I need your suggestions...On my Chesapeake 17, I misread the plans and installed the deckbeam approx. 1 1/2 inches too far aft. Unfortunately, I didn't discover this error until I was getting ready to install the coaming. The problem is that the inside diameter of the coaming pieces(front to back) are larger than the distance between the deckbeam and the aft bulkhead. As I see it, my alternatives are:

1. Install the coaming, line it up with the aft bulkhead and let the front overlap the deckbeam an inch or so...maybe fair it with thickened epoxy for cosmetic purposes. (My girlfriend who will be paddling the boat is 5'4", so the slight restriction in the front of the cockpit size shouldn't be a problem for her. This eliminates problems with spray skirt fit.)

2. Cut the sides of the coaming strips down about an inch to reduce the diameter of the coaming. I would then have to scarf/butt join those cuts before installing. (Potential problems with spray skirt fit?)

Your suggestions would be appreciated.