think there are some fine rums down in the Caribbean there that are boxed up in dove tailed boxes like cigars. If you can Tom Sawyer Peter into sending you a check or a rum so good it needs a box, all the better!

Not everyone likes everyone else's ideas, but if you take the care and patience to build a boat like Peter's C25, any comment you offer are helpful.

By the way, I think you hit the radius just right on the edges of the pod.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon May 19, 2014 11:22 pm

by Cracker Larry

It's going to look real good when it's done

As long as 2 of us think so, I'm real happy

I tried to match the radius of the pod edges to the radius of the console edges so all would flow.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon May 19, 2014 11:39 pm

by PastorBob

I like wood so I think the pod is great! The mahogany console pod is all the rage now in custom / semi custom boats... With other wood trim features it is going to look great!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon May 19, 2014 11:43 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Bob. The pod is actually made from old growth cypress, 100+ years old, so will be the trim pieces, along with some ipe

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 20, 2014 7:06 am

by garym

Thats why Baskin Robbins has 31 different flavors of ice cream.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 20, 2014 9:02 am

by peter-curacao

Don't get me wrong I do like the idea a lot, I do like bright wood on a boat, just think it's to boxy, if it was me I would have made it more like in the pics bellow, then again that's probably the bucket what's always empty at Baskin Robbins

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 20, 2014 9:05 am

by Cracker Larry

That's sharp for sure

But I have mentioned that I need to finish the boat sometime in this lifetime

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 20, 2014 9:48 am

by Aripeka Angler

Cracker Larry wrote: But I have mentioned that I need to finish the boat sometime in this lifetime

Yeah and there's a fish out there that needs a ride to shore

Looking good, build on...

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 20, 2014 10:07 am

by Cracker Larry

I've been pondering on that and can't figure how in the world that is built

What do they do, start with a solid mahogany log and a chain saw, and whittle it down

That one is above my pay grade.

Pigs and chickens all fed up next door. I'm really scared I'm going to lose my friend. They put him under anesthesia last Friday to do a lung biopsy and he never woke up from it. He's been on total life support ever since and they are now talking about turning it off

Back to eating the elephant..

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 20, 2014 11:30 am

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:I've been pondering on that and can't figure how in the world that is built What do they do, start with a solid mahogany log and a chain saw, and whittle it down That one is above my pay grade.

One solid piece would be the coolest, but it can be put together from several pieces, here's a guy who did a real decent job building one

http://www.microskiff.com/cgi-bin/yabb2 ... 693701/387

Cracker Larry wrote:Pigs and chickens all fed up next door. I'm really scared I'm going to lose my friend. They put him under anesthesia last Friday to do a lung biopsy and he never woke up from it. He's been on total life support ever since and they are now talking about turning it off

I'm sorry to hear that

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 20, 2014 12:04 pm

by Cracker Larry

Great news

My neighbor woke up and is talking coherently

Dang doctors almost killed him just doing a test, then wrote him off and were about to pull his plugs. And people wonder why I don't trust doctors.

I tried to tell them he's tough and has 3 problems. 1. He's never been in a hospital in his life, not even when he was born. Just the experience is enough to send him out. 2. He's never taken a drug stronger than an aspirin, his body isn't used to it, and 3. He drinks at least 24 beers a day, his body is very used to that and he is now 288 beers behind schedule. If they'd just pour some beer in the ornery old goat he'd probably be fine. I really didn't want to feed pigs forever

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 20, 2014 7:45 pm

by Cracker Larry

Well, I just had to fair it again. I knew I would. It's a sickness. But it's at least 3% better than it was the last time around

The next time I sand this baby elephant it will have 2 coats of primer on it. I'm done

If it ain't smooth enough now, my client is welcome to come and sand on it some more

Also drilled the holes for steering head and mounting bolts in the pod, and re-drilled all screw and bolt holes in the face with a 1/8" bit so I can find them again after the primer goes on.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 20, 2014 7:50 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:
Also drilled the holes for steering head and mounting bolts in the pod, and re-drilled all screw and bolt holes in the face with a 1/8" bit so I can find them again after the primer goes on.

Are you gonna put the steering pump on top of that pod?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 20, 2014 9:03 pm

by Cracker Larry

Yes. Drilled and fit.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 20, 2014 9:05 pm

by peter-curacao

Huh?

okay

This can't be stuff you come up with! I know you know better

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 20, 2014 9:18 pm

by Cracker Larry

The only things left to do here is drill a couple of drain holes, drill for chase tubes and coat the upper insides with tinted epoxy.Console is ready to install as soon as I can get some help to lift it into the boat.

Then we'll move back to the frames and decks. They are the only things left to build. Then finish and rigging. I can see light at the end of the tunnel now. If the train doesn't run over me we might yet finish this one

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 20, 2014 9:24 pm

by Cracker Larry

Are you gonna put the steering pump on top of that pod?

Yes

Huh? okay

Where else would I put it, it is a steering pod

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 20, 2014 9:47 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:
Where else would I put it, it is a steering pod

Underneath it!!,I'm probably wrong again, but I always thought that was the purpose of a pod like that, hide the ugly stuff with something nice on the eyes!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 20, 2014 9:53 pm

by Cracker Larry

No way or provision to mount it underneath. Helm pump has to go on top, unless I mount the wheel underneath. Don't think that will work out.

I'll post a picture of the helm pump in place tomorrow.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 20, 2014 10:18 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:No way or provision to mount it underneath. Helm pump has to go on top, unless I mount the wheel underneath. Don't think that will work out.

I'll post a picture of the helm pump in place tomorrow.

Not sure I understand, look at my helm, didn't wanna go all the way putting in a oil filling system

but as you can see mine is semi sunken in, just have to make a pod similar like yours and all is hidden!

IMHO that way it serves a function, now it's a ordinary cigar box glued on a not so ordinary console, (a console given a loth of thought, work and love) it just doesn't make sense to me

Not sure if your client reads this, If so client listen and talk to Larry! he's a crack knowing what he's doing!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 21, 2014 4:12 am

by Rogerdog

Peter makes a good point about the helm pump. It may or may not look good at the end of the day, but I think there is a pretty simple solution that would leave the steering wheel just above the surface of the pod with a bright finished round or square aluminum plate beneath it and the helm pump inside the pod.

Bay Star does not make a rear mount helm pump (Sea Star does, but it is $$$ and may not be compatible with the rest of the Bay Star system), but they do have a back plate kit – HA5418 which allows the Bay Star pump to be recessed. I would not use the back plate kit, but their diagram shows how to create a simple back mounting system whereby a Raymond fabricated aluminum trim plate (round or square) would show on the surface of the pod under the steering wheel, and almost the entire pump would be inside the pod.

Once the helm is installed, if it does not look good, Raymond can make two plates -- one surface mounted on the pod and the other a back plate below the helm – connected through matching bolt holes with four long carriage screws. The helm pump hangs below the surface plate and is attached to the back plate with its screws and it is sandwiched tight to the pod surface. We will have to see whether proper installation of the Bay Star system requires the back of the steering wheel to come into contact with the top of the helm pump or just with the shaft. If it only needs to contact the shaft, is there enough length on the shaft to run the thickness of the plate across the pump with the hole only large enough for the shaft (i.e., is there ¼” of excess shaft length to play with). If the top of the pump needs to contact the bottom of the steering wheel, that will work fine too because the pump has a slightly conical shape, and the center hole diameter can be sized to leave only as much exposed as is desired.

Fabricating the two plates from ¼” aluminum stock with a cnc machine is right in Raymond’s wheel house, and because there is space inside the cigar box and the cutout into the console is generous, there is no need to change or slow down anything you currently have set up.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 21, 2014 7:50 am

by Cracker Larry

Yall are wearing me out

Wish this was mentioned before I glued this thing together and drilled the hole. Keep in mind that the penetration for the wheel would have to be waterproof or we will have water getting on our electrical connections in the console, and the pump needs to be accessible for service and adding oil.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 21, 2014 9:15 am

by Rogerdog

Proceed just the way you have planned.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 21, 2014 9:30 am

by Cracker Larry

Seriously, I like the idea of it being recessed. Going to ponder over that today, don't see any serious problem except the oil fill access. I wonder if they make some kind of extension for a remote fill plug?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 21, 2014 9:39 am

by Aripeka Angler

I wonder if they make some kind of extension for a remote fill plug?

I think that's what my CC has on the console. I will look for a pic.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 21, 2014 9:48 am

by Rogerdog

There is a kit -- HA6450. They make it for the sport tilt model, but it looks like the same pump and fill.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 21, 2014 10:10 am

by Cracker Larry

I aim to please. If you want it recessed then recessed it will be

It would look cleaner for sure. After I feed the pigs I'll pull out that pump and see what kind of clearances we have.

If the neighbor doesn't get better soon we're going to have a barbeque

Peter, I was a little slow catching on to your thoughts, but now I smell what you were stepping in and like the idea. Just wish I had planned for it earlier, but think I can make it work.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 21, 2014 10:53 am

by Rogerdog

Seriously, I would not change what you are currently doing -- surface mount. The hole you drilled in the pod should be big enough for the pump to come in from behind to mate up with a plate (from Raymond) on the surface of the pod.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 21, 2014 12:07 pm

by Cracker Larry

The hole you drilled in the pod should be big enough for the pump to come in from behind to mate up with a plate (from Raymond) on the surface of the pod.

No, the hole I drilled is 3". To get it to mount flush inside we need a hole at least 5 1/2" to allow room for a 90% fitting on the oil fill. The fill fitting is close to the wheel side. If it was on the rear of the pump it would be simpler. It will need a metal plate about 6" in diameter to cover the hole. The pod face is thick, about 1 1/2", and the steering shaft only has 1/2" of extra room. We can make this work if you can live with a 6" metal faceplate. I've got the mounting and water drainage issues figured out.

Pics to follow that explain it better, waiting on photobucket and droid to play nice together.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 21, 2014 12:20 pm

by bigtalljv

looks are one thing but I would make sure the wheel ends up at a comfortable height for the user. I'm very tall so recessing the the pump on my stock console wasn't an option. The pump is a pretty clean feature, I think it would look just fine surface mounted, it's pretty invisible under the wheel even though it's a big black cylinder.

isn't there a saying about building a horse by committee? I know these suggestions are given with all our best intentions.

Jason

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 21, 2014 12:24 pm

by Cracker Larry

isn't there a saying about building a horse by committee?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 21, 2014 4:20 pm

by Cracker Larry

Dang, farming is hard work! Expensive too, don't know how they make a living. Ran out of animal feed next door and had to go buy some more. Last time I bought corn it was $10 per 100. Today it was $26 per hundred. By the time I had unloaded 2,000 pounds and got it stored I needed a nap!

No, the mounting hole I drilled is 3". To get it to mount flush inside we need a hole at least 5 1/2" to allow room for a 90% fitting on the oil fill. The fill fitting is close to the wheel side. If it was on the rear of the pump it would be simpler. It will need a metal plate about 6" in diameter to cover the hole. The pod face is thick, about 1 1/2", and the steering shaft only has 1/2" of extra room. We can make this work if you can live with a 6" metal faceplate. I've got the mounting and water drainage issues figured out.

Pics to follow that explain it better, waiting on photobucket and droid to play nice together.

OK, here's what we've got...

This is the head mounted as first intended. Looks OK.

This shows the thickness of the head, versus the thickness of the pod. Almost a perfect match.

This shows the shaft length as compared to the pod face thickness. The disk is the cut out from the hole saw.

And this shows the pod face thickness next to the pump. You can see where the oil fill fitting is and why we need clearance for it.

I think I like it recessed. It will look cleaner, plus it will allow you to stand 5" closer to the console, which is 5" of extra cockpit clearance between the wheel and leaning post, if that makes sense. In other words we could mount the leaning post 5" further forward and gain that space behind it.

I got the saws sharpened boss, how do you want it?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 21, 2014 6:00 pm

by Cracker Larry

I ran our flush mounting plan past Raymond and got the Martin Marine seal of approval on it

He will build a polished stainless faceplate and weld mounting studs on the back, so no fasteners are visible from the front side. I can flush the pump face to the pod face with nothing protruding except the shaft. Raymond also has a 90 degree fitting for the oil fill.

Dang Peter, you always cause me a lot of extra work and pondering, but you do have some good ideas

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 21, 2014 8:19 pm

by peter-curacao

ROFL

haha sorry Larry just ventilate what I think is right! sorry for my late reply btw

Can I be brief? yes I think I can

This looks to mho like sh..t http://i1244.photobucket.com/albums/gg5 ... f415f8.jpg jeezus you can water-ski behind that boat and still be able to handle the helm
To fit, sink the pump in the console, maybe find some ideas in my thread

btw I sent you an email

Capt. Pete they call me know

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 21, 2014 9:17 pm

by Cracker Larry

Can I be brief? yes I think I can This looks to mho like sh..t http://i1244.photobucket.com/albums/gg5 ... f415f8.jpg jeezus you can water-ski behind that boat and still be able to handle the helm

Don't beat around the bush, tell me what you really think

Going to sink the pump flush Peter, great idea and no real issues to do it. Sometimes building by committee is a good thing

Gracia mi amigo, and speak up anytime you feel like it

This is a better and nicer solution. I don't care if it's more work, I want it to be as nice as possible.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 21, 2014 10:03 pm

by Cracker Larry

Didn't get your email Peter, please resend to my aol address.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 22, 2014 6:11 pm

by peter-curacao

Sorry meant an SMS , damn rum arch archh (pirate grunt)

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 22, 2014 6:23 pm

by Cracker Larry

All right, I got the flush mounting of the helm pump all worked out and the interior mounting bracket almost finished. Had to glue up 3 different size pieces of plywood to get the spacing like it needs to be for a flush fit with the pod. Waiting on that glue to dry now. Won't take long, it's 95 degrees.

Enlarged the face hole from 3" to 4 1/2 with the jigsaw. I don't use a hole saw that large in a hand drill, it can break your arm!

Pics tomorrow when I get it put together, but I think Rogerdog, Peter and I will all be real happy with it

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 23, 2014 3:49 pm

by Cracker Larry

Here ya go, Peter. Nothing protruding except the shaft. Much nicer than our original plan

With a trim ring over the hole it's really going to look sharp.

Having to work at it backwards was much more complicated than working it forwards. It's easier to get where you're going if you know where you're going before you leave. I had to remove and install that heavy pump up in the hole a half dozen times before I got the shim spacing just right, then spent 3 hours on my head inside the console with a Dremel tool, cutting out a slot for the oil fill fitting. The results are worth the trouble though.

Time to mount this console in the boat. The boss is coming by this evening and he don't know it yet, but he's going to help

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 23, 2014 3:56 pm

by Noles309

Looks awesome!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 23, 2014 4:27 pm

by ks8

Well worth it!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 24, 2014 7:59 am

by topwater

Nice work Larry .

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 24, 2014 10:42 am

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:

There you go!! give the man a cigar!

Well done Larry looks great

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 24, 2014 3:36 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks all

This was a really good idea, Peter. Thanks for your input. I loaded her up to show the boss the whole package, think everybody is happy with this

Then we unloaded it, packed up all the goodies, and put the console in the boat. The baby elephant is now forever joined with it's mother

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 24, 2014 3:42 pm

by Knottybuoyz

Very nice work Larry. Functional and cool!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 24, 2014 4:28 pm

by wegcagle

Looks great CL....I gotta ask 16 SWITCHES?

Holy Mackrel that's a lot of toys

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 24, 2014 4:29 pm

by deuce_454

I love the build and your work is inspirational.. But I don't understand the function of the box on the console... Why isn't the steering pump recessed into the console itself?? I mean why ad the box?? Especially with the top mounted engine controls??

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 24, 2014 5:50 pm

by pee wee

That looks great, Larry! Looks well thought out and organized.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 24, 2014 7:18 pm

by Cracker Larry

.I gotta ask 16 SWITCHES? Holy Mackrel that's a lot of toys

Yep ,we got 2 more boxes of toys to install today. Trust me, this one has a lot of toys. I think we might use all 16

I mean why ad the box??

Because the man writing the checks wants the box. Write me a big enough check and I''ll cut it off

It's going to take a large one though, with some big numbers in front and at least 3 zeros on the end

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 24, 2014 8:35 pm

by Cracker Larry

It might look a little tall now, but when the T-top goes on the proportions will look right. Raymond will blend it all together.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 24, 2014 9:40 pm

by Cracker Larry

Speaking of the T-top, in for a penny, in for a pound

I think the top will have a zip out section in the front and a seat built onto the top of the top, with an incorporated ladder for access. You can zip out the panel, climb on top and control the boat with the remote for the Ipilot while you hunt fish. Bad to the bone

Only one thing wrong with this boat, it''s not mine.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 24, 2014 10:54 pm

by Rogerdog

That console is terrific. The ergonomics are fabulous -- everything at fingertips. Very nice!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun May 25, 2014 8:57 am

by wegcagle

Just awesome Larry

That boat is a beast for sure.

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun May 25, 2014 2:52 pm

by ks8

Group-think does still work! Just needs to be the right group, and the right think.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun May 25, 2014 7:52 pm

by Cracker Larry

Just have to know how to separate the wheat from the chaff, and keep an open mind to ideas. Working together we can all build better boats. None of us know it all, but between us all we come pretty close

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun May 25, 2014 8:37 pm

by Cracker Larry

We sanded down the mating surfaces of console and deck this morning..

Cleaned it real good with alcohol..

Mixed 12 ounces of epoxy with about 4 cups of wood flour, spread it out even with a notched spreader..

Then got Mrs. Cracker to help me set it in place. The 2 are mated forever more. Weighted her down a little, cleaned up the glue joints on the edges and let her be. Will fillet and tape after this cures.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun May 25, 2014 9:39 pm

by AtTheBrink

I think you have built 2 boats while I have been building mine.... And several repairs and a rebuild! This one is looking great! You are getting close, I'm sure your client is very Happy!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon May 26, 2014 12:50 am

by antoniekruger

Yeah, I'll second that - looking very good, mate.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 27, 2014 12:03 am

by Knots

Hey Larry,

What size motor? I guess it is hydrallic steering...? If so what kind and ballpark weight?

Looking good!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 27, 2014 7:22 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks all. Plugging away at it.

What size motor? I guess it is hydrallic steering...?

F90 Yamaha, Baystar hydraulic steering. Jack plate, trim tabs and most other goodies known to modern man

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 27, 2014 5:39 pm

by Cracker Larry

Console filleted and taped in, wet on wet. Dry fit the tape first. When taping angles close to 90 degrees I first fold the dry tape exactly in half lengthwise and make a crease down the middle with my finger. It will follow a tighter radius and be much less prone to air bubbles, plus it keeps the center of the tape in the apex of the joint.

Then remove it, fillet it, let it set a half hour, brush it out smooth with epoxy and lay the tape back down and wet it out. About 9' of tape, 9 ounces of epoxy.

Just got in a new order of 12 oz biax tape and it is much nicer than the last couple of rolls. It's wider, denser and much easier to work with than the last few shipments have been, wets out easier too

Wherever you are getting this Joel, keep it, good stuff

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue May 27, 2014 6:13 pm

by Knottybuoyz

Very very nice Larry. I can't believe how 'tidy' your work is. I'm so freakin' sloppy I spend a lot of time sanding away my messes. I think maybe this explains it:

"He who works with his hands is a laborer. He who works with his hands and his head is a craftsman. He who works with his hands and his head and his heart is an artist." - St. Francis of Assis (1181-1226)

You my friend are a artist!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 28, 2014 1:09 am

by antoniekruger

Amen to St Francis - Very neat work. It is a pleasure to watch you work and the time you find to share it with us.
Thanks, buddy.

The round holes in the front seat of the console - are these for vents or speakers?
Single tape mount??? Oh yes, you glued the whole bottom down.

A stupid question....I have not seen many of these, what are trim tabs for?

Cheers,
Antonie

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 28, 2014 9:03 am

by Cracker Larry

Nothing to it but practice. Working clean saves a LOT of sanding and Lord knows there is enough of that to do already.

The round holes in the front seat of the console - are these for vents or speakers?

Vents. 2 batteries going in there.

Single tape mount??? Oh yes, you glued the whole bottom down.

Yes, I figured that with 10 square feet of glue contact, one layer of tape would be plenty. I wanted to keep the bulk down because we will be installing cypress decking over the sole.

.I have not seen many of these, what are trim tabs for?

To level the boat under different weight and sea conditions, See http://www.bennetttrimtabs.com/

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 28, 2014 8:21 pm

by BarraMan

Looking good Larry!

You have probably posted it before - but what thickness ply did you use for your console?

Cheers

Lee

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 28, 2014 8:59 pm

by peter-curacao

As always Larry great work!

But this I really don't understand! sorry

You build a cc with a bottom you glue on top of an other bottom to shave off some milligrams of biax tape? and think it's stronger this way? Do I miss something? bottom is the sole or extra weight glued to the sole? I'm confused!

Cracker Larry wrote: Yes, I figured that with 10 square feet of glue contact, one layer of tape would be plenty. I wanted to keep the bulk down because we will be installing cypress decking over the sole.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed May 28, 2014 10:54 pm

by ks8

self-edit.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 29, 2014 7:16 am

by Cracker Larry

but what thickness ply did you use for your console?

3/8

Do I miss something? bottom is the sole or extra weight glued to the sole? I'm confused!

Let me try to explain this one more time. The existing sole is actually a sub-sole. It's only 1/4" ply. We will be installing caulked cypress planks over the top of this, which will raise the sole another 1/4". Without putting a bottom on the console, the interior bottom of console would be below the final level of the sole and water couldn't drain out of it. It would be like a shallow swimming pool in there. This way I can make all structural connections between console and sub sole, then hide the taped edges with the planks and everything will be flush.

The only other option would have been to install the planks first, then put the console on top, but the bright finished cypress would look like crap covered in 12 ounce tape.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 29, 2014 7:28 am

by Cracker Larry

Yesterday I sanded the taping and got it ready for fairing, then rolled a coat of tinted epoxy in the upper sections of the console.

Taped up the cigar box, didn't want to get any tinted epoxy splatters on it!

Today, more tinted epoxy, more fairing...

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 29, 2014 9:10 am

by AtTheBrink

Bee-U-T-Full! Nice work! That cypress deck is going to be the bee's knees!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 29, 2014 2:18 pm

by jorgepease

somebody is going to be very happy driving that boat )) nice work!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 29, 2014 5:27 pm

by Cracker Larry

somebody is going to be very happy driving that boat ))

Maybe I'll even get to drive it once

Got another coat of tinted epoxy on all the innards, after sanding it and cleaning it once again. The green reflection is coming from trees, it's not green.

One more coat on everything will finish this up, and that's about all the tinting pigment I have left, this works out well

And a round of fairing done around the base.

I intend to have the console finished inside and primer on outside before the weekend is over. Ready to paint and start installing gadgets. Got a lot of gadgets going in here

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 29, 2014 7:16 pm

by Rogerdog

Beautiful!

Drive it any time you want.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 29, 2014 8:35 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:Let me try to explain this one more time.

Sorry that I missed the first explanation

Cracker Larry wrote:The existing sole is actually a sub-sole. It's only 1/4" ply. We will be installing caulked cypress planks over the top of this, which will raise the sole another 1/4".

I follow

Cracker Larry wrote:Without putting a bottom on the console, the interior bottom of console would be below the final level of the sole and water couldn't drain out of it.

whoops now I don't follow

don't you wanna have a drain in your console anyways? regardless of the sole height differences?

Cracker Larry wrote:The only other option would have been to install the planks first, then put the console on top, but the bright finished cypress would look like crap covered in 12 ounce tape.

on the inside who's seeing that? and if that's of any concern trim the seems with some nice (hard) wood or some other material (SS?)

Probably I'm missing something, and I'm not trying to questioning you, just like to understand you guys are doing

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 29, 2014 8:40 pm

by Cracker Larry

Probably I'm missing something,

You must be, mi amigo, and I'm too tired to try to explain it again, but a lot of thought went into this. Just hang with us and see how it comes together

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu May 29, 2014 8:53 pm

by peter-curacao

Okay I will hang in follow and sshhh

, but a cc without drainage?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 30, 2014 7:48 am

by AtTheBrink

Larry, how long do you let your paint cure before you start putting all the cool cool stuff on the boat?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 30, 2014 7:55 am

by AtTheBrink

peter-curacao wrote:Okay I will hang in follow and sshhh , but a cc without drainage?

I think the any water that gets under the console will drain out the back and out thru the floor drains.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 30, 2014 8:11 am

by Cracker Larry

I think the any water that gets under the console will drain out the back and out thru the floor drains.

Exactly

Larry, how long do you let your paint cure before you start putting all the cool cool stuff on the boat?

Depends on the paint, but 2 or 3 days at least.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 30, 2014 1:08 pm

by antoniekruger

Hi Larry, that's looking good - I must admit, I'm envious of the gadget collection. Once fitted, it will look even better.

What is the cigar box for???...Just kidding, don't shoot.

Build on
Antonie

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 30, 2014 1:44 pm

by Cracker Larry

BANG

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 30, 2014 1:45 pm

by bigtalljv

careful or Larry will bust out the secret hidden hinges and you'll find that it IS a cigar box. Got to have something after you catch the big one.

Jason

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 30, 2014 1:47 pm

by ks8

spoiler

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri May 30, 2014 7:57 pm

by Cracker Larry

Ugh. That's about all there is say from this dusty Cracker. Sanded yesterday's fairing compound, cleaned and applied another coat, cured for 5 hours at 90F and sanded it again. Looks pretty dang good. While waiting for that to cure, put the final coat of tinted epoxy inside the console compartments. Used every bit of pigment we had and ran out of compartments at just the right time

I'm going to get the console primed this weekend, then I'm going fishing for a few days

No Excuse is over due for a trip and she has been serviced, greased, charged, ran, and pressure washed bow to stern and top to bottom. All systems checked and ready for sea. We're going back to Daufuskie Island next week

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 31, 2014 4:06 pm

by antoniekruger

Tight lines, bud - bring back picks.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat May 31, 2014 7:18 pm

by Cracker Larry

Got a visit from the local sheriff to inspect our trailer and make sure it wasn't stolen, so we could get a GA tag. I used my Springfield XD as a paperweight to hold down all the forms that he needed to see

He spent 2 minutes checking out the trailer and 1 1/2 hours looking at my boats. Then he wanted to shoot my XD, so we did. He liked my pistol range in the front yard too

No Excuse is now a volunteer rescue boat for the county sheriffs dept. They had a missing boater this morning on the Savannah River, since dark last night, and it took them 5 hours to get a DNR boat to help. The county can't afford their own boat and the state DNR is spread thin and has big budget cuts. I live ten minutes from the landing and can have my boat in the water in 20 minutes, told them if anyone was in trouble on the water and they don't have a boat to help, call me, so they signed me up

Also did some boat work, extended the chase tubes from the sole into the upper console. That took longer than I thought it would. Everything does

Extending centers of 2" holes can be a chore. Got that done, holes drilled and sealed with 2 coats of epoxy, sanded console again with 120 grit, filled the space around the chase tubes in the console base level with thickened epoxy, hope it doesn't go volcanic like last time. Don't think it will, heavy rains moved in and cooled things off, we'll see tomorrow. No pictures of any of that today, quit because of sideways rain.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 01, 2014 3:13 pm

by wildbill

Don't look now but The Man just rolled up on us!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 01, 2014 3:26 pm

by AtTheBrink

That is really cool of you to volunteer your boat and time for Search and Rescue Larry. I see the Sheriff was driving a pretty nice car. Looks like a new Dodge Charger. They can a afford new cars but can't squeeze 10-15K out of the budget for a boat to rescue the fine residents of the county? Gobermint drives me insane!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 01, 2014 6:33 pm

by Cracker Larry

I see the Sheriff was driving a pretty nice car. Looks like a new Dodge Charger. They can a afford new cars but can't squeeze 10-15K out of the budget for a boat to rescue the fine residents of the county? G

That's exactly what I was thinking. It is bad to the bone

He gave me a tour and I couldn't believe all the stuff it has on it

Had to cost 40-50K.

I made my goal for the week, I like it when I end the week getting done everything that I planned on Monday

Doesn't happen very often. Almost got 2 coats of primer on, but Cracker junior came by with his new girlfriend and we quit for the afternoon and fried some fish and squash fritters.

These are the chase tube holes, sealed with epoxy. They get one more coat.

Console primed. As usual the primer showed me where I need more fairing, but it's just minor.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 01, 2014 6:55 pm

by AtTheBrink

That console is looking sharp!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 01, 2014 8:14 pm

by ks8

Time to go fishing.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 01, 2014 9:01 pm

by Cracker Larry

It dang sure is

Real fishing

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jun 02, 2014 7:25 am

by Walkers Run

[quote="Cracker Larry"] Then he wanted to shoot my XD, so we did. He liked my pistol range in the front yard too

Now I'm jealous !

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jun 02, 2014 4:37 pm

by Cracker Larry

Now I'm jealous !

That's just one reason I live out in the country

Got the second coat of primer on this afternoon. Yesterdays first coat showed me where the fairing needed more attention, so spot faired about a dozen different places with Quick Fair this morning. Let it dry 4 hours, sanded the whole thing again by hand for the umpteenth time, and rolled on a second coat of primer. Much better. Still missed a spot

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jun 02, 2014 7:06 pm

by Rogerdog

That looks great!

I thought you were going fishing. No matter how good a chum slick you put out, the cobia are not going to bite in your yard.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jun 02, 2014 7:11 pm

by Cracker Larry

Wind has been blowing like stink, been waiting for it to lay down. Rest of the week is looking good

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jun 02, 2014 11:11 pm

by jorgepease

Sweet! Can't wait to see it fully rigged!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jun 03, 2014 12:32 pm

by Aripeka Angler

I really like the console

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jun 03, 2014 9:39 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:
I think the any water that gets under the console will drain out the back and out thru the floor drains.
Exactly

Okay I hear you two! but then why is the (extra) base needed in the console? if the console was glued on the sole it does do the same!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jun 03, 2014 10:03 pm

by AtTheBrink

Peter, the sole than is in the boat now is a sub-sole or sub-floor. There is going to be a cypress plank floor glued on top of it. Once the finished cypress floor is in the base of the console will be level with the finished floor.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jun 06, 2014 8:15 pm

by Cracker Larry

Console is about ready for topcoat and rigging. Just a few details left, and another trip to Lowes, so I can extend a couple of chase tubes. Lowes loves me

Also got in a remote fill kit for the steering pump, looks like it will work out just right

This is where we were yesterday.

Spirit and soul rejuvenated

Hit it long and hard today. I've been procrastinating and pondering on building these frames with the rod holder inserts long enough. It's time to get it done. 6 frames, each made from 3 layers of 3/8 plywood. 18 pieces in all. Thanks Peter

Getting a lot of band saw practice.

Fit the rod holders into the center piece of each frame, with room cut out for them to pivot, and stops put in the right places in each. This one needs a little more trimming.

There we are, one down, 5 to go...

2 down and 4 to go...

and not done yet

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jun 06, 2014 9:27 pm

by jorgepease

That console is going to need a luxury seat!!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jun 06, 2014 9:32 pm

by Cracker Larry

Each set of frames has a different angle and height, so each have to be fitted uniquely. Can't do a mass production with these.

Got them all fitted to satisfaction, dog was exhausted, it's hot.

And primed everything both sides. Tomorrow they get another coat of epoxy, then dog and I will glue them up.

This is where we quit today, after about 12 hot hours

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jun 06, 2014 9:33 pm

by AtTheBrink

I love your inventiveness and innovation Larry and Peter! Those are cool rod holders!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jun 06, 2014 9:35 pm

by Cracker Larry

That console is going to need a luxury seat!!

I think it's going to get one

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jun 06, 2014 10:48 pm

by Rogerdog

Dang that's pretty!

Somebody's lovin on that boat.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jun 06, 2014 11:07 pm

by AtTheBrink

Thanks for posting those pictures Larry!

Not sure which way you are going with hatches on this boat but if you are building them I have several sets of hinges I am not going to use. Nice double hinged stainless hinges from GEM. If you want them they are yours. Pay back for the fuel fill hose. And for posting all pictures in my thread

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jun 06, 2014 11:17 pm

by Cracker Larry

Somebody's lovin on that boat.

If you don't love what you do, you should probably be doing something else

It took me a while to learn that.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jun 06, 2014 11:20 pm

by Cracker Larry

Not sure which way you are going with hatches on this boat but if you are building them I have several sets of hinges I am not going to use.

Thanks Mike, but we've already got all the hatches we need. No problem on the fuel hose or pics, de nada.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jun 07, 2014 2:23 am

by antoniekruger

Very nice, indeed

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jun 07, 2014 5:40 am

by wegcagle

Nice work Larry

those rod holders are definitely one of a kind. Really cool.

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jun 07, 2014 10:16 am

by Dougster

I'm like everyone else. I love the rod holders and the console is amazing. I liked your earlier comment "the only thing wrong with this boat is it's not mine"

Watchin' the show Dougster

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 08, 2014 5:37 pm

by Cracker Larry

Appreciate it yall. Learning as I go with these frames.

I love your inventiveness and innovation Larry and Peter! Those are cool rod holders!

Every time Peter gets a good idea, it takes me 2 more weeks of work

Over drilled and filled the holes for the pivot bolts, sealed the inside surfaces with 3 coats of epoxy, sanded between coats, and we got them all glued up this afternoon. Had to be real careful of glue squeeze out inside the pockets, or the rod holders won't fit. No way to sand or trim inside there, have to get it out while it's wet.

Another bite out the elephant

Tomorrow I'll start installing them. The goal this week is to get these frames glassed in and faired into the side panels, sides faired, and all primed. We'll see how that works out

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 08, 2014 8:59 pm

by justin_dwyer

A work of art CL, looks like little animal figurines on the table there, nice work!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 08, 2014 9:14 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thank ya sir. Now that you mention it, they do look like animals

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 08, 2014 11:04 pm

by steve292

I haven't been around for a long time & what do I see when I call... still the same high standards

very, very cool Larry

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jun 09, 2014 7:15 am

by AtTheBrink

Looks like a little herd of Jackalopes!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jun 09, 2014 8:53 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Steve, welcome back

Don't be a stranger.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jun 09, 2014 2:13 pm

by Cracker Larry

Got a real early start this morning, trying to beat the heat. Didn't work. Dang it's hot, but it's better than cold

Needed to do a few more things to the frames before installing them. First I quartered the jackelopes and cleaned up the glue joints. Then re-drilled the previously filled axle bolt holes on the drill press. Next was mark and cut slots for the cleats that will support the side decks. Cut those on the band saw, much easier than cutting them later in the boat. Finished them up by rounding over the outside edges on the router table. Now ready to glue them in.

Speaking of heat, notice the red plastic plate. After mixing the epoxy I pour it in that to keep it from kicking too fast. It won't last 10 minutes in a cup.

Took a cool down break, then came back and got them all glued on. Spread the glue on the frame edges, but leave 2 little spots about 1/4" dry. On these spots squirt a dab of hot glue and press and hold frame in position for 30 seconds. Then clean up the glue joints. One wanted to act up and needed a clamp too.

Later I'll fillet and tape them. Chillin out in the A/C for a few minutes

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jun 09, 2014 2:43 pm

by antoniekruger

That looks good. Stunning work. I've never used my glue gun on heavier hardware jobs. I'll have to keep it in mind for these applications, thanks Larry.

Why are the frames not all the way to the sole? Oh yes, you're fitting another layer on the sole. Cant wait to see the sole done. I saw some guys on my side of the world use the caulked wood, at a boat show, on a big sportfisher - looked like saligna. The deck, seats ect. Looked pretty good. The gears have started turning.....

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jun 09, 2014 3:33 pm

by Cracker Larry

Why are the frames not all the way to the sole? Oh yes, you're fitting another layer on the sole.

Another layer of sole, plus we wanted a small gap so they wouldn't trap water and dirt. Makes it easier to clean and less chance of stumping a bare toe on them.

Hot glue has a lot of great boat building uses. An almost instant clamp in a lot of tough clamping locations.

Cant wait to see the sole done.

Me too

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jun 09, 2014 7:23 pm

by Cracker Larry

Didn't do any more glassing today, too dang hot. It's still near 100. I'll do that in the morning when it's 80. Did some other odds and ends, trimmed the forward frames at a slight angle and cut some more deck cleats. I clamped on a scrap cleat for a saw guide and cut the forward frames with a hand saw. I'll cut notches in these for the cleats too

More little bites

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jun 09, 2014 9:13 pm

by Rogerdog

Beautiful photo. Looks good

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jun 09, 2014 9:28 pm

by ks8

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jun 09, 2014 9:56 pm

by AtTheBrink

Little bites make big meals enjoyable...

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jun 09, 2014 10:01 pm

by willg

This thread is always fun to follow, Larry. Very inspirational as well. Thanks again for sharing your build.

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jun 10, 2014 7:43 am

by garym

looks like a big bite to me.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jun 10, 2014 9:05 pm

by Cracker Larry

More little bites. Dang it's hot and humid in GA

Warm weather was slow in coming this year, but once it finally decided to, it didn't fool around. Epoxy is a whole different beast at 100 degrees than it is at 60. It's time to start refrigerating the slow hardener. Got to spread it out thin and work fast, that or work in tiny batches.

Got the frames filleted and taped in, all wet on wet, on wet. The third wet was me

Tomorrow will be another dusty cracker day, sanding and fairing again. Was hoping to have finished this before it got hot, but that didn't happen. It's supposed to rain tomorrow, maybe it will cool things off a little.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jun 10, 2014 9:15 pm

by Knottybuoyz

Best to take 'er easy in the heat Larry. I couldn't do it. Shed hit 90 today and I had to bail out. I could never keep a pistol near my boat I'd be too tempted to shoot it fulla holes!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jun 10, 2014 9:40 pm

by justin_dwyer

That is going to be one great boat when it is finished

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jun 11, 2014 7:05 am

by antoniekruger

Hi Larry. At the higher temp's (100F=38C) it is quite different - agreed, and catching the next morning's 'wet' after an evenings layup is not possible anymore - the epoxy turns shy overnight.
Our winter came like the flip of a switch. 20C day and 8C night and then a cold snap over the weekend brought snow to some parts - now 15C day and 0 to -2C at night. I'm laminating my stringers and I have a full 4 to 5 hours gel time and a wet face for at least another 6 hours. My workshop is around 10C in the day and -3C lowest at night. I don't spend too much time in there

.
Have you cut the deck yet? Do you intend to do a wood overlay on the deck as on the sole?
We have to find a better way of fairing the tape seams.....a fibre_seam_tape_fairing_alator - comes in 3 speeds and can handle fillets of up to 30mm.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jun 11, 2014 9:08 am

by Cracker Larry

No, haven't cut the decks yet, last things left to cut. I'm going to fair and prime the sides before the decks go on. Much easier than trying to work under them. The decks will be trimmed with cypress also.

Sign me up for the fairing-alator

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jun 11, 2014 10:15 am

by Knottybuoyz

fibre_seam_tape_fairing_alator

This might work!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jun 11, 2014 2:00 pm

by Cracker Larry

All I need is somebody to drive it

Hot dusty Cracker today. Ugh ! First sanding finished and ready for fairing compound. Too dang hot now though, got to cool off. I wish they made Quick Fair with slow hardener

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jun 11, 2014 2:26 pm

by mindunderwater

So many controls and things to install! Good look at the space you'll have between deck and console, though. Seems that always runs out faster than you think..

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jun 11, 2014 8:55 pm

by blueflood

Hi CL,

Re Quick Fair with slow hardener; that was my exact thought last summer. I hope someone out there is reading this...we cannot be the only ones who thinks that

Marc

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jun 11, 2014 9:22 pm

by Cracker Larry

Dang Marc, and you are in Canada. Way, way north of me! Quick Fair isn't workable longer than 10 minutes here now, even with small batches spread out thin. Great stuff otherwise, but it kicks off QUICK when it's hot

And a month ago I was complaining that it took 3 days for epoxy to cure because of the cold

I'll still take hot over the cold

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jun 12, 2014 6:19 am

by blueflood

Sure thing CL, I would too

It gets really toasty here in the summer and I had problems with Quick Cure

last year with it kicking in too fast. I can imagine your location. I had a weird batch sent from my supplier though (Noah's in Toronto...tub labels were incorrect and apparently S3 used a different formulation some time ago... they wanted to know the lot number for reference). In a previous thread of my build, that was one gripe - little time to work or work very fast and in small batches. I just adapt.

Marc

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jun 14, 2014 4:42 pm

by Cracker Larry

little time to work or work very fast and in small batches. I just adapt.

Me too. That's all we can do, either adapt or quit. If I waited for perfect weather, it would take years

Got tired of fairing real fast, one very thin coat on and sanded, then another seal coat of epoxy on the frames. Decided to give fairing a break and fine tune all the frames instead, and get all the rest of our deck cleats dry fit and ready to prime. Was more in a mood for wood working than sanding. I go where my spirit says go

My spirit is subject to change.

One of the first things I determined, after I cut the cleat notch, was that the upper part of the rear seat frames were not quite wide enough to provide clearance for the gas fill hose

I suspected that, because speedytanks did not put the fill pipe exactly where I had drawn it. Oh well, I adapt. Had to widen the rear frames about 1 1/4". Did this with full width backing plates on the back sides and filler pieces on the front. Fit them, cut them, primed them and glued them in. This is the front side, you can see the puzzle shape filler piece.

Back side..

Cleaned up joints and deck cleat clamped in place.

Had to do the same on both sides of course, so they match. It actually looks better like this, the curve at the stern matches the curve of the bow better. A convenient accident

I dry fit all of the long cleats and some of the small support cleats. Trimmed each frame notch to the angle it needed to meet the cleats.

I'll have to raise the front seat frames about 1/2" on the inside so the deck can flow and twist properly with the camber of the bow. I suspected this too, should have suspected it earlier, before I cut the frame

It's got to look right and the longitudinal cleats tells me where the frames need to be. It's trial and error when you stray from the plans and I haven't looked at the plans since I finished the basic hull

After it and I cool down a little, I'll go out and try to get the rest of the supports cut. Moving forward. One bite at a time.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jun 14, 2014 8:44 pm

by Cracker Larry

My short cool down break ended in me falling asleep in my chair and Mrs. Cracker waking me up to tell me supper was ready

No more cleats today. This heat sucks the life out of you. Fresh fried shrimp brings it back

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 15, 2014 9:34 am

by Dougster

Sounds like a nice way to wake up. Work, sleep, eat...makes a nice cycle. I like the nifty little clamping job on the long cleats where they meet the bow. There are always things to learn on your threads. Already knew about fried shrimp though

On board Dougster

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 15, 2014 11:51 am

by Rogerdog

I love the sweep of the curved deck and the little kick in at the back. Happy accident from Speedy Tanks -- very nice.

The fill line is flexible so the fill cap will be outside of the cypress trim piece? The side decks really add to the boat, and I can't wait to see the gentle curve at the front of the casting deck behind that raised front deck.

I think the flat part of the back bench should be painted with Kiwi deck -- it will be covered with a cushion or used as a place to stand when fishing, so there is no need for a Sterling finish, and it will save a little fairing. I think that same decision was already made for the front casting (lower) deck as well. Does Kiwi come pre-mixed with the texture in the can, or is it a decent paint to which you add texture? Reason I ask is the different Kiwi applications look best with a taped border. Is the paint on which the tape is applied Kiwi without texture or Sterling or something else?

Different subject -- Is the plan to bring the cypress trim across the vertical face of the back bench and the horizontal surface in front of the three rear hatches, or is it to end with a little flourish at the back corner of the side decks near the bench? If the trim comes across the back, the horizontal trim may need to be a little wider so the rod holders are set into the trim with a little bit of cypress all around. If the trim stops at the side decks and does not come across the back, it might be nice to scroll an ogee into the trailing edge of the flat piece before gluing it down -- that description is probably a head scratcher

, so I will send a sketch.

Must be nice eating fried shrimp at home all the time. For me, its rare enough the aroma of shrimp in the pan would have had me awake and looking for the source.

Happy Fathers Day!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 15, 2014 3:02 pm

by jorgepease

What kind of wood are you using here? I need to make a rubrail and I was thinking of using coosa board but I much prefer using long pieces of wood ... just not an expensive wood since I will be painting over it.

[quote="Cracker Larry"][quote]

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 15, 2014 8:01 pm

by Cracker Larry

What kind of wood are you using here?

#1 grade southern yellow pine. Straight grain, no knots. If there was a knot in this wood it would never make this bend without breaking.

Already knew about fried shrimp though

You ain't had shrimp until you've had fresh GA shrimp right off the boat, 2 weeks before the season opens

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 15, 2014 8:04 pm

by Cracker Larry

Rogerdog, haven't got an email from you since we spoke this afternoon.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 15, 2014 8:54 pm

by jorgepease

Thanks!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 15, 2014 9:45 pm

by Rogerdog

Tried again

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 15, 2014 10:29 pm

by Cracker Larry

Got it. We can do that

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jun 18, 2014 8:42 am

by Doc_Dyer

I'm quite sure something has been done in the last 3 days

if not boat building, then fishing, or shootin gators or who knows what

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jun 18, 2014 4:30 pm

by Cracker Larry

I'm quite sure something has been done in the last 3 days

Who knows what

And what in heck have you been doing, Papa Doc.

You sound like my wife

I'm still doing. It's mighty hot under a tin roof this week, but still doing. Had to raise and change the angle of the casting deck frames. Trickier than it looks, each of the corners are a different angle, the tops have a slight curve, the forward faces are compound beveled to match the inwales and notches for the cleats beveled to meet the cleat angle. Then once fitted just right they get 2 coats of epoxy, sanded lightly and glued on to the existing frames.

And I made landing pads for the deck cleats where they meet the bow. Also compound mitered and such, primed and glued in. They are full height because we are going to enclose the area under the gunwales around the casting deck and have storage lockers in there. Lighted

And the same thing at the rear bulkhead where the cleats land. These inwales will also get boxed in, but will have a removable panel to access the fittings.

and I made all of the deck support cleats, got them fine tuned and primed them

And in my spare time I worked up another material order with Joel and Rogerdog, ordered lot more stuff, kiwi-grip, paint, clear coats, activator and reducers...we're going to give the new EMC coatings a try, downloaded and studied up on that, working up a hardware and electrical materials list, studying wiring diagrams of a multitude of things... oh yeah, I cut the grass too

So how about you?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jun 18, 2014 6:43 pm

by justin_dwyer

Every time I read your posts Larry, I realise how much work I still have to do to mine and I extend the build time by a year

Looking great!!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jun 18, 2014 8:16 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Justin. There are a lot of details, each piece has to be measured and fitted, fine tuned to just right, primed at least twice, glued in place and trimmed up again. But if you can get a few details done every day you will eventually get there.

Speaking of details, which there seems to be no end of, I'm also working on some anchor chocks to secure a 10 lb. Danforth anchor in roughly this position.

Other than that Doc, I've been laying around in the air conditioning and not doing a dang thing

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jun 19, 2014 4:50 am

by Doc_Dyer

Cracker Larry wrote:
So how about you?

Drillin
Fillin
Shuckin teth
Oh and just got to Panama City Beach with boat after a long 10 hours on the road
for another long weekend of diving

By the way your build is awesome
I expected. Nothng less

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jun 19, 2014 9:20 am

by Cracker Larry

That sounds like fun

Yall be careful and don't get bent. Watch out for Katherine too, she's headed that way

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jun 19, 2014 9:28 am

by justin_dwyer

Cracker Larry wrote:But if you can get a few details done every day you will eventually get there.

I get lots of thinking done each day

Still trying to tell myself the thinking will pay off eventually

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jun 19, 2014 11:00 am

by AtTheBrink

justin_dwyer wrote:
Cracker Larry wrote:But if you can get a few details done every day you will eventually get there.
I get lots of thinking done each day
Still trying to tell myself the thinking will pay off eventually

It pays off!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jun 19, 2014 7:59 pm

by gstanfield

Looking good Cracker! You're making good progress, especially with all that heat figured in! This year we're getting cheated on the heat, normally we have a stupid cold winter followed by a hot dry summer. This year is different, it snowed yesterday which has me concerned since I'm leaving out on a 1600 mile motorcycle trip in five days and three of the five passes I'll be riding through got snow yesterday

With that said, I am now one step closer to moving back to GA. I quit my job a couple weeks ago so I have one less thing tying me in place......

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jun 19, 2014 9:43 pm

by Cracker Larry

This year is different, it snowed yesterday which has me concerned since I'm leaving out on a 1600 mile motorcycle trip in five days and three of the five passes I'll be riding through got snow yesterday

Dang George, still snow

It's been 95-100F here every day, heat index 105+, not much rain lately and not any chance of snow

Come on down if you can stand it. I like it warm

A friend of mine visited from Minnesota a while back and he said that he's never been so f...ing hot for so f...ing long in his entire f...ing life

And how do you stand all of these GD f...ing bugs

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jun 20, 2014 4:50 pm

by Cracker Larry

Anchor chocks took some trial and error, and a lot of fiddling, some creative radial arm saw work, and some band saw work, and some bench sanding work to get right. Stickystuff gave me some nice chunks of solid mahogany a couple years ago, this is a perfect use for one of them. Did I mention that it is hot is GA

Dog days of August are here before the summer solstice even begins. 100F, 100% humidity, not a breath of wind and not a cloud in the sky. Should have gone fishing today, it's too dang hot for words

Dog alternates his time between the fan and swimming pool. Me too.

I ain't putting my fingers that close to the blade. Short on fingers already. Use clamps, cut in shallow passes.

I put the anchor to starboard to help offset the weight of the the trolling motor on the port side.

Here's one finished and tacked in place with hot glue...

And another...

And the other....

I'll cut those bolts off flush to the nuts before I glue on the chocks.

That sure is some pretty wood

Taking a heat break now. Whew

I'll probably glue these on before dark, they will be dry by then.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jun 20, 2014 9:49 pm

by Dougster

Those aren't chocks, they're art. If I had a hat on I'd take it off. Are they just epoxy coated for now? Too pretty to paint I'd say.
BTW, you got Texas size braggin' heat over there for sure!

Watchin' the build Dougster

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jun 20, 2014 10:12 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Doug, they are epoxy coated for now to seal them up good and make them ready for glue, paint or clear coat Whatever comes. I'm inclined to finish them bright. Not sure what the boss wants though, he's in France for a couple weeks. Pretty sure he has internet in France, so I should know tomorrow whether to go bright finish or tinted epoxy. Got plenty else to do while waiting on that, 9,000 things it seems like, don't need a quick decision on those. One bite at a time

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jun 21, 2014 1:50 pm

by ks8

Nice.

As purty as they are... for what they're for... and where they are.... I'm thinking tinted epoxy. You'll better know if the finish needs a touchup, because the white will be missing.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jun 21, 2014 7:59 pm

by Cracker Larry

I suspect that with an anchor banging against them on a regular basis, no finish is going to last very long anyway. That's why I made them out of big chunks of mahogany. It doesn't really matter, they won't rot either way and won't be real visible either after the deck goes on.

Got the chocks glued on, more cleats glued and a few other things done. Too hot. 102F in the shade when I called it quits.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 22, 2014 3:04 am

by ks8

I saw a guy who spins poster advertisements on a major street corner.... he took a small life jacket, took the foam out, ran tubes looped and coiled through the vest, hooked it up to a pump in a cooler of ice and water, and had his own mini space vest cooler. I have doubts that it would keep me spinning a big sign in 102F with high humidity. Youth ....

Of course, dopey me faired a hull in worse than that, without a paycheck, but I don't think I'd do it again --- without some serious cooling tech.

Glad you stopped and cooled off.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 22, 2014 4:08 am

by Rogerdog

Those chocks are very cool. They are pretty, but they are buried in the locker. I think they should be finished however's easiest for you. Merci beaucoup.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 22, 2014 11:15 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Rogerdog, in that case it will be tinted epoxy. I've got to mix a new batch of pigments (white and tan) to coat the side lockers, and since they will be visible along with the anchor locker, I need to put another coat in the anchor locker too, so all 3 will be the same shade of cream.

Send me some pictures from France, especially if you take a boat trip

I saw a guy who spins poster advertisements on a major street corner.... he took a small life jacket, took the foam out, ran tubes looped and coiled through the vest, hooked it up to a pump in a cooler of ice and water, and had his own mini space vest cooler

Never thought of that

More than once I've filled my hat full of ice and put it on my head, and a handful of ice in each pocket

Of course, dopey me faired a hull in worse than that,

That's what I've been doing this morning, fairing sides. Got to pace yourself in this heat for sure, I'm way past youth.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jun 23, 2014 4:22 pm

by Cracker Larry

Still taking little bites. Got 2 rounds of fairing done on the starboard inside, from the bow deck to rear deck, both rounds sanded. It needs one more round. One round done on the port side. And sanded. Needs 2 more. Dusty Cracker again, or muddy Cracker

Jeez, we got some rain last night, the first in a couple of weeks and today it's like working in a steam bath. Soaking wet with Quick Fair dust stuck to me like glue.

I wasn't terribly disappointed when I ran out of fairing compound today

We've got more on order, back order actually. I might recover and be able to use it again by the time it gets here

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jun 23, 2014 5:48 pm

by justin_dwyer

Cracker Larry wrote:More than once I've filled my hat full of ice and put it on my head, and a handful of ice in each pocket

I do this all the time when I am out in the field for work, great little trick. Really helps to cool the body

Right about now I am jealous of you guys fairing, I'm itching to do some (given my circumstances

)

Keep it up Cracker, and thanks for posting so much, very helpful for us newbies

Cheers
Justin

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jun 23, 2014 7:48 pm

by Cracker Larry

, I'm itching to do some (given my circumstances )

I'm itching FROM doing some

Don't worry, you'll get your chance to itch too. You'll get past this.

Not sure what it is about Quick Fair, but it bothers me more than most other epoxies and fillers, smells worse too. Sure is nice to spread and sand though. Roses have thorns.

Dang we just got a heck of a storm, almost 4 inches of rain in an hour. Needed some rain and I was cooling off anyway.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jun 24, 2014 9:03 am

by AtTheBrink

4 inches in an hour! Wow! I don't think we've had 4 inches in the last 2 months.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jun 24, 2014 11:24 am

by Cracker Larry

Ended up with 7 inches in about 4 hours

That's more rain than we normally get in the entire month of June.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jun 24, 2014 3:52 pm

by blueflood

Hi CL,

Re Quick Fair.... I want to try EZ Fillet

We'll see how that works out....

Marc

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jun 25, 2014 10:49 am

by Cracker Larry

I've never tried the EZ Fillet either.

Kind of at a standstill here, out of glass, out of fairing compound, waiting on the big brown truck. Hope it comes today

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jun 25, 2014 10:50 am

by Doc_Dyer

Cracker Larry wrote:I've never tried the EZ Fillet either.

Kind of at a standstill here, out of glass, out of fairing compound, waiting on the big brown truck. Hope it comes today

time to go fishing then

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jun 25, 2014 8:07 pm

by Cracker Larry

Well, the big brown truck still didn't come and I've got too much to do to do nothing. So I glued in the side deck support cleats on the starboard side. Wanted to have the insides faired completely first for easier access, but need to keep moving forward. Going to have to work around it.

time to go fishing then

Papa Doc, I'll see you in about 3 weeks and we're going to bend some rods. Might even break some. I've seen it happen

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jun 26, 2014 8:31 pm

by Cracker Larry

Still taking bites out of the elephant. Big brown truck finally showed up at 7 pm today. Back to fairing tomorrow I reckon. Then decks.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jun 26, 2014 9:07 pm

by AtTheBrink

Lookin' like a bote! A prurdee bote fee shur!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jun 26, 2014 11:10 pm

by jorgepease

Second That! Very nice looking boat!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jun 27, 2014 12:44 am

by justin_dwyer

Me thrid! Very nice!!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jun 27, 2014 9:06 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks all

My spirit wasn't into fairing mode today. Just too dang hot, near 100 again. Been on a roll with the woodwork and decided to carry on and get some more deck parts cut out. They will all need a couple coats of epoxy before installation anyway and while that is drying, maybe I'll get back on that fairing again.

Also drilled wiring holes through the top inside corners of every frame, so I can run wires from stern to bow and bow to stern on both sides. These will be for under gunwale lights, stereo speakers, 12V blenders

and who knows what else.

Got another little project going on in the background, for when I'm resting and got nothing to do. Mounting some flush cooler tie down brackets for a friend on his flats boat.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jun 28, 2014 1:00 am

by willg

Got another little project going on in the background, for when I'm resting and got nothing to do. Mounting some flush cooler tie down brackets for a friend on his flats boat.

[/quote]

Larry, did you finish this side project? Got pics?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jun 28, 2014 8:56 am

by Cracker Larry

Not yet, just started it before dark yesterday,

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 29, 2014 5:33 pm

by Cracker Larry

Another bite, built the rear seat over the gas tank compartment today. It took some finagling to get it fit just right.

Not many more pieces left to cut

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 29, 2014 5:46 pm

by Rogerdog

Todo esta muy bien!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 29, 2014 6:01 pm

by AtTheBrink

Looks grrrrrrrrreat!! To quote Tony the Tiger....
What are y'all using for cushions for seating? If you haven't nailed anything down yet check out C-Cushions. I am using them on my boat. Their products are really cool. It is a vinyl coated closed cell foam. They can make pretty much whatever you want and the prices are fairly reasonable especially for what you are getting. I think their website is ccushion.com.

Edit: ccushions.com is the website.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 29, 2014 9:04 pm

by Cracker Larry

Todo esta muy bien!

Thanks for not saying that in French. How were those snails anyway? I asked for pictures from France and you send me a picture of a plate full of raw snails that you picked up out the garden

Looks grrrrrrrrreat!! To quote Tony the Tiger....
What are y'all using for cushions for seating?

Thanks Mike. My buddy Raymond is custom fitting the cushions, T-top, leaning post, probably a swim platform and who knows what else. We're in good hands

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jun 29, 2014 11:47 pm

by AtTheBrink

Cracker Larry wrote:
Todo esta muy bien!
Thanks for not saying that in French. How were those snails anyway? I asked for pictures from France and you send me a picture of a plate full of raw snails that you picked up out the garden
T
Looks grrrrrrrrreat!! To quote Tony the Tiger....
What are y'all using for cushions for seating?

Thanks Mike. My buddy Raymond is custom fitting the cushions, T-top, leaning post, probably a swim platform and who knows what else. We're in good hands

Okey Doke, check 'em out sometime. It is a really neat product they produce. They are one of only two companies in the country that make this type of product. It is closed cell foam coated in vinyl, it won't absorb water so you dont end up with soggy drawers first time you sit down in the morning. The foam is nice and firm and doesn't lose its support after sitting on it for two minutes like most cushions. And there are no seams or fabric to rip.
Well, that's my plug...

I got those plans you sent Larry. Thanks! I need a new boat to dream about!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 01, 2014 5:24 pm

by Steven

Cracker Larry wrote:Another bite, built the rear seat over the gas tank compartment today. It took some finagling to get it fit just right.

Not many more pieces left to cut

Hey Larry,

What brand hatch is that? From the rubber seal it looks like it might actually seal well. My round Tempress hatches don't even count as water resistant.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 01, 2014 6:37 pm

by Cracker Larry

Jim Black. They are a lot better than Tempress, I have Tempress on my boat and they all leak like a screen.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 01, 2014 7:56 pm

by AtTheBrink

On my round hatch and round corners I used a small sanding drum on a drill to fine tune for fit. Works great, much easier than using a saw.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 02, 2014 9:40 pm

by Cracker Larry

Whatever works best

I can cut a round hole with a good jig saw quick and easy, but I've had a lot of practice doing it. Got to have a good saw too. Round corners for hatches, I cut the corners first with a hole saw of the same radius, then connect the lines. Much easier than sanding to me, without the dust, but whatever works with what you have..

Still taking little bites every day. Got all the inwales cut and fit to near perfection, if there is such a thing. First tried cutting a section to width and bending it into place. No way, no how could I bend it in 3 different directions at the same time. That was not going to happen. Ended up cutting them all about 2" wider than necessary, clamped them roughly centered, scribed them to the curves on top and bottom, then cut the scribe lines. Tedious, but all done

Moving slow but forward

Can't move fast in this heat, not for long. Dang it's been hot, even for me who likes it hot. Even Dog gave up the swimming pool early this morning and asked to go inside to the A/C, where he spent the day. That's not like him at all, usually he swims once every half hour, hangs out hunting lizards and bugs and laying in front of my fan, and he's fine all day. Not today. I jumped in the pool this afternoon and realized why, no relief, water temp is about 100F

I pumped out about 3,000 gallons of water from it into the garden, and am now refilling it from the well. Garden needed water anyway and the well water from 275' deep is about 60F. That will cool it off for a day or 2 anyway

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jul 03, 2014 6:33 am

by Knottybuoyz

Nice work as always Larry. She's gonna be a beauty!

I stumbled across this lil' boat building tip. Steaming in place using a plastic bag. Thought maybe it'd be something to help with those compound curves you were talking about.

http://youtu.be/--iPQIwSEJM

Stay cool my Dusty friend.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jul 03, 2014 8:21 am

by jorgepease

Yep, that is a great build ... and I love that video, think I may try that myself for when I work on the rub rails.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jul 03, 2014 8:44 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Rick and Jorge.

Took a slight intermission to prep the house and shop for a possible hurricane, and days without power. Arthur wasn't it though, skirted us just off the coast, false alarm. Got a little wind, little rain, not much of either.

Sanded the inwale panels and gave them 2 coats of epoxy on the insides. The larger panels will get cut outs for speakers and storage lockers, and covered inside with tinted epoxy before gluing. Can't postpone finishing the inside fairing much longer.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jul 04, 2014 12:04 am

by AtTheBrink

Good to hear that the hurricane missed you Larry. It looks like your pup has the right idea there! In the shade napping!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jul 04, 2014 3:28 pm

by Cracker Larry

Yeah Mike, dog has it figured out. There is a 36" floor fan right in front of his head which he alternates with swimming in the pool about every half hour

Wish we had got a little more of that storm just to break this weather pattern. Looks like the Outer Banks took a good lick, but not too bad as hurricanes go.

Did a little more building today, on Independence Day.

Time to wrap it up now and get some butts on the grill

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 09, 2014 8:28 am

by Cracker Larry

Still building. The heat is about to do me in, 100 in the shade under my tin roof yesterday. Sweating all over everything. Glassing and fairing and sanding and gluing.... moving slow but forward.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 09, 2014 1:34 pm

by Knottybuoyz

Sending you some relief Larry. I hope it gets far 'nuff down your way!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 09, 2014 2:28 pm

by Cracker Larry

Nope, missing me by 2 states. Stick a fork in me, I'm done. 102 already, heat index about 115. I've got to readjust my schedule and work night shift. Can't spread 6 ounces of epoxy without it kicking off.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 09, 2014 11:44 pm

by Steven

We're getting our first 100 degree weather this week. Really late. Been a mild summer so far. Can't say I wish I had epoxy work to do. Only good thing is it does cure fast allowing you to move along if you can keep up.

Boats looking good.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jul 10, 2014 6:51 am

by blueflood

In the Great White North...I have never sweated like I did the past two weeks. Even when in top shape during high school or day long cross country skiing expeditions or hiking up the tallest peak of the Adirondaks...who knew boatbuilding was this harduous

A gallon of cold juice is by my side these days.

Marc

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jul 13, 2014 9:37 pm

by Cracker Larry

It doesn't look like that polar vortex thing is going to make it down here. Just close enough to get some rain off the front edge of the front, which is nice

Only 90 today instead of 100. Still taking bites out of the elephant..

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jul 13, 2014 11:02 pm

by Knottybuoyz

Cracker Larry wrote:It doesn't look like that polar vortex thing is going to make it down here. Just close enough to get some rain off the front edge of the front, which is nice Only 90 today instead of 100. Still taking bites out of the elephant..

I tried the best I could to get the polar vortex down to you Larry. We saw temps only drop about 10 degs here. Plenty of rain & wind to contend with though. Humidity is climbing rapidly.

So I'm looking at this first picture and coveting your collection of clamps then I spot what I thought was a floor drain. Hmmmm? I'm thinking, that's a weird place for a floor drain. Then I realize it's a sanding disk. How sloppy leaving a sanding disk there, you're usually so tidy in your work!

Are standards slipping in the heat?

Maybe it's time for a refreshing cold beverage my friend. Keep up the good work.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jul 13, 2014 11:22 pm

by Cracker Larry

I tried the best I could to get the polar vortex down to you Larry.

I do appreciate the effort

90 is better than 100 anyway.

How sloppy leaving a sanding disk there, you're usually so tidy in your work! Are standards slipping in the heat? Maybe it's time for a refreshing cold beverage my friend.

Dang.Tough crowd. I'll try to tighten up

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 14, 2014 8:06 am

by topwater

Larry what are you going to use for a fuel shut off ? Its hard to tell in the pic if there's a shut off on the fuel pickup.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 14, 2014 10:34 am

by antoniekruger

Cracker Larry wrote:Still building. The heat is about to do me in, 100 in the shade under my tin roof yesterday. Sweating all over everything. Glassing and fairing and sanding and gluing.... moving slow but forward.

Hi Captain Cracker
I have been away a bit, so I'm checking in on the build. Looks good - I also thought that was a drain - like Knotty

We are shivering with maxes of 12C and overnight lows of -2C. My workshop is very cold and I picked up Pneumonia for my trouble

Between the doc and the missus there will not be much boat building until warmer weather comes along. How about an exchange program with weather.
A quick question Larry, when you layup parts outside the boat like the biax layup in the pic above - on the table, what do you use to trim back and shape the glass to the part shape. I recall you use a pocket knife - is this right? With the low temps you had, how long before you could sand your layups?
Cheers,
Antonie

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 14, 2014 11:14 am

by wegcagle

Hi Antonie,

I've personally used my sander (at a slight angle), my rockwell oscillator tool (on the lowest speed), and a hand held small floor scraper. I thought the scraper was the best, but you have to use it while the epoxy is still alittle green. If you wait a couple of days it was too tough to use the scraper (this is where the oscillator tool came in handy).

As for the GA temps, it's been 90-100F here (32-38C). For me, I get about 15-18 min with quikfair, so I imagine you won't get more than 20 mins with slow hardener epoxy. I bet you could start sanding in a few hours.

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 14, 2014 1:50 pm

by Cracker Larry

Larry what are you going to use for a fuel shut off ? Its hard to tell in the pic if there's a shut off on the fuel pickup.

John, I don't have enough vertical clearance for a valve at the tank, unless I can find something very low profile. It's real tight space. A valve is not really necessary here because the fuel hose run is above the tank level and is only about 3' to the engine. I would prefer a valve there but it ain't happening. Instead I'll put a cut-off at the filter, which is only 1' from the tank.

when you layup parts outside the boat like the biax layup in the pic above - on the table, what do you use to trim back and shape the glass to the part shape. I recall you use a pocket knife - is this right?

I've used everything, but found a sharp knife to work best. I can trim it flush to the edge in seconds, then just a light sanding to clean up the edge.

With the low temps you had, how long before you could sand your layups?

It will cure to the touch in an hour or less, but I don't like sanding it when green. I wait at least 8 hours usually, prefer it to sit overnight. It sands better and cleaner when it is fully cured. Doesn't clog up the paper as bad either.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 14, 2014 1:54 pm

by Cracker Larry

Geez, it's already 100 today

Was planning on fairing some more but too dang hot. Working on less strenuous stuff instead. Maybe it will rain later.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 15, 2014 1:59 pm

by Cracker Larry

Working on less strenuous stuff instead.

So much for that idea. Lord, I somehow managed to almost create a disaster. I wanted to get the folding rod holders fine tuned to fit the frame slots, each one has to have a slightly different stop angle ground on the back to match the hull slope. Figured that would be easy enough.

So I pick up the first one and tried to set it in a slot and it doesn't fit

The frames I had meticulously fit, and tested before glassing in, had now, somehow gone from being a 3/8 wide slot to a 11/32" slot, and I've got 16 custom made rod holders that are 3/8. Tried another, and another, they had all shrunk. What a dilemma, how to make 6 slots that are 3" deep and 12" long on a curved surface wider by 1/32"

Also considered milling a little off the rod holders, but they have a mirror finish that wold be hard to duplicate.

Time to back away, make a drink or 2 and ponder on that. The only possible solution I could figure was to do it the hard way. Wood rasp, flat file and sandpaper. Couldn't risk screwing them up at this point, that would be awful. So I made one more drink for fortification, put a big fan in the boat, laid on the bottom and got to sanding. 100 degrees in the boat. It took 2 hours to get the first frame sized to satisfaction. It wasn't easy, much worse than that, but it was a workable plan anyway and gave good results.

Made another drink, cooled off and tackled the next one. Ugh. 9 hours later I had all 6 of them re-sized to satisfaction. Thought I was going to die and my arms and hands are so sore from working wood rasps in the slots that I can't even make a fist. But by golly I whipped it clean

Then I fine tuned all the rod holders, back to where we started this fiasco, and marked them for their future positions in life.

A minor set back, but the frames are all good now and I'll recover

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 15, 2014 3:00 pm

by Cracker Larry

Forgot to add, I bet Peter heard me cussing him and his bright ideas all the way in Curacao

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 15, 2014 7:22 pm

by AtTheBrink

I[iGlad you got it all worked out Larry. The boat is looking great!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 15, 2014 8:43 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Mike, 2 steps forward and one step back, but problem resolved. Not much you can't fix, but some things are easier than others

Now it's time to step away for a few days and give it a break. I'm going to finish up a few things in the morning, get a coat of epoxy or 2 on the inside of these slots, then get ready for a fishing trip. Got rods to rig and leaders to tie.

Heading down to Aripeka Angler's, going to meet there with Doc Dyer, Smokey Mountain, Major Gator, Dboreky, Shine, and a couple other people, and we are going to slay the king's fish for a couple of days in the GOM. The fish should be scared, this crew can find them and put them in the boat. We'll have 40 rods and 6 spear guns between us. As long as the seas are less than 12' and Capt. Richard says it's laying down now, the fish better be scared. I think I'll be able to hold a rod by Friday, if not I can drive the boat while they fish

Can't sand no more right now.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 15, 2014 9:27 pm

by AtTheBrink

You got a plan! The gulf over on this end is pretty flat, has been for the last few days. You guys ought to give 'em hell! Good luck!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 15, 2014 11:26 pm

by Steven

Good luck. I'll be chasing the Kings in Port A starting Sunday. Woot!!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 15, 2014 11:55 pm

by gstanfield

Good luck and happy fishing Larry.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2014 7:49 am

by Walkers Run

What do you think caused the slots to close in like that? Could it be the heat? Good luck fishing. We caught 2 nice smoker kings last week. ( I know without pictures it's just a fish story)

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2014 9:11 am

by topwater

Sorry to read about the problems with the rod holders Larry . But you know you start making it look to easy
and Mr Murphy is going to raise his ugly head . Good luck on the fishing trip

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2014 9:31 am

by Cracker Larry

What do you think caused the slots to close in like that?

I've got no idea or explanation. The boat gods were testing me

Good luck fishing.

Fishing ain't luck

But thanks

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2014 9:46 am

by mindunderwater

CL's a building machine. Wish I could point him at my project and just let him go for a while...

Regarding the gap... before the epoxy cures wood soaks a good bit of it up, right? I wonder if that was enough to cause the swell? You'd think, though any swelling would have stopped a long time before you got to the stage where you measured...

I have a feeling this shall remain one of man's great mysteries

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2014 10:07 am

by Aripeka Angler

Your boat is looking great Captain

I got a theory about the brackets changing, I will run it by you when you get here.
Drive safe on the way down.
BTW, good thing we are not going out today. Yuk!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2014 4:06 pm

by majorgator

Heading down to Aripeka Angler's, going to meet there with Doc Dyer, Smokey Mountain, Major Gator, Dboreky, Shine, and a couple other people, and we are going to slay the king's fish for a couple of days in the GOM.

YAAAAYYYYYYAAAA

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2014 4:28 pm

by Cracker Larry

Got 2 coats of epoxy in the slots this morning, sure hope it doesn't shrink again. Cleaned up and put her to rest for a few days.

BTW, good thing we are not going out today. Yuk!

About the same here, but I don't care. Like Doc and I were saying yesterday, we can sit on the dock and drink rum and catch pinfish all night and still have a great time. I come for the company, the fish are just a bonus

YAAAAYYYYYYAAAA

Truck serviced and loaded, rods rigged, leaders tied, knives sharpened, I'll see yall tomorrow afternoon

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2014 6:47 pm

by ks8

Safe trip.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 22, 2014 5:05 pm

by Cracker Larry

Back home safe after a great fishing trip, got caught up and back to work. Sanding, fairing, sanding...nothing picture worthy but building again

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 22, 2014 6:29 pm

by Knottybuoyz

Cracker Larry wrote:Back home safe after a great fishing trip, got caught up and back to work. Sanding, fairing, sanding...nothing picture worthy but building again

Welcome back CL. Did you catch any fish?

We got a taste of your weather today, 105 F with the humidex.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Jul 22, 2014 8:34 pm

by Cracker Larry

Welcome back CL. Did you catch any fish?

A few

http://forums.bateau2.com/viewtopic.php ... start=3440

We got a taste of your weather today, 105 F with the humidex.

So did I

That's the daily norm here now. Don't know how you can do it inside of that blue greenhouse

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 23, 2014 8:28 pm

by Cracker Larry

Worked on her long and hard today. Finally finished fairing and sanding inside the cockpit on the port side. A lot of sanding. About ready for primer now on both sides. Still needs a little bit of hand sanding, but not much.

Got the port side inwales glued in too. Had to work out access to the fuel and bilge pump fittings for future maintenance. I'll cover that hole with a removable panel.

Still hot. Heat index according to the talking heads was 107. The boss is coming Saturday and I told him to wear his work clothes

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 23, 2014 8:52 pm

by PastorBob

Looks Good! Hot is right.. We are down at the family's place... I like my TN mountains in the summer.. Anything biting around here in the heat?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jul 25, 2014 7:25 pm

by Cracker Larry

Anything biting around here in the heat?

Plenty of fish biting in saltwater if you can stand the heat. Redfish, trout, flounder, bluefish, ladyfish, sharks, tarpon. all the summer time fish are here. Can catch crabs, shrimp and clams now too. Good fishing but it's hot in the marshes. I don't fish much this time of year. Stop by and visit if you get a chance.

Still moving forward, haven't had to back up this week

. Still hot. Got the inwales planed and sanded flush to the frames and gave them a coat of epoxy. Then got the rear seat trimmed flush and rounded over on the front edge, and filleted and taped it in place. And a few other little things.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jul 26, 2014 12:57 pm

by jorgepease

Looking very nice!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jul 27, 2014 9:28 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Jorge, yours is looking great too!

Roger Dog showed up yesterday morning with a truck load of more stuff. My shop now looks like a small version of a West Marine store. He also brought a fine bottle of 10 Cane rum

After working out some final details he asked what we needed to work on, and I handed him 3 grits of sandpaper and pointed at the console. He hand sanded the console and pod all afternoon while I sanded the sides again. We were both dusty crackers in a couple of hours. Time to sample some of that rum

So we spent all afternoon sanding and sampling, and sanding and sampling, and it was probably a good thing that it was only a liter and not a half gallon or we would still be out there, probably sleeping in the grass.

Sanding is much more enjoyable with somebody to talk to and share the misery and the rum with. We got a lot of sanding done and the 10 Cane was a decided success

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jul 27, 2014 10:32 am

by Knottybuoyz

Cracker Larry wrote:Sanding is much more enjoyable with somebody to talk to and share the misery and the rum with. We got a lot of sanding done and the 10 Cane was a decided success

Amen to that CL!

I really would like to drink Rum & Sand but I'd be afraid of falling off the top of the boat!

Send him up here when you're finished with him!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jul 27, 2014 2:23 pm

by Rogerdog

That Cracker Built GF18 is coming along beautifully. No detail has been forgotten, and the work is masterful. It is always a pleasure to spend time with Larry, and when he lets you work on a boat with him, its even better.

Good times.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Jul 27, 2014 4:01 pm

by Cracker Larry

I enjoyed the heck out of it Roger Dog, slept good last night too. Come back next weekend and we'll do it again

We had a battery terminal clearance issue on the big group 27 trolling motor batteries. I was afraid of that, but not too scared. Had to trim the cleats on one edge of one forward hatch frame, so the batteries would fit in their home. The Rockwell multi-tool did a smooth job of it. Best tool ever invented.

I had to notch out the inside lip of the hatch also. Again the Rockwell knocked it right out.

We settled on rear speaker locations in the console. Didn't have enough clearance anywhere else. Got those holes cut and mounting screw holes drilled over sized for filling. I first cover the area with masking tape and lay out the cut and drill lines on the tape.

Then drilled 2 starter holes in each to insert the jig saw blade. The tape keeps the saw base from marring the perfectly sanded surface, it keeps the wood from splintering on the edges, and it will protect the surface when coating the edges and filling the holes. I'll leave the tape on until edges and holes are sealed.

Drilled the mounting and screw holes for a 12V power outlet in the bow. This is for spot light, daiquiri blender, food processor, or whatever

Then jumped in the pool and called it quits early for today

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Jul 28, 2014 9:41 pm

by Cracker Larry

Geez, too hot today.103 under the shed at noon. Weather man said heat index was 115

Did light work today, went though all my parts and made sure everything that needed mounting was accounted and allowed for. Need to get it all done now to seal the holes.

Fit and cut out for the trolling motor power outlet. This thing is stout and rated for 100 amps! Picture sucks, I know, and it looks off center, but when the speaker is in place it is perfectly centered..

And the electrical horn which needed a console cut out too. Done..

Some eye screws for a bungee on the anchor chock..

And other little things too. Storming bad now. Rain is nice

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 30, 2014 5:05 pm

by Cracker Larry

Uh oh

Yall ever get a wild hair? Hold my beer and watch this

Will report in later if I'm still alive.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 30, 2014 6:19 pm

by ks8

And here I was thinking you had sold them all. Did you bring along a GoPro?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Jul 30, 2014 9:06 pm

by Cracker Larry

Still alive, just like riding a bike or sailing a boat, haven't forgot how

That was fun. Sometimes you just need to scratch an itch. You can get an entirely different perspective on life while hanging from strings in something less than a lawn chair at 3,000'. Nice and cool up there too. Need to test if you're living right every once in a while

No Go Pro, sorry.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jul 31, 2014 4:50 am

by Wouter

Great stuff! That looks awesome!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jul 31, 2014 9:25 am

by tech_support

you are one Cool Cracker

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jul 31, 2014 9:43 am

by Cracker Larry

Mrs. Cracker has another word for me

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jul 31, 2014 9:44 am

by Knottybuoyz

Good thing I couldn't find my Goose Gun!

Took the ground school classes for Ultralight once upon a time. Kinda gave up with the instructor described landings as nothing more than 'controlled crashes'!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jul 31, 2014 2:22 pm

by blueflood

I did the same thing after spending a day prepping for a parachute jump. At the end of the day, the instructor asked "is anyone uncomfortable...accidents happen.." I raised my hand and said "I'm out"

I will fly in anything tho, especially helicopters

Marc

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jul 31, 2014 3:03 pm

by ks8

Knottybuoyz wrote:Took the ground school classes for Ultralight once upon a time. Kinda gave up with the instructor described landings as nothing more than 'controlled crashes'!

? Well, walking is also a directed controlled recovery from a fall, if he insists.

I hope you didn't stop only because an instructor chose his words poorly. That was a gross mirepresentation.

And you are building a boat... A big boat.

no rogue wave worries, or killer whales or giant squids stories stopping you. You want worries... Look at the 'daily' highway fatalities.

flesh eating bacteria... Democrats! Republicans! But if you know flying isn't for you, that's healthy wisdom.

Glad you had a good time CL. Nothing like it!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jul 31, 2014 3:13 pm

by Cracker Larry

That's funny. Is anyone uncomfortable

The first time I jumped out the door of a perfectly good airplane I wasn't uncomfortable, I was terrified. 50 jump later I was still terrified. That's what I liked about it and why my wife calls me bad names

Helicopters, heck no, not me

I'll fly any fixed wing, rag wing, flop wing, delta wing, bi plane, float planes, tail draggers and trikes, but helicopters and gryos this Cracker does not pilot. I tried to learn a long time ago in army Cobra simulators, crashed those simulators so many times they had to go to the body shop. They told me boy, you got no aptitude for helicopters, and they were right. An old friend of mine is an artist flying a gyro and he's given me several lessons, but I'm no good with that. Would kill myself flying it by myself. I ain't real smart, but smart enough to know not to even try it.

Back to boat building, working on finishing out the motor well framing today, came in to make a drink and got trapped in the house by a downpour. Back to work as soon as it lets up.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Jul 31, 2014 9:22 pm

by gstanfield

Cracker Larry wrote: Helicopters, heck no, not me I'll fly any fixed wing, rag wing, flop wing, delta wing, bi plane, float planes, tail draggers and trikes, but helicopters and gryos this Cracker does not pilot...

I'm with you 100% on this one. When I was in my explosion I refused to be life flighted via helo. I had them truck me to the airport and send me to the Burn center via King Air

As to the landings, my flight instructor told me a good landing is one you walk away from. A great landing is one where you can re-use the aircraft!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Aug 01, 2014 1:57 pm

by ks8

gstanfield wrote: As to the landings, my flight instructor told me a good landing is one you walk away from. A great landing is one where you can re-use the aircraft!

I've been bumped into a few times by people who have the same philosophy, apparently seriously, about parking a car.

What could be the good reason a flight instructor says such a thing? It certainly isn't printed in bold at the top of airline boarding passes.

And yet flight instructors and pilots say it, and will continue to say it.

Glad you're still with us George.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Aug 01, 2014 2:18 pm

by Cracker Larry

I landed a Grumman Tiger once at Savannah International with the parking brakes set. Missed that on the checklist. It was ugly, hit the strip at 80 kts and the wheels didn't roll

Prop, meet asphalt. Never been covered in fire foam before. Couldn't use that one again for a while. Glad it was a rental!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Aug 01, 2014 4:33 pm

by Knottybuoyz

I love flying in choppers! First time up was in a Bell Long Ranger off the flight deck of a buoytender. The Bell 212 was my favorite but the best flight I ever had was in a MBB105 from the Queen Charlotte Islands in BC to Port Hardy. Freakin' spectacular scenery.

When I was 8 my Dad flew a Stinson Reliant. We came up short of Churchhill MB by about 12 miles and slopped her down in the muskeg. I'm pre-disastered!

Ok, now back to boat building.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Aug 01, 2014 5:23 pm

by Cracker Larry

I love flying in choppers!

So do I, I just don't like them with me driving. Neither would you

Based on past experiences it probably would not end well. It takes a lot of skill and coordination to be a good chopper pilot.

Still steady building and it's been steady raining off and on for the last 3 days. 5" since yesterday morning. Nice and cool though, low 80s is a cold wave, almost need a jacket.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 02, 2014 11:00 am

by ks8

I had someone once tell me, *Its not a perfect analogy. Flying an airplane is like driving a car -- flying a gyro is like riding a bicycle -- flying a helicopter is like riding a unicycle.* He's a retired heli pilot who now flies around in a gyro for fun.

I don't think it would map well to a jigsaw, a random orbital sander, and a dremel tool. Or epoxy, a screwdriver, a hotglue gun, or .....

Ever drop a belt sander with it locked *on*? Talk about a wild landing!

it must be the fumes again.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 02, 2014 8:22 pm

by Cracker Larry

it must be the fumes again.

Could be

Still building, more bites out of the elephant. Big elephant, larger than I suspected. I'll get her in the end

This is a milestone, Into my last sheet of plywood out of 22, and only 2 more gunwale pieces to cut. We will end up with less than 1/2 sheet to spare. Perfect

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 02, 2014 9:05 pm

by Noles309

Amazing craftsmanship

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 02, 2014 11:55 pm

by Prarie Dog

Awesome job Larry, looks great. The way you started the gunwales using the same sheet as the deck should keep them from cracking at the frame like mine have done, good thinking!!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Aug 03, 2014 10:01 am

by jorgepease

that boat is really going to be beautiful

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Aug 03, 2014 1:02 pm

by pee wee

Very nice, it's sure coming together. Can't wait to see the sole planking, that's going to really pop.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Aug 03, 2014 3:21 pm

by ks8

What a difference decking makes

Do you have any drain holes in the rear of those forward side stowage areas?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Aug 03, 2014 4:11 pm

by osotexan

She's going to be beautiful. Very impressive Larry.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Aug 03, 2014 5:21 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks all. When we get her all dressed up in clothes and jewelry she is going to be really sweet. Only thing wrong with this boat is it isn't mine

The boss came down again today with more stuff, needed some more stuff. Made some more decisions and he helped me finish up the side decks. Major milestone, all plywood parts cut now except for a few splice blocks and backing plates under the gunwale. Roger Dog helped me fit the glory board. I only cut it wrong twice

This is what's left of 22 sheets of plywood. Still need to make some backing plates and splice blocks. Should have about enough leftovers for a few good bird houses.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Aug 03, 2014 5:27 pm

by Cracker Larry

Do you have any drain holes in the rear of those forward side stowage areas?

Of course, otherwise how would the water get out

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Aug 03, 2014 6:11 pm

by Knottybuoyz

What's a glory board? Do I need one of those? Quick, I better Google it!

What do you figure it'll weigh Larry? 22 sheets ain't exactly light construction!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Aug 03, 2014 6:25 pm

by Cracker Larry

What's a glory board? Do I need one of those?

The final piece that gets fitted, not counting trim. Yeah, you need one of those, otherwise there would be a hole in the deck

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Aug 03, 2014 6:41 pm

by Cracker Larry

What do you figure it'll weigh Larry? 22 sheets ain't exactly light construction!

Lighter than any other construction method for the same strength. About half or 2/3 the weight of a similar size Boston Whaler or Carolina skiff. I think we are about 900 - 1,000 pounds right now.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Aug 03, 2014 7:20 pm

by Knottybuoyz

Cracker Larry wrote:The final piece that gets fitted, not counting trim. Yeah, you need one of those, otherwise there would be a hole in the deck

Oh, I don't need one then. I'll have a hole in my boat to match the hole in my head!

Nice work Larry. Keep it up. We're watching.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Aug 03, 2014 8:17 pm

by Rogerdog

Jacques has designed a beautiful hull, and one of the neat things about his Bateau designs is that the builder can be creative with the top sides. Cracker Larry has a fine eye for the details, and the gunwales and decks on this boat really bring her together. They are in harmony with a clean design. I saw the photos last night and had to make the drive down to Clyo to see her in person.

Larry is very patient with different ideas, and I could not be more pleased with the GF18 and with Larry's meticulous construction of her. Step aboard, and the first word to mind is solid. Pictures are fun, but they do not do her justice. The lines and flow and feel of the boat are very pleasing. What is even better is the opportunity to get to know Larry and Dori and Sugar Cane. A class act all the way.

I have enjoyed the process of this build immensely, and I am really looking forward to the final steps of pulling her together.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Aug 04, 2014 12:32 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Rogerdog, it's been a pleasure working with you also

You have spared no expense to make this boat what you wanted and I will spare no effort to make it happen.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Aug 04, 2014 1:47 pm

by wegcagle

Great job Larry. Sure is one beautiful looking boat

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Aug 06, 2014 10:12 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Will.

Still building, and dang summer is back again. Last week was real pleasant. Almost 100F already today

The boss decided he didn't want radiused corners. So now they aren't.

I'm holding off on drilling the rod holders. Raymond has made a fine set of drilling jigs for 15, 30 and 45 degee rods holders that makes them perfect. We like perfect

If it were just a couple I would fit them the hard way, but since it's a dozen I'm going to get his jigs.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Aug 06, 2014 11:35 pm

by AtTheBrink

Day's a bunch a rod holders!!!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Aug 07, 2014 1:29 am

by glossieblack

Larry, you must be getting close to planking the deck and sole with the 100 year old pine. Have the test panels you made up last year been out in the weather since? If so, how has each treatment fared?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 09, 2014 7:58 pm

by Cracker Larry

No, they haven't been out in the weather this whole time, but they still look great. We've decided to go with EMC clear coat over the cypress sole.

Still building on, still hot, lot of fitting and priming and pondering.

Day's a bunch a rod holders!!!

Sure nuff

And hawse pipes, and cup holders, and...

Raymond's custom rod holder drilling guides took all the guesswork and danger out of hand drilling 2" holes at 15 and 30 degree angles. Amazing the stuff he makes

He even made a custom hole saw by taking 2 holes saws, cutting the teeth off one and welding them together to make a double long, because a standard length won't cut deep enough on a steep angle. These are the 15 and 30 degree drill guides, and custom hole saw.

This is it in action. You mark your lay out lines, position the guide exactly where you want the rod holder, screw it to the deck with a couple of screws, and then just run the hole saw down the barrel. Can't miss

I've been making good use of them

And we ain't done yet

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Aug 10, 2014 3:55 am

by icelikkilinc

That looks like a pasta strainer

And still more to come..

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Aug 10, 2014 3:16 pm

by ks8

Nice to have the best tool for the job... a vanishing art. Good to see some still have the wisdom to keep it alive, lifting craftsmanship up.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Aug 10, 2014 8:58 pm

by Cracker Larry

Raymond has a jig and tool for everything and he designed and made most of them. Amazing craftsman.

Finished the rest of the deck cut outs this morning, then marked and drilled for all the mounting bolts and screws, about 70 holes! Drilled them all over size for filling with thickened epoxy, taped the bottom of each hole and filled them all. Bunch of holes.

Rolled another coat of epoxy on the underside of forward deck panels and motor well cover. Don't have enough room to do them all at once and it's been raining every day so can't spread outside.

Then pondered and fit the fuel tank vent, got the vent hose routed to satisfaction and installed the EPA required surge valve in the vent line. Trimmed the fuel fill hose to the correct height and tested fit. All about done there, almost ready for deck install.

Took the vent fitting back out and sealed the hole with epoxy. It will get a couple more coats before final installation.

Little bites, big elephant..

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Aug 11, 2014 8:16 am

by topwater

Larry do you have any pic's of the surge valve for the vent

I have seen the surge valves for the fuel fill and the
vapor canister in the fuel section of the bateau store is it one of those

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Aug 11, 2014 8:21 am

by Cracker Larry

This is the one we used, John.

http://www.jamestowndistributors.com/us ... ?pid=11947

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Aug 11, 2014 8:25 pm

by Aripeka Angler

Looking good Larry, I like the bling

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Aug 11, 2014 9:42 pm

by Hope2float

Larry its been a while and all I can say is WOW!
BUILD-ON!
Dave
WOW

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 12, 2014 9:28 am

by topwater

Thanks Larry , didnt know if you used an inline one or the one built right into the p-trap that Attwood
makes.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 12, 2014 9:27 pm

by Cracker Larry

Still steady eating on the elephant. Finally finished up 3 coats of epoxy on the underside of the decks, and one coat on top. All the holes well primed. They are ready to glue and glass now.

Got the fuel filter housing all set up with fittings and shut off valve.

And got it mounted. Also installed the bait tank inlet fitting. Both drilled out, sealed with epoxy and bedded in 5200.

Finished up all the fuel tank and bilge pump plumbing, permanently mounted all the fittings and connected all the hoses.

Made a tank grounding pigtail with 2 spade connectors for easy hook up later to the fill fitting and whatever else needs grounding. Connected that to the ground strap, ready to plug in.

While waiting on epoxy to dry again I decided to go ahead and pull some wires before the rear deck gets glued on. It won't get any easier than it is now. Pulled wires through the chase tubes for fuel tank sending unit, tank ground, port and starboard under gunwale lighting and another pull string just in case.

Also mounted the LED lights inside the bait tank and cooler, routed the wires through the chase tubes that we put in for the trim tab hoses. Dual purpose. Drilled a little hole for the wires and sealed with 5200. Ignore the dirt and dust on the bottom, plenty of that, it will will clean right up

The cooler light points up, hopefully helping you to find your beer, not that I've ever had a problem with that. The bait well light is the same but points down and is mounted to the bottom of the box. Don't want a light on top of a bait box, the bait will jump up towards it.

Dog says it's too hot for words. Swim, fan, swim, fan, swim...

Did some more stuff too, and a lot of sweating, swatting bugs and pondering. Always pondering

Another double check in the morning to make sure I haven't forgot anything important, then I'll glue down the rear decks.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Aug 13, 2014 9:40 pm

by Cracker Larry

Steady working forward. Masked and papered for deck gluing. It's easier to mask it all now than cleaning up a mess on already faired surfaces. Consolidate my gains, don't want to back up and do that again.

It was near 100 again today and I had a lot of glue to mix. I put the hardener and resin in the refrigerator for a couple of hours before mixing. This gives a much longer working time in the heat. The rear deck section took 12 oz of mixed epoxy and 4 cups of wood flour. Could not have done this without cold epoxy.

The next section took 9 oz and 3 cups.

Moving slow but moving forward.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Aug 14, 2014 10:37 pm

by Cracker Larry

Finished up the tinted epoxy in the forward lockers today so I can deck them over. Only a few more pieces of wood left to glue, 3 I think, out of about 3,000

And put a final coat of the same in the center console. Now I can start mounting stuff in there

The boss is coming tomorrow, I hope he wears his work clothes and brings some 10 cane

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Aug 15, 2014 11:47 am

by Joe H

100? I can’t move in anything above 80!
The work on this boat surpasses anything you have ever done Larry,(that I have seen) superb! Your attention to detail is crazy, makes me want to go back and check a bunch of stuff on my boat, did I do that???

Looking great!

Joe H.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Aug 15, 2014 12:38 pm

by terrulian

Truly awesome. Obviously the result of a lot of pondering, as you note.
I had to Google 10 Cane, though.

Are you able to estimate the epoxy/wood flour just by eyeballing the job?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 16, 2014 7:33 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks yall. When a man is willing to pay me for my work, he deserves the best I can do.

Are you able to estimate the epoxy/wood flour just by eyeballing the job?

Yes, lots of practice

No much to report yesterday, the boss came down, we terminated some wiring, filled some screw holes, coated the front lockers with one more coat of tinted epoxy, made a few more executive decisions, and spent the afternoon in the shade in front of the fan

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 16, 2014 7:50 pm

by jorgepease

Sweet Boat!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 16, 2014 9:13 pm

by Cracker Larry

Another milestone today, All of the deck pieces are glued down

I had enough clamps to glue the starboard side down. Used screws on the port and forward sections.

You can see that we mask off everything that we don't want to do again. Rogerdog finished these compartments up yesterday and I don't want to mess them up now, so they all get taped and papered before the decks go on.

Last piece of plywood is glued in. Done

I've got a few more backing boards to cut for accessories and such, but otherwise all the hull structure is complete. I'll get it glassed the first of the week. I think Mrs. Cracker and I are going shrimping in the morning. Need some shrimp in the freezer.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Aug 17, 2014 11:40 am

by AtTheBrink

Dang Larry! That is an amazing boat you built! Excellent work! Looking forward to seeing her complete! Are you doing the paint or are you sending it out for paint? When will we start to see the aluminum work going on?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Aug 17, 2014 7:33 pm

by cottontop

Larry, Sorry to have been a stranger for so long. Retirement for me suits me just fine, but have been busier than flies on cow s***! Started a total remodel of our kitchen in January and just got it finished. Mrs told me last night I outdid myself on this one. Love these projects, but not one taking 6 months "inside the house". Boy does this boat look fine!!!!! You have really outdone yourself this time. Don't know when it will be, but would like to get up to visit you sometime. Really missed being able to see all of you at the boat meet. Hopefully next year if there is one. Keep cool. John

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Aug 17, 2014 8:41 pm

by Cracker Larry

Are you doing the paint or are you sending it out for paint? When will we start to see the aluminum work going on?

Thanks Mike. I reckon I'm doing the painting too. Going to try anyway. Aluminum and upholstery should be going on about October if I stay on schedule.

Larry, Sorry to have been a stranger for so long.......

Don't be a stranger John. Come on anytime. There ain't no keeping cool here, it's near 100 every day. Just got to pace ourselves and stay hydrated in this heat.

100? I can’t move in anything above 80!

80 is about our night time/ pre-dawn lows right now Joe

Beats the heck out of cold, snow and frozen water.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Aug 17, 2014 11:17 pm

by AtTheBrink

Frozen water belongs in a glass...

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Aug 18, 2014 8:37 am

by antoniekruger

HI Captain,
Checking in. Trust everybody is well.
Goodness that looks good - excellent progress. I cant believe that it is still so hot there. I suspect you'll be having a mild winter if the summer is any indication. Things are heating up a bit on my side of the planet.
Keep up the goo work, mate.
Antonie

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Aug 18, 2014 9:11 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks for checking in Antonie. The weatherman just said this would be our hottest week so far this summer, over 100 every day, heat index 115-120

Frozen water belongs in a glass...

Exactly! Right here in my rum drink is where ice belongs

Plugged about 100 screw holes yesterday, then worked on the steering, drilled for the remote hydraulic fluid fill, and some other stuff.

I've got to sand all the plugs today, then get out the router and trim the deck edges flush and round them over. Building on, if the heat doesn't kill me.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Aug 18, 2014 9:46 pm

by Cracker Larry

We sanded all the filled screw holes today. Me and dog. About 200 holes all total. Then put a flush/ straight cutting bit in the router with a pilot bearing and went around the inside and outside of the decks, trimming them flush to the rub rails and inwales. Then switched to a 1/2" round over bit, went around the inside and outside with it set at 1/2 depth, then again at full depth.

If you want to make sawdust, nothing competes with a router

Then sanded the entire thing again after routing.

Then cleaned up all the sawdust, vacuumed, wiped down and gave the deck, rub rails and inwales a sealing coat of epoxy in prep for glassing.

Weatherman was wrong, it was a mere 99 under my shed today

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Aug 18, 2014 10:05 pm

by Rogerdog

Looks very good.

Did you find any shrimp?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 19, 2014 12:14 am

by whosmatt

Larry,

This boat is looking great. Haven't been here in a while.. that rod holder guide is a sharp piece of gear. Keep up the good work!
Matt

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 19, 2014 8:14 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Rogerdog and Matt.

Did you find any shrimp?

Couldn't get Mrs. Cracker out of bed. She was all for it until I told her we had to leave at 0600 to catch the tide

Going to try and get some glassing done today. That should be fun at 100 degrees.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 19, 2014 7:44 pm

by cottontop

You are really getting so very close. I read where you are going to mount lights under the gunnels. Do you have the lights already/ color/what type are you going to use/ where are/did you get them from? I added gunnels to my OD 18 last year(using info from you and our buddy with the "yellow" OD 18 in Arizona) and pre-drilled holes under them to run some lights. Boy did they turn out well and really stiffened the sides up. Should get the boat out of the shop(motor tuneup, I'm not as good of a mechanic as you) late this week. Going to start trying to take the boat out once a week. Mama's orders. She was launched in 2005 and only has 110 hours on her. Keep cool. John

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 19, 2014 10:13 pm

by Cracker Larry

Going to start trying to take the boat out once a week. Mama's orders. She was launched in 2005 and only has 110 hours on her. Keep cool. John

That sounds like good therapy for whatever ails you. 110 hours in 9 years

You need to go fishing John.

It was hot as Hades until mid afternoon, then had a huge thunderstorm roll through, raining sideways again, lot of thunder and lightning and wind. Dog ran off into the woods, lost him for a couple of hours. Wet the entire boat, didn't get the glassing done that I wanted to. Cooled things off though. Did some more sanding, had several spots that needed more filling before glass, fixed all those, masked everything off that needed it, got dog back, still raining now.

I read where you are going to mount lights under the gunnels. Do you have the lights already/ color/what type are you going to use/ where are/did you get them from?

Yes, got them already, I'm pretty sure they are all white. About 240 of them if I remember right. Lights for under the gunwales all around, lights in the bait tank, and cooler, and anchor locker, and under the console in the back, and under in the front, and in the upper console, and under the bow deck, and in the anchor locker, and in the side storage lockers....we've got lights.

I don't remember the brand offhand, I'll look tomorrow and let you know. Not sure where they came from either, other than they came on the big brown truck. Rogerdog sends me more stuff than I can keep up with. My 400 square foot shop is full of stuff that somehow I'm going to pack into 110 square feet of boat

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 19, 2014 10:53 pm

by Rogerdog

Lights came from Blue Water LED. The Pro Boat LED package. www.bluewaterled.com

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Aug 20, 2014 1:09 pm

by cottontop

Thanks Larry and Rogerdog. I really appreciate the info. Your light kit looks like the best complete setup at the best price. Miller's Marine called at 8:30 AM and said my boat is ready to go. They gave me a complete printout and diagnosis of motor. Everything A OK. Going to put her on the water tomorrow morning and see how she runs. John

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Aug 21, 2014 11:30 am

by Cracker Larry

Hope you had a good trip out on the water John. Show us some pictures

Is it as hot there as it is here?

Jeez, worked yesterday in 100 degrees, sanded all my gap filling, cleaned up the mess, then fit and cut all the glass for the decks. The prior day's sideways rain made most of my masking fall off and I had to re-do all that

Didn't quit work until dark, thought I was going to die.

Got up at 0530 this morning and started glassing as soon as it was light enough to see. Had to beat the heat. Finished up all the decks at 1030, and it was already 95 degrees. Glad that's over with. The rub rails will be clear finished so I'll cover them with 6 ounce woven cloth. Everything else on the decks is 12 ounce. Only a little more glassing to do.

Pictures to follow after I cool off. I'm not hitting another lick until sundown.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Aug 21, 2014 12:34 pm

by Cracker Larry

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Aug 21, 2014 2:42 pm

by Knottybuoyz

Got a question Larry.

I know nothing of rod holders but do you have to put a backing plate under them? I'm thinking of a few for our boat for a BBQ Grill, Filleting table and who knows maybe a fishing rod or two.

Thanks

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Aug 21, 2014 5:21 pm

by Cracker Larry

Rick, no need for backing plates for any fishing situation this boat will do. The decks are 3/8 and covered with 12 ounce biax, so plenty strong enough. 4 of the rod holders across the transom will also support 2 removable back rests. If the decks were 1/4", I would back them up. Or if you are doing some serious fishing for big fish like marlin, tuna, or deep sword fishing with electric reels, then yes I would back them up. As is they can easily handle 200 pound fish or a BBQ grill.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Aug 21, 2014 5:30 pm

by Rogerdog

That looks great -- very slick.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Aug 21, 2014 5:32 pm

by Cracker Larry

I was pretty slick too by the time I got finished with that!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Aug 21, 2014 7:29 pm

by cottontop

I'll say it again, your work is magnificent. You are a real craftsman. Got on the water by 8:45 this morning. No fishing today. Just running the boat. Motor ran great. Water was smooth as glass. Got off by 10:30. Ran the boat at 5000 to 5500 rpm for a solid hour. Not a single miss, etc. Will start trying to go out at least once a week. Had to wait on 3 boats to be loaded. I was dripping wet by the time I pulled away from the landing. Was 97d/106 humiture at that time. Too danged hot to do anything but drink beer and stay in the A/C.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Aug 21, 2014 8:36 pm

by Cracker Larry

I was dripping wet by the time I pulled away from the landing. Was 97d/106 humiture at that time. Too danged hot to do anything but drink beer and stay in the A/C.

I hear you there. Almost too hot to even drink beer

It was so hot this afternoon that I watched old Gunsmoke, Bonanza and Big Valley western re-runs on TV, and I seldom turn on the TV. Dog was inside from 1000 until 1800. he didn't want any part of it. Didn't even want to swim.

After the sun went down past the trees, I went back out and trimmed the glass edges and cut out the glass from all the holes. It's perfect right now for trimming with a pocket knife, still too green to sand. Going to have to get up early tomorrow to do that. Going to try to get the rub rail glassed too, before I have to run inside again. My Droid keeps telling me there is a severe heat advisory and the elderly and pets should remain indoors. I think that's us

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Aug 21, 2014 9:15 pm

by Cracker Larry

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Aug 22, 2014 3:06 pm

by Cracker Larry

Sanded all of yesterday's glass work, it took about 6 hours, longer than I thought, everything does

Got too hot, had to quit and get in the pool.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 23, 2014 4:55 pm

by robbiro

Larry, You are the textbook!!! Phenomenal work and PONDERIN''.

Keep on Buildin'

Robbie

Oh, yea, I have thought about Dori aver the last several months, everything still going well!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 23, 2014 5:51 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Robbie. Dori is still doing well we think, has a 6 mo. checkup next week. Time will tell. Thanks for asking.

I got another early start today and glassed the rub rails with 6 oz. woven cloth, overlapping the gunwales a couple inches all around. Wow, that cloth goes invisible when it's wet out, and it doesn't take much epoxy to wet it out. Very cool

Had to cut 40 feet of 8" wide strips of cloth from a full sized roll and piece them together.

Still 100 degrees at almost 1800 !

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Aug 24, 2014 8:33 am

by topwater

Larry i thought you were going to put a ipe rub rail on her .Did you change your mind

Great work as always.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Aug 24, 2014 5:31 pm

by Cracker Larry

Still planning on an ipe rail over the mahogany.

Got the motor well glued, filleted and glassed in today. That was the last piece of plywood to install, except for a couple of backing blocks. Still have to cover the sole with glass and then we can switch from building mode to finishing mode

Also cut out and drilled over sized mounting holes for a pedestal seat base on the front deck. Backed those up with duct tape, gave the big hole 3 coats of epoxy and filled the bolt holes with thickened epoxy. Still need to work out the trolling motor mount, and cleats and chocks on the bow deck. I think that will account for everything on the decks.

Pictures might follow if Droid and Photobucket start playing nice again.

The temp was cooler today, nice change, only 92 and windy. That's a lot better than 102

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Aug 24, 2014 9:20 pm

by Cracker Larry

I use a lot of masking paper and tape. Don't want to mess up what we have finished so far.

Pre-cut the glass for the motor well, then moved it aside.

Glued and filleted it in, then wet it out, all wet on wet. That picture sucked

Cut out and filled holes for seat pedestal..

I see light at the end of the tunnel

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Aug 24, 2014 9:28 pm

by peter-curacao

This boat after many years one can cut in: 3 , 4 , 5 or 500 axes and double it in 3d! they won't find a flaw! great work as always captain!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Aug 25, 2014 1:41 pm

by cottontop

Work just keeps on looking fine

. If you can use some "quik fair" I have an unopened gallon you can have. Let me know where to mail it to you. No Charge. Won't ever use it more than likely. John

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Aug 25, 2014 3:14 pm

by Cracker Larry

I'll sure take it John

Thanks!

Larry Teuton
1448 Clyo Shawnee Rd.
Clyo, GA 31303

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Aug 25, 2014 7:03 pm

by ks8

Nice. Solid.

100 at 1800? Oy. Sure was nice when the cooler drier air and breeze came in down here too. The relief looks like it is coming, and I am relieved.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Aug 25, 2014 7:22 pm

by Cracker Larry

Me too

Very nice today, only in the 80's, low humidity and windy too. Good day for sanding, and that's what I did all day. Sanded the glassed rub rails, the side decks again, the inwales again, and the motor well. Did it first all around with the R/O, then again by hand. Dusty Cracker again. About ready to fair the gunwales now.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2014 7:32 am

by cottontop

It will be on the way tomorrow. Will get a box to ship it in today. Glad to pass it on. John

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2014 8:03 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks much John. Appreciate it. I'll probably put it to use this week, got to start fairing the decks today. I'll be glad when that and the sanding is over!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2014 12:54 pm

by Knottybuoyz

Cracker Larry wrote:Thanks much John. Appreciate it. I'll probably put it to use this week, got to start fairing the decks today. I'll be glad when that and the sanding is over!

I kinda miss all the sanding.

Somehow I think there's a lot more of it to do in my future!

Sand on Dusty Cracker.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2014 6:14 pm

by cottontop

Sending some other goodies too. It was too late to get in todays shipment(FEDX). Fella said it would go out late tomorrow. It will be coming ground shipped. John

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2014 9:18 pm

by MarkOrge

CL, those holes for the seat base, this provides the solid sleeve for ht e bolts yes ? And, how large do you go ? For example if we have a 1/4" screw, do we go 3/4" hole saw and fill to provide 1/4" thickness around the bolt itself ?

Do we go more aggressive say on cleats, bow and transom eyes, etc.?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2014 9:24 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks again John

Still sanding. Nothing much to picture here but more sanding dust.

Somehow I think there's a lot more of it to do in my future!

You think

In my experience the inside is a LOT more work than the outside.

Good news, Mrs. Cracker had her 6 month follow up and the tests were clean

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2014 9:31 pm

by Aripeka Angler

Cracker Larry wrote:
Good news, Mrs. Cracker had her 6 month follow up and the tests were clean

That's the best news I heard all day, Sandi and I are very happy for you guys.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2014 9:35 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Richard. It was quite a relief for us.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2014 9:40 pm

by Dougster

Yes, that's the best of news. Been following your build and admiring it plenty. Again, it's great to hear good news from Cracker land!

Still on board Dougster

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2014 9:41 pm

by Rogerdog

That's great news!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2014 9:47 pm

by MarkOrge

CL, my apologies I was scanning and selfishly missed the news about Mrs. Cracker and posted a question.

Great news, God Bless !

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Aug 27, 2014 6:43 am

by icelikkilinc

Great news captain, build on.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Aug 27, 2014 7:27 am

by Walkers Run

Great news!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Aug 27, 2014 7:49 am

by blueflood

Good news Larry

!

Marc

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Aug 27, 2014 8:29 am

by msujmccorm

Wonderful news Larry.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Aug 27, 2014 8:48 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks all.

Sorry Mark, I missed this question...no need for apologies

CL, those holes for the seat base, this provides the solid sleeve for ht e bolts yes ? And, how large do you go ? For example if we have a 1/4" screw, do we go 3/4" hole saw and fill to provide 1/4" thickness around the bolt itself ?

Depending on the fitting and the depth of the wood, but I usually drill twice the screw size. 1/2" hole for a 1/4" screw, Sometimes less. This seat base uses 5/16 bolts and I drilled them 1/2. It only needs a little epoxy collar. When holes are very deep, like through the transom, I drill a bigger hole. This way when I re-drill and don't get the bit exactly centered it leaves some room for error. Engine mounting bolts are almost always 1/2" and I drill and fill a 1" hole for those.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Aug 27, 2014 11:18 am

by wegcagle

Just awesome to hear the good news Larry. I am really glad Dori is doing so well. Miss you guys.

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Aug 27, 2014 11:29 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Will, we miss you too. It's almost time for some fall fishing

We might have to go out and get some blood other than mine in Rogerdog's new boat

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Aug 27, 2014 11:44 am

by Knottybuoyz

Cracker Larry wrote:Good news, Mrs. Cracker had her 6 month follow up and the tests were clean

Great news CL!

Gotta be happy with that!

I think I'll go sand something to celebrate! Maybe not. I'll just raise a glass of something cold & toast Mrs. Cracker.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Aug 27, 2014 12:44 pm

by tobolamr

Yes, Congrats on Mrs. Cracker's clean bill of health!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Aug 27, 2014 4:54 pm

by ks8

Great news!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Aug 27, 2014 5:41 pm

by cottontop

Best news in the world about Mrs. Cracker and for you too. I just got my 5 year clear(DR. says I still have to come in twice a year for 5 more years, but I'll sure take it.) Shella just got her 3 year all clear. Ya'll need to go out and celebrate. John

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Aug 28, 2014 6:24 am

by glossieblack

Cracker Larry, So very delighted that Mrs Cracker prognosis is good. When you were both staring down the big C barrelled last year, so too was I. It was then that I swore that if after the chemical warfare assault of chemotherapy I survived and got a favourable prognosis 12 months on, then among a few other things that I most wanted to do before I fell of the perch, one was to build Jacque's beautiful ST21. Six month on, it's so far so good and six months to go. Your build thread is an inspiration. Thankyou, and best to you both.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Aug 28, 2014 9:34 am

by wegcagle

Thanks Will, we miss you too. It's almost time for some fall fishing We might have to go out and get some blood other than mine in Rogerdog's new boat

Sounds good to me.

You sure wouldn't want to the man to take home an unproven boat

I do think that Jacques should start adding an extra 1/2 lb to 1lb to the estimated hull weight for blood loss

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Aug 28, 2014 10:08 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks again all. We sure appreciate all our friends on here. John, glad to hear you and Sheila are still doing well. Glossieblack, the same for you. We never know what tomorrow will bring, so we try to make the best of every day we have.

I've got another long day of sanding ahead, procrastinating getting started. The decks on this boat keep growing, I think they are 1/2 acre now

Wax on, wax off. It takes almost a full day and 8 mixes of Quick Fair to get around the decks once. Then almost a full day to sand it, then another day to spread it again, and another to sand it, then do it again. And again. I'd like to call it good enough, but it's not, so we'll do it until it is or I fall over dead. Sure will be glad when this is behind me and not in front of me

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Aug 28, 2014 12:40 pm

by Rogerdog

I think dusty Cracker knows he can use that boat anytime he wants to take it anywhere he wants for anything he wants!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Aug 28, 2014 3:26 pm

by Cracker Larry

I think dusty Cracker knows he can use that boat anytime he wants to take it anywhere he wants for anything he wants!

We might invite you along too

I do think that Jacques should start adding an extra 1/2 lb to 1lb to the estimated hull weight for blood loss

And 20 more for sweat. Still sanding, taking a break. Time to put some rum in the cup.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Aug 28, 2014 3:36 pm

by Rogerdog

I'll bring the rum

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Aug 28, 2014 4:40 pm

by Cracker Larry

You're invited

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Aug 28, 2014 10:54 pm

by Cracker Larry

I've got another long day of sanding ahead,

One more time. Very dusty Cracker here.

Got to do it once more. It's pretty good but it isn't great. Pretty good isn't good enough.

I think I'm going to go into the GF5 bookshelf boat business after this one

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Aug 28, 2014 11:48 pm

by ks8

That bright helm box is looking better as the rest of the boat is getting finished.

Are you glad its just quickfair dust now, and very little or no fiberglass dust?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Aug 29, 2014 1:05 pm

by Joe H

I think I'm going to go into the GF5 bookshelf boat business after this one

I’m exhausted just keeping up with your thread! Really Larry, very nice, so glad all is well.

Joe & Janet

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Aug 29, 2014 4:42 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Joe and Janet, it's wearing me down too

Are you glad its just quickfair dust now, and very little or no fiberglass dust?

Not really. Quick Fair is the most noxious dust there is to me. It makes my eyeballs swell up like a frog, makes my teeth hurt, and makes me generally feel bad. I really dislike QF dust. If it wasn't the best product for the job I'd never use it again

I'll be glad when it's done.

Speaking of dust, I couldn't stand it any longer, it got to be more than I could manage. Big girl got a big bath today, along with everything around her. The floor, the walls, everything I could hose down . This is the first time she's been wet since she was right side up, and long over due. She didn't seem to mind the water. All the drains work well

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Aug 29, 2014 5:02 pm

by Walkers Run

[quote="Cracker Larry"]
Not really. Quick Fair is the most noxious dust there is to me. It makes my eyeballs swell up like a frog, makes my teeth hurt, and makes me generally feel bad. I really dislike QF dust. If it wasn't the best product for the job I'd never use it again

I'll be glad when it's done.

Quickfair dust is the only thing that I've a had any proublem with. My eyes will swell almost shut. I found this stuff called skin MD shielding lotion. I put it around my eyes before i get near any QF dust. It does help. Build looks great can't wait to see the sole installed.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Aug 29, 2014 5:06 pm

by Cracker Larry

Quickfair dust is the only thing that I've a had any problem with. My eyes will swell almost shut.

Same here. Something about that stuff really disagrees with me. I'll try some of your lotion. 2 more days and I should be finished with it.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Aug 29, 2014 6:50 pm

by Rogerogrant

Quick Fair is the most noxious dust there is to me. It makes my eyeballs swell up like a frog, makes my teeth hurt, and makes me generally feel bad

Quickfair dust is the only thing that I've a had any proublem with. My eyes will swell almost shut.

Probably a surfactant used to keep the glass microspheres in suspension messing with the chemistry of y'all's eyes. Like getting soap in them. That's most likely harmless but wear safety gear anyway!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Aug 29, 2014 7:46 pm

by Rogerdog

Wow

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Aug 29, 2014 8:42 pm

by Cracker Larry

Post by Rogerdog » Fri Aug 29, 2014 6:46 pm
Wow

Want to come down and sand some Quick Fair?

It's really fun. Strange stuff. No epoxy has ever bothered me, except for this and it has always bothered me. Not sure what it is about it, but it and I don't get along well.

Another boat in the yard today with a minor hole in it. "Larry can you fix this? Yes, just park it beside the rest of them and I'll fix it in my spare time"

Got another one coming in tomorrow, it's a crab boat and a friend of Raymond's Dad. Needs some transom work and the man makes a living with it, or tries to. I told him to bring it and I'd work it in between other stuff in my other spare time. People who make a living with boats gets priority with me, friends of Raymond's get priority too. We''ll get that man back to fishing ASAP. No lack of broke boats around here. Mrs. Cracker says she's about ready to give up the medical profession, it ain't doing well since Obamacare, and learn how to fix boats instead. I could keep her real busy

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Aug 29, 2014 9:25 pm

by Rogerdog

Want to?

Yes

But I'm at Fripp with family

Gf18 goes to back of line

Fix the crabber and back on GF18 when you get back to it

For that boat, I am in no hurry

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Aug 29, 2014 10:01 pm

by Cracker Larry

Gf18 goes to back of line

Fix the crabber and back on GF18 when you get back to it

People who use their boats to feed their families have to come first with me. Born that way. Raised that way. I think you are one of the best men I've ever worked for. The GF18 doesn't go to the back of the line, but when epoxy is drying there I can work on something else without much interruption in overall progress. I haven't even seen this crab boat, don't know exactly what it entails yet. One thing I like about working on crab and shrimp boats, they don't care if it's pretty, they are just going to ugly it up anyway. It only has to be strong.

Have a great weekend at Fripp Island. You should have swung by and picked up my OD18 for the weekend.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Aug 29, 2014 10:14 pm

by wegcagle

Call me if you need/want a hand at sanding, etc. Quikfair smells bad, but doesn't seem to bother me at all (other than having to clean it out of my contacts after sanding). I'm working all weekend, but Sept is pretty light for me.

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Aug 29, 2014 10:31 pm

by Cracker Larry

The hell with sanding. My eyeballs are still swollen. Let's go fishing instead. What days are you off now? The best fishing days in Sept will be about 23 to 25.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 30, 2014 12:39 am

by Fishwater

Rogerdog wrote:
But I'm at Fripp with family

Are you fishing the kingfish tourney?

I've been going down there since I was three; well over 30 years. I'm now taking my little ones down there. It's a great place. There are two or three spots on that island that offer some really cool flood tide fishing. Shoot me a pm if you'd like to know more.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 30, 2014 8:18 am

by Rogerdog

We are not fishing this week, but there is plenty of excitement over at the marina.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 30, 2014 8:25 am

by wegcagle

Let's go fishing instead. What days are you off now? The best fishing days in Sept will be about 23 to 25.

I have the weekend off from 26-28th off. How about Friday 26th?

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 30, 2014 9:18 am

by Cracker Larry

Put it on the calendar and we'll do it. How about you Rogerdog? Can you make it Fri 26? You and Will can ride down together.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 30, 2014 9:30 am

by Rogerdog

Friday the 26th looks good for me. I'm in.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 30, 2014 9:59 am

by Cracker Larry

All right! Can you throw a cast net?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 30, 2014 10:39 am

by terrulian

I really hesitate to suggest anything as it smacks of coals to Newcastle, but I recently broke down and bought a full face 3M mask and it's like magic. I can see, and basically forget it's there. Nothing in the eyes, no coughing. But I assume it's so hot where you are that this option would not work for you.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 30, 2014 11:30 am

by Cracker Larry

I've got one, but at 100 degrees I can't hardly stand to wear it for more than a few minutes.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 30, 2014 11:54 am

by terrulian

OK, understood. You are a man among men, even not considering the skill and patience involved in your projects.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 30, 2014 12:19 pm

by Rogerdog

That's a slow tournament this year. 15 boats on Friday and they only weighed 4 fish

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 30, 2014 1:08 pm

by ks8

Going by how my eyes and teeth react to stuff, QF dust might just work well as a flavor enhancer for food, like msg. If it causes the same symptoms maybe it will have similar uses....

Recover fast and well. Nasty dust, especially in the heat. Does benedryl help? Prevention is best of course, but if eyes are almost swollen shut ... Just saying...

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 30, 2014 3:03 pm

by Cracker Larry

but if eyes are almost swollen shut ... Just saying...

I hear ya, and taking a couple of days off from it.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 30, 2014 3:06 pm

by Cracker Larry

15 boats on Friday and they only weighed 4 fish

That's pitiful. If I couldn't weigh in 5 fish I wouldn't even show up at the scales, unless one was a monster.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 30, 2014 4:09 pm

by Cracker Larry

I had the GA state King Mack record for about 18 months, it was 72 pounds, that's a dang big King. Then my next door neighbor beat me out of it with a 75-12 fish. How weird is that? My fricking next door neighbor

He still has the state record. Dang it. Great guy otherwiise

I've always enjoyed gambling and am pretty good at figuring the odds on a bet. I figure the chances of me catching a state record fish is at least 200,000/ 1. The odds of my next door neighbor beating it has to be 1,000,000,000/1. Wish he had bought a lotto ticket that day instead.

Mackerel, King

75 lb. 12 oz. Joe H. Bell (2004)

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 30, 2014 4:11 pm

by wegcagle

All right! Can you throw a cast net?

All my life.

Lookin' forward to the 26th.
Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 30, 2014 7:56 pm

by Rogerdog

They weighed in 8 fish today

Big king was 38

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Aug 30, 2014 9:19 pm

by Cracker Larry

Dang. That's poor

Worse than poor. Every boat should have that many fish. 3 per person limit.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Aug 31, 2014 8:11 am

by Rogerdog

Never thrown a cast net, but I need to learn how.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 03, 2014 6:21 pm

by Cracker Larry

Still building, still fairing, still sanding, still almost 100 degrees. Moving forward but not much to show for it in pictures. I think I've just spread the last coat of Quick Fair on the bow, side decks, inwales and rear deck. Round 3. Got to sand it again tomorrow. This too will pass.

Dropped my Droid one too many times over the weekend, busted the screen. For the first time in it's life it's dumber than I am. FedEx just brought a new one, not looking forward to setting it up. Took years to figure out the old one. If the phone doesn't ring it's me

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 03, 2014 8:57 pm

by blueflood

Where did you get your wit CL ? Geezus the things you come up with

I'm sure no one messed with you in high school; at least verbally. How does the saying go again ?...Don't have a battle of wits with an unarmed man

Marc

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Sep 04, 2014 2:15 pm

by Cracker Larry

I'm sure no one messed with you in high school

The few who did learned that they made a serious error in judgement, I grew up on the seafood docks

More sanding today. Then more cleaning. Then more spreading QF. Got much sanding to do when this coat cures, the entire inside. I think we are closing in on her now. One more time and ready for primer. If that ain't good enough, Rogerdog can come do it again

Hope to get it all primed next week.

Pictures from my new phone, back in service again

I thought this was a big boat until I backed the 28 Parker in front of it. It barely fit through a 12' gate. I could stack 5 GF18s in it

Sure would like to have that hull, I could do something nice with that. If I live through this fairing.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Sep 04, 2014 9:35 pm

by Rogerdog

Your standards are higher than mine. One more time around will certainly be fine.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Sep 05, 2014 5:28 pm

by Cracker Larry

We gave it 8 long hours on the sanders today. Sanded the entire insides, rub rail to rub rail and bow to stern. Cracks, corners and seams. I was one hot dusty Cracker, with one dusty boat. Hosed it all down again to keep the dust at bay and see how she looked under there. Still got a couple of spots that need attention, but we're 95% now. Jumped in the pool to soak the dust away. Sure will be glad when I can quit sanding QF. Ugh. Almost there

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 06, 2014 3:20 am

by antoniekruger

Well done, Captain - sweet right there.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 06, 2014 9:43 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Antonie. If I can keep my momentum going for 2 more days I'll have it whipped.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 06, 2014 12:20 pm

by tobolamr

Cracker Larry wrote:I grew up on the seafood docks

Geez man - what HAVEN'T you done!? lol

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 06, 2014 4:24 pm

by jorgepease

What color is it gonna be, looks great!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 06, 2014 7:21 pm

by Rogerdog

Larry is very patient with boat details, and we have talked about all the parts. We talked about colors, and Larry8 told me that boats are white.

That boat is gonna be white.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 06, 2014 7:38 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:

Slick as an eels pecker

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 06, 2014 9:05 pm

by Cracker Larry

That boat is gonna be white.

That's right

There are only two colors to paint a boat, black and white, and only a fool would paint a boat black.

By - Nathanael G. Herreshoff

I spread what I hope is the last spreading of QF today in the final problem areas. While waiting for it to dry I re-drilled all the deck hardware mounting holes on centers with a 1/8" bit. About 60 holes. I can still see the epoxy filler plugs under the glass at this stage and wanted to establish all the screw and bolt centers before the primer goes on and they disappear. Was hoping the QF would cure enough to sand it this evening, but it was still too green for my liking. Got a lot of rain today that cooled the temps and slowed down curing. Tomorrow's another day, I was thirsty anyway, bring on the rain

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 06, 2014 9:39 pm

by Cracker Larry

Cracker Larry wrote:I grew up on the seafood docks

Geez man - what HAVEN'T you done!? lol

Nothing that I ever wanted to do, except sail around the world

Can't help where I was born and raised though. Thunderbolt, GA. For over 100 years it was nothing but a seafood town. There used to be hundreds of commercial boats, fish, shrimp, oysters, crabs, clams, turtles, square grouper, you name it we caught it. A dozen seafood cleaning and packing houses lined the bluff. A lot of rough kids and hard men. My Dad was a fisherman and I grew up on the waterfront. Now it's just hundreds of condos, a bunch of yuppie restaurants, marinas and maybe a half a dozen shrimp boats for show. Different times, different world.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Sep 07, 2014 12:01 am

by terrulian

Larry, on another string I saw you have a pretty heavy ticket for a casual boater...you must have done some merchant marine stuff as well at a fairly high level to have the days for that level of license.

I've got you covered on the circumnavigation, but that is all I'm going to do for you.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Sep 07, 2014 9:35 am

by Cracker Larry

I saw you have a pretty heavy ticket for a casual boater

No merchant marine time, but thousands of days on commercial fishing boats, charter boats, sailboats, tugboats and pleasure yachts. My USCG 100 ton Masters ticket has been renewed 6 times, they are good for 5 years between renewals. Not exactly a casual boater

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Sep 07, 2014 2:52 pm

by Cracker Larry

Another milestone

The fairing is finally finished to satisfaction

Sure does feel good to have that behind me. Whew, the insides are much harder to fair than the outside. Washed her down one more time with the hose and scrub brush, she's been getting as many baths as I have lately. Once she dries out real good we can start priming. Tomorrow I'm going to cover the sole with 6 ounce cloth, give everything a final seal coat of epoxy and hopefully roll primer on Tuesday. We'll see.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Sep 07, 2014 8:12 pm

by GradyGuy76

Larry first off great job. I'm sure thats the first time you heard that so, don't let it stop you

. I am new here but have been a guest for about a year on and off. I will say for ideas i would peak in and find some, most were yours. Not to ever take any quotes away from any others but your very crafty. I am redoing my Grady and last night i sat down and around 6 hours later i was on page 125 of this thread. I figured if i waited to respond the boat would be done and more fish caught on this one then on mine.

Anyways just wanted to say hi and tell you all that.
P.s. Hope all is well with the family.

Guy

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Sep 07, 2014 8:48 pm

by BarraMan

Interesting propulsion system you have mounted on the nose of that boat!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Sep 08, 2014 8:38 am

by Cracker Larry

Anyways just wanted to say hi and tell you all that.
P.s. Hope all is well with the family.

Guy

Thanks for dropping in and following along. Don't be a stranger

Interesting propulsion system you have mounted on the nose of that boat!

That's our prototype air boat engine. Needs more HP!

It doesn't look like I'll be glassing today. It rained all night, supposed to rain all day, boat is not dried out enough

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Sep 09, 2014 10:02 pm

by snookiehunter

It's looking really good, Larry. I'm really enjoying following your build.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 10, 2014 5:09 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Snook Killer.

Halleluiah

It finally dried out enough to finish up the fairing, seal it all with epoxy and get the sole glassed with 6 oz woven cloth. Done

It looks a lot like it did with water on it, but this is epoxy. She's smooth as a baby's butt now.

Fat girl is built. Only painting, rigging and trim work left to do. Might get a coat of primer on tomorrow.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 10, 2014 5:12 pm

by Knottybuoyz

Fine job there Larry. The second pic shows off how fair the decks are! I hope I can do half that well.

Is there a seat or leaning post going in?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 10, 2014 5:17 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Rick. Yes, Raymond is building a leaning post, T-top, swim platform, upholstery and I don't know what all.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 10, 2014 6:08 pm

by ks8

well done.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 10, 2014 6:57 pm

by Aripeka Angler

Looking great Captain

I'm watching

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 10, 2014 9:03 pm

by jorgepease

Great job man!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Sep 11, 2014 8:02 am

by Cracker Larry

Thank yall much. This one has been a challenge for sure. It's tested my patience and perseverance, but we've about got it whipped now. The only real obstacle left is the deck planking.

Planning on rolling the first coat of primer today.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Sep 11, 2014 11:57 am

by Rogerdog

That's beautiful.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Sep 11, 2014 6:36 pm

by glossieblack

[quote="Cracker Larry"] The only real obstacle left is the deck planking.

Looks like a nice last obstacle, given your earlier experimental panels.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Sep 12, 2014 6:58 pm

by Cracker Larry

I'm working my way down to the last hindquarter of this elephant. The final epoxy seal coat had 200 love bugs glued in it, plus many other assorted insects. Cut them all off at the knees with my pocket knife and sanded out their legs. Poor bugs. Sanded everything again lightly by hand, washed it again, then some primer. Then a little more sanding. Then some more primer. Great time for the love bugs to show up

Also put another coat of primer on the console. I'm going to put another coat on the outside too in the next day or so. Then I have to do it all again. Everything will get at least 3 coats of S3 primer, sanded, then one coat of EMC primer before the top coat goes on.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 13, 2014 7:57 am

by topwater

Looking good Larry

Why EMC primer after the three coats of S3

The reason i ask is i am going to use EMC paint
on my boat .

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 13, 2014 8:34 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks John.

We started with S3 primer and I already had 2 gallons of it. Then we decided to use EMC for topcoat instead of Sterling. Joel recommended that we put on a coat of EMC primer before topcoating to prevent any possible non-compatibility issues. He said he thought the S3 would be fine, but just to be safe he sent us enough EMC primer for one coat.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 13, 2014 12:21 pm

by selever

Well it looks great and I love watching the progress!

Just a question from a kibitzer: Looking at the third photo, it appears that some of the primer dripped on the sole. How hard is it to remove it from the sole? Does it just sand away or do you require a solvent?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 13, 2014 2:46 pm

by Cracker Larry

Just a question from a kibitzer: Looking at the third photo, it appears that some of the primer dripped on the sole. How hard is it to remove it from the sole? Does it just sand away or do you require a solvent?

It sure enough did

No problem though. It will sand right off. In most instances I would be priming the sole too, but in this case we are going to glue down cypress planks for the finished sole, so it doesn't matter if it has a few paint splatters under it. I'd rather them be under it than on it, which is why I'm painting before the planking gets installed.

Completed another round of bug amputations this morning, another light sanding, another wipe down and another coat of primer. Looks just like the last, only better. I've found a few pinholes and such that need attention, not many. A teaspoon of QF will fix it, then another coat of primer.

And dang it's still hot. I see most of the country is getting some cool weather, but it's still 97 here.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Sep 14, 2014 11:11 am

by jorgepease

Looks perfect, she is an eye catcher!!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Sep 14, 2014 11:45 am

by terrulian

CL, I have a question.
It appears to me, unless I've missed something, that you do several rounds of fairing followed by primer. But what about a guide coat? To get the guide coat to be visible I had to put a coat or two of primer on. Then the guide coat, then Quick Fair, then sanding (which took off all the primer in some areas) to get to a point where I can now apply some more primer. I found that, although I could feel many of the low spots before the guide coat, some were very difficult to sense by touch, and the guide coat really did help identify some problem areas. How do you do it without the guide coat...or am I missing something in your process?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Sep 14, 2014 2:11 pm

by antoniekruger

Hey, she is soooooo......white, looks great. Dog looks happy in the cooler wet weather.
Do you have the motor yet? Do you know what you will be mounting - motor wise?
Good work, Captain.
Antonie

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Sep 14, 2014 4:40 pm

by Cracker Larry

But what about a guide coat?

I don't use a guide coat, I do it by eye and feel and running water. I can tell fair when I see it

Do you have the motor yet? Do you know what you will be mounting - motor wise?

Yes and no. Motor is bought and paid for, and waiting on me in Charleston, SC. F90 Yamaha, I've got to finish the painting, mount the jack plate and enough engine controls and gauges and wiring harnesses to satisfy warranty requirements, get the boat on the trailer and drive up there and pick it up. The warranty requires that they bolt it to the boat and plug in the wires, for some damn reason

I'd rather do it myself.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Sep 14, 2014 6:51 pm

by jorgepease

she's a beauty. The dealer that sold me mine is fine with post inspection pics. I'm starting to worry a bit about only going with a 70 though, maybe I should have done a 90 too, I don't see any boats my size with a 70

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Sep 15, 2014 3:54 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Jorge. I can't even comprehend the things you are doing with your build. Cool stuff!

I'm starting to worry a bit about only going with a 70 though, maybe I should have done a 90 too, I don't see any boats my size with a 70

Probably no need to worry. I've been on Richard's (Arpeka Angler's) XF20 with a 70 Yamaha 2 stroke and it runs like a scalded dog. This one will probably be faster than it needs to be with a 90, but maybe not. It's a big heavy girl, she can handle it. My client doesn't do things halfway. If 70 is enough he'll pick a 90

Did another round of sanding and cleaning, and spot fairing, and then more sanding and cleaning and priming. Then taped off the sides, gave them a sanding and some spot fairing and more sanding and cleaning, then another coat on primer on them too. I've got 3 coats of S3 primer on everything now, inside and out. Have to wait about 4 or 5 days for this to cure completely before priming with EMC primer as a safety coat. Needed a break from sanding and priming anyway. Whew. Even the easy stuff isn't easy. Spent a lot more time on my knees on concrete than my 60 year old body likes to spend.

Time to pull a big engine off a big boat now, something to do while I recover and wait on paint to dry

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Sep 15, 2014 5:46 pm

by peter-curacao

As always captain, great, clean and professional work, two big thumbs up

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Sep 15, 2014 7:41 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thank you Peter. How are your repairs coming along?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Sep 15, 2014 9:11 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:Thank you Peter. How are your repairs coming along?

I'm lazy! and back on island pace again, if you know what I mean!

furthermore Sammy died so Rambo was alone! found him Balu an old English bull, doesn't work out as I hoped for

so all my attention goes that way, I do ride Lucky Shot though! but still with her scars, arrh argh arrgh gives her some character and a bit of a pirate look! that's why I really have to drink the best and oldest rum when taking her out! argh argh

Those are my two deck mates, old in the back new in the front

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Sep 15, 2014 10:07 pm

by TRC886

Cracker Larry wrote:

Even 'Cane has worked up a sweat

Seriously though, you do very beautiful work

I hope to have the pleasure of meeting you someday, and I'd love to actually work with you on some of your repair projects.

I've been catching up on some threads, and I noticed your post on the top of p. 163. Do you want to leave your address posted?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Sep 15, 2014 10:35 pm

by Cracker Larry

furthermore Sammy died so Rambo was alone!

I'm very sorry Peter

Dogs are special. Just like family to me. Your new deck mate is a handsome fellow

I'm lazy! and back on island pace again, if you know what I mean!

I try to stay on island time too, even here

Even 'Cane has worked up a sweat

No, he just got out of the pool again and shook water on my fresh primer

He swims about once every half hour this time of year. I'm the one sweating.

I noticed your post on the top of p. 163. Do you want to leave your address posted?

Thanks but no matter. I'm in the phone book and easy enough to find if anybody wants to. I'd be glad to meet you too. You have my address

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Sep 16, 2014 1:22 am

by jayb01

Cracker Larry wrote:
I noticed your post on the top of p. 163. Do you want to leave your address posted?
Thanks but no matter. I'm in the phone book and easy enough to find if anybody wants to. I'd be glad to meet you too. You have my address

Not sure he's got to worry about someone just rolling up a dirt road to a home in rural Georgia with malice aforethought, at least for those concerned about their long-term health outlook...

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 20, 2014 8:58 am

by Cracker Larry

Not sure he's got to worry about someone just rolling up a dirt road to a home in rural Georgia with malice aforethought, at least for those concerned about their long-term health outlook...

Yep. We don't dial 911 out here

Not a lot to report this week. I sanded down the glass on the sole, got rid of the lumps and bumps, feather the edges and faired them in with Quick Fair all around. Then sanded that, cleaned it all up and put a last coat of primer around the bottom edge.

Now waiting on paint to dry. Going to let the S3 primer get a full 5 days of curing, then a coat of EMC primer. Then we can top coat.

Mrs. Cracker and I were going to limber up No Excuse this weekend and go catch some shrimp and fish, but a tropical storm has formed off the coast and the weather is dismal. Oh well.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 20, 2014 2:18 pm

by Steven

Why use EMC instead of Sterling? You have Sterling figured out.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 20, 2014 3:10 pm

by Walkers Run

Steven wrote:Why use EMC instead of Sterling? You have Sterling figured out.

EMC is repairable. Don"t ask how I know

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 20, 2014 10:28 pm

by gstanfield

Looking good Larry! (of course)

...and thanks to Herman Wouk I understood the "Island time" comment.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Sep 21, 2014 7:42 am

by Cracker Larry

Why use EMC instead of Sterling?

Better availability, better support, more repairable, easier to apply and Joel says it's superior to Sterling. We'll see.

...and thanks to Herman Wouk I understood the "Island time" comment.

Thanks George. 'Don't Stop the Carnival" will make you reconsider starting a business in the islands

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Sep 21, 2014 10:54 am

by Steven

Interesting. I could use repairable for sure. Have some dings and scratches I' like to fix on mine.

Boat is looking good. Console design is interesting. Looking forward to seeing it with top installed.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Sep 21, 2014 7:56 pm

by willg

Hello Larry, it's been a while since I've checked in. Your build is just amazing. I really appreciate all the care you put in your work. I'm also late in saying it but still very happy to hear about Dori's good news on her follow up.

I've got a couple of questions for you. It seems that for wood pieces that don't get glassed you put on 3 coats of epoxy. Is that your standard for all such pieces? The specific reason I'm asking is how I should treat bulkhead/stringer surfaces within what will be sealed compartments on my build.

Second question is what your rule of thumb is for how much epoxy/flour you use to glue decks/gunnels, etc. I get the sense that it's something you figure out just from experience, but for example for a 20' run how much epoxy and flour would you use?

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Sep 21, 2014 10:04 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Will, for Everything. Dori is doing great!

It seems that for wood pieces that don't get glassed you put on 3 coats of epoxy. Is that your standard for all such pieces?

Yes, I glass everything that will see the light of day, anything below decks that doesn't get glassed gets 3 coats of epoxy. Then I'm sure it won't give problems later.

Second question is what your rule of thumb is for how much epoxy/flour you use to glue decks/gunnels, etc. I get the sense that it's something you figure out just from experience, but for example for a 20' run how much epoxy and flour would you use?

How wide of a glue joint? For decks, the sections won't be longer than 8' at a time with a cleat on each side. I glue one 8' section at a time. Say roughly 16' of glue joints about 1" wide. 6 liquid ounces of epoxy, 1 1/2 cups wood flour works out about right. In our heat I can't usually mix and spread more than that without problems so I work in small sections. I wouldn't try to mix and spread enough glue to do 20' of deck in one mix. I glue one section, then the next...

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Sep 22, 2014 8:14 am

by willg

Thanks, Larry. That info will help me place the right order when the time comes (soon, I hope).

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Sep 22, 2014 4:20 pm

by Cracker Larry

No problem, Will.

Gave it a long day today, started early and sanded the primer that's been curing almost a week. Sanded the entire thing, inside and out, then vacuum, then blow it off, then wiped it all down with solvent. Mixed up my first EMC primer, it's sure smells worse than S3. Wow!

The worse it smells, the better the medicine Momma always said.

I let it do it's induction/percolation thing about 35 minutes then started rolling it out. Started with the center console, then insides, decks, gunwales, outside and both transoms. Got one coat on everything, using 4 -24 ounce mixes of primer and a dozen roller covers. Each mix has to percolate for at least 30 minutes before applying, so it took a while. Got a real good buzz before I was finished, had to get my respirator about halfway through. Strong stuff, don't use this indoors!

Initial thoughts are that it is glossier and harder than S3. Rolls out very nice, coverage is not quite as good and it eats up foam rollers faster than S3. It requires a lot of ventilation and a carbon filter mask, unlike S3. And it doesn't clean up with water. With S3 primer I can use one mixing cup and one roller tray all the way through and clean it with the hose between mixes, this required one of each for every mix. The cups and roller trays are less expensive than the chemicals it takes to clean them. Maybe it will peel out when it's dry. Looks really good though

Had a big rain move in right after I finished. Hope it doesn't splatter on my fresh paint

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Sep 22, 2014 6:50 pm

by Hope2float

Larry,
Just filtering through your thread and saw the news about Dori. My apologies, that is some great news and sorry for being so late to the news. On a second note that build looks great.
BUILD-ON!
Dave

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 24, 2014 12:22 am

by AtTheBrink

Lookin' Good!

Maybe RogerDog should consider that for the name of this boat?

Or "Hell for Stout!"

Amazing work Larry!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 24, 2014 7:28 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Dave and Mike.

Another round of sanding and cleaning yesterday, then applied the final coat of EMC primer. Got to let it dry a few days, sand it one more time, then we can get on some finish paint. It sure will be nice to know I don't have to sand this boat anymore

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 24, 2014 8:06 am

by blueflood

Hi CL,
Another milestone ! Good for you.
Between epoxying, filleting, fairing, sanding....fairing I could do all day

. Epoxying I could do without

Marc

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 24, 2014 9:25 am

by tech_support

it's sure smells worse than S3. Wow!

solvent vs. waterborne.

I prefer to work with S3 primer too, for all the same reasons you list. For the runabout I did about the same thing, go the hull primed with S3, worked out all the tiny fairing bits by using the S3 primer and quickfair. Once she was totally ready, rolled on two coas of EMC primer and did a final sanding before topcoat. that way you only have to apply it once

Had a big rain move in right after I finished

All your rain shifted south, its been raining for almost a week down here

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 24, 2014 9:50 am

by Cracker Larry

It's still raining here too Joel. Been raining every day since Saturday, looks like it's going to keep it up all week. The good news is that the temperature has dropped 20 degrees, I had to put on a long sleeve shirt and shoes this morning!

The primer you sent us was the perfect amount to get 2 coats over the S3. Thanks again for that! I am glad that I used the S3 first too. It's much more user friendly for the initial build up and fairing.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 24, 2014 10:19 am

by Knottybuoyz

Cracker Larry wrote:I had to put on a long sleeve shirt and shoes this morning!

We don't put on long sleeve shirts or long pants till it's -20C up here CL!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Sep 24, 2014 10:59 am

by Cracker Larry

Yeah, but yall are crazy. I went out and tried to do a little work, got cold, came back in and put on another long sleeve shirt. Now I've got 2

Wind is howling, drizzling rain and 59 degrees. I'm used to it being close to 100 by this time of day. Fall came right on schedule this year.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Sep 25, 2014 1:31 pm

by MarkOrge

Wow that is weird, I have been in Alberta for 7 days fishing the Rocky Mountain foothills (Grayling and Rainbows on the fly) and Golfing central areas, and we had over 80F on the weekend in the mountains (Jasper) and 75-78 the last few days back down in the foothills (Red Deer)

Chive on !

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Sep 25, 2014 10:43 pm

by jorgepease

Today was my first day working out in the sun and I thought of CL lol … it wasn't even that hot and I was burning up.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 27, 2014 9:42 am

by Cracker Larry

The final sanding of the primer is finished. Done. Halleluiah

Rogerdog came down and worked with me all day yesterday. We sanded the primer first with 120, then with 180, then with 220. The entire boat, inside and out. Then we worked out the electrical layouts like he wanted it and he labeled all the switch positions on the panels so I know what to put where. After that we primed all of our cypress deck and trim boards with epoxy. A lot of them, got the picnic table covered, the benches on the table covered, 2 saw horses full, and my tool table full of cypress planks. Got no room left around here. This cypress is beautiful, it's going to look good.

We also managed to kill another bottle of 10 Cane over the course of the day. It takes a lot of rum to build a boat

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 27, 2014 12:13 pm

by Rogerdog

We also managed to kill another bottle of 10 Cane over the course of the day.

The rum didn't even put up a good fight.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Sep 27, 2014 12:28 pm

by Cracker Larry

The rum didn't even put up a good fight.

We're staying on a perfect ratio of 1/1 epoxy and rum.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Sep 28, 2014 8:07 am

by justin_dwyer

Can't wait to see that floor come up Cracker

I notice you prime everything first, do you then leave it to cure and then acetone it and sand it before attaching it to the boat?

I am about to do my rub rail out of ply offcuts and was going to prime them, then spread glue and then clamp 3 layers all wet on wet. Is this ok?

I am wondering why you would prime them and then let them cure?
Just curious.

Cheers
Justin

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Sep 28, 2014 8:48 am

by terrulian

I'm curious too, as soon I will be just where Justin is.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Sep 28, 2014 9:06 am

by Cracker Larry

I usually let the first primer coat dry, then sand and prime it again before gluing. You can certainly do it all wet on wet, but handling and aligning boards that are slippery with epoxy is an aggravation to me. The glue is slippery enough. If you are going to glue up 3 layers all wet on wet, I'd suggest dry fitting everything, clamp them in place, then drill some holes for alignment dowels.

In this case, the deck boards won't get installed for a couple more weeks, after the final painting is complete. I don't want to splatter paint on these. They all still have to get dry fit in place and cut to final size. So we're just working ahead by getting an initial coat of primer on them now. The primer shows the final appearance of the wood surface and helps us decide which boards to use where for best looks.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Sep 29, 2014 12:07 pm

by Cracker Larry

Rain, rain and more rain. 8 straight days and it's still raining. Supposed to quit by Wednesday and if it does I'll be painting on Thursday.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Sep 29, 2014 1:02 pm

by Farmer Ray

Maybe you should be building an ark!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Sep 29, 2014 1:45 pm

by antoniekruger

Farmer Ray wrote:Maybe you should be building an ark!

Don't tempt him

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Sep 29, 2014 3:03 pm

by Cracker Larry

Maybe you should be building an ark!

I've got one

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Oct 06, 2014 9:39 am

by Cracker Larry

Not much to report this week. All prepped and ready for final painting, but the love bugs have moved in thick and nasty. It was 42 degrees the last 2 mornings so I'm hoping the cold will run them back to Florida and I can get the painting done this week. In the meantime I've been working on the Parker. This is the transom extension I glassed up on Friday, covered with love bugs in 30 minutes. Could you imagine this mess in white topcoat

In other news Rogerdog met here with Raymond and worked out the details for T-top, leaning post, swim platform, stake out bracket, upholstery and other stuff. Can't wait to see it all come together

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Oct 06, 2014 7:36 pm

by wildbill

[quote="Cracker Larry"]Not much to report this week. All prepped and ready for final painting, but the love bugs have moved in thick and nasty. It was 42 degrees the last 2 mornings so I'm hoping the cold will run them back to Florida

I thought they were from Georgia?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 07, 2014 9:18 pm

by Cracker Larry

Nah, they ain't our bugs. I think they first came up from central America into Texas. Florida had them long before Georgia did, like those dang armadillos. We used to not have either, now we have both. Still have plenty today, they haven't left yet.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lovebug

Lovebug adults are attracted to light-colored surfaces, especially if they are freshly painted,

Wikipedia got that right!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 08, 2014 9:40 am

by wadestep

I've spent my whole life thinking that the University of Florida genetically engineered and released those love bugs, but I guess not:
http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/pestalert/lovebug.htm

I guess they migrated here, like most life's other pests - fire ants, killer bees, hogs, Yankees, etc...

wade

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 08, 2014 12:30 pm

by Cracker Larry

like most life's other pests - fire ants, killer bees, hogs, Yankees, etc...

At least they don't stay as long as the yankees do

Still here. Why do I always find myself trying to fiberglass in the coldest weather, sanding and fairing in the hottest, and painting during love bug season

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 08, 2014 2:17 pm

by keysrat

Why do I always find myself trying to fiberglass in the coldest weather, sanding and fairing in the hottest, and painting during love bug season

Your timing is exquisite.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 08, 2014 5:54 pm

by wildbill

Twice a year here, Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day weekend is usually when they take flight here for about ten days or so around Central Florida. My smarty pants kid set me straight a few years back on the U of F experiment gone wrong.

Registered South Florida Yankee

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 09, 2014 8:32 am

by Joe H

I guess they migrated here, like most life's other pests - fire ants, killer bees, hogs, Yankees, etc...
wade

at least they don't stay as long as the yankees do Still here.

Really!, I was telling my co-workers about your southern hospitality, hmm, if ya'll would quick being so goddamn nice maybe we wouldn’t keep coming down! I’m sure it has nothing to do with the weather, ha.
See ya at the next meet, maybe I'll just stay!

Joe H

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 09, 2014 8:50 am

by Cracker Larry

You're one of my favorite Yankees, Joe

Come anytime.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 09, 2014 11:51 am

by Joe H

You're one of my favorite Yankees, Joe Come anytime.

Thanks Larry, I can move on now!

Your build is looking great and I'm getting BBV real bad.

Joe H

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 09, 2014 12:39 pm

by Cracker Larry

There is only one cure for that Joe

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 09, 2014 2:10 pm

by icelikkilinc

Cracker Larry wrote:There is only one cure for that Joe

Paint

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 09, 2014 3:13 pm

by ks8

I ran out of epoxy today. I got the shakes bad. Placed the order right away, but don't know how long I can hold out..... box it up Joel!

The love bugs are done here now CL, I think. Clean epoxy, mostly. The coming cold front ought to finish 'em up up there.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 09, 2014 4:21 pm

by Cracker Larry

Paint

Nobody wants it painted more than I do, but nobody wants to sand and paint it again less than I do either

Bugs are much thinner today, they should be gone real soon now.

I ran out of epoxy today. I got the shakes bad. Placed the order right away,

I got down to less than 1 1/2 gallons today and got the shakes too, into my last bag of wood flour also, just ordered more of both. That's almost as bad as running out of rum

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Oct 10, 2014 8:23 am

by BB Sig

Cracker Larry wrote:There is only one cure for that

My wife is worried about that cure while holding out hope she can hold off administering the cure until we can get a new house. For now, the treatment is daily doses of this forum. So many of us are afflicted by this disease and are only getting treatment for the symptoms and the actual cure (epoxy and saw dust) is elusive.

Thank you all for our boat building therapy treatments.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 16, 2014 9:50 am

by icelikkilinc

Come on Captain

still waiting for the paint

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 16, 2014 11:37 am

by Cracker Larry

Geez.....tough crowd

I spread some epoxy on the Parker yesterday and didn't get any bugs for the first time in 3 weeks. Weather is looking perfect for the next few days. Planning to paint tomorrow

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 16, 2014 1:45 pm

by Doc_Dyer

Cracker Larry wrote:Geez.....tough crowd

bet you thought it was gonna be me with my tapping finger smiley

I did think about it tho, just didn't get there fast enough

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 16, 2014 6:06 pm

by Cracker Larry

I figured that was coming

Got all the prep work done except for a final wipe down. Keep those fat fingers crossed that this goes well. Painting is the most intimidating part of a build to me. I'm not a great painter and paint is expensive. Between bugs, rain, wind blowing trash and leaves, too humid, not humid enough, too hot, too cold, neighbor driving up in a cloud of dust at the wrong time.... getting a great paint job is almost impossible. But I'm shooting for one tomorrow

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 16, 2014 7:08 pm

by Knottybuoyz

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 16, 2014 9:17 pm

by Cracker Larry

You too

All things in it's time. Yall just want to laugh at me when my paint is covered in bugs and dust

I'd rather wait 2 weeks for perfect conditions than spend 2 weeks doing it over again. In the meantime I've buried 1,000 bugs in the transom of the crab boat. Extra filler.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Oct 17, 2014 5:51 am

by Noles309

The bugs seem to be lasting longer than usual? We were up that way 3 weeks ago and they were out around Richmond hill.
Haven't seen many around the house this fall which is strange.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Oct 17, 2014 5:29 pm

by Cracker Larry

The paint gods smiled on me today. Patience payed. Perfect weather, 75 degrees, low humidity, calm wind, no bugs other than a few gnats and skeeters and I didn't even manage to do anything stupid. This EMC paint is sweet! Great coverage, easy to use, looks better by the minute as it drys

I only had one quart of the white, figured I would need more, but was able to coat the entire boat with one coat, and the console and transom with 2 coats, using only 16 ounces of paint. If I can get another coat on as good as this one is, it will be enough. It's easier to work with than Sterling and doesn't smell as bad either. The paint doesn't smell nearly as bad as the primer did either. I like it

The only problem with this paint is that it's so shiny it shows every tiny spot where my fairing wasn't perfect. Which is more than one. Oh well, it's real close but not perfect. But not too bad either and Kiwi Grip can hide a few sins.

If tomorrow goes as well as today did we can call the painting finished and start some Kiwi Grip and rigging and trimming.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Oct 17, 2014 5:57 pm

by terrulian

Good going.
That's a lot of rigging you've got to do but I trust you more than myself to do it. I'd be sure to drop a wrench on the new paint.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Oct 17, 2014 7:26 pm

by ks8

Way to go! Nice!

I just may be sold on switching to EMC when that day comes to repaint my boat.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Oct 17, 2014 8:13 pm

by Cracker Larry

That's a lot of rigging you've got to do

That's one of my favorite parts, I like rigging and wiring. Painting, not so much. I'll sleep better tonight after today's results, been worried more about the painting than anything else.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Oct 17, 2014 8:23 pm

by Noles309

That looks great

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Oct 17, 2014 8:32 pm

by willg

Beautiful!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Oct 18, 2014 1:58 pm

by Walkers Run

Will you Sand before the next coat?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Oct 18, 2014 2:26 pm

by Prarie Dog

Looking good Larry, I like the step in the front, the console the paint hell, I like it all. Nice work

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Oct 18, 2014 2:31 pm

by ks8

Complimentary sunglasses come with the boat?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Oct 18, 2014 8:11 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thank yall

Will you Sand before the next coat?

Yes I did. Sanded out yesterday's bugs and added todays

The instructions said you can re-coat after 4 hours, but if you wait longer than 12 you have to sand it again. So I sanded it all again with 220, cleaned up the dust, wiped it down and gave everything another coat. I've got 3 coats on the console and transom, looks great. As close to perfect as I'm going to get. Can start mounting equipment after a couple of days of drying time, going to give it some cure time. Everything else has 2 coats and I'm out of paint. The jury is still out whether we need another coat on the rest of it, I'll decide that in the light of day in the morning. Might be good, might not. If it isn't good I'll order another quart of paint. This paint really stretches a long ways. A quart of base gets mixed with with a half quart of activator and a half quart of reducer, netting 1/2 gallon per quart. That gave 2 coats on everything, 3 on the console and transom.

It was more windy and buggy today than yesterday was, I used the truck and car as wind breaks to cut down on blowing trash. Got quite a few gnats in the paint but they should clean up OK.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Oct 18, 2014 8:28 pm

by Cracker Larry

For some reason I can't post a picture tonight. Maybe it's because Mrs. Cracker is watching a movie on Netflix, it kills my bandwidth.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Oct 18, 2014 8:40 pm

by Cracker Larry

It was not possible to determine the dimensions of the image.

I can determine it, it is 800 X 600. What is the problem

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Oct 18, 2014 8:48 pm

by Cracker Larry

Not able to get pictures to work tonight. Might be me. Sorry. Link to latest...

http://gallery.bateau2.com/albums/userp ... 70_HDR.jpg

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Oct 18, 2014 9:13 pm

by TRC886

Looks GREAT, CL

Cracker Larry wrote:Not able to get pictures to work tonight. Might be me. Sorry. Link to latest...

http://gallery.bateau2.com/albums/userp ... 70_HDR.jpg

It's not you, I tried to post it for you and got the same results. Then I tried posting couple of my shots, pics I have posted previously, and still got the same results. This is something BWM needs to address.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Oct 19, 2014 1:39 am

by Doc_Dyer

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Oct 19, 2014 6:59 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Doc. Back in business. Going to pull the tape today and see how she looks under there.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Oct 19, 2014 9:44 am

by Hope2float

Larry as always great work and the paint looks sweet!
BUILD-ON!
Dave

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Oct 19, 2014 10:46 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Dave. Unfortunately it's going to need another coat, 2 doesn't quite get it. The areas that have 3 coats look great, but most of it only has 2 and is a little thin and splotchy in places. Plus some tree trash blew down right on the bow deck and mucked it up, and I tried to fix it with it partially cured and mucked it up even worse

Got to sand that out and repaint it. Nothing is easy.

I was going to clear coat the steering pod today but it is too windy, too much blowing trash, going to wait on that and do something else.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Oct 19, 2014 1:34 pm

by ks8

It will look good.

Can't wait to see her with the deck planking finished too.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Oct 19, 2014 5:39 pm

by icelikkilinc

Already looking good and we all know it's gonna look better captain

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Oct 19, 2014 8:31 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks yall. Yeah, it will look better or it ain't leaving here. Nothing we can't fix, just an aggravation. Note to self, write 100 times on the chalkboard, I WILL NOT PAINT ON WINDY DAYS!

Worked on some other things that I have a higher skill level with than paint. Tired of sanding. Very tired. Installed trim tabs and stern lifting rings permanently today. The transom and center console paint is good, so we can start rigging accessories on those.

These black tabs look great. We sent them out and had them coated. Wish we had sent the whole boat

Cracker Jr. and little Mrs. Cracker Jr. came over for a cookout this afternoon and we quit early. Got another bite out of the elephant though. One bite at a time.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Oct 20, 2014 8:17 am

by jorgepease

I'm glad I went with monstaliner, paint is not my forte either but yours is looking pretty darn good and am sure will be perfect by the time you are done.

Quick question, I think you have the Yamaha 70 also, can you tell me or post a pic, where the darn negative bolts too!! Spent the weekend rigging up cables and looking for pictures of a motor with the ground connected lol, have no clue!!

Thanks!!
Going to order a service manual today!!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Oct 20, 2014 8:32 am

by Cracker Larry

Quick question, I think you have the Yamaha 70 also, can you tell me or post a pic, where the darn negative bolts too!! Spent the weekend rigging up cables and looking for pictures of a motor with the ground connected lol,

I'll look at in a little while and let you know.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Oct 20, 2014 10:00 am

by Cracker Larry

OK Jorge, the ground cable connects to the top of the starter housing on the starboard side.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Oct 20, 2014 10:28 am

by jorgepease

Great thanks for that pic, my starter is on the other side, they moved stuff around quite a bit but hopefully the connection point is the same!!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Oct 20, 2014 12:24 pm

by Cracker Larry

Any of those starter mounting bolts would work equally as well.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Oct 20, 2014 6:47 pm

by jorgepease

ok thanks, will check it again this weekend!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Oct 24, 2014 7:52 pm

by Cracker Larry

Got the jack plate assembled and permanently installed today. Also received the EMC paint I needed so we can keep on building. Plan to install some pumps and such tomorrow too.

Don't use just a bolt and washer for an engine or jack plate mount, the transom will crush over time. I've repaired too many of them. Spread the load. $40 spent now will save $1,000 in 10 years. Seen it too many times.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Oct 25, 2014 9:48 am

by topwater

Larry did you have those backing plates made or did you buy them ?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Oct 25, 2014 9:58 am

by Cracker Larry

We bought them, John.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Oct 25, 2014 10:52 am

by topwater

Larry do you remember where you ordered them from

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Oct 25, 2014 11:08 am

by Cracker Larry

John, I order all that stuff through my buddy Raymond's wholesale supplier. They were CNC brand.

Bobs Machine also has them http://www.bobsmachine.com/Transom-Back ... 20000x.htm

Joel is a dealer for Bob's and I think can get a discounted price.

THC also makes them and most marine supply companies carry them.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Oct 26, 2014 8:46 am

by topwater

Thanks Larry.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Oct 27, 2014 8:38 pm

by Cracker Larry

I sanded the entire boat again today, inside and out by hand with 220 grit. I'm going to try to get 2 more coats of paint on her tomorrow, inside of the re-sanding window. Weather is looking great, calm wind, low bug count

That should finish up the painting. This EMC paint is real thin and needs several coats to build up the mill thickness.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Oct 27, 2014 10:56 pm

by Fishwater

Cracker Larry wrote:I sanded the entire boat again today, inside and out by hand with 220 grit.

That'll make a shoulder or two tired.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Oct 27, 2014 11:25 pm

by Cracker Larry

Won't need the gym today. I was working off crab boat frustrations

If all goes well, this may be the last time I have to sand this boat, except for some trim pieces

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 28, 2014 7:09 pm

by Cracker Larry

The painting went well today, much better than the Parker went yesterday

I kept my back turned to that beast. Got 2 more coats on the outside and inside, and one more on the console. That makes 4 on everything. She looks really good in most places but the front deck still has an issue. It might get 5 coats. We'll see how it looks tomorrow after it cures. Overall, very good, couple spots, not so much. That's always the way of it

Whatever that blue/gray spot is on the rear seat is a reflection from something, maybe the sky. Very shiny paint, it shows everything.

Building on...

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Oct 28, 2014 11:40 pm

by Fishwater

Looking good as always.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 29, 2014 8:34 am

by topwater

Looking good Larry

What kind of roller are you using for the paint ?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 29, 2014 9:16 am

by Rogerdog

Its a magic roller. Gotta be to get that shine.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 29, 2014 9:21 am

by terrulian

And I assume you're tipping so what kind of brush?
Looking good.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 29, 2014 9:25 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks. No tipping with this EMC paint, roller only. I'm using Whiz foam 4" door and cabinet rollers. A lot of them

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 29, 2014 9:35 am

by icelikkilinc

Really wanna see this baby all rigged up...

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 29, 2014 11:25 am

by tech_support

looking very nice

No tipping with this EMC paint, roller only. I'm using Whiz foam 4" door and cabinet rollers. A lot of them

I have not tried those. How did it lay out for you? I had better results the more paint I put on.

I used the yellow west system and our 4" "cigar" finish foam roller. The cigar style was handy to get paint into inside corners (under rubrail, around frames, etc), then I rolled the bigger panels with the west system roller. Basically cut in with the round cigar roller, then finish with yellow roller.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 29, 2014 1:03 pm

by Cracker Larry

I have not tried those. How did it lay out for you? I had better results the more paint I put on.

I used the yellow west system and our 4" "cigar" finish foam roller.

It worked really well in most places. but on the large flat surfaces I could still see roller marks after 4 coats. I wasn't happy with the front deck area at all, sanded it again this morning and re-painted using a full size roller. This gave much better results

Now I think I'm happy with it! Like all new paints, there is a learning curve.

And I get to paint the Parker again this afternoon, oh boy

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 29, 2014 1:16 pm

by ks8

One day, before I leave this world, I'd like something that I paint and want to look like that -- to look like that. Good job!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 29, 2014 1:26 pm

by icelikkilinc

ready to shave looking at it

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 29, 2014 7:15 pm

by blueflood

Hi Larry,

Uhhhh WOW

. OK comparing EMC and Pettit Easypoxy...which has the thumbs up ? That is if I can get EMC over the border. Some of them do not make it up so it will be a moot point

Excellent job Larry

Geezus the replies...sometimes for a laugh I read simply for the wisecracking humour here. Quite a few witty sailors out there

Marc

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 29, 2014 7:18 pm

by Cracker Larry

One day, before I leave this world, I'd like something that I paint and want to look like that -- to look like that.

The trick KS, is to wait for perfect weather, not too hot, not too cold, not too humid or too dry and not windy and not many bugs. Then you have to wait for the stars, moon and sun to get into proper alignment not close to a full or new moon. Then you look up and say a prayer. After that you hold your mouth just right and hope for the best

And you do it 5 times until you figure it out. I still ain't a painter.

This is the best I can make it. Likely to make it worse trying to make it better from here. Pulled half the tape to see how she looked under there. I think the boss will be happy with this. I'm calling her painting done

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 29, 2014 7:22 pm

by Aripeka Angler

Outstanding Captain

Beautiful work

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 29, 2014 8:03 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Marc and Richard.

OK comparing EMC and Pettit Easypoxy...which has the thumbs up ?

That's an apple to orange comparison. Easypoxy is a very good one part paint and been around a long time. It's easy to apply, no fumes to speak of, makes a fairly hard finish with reasonable gloss. It's also inexpensive, relatively speaking. I used it for 15 years on my charter boats and still use it on many repair projects when budget is an issue. Very good paint for the price IMO but it looks about half as good as EMC or Sterling, and will get chalky in a few years. Top end paints last for 10 years or more.

EMC is probably 3 times more expensive, has to be mixed with activators and reducers, you need to wear a good respirator when applying it, read the 10 pages of instructions several times, and get a little practice in application. But when you get it right, there is no comparison. Easypoxy is good, and easy. EMC and Sterling aren't as easy, but the finish is way superior and will last much longer.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 29, 2014 8:38 pm

by Cracker Larry

5 coats of Easypoxy on this Sea Ox..

4 on this Parker

5 coats of EMC ...

You be the judge

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 29, 2014 8:40 pm

by terrulian

Great work, CL, of course. We would be shocked if it weren't. Don't know about two-part paints. The learning curve and complication in addition to the extra cost...but I have time to make up my mind. What did you use on the brightwork?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Oct 29, 2014 8:48 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks. Right now the bright work has 3 coats of epoxy, but we will coat it with EMC clear coat for UV protection. It has a lot more bright work going on very soon

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 30, 2014 6:43 pm

by blueflood

Thank you Larry,

Hmmm and I intended to spray the exterior with EMC since after all the positive results from Joel and yourself. After reading the how-to I will decide but your roll-on is so impressive that why bother with the compressor and the mess

. I want to avoid spraying at any cost, this one sounds very specific. With the interior, roll-on Pettit works

Does it ?

Marc

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 30, 2014 7:37 pm

by jorgepease

Beautiful

… I'm still trying to figure out why the EMC clear doesn't brush out well. I need to give another coat still or switch product. Got me scared to use the matterhorn white now, I can't use the roller, it's all small areas I need to hit.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Oct 30, 2014 9:11 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks yall. Mrs Cracker told me yesterday she's never seen me take so long to build a boat. I told her I've never built a boat to this level either. This has been a learning experience for sure

… I'm still trying to figure out why the EMC clear doesn't brush out well.

I'm going to get my first experience with that this weekend, I'll let you know how it goes.

roll-on Pettit works Does it ?

It works, roll and tip it, not roll only.

Now that I've got momma elephant out of the way and this baby elephant finished painting, I'm putting her on the trailer in the morning

It's supposed to get cold this weekend, glad the epoxy and painting is finished.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Oct 31, 2014 8:41 am

by msujmccorm

The boat looks great Larry!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Oct 31, 2014 9:26 am

by tech_support

jorgepease wrote:Beautiful

… I'm still trying to figure out why the EMC clear doesn't brush out well. I need to give another coat still or switch product. Got me scared to use the matterhorn white now, I can't use the roller, it's all small areas I need to hit.

do not brush.

roll it with a more open cell foam roller. The ST clear is much thicker than the regular paint, you put it on THICK

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Oct 31, 2014 2:46 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Joel and Jeff. My best one yet for sure. Each one gets a little better

Got her on the trailer today, without scars on us or it. A neighbor came by and helped me with it and it didn't take us very long . Lifted her up with 2 come-alongs, backed the trailer under it and set her back down. The trailer cleared the build platform so we didn't even have to move it. Made a few adjustments to the trailer and she fits real good. The runners are too long, will need some trimming, but otherwise dang near perfect

I do stress during the minutes it is hanging by ropes, but ropes are strong and I worry too much. I just envision something going POP

It didn't happen, but I've seen it happen, so we are real careful.

Got No Excuse back to home where she belongs too, out of the weather.

Life was good today

I've had a very long week of working on boats. Going to let them rest, take my rifle and dog for a long walk in the swamp, then climb a tree and watch the sun go down until it's black dark. Then build a fire and cook whatever we get. Or eat a can of sardines and Vienna sausage with crackers. Probably won't pull a trigger. Time for a short mental break from boats. A night in the woods will do me good. I might walk home by midnight. Might be sunrise, might be later than that. Mrs. Cracker won't wait up for me. I'm going to howl at the moon. It is Halloween

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Oct 31, 2014 3:43 pm

by terrulian

Woa. You are certainly da man.

A well-deserved break and a beautiful result.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Oct 31, 2014 4:49 pm

by Noles309

She looks awesome on the trailer!!!

Dress warm its going to be cold tonight. Too cold for me and my thin blood

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Oct 31, 2014 5:31 pm

by ks8

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Nov 01, 2014 9:23 am

by Cracker Larry

Honey I'm home

Dog and I walked all the way to the river, collected some firewood, then made an evening stand. Let 2 deer walk, then a passel of pigs came to us. Perfect. I harvested a little porker about 30 pounds, barely big enough to make a football. Cleaned it and cooked the loins on the fire. Dog said it was good. Laid back in front of the fire and watched Orion hunt across the sky, spear at ready. Fell asleep until about 5 am. Temperature fell 50 degrees during the night, wind is blowing 40 mph and light snow/sleet flurries

Dang, I wasn't dressed for sleet! Cleaned up my camp spot, leave no trace, and walked 2 hours home in a mix of sleet and rain. Tree limbs crashing down everywhere in the woods with the wind blowing.

Cutting firewood today, it's 40 degrees right now and getting colder. Too early in the year for this!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Nov 01, 2014 10:33 am

by terrulian

What a great life.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Nov 01, 2014 3:40 pm

by Cracker Larry

Life is what you make of it. We all have choices. I choose to follow my soul, I'm just passing through. At least my wife is used to me

Cut and split a truck load of firewood in the rain this morning. Should have done this last week when it wasn't raining. Dang it's cold, high so far is 46 and it's snowing across the river. That's crazy for Nov. 1

Cape Man and Patti are coming Monday and spending the night. He's black powder hunting in the Virginia mountains right now. I bet it's cold up there

Really looking forward to seeing them again, it's been too long

And no, I haven't even touched a boat today and not going to.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Nov 01, 2014 4:51 pm

by willg

Larry, really beautiful paint job. Just beautiful.

If access and cost were the same between Sterling and the EMC you just applied, would you have a preference of one over the other?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Nov 02, 2014 8:14 am

by Cracker Larry

Thank you Will. I'm real happy with it.

Comparing EMC and Sterling is like comparing a Ferrari to a Jaguar, both are great. I would lean towards the EMC. It's a little easier to apply, not as finicky as Sterling and doesn't have to be tipped. The customer service, access to information and availability is better with EMC. And it's not quite as noxious. I had to wear a respirator rolling Sterling, it's VERY strong. Didn't need it with the EMC topcoat, but did need it for the primer, it was mighty strong smelling too. EMC also has better repair-ability. You can make spot repairs and they blend right in. With Sterling you'd have to repaint the entire thing to fix a spot.

So right now I lean towards EMC. The real test of course is how it holds up and looks in a few years. The Sterling on my boat is 7 years old and looks as good as the day I painted it. If the EMC holds up like that, it would be hands down the winner. Time will tell.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Nov 02, 2014 11:39 am

by Prarie Dog

Looks good Larry and sounds like a good hunt, that sleet would send me to the house in a hurry too

It looks a bit goofy but really helps when loading our GF18 to have a second set of guide poles to the front. The front end of these boats is light enough that a slight breeze pushes it around, couple that with not being able to see the bow stop and you get a sense of what loading one is like. It's easy with no wind or current, throw in anything and it's a PITA.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Nov 02, 2014 4:08 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Paul. I've been wanting to put an extra set of bunk boards forward on mine for a while. It has the same problem and all of our ramps have strong side currents.

Started filling holes today after it warmed up to a reasonable temperature. Had our first freeze last night, at least a month earlier than normal. Global warming is the the problem I'm told

Not filling holes with epoxy for a change, shiny stuff

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Nov 02, 2014 9:16 pm

by Cracker Larry

Went for another short walkabout this evening with my rifle. Cape Man is coming tomorrow and he wants to take home a full cooler of deer meat. He got a big fine buck yesterday in Virginia, but it will probably need to be ground into burger, sausage, and cube steaks to be fit to eat. Can't eat antlers

I got him a yearling this afternoon that will eat a lot better

She's hanging under the shed, mostly cleaned. Supposed to be 35 tonight so she'll be fine if the yotes don't get her. I'll spare you pictures.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 03, 2014 10:55 am

by Cracker Larry

Dang it's been a cold weekend in the South

I went out to finish cleaning Cape Man's deer and she is froze solid!

Was hoping to get the steering pod clear coated but it was too cold. Going to have to wait a couple days for warmer weather on that. Need to get it done before I can mount electronics. Supposed to be back near 80 by Wednesday, that's where it should be this time of year

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 03, 2014 11:01 am

by terrulian

Sure looks great with all that jewelry tying the last details together.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 03, 2014 1:37 pm

by ks8

terrulian wrote:Sure looks great with all that jewelry tying the last details together.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 03, 2014 2:04 pm

by jorgepease

Yeah that is a boat you hang on to!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 03, 2014 2:49 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks yall

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 03, 2014 6:10 pm

by wadestep

Cracker Larry wrote:Dang it's been a cold weekend in the South I went out to finish cleaning Cape Man's deer and she is froze solid!

That's too funny. I was out looking for deer but didn't have your luck. I did, however, freeze myself almost as much as that deer. Camping in sub-freezing weather is for the birds... Woke up and the dog couldn't get water- the bowl was frozen over! And that's in Florida - no wonder your deer froze.
wade

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 04, 2014 4:26 am

by california kid

Very nice job!!! but one question what were the molds for ,where did they go on the boat

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 04, 2014 8:40 am

by Cracker Larry

Those molds are frame templates for a FS18, saving them for the next build.

We had a great visit and catch up with Cape Man and Patti, I do love those guys

Built a big fire, had some cocktails or 3, a bottle of wine or 2, a bottle of good champagne to toast their wedding...slept real good

Still freezing outside. As soon as it warms up a little, dog and I are going to go vote to throw the bums out

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 04, 2014 10:02 am

by Noles309

CL.
Where did you get the bow stop for the trailer? I'm about ready to set mine up for the GF16 and it has a roller there now.
Also, do you just use 2 bunks or are there any other supports in the bow area?
Thanks

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 04, 2014 11:22 am

by Cracker Larry

The trailer has 3 bunks, one down the center and one under each stringer. The bow stop was made by the trailer builder. We had the trailer custom built for the boat in St. Petersburg, sent them a copy of the drawings and they made it fit like a glove.

With my GF16 I used 2 bunks and put a cross support under the bow. Made it myself.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 04, 2014 11:40 am

by Noles309

Thank you for the info. That is one good looking trailer.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 04, 2014 12:25 pm

by Rogerdog

Page 105 of the thread has a couple of photos of the trailer without the boat.

The trailer came from Owens and Sons (727) 323-1088. The trailer was competitively priced, and it is worth a call to them just to talk with either of the two guys who own the place. Between the airboats and the antique cars (mostly "befores"), they are an untapped reality TV show.

And, they are extremely knowledgeable about trailers.

Your GFF16 is looking great.

Wayne

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Nov 05, 2014 5:54 pm

by Cracker Larry

Took a break for a couple of days, bad weather, Cape Man's visit, neighbor died and we went to the funeral home last night and funeral this morning. Then got back on it. Nice and warm this afternoon. Pulled the rest of the tape on the starboard side and inside. I left it on too long and it was tedious, but came off clean with some persuasion.

Pulled the painting tape off the steering pod, then re-taped it the other way for clear coating. Got 2 coats of EMC on that. This stuff is nice

I'll sand it in the morning then 2 more coats, 4 hours apart.

Did some other little things too. Building on

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Nov 05, 2014 6:35 pm

by jorgepease

which clear coat are you using, I didn't know one was thicker than the other, I think I need the thin stuff!

oh and Looks Great as Always!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Nov 05, 2014 8:42 pm

by Cracker Larry

There is a thick and a thin EMC clear. I've got both. I will check in the morning and give you the product number of what I used. Which ever it is, I couldn't ask for a better finish with a foam roller

Any problems in this finish is due to the painter and the environment, not the paint. This stuff is good.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 06, 2014 8:47 am

by Doc_Dyer

Cracker Larry wrote: on Dec 11 2013

how bout a new pic with the cheese trays in in floor
still decided on thin white?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 06, 2014 9:14 am

by Cracker Larry

Coming soon Doc

Yeps, still going with white seams.

One of the cheese trays is now a bedside table in my house, the boss took the other 2 home for tables or cheese trays at his.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 06, 2014 1:12 pm

by jorgepease

Cracker Larry wrote:There is a thick and a thin EMC clear. I've got both. I will check in the morning and give you the product number of what I used. Which ever it is, I couldn't ask for a better finish with a foam roller Any problems in this finish is due to the painter and the environment, not the paint. This stuff is good.

Thanks

... funny I wonder why its not mentioned on the order page. I see no differences except satin or gloss

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 06, 2014 1:35 pm

by tech_support

they are too separate products clear/satin is a choice in the normal topcoat. The "thick" clear coat is listed separately, its call ST Gloss...

http://boatbuildercentral.com/proddetai ... T_GLOSS_QT

The thick stuff is super nice. For coating plain wood, the ST is the way to go. To coat epoxy or add clear over paint, then the normal clear/gloss version of the topcoat is the way to go

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 06, 2014 1:52 pm

by jorgepease

shine wrote:they are too separate products clear/satin is a choice in the normal topcoat. The "thick" clear coat is listed separately, its call ST Gloss...

http://boatbuildercentral.com/proddetai ... T_GLOSS_QT

The thick stuff is super nice. For coating plain wood, the ST is the way to go. To coat epoxy or add clear over paint, then the normal clear/gloss version of the topcoat is the way to go

Thanks, I brushed, it does not brush well, does not flow at all. I will try roller next

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 06, 2014 5:11 pm

by Cracker Larry

Jorge, I used the 99-ST-Gloss. I think it is the thicker coating. I also have 99-BA1 Clear Gloss. Haven't used that. It did great with a foam roller and a foam brush.

Sanded the pod again this morning with 320, wiped it down with lacquer thinner and gave it 2 more coats, 4 hours apart. I couldn't ask for better results.

Also sanded, cleaned and put 2 coats on the ipe strips we are putting over the rub rails. All I can say about them is WOW! Rogerdog did a beautiful job of ripping them and rounding them over. Made my life easier

I used a throw away foam brush on these. It worked great.

Did some plumbing work between coats. Installed the bait well pump and discovered that the bait tank inlet fitting interfered with a rod holder. Seems like no matter how hard I try to plan things out, one thing gets in the way of another

Lot of stuff going on in here. Had to relocate the inlet fitting, plug the hole, drill a new one, fill it.....nothing is easy. Daddy never said it would be

Also got the gas fill fitting permanently installed. I wanted it centered with everything else, but Speedy Tanks didn't put it where I drew it to be. First time I've ever seen them mess up, but we can live with it I reckon

And a few other little things. Was hoping for one more coat of clear today, but the wind came up, cold front is moving through, and I already wrote 100 times on the chalk board that I will not paint on windy days

Getting this elephant chewed down to one foot now, one bite at a time

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 06, 2014 7:38 pm

by justin_dwyer

Looks Awesome Cracker, definitely a high quality boat right there!!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 06, 2014 8:56 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Justin. No expense or efforts have been spared on this one.. I wouldn't have worked this hard if it were mine. She is going to be really sweet when finished. Whenever that is

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 06, 2014 9:01 pm

by justin_dwyer

I've been thinking about doing a similar flooring (aka cheese boards), so pretty keen to see how that comes up.

Keep up the great work!!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Nov 07, 2014 8:23 am

by tcason

Also sanded, cleaned and put 2 coats on the ipe strips we are putting over the rub rails.

What did you first coat the rub rails with epoxy or EMC "varnish".

I have been using two coats of epoxy on bare wood with 3 to 5 coats of varnish over the "base" epoxy - sanding between coats.

Just wondering if that is what you did or are you going from bare wood straight to "varnish"?

Still learning from the "master" builder.............................

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Nov 07, 2014 9:08 am

by Cracker Larry

It depends on what type of wood. The ipe will never rot, even unfinished, so I used the EMC directly on bare wood. On the cypress pod and deck boards I first coat with epoxy, although it probably doesn't need it. On plywood, 2-3 coats of epoxy before the varnish.

Got to make another Lowes run this morning so I can carry on. Out of rollers, roller trays, masking tape, mixing sticks....again.

I'm going to put one more coat on the pod, then I think I'll start masking for Kiwi Grip on the decks. I'd like to get all the sloppy stuff finished before installing the wood trim. KG is some sloppy, splattery stuff!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Nov 07, 2014 10:26 am

by Noles309

Cracker Larry wrote: Got to make another Lowes run this morning so I can carry on. Out of rollers, roller trays, masking tape, mixing sticks....again.

I'm going to put one more coat on the pod, then I think I'll start masking for Kiwi Grip on the decks. I'd like to get all the sloppy stuff finished before installing the wood trim. KG is some sloppy, splattery stuff!

Having done that yesterday I can testify to that. I'm so glad I masked everything off with paper.....I almost didn't

I also cut it down to the wire on supplies. I have about 5 feet of masking tape left, no masking paper, no paper towels and four pairs of gloves.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Nov 07, 2014 12:03 pm

by Cracker Larry

$88 dollars later and I'm re-supplied

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Nov 08, 2014 10:57 am

by Prarie Dog

Larry, could you ask the guy that owns that boat to let me know his schedule so I don't have the Poppin' Cork anywhere near that part of the country. We're thinking of renaming ours "Ugly Dawg".

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Nov 08, 2014 2:27 pm

by Fuzz

Larry as many othes have said you are building a work of art! First thing I do each morning is check this site to see any new postings. I would love to see the boat in person. Small problem with that, it would be a 5000 mile trip, but might be worth it.

I have been thinking there needs to be two boat sections.
1.Works of art.
2. Boats built by mear mortals.

Fuzz

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Nov 08, 2014 7:41 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Fuzz, but trust me, I am mortal and make plenty of mistakes, I just keep doing them over until I'm happy. My best trait is stubbornness, I don't quit

Almost killed myself yesterday I think, overdosed on clear coat fumes. They haven't been bothering me at all working in the open, but maybe there is a cumulative effect of working with it every day for a week. I got really dizzy, then really sick to my stomach from both ends, almost passed out, made it to the house, almost called 911. Got bad sick, wasn't right again for 18 hours. note to self... wear respirator from now on, don't want to repeat that

On the plus side, I did get the steering pod finished and I'm still on the green side of the grass

6 coats is beautiful and as close to perfect as this mortal can do. Done.

Was wanting to Kiwi-Grip but the weather turned too cold for that, so finished up the bait tank plumbing, installed the bilge pump and float switch...Dirty in here, need to clean it before I take pictures..

Got all the switches situated on the 2 Contura switch panels. I replaced several of the standard on/off switches with 4 dimmer switches, a double pole double throw for nav lights, a momentary contact for horn..something else, Rogerdog had labeled where he wanted everything so got the right switches in the right holes and ready to mount.

And a few more things...a compass to know where I'm heading next, and 2 drink holders to get us there

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Nov 08, 2014 8:00 pm

by terrulian

Larry, dude, take care of yourself!!
Probably like most of us, I did tons of work in my younger days, sanding wood, fiberglass, filler, and bottom paint, never giving a thought to my health and never wearing a mask because I was invincible. Then one day after working in the shop, all of a sudden I couldn't breathe too well and came down with a chronic smoker's cough, though I don't smoke. Like the old blues song, doctor said I may get better but I'll never get well. That was twenty years ago, and the cough is still there. Don't be playin' with this stuff.

It's kind of awkward being your mother.

PS Beautiful work.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Nov 09, 2014 9:52 am

by Cracker Larry

Mothers can be a good thing sometimes

Almost back to normal now, I think. Won't repeat that mistake. Staying away from paint fumes for a few days.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Nov 09, 2014 10:02 am

by ks8

Especially if re-hydrating with rum or other favorite fermented formulation .... 1 + 1 = 100.

Way way back, in the eigth or ninth grade I think, print shop, I had a little mini-flu going on. Manageable by itself. The solvents used for the photo silk-screen process and cleanup didn't usually bother me, but with the mini-flu, and being rundown abit, it was a knockout punch. Awkward to have the room go gray while leaning on a shop bench and listening to the lecture of the process while the lecture turned into *blurby blurb wee-oooow whaka dooesy muika loo...*. That's about when I said, (I think), *I'm leaving now....*.

Respirators in print shop? This was the 70's. Next year, when we took electric shop and made hotplates with nichrome wire and asbestos board and a bandsaw to cut the asbestos board, it was snowing asbestos dust and flakes in the shop. Early winter. We were all white with asbestos snow all over us, thick dust and flakes, slipping on it on the floor, sneezing asbestos, coughing it up, .... but we did have safety glasses while working the bandsaw, of course.

Nothing like an activated charcoal organic vapor cartridge in the respirator when working with those solvents up close all day. Very glad for your recovery.

I can't wait to see that Helm station finished on that box.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Nov 09, 2014 5:15 pm

by Cracker Larry

Yeah, I've done all that. From asbestos to bottom paint. It's a wonder we lived through childhood, much less early work life. We used to play with liquid mercury in high school too. Roll it around in our hands, drop it on the floor. They would probably evacuate the school if that happened today. Going to wear that charcoal mask the next time I use this clear coat though, that's a fact

Building on. Fun stuff today. Still too cool for good painting or gluing, so worked more on the console. Trying to get everything ready necessary to run and test the engine, so we can go pick that up in Charleston. Glad they are patient

Almost there.

This is all permanently mounted now. Each hole took some trimming, fine tuning and re-drilling because of fairing compound, primer and paint. All sealed up again. Should get everything else mounted tomorrow.

Got a lot of stuff to figure out how to fit inside and make work.

I'll get it. One bite at a time

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Nov 09, 2014 5:24 pm

by terrulian

Nice and fancy. Lots of controls, like the Starship Enterprise. The three big holes in the panel are for a fishfinder and chartplotter and VHF? Top guages a tach and temp?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Nov 09, 2014 5:44 pm

by Cracker Larry

Sorry, light was getting dim, the pictures suck. The 2 gauges are Yamaha multi-funtion displays. They replace about 8 individual gauges between the 2 of them.

Here is the initial layout from months ago... plan has been slow coming together, but it will

Plotter/fish finder, VHF, stereo and speakers yet to install on the console. And a horn. And a lot of stuff inside the console!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Nov 09, 2014 7:00 pm

by terrulian

Man, you're going to need a pilot's license to run that thing!
And it goes fast...what a toy! Your client has got it good.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Nov 09, 2014 7:58 pm

by Cracker Larry

Your client has got it good.

So do I. Couldn't ask for a better client

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Nov 09, 2014 8:38 pm

by Cracker Larry

Man, you're going to need a pilot's license to run that thing!

At least a check out flight, or 2

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Nov 09, 2014 8:47 pm

by justin_dwyer

Starting to look like the Queen Mary 2 there Cracker, as much functionality in a smaller craft

Looks awesome!!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 10, 2014 5:45 pm

by Cracker Larry

Man, you're going to need a pilot's license to run that thing!

Almost need one just to run the stereo system

Dang, Sirius radio, Pandora, Bluetooth, cell phone interface to make phone calls over the stereo, Ipod, Iphone, Ipad, USB interfaces...And the GPS interfaces with the radio and the trolling motor...this will be a challenge making it all work right. Wiring it all will be fun

It takes days just to read all the instruction manuals

Got almost everything installed on the console now, just the horn remains I think. Filled most of the holes anyway.

The stereo system was the biggest challenge, but figured it out finally. It is a Kenwood stereo mounted in a Jenson waterproof housing. Worked out real nice

Console speakers and vent plates installed..

Engine rigging tube installed. I think we could rig 3 with this tube, it's a little long yet

Couple more for Rogerdog..

It warmed up a bit today, going to be warmer tomorrow. Planning on Kiwi-Grip. We'll see.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 10, 2014 5:52 pm

by peter-curacao

Except for the you know what

She's a Master piece Larry, you outdid yourself on this one!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 10, 2014 5:53 pm

by BarraMan

Larry

Where did you source the engine controls rigging tube?

Cheers

Lee

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 10, 2014 5:54 pm

by Cracker Larry

Except for the you know what

Go ahead and say it mi amigo. Cigar box

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 10, 2014 5:58 pm

by Cracker Larry

Lee, I'm not sure where that stuff came from. The boss bought it and had it sent to me. The rigging tube and fitting are both Yamaha. Rogerdog will probably answer that.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 10, 2014 6:15 pm

by peter-curacao

BarraMan wrote:Where did you source the engine controls rigging tube?

Lee almost every marine shop sells tubing like that including the matching deck coupler pieces

Cracker Larry wrote:
Except for the you know what
Go ahead and say it mi amigo. Cigar box

Nah I won't

But I tell you, she will attract a certain type of women!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 10, 2014 6:55 pm

by bigtalljv

This was the most linked site that I found for rigging tubes. Not sure if they are the only one but they come up a lot and all the other branded stuff looks a lot like theirs.

http://www.thmarine.com/products/Riggin ... ne-Rigging

The bulkhead strain relief looks shockingly similar to what came on my teleflex hydraulic hoses.

Jason

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 10, 2014 8:04 pm

by Cracker Larry

But I tell you, she will attract a certain type of women!

Monica Lewinsky comes to mind

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 10, 2014 8:59 pm

by Willc

Great job, Larry! I've got potentially stupid question about that cool rigging tube. Will you use a priming bulb for the fuel line? If the line goes in the rigging tube, where do you put the bulb? I've been wondering about this for years

Thanks,
Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 10, 2014 9:15 pm

by Rogerdog

The metal flange came from Boatstoreusa.com. It is T-H Marine RG-1CP-DP 2 Rigging Flange chrome plates. The texture of that flange is a little off, but it is the only one I could find.

The rigging tube came from Shipyard Island Marine -- SimYamaha.com. Yamaha rigging seems to be purposefully difficult for non-Yamaha dealers/techs to understand, and there are any number of different ways to connect the controls and gauges to the engine outputs. Andy Jr. at SimYamaha is an absolute master when it comes to explaining different options and helping to order the required parts. I have talked to him several times, and he is a great resource. Very patient.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 10, 2014 10:01 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:
But I tell you, she will attract a certain type of women!
Monica Lewinsky comes to mind

ah the picture spoke to you I suppose?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 10, 2014 10:21 pm

by justin_dwyer

Willc wrote: Will you use a priming bulb for the fuel line? If the line goes in the rigging tube, where do you put the bulb? I've been wondering about this for years

Will, the line goes through the rigging tube and into the hull somewhere accessible to meet the fuel filter, the priming bulb is usually between the filter and the end of the rigging tube.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 11, 2014 7:20 am

by Cracker Larry

Yes, the primer bulb will be inside the motor well, before the line enters the rigging tube.

The boss is coming by today for inspection, I better get ready

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 11, 2014 8:13 am

by Walkers Run

Justin
You can use one of these if you want to put the primer bulb in the motor well.

http://www.thmarine.com/products/Riggin ... Hose-Union

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 11, 2014 9:18 am

by icelikkilinc

Looking really good captain..

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 11, 2014 9:46 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks all. Hope the boss thinks so too!

ah the picture spoke to you I suppose?

I didn't even need the picture

I know you

Neat photoshop though.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Nov 11, 2014 10:17 pm

by Cracker Larry

Rogerdog came down today and I put him to work, he ain't going to stand around and watch me have all the fun by myself

We masked and sanded and Kiwi Gripped the rear seat and front deck. Now he is a KG expert and he's pretty good with a razor knife too. They came out real nice. No pictures yet, he didn't leave until dark and I didn't take any. Also got the horn mounted and the trim tab gyroscope thingy for the auto-tab controller installed. Still plenty left to do, but not nearly as much as there was.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Nov 12, 2014 5:21 pm

by Cracker Larry

Kiwi Grip

I extended 6 flex tubes, with pull strings and wire into the upper console. Neatened it up good. Then sprayed the lower console area with a Prevail sprayer and EMC paint. It worked like a charm, did a real nice job. You could paint the whole boat with a few of these. One more coat under there tomorrow will finish that up..then I have to Kiwi Grip the bottom of it. Need to get that done tomorrow also before the weather turns cold again.

Pulled a few more wires through the chase tubes..

I can't wait to see that Helm station finished on that box

Me either. I've got to show you this trim plate for the steering pod. It will mount flush under the wheel on Peter's cigar box

The center hole is for the steering wheel shaft. Rogerdog bought a 1/4 X 7" stainless disk, sent it to Raymond for a mirror finish polish, then sent it to an engraver for laser engraving

Then he drilled the center hole and I cleaned up the burrs with a Dremel tool. It's like looking into a mirror, you can see the bottom of my roof really well

Hard to take a picture of it,

Building on

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Nov 12, 2014 6:31 pm

by wadestep

That's a really neat touch. It will stand out in a classy way.
wade

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Nov 12, 2014 7:17 pm

by Joe H

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Nov 12, 2014 7:18 pm

by Walkers Run

Cracker Larry wrote:
It's like looking into a mirror, you can see the bottom of my roof really well

Building on

I like that a lot, very nice touch. Boat looks great

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Nov 12, 2014 7:25 pm

by Cracker Larry

Funny coincidence. Soleil in French means Sun. Mrs. Cracker and I have had 2 sail boats named Sunshine, 35 years ago

We lived on one for many months, it was only 21' long, sometimes we got stuck for days. All over. Sometimes didn't know what country we were in and didn't care. GPS and LORAN weren't invented yet. Sometimes ate a lot of oysters

The tide goes out, the tide comes in. I'm lucky she likes oysters

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Nov 12, 2014 9:17 pm

by terrulian

Great shots, Larry

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 13, 2014 3:23 pm

by willg

That steering trim plate is a nice nod to your beautiful Cracker craftsmanship, Larry. It's been fun to see how much Rogerdog has appreciated your work.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 13, 2014 4:19 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote: I've got to show you this trim plate for the steering pod. It will mount flush under the wheel on Peter's cigar box The center hole is for the steering wheel shaft. Rogerdog bought a 1/4 X 7" stainless disk, sent it to Raymond for a mirror finish polish, then sent it to an engraver for laser engraving Then he drilled the center hole and I cleaned up the burrs with a Dremel tool. It's like looking into a mirror, you can see the bottom of my roof really well

Now that's really cool Larry

Sun is that the name of the boat?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 13, 2014 5:37 pm

by Rogerdog

Sun is the name of the boat.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 13, 2014 7:58 pm

by Cracker Larry

We took advantage of the last warm day for a week. Arctic blast is coming tonight. Got the console bottom Kiwi Gripped and the insides sprayed with 2 more coats of EMC. The Prevail sprayer works like a champ for spraying this paint. Very cool, and easy. Wear a mask

Also made a test panel from a scrap piece of plywood, sanded, 2 coats of epoxy, sanded, 3 coats of EMC topcoat, 1 rolled, 2 sprayed. Going to mask it off and test some EMC clear coat with Grip Tex non-skid on it. We''ll see how it looks and how it feels. I'd rather test it off the boat.

It's going to get cold for the next few days, glad I've got most of the painting finished. Only thing left for finishing is clear coating the sole and wood trim. And non-skid. I'll work on the rigging and wiring until it warms up again.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Nov 14, 2014 9:56 am

by crackedconch

That's a nice touch!! Can't wait to see the finished product!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Nov 14, 2014 10:15 am

by Cracker Larry

Thank ya sir.

No boat work today, it's too cold and I need a break. Going to take Mrs. Cracker, Cracker junior and Mrs. Cracker junior out for sushi lunch and spend the day with the family

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Nov 14, 2014 12:16 pm

by peter-curacao

Buen provecho have fun say hi to Dori from us

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 17, 2014 11:29 am

by Cracker Larry

Buen provecho have fun say hi to Dori from us

It did us all plenty of good

Dori says hi to you and Gloria. Wished you could have joined us for the sushi, we ate a whole bridge. Of course, I've seen you do that by yourself

Thanks again too for pushing me on that pod and flush mounting the steering head. It was a lot of extra work, but worth it in results. This is much better than it would have been otherwise

Remote hydraulic fill..

Pouring down rain now, severe thunderstorm warnings, high wind warnings, tornado warnings, flash flood warning, freeze warnings..,lovely

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 17, 2014 12:44 pm

by tech_support

that helm.... very slick

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 17, 2014 1:40 pm

by peter-curacao

shine wrote:that helm.... very slick

Yep that saved the day* (*cigar box)

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 17, 2014 4:26 pm

by ks8

Remote hydraulic fill....

The *Cracker Built* touch.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 17, 2014 5:08 pm

by Cracker Larry

Remote hydraulic fill....

That was the hardest part of the whole thing. This steering pump was made to surface mount, with the fill on the housing. I had to make it flush mount, and put the fill somewhere else, because it is hidden inside the cigar box. But hooking it up inside the box took some thinking and a lot of Dremel tool work. It only took about an extra month of work to make it all work, but it works. Whatever it takes

Storm line has passed now, no hail, no tornadoes, no flash floods, just some rain and wind. Freeze is coming for sure though. Got firewood stacked under the porch. Crazy, coldest November on record. Already burned a truck load of fire wood. Got to cut more again. This is February weather, we are usually in the 70's now in November. Must be global warming to blame

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 17, 2014 5:18 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:
Remote hydraulic fill....
That was the hardest part of the whole thing. This steering pump was made to surface mount, with the fill on the housing. I had to make it flush mount,

Larry didn't you use the kit seastar makes special for this purpose?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 17, 2014 5:30 pm

by Cracker Larry

Yes, exactly. The problem was access and clearance. The face of the pod is almost 2" thick, so I had to rout out a spot for the pipe fittings from the inside with a Dremel, and a place to get my fingers in there to hook it up, it's hard to explain. It would have been a lot easier to start with this goal in mind and routed it on the work bench first, or started with a flush mount helm. Adapt and overcome

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 17, 2014 5:43 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote: Adapt and overcome

Yes you did, with flying colors

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 17, 2014 7:56 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks. You are the one who started this, glad you are happy

I am

I think the boss is too, which is the most important thing

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Nov 17, 2014 8:25 pm

by Cracker Larry

This had to be mounted and hooked up from the inside, the face of the pump aligns flush to the face of the helm pod. The hole in the pod is the same size as the outer face of the helm pump, but the pipe fittings and hose extend almost to the face from the inside, so it took quite a bit of fitting in a tight area. Got it done to satisfaction

I'll show some pictures of the inside when it warms up again. I might not leave the house for the next 2 days, based on the weather report

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Nov 19, 2014 8:52 am

by blueflood

Hi Larry,

Hmmm, based on today's weather report, you may never leave the house

. Holy @#%^&* in Buffalo, NY

Something is definately a bit skewed - we should be getting that, but barely anything on the ground

Marc

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Nov 19, 2014 8:56 am

by wegcagle

Looking great C.L. I've been on a bit of a hiatus as I finally just took my LAST certification exam.....another $3800 to the man

You've been kicking butt this elephant's butt

Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Nov 19, 2014 9:18 am

by Cracker Larry

Hmmm, based on today's weather report, you may never leave the house .

If I wasn't running low on firewood, I might not! 19 degrees F this morning

Dang it, just can't get a break from crappy weather. I only need 2 or 3 weeks of decent weather to finish up this boat.

Congrats of the final certification exam Will

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Nov 19, 2014 12:06 pm

by ks8

19 F ?! Killing off the bugs for the final floor coats.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Nov 19, 2014 4:00 pm

by Cracker Larry

Yeah, I think the bug problem is over anyway. Had heat lamps on my paints and epoxy for the last 2 nights so they wouldn't freeze. Did leave the house today, went up to Raymond's, picked up some parts and hung out in his heated shop for a while. Came home, started a pot of chili and built a fire

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Nov 19, 2014 9:45 pm

by ks8

Cracker Larry wrote:Came home, started a pot of chili and built a fire

Maybe that's part of what cold nights are for? Or at least, its one way of turning a bad thing, for good.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Nov 19, 2014 10:40 pm

by Cracker Larry

Maybe that's part of what cold nights are for? Or at least, its one way of turning a bad thing, for good.

That is exactly right. It's all in the perspective. Raymond and I talked about that today. We always talk about life. Not only is he a master craftsman, but a very good friend and philosopher. He always picks me up when I stumble, I try to do the same.

"The sun, the trees and the rivers never say that life is tough". The sun never says to the earth "you owe me". That beautiful yellow fall silver maple leaf is a product of hot and cold, wet and dry, wind and calm, bad and good, just like us, it makes the best of what it gets and it needs it all for the finished product. Balance

A mere 24 degrees now, got a fire going and a dog warming my blankets, things could be worse

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 20, 2014 2:30 pm

by Cannonball

Cracker someday someody is going to write the next almanac using your thread for historical weather information in Georgia.

Enjoying watching that boat come together. I'm ready to see that swanky floor get laid up. Looking good...

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 20, 2014 5:40 pm

by Cracker Larry

I manned up this afternoon, put on 5 layers of clothes and my insulated jeans, installed the trim tab pump, dang it's getting tight in that space already. Pulled the trim tab wiring harness to the console, along with an extra pull string. Started hooking that up. Also replaced the chrome rigging tube flange with a black one. Didn't like the way the chrome plated one looked so changed it to black. Glad I put it down with 4200 and not 5200, it was SOB to remove it. Did some other little things too. No pictures today.

Building on. Time to build another fire now

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 20, 2014 5:47 pm

by Knottybuoyz

As we say up here in the Great White Frozen North, Suck it up Buttercup! -5C (23 F) and we were sanding rock hard epoxy yesterday!

In our T-Shirts & Short Pants no less!

Just kidding Larry. Just think, in 9 months there'll be a whole new generation of Cracker Baby boat builders born way down south.

Keep the home fires burning and stay warm my frosty friend!

Cheers!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 20, 2014 7:47 pm

by gstanfield

The best thing for cold days is sitting in my comfy chair by a nice warm fire, reading a good book and sipping some 18 yr old scotch. (or other good beverage, this year I'm on a Scotch kick)

Stay warm Cracker, the boat is looking great as always.

G

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Nov 21, 2014 9:29 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks yall. Don't be a stranger George

Just think, in 9 months there'll be a whole new generation of Cracker Baby boat builders born way down south.

Probably so, but not this Cracker

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Nov 21, 2014 11:55 am

by Fuzz

Just think, in 9 months there'll be a whole new generation of Cracker Baby boat builders born way down south.

Probably so, but not this Cracker

[/quote]

Growing up in Alaska in the 60s is was easy to look at the school class size and tell the cold winters.

Sorry it is cold there and slowing down your boat work. Good thing for us when it is cold there it is warm here. Good trade for us

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Nov 21, 2014 6:06 pm

by Cracker Larry

Much better today, it warmed up pretty nice

Finished up the trim tab install, all wires connected to the rocker switch panel, rocker switch connected to ATC brains, pump harness connected to ATC brains, ATC control unit wired to the brain box, relay box mounted and harness wired to it, and another from it to the pump, both hydraulic lines installed from the pump to the tabs and hooked up on both ends. Lot of wires! Took longer than I figured it would. Everything does. Only thing left to do with the tabs is fill it with fluid, get some power to it and bleed and test it.

My therapist called and told me that we both needed to take off tomorrow and go fishing. So I'm meeting Raymond at the boat ramp in the morning

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Nov 21, 2014 11:29 pm

by Rogerdog

in 9 months there'll be a whole new generation of Cracker Baby boat builders born way down south.

Congratulations to you and Dori. I hope I win the birth day pool!

Catch em up Craker Man.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Nov 22, 2014 7:20 am

by Cracker Larry

My strings are tied

Gone fishing.....

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Nov 22, 2014 8:55 am

by terrulian

Honestly, CL, I'm glad to see that you're taking some time off. Reading your updates day after day is inspiring, but at the same time reminds me that I am an inferior human being

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Nov 22, 2014 5:54 pm

by Cracker Larry

No you aren't

My therapist was right, we needed that bad. We didn't go fishing today, we went catching

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Nov 26, 2014 8:31 am

by Cracker Larry

Not a lot to report this week except bad weather, it's been pouring rain non-stop since Saturday afternoon and it's still raining!

Been working on the console wiring in the rain as best I could, installed all the dimmers and began wiring those, installed and partially wired the positive and negative buss, installed and wired main breaker, getting things ready to connect some power and start testing circuits. Moving slow, but still moving forward. Sure has been a nasty fall for weather.

Hope everyone has a happy and safe Thanksgiving

Big family feast planned here. Glad I don't have to travel anywhere.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Nov 26, 2014 8:55 am

by cottontop

Fishing trip was very successful it appears. A friend from my former job contacted me about going fishing at the Canaveral National Seashore, in Cocoa, Fl next weekend. I am jumping at the chance to fish, eat well, drink a few beers, and talk(bs) a little. The boat is looking great. Shella and I wish you, Mrs. Cracker, and your family a wonderful Thanksgiving. Cottontop

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Nov 26, 2014 9:22 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks John, same to yall

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Nov 26, 2014 9:28 am

by ks8

Getting wiring done sure counts.

With the rain yesterday, and the wind last night, I thought I was going to wake up and see a yellow brick road at the front door, with munchkin officials to greet me.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Nov 26, 2014 10:57 pm

by callyb

Cracker Larry wrote:Thanks John, same to yall

Happy Thanksgiving Larry and Dori. I Love you both like family.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Nov 27, 2014 7:33 am

by Cracker Larry

Happy Thanksgiving Carl! Same from Dori! We sure would like to see you again, come back down and we'll eat some more rocks

(oysters)

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Nov 28, 2014 4:47 pm

by Cracker Larry

This is what dog and I did today. He is exhausted and I don't need to go to the gym.

Dang this cold weather. Hope to get back to boat building tomorrow.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Nov 28, 2014 5:50 pm

by peter-curacao

He Dexter

that ax is huge man

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Nov 29, 2014 9:00 pm

by Cracker Larry

Still wiring. Going to be wiring for a while yet. Lot of wires. Lot of wiring diagrams and instruction manuals spread everywhere too. Getting it done, one circuit at a time.

Took a cushion off No Excuse and put it on Soliel, so my bony butt would have a soft place to sit while I wire

It still aint warm, but it's tolerable. Building on.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Nov 30, 2014 5:06 am

by blueflood

Hi Larry,

The finish line is just around the corner ! That is one involved electrical system; looks like double redundancy on everything.

Marc

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Nov 30, 2014 8:11 am

by terrulian

Dang that's some neat work.
I have found wiring to be some of the most punishing work on a boat. You're not lifting anything but you are often squeezed into some awkward position while doing a pretty delicate job and it is weirdly tiring. Judging by that stack of wood, though...I'm thinking you're in pretty good shape!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Nov 30, 2014 10:39 am

by Cracker Larry

It's not neat at all yet, just working out the basic layout and wire routing. Still a lot of wires left to install, got make a wire order tomorrow when I figure out what I'm short on.

I have found wiring to be some of the most punishing work on a boat. You're not lifting anything but you are often squeezed into some awkward position while doing a pretty delicate job and it is weirdly tiring. Judging by that stack of wood, though...I'm thinking you're in pretty good shape!

I enjoy the wiring, but you are right, it gets rough my old bones being half buried inside the console for hours at a time. After that stack of firewood on Friday and 6 hours in the hole yesterday, it took me 2 bloody mary's this morning to stand up straight

About to go do it again.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Dec 01, 2014 8:50 pm

by Cracker Larry

Spent 2 more days bent over inside the console, hooked up a bunch of wires, not finished yet. My back is almost finished though.

Poor picture, sorry, worked until after dark tonight under lights. I can't believe how many wires are in this boat

We might need an additional buss block or 2. Filling up fast. Or slow, but still filling up

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Dec 02, 2014 10:15 am

by tech_support

Oh boy, that's a lot of rigging

a job I hate doing, but love knowing that I did it

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Dec 02, 2014 12:49 pm

by ks8

shine wrote:a job I hate doing, but love knowing that I did it

and did it right.

easy to troubleshoot, if that day ever comes. And it reflects on the entire project

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Dec 02, 2014 12:54 pm

by Joe H

My electrical panel on the P19 looks like a rats nest compared to that, but it all seems to work okay.

Joe H

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Dec 02, 2014 1:07 pm

by BB Sig

Larry stresses that when he builds for someone else it has to be right. I would want to do that for myself but don't know if I have the patience to do it. Mine would slide towards the rats nest!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Dec 02, 2014 1:16 pm

by ks8

I hope you didn't take that wrong Joe.

I did say *reflects on*, and not *defines*.

A solid and well-built boat speaks quite well for itself, if the only electrical system is a flashlight.

And now, me thinks if I say anymore, I'm only shoving my foot further in my mouth.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Dec 02, 2014 1:24 pm

by terrulian

I suppose this is irrelevant, but I sailed a very long distance with ratty looking wiring. This is because so many wires were buried in my old boat in ways that were not practical to re-do without being one of you crazies on this list, that I had to improvise in many areas. But at least every foot of it was "hardwired" in my brain. With careful work, Anchor wiring and connectors are very robust. I didn't have any electrical failures except within the professionally manufactured gear itself!

So while there's no substitute for neatness, I found a reasonable amount of care got me by.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Dec 02, 2014 1:51 pm

by peter-curacao

terrulian wrote:So while there's no substitute for neatness, I found a reasonable amount of care got me by.

True neat and tight is the best, some will disagree with me but I also think everything or as much as possible around the buss bars and fuse block connections should be covered up nicely to protect, this for instance could be done very easy with some starboard and ty-raps
I did it like this

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Dec 02, 2014 2:46 pm

by Corto Maltese

peter-curacao wrote:
terrulian wrote:So while there's no substitute for neatness, I found a reasonable amount of care got me by.
True neat and tight is the best, some will disagree with me but I also think everything or as much as possible around the buss bars and fuse block connections should be covered up nicely to protect, this for instance could be done very easy with some starboard and ty-raps
I did it like this

Is it electric chair?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Dec 02, 2014 3:16 pm

by Cracker Larry

peter-curacao wrote:
terrulian wrote:So while there's no substitute for neatness, I found a reasonable amount of care got me by.
True neat and tight is the best, some will disagree with me but I also think everything or as much as possible around the buss bars and fuse block connections should be covered up nicely to protect, this for instance could be done very easy with some starboard and ty-raps
I did it like this

It will be when it's finished, I'm still routing wires. Got more to pull. That is not the finished product

I like neat and tight too, and have covers for the buss bars.

Had to take a back break. Pulled the main engine harness through the chase this morning, it went pretty smooth, glad the chase only has 1 bend. Harness has big plugs. Spent 2 hours studying wiring diagrams and figuring out a dozen pigtail connectors. Got it wired in to the key switch harnesses and control box harness. Pulled the engine data buss harness, installed the buss and the data wiring from buss to both gauges. Was a little intimidated by all these but worked them out, for the most part. Documentation is pretty good. Still got a few mystery wires and pieces to solve

Pulled the fish finder transducer cable through the chase and got it wired to the Humminbird. I'll glue the transducer down soon. Maybe later today when my back can stand straight again.

Also, finally got that dang remote fill hose for the hydraulic steering pump connected, I knew it would be a bitch and it was, busted every knuckle working inside a 3" hole. I've been worrying if I could get it connected inside the hole without having a kink in the hose, and get a clamp on it. Worked out to satisfaction. That deserved a rum drink!

Building on....weather sure is nice, perfect for a change

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Dec 02, 2014 5:22 pm

by Joe H

I hope you didn't take that wrong Joe. I did say *reflects on*, and not *defines*. A solid and well-built boat speaks quite well for itself, if the only electrical system is a flashlight. And now, me thinks if I say anymore, I'm only shoving my foot further in my mouth

.

Not at all!

Mine doesn't really look all that bad, only 10% of what Larry has going on there. (by design)

That deserved a rum drink!

Maybe two, looking great Larry.

Joe H

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Dec 02, 2014 5:54 pm

by terrulian

Well designed, functional, neat, and professional jobs on things like plumbing and wiring are a pleasure rarely encountered, even from well-respected manufacturers. One glance at stuff like Larry's gives you a very secure feeling. On the other hand, he's leaving the new owner with nothing to fix!! I wouldn't know how to behave on a boat like that.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Dec 02, 2014 6:25 pm

by Rogerdog

I am so looking forward to learning how to act on that boat with nothing to fix!

Larry is doing a beautiful job.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Dec 02, 2014 7:15 pm

by peter-curacao

Cracker Larry wrote:
It will be when it's finished, I'm still routing wires. Got more to pull. That is not the finished product I like neat and tight too, and have covers for the buss bars.

Larry not trying to tell you how to do your job, I know you know

I just got carried away reading, thought I gave my 2 cents to others who can use some ideas and help

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Dec 02, 2014 8:45 pm

by Cracker Larry

Peter, your console is large enough to walk inside, sit on the throne and read the paper

This one is only large enough for my head, one shoulder, half my chest and one arm at a time.

That deserved a rum drink!
Maybe two, looking great Larry.

Joe H

Maybe even 3

Got myself loosened up a little and pulled the wires for the bilge pump, bait pump, cooler light, bait tank light and motor well sump light this evening. Got a light tree set up with 2 - 500 watt halogen lamps, plus a clamp on that I can move around as needed, and 2 overhead. Weather is warm so I can work after dark. I like it warm

Got a lot going on here now...I confuse myself sometimes, often actually

I am so looking forward to learning how to act on that boat with nothing to fix!

Assuming that I can make all of this stuff work to start with

Once I turn it over to you, I don't want to have to fix it either, so we'll do the best we can not to build in problems that will need fixing any time soon.

Also ran the main positive and negative wires from the console to the battery compartment this evening. I think I'm about ready to hook up a battery and see what happens when I turn things on. Hold my beer and watch this

Still got a several wires left to pull and hook up, under hatch lights, open compartment lights, speaker wires, trolling motor, 2 battery chargers, battery switch... the list is long, but getting shorter every day

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Dec 03, 2014 8:40 am

by topwater

Nice job with the wire spaghetti ....I noticed that you made sure you have all the drink holders in
first before you started

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Dec 03, 2014 8:42 am

by Cracker Larry

First things first, John

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Dec 03, 2014 9:35 am

by Cannonball

Cracker, Looks like you've been hanging out with Bill Nye The Science Guy and Captain Ron at the same time! Don't worry... "If anything's going to happen, it's going to happen out there"

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Dec 04, 2014 6:44 am

by blueflood

Hi Larry,

That looks like a blast to do ! Neat and tidy anticipating that everything turns on, lights up, whirls and twirls without any smoke from somewhere

I am so envious of you guys in the south with a year-round build window, I can only look at my electrical container and those loose components which have nowhere to go for another 2 years

Top notch job Larry

Marc

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Dec 04, 2014 8:29 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks yall. I was an electronics engineer in another life, so that helps a lot, had a lot of practice wiring things. It is fun, except for all the bending over working inside little boxes.

My Mom called at midnight last night, never a good thing, she was admitted to the hospital and is having emergency gall bladder surgery today. So I reckon I'm going to the hospital instead of working on the boat. Always something

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Dec 04, 2014 8:50 am

by BB Sig

She is being lifted up in prayer. She is more important than any boat.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Dec 04, 2014 8:52 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks for that

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Dec 04, 2014 11:38 am

by willg

Wishing your mom the best, Larry.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Dec 04, 2014 11:52 am

by ks8

Yes -- praying for her and the whole family. I may be only one voice, but one joining in among many, including particularly, the most important voice of all.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Dec 04, 2014 7:18 pm

by Aripeka Angler

Larry, I hope your Mom is going to be ok. I'm thinking it was good that you weren't down here fishing when she had to go to the hospital. Prayers will be sent y'all's way from our house.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Dec 04, 2014 7:44 pm

by Cracker Larry

Thanks all, really appreciate the thoughts and prayers. She's still in surgery, been waiting all day for them to make a slot for her. Hurry up and wait! Doc says she'll be fine though. I guess it wasn't an immediate right now emergency

My brother relieved me of duty watch and I get a break.

I'm thinking it was good that you weren't down here fishing when she had to go to the hospital

That's usually how it works with her, I've had to cut a few trips short.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Dec 04, 2014 9:20 pm

by Cracker Larry

Surgery over, Doc says all went well and she'll be fine as can be, for 85.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Dec 04, 2014 10:30 pm

by Cracker Larry

Yesterday, glued down the fish finder transducer to the solid glass plug in the bottom. It's now one with the hull. Made a mold from a plastic cream cheese container, taped it down, made a loose mix of epoxy, silica, wood flour and color pigment. Poured a little in the mold, positioned and secured the transducer, and poured more epoxy over and around it. Haven't removed the mold yet. Tomorrow we'll see what it looks like.

And did more wiring. Very tight working inside the motor well sump, obviously have some wiring to clean up in there. More to pull yet and got more on order.

Burning the midnight oil. The nights this week have been warmer than the days were last week. Got to get it while the getting is good. I think we'll have a New Years baby

Of course, if you want to hear God laugh, tell him your plans.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Dec 05, 2014 12:05 am

by Fred in Wisc

Glad to hear that

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Dec 07, 2014 7:30 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Fred. Mom is home from the hospital and doing fine

I'm still wiring. We ordered the last cables and such we needed on Thursday from Genuinedealz.com. All the battery cables and jumpers cut to custom lengths, with ends installed and heat shrink. 8 custom cables, plus some other wires. I figured it would take a few days and I'd work on wood trim while waiting, but the order showed up yesterday morning! So I pulled some more wires instead

Got everything we need now to finish up the electrical, so I guess I'll be spending another day or 2 crammed in a hole.

Great service from Genuinedealz, highly recommended folks to do business with.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Dec 07, 2014 7:43 am

by Walkers Run

Cracker Larry wrote:
Great service from Genuinedealz, highly recommended folks to do business with.

Good to know. I'm about to place an order with them.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Dec 07, 2014 9:18 am

by Larry B

Everything looking great as usual CL

Mighty fine workmanship

I agree, you can't beat genuinedealz for wiring

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Dec 07, 2014 9:22 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Larry, where you been?

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Dec 07, 2014 12:41 pm

by bigtalljv

Larry B wrote:Everything looking great as usual CL Mighty fine workmanship

I agree, you can't beat genuinedealz for wiring

I'll second that. Great service, great products, and great prices.

Jason

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Dec 07, 2014 9:47 pm

by BB Sig

I went to bookmark their website and realized I've been on here too long and already had it bookmarked. The info on this site rocks!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Dec 10, 2014 8:01 am

by jorgepease

bigtalljv wrote:
Larry B wrote:Everything looking great as usual CL Mighty fine workmanship

I agree, you can't beat genuinedealz for wiring
I'll second that. Great service, great products, and great prices.

Jason

I used them too, and concur!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Dec 10, 2014 9:19 am

by Larry B

Cracker Larry wrote:Thanks Larry, where you been?

Still here, been lurking and watching your build and others,

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Dec 10, 2014 9:27 am

by Cracker Larry

Hopefully you won't die of old age before I'm finished

Cold nasty weather has really been slowing me down.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Dec 10, 2014 9:50 pm

by Cracker Larry

Got a little more wiring done today, and some other bits and pieces. Moving along. Not much photo worthy. Too cold to glue anything that needs gluing or painting. Rogerdog sent me a bag with 500 tie wraps in it to finish up the wiring

Speaking of Rogerdog, he's going fishing with Raymond and I tomorrow. He's brave

We're going to try to show him some redfish and trout, hope we find some. Ya never know with fish. Some days you catch 100 and some days you don't get a bite

We're going to try to keep the boat ride very short. 32 degrees in the morning. It will not be a warm ride to the fishing holes in Raymond's open Maverick doing 50 mph. I lay down in the sole until we get there, fishing is one of the few things I will suffer some cold for.

Edit: That's one reason I like to take his boat in the winter, I can lay down out of the wind while he grins and drives

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Dec 11, 2014 6:40 am

by blueflood

Hi Larry,

That outfit is for Canadians out on a snowmobile run in -30 degrees windchill, not for boat riding on an unfrozen body of water

Come up north, way up north and feel what real cold is

...so cold that the squirrel's nuts were...

Marc

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Dec 11, 2014 6:45 am

by antoniekruger

Hi Larry,

I trust all is well. The build is looking great - soooo close.

I'm busy with my casting deck and I'm fitting my cooler in one of the voids.
Looking at your pics below, I have the following question - Can I not lay 3 layers of biax cloth on the polystyrene - cleat to cleat instead of putting in the 6mm ply and then biax the lot.

Thanks,
Antonie

Cracker Larry wrote:
I suppose buying a sheet of poly, cutting to size and boxing it out would be easier than foaming and shaping.
Keep up the good work.
I did consider pouring it with foam, but decided sheet polystyrene may be better. That's how I did my OD18 and it has worked perfectly. It's almost the exact same setup as the GF18. The foam fits flush to the cleats...

And then the inner walls are glued to the cleats and glassed inside.

I have plywood backing plates installed for the drains and overflow fittings. One of the compartments is strictly a cooler, the other is a live well that can double as a cooler.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Dec 11, 2014 10:11 am

by Cracker Larry

That outfit is for Canadians out on a snowmobile run in -30 degrees windchill, not for boat riding on an unfrozen body of water Come up north, way up north and feel what real cold is

No thanks, I'd never leave the house

Can I not lay 3 layers of biax cloth on the polystyrene - cleat to cleat instead of putting in the 6mm ply and then biax the lot.

I don't think it would have enough impact resistance to bottles, cans and fish spines using that insulation foam. If you used a marine grade structural foam then yes.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Dec 11, 2014 11:04 am

by antoniekruger

Thanks, mate - I was staring at it and came to a similar conclusion.
Have you ever used epoxy foams? 3 Part mix - One epoxy, one hardener and one foaming agent.
A

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Dec 11, 2014 8:56 pm

by Cracker Larry

No, I've never used any of the 3 part foams, can't help you there. But a thin layer of ply glued to the inside is probably cheaper than divinycell or nidacore foam core. Not sure what the minimum sheet size is, but $$. I use a caulking tube glue to attach the ply to the insulation board. Both Liquid Nails and Loctite make a special glue just for it. Epoxy doesn't bond well directly to it.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Dec 11, 2014 9:43 pm

by Cracker Larry

Raymond and I put Rogerdog on his first SC Low Country trout and red fishing trip today. We were gifted with a beautiful, calm, sunny day, although somewhat cold even with 6 layers of clothes. Didn't get wet anyway. The fish gods smiled on us again, along with being at the right place, at the right time, with right bait and tactics. And the whim of the fish gods.

Went to a new bait shop that recently opened near the landing and I told the lady that I wanted 8 dozen live shrimp and 6 dozen live mud minnows. Her eyes sort of bugged out and she said how many? I told her we don't fool around. I want 14 dozen live bait. Probably her biggest sale yet

In SC they have to sell live bait by the dozen, it's a pain. She didn't count very well, hit 5 dozen twice, 6 dozen 3 times, 7 dozen twice, and I'm sure we got 10 dozen minners (mummichogs) for the 6 we paid for. She didn't count very fast or cipher none too well either, but was generous, and told us if it was a short count come back and she'd give us some more. My kind of bait shop right there

Well, we used every one of the 8 or 12 dozen live shrimp we had, plus the dozen or so that died, and most of the 10 dozen mud minnows too. Bite was steady all afternoon with a lot of doubles. Caught a lot of trout, more shorts than keepers today, but some really nice ones too, a fair amount of reds, almost a limit of keepers plus a lot of barely shorts, half a dozen black drum, barely short, no legal keepers, and a few sheepshead, also barely under size, no keepers on those either. Steady action all day, had to leave before we got stuck in the creek by the falling tide. The 3 of us caught 100 or more fish in 4 hours, 4 different species, and never moved the boat more than 50 feet. The Ipilot trolling motor kept it glued in place. Got to love fall fishing in the Low Country

And I didn't even take one picture. Fishing posts suck without pictures, but it was a good day

I suspect Rogerdog is still cleaning fish, he left with a cooler full. Raymond kept a big mess too, to give to a family who needed it.

A couple of older fellows pulled up to the ramp as we were loading up, said they had fished from daylight to almost dark, didn't catch a fish, said they just weren't biting today. They were a bit shocked when they looked in our cooler

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Thu Dec 11, 2014 11:53 pm

by Rogerdog

What a fantastic day. Excellent company, good weather, cooperative fish -- dang near perfect.

And yes, I just finished cleaning fish. Thank you Larry and Raymond!

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Dec 12, 2014 8:29 am

by Cracker Larry

And yes, I just finished cleaning fish.

Our pleasure, Wayne. I figured you'd be cleaning fish until midnight

Your fishetarians should be well stocked for a while.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Dec 13, 2014 8:27 am

by peter-curacao

All looks good captain

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Dec 14, 2014 8:47 pm

by Cracker Larry

Still wiring, spent most of the weekend wiring, this boat has more wires than my house

Wires to front speakers pulled, front speakers installed, power cables to 24V trolling motor pulled, trolling motor power outlet installed, interface cable from GPS plotter to trolling motor installed and connected to GPS, wires to fwd 12V outlet for spotlight pulled, outlet installed, wires to anchor locker and both forward side locker lights pulled, all 3 of those wired and installed, wire pulled for under bow deck light, not installed yet. Unpacked the IPilot trolling motor and figured it out, and the quick release bracket for it. I think that was the last unopened box I have

Worked out the trolling motor mounting, I think. Didn't drill any holes yet. Forward locker vents installed, and some other stuff.

Building on. Not much photo worthy, just a lot more wires finished. Still have a few to go.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Dec 16, 2014 6:56 pm

by Cracker Larry

Still wiring and fitting. Working on all the under deck and inside hatch lights now. Bunch of those. No dark holes in this boat .

Raymond came over and started measuring and fitting for the top, leaning post, swim platform, stake out bracket and stuff. He's got the top almost finished. Nice, huh

This is a jig he uses to layout and fit everything for the top. Looks like a scaffold but it's very precise. He brought a lot of cheap EMT pipe and worked on the bends that he'll use for patterns for the real thing. He brought another cool adjustable jig for laying out the swim platform angles and location. It's a process, just like boat building.

We spent all afternoon on that, then he helped me with positioning the trolling motor and quick release bracket. It's a big, long, heavy and ungainly monster! Took both of us to tame the beast. But they sure are sweet in action

Building on. Closer today than yesterday, got this elephant chewed down to one foot now

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Dec 16, 2014 10:39 pm

by ks8

Sounds almost ready for the planked sole.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Dec 16, 2014 11:19 pm

by Cracker Larry

Sounds almost ready for the planked sole.

It is, but the weather has been too cold for gluing anything. Below freezing every night for the last few weeks, some days warm up into the 60s for a couple of hours but the hull itself doesn't have time to warm up enough for epoxy to cure. I really need a shop that I can control the environment in. Building outside has too many variables that slow me down.

Wiring and hardware has to get done though and I can wire and rig in this weather, so we do what we can.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Wed Dec 17, 2014 9:28 am

by jorgepease

I like his systematic process, I wish I could find a metal guy like that down here.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Dec 22, 2014 9:13 am

by Cracker Larry

Still moving forward, still moving slow. The weather has been and still is dismal. Rain every day for the last 4, lows of 40F, highs of 46F makes it hard to get much done

Not to mention Christmas activities and festivities to attend to.

Pulled some more wires, think I've got everything pulled now. Connected some more wires, still have a few to go. Installed all the under deck and inside hatch and compartment lights. 16 different strings, about 275 led lights. Most of them wired, some not yet.

Made backing blocks for the trolling motor and bow cleat. Had to bring those in the house and prime them on the dining room table so the epoxy would cure. Mrs. Cracker not real pleased, but she is used to me

Got the trolling motor bracket permanently installed and most of the wiring finished for it, bow cleat permanently installed, and some other odds and ends finished.

If the weather gods and boat building gods would come to some agreements, we could get this thing finished up pretty quick.

Merry Christmas to those who celebrate it, Happy Hanukkah to others, peace on earth to all. Hope everyone has a great holiday season.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Dec 22, 2014 10:21 am

by terrulian

Back at ya, CL

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Dec 22, 2014 2:53 pm

by Joe H

Marry Christmas Larry,
We are at the hospital celebrating the birth of our 4th Grandchild, Mom and baby Evan doing great, certainly a season of celebration!

Joe & Janet

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Dec 22, 2014 5:57 pm

by Cracker Larry

Excellent news Joe and Janet

Glad all is well with Mom and baby! That's a nice Christmas present

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Dec 23, 2014 5:55 am

by cottontop

Merry Christmas Larry and Mrs. Been cold here in FL. too; just not as cold as you. Happy New Year too all of you. Hope it is happy, healthy, and prosperous. John

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Tue Dec 23, 2014 9:07 pm

by MarkOrge

Uncle Cracker. You realize when you make a comment about how cold it is you have boat building brethren in Wisconsin, Michigan, and Canada ?

Just ribbing you, wishing you all a Merry Christmas.

PS: it looks like a "green" Christmas for us here in Southern Ontario - just cold rain LOL

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Dec 28, 2014 9:00 pm

by Cracker Larry

Mark, Merry Christmas to you too. I bitch if it's colder than 60F. My comfort zone is 70-100. Beautiful today and 75, just right

Chewed another toe off of the elephant, got the trolling motor batteries installed, secured and wired, battery hold down bracket made with Star Board and installed, trolling motor circuit breaker installed and wired, on-board dual bank 24V charger for trolling motor installed and wired, made mounts for that from Star Board too. Got the charger plugged in now and batteries are charging. Green lights, Houston, we have power

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sun Dec 28, 2014 11:22 pm

by timoub007

Hi Larry,

It has been a couple of years since I have been active on the board here, but no surprise to find you almost done with another boat. This one looks great, as usual.

I spent most of the weekend, off and on between tearing down Christmas decorations and preparing for a week long hunting trip, reading 203 pages of this thread. First I want to say my belated prayers are with you for your mother's first illness, Dori's battle with the big C and your mother's latest illness. I hope that all in the Cracker family are on the mend and going to enjoy another wonderful New Year's passing.

One great thing about coming in this late is that I got to miss all of the waiting.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all.

Tim

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Mon Dec 29, 2014 8:11 am

by Cracker Larry

Thanks Tim. Good to see you back on here and I appreciate the thoughts. All is well at the Cracker house now

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Fri Jan 02, 2015 11:13 pm

by Cracker Larry

Making good progress, but it might be a while before I tackle another elephant of this size after I finish eating this one

Never seen so many wires in a boat under 30'

And a lot more that I haven't taken pictures of yet. I'll try to catch up on those tomorrow. All wiring and stuff under the bow deck is finished. Bow pedestal seat mount is installed. Both house and starting batteries are mounted and wired under the console seat, battery isolator and selector switch both wired and mounted, that took some figuring, 2 bank charger for house and starter batteries installed and wired. Plugged in and charging, lights green. I spend about as much time reading installation and wiring manuals as I do installing things. Hope I read them all right

We now have power to the console. Nothing smoked when I turned on the switches and flipped the breaker. That's a good sign

A little wiring left to do, lights and speakers, but it's easy from here, all the major stuff is complete.

Re: A Cracker Built GF18

Posted: Sat Jan 03, 2015 1:36 am

by BarraMan

Sweet! When you finish that one you can come over and work on mine.

I have to have it splashed by the end of April for shake-down trials prior to a big fishing trip up the western side of Cape York in June.