: I've a couple o' opinion-type questions for the board.

: 1. I'm about ready to start wiring up the hull to my North Bay XL, but am not
: sure if I need a sheer clamp first (I'm stripping the deck). I thought
: taping would be lighter/as-strong as the sheer clamp, but I wonder if the
: clamps might hold the chines to shape better as it gets wired up.
: Opinions? How does Pygmy attach their decks?

: 2. As I've built the panels, they've warped a bit. Is there a need and a way
: to correct this before I start stitching the boat, or will the new shape
: of the panels override mild warping problems?

: Thanks in advance,

: Nathan

It has been our experience that you will need sheer clamps to keep the sheer line fair. You can add them either before or after the hull is stitched and glued. We have done it both ways, but probably it is easiest to clamp the sheer clamp to the edge of a long table flat before you stitch the hull together. Either way, make sure you glue the sheer clamp so it is about 3/8" to 9/16" higher than the sheer line of the sheer panel so that you will have enough material to bevel it to match the curve of your deck forms. This will be a rolling bevel, much steeper in the foredeck area than the rear deck.

If I did this right you will see a picture of a Hybrid with a sheer clamp and there will be a link to a Hybrid hull assembled with forms without the sheer clamp. You should be able to see how the plywood alone dips between each form.

If your plywood panels are just curled somewhat they will straighten and stiffen when you wire them together. Make sure the mirrored panels match each other and the plans.

Michael