GF12 Questions

[ggracer]

Got my GF12 plans the other day, very nice, will be starting this weekend. One question: the plans and study plans list 1/4 and 1/2 inch ply, and the study plans for the FG14 list 1/4 and 1/2 inch, but the update on the website lists 3/8's instead of 1/2 inch for the GF14.

http://bateau2.com/content/view/90/27/

As the 1/2 is really only used for the bulkheads in the GF12, could one replace the 1/2" with 3/8's? I'd prefer to save a little weight, as I may be car topping it, so that extra 5 pounds might make a difference.

On a similar vein, the GF14 update specs 3/8 for the bottom instead of 1/4, would you recommed this change for the GF12? (adding weight, of course).....

Also, just to confirm, what 'shaft length' is the GF12 designed for? I thought the GF12 and 14 were the same except for length, but the 12 lists 15", and the 14 lists 20". And my Nissan 4hp is supposed to be 15", but measures more like 18" from bottom of bracket to top of caviatation plate

Many thanks,

Glen

[Cracker Larry]

Glenn, the link you posted was to a FL14. That's a different boat than a GF

I've built a GF 12 and a GF 16. I used 1/4 for sides and bottoms of both, and 1/2 for the frames, per plans. They've been getting some hard use and I'm very satisified with the strength. Oysters and cypress haven't scarred either of them yet.

Don't know about using 3/8 for the frames. Jacques will have to answer that.

Transom height is no problem. You are the man with the saw. Build it whatever height you need it to be. That's the beauty of homebuilding

[jacquesmm]

For the frames, 3/8 is sufficient but we have shown 1/2" in some cases to save plywood. I will check tomorrow.

[smilinmatt]

I'd think that 3/8" would be fine for the frames. I've put my GF through situations that would make even the most hardened nephrologists cringe, without any problems. You might need to stick to 1/2" for the rear and front deck tops (or possibly put framing underneath them) as they are pretty large spans.

You shouldn't have any problem cutting the transom down to fit an 18" shaft. I'd suggest cutting the plywood to specs, and then cutting down the transom after you've assembled the hull. Save the piece that's cut out. If you go with a longshaft later on, you've got a piece that will be a perfect fit.

[AdamG]

Look up my boat in the gallery. I use a 6HP with a 15" shaft on my GF12. I can take a picture of how I did it and post it, maybe tomorrow, but you might be able to see what I did from my gallery.

[ggracer]

Thanks all. It would appear that the transom is for a 20" outboard, in contrast to what's in the text, and I was planning on getting a 20" anyway, so I'm cool....

I may very well go with the 3/8"s, but you advice for a little extra bracing under the decks might be necessary, I'll check when I get there....

Thanks,

Glen