Constructing the GX-1Fuselage

Designed by Bob Gray; Construction by Bob Gray and Corey Hughes (owner)

April 2005—?

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Page 3 of 5

Click on additional page numbers for continuing photos . Construction story and  eventual sailing

Reports will be forthcoming.

 

GX-1 INDEX PAGE 1        CONSTRUCTION PHOTOS PAGE 2

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Bob loves to make custom tools

Measuring the variable pitch sides

Cutting the variable tapers

Attaching the springboard nuts

Measuring for the side stringers

The stringers are on

An overall review of the GX-1 taking final frame shape

MOMENT OF TRUTH—first weight test, passed with flying colors! My oldest son Aaron gives me a hand and said he is ready for his boat. The inside of the forward triangle is sealed and ready for the outside skins.

Allowing for the top skin, the GX-1 total fuselage weight came in at just short of 65 lbs!

Framing for the triangle transition piece

Now we wait for the Gougeon to set

I will start some sanding and nail hole repair over the next week, then the skins will be final router trimmed and the spring board construction will begin. The top fuselage skin will be installed last, after the steering is completed.

The steering, which we believe will be unique to the American iceboat scene, will be copied from the Swedish Class 3 Skeeters. It is ultra light, fully adjustable for leg length and unbelievably simple.

Hannah, our oldest Granddaughter and Aaron, the youngest Grandson, are anxious to start iceboating.