So, lets begin !
This box will look familiar to those familiar with Model Expos's version. I chose this version because of its size: 48 inches or 1219.20 mm long. The only thing taken out was the keel and parts associated with it.
The keel and associated parts come in 3 sections and in pairs that must be glued together to form a 1/4 inch or 6.35 mm thickness. The sections have NOT been glued, but only dry-fitted. We all know about the Lazer cutting that always produces a tiny angle, you should lightly sand or use a Spindle sander to "just" enough to make the sides flat, but do not over do it.
After the glue-up of the Sections, I again dry fitted the 3 sections along with the false Keelson to check for any gaps. Some touch-up sanding on the stem parts were necessary to make the parts mate with no gaps and a tight fit. Again, I have to emphasize at this point not to get carried away with sanding. You want the minimum at this point to make the parts mate well. As we all know, we want a nice snug fit with all parts - but at the same time, being reasonable. This is not a scratch built model and we all know there is just so much you can do.
Lastly, you will see 2 Reference Lines and the Bearding Line laid out (per Bob Hunts Practicum). You will want those lines to line up straight as you can. Which, in my case, the lines matched up well.
I am aware of the one gap in the false keel notch and it will be taken care of later. NO wood filler, but I will fashion a piece to fill the gap.
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In the meantime, I had to order from Amazon some 4 x 4 x 3/4 (102 x 102 20 mm) jeweler Block (heavy) to lay on the sections. Wax paper will be used to sit the sections on as I will be using something like 5 min epoxy or 10 min epoxy to glue JUST the 3 sections. Wood glue for the false Keelson.
Link for Steel Blocks:
