: Before you take it off the forms or decide whether you need to, can
: you use a laser or string to pinpoint exactly where you're off
: and by how much? It will really help you a lot. I'd also suggest
: running a string along the sheer on both sides and then
: measuring the length to see how much you're off in that
: dimension as well. It will help you determine which side you
: need to shorten to get things back. If you don't have a laser
: you can probably find the problem by running a string on either
: side at several locations.

: Look- we're all perfectionists, so do your best- but don't forget
: that almost all of this is above the waterline.

: m

The timing of this post is uncanny. I just posted the EXACT same question on the Chesapeake Light Craft builders forum. I am building a Guillemot L from a CLC kit. I finished my hull last week and just turned it over to start the deck. I have the same issue. The stern is off by about 1/16th - 1/8th of an inch. I am fine with that. It's not even noticeable without the string. The bow, on the other hand, is off by roughly a half inch. The misalignment starts where the stem frame attaches to the strongback.

Here is a pic of the bottom of the hull - just for the heck of it: http://www.flickr.com/photos/nwbarryg/4749606143/sizes/l/in/set-72157624269578771/.

I used the string method to check out the alignment. Here is a photo with the line going from the far wall to my camera tripod: http://www.flickr.com/photos/nwbarryg/4749545005/sizes/l/in/set-72157624269578771/. Note that the full 12mp resolution image is available if you want to see the detail.

Assuming my OCD will not allow me to continue forward, this is how I understand the suggested solution:

1. remove the strongback and frames from the hull
2. cut down the centerline of the bow - i'm guessing about two to two-and-a-half feet
3. cut out the internal stem
4. do some fancy cutting/planing so that two halves align with the centerline as well as with each other
5. glue two halves back together
6. don't bother with a new internal stem - just add an external stem at the end of the process
7. put the strongback and frames back into the hull
8. double check alignment
9. begin stripping deck
10. breath sigh of relief...

Do I have this correct?

Thanks for the feedback!

Thanks again,
Barry