Third strake no.1 + rudder blade axis + inspection hatches

No more vacations, back to the workforce with some spare time only during evenings.

Build progress has dropped but I try accomplishing something each evening.

I fabricated rudder blade axis from dense plastic, probably PVDF. According to plans it is enough with plywood circles but since I had a piece of thick plastic I decided to turn it into something useful.

It is a very dense material so I plan to drill and tap mounting holes so I can use bolts instead of screws. This piece will hold rudder blade between cheeks and will act as axis of rotation.

Dry fitting the third strake. This one falls into it’s designed position quite easily.

Tonight I beveled and cut gains on this new plank. Taped joint vicinity but did not manage to glue it - I was too tired and it became late.

As I’m approaching to cover midships flotation tanks I need to decide how to solve the issue of inspection hatches. This chamber will be hermetic so there is a need to have access to it during life of the boat.

I also plan to use this space for keeping tools or other stuff.

I don’t like plastic fittings offered on the market for dinghies. I found that Toplicht has a wide range of brass, quite inexpensive portlights which could fit the bill.

Sketching approximate positions where I would install these openings.

I want a classy look on this boat, no cheap plastic fittings. But these brass portlights, even though cheapest in their offer, become substantial cost if I want to install four or even six of them.

I realized that I have oval frames, salvaged from old Pettersen boat. They can do the trick but will require screwdriver to open them.

I will strip them to bare brass, cut some thick acrylic plate and fabricate rubber seals.