Originally Posted by
wolfgangb
Hi,
I am currently about to finish my 15 ft Vee-bottomed racing runabout replica (my fourth self-designed race-boat build, in frame, side planking on).
For materials choice, sizing, fasteners etc. (called scantlings), I recommend you get yourself:
"The Elements of Boat Strength, for Builders,designers and Owners" by renowned nautical architect Dave Gerr. (McGraw-Hill, available from Wooden Boat Shop and other suppliers of things nautical.
Checked my design with his formulae and recommendations and found bottom planking thickness lacking. The maths are easy and can be applied to any shape/speed range, due to a great formula/tables approach developed by the author. Only limited applicability for catamarans/hydros.
Good way to avoid later disappointments.
Good luck and lots of patience - not too much, because the cost of wood, epoxy, and fasteners is reaching astronomical proportions.
Wolfgang (South Africa)