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[GWRdriver]

Hello all,
I am a long time model engineer (40+years) and have built all sorts of model steam engines and boilers (which is a speciality) over the years and for a long while I've thought it was past time I dropped one into a hull.  (So many ponds around me, so few boats!)   I already have a hull or two in mind, but I have a lot to learn (ie, everything) about marine modeling so I'm here to try to absorb as much as I can.

In the meantime, while I lurk, I do have quite a bit of experience in building model engines, the Stuart engines for instance, and in particular copper boilers and fittings.  I must admit that most of my boiler building has been in locomotive type boilers, from 2" to 6" diameter, but I have done a few small marine boilers and the tools, materials, and techniques are the same and I would be glad to field questions and share what I know should the need arise.

[frazer heslop]

Hi Harry,good hunting and good luck for future builds,
best wishes fcheslop

[Colin Bishop]

It's worth checking out Kingston Mouldings for hulls if you haven't done so already as many of their very high quality hulls are suitable for steam plants: http://www.kingstonmouldings.com/

Also, Richard Simpson has a long running series of articles in Model Boats magaziine on the practicalities of fitting steam plants into model boats. Sample articles can be found on the Model Boats website such as this one: http://www.modelboats.co.uk/news/article.asp?a=4853

Colin

[kiwimodeller]

It is a lot simpler to begin with a fiberglass hull and as Colin says Kingston Mouldings do great hulls, some of which are suitable for steam. I have fitted out their Steam Yacht Tender with a 1/2" bore by 3/4" stroke double acting V Twin which was more than powerful enough. Also if you want something a bit smaller I can reccomend their River Queen open launch which will take a small single or twin. If you want to go to a larger engine such as a Stuart have a look at the Navy Picket Boat offered by Models by Design http://www.modelsbydesign.co.uk/model_boats.aspx At 50" long it is more suited to the larger engines and boilers as are some of the tug boat hulls offered by other manufacturers. Best of luck and dont forget to take photos and post them here as you go. Regards, Ian.