These changes complicated the design. The molds that were built have been successful in producing about 16 boats so far and they should last for some time according to our builder, Bill Buckles. The molds can be used build both all FG boats as well as those with a wood foredeck. A mold for building a cored wood foredeck was built and successfully used. A second objective was to develop a more modern and practical deck arrangement.
People seem to like the new design.
We eliminated the aft deck which makes the boat look up to date, doesn't sacrifice strength, and makes fabrication easier. The thwart and the foredeck bulkhead were moved forward. The thwart was also narrowed and these last three changes allowed the skipper to sit further forward without straddling the thwart. This stiffens the trunk and crews seem to like it. A more rounded foredeck was made and the shear of the hull was made more curved to give the boat a saltier appearance.