Hello! First-time builder and first-time poster to this forum!
I am in the midst of building a Jimmy Skiff II from a kit and I have hit a snag (literally).
The directions indicate that I should dry-fit the panels before installing them. I did that and got it to fit perfectly in place after a bit of sanding and planing. It is worth noting, that in order to place the panels, the instructions state that you must bend them along their length to fit them into place (each panel is slightly longer than the place it will sit, as there is a slot in the forward bulkhead and a slot in the transom to fit the extended tabs of the seat panel).
However, before you permanently install, the instructions state that you must add the seat carlins and the thwart cleats to these panels. These solid lengths of wood extend the length of the seat panel and stiffen the panel significantly.
The result is that I can no longer easily flex the panel to get it into place. It really feels as if I will snap or crack the wood or epoxy if I force it! Any suggestions?
- Deron