Building The Dillon Sport C
Page One

Construction begins with the tunnel sides, which are actually much more than just that. They are a cross-section of virtually the entire hull.

I have cut away as much wood as I dare, reducing as much weight as possible.

The tunnel sides are set up with two temorary cross members. I've also put the bow beam in place to help out.

Bulkheads and transom are added, along with associated cross-beams.

Again, plenty of wood is cut out of the bulkheads for lightening.

Lots and lots of wood is cut out. More and more as we approach the bow.

All of the bulkheads and beams temporarily in place.

At this point, I squared and leveled the structure and secured the tunnel sides to the sawhorses.

Next step, remove all bulkheads and then glue them on permanently.

The basic structure is glued together. And now the stringers are installed in the tunnel.

Continuing the weight reducing effort, the stringers are 3/4" square at the stern, then are reduced to 1/2" x 3/4" amidships and remain that size to the bow. Some of the edges have also been chamfered away to reduce that last possible ounce.

NOTE: I didn't notice it at first, but the beam at bulkhead #1 is horribly bowed under the bending pressure of the stringers. I had to release the stringer ends from the bow beam, shore up the #1 beam and glue the stringers back down again.

The main section of tunnel plank is installed, with a short piece still needed at the stern to complete the job.

The tunnel finished, time to start adding stringers to the sponsons.

A scrap piece of plywood spanning the sponson tips helps keep things in line.

The sheer stringers are installed. Now only the chines are needed and then it's time to wrap the sponsons in plywood.

But that will have to wait until next year. Merry Christmas, everyone. See you in 2012.

It's the New Year, time to get back to what's most important in life: building racing boats!!

The chines are on and have been beveled. Almost ready for the lower sides and the pads.

The lower sides and sponson pads are installed. Some trimming, filling and sanding to do, then time to finish the bottom.

Sanded and cleaned up, ready for the epoxy bottom finish.