I agree Bob, I too think that an outboard motor will suit the design of the Sprite really well.
It looks like the sort of boat that would have an outboard on in real life.
Will
I agree Bob, I too think that an outboard motor will suit the design of the Sprite really well.
It looks like the sort of boat that would have an outboard on in real life.
I think you will like the 30" size Chris, as it looks perfect with your chosen outboard motor on it.
......in-fact I think it probably looks better with the outboard motor on it than it does without it....
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but with or without an outboard motor, I think this could be quite a good fun boat and the blunt nose will makes its secondary use as a recovery boat very helpful too.
The 30" size should also make it a lot more useable for 12 months of the year too.
Bob.
I think you will like the 30" size Chris, as it looks perfect with your chosen outboard motor on it.
......in-fact I think it probably looks better with the outboard motor on it than it does without it....
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but with or without an outboard motor, I think this could be quite a good fun boat and the blunt nose will makes its secondary use as a recovery boat very helpful too.
The 30" size should also make it a lot more useable for 12 months of the year too.
That's coming together nicely Bob, and looks really good.
It looks a large model sat there on the bench 😎👌
Can't wait to see it on the water, I'm sure it's going to have real presence.
That's coming together nicely Bob, and looks really good.
It looks a large model sat there on the bench 😎👌
Can't wait to see it on the water, I'm sure it's going to have real presence.
The upper and lower stringers have dried nicely overnight and so I removed the elastic bands and the partly driven-in brass tacks and laminated the first of the second row of stringers on top of the top right side deck stringer.
Lots of clamps were used and a brass tack was partly driven into each bulkhead position to firmly laminate the two layers together with a good coating of Perkins Rapids Grip PVA.
Once this glue is fully dried I will remove the clamps and brass tacks and reuse them all on the next outer stringer that I will fit on the other side.
Bob.
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The upper and lower stringers have dried nicely overnight and so I removed the elastic bands and the partly driven-in brass tacks and laminated the first of the second row of stringers on top of the top right side deck stringer.
Lots of clamps were used and a brass tack was partly driven into each bulkhead position to firmly laminate the two layers together with a good coating of Perkins Rapids Grip PVA.
Once this glue is fully dried I will remove the clamps and brass tacks and reuse them all on the next outer stringer that I will fit on the other side.
The first pair of upper and lower stringers were fitted tonight and when the glue is dried tomorrow I can laminate the second 1/8" x 1/4" layer on top of them.
The lines look good and flow OK so I am happy that everything is square and aligned correctly .
The elastic bands were handy when placing the stringers onto the frames, but a sharp brass tack is driven into each bulkhead to hold them in place until the glue dries.
When dry, the tacks and the elastic bands will be removed.
The small vice is loose (not bolted down) but is heavy enough to hold the frame when needed.
Bob.
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The first pair of upper and lower stringers were fitted tonight and when the glue is dried tomorrow I can laminate the second 1/8" x 1/4" layer on top of them.
The lines look good and flow OK so I am happy that everything is square and aligned correctly .
The elastic bands were handy when placing the stringers onto the frames, but a sharp brass tack is driven into each bulkhead to hold them in place until the glue dries.
When dry, the tacks and the elastic bands will be removed.
The small vice is loose (not bolted down) but is heavy enough to hold the frame when needed.
The "acid test" will be when the first pair of upper and lower stringers are fitted to the outside edges of the bulkheads as it will then be easy to see if the lines of the deck edges and the joint between the sides and undersides flow nicely.
Any lumps or bumps will show easily, but we are hoping to see nice smoothly flowing lines for both.
This will also be the first time that we can see the shape of the hull described in wood with a frame being prepared for skinning. For me, this is always one of the best parts of any new build.
I will fit the first (inner) pair of deck edge stringers tonight and hopefully also be able to fit the first (inner) pair of lower gunwhale stringers too.
Bob.
The "acid test" will be when the first pair of upper and lower stringers are fitted to the outside edges of the bulkheads as it will then be easy to see if the lines of the deck edges and the joint between the sides and undersides flow nicely.
Any lumps or bumps will show easily, but we are hoping to see nice smoothly flowing lines for both.
This will also be the first time that we can see the shape of the hull described in wood with a frame being prepared for skinning. For me, this is always one of the best parts of any new build.
I will fit the first (inner) pair of deck edge stringers tonight and hopefully also be able to fit the first (inner) pair of lower gunwhale stringers too.
Looks good Bob - certainly better with the coamings to the cockpit area. Glad that it's coming together as intended without the benefit of me doing a test build. It's one thing doing the drawings but it's very easy to overlook something or get it wrong. I think the most important aspect of any build is getting the shape of the keel and frames right and after that anything can be made to fit and work. My Faun is obviously a lot more complicated build and I've had to make lots of changes and do things on the hoof as I've gone along. But by and large that's my usual method - I draw the basics and then start and then sort things out, maybe with some more drawings for the superstructure etc. That's why I like scratch building so much.
Funnily enough I did initially extend the cabin sides to Frame 2 but decided that it wasn't really doing anything so stopped them at Frame 3! As far as the angled cockpit/cabin side goes, I was going to do it in two pieces and fill the joint if needed with P38. That way I can adjust the lengths easily if required.
Looks good Bob - certainly better with the coamings to the cockpit area. Glad that it's coming together as intended without the benefit of me doing a test build. It's one thing doing the drawings but it's very easy to overlook something or get it wrong. I think the most important aspect of any build is getting the shape of the keel and frames right and after that anything can be made to fit and work. My Faun is obviously a lot more complicated build and I've had to make lots of changes and do things on the hoof as I've gone along. But by and large that's my usual method - I draw the basics and then start and then sort things out, maybe with some more drawings for the superstructure etc. That's why I like scratch building so much.
Funnily enough I did initially extend the cabin sides to Frame 2 but decided that it wasn't really doing anything so stopped them at Frame 3! As far as the angled cockpit/cabin side goes, I was going to do it in two pieces and fill the joint if needed with P38. That way I can adjust the lengths easily if required.
Hi Chris,
Here are a couple of pictures of the frames assembled onto the keel.
This prototype will be built to your original "straight sided" cabin plans.
The long steel ruler was used to check that the cabin sides were straight (first picture) as the slots for the cabin sides are slightly too wide due to the reduced thickness of them - after I had widened the slots to take 4mm cabin sides.
Your later drawings will show the cabin sides following the edge of the hull with perhaps a shallow cut into the internal cabin sides at the peak of the direction change (as per LesRo Rapier construction) to help the cabin sides comply with the direction change?
Once happy with the alignment of the prototype, I used a small dab of super-glue to tac some strategic points together (shown here) so that I can measure and check everything more carefully than I could with everything loose.
Although the gap between Former 2 and Former 3 will have a 1/8" x 1/4" strip on each side to join them, I think I will beef this area up a bit due to one of its intended uses as a pusher tug.
If I build another Sprite Plus I would extend the cabin sides to join onto Former 2. Other than that I think the design works well enough.
I have checked all the bulkheads against the keel with an engineers square and everything aligns OK.
Bob.
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Here are a couple of pictures of the frames assembled onto the keel.
This prototype will be built to your original "straight sided" cabin plans.
The long steel ruler was used to check that the cabin sides were straight (first picture) as the slots for the cabin sides are slightly too wide due to the reduced thickness of them - after I had widened the slots to take 4mm cabin sides.
Your later drawings will show the cabin sides following the edge of the hull with perhaps a shallow cut into the internal cabin sides at the peak of the direction change (as per LesRo Rapier construction) to help the cabin sides comply with the direction change?
Once happy with the alignment of the prototype, I used a small dab of super-glue to tac some strategic points together (shown here) so that I can measure and check everything more carefully than I could with everything loose.
Although the gap between Former 2 and Former 3 will have a 1/8" x 1/4" strip on each side to join them, I think I will beef this area up a bit due to one of its intended uses as a pusher tug.
If I build another Sprite Plus I would extend the cabin sides to join onto Former 2. Other than that I think the design works well enough.
I have checked all the bulkheads against the keel with an engineers square and everything aligns OK.
Hi Bob. Yes, I did put a note on to use 3mm but of course you can use what you want. Is the 3mm stiff enough? I thought it should be as the lower part of the cabin sides are restrained and the cabin is butressed with the rear frame and front windows.
I do have obeche but I only use it for motor and servo mounts. It is a nice timber but I would have thought it is too stiff for stringers and the like? I use bass mostly for my strip wood as it bends and sands easily, along with mahogany for when it is varnished.
Actually thinking about it, I think it is beech I use for engine mounts etc. which is very stiff. I don't think I have used obeche. I'll get some on my next order and try some. If it is similar to bass/lime I don't think you will find anything better for general timber than bass or obeche.
Will be interesting once you start assembly.
Hi Bob. Yes, I did put a note on to use 3mm but of course you can use what you want. Is the 3mm stiff enough? I thought it should be as the lower part of the cabin sides are restrained and the cabin is butressed with the rear frame and front windows.
I do have obeche but I only use it for motor and servo mounts. It is a nice timber but I would have thought it is too stiff for stringers and the like? I use bass mostly for my strip wood as it bends and sands easily, along with mahogany for when it is varnished.
Actually thinking about it, I think it is beech I use for engine mounts etc. which is very stiff. I don't think I have used obeche. I'll get some on my next order and try some. If it is similar to bass/lime I don't think you will find anything better for general timber than bass or obeche.
What Type of Wood to Use?
Some more 1/8" x 1/4" strip (3.2mm x 6.5mm in metric) needs to be ordered as my stocks are running low.
I usually allow 20 of these strips per new build to cover all the stringers, deck edging etc.....and hopefully leave a couple of spares for repairs and future projects.
Traditionally , I have always bought obechie strips for this - probably because that was always the type of wood that was always included in my early Aerokits kits, but I do see more choices available these days and wonder of anyone has any thoughts to offer?
Chris has specified bass wood for use as the stringers on his plan for the Sprite Plus so I would appreciate any helpful inputs from anyone who can advise the different "qualities" of each type of wood as maybe obechie is no longer the best option?
Bob.
Some more 1/8" x 1/4" strip (3.2mm x 6.5mm in metric) needs to be ordered as my stocks are running low.
I usually allow 20 of these strips per new build to cover all the stringers, deck edging etc.....and hopefully leave a couple of spares for repairs and future projects.
Traditionally , I have always bought obechie strips for this - probably because that was always the type of wood that was always included in my early Aerokits kits, but I do see more choices available these days and wonder of anyone has any thoughts to offer?
Chris has specified bass wood for use as the stringers on his plan for the Sprite Plus so I would appreciate any helpful inputs from anyone who can advise the different "qualities" of each type of wood as maybe obechie is no longer the best option?
When Chris drew-up the plans for the Sprite Plus he specified 3mm cabin sides, so my "underweight" cabin sides at 3.5mm are still a little thicker than the original intended size, so I am not going to re-cut them in 4mm as I had originally planned.
The Hegnar jigsaw was dusted off last night and used to cut out the cabin windows and the centre void of Frame 3, so I can start to look at assembling the bulkheads and cabin sides next after I have cleaned them up.
I saved up any spare cash that I could find for many years to buy my orange coloured Hegnar Jigsaw. I remember seeing the adverts for them when I was still at school, and so it was a schoolboy dream to own one after years of cutting out my model aircraft parts with Xacto craft knives !
The Hegnar Jigsaw cuts surgically accurately and has very (very) fine thin blades, but it is a slow process compared to the bandsaw and I have yet to fully master the timing to prepare and move the wood quickly enough to always stay on the line when cutting a tight curve!
I had a basic jigsaw before this Hegnar and the blades on it were much wider and a lot easier to guide and keep on the cut line. I suppose it's a bit like comparing driving my regular car with an F1 car - one is very user friendly and the other is really sensitive?
I really must make the time to practice using the Hegnar jigsaw as it is clearly a very good machine that has great potential and cuts very cleanly ....but for now, and with some minor adjustments with a fine file the cut-outs look OK...🙄
Bob.
When Chris drew-up the plans for the Sprite Plus he specified 3mm cabin sides, so my "underweight" cabin sides at 3.5mm are still a little thicker than the original intended size, so I am not going to re-cut them in 4mm as I had originally planned.
The Hegnar jigsaw was dusted off last night and used to cut out the cabin windows and the centre void of Frame 3, so I can start to look at assembling the bulkheads and cabin sides next after I have cleaned them up.
I saved up any spare cash that I could find for many years to buy my orange coloured Hegnar Jigsaw. I remember seeing the adverts for them when I was still at school, and so it was a schoolboy dream to own one after years of cutting out my model aircraft parts with Xacto craft knives !
The Hegnar Jigsaw cuts surgically accurately and has very (very) fine thin blades, but it is a slow process compared to the bandsaw and I have yet to fully master the timing to prepare and move the wood quickly enough to always stay on the line when cutting a tight curve!
I had a basic jigsaw before this Hegnar and the blades on it were much wider and a lot easier to guide and keep on the cut line. I suppose it's a bit like comparing driving my regular car with an F1 car - one is very user friendly and the other is really sensitive?
I really must make the time to practice using the Hegnar jigsaw as it is clearly a very good machine that has great potential and cuts very cleanly ....but for now, and with some minor adjustments with a fine file the cut-outs look OK...🙄
Hi Bob
Nothibg wrong with "Bodging" think you are right past masters have always worked with what they have and let their skills fill the gap. This much undervalued skill I think is one of the biggest problems with people today.
Regards
Adam
Proud to be called. "bodger" 👍👍
Nothibg wrong with "Bodging" think you are right past masters have always worked with what they have and let their skills fill the gap. This much undervalued skill I think is one of the biggest problems with people today.
Bodging.
As a matter of interest, I thought I would just check to see if I had any imperial weight sizes of birch plywood left from the 1960's.....and I don't.
I checked again the size of this sheet of wood that I used to cut the Sprite Plus cabin sides from, and it is 3.5mm thick.
The other sheets that were stacked on top of it and underneath it are 4.0mm, and were probably bought from the same supplier, and at the same time as this one.
I also checked the conversion from 3.5mm to imperial fractions of an inch and it is 9/64".... an unlikely size for a plywood sheet seller to stock, so I think I was just unlucky and this particular sheet of 4mm birch plywood was a little under-weight.
.
There must be a reasonable tolerance for the plywood manufacturer to have and 0.5mm is only around 1/64". so I think I will just get on and use the cabin sides that I have cut from it and make any minor adjustments that are needed to the fit as I go.
Some of the most skilled wood "craftsmen" from many years ago were called 'Bodgers" and they would work with whatever materials they had to hand (seldom with uniform sizes of wood) to produce something serviceable, and so in the best tradition of a Bodger, I will work with this slightly under-sized plywood and hope that I don't "Bodge it up" .......in the more recent meaning of this classic term...........🤓
Bob.
As a matter of interest, I thought I would just check to see if I had any imperial weight sizes of birch plywood left from the 1960's.....and I don't.
I checked again the size of this sheet of wood that I used to cut the Sprite Plus cabin sides from, and it is 3.5mm thick.
The other sheets that were stacked on top of it and underneath it are 4.0mm, and were probably bought from the same supplier, and at the same time as this one.
I also checked the conversion from 3.5mm to imperial fractions of an inch and it is 9/64".... an unlikely size for a plywood sheet seller to stock, so I think I was just unlucky and this particular sheet of 4mm birch plywood was a little under-weight.
.
There must be a reasonable tolerance for the plywood manufacturer to have and 0.5mm is only around 1/64". so I think I will just get on and use the cabin sides that I have cut from it and make any minor adjustments that are needed to the fit as I go.
Some of the most skilled wood "craftsmen" from many years ago were called 'Bodgers" and they would work with whatever materials they had to hand (seldom with uniform sizes of wood) to produce something serviceable, and so in the best tradition of a Bodger, I will work with this slightly under-sized plywood and hope that I don't "Bodge it up" .......in the more recent meaning of this classic term...........🤓
When is 4mm not 4mm?
A pair of cabin sides was drawn and cut out on the bandsaw last night, but when I checked the interlock fit I found that the slots that I had just enlarged were a looser fit than they should be.
I stack my plywood sheets in 12" x 48" lengths (some in 12" x 36" lengths) on shelves that I made for the purpose years ago to keep them stored flat and warp free, and I have a separate shelves for 3mm, 4mm and plywood skins with heaver weight wood underneath and on top of them to help keep them nice and flat.
My stock has been dwindling over the years and I am overdue for a new wood purchase, but I have not had any 3mm plywood for some time, but I do have some sheets of 4mm left.
The "4mm" sheet that I had pulled off of the shelf was under-weight! It actually measured 3.5mm - a size that I didn't know existed!
I was a bit annoyed with myself for not checking this before I cut it, but I keep all of my 4mm wood on one shelf that only has this size stacked on it....but I will double check next time!
My few remaining sheets of 4mm do actually measure 4mm so I was unlucky when I chose` this one. I am not sure about dumping these cabin sides and cutting a new pair - or just carry on and work with what I have.
I will go out and take anther look at it later and decide what to do. Packing the slots to make a tight fit is not really a problem (and invisible when the boat is finished) - just a bit annoying!
Bob.
A pair of cabin sides was drawn and cut out on the bandsaw last night, but when I checked the interlock fit I found that the slots that I had just enlarged were a looser fit than they should be.
I stack my plywood sheets in 12" x 48" lengths (some in 12" x 36" lengths) on shelves that I made for the purpose years ago to keep them stored flat and warp free, and I have a separate shelves for 3mm, 4mm and plywood skins with heaver weight wood underneath and on top of them to help keep them nice and flat.
My stock has been dwindling over the years and I am overdue for a new wood purchase, but I have not had any 3mm plywood for some time, but I do have some sheets of 4mm left.
The "4mm" sheet that I had pulled off of the shelf was under-weight! It actually measured 3.5mm - a size that I didn't know existed!
I was a bit annoyed with myself for not checking this before I cut it, but I keep all of my 4mm wood on one shelf that only has this size stacked on it....but I will double check next time!
My few remaining sheets of 4mm do actually measure 4mm so I was unlucky when I chose` this one. I am not sure about dumping these cabin sides and cutting a new pair - or just carry on and work with what I have.
I will go out and take anther look at it later and decide what to do. Packing the slots to make a tight fit is not really a problem (and invisible when the boat is finished) - just a bit annoying!
All of the bulkheads (Formers 3 - 8 plus the transom) made have been cleaned-up and fitted to the hull (not glued yet).
The slots (and cut-outs) to fit the 3mm cabin sides are being opened-out to accept 4mm cabin sides.
........if I realised that I had no 3mm ply for this job, I would have drawn them wider before I cut the formers out!
Not to worry, all the bulkheads fitted tightly into the keel between the doublers (no slop) and look aligned OK when checked with an engineers square......but we all know that means "didly sqaut" until the cabin sides are fitted into place to complete the interlock!
I opened up the prop-shaft slot with a rough-cut round file. It has a very rough cut that I believe is called a "bastard cut" (genuine terminology). I only needed to rock it left and right as I pushed it into the keel slot and it cut it away quite easily......wish I had one years ago !!!!
This round file also left a really nice rough ridged internal finish when used this way - perfect for the 24 hour Araldite to bond into and hold the new propeller shaft securely👍
Just going out to the workshop (shed) now to make sure I really do have some 4mm plywood long enough to cut the cabin sides out of................
Bob.
All of the bulkheads (Formers 3 - 8 plus the transom) made have been cleaned-up and fitted to the hull (not glued yet).
The slots (and cut-outs) to fit the 3mm cabin sides are being opened-out to accept 4mm cabin sides.
........if I realised that I had no 3mm ply for this job, I would have drawn them wider before I cut the formers out!
Not to worry, all the bulkheads fitted tightly into the keel between the doublers (no slop) and look aligned OK when checked with an engineers square......but we all know that means "didly sqaut" until the cabin sides are fitted into place to complete the interlock!
I opened up the prop-shaft slot with a rough-cut round file. It has a very rough cut that I believe is called a "bastard cut" (genuine terminology). I only needed to rock it left and right as I pushed it into the keel slot and it cut it away quite easily......wish I had one years ago !!!!
This round file also left a really nice rough ridged internal finish when used this way - perfect for the 24 hour Araldite to bond into and hold the new propeller shaft securely👍
Just going out to the workshop (shed) now to make sure I really do have some 4mm plywood long enough to cut the cabin sides out of................
When you started to draw the plans for the bigger sized Sprite you had a lift-off superstructure in mind so the plans allow it to be built either way - which is a good idea.
Everything is looking OK so far.
The top line of the cabin side could have a slight change in the rake if it peaks at the top of Former 5, but it looks OK as it is, so I may choose to leave it.
All of the bulkheads were cut out on the bandsaw last night, it took about an hour with more time being spent working out the best entry and exit routes for the saw blade that actually cutting the wood!
I have not cut the middle out of Frame 3 on my fretsaw yet, but I did (briefly) consider slicing it along the datum line so that it could be more easily cut out in two halves (top and bottom) on the bandsaw (or by hand) with anyone who did not have a fret saw.
This option would be glued back together again afterwards with a small ply skin support plate bonded onto the front facing side (each side) where it would probably not be seen in any case as it would be hidden in the void.
Bob.
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When you started to draw the plans for the bigger sized Sprite you had a lift-off superstructure in mind so the plans allow it to be built either way - which is a good idea.
Everything is looking OK so far.
The top line of the cabin side could have a slight change in the rake if it peaks at the top of Former 5, but it looks OK as it is, so I may choose to leave it.
All of the bulkheads were cut out on the bandsaw last night, it took about an hour with more time being spent working out the best entry and exit routes for the saw blade that actually cutting the wood!
I have not cut the middle out of Frame 3 on my fretsaw yet, but I did (briefly) consider slicing it along the datum line so that it could be more easily cut out in two halves (top and bottom) on the bandsaw (or by hand) with anyone who did not have a fret saw.
This option would be glued back together again afterwards with a small ply skin support plate bonded onto the front facing side (each side) where it would probably not be seen in any case as it would be hidden in the void.
Coming along nicely Bob. Yeah, I had brain fade with the rear cabin wall and frame - I'm so used to designing for lift-off superstructures! I'm modifying it for the outboard version where I've returned to a fixed superstructure. Hopefully the rest of the build goes to plan though with any necessary tweaks.
Coming along nicely Bob. Yeah, I had brain fade with the rear cabin wall and frame - I'm so used to designing for lift-off superstructures! I'm modifying it for the outboard version where I've returned to a fixed superstructure. Hopefully the rest of the build goes to plan though with any necessary tweaks.
These are the remaining bulkheads (and the transom) that need to be cut to add to Frame 1 and Frame 2 that are already fitted to the keel.
Frame 5 and the rear cabin wall drawings have been combined as this Sprite Plus is being built with an integrated cabin and not a variant with lift-off superstructure so it does not need a separate cabin wall.
Frame 6 has been modified since this picture was taken as it needs to straddle the combined thickness of the 6mm keel and the two 6mm doublers as I incorrectly failed to notice this when I was cutting the templates.
This gives a total of 8 bulkheads (including the transom). All bulkheads will be cut from 4mm birch plywood.
Bob.
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These are the remaining bulkheads (and the transom) that need to be cut to add to Frame 1 and Frame 2 that are already fitted to the keel.
Frame 5 and the rear cabin wall drawings have been combined as this Sprite Plus is being built with an integrated cabin and not a variant with lift-off superstructure so it does not need a separate cabin wall.
Frame 6 has been modified since this picture was taken as it needs to straddle the combined thickness of the 6mm keel and the two 6mm doublers as I incorrectly failed to notice this when I was cutting the templates.
This gives a total of 8 bulkheads (including the transom). All bulkheads will be cut from 4mm birch plywood.
It will only be used for "invited" pushing and genuine rescue work Chris - but hopefully it will be used a lot more often for pleasure driving!
Making the bulkhead templates and transferring them onto 4mm birch plywood comes next.
Bob.
Look what I found in my workshop(shed) this morning !
I have been using-up my supply of old glues and the JP aliphatic still works OK, but it really does leave quite a dirty yellow stain.
Although I used to use this glue quite a lot in the past, I don't remember it being quite this dark a colour, but I don't have much left before I start on the next opened bottle of PVA that I used when building my Kopy Kommander.
Luckily the areas that I am using this glue in will either be hidden or out of sight when the boat is finished.
As you can see, I have not cut-out the bulkhead (Frame 2) as it is so close to the blunt nose ( Frame 1) and given one of the boats intended uses (recovery) I may even add a couple of additional braces in this area between these two Frames to further reinforce the blunt nose as it will become the mount for the "pusher plate" when I get around to adding one at a later date.
One of the two 4mm brace's that I cut to fit on either side of the 4mm flat bow former can be seen in the bottom left of the picture. These will be fitted next before I make the templates for all the other bulkheads (Frames) and transom.
These are a lot of bulkheads (Frames) in this fairly short 30" long boat (8 including the transom), so this is going to be one very strong and twist free little boat.
Bob.
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Look what I found in my workshop(shed) this morning !
I have been using-up my supply of old glues and the JP aliphatic still works OK, but it really does leave quite a dirty yellow stain.
Although I used to use this glue quite a lot in the past, I don't remember it being quite this dark a colour, but I don't have much left before I start on the next opened bottle of PVA that I used when building my Kopy Kommander.
Luckily the areas that I am using this glue in will either be hidden or out of sight when the boat is finished.
As you can see, I have not cut-out the bulkhead (Frame 2) as it is so close to the blunt nose ( Frame 1) and given one of the boats intended uses (recovery) I may even add a couple of additional braces in this area between these two Frames to further reinforce the blunt nose as it will become the mount for the "pusher plate" when I get around to adding one at a later date.
One of the two 4mm brace's that I cut to fit on either side of the 4mm flat bow former can be seen in the bottom left of the picture. These will be fitted next before I make the templates for all the other bulkheads (Frames) and transom.
These are a lot of bulkheads (Frames) in this fairly short 30" long boat (8 including the transom), so this is going to be one very strong and twist free little boat.
Looking good Bob. You mentioned the thickness of the keel at 6mm earlier. I use that thickness, and for doublers even with my smaller builds, because and especially for M5 prop shafts, it leaves plenty of meat on each side once it has been channeled out/drilled.
Also it gives plenty of gluing area for the hull skins. Because of the low height of the keel it doesn't add much weight and it is low down anyway which is good. Sanding the total of 18mm is hard work though and gives my PermaGrit blocks a hard time which is why I had to buy another!
Looking good Bob. You mentioned the thickness of the keel at 6mm earlier. I use that thickness, and for doublers even with my smaller builds, because and especially for M5 prop shafts, it leaves plenty of meat on each side once it has been channeled out/drilled.
Also it gives plenty of gluing area for the hull skins. Because of the low height of the keel it doesn't add much weight and it is low down anyway which is good. Sanding the total of 18mm is hard work though and gives my PermaGrit blocks a hard time which is why I had to buy another!
I have used the drawings provided by Chris to make my card (cereal packet) templates using small pieces of masking tape to hold them onto the cardboard as I cut them out.
The second pictures shows the "cut lines" that I added to the plywood that I used when I cut them out on my bandsaw.
All the 6mm doublers are now cut and fitted to the keel.
Bob.
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I have used the drawings provided by Chris to make my card (cereal packet) templates using small pieces of masking tape to hold them onto the cardboard as I cut them out.
The second pictures shows the "cut lines" that I added to the plywood that I used when I cut them out on my bandsaw.
All the 6mm doublers are now cut and fitted to the keel.
In-between knocking-up a simple "orange box" stand for the LesRo Sportsman this afternoon, I have just drawn all the other doublers onto some 6mm plywood.
I will add the "cut lines" that I will be using to get the best access for the bandsaw and get them cut out and fitted onto the keel.
When I was sorting-out some scrap ply and soft wood off-cuts to make the basic stand for the Sportsman, I have put some aside ready to make one for the Sprite Plus so that it will be ready to use once I get the bottom skins fitted.
........but the next job will be to make the templates for the bulkheads and then find some 4mm birch ply to cut them from.
Bob.
In-between knocking-up a simple "orange box" stand for the LesRo Sportsman this afternoon, I have just drawn all the other doublers onto some 6mm plywood.
I will add the "cut lines" that I will be using to get the best access for the bandsaw and get them cut out and fitted onto the keel.
When I was sorting-out some scrap ply and soft wood off-cuts to make the basic stand for the Sportsman, I have put some aside ready to make one for the Sprite Plus so that it will be ready to use once I get the bottom skins fitted.
........but the next job will be to make the templates for the bulkheads and then find some 4mm birch ply to cut them from.
Hi Chris,
You drew the plans for this Sprite Plus with a 6mm keel.
I think I may cut all the doublers from 6mm ply as well - including those at the front of the boat to make sure that this is one tough chunky little boat that can be used as a pusher tug when needed with no doubts about its strength.
After I cut the keel, I sliced out the prop shaft slot and carefully assembled the 6mm doublers around it, making sure that the keel at that point remanned nice and flat.
The idea worked a treat, so I sliced the keel again further back to open the slot for the rudder and repeated securing the two sections of the keel between the rearmost 6mm doublers leaving the opening clear for the rudder housing.
If I make another Sprite Plus, I would not cut the keel out in one piece again, I would cut it in the three sections I have just mentioned.
It would save a lot of wood, and be much easier to cut out on a bandsaw.
As a matter of interest - the keel on the Sea Commander is only 4mm,,,,,,
Bob.
You drew the plans for this Sprite Plus with a 6mm keel.
I think I may cut all the doublers from 6mm ply as well - including those at the front of the boat to make sure that this is one tough chunky little boat that can be used as a pusher tug when needed with no doubts about its strength.
After I cut the keel, I sliced out the prop shaft slot and carefully assembled the 6mm doublers around it, making sure that the keel at that point remanned nice and flat.
The idea worked a treat, so I sliced the keel again further back to open the slot for the rudder and repeated securing the two sections of the keel between the rearmost 6mm doublers leaving the opening clear for the rudder housing.
If I make another Sprite Plus, I would not cut the keel out in one piece again, I would cut it in the three sections I have just mentioned.
It would save a lot of wood, and be much easier to cut out on a bandsaw.
As a matter of interest - the keel on the Sea Commander is only 4mm,,,,,,
All good stuff Bob. Great minds think alike! I think the builds were always going to morph as we went along! What works on a smaller model often doesn't on a larger one.
Didn't want to go too mad with e.g. having curved cabin sides etc. as I think it is nice to keep largely to the original design and to keep the build simple and so that folks can recognise the heritage (even though the Sprite is quite rare) rather than it being a completely new model. Using angles does that.
I don't know why I separated Bulkhead 5 and the cabin wall - well I do, I was thinking about my usual lift-off superstructure! Of course now I'm using a fixed superstructure again so it will be in one piece like yours.
All good stuff Bob. Great minds think alike! I think the builds were always going to morph as we went along! What works on a smaller model often doesn't on a larger one.
Didn't want to go too mad with e.g. having curved cabin sides etc. as I think it is nice to keep largely to the original design and to keep the build simple and so that folks can recognise the heritage (even though the Sprite is quite rare) rather than it being a completely new model. Using angles does that.
I don't know why I separated Bulkhead 5 and the cabin wall - well I do, I was thinking about my usual lift-off superstructure! Of course now I'm using a fixed superstructure again so it will be in one piece like yours.
Thanks Chris, that looks interesting.
I had already decided to make a “change of direction” in the cabin sides to follow the line of the deck edge at bulkhead 5 and will modify bulkheads 6,7 and 8 accordingly to fit.
A partial saw cut in the cabin sides at this point (ala Rapier) will help to give a positive direction change.
Bulkhead 5 will also be extended to the cabin top and replace the false rear cabin wall that would be needed for a “lift-off” superstructure.
My build will have a fully integrated construction with only the cabin roof and the rear deck well being removable for access.
I will add a curvature to the top of bulkhead 5 to align with the roof formers that I will add to the cabin roof base to give a nice shape to the lift-out cabin roof plug.
At the same time I may add a little rake to the front of the cabin sides before making the two halves of the front cabin windows to fit.
This is going to be quite a “chunky” little model.
I may make bulkhead 1 even thicker and sink a pair of M5 captive inserts into it so I can screw on an optional “pusher platform” to alternate with the standard blunt front, but I will decide this “at the time”.
Your drawings has certainly given us some things to think about and may well spawn several different “off-spring” variants.
Bob.
I had already decided to make a “change of direction” in the cabin sides to follow the line of the deck edge at bulkhead 5 and will modify bulkheads 6,7 and 8 accordingly to fit.
A partial saw cut in the cabin sides at this point (ala Rapier) will help to give a positive direction change.
Bulkhead 5 will also be extended to the cabin top and replace the false rear cabin wall that would be needed for a “lift-off” superstructure.
My build will have a fully integrated construction with only the cabin roof and the rear deck well being removable for access.
I will add a curvature to the top of bulkhead 5 to align with the roof formers that I will add to the cabin roof base to give a nice shape to the lift-out cabin roof plug.
At the same time I may add a little rake to the front of the cabin sides before making the two halves of the front cabin windows to fit.
This is going to be quite a “chunky” little model.
I may make bulkhead 1 even thicker and sink a pair of M5 captive inserts into it so I can screw on an optional “pusher platform” to alternate with the standard blunt front, but I will decide this “at the time”.
Your drawings has certainly given us some things to think about and may well spawn several different “off-spring” variants.
Here you go.
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This project is going the same way as the Stiletto/Rapier one! That started as just drawing up the frames and ended up as a bigger redesign!
With me just mentioning the parallel sides I was working on the frames and the cabin/cockpit sides started to grate on me. 😮
So, I've angled them, just a bit to follow the shape of the deck edge, but still straight pieces to keep things simple to echo the original design. Similar to the Stiletto/Rapier project. Now I've thought about it there's no going back! 😁
I'll draw it up a bit more and you can see what you think.
This project is going the same way as the Stiletto/Rapier one! That started as just drawing up the frames and ended up as a bigger redesign!
With me just mentioning the parallel sides I was working on the frames and the cabin/cockpit sides started to grate on me. 😮
So, I've angled them, just a bit to follow the shape of the deck edge, but still straight pieces to keep things simple to echo the original design. Similar to the Stiletto/Rapier project. Now I've thought about it there's no going back! 😁
I'll draw it up a bit more and you can see what you think.
To a large extent, yes Bob. I say that as I repositioned the last frame before the transom as one was required in front of the well and I respaced the other frames accordingly as far as the rear of the cabin.
But it will be easy enough to add that in as an extra frame in your build method or even use my spacing and alter the frames accordingly. Because of the parallel design of the superstructure the only thing that changes is the beam so it's not a biggie and I'm about to do it again now for my frames to suit my fixed superstructure, albeit it off a flat deck.
To a large extent, yes Bob. I say that as I repositioned the last frame before the transom as one was required in front of the well and I respaced the other frames accordingly as far as the rear of the cabin.
But it will be easy enough to add that in as an extra frame in your build method or even use my spacing and alter the frames accordingly. Because of the parallel design of the superstructure the only thing that changes is the beam so it's not a biggie and I'm about to do it again now for my frames to suit my fixed superstructure, albeit it off a flat deck.
Will your outboard motor mods only affect the keel shape at the rear of the boat Chris?
I realise that it will have no rudder stand or prop shaft slot, but is it otherwise the same?
Bob.
Going to be a bit of a wait for the outboard, 2 to 3 weeks, so I will get the prop that I forgot to order at the same time.
In the meantime I will finish the drawings except for finalising the dimensions at the stern.
Suits me really as whilst I'm tempted to start building I can continue with my Faun and other builds.
Don't know if it shows clearly but I've pretty much decided how to build the stern so that it will take the TFL outboard. Once it arrives I will make any changes required. The design is basically the usual well for an outboard but I've had to split it with a central raised part to which the motor will be bolted. Because the motor isn't very high and has to be mounted low there is another little well the width of the mounting which is even lower and below the chines. It will probably get covered in water at a standstill and slow speeds but that won't be a problem.
What I'm going to do is build the stern first and separately so that I can iron out any problems and if I have to rebuild it that's no problem. It can then be fitted to the remainder of the hull.
I'm sticking with building off a flat deck but have now decided to go back to a fixed superstructure which means I've got to alter the frames again!
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Don't know if it shows clearly but I've pretty much decided how to build the stern so that it will take the TFL outboard. Once it arrives I will make any changes required. The design is basically the usual well for an outboard but I've had to split it with a central raised part to which the motor will be bolted. Because the motor isn't very high and has to be mounted low there is another little well the width of the mounting which is even lower and below the chines. It will probably get covered in water at a standstill and slow speeds but that won't be a problem.
What I'm going to do is build the stern first and separately so that I can iron out any problems and if I have to rebuild it that's no problem. It can then be fitted to the remainder of the hull.
I'm sticking with building off a flat deck but have now decided to go back to a fixed superstructure which means I've got to alter the frames again!
Outboard has been ordered and I should get it in the next few days and so I can finalise the dimensions for mounting it. There isn't much room to manoeuvre between the top of the mounting plate and the underside of the motor casing and there is also the steering rods to accommodate, pretty much there though now. Whilst the outboard does have some angle adjustment I've also added the stand-off bracket which gives more adjustment, including up and down.
I did forget the flippin-floppin prop though! A prop up to 48mm dia. can be accommodated but I'm going for a 36mm initially. That means I don't have to drop the outboard too low in the water, though the props are semi-submersible. The bracket means I can adjust height for the best performance.
I don't know about you guys but I tend to do my best thinking when I wake up and before I get up or maybe having a shave! Used to do that when working and still do with my model boat builds and drawings. Many a problem solved that way that wasn't the day before or staring at a drawing.
Been that way with the Sprite and only this morning I was thinking of modifications to the stern and for fitting the outboard.
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Outboard has been ordered and I should get it in the next few days and so I can finalise the dimensions for mounting it. There isn't much room to manoeuvre between the top of the mounting plate and the underside of the motor casing and there is also the steering rods to accommodate, pretty much there though now. Whilst the outboard does have some angle adjustment I've also added the stand-off bracket which gives more adjustment, including up and down.
I did forget the flippin-floppin prop though! A prop up to 48mm dia. can be accommodated but I'm going for a 36mm initially. That means I don't have to drop the outboard too low in the water, though the props are semi-submersible. The bracket means I can adjust height for the best performance.
I don't know about you guys but I tend to do my best thinking when I wake up and before I get up or maybe having a shave! Used to do that when working and still do with my model boat builds and drawings. Many a problem solved that way that wasn't the day before or staring at a drawing.
Been that way with the Sprite and only this morning I was thinking of modifications to the stern and for fitting the outboard.
Thanks Will, we should have three different versions of the Sprite on the water ready for next year (?), your original, my Plus variant and the outboard motor powered version from Chris!
I am hoping to get a copy of the modified drawings for the outboard motor powered variant from Chris, as I think it looks by far the best.
Making a second version will be much easier and faster that the first one will be !
Bob.
Thanks Will, we should have three different versions of the Sprite on the water ready for next year (?), your original, my Plus variant and the outboard motor powered version from Chris!
I am hoping to get a copy of the modified drawings for the outboard motor powered variant from Chris, as I think it looks by far the best.
Making a second version will be much easier and faster that the first one will be !
Chris, I like the added shaped bow, that will make quite a difference to the blunt look that the standard Sprite has.
Bob, sounds like you're making good progress on your Sprite build.
It will be great to see them on the water (mine too, eventually), as the Sprite is such an uncommonly seen model.
Will
One thing that is worthy of note, is the built-in stand (included in the keel shape) for the rudder post.
This will certainly ensure that the rudder is mounted completely upright as well as protecting the rudder post.
Cutting the keel (and rear doublers) out on my bandsaw did waste a little wood as it cannot turn as quickly as a fret-saw to include the rudder post support shape, but I really like the idea and I am pleased to have it on my Sprite Plus.
Bob.
One thing that is worthy of note, is the built-in stand (included in the keel shape) for the rudder post.
This will certainly ensure that the rudder is mounted completely upright as well as protecting the rudder post.
Cutting the keel (and rear doublers) out on my bandsaw did waste a little wood as it cannot turn as quickly as a fret-saw to include the rudder post support shape, but I really like the idea and I am pleased to have it on my Sprite Plus.
I have cut the keel and the two pairs of 6mm rear doublers and fitted them together.
When I am home next I will cut the front 4 pairs of front doublers to complete the keel assembly.
The keel is cut from 6mm plywood, my Sea Commander keel is only cut from 4mm plywood - this is going to be one tough chunky boat!
Bob.
Yeah, I've found that I've had to make a few changes with the front windows on the Faun. I'd assumed that the joint in the vee would be at right angles to the deck i.e. straight up, but it isn't. The joint in fact is angled towards the sides (which you probably know from your earlier builds) and looks as though it is the same angle as the windows lean back.
I didn't realise this when doing the drawings but will certainly take that into account when building the Sprite Plus. Windows are better made by trial and error anyway, even the ones on my Faireys which were flat.
Yeah, I've found that I've had to make a few changes with the front windows on the Faun. I'd assumed that the joint in the vee would be at right angles to the deck i.e. straight up, but it isn't. The joint in fact is angled towards the sides (which you probably know from your earlier builds) and looks as though it is the same angle as the windows lean back.
I didn't realise this when doing the drawings but will certainly take that into account when building the Sprite Plus. Windows are better made by trial and error anyway, even the ones on my Faireys which were flat.
Yup, an alternative nose profile could be a good call - especially if a pusher frame can be added when required for recovery work.
I will check the "V" shaped front cabin window as I build because (as you suggest) things do get changed during the build if they can be "improved".
The design is coming alive with a mind of its own..........
Bob.
Morning Bob
I've made good progress on the drawings and it's not too far away from being ready to build.
I've decided to go with a lift-off superstructure which can always be held in place with fixings or magnets, though it would be easy enough to modify to your preferred construction. I'm also using a flat deck to build off and can add camber to the deck afterwards.
The motor is really designed for race boats and tunnel hulls and being quite short in height it's going to sit low in the water. This had me scratching my head but I'm there with a design now. In fact I've gone as far as I can now using pictures and diagrams with dimensions and so I'm just about to order a motor so I can finalise the design. Well until I start building of course when I'm bound to change things as I go along!
One thing you might be interested in. With adding a vee window I thought that the bow didn't sit right with it - I think you mentioned this earlier? Especially with the model being bigger now I think the straight bow is a bit much, it's Okish with a flat window.
So I've drawn a partly pointed bow at the same angle as the window. It takes away some of the pushability (made up word! 😊) without an add on but as it's going to be used mainly for fun that's what I'm going to do. The bow former/frame is the same it's just a bigger piece of balsa required to shape from!
Chris
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I've made good progress on the drawings and it's not too far away from being ready to build.
I've decided to go with a lift-off superstructure which can always be held in place with fixings or magnets, though it would be easy enough to modify to your preferred construction. I'm also using a flat deck to build off and can add camber to the deck afterwards.
The motor is really designed for race boats and tunnel hulls and being quite short in height it's going to sit low in the water. This had me scratching my head but I'm there with a design now. In fact I've gone as far as I can now using pictures and diagrams with dimensions and so I'm just about to order a motor so I can finalise the design. Well until I start building of course when I'm bound to change things as I go along!
One thing you might be interested in. With adding a vee window I thought that the bow didn't sit right with it - I think you mentioned this earlier? Especially with the model being bigger now I think the straight bow is a bit much, it's Okish with a flat window.
So I've drawn a partly pointed bow at the same angle as the window. It takes away some of the pushability (made up word! 😊) without an add on but as it's going to be used mainly for fun that's what I'm going to do. The bow former/frame is the same it's just a bigger piece of balsa required to shape from!
Hi Chris,
It's not until I actually cut the cabin templates out that I could see that this is going to be a really "chunky" looking boat - ideal for its intended duel purpose of occasional recovery .....and more often fun running!
It also looks like being a really good candidate for that large outboard motor that you have in mind, so let me know when you have made the changes at the stern to mount it as I think it could be a winner!
Bob.
It's not until I actually cut the cabin templates out that I could see that this is going to be a really "chunky" looking boat - ideal for its intended duel purpose of occasional recovery .....and more often fun running!
It also looks like being a really good candidate for that large outboard motor that you have in mind, so let me know when you have made the changes at the stern to mount it as I think it could be a winner!
Glad you like them Bob. As I said before it will be great seeing it taking shape and hearing what you think about the bigger version with a few tweaks.
And seeing it on the water, though that is a little way off yet.
Glad you like them Bob. As I said before it will be great seeing it taking shape and hearing what you think about the bigger version with a few tweaks.
And seeing it on the water, though that is a little way off yet.
Sprite Plus.
A mysterious tube was found in my chosen 'safe place" when I got home today - a pleasant find after spending some time in the dentist chair!
Inside the tube was some very professional drawings from Chris for the Sprite Plus.
Tonight I was able to take a couple of old Oatabix boxes (from my stash of old cereal boxes) and once flattened and joined together (where needed) with masking tape I was able to make some templates for the keel, the doublers and the cabin sides.
The keel has already been drawn onto some 6mm birch plywood and I am hoping to have enough time before going way again to make at least some of the bulkhead templates.
Many thanks Chris, I am really looking forward to cutting some wood for this model 👍
Bob.
A mysterious tube was found in my chosen 'safe place" when I got home today - a pleasant find after spending some time in the dentist chair!
Inside the tube was some very professional drawings from Chris for the Sprite Plus.
Tonight I was able to take a couple of old Oatabix boxes (from my stash of old cereal boxes) and once flattened and joined together (where needed) with masking tape I was able to make some templates for the keel, the doublers and the cabin sides.
The keel has already been drawn onto some 6mm birch plywood and I am hoping to have enough time before going way again to make at least some of the bulkhead templates.
Many thanks Chris, I am really looking forward to cutting some wood for this model 👍
Hi Chris,
…..you could quickly knock-up a Remora in between all your other lengthy scheduled projects and have a lot of fun driving it while you wait for the Faireys to come out to play…..😂
Bob.
…..you could quickly knock-up a Remora in between all your other lengthy scheduled projects and have a lot of fun driving it while you wait for the Faireys to come out to play…..😂
I'm going to stop coming on forums! 🤔 I keep, getting distracted (in a good way 😀) from my primary aim of finishing my Fairey builds, which have also increased in number to the current 7!
I want to make a start on my water-jet project and then the Sprite Plus but I think they will be a few weeks away yet? I'm on the verge of ordering the outboard motor though.
I'm going to stop coming on forums! 🤔 I keep, getting distracted (in a good way 😀) from my primary aim of finishing my Fairey builds, which have also increased in number to the current 7!
I want to make a start on my water-jet project and then the Sprite Plus but I think they will be a few weeks away yet? I'm on the verge of ordering the outboard motor though.
I will build the prototype Sprite Plus with a conventional shaft drive (already bought the prop-shaft !) and look forward to seeing how it performs.
An outboard powered version would be nice too….but that will have to be for “another day” (after I have seen how yours performs!).
You can also get on and build yourself a Remora now and enjoy its spectacular performance - already fully developed and ready to go (once built).
Bob.
Yes, that's the one Bob. I've used Noahs Ark for my waterjet and they were very good to deal with.
Unfortunately there's not much available out there now.