Body Panel Fitting Issue

[Justin Lewis]

Originally Posted by Eric Anderson

I think I will need a new tub. A week ago I cut mine based on the manual and video. In order to get it off the frame after the first body fit I’ll need to expand the gear leg holes to about 4” diameter. My warning to new builders, cut the tub based on Wade’s photos above, NOT the builder’s manual, video and pre-etched gear holes.

Eric,

Twice, I fully believed I needed a new tub. I don't know your situation but twice I was wrong.

I split tub based on the video and it luckily worked out for me. Basically I used the "pre-etched" holes as a reference and split it roughly 1/2 inch from the inside aft edge of the etched hole.

Before this conversation I hadn't paid much attention to the 46 inches you referenced but I just measured mine and it's about that or a smidge less. What did you determine your length is?

One thing to keep in mind is that it's just fiberglass. I know it's annoying but truth is that it's usually easy to bond back together if necessary. Personally, I don't worry about drilling holes or grinding to much material away knowing that it can be fixed. I obviously have no idea what you're up against so this may not be the case with you but crossing my fingers for you that it will work out.