JEM Watercraft

Building the laker 14 and just curious....do I have to decide about the footpegs (whether I want them or not) before I complete, or can I add them after the fact? Should I just go ahead and do the reinforcing where the footpegs would go?

Also, I am considering a rudder. Should I go ahead and do the end pours as per the plans even if I am not sure if I will use a rudder or not?

The Lakers have a fairly open cockpit so it is easy enough to add footpegs later. Also it is a good idea to get the seat set up and try it out first so you have a good idea where to locate them. If you have pegs with a big adjustment range longitudinal location is not so important but height can be.

My Laker 13 tracks and steers well and does not need a rudder and I suspect the 14 would be similar - should be some comments along from builders soon . Even without a rudder a small end pour is a good idea if you want to put carry ropes through the ends.

I'd plan for a rudder. It won't hurt anything having that extra reinforcement.

Installing footbraces is a little easier to do with the deck off. But it can be done after the deck is installed with minimal extra effort.

Thanks guys......hopefully will start posting pics of my progress soon.