I don't know that there is an ideal space. 1/2" to 1" should be fine. My original reason for not connecting to the bottom was because it is easier not to and I fealt that it would create a hard spot in the hull which might cause some damage around the joint if run over a rock. This is my same reasoning for using foam in the bulkheads. While I am no longer convinced by the hard-spot idea, the fact that is easier is good enough for me.

> Thanks Nick. Have you found an ideal clearance between the cheek plate and
> the hull? I would think that a very small clearance might increase the
> possibility of pinching a finger (hand, cheek!, etc), while too large a
> gap might increase the possibility of getting a foot hung up on an exit.
> Is there a downside to connecting the cheek plates to hull and deck? It
> does look like it would be a major pain get the fit correct between a
> deck/hull connection.