: I'm just starting a Sea Tour 13, also my first build, and I've been
: wondering about the same thing so I look forward to the
: discussion. Here's what I've been planning to do. The strong
: back is not the baseline, but it could be used as a reference (I
: think). On the ST 13 the HAB of the keel, of the first section
: is .032'. So why not say the base line is 6" (0.5') above
: the strong back and mount that section so the keel is 0.532'
: above the strong back? In this example the 4th section would be
: mounted with the keel 0.527' above the strong back. Then the
: "floating" sections and the stem and stern can be
: pulled down towards the strong back or pushed up from it until
: they are at the keel offset plus 6" from the strong back.
: Or maybe that is all wrong! BTW, there was a good thread
: recently about establishing reference points off the strong
: back, to check the frame for twist.

: Thanks for asking the question,
: Will

Hi Will,
I have used the strong back as a reference point. Making sure the strong back is level and the stations are also level helps when checking things. I like to use a string line length wise to check the alignment. Your eye is a great tool, if it looks good it usually is. But I don't normally force the stations that are floating to a measured elevation above the strong back. They just form the rocker of the frame from the force the stringers put on them.
Like I have said this is not the only way to build. It has worked for me several times in the past but there is always another way to the end result.
Good luck on the Sea Tour 13.
Clayton Plunkett