The Gougeon Brothers on Boat Construction - WEST SYSTEM Epoxy

Chapter 25 – Compounded Plywood Construction 301
Place belts 2' apart
Figure 25-13 Folding up with plastic strapping or belts.
Gradually tighten belts
Figure 25-14 Folding up a 30' trimaran hull with drawstrings.
Note that the sheer clamps have been beveled at the stern so
they can be clamped together when the hull is folded up.
Place deck jig
over sheer
Secure deck jig and
remove straps
more people to help support it because as it is being
folded up, the bracing that was giving support is no
longer effective because of the shape change. Once you
have positioned the deck jig, the troubles are over
because the once floppy hull becomes quite rigid and
stable. Position temporary supports from the floor to
the deck jig to hold the newly-shaped hull firmly for
further work.
Another way to fold panels is to use the plastic strapping
and clips that have been developed to replace
metal strapping in packing and shipping. Loop a series
of these straps around the hull about 2' (600mm) apart
down its length, arranging them so that you have easy
access to the clips. Force the sheer inward and take up
on the strap. Work up and down the hull, tightening
each a little at a time, gradually increasing the tension.
<strong>The</strong> boat will slowly and gently fold up until eventually
two people will be able to drop the deck jig in place.
Things will look bad until the jig is installed, so don’t
be discouraged. With the jig in position, remove the
straps and begin work on the interior.