: Two builders recommending using the baseplate, eh?!? Hmmmmmmm -
: that might be the way to go!! If I use the plate, I might as
: well put in small stanchions as well. Better safe than sorry, I
: always say!!

: Thanks guys,

: Sean

You will need the stanchions or the assembly will have considerable flex if you put your weight on the coaming, which you will entering and exiting. Eventually it'll break without them.

While the 3/4" ply is quite strong, it's also very narrow. Even with the base plate anchored and the whole assembly glued it flexes considerably without the stanchions. Done a whole bunch of Tom's boats all with ply coamings and the stanchions add considerable strength.

Bill H.