Hi, first time builder. I am about ready to install the fwd. deck beam, the plans place it 24" from the bow but at that position it is about 3/4" short, it fits best at 22" from bow. Question is should I place it at the 22" mark or at the 24", and if at the 24" should I squeeze the bow to conform to the deck beam or use thickened epoxy to fill in the gap?
For peace of mind, I'd check with Customer Service before altering the placement of any structural components. But I'd think moving that little beam a couple inches forward would be okay. I wouldn't squeeze the bow gunwales together too much, because it's nice to have the reserve bouyancy for lifting over waves.
If I remember right, the main beam (at the front of the cockpit coaming) I got in my kit had enough extra length that I just used the offcut from that to use up in the bow. If you haven't cut that yet, maybe you can do the same. Good luck.
Grant