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Building the 23' V-Bottom Skiff - Episode 5: Installing the chines

November 20, 2020 · 24 min · 86K views

What this video covers

Fitting the chine logs on a 23-foot V-bottom skiff requires precise beveling to accommodate the transition where side and bottom planking meet.1:39 Because the bottom planking terminates before reaching the stem, the chine log must be beveled to accept the side planking at varying angles.1:35 To avoid damaging the hull during installation, the chine is bent well inboard before being snapped into position, preventing the bedding compound from scraping off against the side planks.5:56

The process involves marking the chine height with a sliding square and a marker, then using an electric plane to cut the necessary bevels off the boat.7:40 This method proves significantly faster than traditional stem rabbeting, especially on laminated stems where grain direction complicates chisel work.15:17 A custom-cut gauge helps verify the bevel angle during the planing process.13:15 Once the chine is fit and bedded, the crew secures it with clamps and temporary spacers to ensure a fair sweep.22:18

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