Hello
The kit manufacturer's instructions should not be followed to the letter, they are full of errors and "compromise" solutions.
Even now, in most of the kits plans are not included, only photographs of models made by those who do not care about these details and of course, the plague spreads.
I make (made) models of both, kits and plans (scratch) but the kit ones only served me to take advantage of the accessories and have a global idea of the boat.
Afterwards, I documented myself on the internet as much as possible, but of course, it took a long time to finish each model.
The problem is that this way of working requires much more time than making a kit without considering things.
I have a colleague, who builds his boats by reading the captain's logbook and the navy ordinances!!!!!!, photos and museum plans, etc.
It takes years to finish a ship
Two examples of my friend's work, who also draws his own plans by hand.
The characters are carved in boxwood by himself.
Logically, not all of us have that level of excellence, but it is good to consider some things
https://www.foromodelismonaval.es/download/file.php?id=168076
Cheers