Fast Skiff 17 - FS 17 - Metric plans - Ft. Myers, FL

[progresst]

I've followed this board since 2010 and bought some plans for a GF-16 but bought a Carolina instead. The idea/compulsion/desire to build my own has never left me and in fact just grows...SO...I've decided to pull the trigger now that I know a little more of what I'd like in a boat's performance.

This FS 17 will be tiller controlled with possibly a small seat/coffin box/grab bar where the center console would go. I've included a photo of what I'm considering below. I run crab traps a few times a year recreationally so the more open the better. I may put just a removable grab bar...LOL...I don't like anything in the way I can't remove.

The build will occur in some rental space I have secured with 12' (3.66m) X 25' (7.62m) dimensions, secure gate and electricity. It removed the excuse that there is not enough space in the garage. The fact that I pay someone rent for the space also provides the motivation to keep moving haha...

I know NOTHING outside of very basic woodworking and the use of tools. I did a coffin box project to learn a little about fiberglass and epoxy. I chose Bateau's plans specifically for the support I've watched you guys give on this board. I'm hoping to get the help, I'm going to need it and welcome ANY input...good, bad and super duper ugly LOL.

Grab Rail/Seat Idea: http://www.progresstechnologies.com/wp- ... des-X-.jpg

Warehouse Space: http://www.progresstechnologies.com/wp- ... pace-1.jpg

[remedy32]

I'll be in Cape Coral in late February. Happy to hop over the river and offer a morning of help if you would like.

Bill

PS x2

-in "read this first" forum are instructions on posting images-always post a picture-you will get more and better help

-start 1 thread in "builders progress...." to document your build. Show progress and ask questions there. Others do follow these and respond. No need for a new thread for each question unless they go unanswered.

Bill

[progresst]

Bill, that would be awesome! The space is right off Metro Parkway and Daniels Parkway. Let me know as you have time and get settled. I've just done first pass of the plans and I'm pretty overwhelmed. I'm going to focus solely on the first steps of securing the plywood and measurements and figure I'll address the rest once that mini goal is achieved. I think I've got the image issue taken care of, you should see them now?

I'll be in Cape Coral in late February. Happy to hop over the river and offer a morning of help if you would like.

[jacquesmm]

One step at a time, it will work.

[progresst]

Thanks, quick question...I'm reviewing the prices for plywood. It appears the Meranti 1088 or the Okoume 1088 Joubert is the best "value" for the money with a $300 difference if I purchase 12 sheets of all of one or the other with the Meranti being 72 lbs. heavier.

Is there a benefit for a beginner to spending the extra $300.00 for the Joubert besides the weight savings? Easier to work with perhaps? Will the cheaper Meranti 1088 actually work better for either the 6mm or 9mm requirements?

One step at a time, it will work.

[Noles309]

I used the meranti 1088 on mine. It was my first boat and there were no real problems working with it for me, but I don't really have anything to compare it to. I know some have used the meranti for the frames, decks, sole and used the okoume for the side panels and bottom since its easier to bend.

[Irish]

Just like Noles I used meranti 1088 on the sides and 6566 for the frames. Beautiful stuff. Meranti although a little heavier than Okoume it is also more rot resistant. Go for it.

[wadestep]

Hi!
I live in Cape Coral and work in Ft. Myers. If you get stuck on something let me know and I'm happy to help. I'm very busy during season, but much slower during summer. I work at Cypress Lake and McGregor, so not far at all.
Wade

PS - make sure you buy a box fan or something to get air flow in that building. You'll need it to get anything done in the summer down here.

[remedy32]

Is there a benefit for a beginner to spending the extra $300.00 for the Joubert besides the weight savings? Easier to work with perhaps? Will the cheaper Meranti 1088 actually work better for either the 6mm or 9mm requirements?

I find okume easier to work with. Less tear out on crosscuts and many fewer splinters (yes, in your hands). I think the resin also penetrates a bit better into it. Down side......okume "bruises" much easier in handling; small dents that you do have to fill in and the extra $300 to save under 60lbs in the finished boat. I'd go with the meranti. If you're still building a basic tiller steered boat it's going to be pretty light no matter what. On that thought; it might make sense to bury chase tubes in the hull while you can. That way a switch to console would be relatively simple.

Bill

[progresst]

Awesome Wade! Yes, I will definitely take you up on that. There are a few areas I am very unsure of despite the reading I've done...that would be a huge help! Thanks! Yes, I'm planning on getting a big box fan ...I'm an early, early riser so that should help.

@remedy, I'm kind of thinking along those lines...that is alot per lb. haha. Is the Meranti THAT much harder to work/fair the hull with you think? It could get pretty expensive to drive over and back to get more plywood if I screw up the stitches etc.? Good call on the tubes.