Re: how do i get the right shape for stringers
Not sure how long these stringers are but normally, you would set them in the position you want with someone holding them upright or clamp them so they don't move. Take a compass (one side has a pencil and the other has a point) and find the widest gap between the bottom of the stringer and the hull on the side of the stringer toward the centerline of the boat. Spread the compass to the size of the gap and then scribe the outboard side of the stringer along its full lenght. Now you have a line on your stringer.
Next, Take a bevel gauge and set it to the angle of your hull at the stringers location. Once you have this angle, set your band saw for the same angle of the hull. Cut along the line you have made with your compass.
This should get you pretty close. Test fit it, if you like it, mark the location you want it when it is installed. If you are using wood, coat the wood on all sides with either west epoxy or polyester resin.
Assuming you are going to glass these stringers in place, you will have to grind the hull back to fresh glass with no gelcoat(usally about 4" on either side of the length of the stringers. Make sure the hull is clean both under the stringer locaton giving it a wipe with some acetone.
When all the prep is done, Mix up a good amount of West Epoxy or Polyester resin and cabosil filler to the consistancy of peanut butter. Apply a good amount to the bottom of the stringer. Don't worry about it sqeezing out, you want that. Clamp it back in its place and make sure it is secure. Next, take a piece of formica fashioned like a putty knife but with a 1/2 round edge to it. Use this to clean away the excess glue until you get a nice transisiton from the stringer to the hull. Let it cure.
Now you have a good primary bond to the hull as well as a nice transition for your fiberglass roving to lay on.
Keep in mind that You can either use West Epoxy or Polyester resin but which ever one you choose, stay with it from start to finish.
Good Luck,
Chuck
