More engineering on-the-fly . . . design change #6,157
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Given that the underside of the swim deck has as much fiberglass in it as the transom, I have changed the transom reinforcement, eliminating the struts that were to extend in the swim deck cavity, and moving the top 'crossbar' lower.
I've also heeded the naval architects advice and further reduced the number of fasteners, focusing on the outer areas.
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26 fasteners on the face and about 20 on the rest of it (bevel sides, top plate).
Additionally, since the swim platform underside does not really need the struts that I had planned, I am going to lower the position of the 'crossbar' to the top of the transom openings, where it will be most effective in stiffening up the transom.
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Also, taking out the wiring and hoses has lead me to see the need for an opening on the 2 side supports that attach to the outer stringers. Something like this . . . .
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For the extension bracket, I am going to try 3/8" spacers (reduced from 1/2") to see if I can get a slightly better fit (and also use less hull putty). Speaking of which, I'm picking some up tomorrow AM. SS (316) bolts are on order, so hopefully the bits and pieces are falling into place.
The Admiral has offered to help paint the bottom, so as to speed things along when the time comes for launch preparations. I told her that part of the job includes scrubbing the caked-on algae off the bottom first.
