For anyone to whom it may be of interest, esp Dicky! here goes with my build log of the above. I'll tell it like it is /was, which maybe of some help to newcomers or anyone who may want to build this model. As I'm not the quickest of builders I thought it wise to get well into the model before posting so that the time between posts and pics are not too great. Downside of this of course is that any hints, tips, or constructive criticism that members would like to throw in or advise on, (which are always welcome as I'm also on here to learn), may come a little too late for this build - but - please feel free to chuck in your twopenworth, hopefully there's always another model to make and advice can always be put to good use. Flattery isn't the name of the game.
As is usual for me I'll start with the boring bits zzzzzzzzzzzzzz!
First pic, needed extra table space for easier access to both sides of the model so made this sturdy but level and removable extension.
Now the stand .......... gripping stuff eh?
I always (well at least three times!) like the stand to hold the hull square, parallel to the keel and to hold the hull rigidly in the exact location everytime without any juggling. (that comes later if I cock up)
Achieving that wasn't at all easy with this hull, the smooth and almost equal curves side to side and fore and aft mean't the base had to replicate the hull shape exactly to prevent movement. There was a slight twist in the keel, front to back, and had to use packers to overcome the variation. Eventually managed to get it spot on but took 2 days.
Noticed by the edge of the spirit level, what looked like a bit of a crack in the rubbing strake - (if that's what it's called) you know the bumper bit around the top of the hull, anyway had a little pick and look see and found this:
Bit of a blow hole /void, decided to check all round by gently tapping the bumper with the tang of a file listening for any difference in resonance -
ah well have plenty of filler
This is what I also use as well of the proprietary car body filler, Chemical Metal - love it - strong, grips really well and can be drilled etc without chipping, many times have found it to be far better in some applications than the more softer putty or body filler, can even build up an edge with it.
That's it for now, will add more soon, ta ta and regards, Tony.