DESIGN DETAILS 



3-5 



which disturb the molded-in gel coat finish. Fig. 3-9 indicates the same basic joint with a 

 molded -in coaming and the joint in the shell, rather than the deck. As previously mentioned, 

 choice of joint location depends on molding procedure. 



PRE-MOLDED 

 DECK LAMI NATE 



1 PLY OF MAT IN 

 LAP JOINT 



THROUGH BOLTS 



P RE-MOLDED 

 SHELL LAMINATE 



RUBBING STRIP 



POS I T I ONI NG STRI p 

 IF DESIRED 



Fig. 3-7. Deck Edge Connection - 

 Combining Bonding and Mechanical 

 Fastening 



Figs. 3-10, 3-11 and 3-12 indicate three 

 connections which have been successfully used, 

 and which have the advantage of simplicity of 

 construction. 



PRE-MOLDED DECK 

 ,SANDWICH CONSTRUCTION 



WOOD COAMI NG 



VEE OR SCARF 

 JOI NT 



FIBERGLASS JOINT 

 RE I NFORCEMENT 



TROWELED OR PRE-FOAMED 

 RESIN CORE 



PRE-MOLDED 

 SHELL LAMINATE 



Fig. 3-8. Deck Edge Connection - 

 Sandwich Deck with Wood Coaming 

 and Joint in Deck 



Fig. 3-13 indicates a method of connecting a sandwich construction interior deck, such 

 as a cockpit deck or cabin sole, to the shell. Notice that the connection is a temporary one, 

 so that the deck may be removed for inspection and cleaning of the bilges. 



Gunwale 



Gunwale connections on small open boats vary considerably with molding method and 

 designer's preference. Four common methods are shown in Figs. 3-14 through 3-17. 



Fig. 3-14 indicates a common detail for gunwale and shell as one continuous piece. 

 The edge of the laminate is dressed after removal from the mold. Depending on the 

 molding method used, the gunwale may be flanged inboard or outboard. This is considered 

 the simplest and best of the details shown, when flanged outboard. 



Fig. 3-15 indicates, in effect, a conventional wood construction applied to a fiberglass 

 hull. It is chosen partly on an appearance basis and partly because the wood rubbing strip 

 may be easily replaced. This construction will, however, increase maintenance problems 

 on what should be a relatively maintenance free boat. 



Fig. 3-16 indicates two types of aluminum extrusions bolted to the shell to serve as a 

 gunwale. The cross-sectional shape of the aluminum may, of course, vary widely. 



Fig. 3-17 indicates an all fiberglass construction suitable for a shell molded in one 

 piece. The gunwale piece is molded separately and bonded or bolted to the completed hull. 



Shell at Keel 



In some instances the main hull laminate is made in two parts and is then joined to- 

 gether. This connection is of such importance that some designers use a combination of 

 mechanical fastening and resin bonding. Special care must be taken when using through 

 bolting in the shell below the waterline, since this is a possible source of annoying leakage. 



