When to fix the bow pattern and keel pieces?

[BikerMart]

Instructions for, say, the Amati HMS Vanguard call for the bow pattern and keel pieces to be fixed and then for the final bulkhead fairing to take place. Being careful, of course, not to damage the aforementioned walnut pieces. It strikes me, though, that if those pieces were not in place, the fairing would be easier. Is there any reason not to leave the fixing of those pieces until after fairing is completed?

 

[CaptnBirdseye]

I have to admit i wished i'd done it that way round with my Caldercraft Brig Supply! As you say, it would make fairing the hull soooooo much easier. 

[mtaylor]

Depending on the kit, things might go way south into never-never land.   I'd suggest you take the bow bits and make a temporatry bow out of scrap.  Keeping in the proper plance might be a mental exercise but it should be doable.  After fairing, replace the bow with the kit parts.

[Jaager]

Being at that same point,  I see two conflicting factors in play.  It is much easier to fare the bow without the stem.  Rather than having a notch where the stemson would be, I opted for a stemson that is flush with the bow timbers. But with it being all that is there, the danger and likely outcome is the stemson will be rounded over and not provide a sufficient landing for the stem.  Thinking on it, the wise choice is to attach a temporary sacrificial piece of wood where the stem will be.  Let it take all of the abuse.  I think a bent thicker ribbon of wood may do the trick.

 

I am not being able to resolve a dowel - not dowel  conflict as regards how to attach the stem assembly.   I do not see a need to fix the stem until I am ready to attach the wale, so I can put it off.

[BikerMart]

Thanks for the responses. As mtaylor and Jaager suggested, I think that I will go with the 'sacrificial' stem and keel pieces.