> Howdy folks! Just found this board today. I'm looking for feedback on
> building a CLC West River 180 as light as possible without significantly
> compromising strength.I ordered the kit 7-2-99, so I need some feedback
> quick if I made a mistake! I ordered the "racing" option, which
> goes from 6oz tape to 4oz, and substitutes microballoons for flour, and
> substitutes 3mm wood for the standard 4mm. Any further advice/
> comment/critique is welcome. Primary use is lakes, rivers, (Mississippi
> & St.Croix in Minnesota)and an occaisional big water trip along the
> North shore of Lake Superior. Am I making a mistake going with the 3mm
> hull? I know Lake Superior can get wild, but I'm the type who would get
> the hell off the water rather than battle 6 foot swells.Any other specific
> suggestions for what I can do in the building process to make sure she
> comes out light? (and right!) I look forward to your suggestions. Thanks
> in advance! Mark

I like a light boat too. I usually refer to overbult boats as "Summer Camp Construction" .... something a couple of oversized 10 year olds could not destroy. If the boat is used properly you can build it light and get away with it. My Patuxant came off the roof of my car when a drunk rear ended me. It punched through a camper shell on a truck in fromt of me. I still use the boat and she looks great!

This fillet and bulkhead construction is really too much. Just stick the tape down and soak it good with epoxy. Get some air bags for flotation and enjoy going fast. Tape the outside seams and fill the joint with micros as filler. I had had expedition boats. They are an overkill for recreational paddleing. If I took another trip in a kayak I would rent a boat for the week. Good Luck