The Mounting Jig

I needed a jig that would simplify the assembly of the frames.  Positioning the frames is much easier if you have a jig.  Our jig is built so that the post is exactly 4" in width.  This with happens to be the width of the keel on the Dolphin.  I purposely did this so that I could accurately align the frames along the jig bed.  The post was mounted to a jig slide and is perpendicular to the jig bed on both axis.  Don't worry if your post is slightly off center.  Remember - as long as the post is securely fastened and free from distortion, the same level of error will be true all the way down the jig bed and therefore it does not need to be perfect.  Obviously you want to keep things neat and tidy so be as perpendicular as you possibly can when building the jig.  Once the frame is clamped to the jig, you simply install two temporary supports using screws.  Be sure to used large enough lumber to support the weight of the hull.  In the case of the Dolphin I am using 2" x 2" supports that I obtained from a standard 2" x 4" piece of lumber by ripping it right down the middle.  First  screw in the frame supports to the frame and then screw the frame supports to the sides of the jig bed.  The frame supports will need to sustain the weight of the finished hull so be sure to put two screws in each location that you attach a support member.  You will be removing these screws later once you finish the hull of the boat.

Horizontally Mark the Frame Heights on the Jig Post in Advance

Aligning Frame #1

Clamping Frame 1 to the Jig