Rich,

that's exactly what I notice, although my masik is installed. But it does it less than before the keelson was lashed to the ribs and I expect that once I have the chine stringers lashed in, it will be reduced even more. I did figure that when the skin is on and tightened it should keep it all together. At least I hope so. My first trip out wont be far from shore

P

: Peter-I'm working on my first kayak too and noticed the same thing . . about
: a 1/8" or so separation. It seems to happen around the middle of the
: kayak and I'm wondering if once the masik is installed it will hold a bit
: tighter.

: Rich