the_real_jaykay wrote:...Would the main structure be any weaker by not having a bulkhead?
Hi jaykay,
The bulkhead does stiffen and strengthen the structure, so not
having one would make it 'weaker' than having one. But you can
use different approaches to give some dimensional strength without
having one. It all depends on the size of your design and how you
want to use it w/o the galley as to what may work best for you.
Some suggestions: [Assuming location where the bulkhead usually
is located.]
1 - Use some of the large heavy duty "L" brackets [~6-8inch legs] on
the top and bottom on each side . You can bolt them through the walls
for more overall strength over just screwing them to the wall.
2 - Plywood right triangles with cleats can be glued/epoxied or
similarly attached as above. Cutoff/scrap 3/4inch plywood would be
a straightforward way.
3 - If stick framing the sidewalls and using spars, you could frame in
some diagonal framing similar to the the plwood right triangles - or apply
those [rt triangles] when in the framing stage.
4 - A 3 to 8 inch wide 3/4 inch board or ripped piece of plywood can be attached
perpendicularly to the walls, a/o walls and roof, that will act as a flange
and help give some stiffening. This could be applied at the 'normal
location' for a bulkhead, or at the end's perimeter opening for the rear
hatch/cargo door.
5 - Interior built-in 'furniture' on both sides could act in a similar manner
if built with their bracing function in mind as well as their other function(s).
6 - Use a 6-8inch wide board/ripped plywood piece as "Crown Molding"
along each side securely fastened with glue/screws - whatever fits your fancy -
to the walls and roof. The sides are beveled at 45 degrees on each long side
to allow for this. This can also act as a wiring chase and a location to mount
overhead lights and switches etc..
I'm sure there are other approaches as well...
Cheers,
Norm/mezmo
If you have a house - you have a hobby.