Fairing the hull in preparation
for planking…
The skeleton of the Mayflower is essentially completed. Before
planking can begin, the hull needs to be “faired”. To fair the
hull you need to bevel the outside edges of the bulkheads so
they create a smooth run for the planks. The hull needs more
beveling at the bow and the tuck of the stern. Use a long piece
of medium grade sandpaper that will span across several bulk-
heads at a time. Begin shaping the hull until a “batten” will lay
flush across every bulkhead edge. A batten is a thin (1/32” x
1/8”) planking strip that is periodically tested against the hull to
check its consistency. Make sure the batten has no unsightly
dips and it smoothly spans across each bulkhead edge as it bends
around the bow and stern. Use the batten at various levels on
the hull. Check its run along the bottom of the hull at the keel.
Also check it at mid-hull level and at the deck levels. See the
photos provided showing the beveled bulkheads at the bow and
stern. Compare these photos to the earlier ones presented in this
guide.
To complete this step, glue the four laser cut false decks into
position as shown in those same photos. Sand the top edges of
the bulkheads first to ensure the decks sit flush against them and
lay flat. The top of the bulkheads should be faired the same way
as you did for the sides of the hull. There are four false deck
templates. A center line has been laser-etched down each false
deck to help you line them up with the bulkhead former. Center
them properly so the gratings and other deck fittings referenced
on them will be correctly located. Note that the square opening
in the forecastle deck will be aligned over the recessed notch and
eye bolt. Sand the edges of these decks to conform to the faired
hull.
5
False decks are in position and the hull is faired. The bulkhead edges are beveled more severely at the bow and stern
1st layer of
planking on the
counter (1/16” x 1/8”)
2nd layer
of planking on
the counter is
almost completed
(1/32” x 1/8”)
Summary of Contents for Mayflower 1620
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