Model Boat Mayhem
The Shipyard ( Dry Dock ): Builds & Questions => Working Vessels => Topic started by: carlmt on January 22, 2011, 01:03:37 pm
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Good afternoon all,
Just in case anyone is interested, I thought I would report on the progress with developing this 1:96 kit.
We are now up to the 'cardboard prototype proof of concept' stage where a half sized (1:192) frame model is made to confirm ideas and shape, before progressing to forming a plug for the hull and having the superstructure parts laser cut.
It has taken 2 months of drawing to get to this point and I estimate another month of drawing is left. Then it is on to producing all the moulds for the fittings and getting the etched brass sheets made.
Hope it is of some interest....
Best regards
Carl (soon to be Linkspan Models....)
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looks very nice.
good luck with the kit.
neil :-))
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Hi Carl
very nice progress on the kit
john
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Elevations of the ship now 80% complete.............
Hull profiles now to be sent for laser cutting to produce the plug for the hull mould...
Carl
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looking good
John
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ooo :o would love to scale that up to around 12 feet long that would make a great tug towing tow any chance you could scale it up :embarrassed: lol
steve
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Hi carlmt.
looking at the drawings you have posted, does she have a bow rudder, the reason for asking is I am building a 1950s ferry fitted with one and have made it working. The rudder is only effective when going astern about 10/15 knots scale speed, this was verified by one of the Captains who used to command the ship/s. The model you are bringing to the public domain is a breath of fresh air, there are not many classic ferries in kit? form, I look forward to seeing the end product. Howard :-))
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Hi Howard - yes, she has a bow rudder..........and two bow thrusters!!!
Havent made up my mind yet as to whether the bow rudder will be operational from the outset, or whether to leave it up to the modeller. I am in two minds as to making that area of the hull completely solid, so that if the modeller wants a working rudder, then the shape can be cut from the hull and a rudder inserted.... Still working on that one....
As you mentioned, the bow rudder was only used to assist in berthing stern in - in FEV's case, when she reversed toward the linkspan at Dover (she was always bow in at Zeebrugge). The thrusters were used to finally position her against the quay....
Steve - you would be most welcome to the drawings...............just as soon as I have finished getting the kit to market.... Give me 6 months or so....
Carl
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Evening all,
Been burning the midnight oil for quite a while now.........but we think we can see light at the end of the tunnel!!!!
A little update on progress...............drawings are nearly complete. Plug for hull to be made in the next few weeks. Sourcing suppliers for the laser-cut styrene components and etched brass frets. Will be constructing the prototypes for all the details that will be cast resin components (deck and interior seats, winches, bollards, vents, bridge equipment etc.).
A snapshot of a few of the drawings. We are proposing that the kit will contain A1 sized sheet drawings of all decks at 1:192 and A1 drawings of deck detail and elevations at 1:96. We are also planning that the build manual will only contain 'word instructions' and that it will refer directly to the large scale drawings.
we are enjoying this!!!! :-))
Carl & Florence - Linkspan Models
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Hi Carl
Nice to see the project comming on. You have drawn a nice set of plans.
John
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Hi Carl. When do you think you web site will be up and running?
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A few weeks yet, maybe a month or two..........need to get something together to put on it {-) {-) {-) {-).
Andy (dreadnought on here) is putting it together for me and a cracking job he is doing too.....
Once the prototype build is underway, then I guess it could go live then..........with pictures and blog of the build.
My problem at the moment is having to do a 'day job' to keep the family head above water so can only work on the kit development in the evenings / early mornings and weekends. Progress is being made - just waiting for the plug framing to come back, the laser-cut styrene superstructure parts will be cut next month (April) along with the etched brass frets. Whilst these are being done, I shall be forming the plug for the hull and the masters for the cast resin parts. I am not proposing to use any white metal fittings as, to date, I have not been happy with the quality. Plus weight could be an issue.
Once the site goes live, then we will keep it updated with news of this kit plus forthcoming plans. However we will not be taking any orders until the prototype has sailed and we are happy with it. The last thing we want is to take orders etc. then be late in delivering - thereby gaining a 'dubious' reputation - no thanks!!
Carl
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Any Idea of the kit price?
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Any Idea of the kit price?
We are aiming for a price of sub £500 incl VAT (E600 without VAT) all plus postage....
Carl
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£500 incl VAT (E600 without VAT)
That doesn't sound quite right, does it ? {:-{
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thats a lot of money aint it
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EEEEEEK! rushing again!!!!
£500 incl VAT for UK purchasers.......
Approx 600 Euro........also including UK VAT. Misstyped - euro purchasers still have to pay our VAT......as I understand it (have an appointment with the accountant next month - one of the many tasks we have to do to get this venture off the ground).
Carl
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thats a lot of money aint it
Its a lot of boat.......................and a lot of kit!!!!!!
Compare it with equivalent kits Europe-wide............as well as those offered by Deans and Mountfleet.....
Carl
PS At the moment, that is the 'target price' - dependent on development costs this could well come down below.... With a price of £500 INC. VAT, the actual price is £410 (or thereabouts)
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Look at the Kong Harald by billing boats
http://www.modelbrouwers.nl/shop/catalog/1100-billing-boats-ms-kong-harald-p-1634.html?language=en&manufacturers_id=29&osCsid=c4f247c75a79fa47727982abf6cbbd37
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I think once I see the kit I would happy to pay up. Especially if its a ship that I like ie Mv Norland hint hint. :-)
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Hi Carl
You are doing a great job.
On VAT. any who buy an item with the EU and does not travel out side the EU pays the tax in the country of purchies. An persion living in the USA can get TAX back so long as the item is ship to the USA but he may be supjected to USA import/state tax. So take the uk price convert in to euro and there is you price.
On Price if what Carl has planed having seen his previous builds it is a BARGIN. IT is low production small market hand made there is a lot to take in to acount and I think £500 or near there is a very good price for a full kit with fiber glass hull , brass etch , resing fittings , transfers etc.
John
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Well worth it, good luck with the project. :-))
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Carl you have done some very nice drawings and appear to be going about this project very professionally
best of luck to you and don't let these impatient modelmakers rush you into anything until you are really ready
to go into production as you say you want to get it right first time.
Geoff
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Also compared with the amount it cost me to build my ferry £500-£600 is very reasonable.
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Look at the Kong Harald by billing boats
http://www.modelbrouwers.nl/shop/catalog/1100-billing-boats-ms-kong-harald-p-1634.html?language=en&manufacturers_id=29&osCsid=c4f247c75a79fa47727982abf6cbbd37
OUCH OUCH AND OUCH AGAIN!!!!!!!!!!! Over 2000 Euro. Now I remember why I wanted to get into this game O0 O0 O0.
If we could sell our range for that money - we would be millionaires in no time.......However.......................this is the real world.
Thanks for the messages of support and encouragement folks, it is appreciated :-)). Spent this evening designing and working out the etched brass handrailing. The real ship had 60mm wide flat bar rails set on flat bar stanchions. All done now - another small task completed.....
Carl
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OUCH OUCH AND OUCH AGAIN!!!!!!!!!!! Over 2000 Euro. Now I remember why I wanted to get into this game O0 O0 O0.
If we could sell our range for that money - we would be millionaires in no time.......However.......................this is the real world.
Thanks for the messages of support and encouragement folks, it is appreciated :-)). Spent this evening designing and working out the etched brass handrailing. The real ship had 60mm wide flat bar rails set on flat bar stanchions. All done now - another small task completed.....
Carl
True but I have yet to see a build log anywhere for one
There is a kit in my local model shop and its been on the shelf at least 2 and a half years, so I think sales figures are not that high
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Good evening folks,
Had all the plug wooden framing come back from the water-jet cutting faciility - many thanks to Steve at Modelboatbits: did a cracking job and very accurately cut they are too :-)) :-)) :-)). Can recommend this method for wood (not yey tried it on styrene).
Pictures below show the 'dry run' for both the hull plug framing and the funnel.
Feels like real progress is being made now............
Carl
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Looking good Carl, you can see the outline already. Hope you are enjoying doing the hard work as much as we are following your progress. It's staggering just how much work it takes to produce a commercial kit like this. I think you're on to a real winner with this venture. :-))
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Put my name down for one of those! looks cracking, keep up the hard work.
Alex
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This look like it's going to be a great kit :-)) Are you going to include the truster tubes?
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This look like it's going to be a great kit :-)) Are you going to include the truster tubes?
Yep - tubes will be included.........along with reccommendations for a thruster unit (the prototype will have a working thruster). The kit will have dummy thruster props to install should you not wish to have a working thruster.
Carl
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Hi Carl
Hows is the kit devolment comming on
john
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Hi John,
She is coming along - albeit a little slowly at the mo...
Was on R&R from the end may to mid june (in France - needed I can tell you!!!) - then 3 days after we got back I was floored with a virus!!!!!
Been on me sick bed since!!!! This is the first time I have had a chance to check-in on the forum in nearly a month.....
Looking forward to getting stuck in again very soon - feel unbelievably weak at the mo.....but doc says I am on the mend.........will post a more detailed update later this week when I have seen him again.
Want to get on.......feel as though time is slipping by too quickly!!!!
Carl
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Hi Carl. Hope you get better soon mate.
Ali.
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Sorry to here that Carl ,hope you get well soon.
John
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Hi friends,
Been a long time since I posted about progress with the kit. What with my illness and then having to catch up with the 'day job', the kit development slowed down somewhat. HOWEVER - some progress has been made, although it seems one step back for every two steps forward.
Producing a mould for the hull that I am satisfied with is certainly taking its toll on my sanity!!!! I have junked a few.......but now think that I am getting closer. After reading some of the comments recently on here about kit quality, I certainly dont want to fail at the first hurdle!!!!
Have had some styrene 'water-jet' cut as an experiment on some of the parts (both large and small and in different thicknesses) and can report that it seems a very good and cost-effective method (especially compared to either full CNC milling, stamping or just printing). Sure, there would be some sanding and light dressing to be done by the modeller - but what model kit (of ANY manufacturer) does not require this?
For certain, Free Enterprise V will NOT be a beginners model - it will need some experience of plan reading, methodology and modelling skills to complete. However, I do have in mind that Norland could be classed as, if not beginners, then one for the 'less experienced'.
Writing a comprehensive instruction manual is also on the list, however this will mostly take place as the prototype is built.
We have some way to go yet..........but we are not giving up. We just want to get it right.
We want you to enjoy this model.
Speak soon all,
Carl
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That is such a classic ship. I think anyone who travelled by sea to Europe in the 70s & 80s will have been on at least one of the class. On the water it should evoke some memories :-)
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Was sorting out my camera chip today and came across a couple of photos I had forgotten I had taken of the development of the plug........
Added just for interest.
Carl
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Loving this already :-))
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Hi Carl,
New to the forum but had to join once I've seen the ship you're developing. I remember Townsend Thoresen with the greatest memories of trips to France when younger. I used to get so disappointed when my dad put us on the Sealink ferries as these were not a patch on TT. I was also really surprised to find out that FE V was still in service upto this year. It's now in port in Albania under the name Veronica Line and according to the company will be sailing again at Christmas (If they pay their bills).
(http://hhvferry.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/fev_veronical_brin_jul08.jpg)
Needless to say that once you've got the kit available I will be very interested indeed.
Thanks Antony
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Hi Anthony and welcome to the Forum :-))
And thanks also for the vote of confidence in my kit creation endeavours!!!
I knew she was in Albania but didnt realise that she might sail again by christmas - how did you hear about it?
Cheers
Carl
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Hi Carl,
"“There has been no stranding whatever, nor could it have happen as Veronica Line is weeks long berthed empty in Vlorë. Simply, the owners went to the port to check the strengthening of the moorings because of bad weather forecasts. Besides, the stop in Vlorë arises from the tiny throughput in low season while two other ships are sailing between Brindisi and Albania [i.e., ferries Red Star I of Red Star Ferries and Ionian Spirit of Agoudimos Lines]. Thus it is possible that the ship resumes sailing for the Christmas holidays peak” said Giosué Agrillo, head of Naples-based Alemar Srl, technical manager of Veronica Line."
Full article from: http://www.ship2shore.it/english/articolo.php?id=7309
I was shocked to see how many old TT Ferries have been sailing up to very recently. I still like the original TT colours:
(http://www.simplonpc.co.uk/TownsendTheresen/FreeEnterpriseV-01.jpg)
What do you think?
Thanks Antony
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AH yes, I know this article - it dates from November 2010.
She didnt sail last Christmas and, in fact, hasnt sailed since October 2010. Her AIS has been activated on numerous occasions, and she was listed for sale back in the late spring, but all recent reports still have her tied up in Vlore, Albania.
If only I could get on board for one last visit........would you think they would notice if I drove her away in the dead of the night and brought her home to the UK? Would make a great home!!!
As for the colour schemes - I concur with you that the early 'Townsend Car Ferries' livery is a classic. The kit, however, can have any livery you want!!!!!
As for former Townsend Thoresen ferries still in existance, this list is as up to date as I can compile...
Free Enterprise I - 1962 - (MV Okeanis - Laid up Pireaus, Greece)
Free Enterprise V - 1970 - (Veronica Line - Laid up Vlore, Albania)
Free Enterprise VII - 1972 - (BSP III - in service Indonesia)
Pride of Free Enterprise - 1980 (Oleander - in service Tangiers?)
Spirit of Free Enterprise - 1981 (Anthi Marina - Laid up Elefsis Bay, Greece)
European Clearway - 1975 - (MV Via Mare - ?)
European Enterprise - 1977 - (MV Gardenia - in service Ramsgate / Oostende)
Pride of Dover - 1986 - (Laid up Tilbury)
Pride of Calais - 1987 - (although never in Townsend Thoresen colours. In service Dover / Calais)
Viking Viscount - 1975 - (Vitsentzos Kornaros - in service Greece)
Viking II - 1965 (Windward II - Laid up Trinidad....a hotel I understand???)
Viking III - 1965 - (Red Star I - In service Brindisi / Vlore)
Cerdic Ferry - in service in the Black Sea as Sea Partner.
Doric Ferry - laid up in (I think) Gothenburg.
European Gateway - in service somewhere in the Meditearran as (I think she is still called) Penelope.
Nordic Ferry - in service in the Meditearran as Corsa Strada.
Tiger - in service as a cruise ship as Expedition. Although she was P&O, she was still in the Townsend Thoresen fleet for a short time, and repainted in their colours.
Viking Trader - in service in the Meditearran. Not sure of her name.
And then there are those no longer with us:
Free Enterprise II - scrapped 2003 (the first FE to be scrapped) Alang, India
Free Enterprise III - ran aground on Saudi coast and left there 2004
Free Enterprise IV - scrapped 2006 Alang, India
Free Enterprise VI - sunk after being hit by cargo vessel 2005
Free Enterprise VIII - scrapped 2011 Aliaga,Turkey
Herald of Free Enterprise - Capsized 1987 Zeebrugge (broken up Alang)
Viking I - scrapped 2008 Aliaga, Turkey
Viking IV - sunk 1996 in hurricane between Australia and Japan
All the Super Vikings (other than Viking Viscount) have been scrapped over the last 10 years, the most recent only a few months ago.
There are probably a few more (certainly from the early years) but when the Pride of Calais finishes her service, probably in January, that will be the last link of Townsend Thoresen to Dover severed (although she never sailed in TT colours, she was ordered by them).
Carl
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Hi Carl,
Fantastic list. Thanks for sharing. Nice to see a few are still in service.
Back to you FEV. Sorry if the questions seem dumb but I'm new to all this although I have been into modelling for quite a few years now. What exactly will the kit include and will it include raising and lowering of the front bow and the rear loading ramp? Will you include any electrics or at least recommend a decent set up? I know it's early days but I'm really looking forward to seeing this progress.
Thanks Antony
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Hi Antony - thanks for the interest in the FEV kit :-)) :-))
It is planned that the kit will include the following:
Fibreglass hull and front & rear superstructure modules
Waterjet cut styrene deck and superstructure parts and windows
etched brass detail items such as railings, companionways, grilles etc.
vac formed lifeboats, deck seating, bridge consoles etc. (to reduce weight).
cast resin details including winches, windlasses, bollards, fairleads, cowls, vents, vehicles (for the open car deck) etc.
timber for deck support
brass rod and wire for masts
Resin cast rudder
Prop tubes, shafts and 'P' brackets
full colour instruction book and CD.
Advice on motor, prop, and bow thruster choice
Suggestions for radio, servo, and battery installation
Suggestions for ballasting
Hints on methodology for bow and stern door opening (although the kit is designed to have these fixed closed, I realise that some might want to have them operating).
Most of the 'installation' set-up will be confirmed once we have the prototype up and running. At the moment, I am trying to get the plug to a standard ready for molding that I am happy with..........nearly there........but it is taking an age!!!!
Cheers
Carl
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Hi Carl,
That's one comprehensive list. Thanks for letting me know and good luck with the progress, I know all your hard work will pay off in the end.
Antony
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Hello all, I'm new here and also new to the world of model boats, but I've always had a great intrest in ferries and would absolutely love to have one of my own.
Therefore, Carl I hope your venture is a great success and I think you really have found an obvious gap in the model boat world! Your choice for your first ship is a great one and the chosen scale should make for a fantastically detailed and substantial model. Must start saving the pennies, either for this or one of your future ships.
I'm familiar with one of these sisters, the FEIV, which I remember seeing a lot of as a boy when it ran from Cairnryan to Larne, as back in the day my parents had a caravan in Stranraer with great views of the Sealink and Townsend ships coming and going!
I hope your future plans will include the Sealink Saints and/or the Townsend Spirit class, and I can't wait to see your website up and running!
I'll be following your progress keenly and have put a couple of links on the ferry links thread to help you and others find all the pictures you need!
All the best, Joe
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Do you have any photos Carl?
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Soon Ali, soon..............I had to pull the plug apart a couple of times over the last month as I 'ballsed it up!!'..........but I think I am getting there now. Very difficult making the time for it during the week what with travelling a fair bit for the day job.
Sanding the plug takes an age!!!!!!
Will try and get some decent photos over the weekend...........
Carl
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Sanding the plug takes an age!!!!!!
Can say that again %)
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As promised, so shots of the FEV plug in prep........
Carl
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...............and some of the latest state of play..........
Once all the shaping has taken place, she will be covered in filler and the sanding starts all over again!!!!!!! :-X :-X :-X
Carl
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Hi Carl,
Nice to see the progress but it does seem very hard work to get all the angles and shapes just right. Good luck!! and keep the photo's coming.
Thanks Antony
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Good work so far Carl. Looking real nice.
Ali.
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Can you guess what it is yet????
Carl
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looking very good Carl
John
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Mouthwateringly good Carl.
I've read that there are five ships in this class, Free EnterpriseIII - Free EnterpriseVIII. We could all have different ones. Not to mention the umpteen liveries and new names these ships have carried. Mmmm Decisions Decisions!
You have a great future mate.
Ali.
P.S. Did anyone spot the deliberate mistake before I changed it?
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Roman numerals Do my head in!
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Thanks guys - although today I was turning the same colour as the foam!!! Covered from head to toe in foam dust.....
BTW Ali - yes there were 5 in this class.....but they didnt start at III....IV was the first, then V, VI & VII and VIII was the last, but she was 6m longer in the bow.
And out of them, FEV is the only one left.
As for colours and names.............your choice guys!!!!!!!!!
Carl
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Hi Carl. I wrote IV to start with but changed it Don't know why now.
Apart from a few minor alterations to the windows, are they identical? I know the last two had different engines but which doesn't matter when it come to the model. Unless the funnels are different.
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Hi
I agree the Townsend Thoresen livery were best, I like it when they had T T on the funnel .
Laburnum of Trans Eurpa Ferries looks good to
john
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I'll look for some Laburnum images John
Carl .......... That's all looking good :-))
what foam are you using and where can I buy it on-line - I might just have a little practice try at that build method ;)
Dave
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IV and V were identical in all respects, VI had a large 'mushroom' vent on her fo'csle as did VII, and VII had her main mast repositioned to the rear deck to relieve stresses on the observation lounge roof. VIII also had the mod to the main mast, but her main difference was she was 6m longer in the bow.
A few pictures to illustrate:
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LInk to all the livery of Free Enterprise V
http://www.simplonpc.co.uk/FE5.html
John
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I'll look for some Laburnum images John
Carl .......... That's all looking good :-))
what foam are you using and where can I buy it on-line - I might just have a little practice try at that build method ;)
Dave
Thanks Dave.......
The foam is under-floor insualation foam from Wickes.......havent tried ording it on-line myself. Mine came from a friend at the end of the South West Model Engineering Show at Shepton Mallet earlier this year - he was using it as a means of displaying his boats on the club stand to give them some elevation. It is quite dense, but cuts and sands easily. Not expensive like the blue craft foam and comes in large slabs.
All : It is my intention to include some photographs of the different liveries carried by these ships, in the kit. However, for obvious reasons, I will only be including decals for Free Enerprise V.
C
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LInk to all the livery of Free Enterprise V
http://www.simplonpc.co.uk/FE5.html
John
That's a good link John - just be careful with the 3rd picture down in the list. There is something wrong with the colour on this picture as it shows a grey hull - and no Townsend vessel EVER had a grey hull 8) 8) 8)
C
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HI Carlmt, it is looking like it is going to be a super kit when finished. Will it have an opening bow like the original ?. I would be very interested in the kit , what are the dimensions & motor sizes, Mick B.
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Hi Mick - many thanks for the compliments :-))
The f/g hull will have the markings for the opening bow door - it will be up to the modeller if they want to modify the kit to have it opening. I will include some ideas on how that may be possible in with the kit. Same with the stern ramp/door. Just please bear in mind that some form of waterproof bulkhead will be needed to prevent flooding of the car deck!!!
As for the 'particulars':
Overall length will be 1220mm (48.2")
Breadth - 200mm (7.8")
Target displacement - 5.7kg (12.8lbs)
As for motors, we are going to try 3 x 555 motors to provide smooth slow running and good torque. It is looking like the shafts may have to be driven from the motors via a pulley and belt system as the shafts are horizontal and very close to the floor of the hull - but all this will be confirmed on the prototype.
The prototype will have working bow thrusters and bow rudder as these contribute enormously to the 'in harbour' handling.
Hope this helps answer some questions...................
Carl
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Carl. Do the real ships have a ramp behind the doors?
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I liked the bit about a watertight bulkhead preventing the car deck flooding. I had visions of lots of little Free Enterprise disasters.
A.
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Hi Ali,
No, the bow visor lifts up to reveal a pair of water-tight doors which open onto the main car/lorry deck. The linkspan ramp at the port would drop down and the 'fingers' of the ramp would rest on the flat edge of the car deck, in the opening.
At the stern, the flat door (seen in the 1st picture - of FE IV) is hinged along it's top edge and was raised horizontal to form a 'link ramp' from the upper car deck of the ship to the linkspan ramp of the port. Raising this door created an opening onto the main lorry deck below and, just like the bow arrangement, the linkspan 'fingers' would drop down and rest on the edge of the deck.
This was the arrangement when they used Dover, Zeebrugge and Calais. When FEV was sold out to the Albania / Italy trade, she had an external stern ramp fitted and retained her stern door, but no longer used the upper car deck. She also no longer used the bow doors. There are no linkspan arrangements in the mediterranian / Greek ports, so all ex-Dover Straits ferrys sold into Med service have to have ramps fitted to link with the quay's - usually very ugly fitments which do nothing for the looks of the vessels............
C
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One less thing to think about I suppose. But then there's an operating linkspan to work out.
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Hi Carl - have you got an image of the 'ugly' arrangement?
Dave
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I liked the bit about a watertight bulkhead preventing the car deck flooding. I had visions of lots of little Free Enterprise disasters.
A.
Honestly Ali - this had been my biggest concern about producing ANY TT ferry.........how it would be viewed especially if (when?) a model sinks!!!!
I, personally, am fully aware of the circumstances of 'that night'......and would NEVER diminish the enormity or the impact of the event.
However, we dont question peoples 'morals' or such when they build models of the Titanic........or HMS Hood........or Bismarck.........
Maybe the time is much closer for the Zeebrugge disaster compared to the others.........
A difficult subject - that has to be handled sensitively and sensibly.........
C
PS
And yes, if there is no water-tight bulkhead, she WILL sink, even with the bow visor closed........as I doubt having it closed would create a good enough seal.
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The world is full of disasters, and ones like the Titanic are I suppose almost 'celebrated'. Every car model produced has many individual disiasters attached, every plane model has crashed,evry train derailed etc etc. Daily life goes on - I think it is intent that is important here. You are not out to use the disaster so it shouldn't bear on your decision to build. Anyway that's how i see it.
Dave
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Hi Carl - have you got an image of the 'ugly' arrangement?
Dave
Here you go Dave.........
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You won't stop people buying models of the space shuttle or Concord. And you can't stop making them because of the events they were involved in.
Ali.
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I agree with both of you - it will not stop me offering the kit.
At the end of the day, P&O would not exist today if it wasnt for TT...............and car ferry travel would not have progressed in the UK as it has without the pioneering vision of Stuart Townsend as it was he who forced the rail owned ferry company to cater more for the motorist by providing them with some serious competiton and driving up standards on the Straits.
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Hi Carl, I am not worried about the history, I just want a nice model to build with good freeboard. That unloading contraption they have installed is hideous, I would bet you will not see many models built with that attached. The model will be quite a nice size with a good turn of speed. Thanks again, Mick B.
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Good evening all,
Another full day in the workshop - but I think I have finished with sanding the foam now....
As soon as the filler arrives, it will be on to the next stage:
1 - apply the filler
2 - sand it to shape and smooth
3 - add the detail / windows / openings etc.
This is how she is looking this evening.....
Carl
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Hi Carl
You must be so glad to have reached another stage in the build, another box ticked. Looking Goooooooooooood :-))
Dave
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Carl well done another little milestone ... although after all that work your probably hoping it is a big milestone!
Now i was never good at spot the difference... but unless i'm overdue at spec savers i see two plugs there :) Well done you!
Regards,
Kim
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Carl well done another little milestone ... although after all that work your probably hoping it is a big milestone!
Now i was never good at spot the difference... but unless i'm overdue at spec savers i see two plugs there :) Well done you!
Regards,
Kim
Stearn & Bow shot.. just 1 plug I think.
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Stearn & Bow shot.. just 1 plug I think.
Ah, i see .. said the blind man, who picked up his hammer and saw!
Are specksavers open on a Sunday .... lol
Thanks for that
Kim
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Hi Carl,
I am very impressed with your work. Looks like a real labor of love. I would also like to compliment you on your choice of ship for various reason I will explain. I am somewhat less than impressed with these newer slab-sided, all upfront ro-ro designs; they seem unbalanced and no at all appealing to my eye.
Although I am a relative newbie to the scratch built models I think there is a definite gap for advanced kits, with lots of details and featuring a ship of great proportions and recent historical significance, like the FE V. I can only imagine how impressive a model in green livery would look like underway.
I must admit to a small amount of vested interest. I was employed as a steward on board a number of Townsend Thoresen Ferries during the summers in the late '80s, including a season on the FE V, and my Dad was also master of a few including this one (but not at the same time). He has a nice oil painting (I think the FE V in orange livery) and I'll try get a snap of and posted it here if you are interested.
All the best,
Michael
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Welcome to the Forum Michael - and many thanks for the compliments for the kit..........she really is my favourite :-)) :-)) :-))
Like you, I cannot say I am too enamoured by the modern ferries - although technologically, they are a marvel................be almost impossible to model at a sensible scale though!!!!
I am intrigued by you connections to these ships - what with your father being a past Master and you being lucky enough (in my eyes) to have worked on board. Would you or your father have any photographs you would be willing to share from those times? I am looking forward to seeing a photo of your dad's painting especially!!!!
Please do stick around - i am guessing you would have many tales to tell of life on board!!!!
Cheers
Carl
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Hi Carl
The Ferry is looking good. I see in the plug you have mouleded the super structer . Can I ask how you are going to do the mould. hull only or hull + super structer.
To day I went to the science museum to see the Sprite of free enterprise 1:100 model. Wow what a model/I have take a fair amount of photo of her. From what I can see compaired to orignal photos of the real ship it is an acurate model. The main problem was the very poor lighting and the model was in a glass case. I spoke with museum staff and they conformed that the marine exhibit will close some time in Febuary 2012.
John
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Hi John- the intention is to mould both the hull and the majority of the superstructure - the sides in particular - in one go. The front and rear superstructure elements that span across the bow and stern will be moulded seperately for the modeller to add and will give strength and rigidity to the sides.
As for the SOFE at the science museum - I intend to visit in january - what I wouldn't give to get my hands on THAT model!!!
C
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Carl, Britain PLC is up for sale - so you never know matey - possibly get it on loan :}
Dave
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As for the SOFE at the science museum - I intend to visit in january - what I wouldn't give to get my hands on THAT model!!!
Don't leave it too late, they are clearing the galleries in the New Year with the models going into storage. Probably not until may though.
Colin
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hello
Colin your are correct. The muesum staff could not give a date as of yet. All they know is Febuary is still the target date .
Carl there would be a queue for people wanting that model.
John
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hello
Colin your are correct. The muesum staff could not give a date as of yet. All they know is Febuary is still the target date .
Carl there would be a queue for people wanting that model.
John
Well - I will just have to get on and make one then wont I????? ;) ;) ;) ;) ;)
C
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Another build Carl :o - you need to sleep occasionaly mate - just so as you can dream about ferries O0 {-)
By the way see http://today.seattletimes.com/2011/12/kalakala-update-1-with-conditions-coast-guard-wants-it-gone/ <:( <:( <:(
Dave
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Hi Carl, my father he's dug out a few early photos of the FE V. I have asked if he has any from during construction/launching but have not heard back. Also, I am not sure if you have seen a book by Miles Cowsill and John Hendy called the Townsend Eight (Ferry Publications ISBN: 1-871947-60-x) with a mixture of colour and black and white pictures. I hope these photos are of interest. All the best, Michael
(http://s9.postimage.org/srnxhda6j/Top.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/srnxhda6j/)
(http://s8.postimage.org/gsgk4fd1d/image0_1.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/gsgk4fd1d/)
(http://s12.postimage.org/pp8sojhbt/image0.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/pp8sojhbt/)
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Keep up the good work Carl, she's getting there. Below are a couple of photo's of FEV now, laid up in Vlore Harbour, Albania:
(http://inlinethumb43.webshots.com/46506/2826767450061163969S500x500Q85.jpg) (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2826767450061163969eBVtdV)
Thanks Antony
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Michael - Thanks for posting those pictures :-)) She sure is a graceful looking boat - much nicer lines than the modern 'boxes' that cross the channel these days. Thank your father for me.......I just cannot seem to get enough photos of the Free Enterprises to satisfy my thirst!!! I am actually meeting a gentleman next Sunday who used to work as a steward on the Free Enterprises during the eighties. He then progressed to the Spirit class as well as the Prides of Dover and Calais. He now sails deep sea on a box boat, but is still mad keen on the ferries.........
and Antony - Thank YOU for the photos of her now in Vlore - such a crying shame that she has been there now for over 12 months. I really cannot see her entering back into service now. I think her next voyage will be a one way towage to the beach at Aliaga, Turkey, for scrapping. She would have to be towed unless her engines have been maintained in good order (which I doubt).
If and when I hear she is on her way to Aliaga I will be heading out there myself to see if I can persuade the yard to let me on board.
If you dont try - you dont succeed!!!
As for the model - the plug has had it's first thin coat of filler added today below the belting. Sanding day tomorrow!!!
Carl
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Hey Carl. I'll have a little less of the 'boxes' thing mate, I happen to like those slab sided top heavy things. They may not ascetically pleasing but they are like an Apache helicopter, 'so ugly they're beautiful'. Of course I like the older one's too, they all have their place in ferry evolution. Let us know how it goes next Sunday, I always like the stories old drivers come out with.
Ali.
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mmmmmm slab sided and top heavy - say no more
............ but then again, graceful lines and a regular service %)
Which is better - there's only one way to find out
'FIGHT' Sorry just having a Harry Hill moment there.
Dave
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No worries Ali - sorry mate, didnt mean to offend :embarrassed: :embarrassed:
My real beef is with the new Spirits of Britain and France: I know they have been designed to do a job and, vibration apart, they do it very well. I just wish the naval architect who designed them had put a little more thought into the aesthetics (that's the architect in me coming out!!). I mean, the Prides of Dover and Calais were large ships, and they had a certain style to the upper works - even the DFDS 'D' class boats (which are only a fraction smaller than the new Spirits) have had some thought given to their shape and window style.
But the biggest ball-ache for me of all though is the bow design - they build a sleek bow with good rake and sheer..........then go and stick a dirty great 'goalpost' or 'cow catcher' on the front and spoil the lines completely!!!!!
mutter mutter mumble mumbe grumble grumble.............
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You like what you grow up with I suppose. If we all liked the same thing the world would be a boring place. The new Spirits just represent current thinking and the goalpost things seen to be Dover-Calais phenomenon. You mention Vibration, I've seen a video of one of these ships manoeuvring and it seems to be that the variable pitch props are causing a lot of this.
Not all superferries are my cup of tea, for instance the SNCM Napoleon Bonaparte looks like a mickey mouse cruise liner.
(http://s10.postimage.org/pkv9qqnp1/Napoleon_Bonaparte01.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/pkv9qqnp1/)
I like a ferry to look like a ferry.
Ali.
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Hi Ali
So how do you fell about HSC like MV Bissat?
Dave
(http://s8.postimage.org/wjdo8v1e9/MV_Bissat.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/wjdo8v1e9/)
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No worries Ali - sorry mate, didnt mean to offend :embarrassed: :embarrassed:
My real beef is with the new Spirits of Britain and France: I know they have been designed to do a job and, vibration apart, they do it very well. I just wish the naval architect who designed them had put a little more thought into the aesthetics (that's the architect in me coming out!!). I mean, the Prides of Dover and Calais were large ships, and they had a certain style to the upper works - even the DFDS 'D' class boats (which are only a fraction smaller than the new Spirits) have had some thought given to their shape and window style.
But the biggest ball-ache for me of all though is the bow design - they build a sleek bow with good rake and sheer..........then go and stick a dirty great 'goalpost' or 'cow catcher' on the front and spoil the lines completely!!!!!
mutter mutter mumble mumbe grumble grumble.............
Hi Carl
Take a look at MS Star bow http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MS_Star . She was built at the Aker yard now STX . IF PO had not insisted on cam shell door the new sprit class bows would have look ok. Thats what you get when you put a square peg in to a round hole with a big hammer = mess.
There are morden very sleak ferrys that are not box boats. Super Fast IX, X, XI http://members.multimania.nl/hanshu/SuperfastX.htm Colour Line Super Speed 1 and 2 http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:SuperSpeed_1_%286%29.jpg. For box boat well Finnjet started that back in 1977 but she made up for it in speed 33+ Knots
John
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Cheers for that John - does the MS Star have an upward opening bow visor then?
I think the main reason for all the 'hardware' on the bows of modern cross channel ferries is that they now have bulbous bows, and these need to be defended against damage from contact with the linkspans. Hence, the 'landing platforms' for the linkspan fingers have to extend forward of the bulb - and subsequently, the upper deck landing platform has to be extended also, and supported by 'goalposts'.
The earlier boats (Prides of Dover & Calais and before) do not have bulbous bows, so did not have these 'problems'.
Carl
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Slab-sided newbuilds really aren't my cup of tea either, the 2001 NSF twins are already beyond what I consider a good looking ferry to be. Driving up a ramp into a tiny door half-way up the side of a ship never gives you the feeling that you're on a really big boat, and as for aesthetics - the streamlined funnel just looks "squashed" to my eyes and at odds with the towering square of the bridge screen. At the back the open cargo deck looks unfinished, even though I know you have to have modern ferries "open aft" to comply with dangerous cargo carrying restrictions; but the real bugbear is the lack of deckspace. Norland / Norstar had masses of it, their replacements Norsea / Norsun are not at all bad by modern standards - on a summer crossing it really makes a difference and lets you feel you are actually at sea. On POH / POR you feel you cannot escape the inside of the ship - there's nowhere to go outside - and such deckspace as there is, is set a long way back from the stern, and often occupied with smokers - ironically dropping ash and cinders right on top of the hazardous cargo space....
Maybe economics dictate that modern ferries have to be freighters first, cruise ferries second; and that impacts the way they have to be built and the way they look.
To my mind, Norsun / Norsea were the last of the good looking ferries, with the earlier Olau twins a close second. Come to think of it, Norsun / Norsea will be 25 years old next May, is a beach in India looming in the not-to-distant future? Or will P&O do the decent thing and extend the operating life of these two perfectly capable ferries for another decade or so?
Greets (from a clearly biased NSF fan!!)
HansP
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Hi HanP. As you might have guessed I am also a massive NSF fan with Norland and Norsea being my all time favourates.
When I first saw the POH/POR I hated them for the same reasons you mentioned but the more I look at them the more I get used to them. That's not to say that I think they are good looking ferries.
As I do research for my waterline models I am looking at ferries all over Europe and have found that unfortunately this is the shape of things to come as it seems to be the most economical configuration.
We have seen many designs come and go. At one time it appeared that the emphasis was shifting towards faster ferries so the HSS was built but has not been very successful. Now it's the inside of ferries that are changing the most as passengers expect more facilities.
The Silja Serenade being a case in point. It's not a bad looking ship on the outside even though it looks to much like a cruiser but look inside and it's a floating shopping centre.
(http://s8.postimage.org/jrpy2ksm9/download.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/jrpy2ksm9/)
(http://s9.postimage.org/p6rs0xi3v/images.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/p6rs0xi3v/)
I'm with you guys, I like the older generation of ferries but whether we like it or not we'll have to get used to it.
Ali.
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Hi Carl
MS Star has doors that open out wards and back then a ramp comes down same as the Super fast ships . She does have a bulbus bow.
I not to up on regs. But look at Sea France Morliere they had to do the cow catcher on her and she still looks smart. Sealink Fantasia had that novel design were the vissor lifted the the landing platform for the uper car deck roled in to position. Both of these boat still looked smart on there bows.
Ali
Both Symphony Serenade of Silja Line are ledgenery in that they set the trend for morden cruise ships. Silja line asked Akers yard to build a pair of cruise ferries the world had never seen before and thats what they got. That morden 200 000 tones cruise ship with the atrium is based on these 2 ferries.
The Baltic has a phenomenan were there are both route ferries and cruise ferries were they are basicly a cruise ship with a car deck. There are only a had fully of places in the world were ferries are used for cruise as well as transportation from A to B. Helsinki has a great ferry port with many great ships.
John
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Evening all...........
Well, I have spent all weekend in the workshop applying and then sanding off filler - absolutely covering myself from head to toe in filler dust (and yes, I was wearing overalls / boots / breathing mask / goggles).............and I am still not happy with the finish I am getting on the hull below the belting >>:-( >>:-( >>:-(.
No matter what I try, I just cant seem to get a 'fair' surface from bow to stern. I am using flat sanding blocks (wood blocks with various grades of paper super-glued to them) of different sizes as I find that the largest (about 5" x 2") is too large for some of the compound curves!!!!
It isnt massively noticable - the surface doesnt resemble the moon!!! - but it annoys me greatly. When i run my hands over the surface I can feel the undulations..........and they are not caused by the wooden formers. Maybe I should have clad the plug on the 'plank & frame' method?
To me, it just isnt good enough yet!!!!
I dont think I will have the same problem with the upper hull as I can use my electric power sanding mouse which gives a lovely flat surface (as I found out on the bottom hull plating), but I cannot use it on the more curvey hull just below the waterline.
Any suggestions (apart from 'give it up') before I go barmy???
Photos will be posted tomorrow as my camera packed up today >:-o >:-o
Carl
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Carl,
You could cast it as it is and then work on the first casting to produce the final mould.
A bit labour intensive but you would then be working on gell coat and filler.
Bob
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Hi Bob - That thought had crossed my mind earlier, but I am a bit worried about the cost of having a mould cast twice........once to get a hull to 'work on to get perfect' then another to actually produce the kit hulls {:-{ {:-{ {:-{.
Having never done any moulding myself before, I am hoping to get the plug up to Mark at MMB for him to sort for me, with me 'looking over the shoulder' so to speak - but at this time I have no idea as to the cost..........this I need to speak with him at the time - when the plug is ready!!!!
In my 'younger' days when restoring classic cars and such, I used to spray a guide coat of black over a surface I was working on, then 'flat back' the surface - this would then show any imperfections and depressions on the surface as the flatting would remove the guide coat, leaving black paint where the depressions occured. But it was easier to flat back a large panel with rigid tools than it is to do the same on a relatively small and curvey boat hull !!!!
If I use the sandpaper without the blocks there is a huge danger of creating MORE undulations from finger pressure O0 O0
Carl
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Carl,
It seems you only have 3 choices.
Work on your plug.
Cast one and work on that.
Get Mark to finish it.
Bob
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ha ha ha ha ha {-) {-) {-)
I asked for that didnt I :-)) :-))
It would be unfair of me to ask Mark to finish it for me as then I wouldnt learn anything - and I want these kits to have at least 'some' of my input %% %%.
I think I shall just persevere with adding and sanding the filler until I am happy with the surface..........
Really needed a bit of a rant here to you guys as when I tried to discuss it with SWMBO, the only response was ' Really, I am sorry dear.......would you like a cup of coffee???'
The coffee was welcome, but the ideas were lacking (bless 'er)........
Carl
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Your lucky Carl - you wouldn't have got the coffee from my wife - just another job you needed to do 'before you touch that boat again' O0 <:(
Dave
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Hi Carl
I would do what yo say use paint then sand it to show low spots. Use some thing like a credit card to skim filler over the low spots then repeat the whole proces again
.good luck
John
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Dave - I am very lucky in this respect..........Flo is very supportive of the Linkspan Models venture and really doesnt complain when I spend so long in the workshop.....even after being at the 'day job' 9 to 5 before. In fact, she regularly pops down with coffee and cake :-)) :-)) :-))
John - that is my task for tomorrow evening........spray the underhull black and set to with the sanding blocks again. I think my main difficulty is actually seeing the finish as all the surface is the same colour at the moment.
Have to say, it was getting me down a bit by this evening...........
C
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Have to say, it was getting me down a bit by this evening...........
Hi Carl - maybe you just need a break from it. You seem like a guy who gets done what he wants to
and I'm sure you will get this sorted too O0. Maybe the flash coat will make all the difference.
By the way - my wifes great - she just has priorities that aren't always like mine (but then she's usually right too).
Dave
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Persevere Carl, it will all come right in the end. The best way during any session is to quit while you are ahead and then when you come back to it you will be on a high. Time spent on getting it right up front will be repaid many times over when you go into production.
Colin
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Thankyou all for your words of encouragement :-)) :-)) :-))
It can get pretty lonely in the workshop at times <:( <:(, and I am constantly thinking of what the reaction of you guys, the modelling community, would be when I finally release the kit if it is not up to scratch {:-{ {:-{ {:-{.
Feeling a lot better this morning now - and looking forward to getting back in there this evening to turn more filler into dust {-) {-)
Cheers
Carl
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release the kit if it is not up to scratch
No way you'd do that Carl - it's just the Devil whispering in your ear mate.
You're pushed and you're tired but you will get there, and with a great product too.
Dave .............. currently happily sanding my Spraymaster ......... but working tonight <:(
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Hi Carl,
Just a few words to say congrats on your choice of a lovely, gracious, charming, seamanlike and modelworthy prototype in the FEV, and your diligent and interesting labours to bring what is sure to be a cracking big kit to us lucky modellers, she looks great in so many different liveries and could even give rise to a new one design class for Cross Channel Ferry Racing? :D Thanks for the excellent updates and photos when will we have a shiny FG hull to look upon? %)
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when will we have a shiny FG hull to look upon? %)
Hi Andy
If Carl rubs any harder and faster he'll need a Fire Boat along side his plug O0
Nice to see customers lining up for the product - that should make the work
seem more worthwhile while he slaves away on it.
Have to say between this thread and Neil's kit building thread I am begining to
realise why kits cost the money they do.
Dave
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Hi Carl,
Just been reading up on your thread. Sorry I haven't posted in a while as I've been busy with other things. I'll get back to my own rebuild later this week.
Carl, please keep up the good work as it's vitally important you get this finished to your high standards. I've just come back from a motorhome ski holidays to the alps and to say I was disappointed with the ferry crossing would be an understatement. The ferry we were on on the outward journey was the Pride Of Burgundy, efficient but extremely boring to look at and travel in. The inside was small, tatty and the food a rip off. If you have a sausage meal it's all charged separately which really boosts the cost. We were a few hours early and we were asked to pay an extra £64.00. I remember the trips with my dad and he always got to the ferry early with no extra charge or fuss. I moaned a bit and got away with an extra £10.00 surcharge. Anyway enough of my hijacking Carl's thread but my point is I really want to replicate the FEV of TT and create something nice to look at with great memories to boot. KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!! It'll be well worth it in the end.
Thanks Antony
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hello there - new to this mularkey so apologies if l mess up. l used to work on FE VII late 70's - Zeebrugge run - and loved it....so
am delighted to see a model of a sister coming along - such great looking ships. Used to work on Earl Siward and
HOFE too but am willing to bid my time on their models.
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Hello to you too Bushyboy
You've picked a good thread to join - it's about due for an update.
Alas Carl has to sleep occasionally - a pity really.
Anyway there are quite a few ferry nuts about here.
If you build post it up O0
Dave
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Hi Andy
Nice to see customers lining up for the product - that should make the work
seem more worthwhile while he slaves away on it.
If Carl rubs any harder and faster he'll need a Fire Boat along side his plug O0
Have to say between this thread and Neil's kit building thread I am begining to
realise why kits cost the money they do.
Hello to you too Bushyboy
You've picked a good thread to join - it's about due for an update.
Alas Carl has to sleep occasionally - a pity really.
Anyway there are quite a few ferry nuts about here.
If you build post it up O0
Dave
Dave
Yes, where are you Carl, twice you have rumaged my feathers and still we await...
You have a potentially good product but time waits for no man!
Regards
Kim
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Dave
Yes, where are you Carl, twice you have rumaged my feathers and still we await...
You have a potentially good product but time waits for no man!
Regards
Kim
Hi Carl,
Take as long as you like. I'm willing to wait until you are entirely satisfied with your end product. Perfection has no time limits.
Thanks Antony
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Perfection has no time limits.
Hi Antony try saying that when you hit 55 {-) ;D
........ but you are right of course :} ........ but a peek might be nice.
Dave
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Hi,
in the FLOSS community there is a saying, Release early, release often!
Does anyone know what's happened to Carl? Long time no see.
I replied to his PM but never have received an answer since.
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Hi Deadwood
Last thing Carl said to me was he was extremely busy at work. So between his employer
and his own build he is probably really up against it timewise. Plus sometimes you just
need a break from things .........I do anyway.
Dave
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Carl was active on the Dover ferry forum on the 24th but I guess he's really busy.
What ever he is doing I wish him well and eagerly await the next instalment.
Ali
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Hi friends - I am truly sorry not to have been about for a while but, as well as being stupidly busy with the day-job (actually, working with others to keep the business afloat!), I have had some personal issues to contend with (which, as you can imagine, I have needed like a hole in the head!!!).
Please forgive me if I have not got back to you personally on matters - and now I notice that we have lost all our old PM's which is not going to help matters!!!!
I promise i WILL get in touch with you all soon............Ali - thank you for the nice surprise of the decals for SOFE - will contact you 'off forum' very soon.
Will update in a couple of weeks on the FEV front - I am sorry that not much has happened, but without the income from the day-job, I would be 'sunk'!!!
Carl
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Really nice to see you back Carl :-)) O0
I hope everything works out for you mate.
Dave
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Welcome back Carl, You had me worried for a while.
It's good to hear from you mate.
Ali.
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Hello Carl,
glad you are back.
Had I sent my PM during or around the crash I would have blamed it for our lost connection.
Because my account was nuked by the crash I had to reregister and must now struggle to regain credit for being eligable to send and receive PMs I suppose.
Btw, in the meantime I have posted a few more lines plans of modern ferries in my thread.
-
Hi Carl
nice to hear you.
I had a work trip to holland went out and back on P/O ferries. I brought a book on board . Two new ships one new era. It explains the maing of the Spirit of Britian/france and explanes why the bows are like the way they are.
John
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It explains the maing of the Spirit of Britian/france and explanes why the bows are like the way they are.
Do you mean the kind of goose neck bulb that is so common in temporary ferry designs?
Do they also explain the cause for the widespread use of duck tails or trim wedges?
I don't know the book that you bought.
But I am interested in the twins SPIRIT OF BRITAIN/FRANCE and would like to reconstruct the hull lines of them like I did for a few other ferries (see my latest reply to the other ferry thread here).
So if that book contained a small general arrangement would it be possible that you could provide me with a scanned image file of it?
-
Hi
The problm is the Sprit of Britian is a lot wider the the Pride of Dover. Since the Port link span mods were not going to be avaible before these ferris came in to Service the ferry had to be made in such way that it could work with the older link spans so nence her not very nice bow.
http://www.ferrypubs.co.uk/product.asp?strParents=&CAT_ID=&P_ID=503
There is a set of G/A in the book . PM me your email add and I will get a set to you. I think it is a good book and better with 50% off thank you P/O ferries on board shop. I have looked again at your thread on the German forum . You have done some very nice work there.
John
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Hello John,
many thanks for the scans and the photos.
You whet my appetite. Now I'm seriously considering buying a copy of the book about the two SPIRITs.
I also sooner or later will create a lines plan of the SOB (ouch, I guess this abbreviation is already related to something else %)).
-
Hi
Glad they were of use to you. I will check ever now and then on the German forum to see what you have done. I will have a look through my computer and see if I have any more ferry G/A + hull photo for you.
John
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Hi friends - I am truly sorry not to have been about for a while but, as well as being stupidly busy with the day-job (actually, working with others to keep the business afloat!), I have had some personal issues to contend with (which, as you can imagine, I have needed like a hole in the head!!!).
Please forgive me if I have not got back to you personally on matters - and now I notice that we have lost all our old PM's which is not going to help matters!!!!
I promise i WILL get in touch with you all soon............Ali - thank you for the nice surprise of the decals for SOFE - will contact you 'off forum' very soon.
Will update in a couple of weeks on the FEV front - I am sorry that not much has happened, but without the income from the day-job, I would be 'sunk'!!!
Carl
Hi Carl,
Nice to hear from you. Sorry about the late reply but I was waiting for an activation email after re-registering. Anyway took a chance tonight and I'm back in. I think we're all looking forward to your next update. Take care and persevere as it's going to be well worth your while and ours........
Thanks Antony
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Carl.
It’s odd that a builder can get so wrapped up in his own project that so much useful “stuff” can be missed.
Now that I’ve latched on to your trials and tribulations I must doff my imaginary hat to you. A mammoth task you’ve set yourself and it’s really heart-warming to see such perseverance.
As you may (or not) know, I’m a dedicated “scratch builder”…my choice. But I get the impression that making the prototype for a kit involves the scratch building process. To that end I was fascinated to see your use of “foam” when making the plug. Recently, “Bluebird” asked me why I didn’t use “blue foam” as a basis for a plug. Never having heard of it, and also being well down the road of traditional planking I had to reject the idea. But now that you’ve explained the “where’s and whys” I understand what he was getting at. I suppose both methods have their advantages and disadvantages. But possibly….just possibly…John had a point. The results you are getting are really making me re-evaluate my methods.
Even as a well experienced scratcher I really admire your work. Although I dread to imagine our lake being full of cross-channel ferries, I wish you well. Perseverence!
Good luck and regards. Bryan Young.
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Although I dread to imagine our lake being full of cross-channel ferries, Bryan Young.
What a wonderful thought, a lake full of green, orange, blue & white TT ferries, can't wait!!
Thanks Antony
-
I'll second that Antony.
I can just imagine a port set up with ferries coming and going, all in 1:96 scale..... HEAVEN!
Ali
-
Ali - don't forget the Kalakala's due in port too. O0 :}
Dave
-
Wow Dave, that is one ugly vessel :o Like an Airstream on water........horrible
-
It's like Marmite.
-
Ali - don't forget the Kalakala's due in port too. O0 :}
Wow, I've never heard of this ferry.
ShipSpotting.com (http://www.shipspotting.com/)
(http://cdn2.shipspotting.com/photos/small/3/3/3/457333.jpg) (http://www.shipspotting.com/gallery/photo.php?lid=457333)
© Raisuke Numata
Looks a bit like one of those Diesel Locos of the Pacific Union Railway.
Was her service as spectacular and reliable as the suspension of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j-zczJXSxnw)?
Seems they have some ingenious engineers in that region.
-
I'll post a little info tomorrow - she had many innovations and some history.
I'm going to build her soon.
Dave - Marmite Lover
-
Hi carl
an update on your ferry kit
john
-
Hi Carl
Yes, there's still interest O0
Dave
-
Me to Carl.
I hope it's still in development as I'm really eager for this kit.
Thanks Antony
-
Still about (just!!!)..........news soon!!!!!
But basically, yes - still on track with the kit.......
Am being a completely fussy "xxxxx" at the moment.....this has to be RIGHT!!!!!
No half-baked, rushed or 'there or thereabouts' with these models for me.......it either has to be correct or not at all........even if it takes longer......sorry.
Carl
-
Hey Carl
No need for the 'Sorry' - you're doing it right and people will appreciate that in the final product.
I'm looking forward to seeing it all come together for you.
Dave
-
Still about (just!!!)..........news soon!!!!!
But basically, yes - still on track with the kit.......
Am being a completely fussy "xxxxx" at the moment.....this has to be RIGHT!!!!!
No half-baked, rushed or 'there or thereabouts' with these models for me.......it either has to be correct or not at all........even if it takes longer......sorry.
Carl
Hi Carl,
FANTASTIC!!. Nice to hear you're still working on the kit. It will be well worth all the effort as there's nothing out there for the TT enthusiast. Can't wait.
Thanks for letting us know.
Antony
-
Time for an update methinks!!! O0
Plug for the hull just about finished now......final coating and sanding to be done to get to 'baby-bum' smooth. Need a tad warmer weather for this....
Drawings to be supplied in the kit are now finished bar the proof reading (bound to be a snag or two...). There will be 12 drawings, each of A1 size: either full kit size (1:96) of half kit size (1:192), dependent on what they are showing.
As a taster - here they are:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/LM01FEV001PB.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/LM01FEV002PB.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/LM01FEV003PB.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/LM01FEV004PB.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/LM01FEV005PB.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/LM01FEV006PB.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/LM01FEV007PB.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/LM01FEV008PB.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/LM01FEV009PB.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/LM01FEV010PB.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/LM01FEV011PB.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/LM01FEV012PB.jpg)
All the best,
Carl 8)
-
Time for an update methinks!!! O0
And whatc an update it was Carl :-)) I'm really looking forward to seeing the final products
Dave
-
Hi Carl,
Thanks for the update. I've been checking the forum regularly for this so I'm delighted that you've made good progress. The kit is eagerly awaited, can't wait to get started.
Thanks Antony
-
Here's another auld bird.
-
got the plans for the duke of lancaster - reduced to 1/4 of original to post.
(http://s9.postimage.org/5vw8ob5x7/Duke_of_Lancaster_0003vsmall.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/5vw8ob5x7/)
Grendel
-
The paper the plans are on is probably thicker than the hull now, only being held together by graffiti and asbesdos!
-
Ah I had the tracing paper / film plans to scan from my dad who used to work for sealink and was always consulted before things like that were thrown (which is why he has a shed full of plans photos and even the paintings of the boats that were displayed).
Grendel
-
And thanks to you Grendel, I also now have copies of these drawings, along with a few others you were so kind to let me have :-)) :-)) :-))
In the fullness of time, they will be transformed into drawings for r/c kits......
Carl 8)
-
ah you were one of the people who managed to download them - excellent.
Grendel
-
You sent them on a disc to me a year or so ago, along with Lord Warden, Speedlink Vanguard, Ship 1717, TS Dover and TSS Avalon. :-)) :-))
-
The plans look great Carl.
Will you be doing the fibre glassing yourself or have you found a local firm?
I can't wait to see some kit parts.
Ali
-
Hi Ali - thanks for the compliments...
No, I will leave the fibreglassing to those who know what they are doing......
I have a shortlist who I will be visiting with the plug to see what they can do.
I have learnt a lot with this plug - the main thing being to try a different way of doing it!!!!
For the Norland, I will use thicker ply formers and use the plank on frame method to get fairer lines from the off, instead of throwing tons of filler at it and then trying to sand the shape.
At least with the plank on frame I stand a better chance of getting the plug done a little quicker - without creating a god awful mess in the process {-) {-) {-) .
Carl 8)
PS - Kit parts in the next few weeks ok2 ok2 ok2
-
Hi carl
wow that is a serious set of plans ,looks really good.
John
-
HiCarl,
On a scale of 1-5, What would be the difficulty rating of this kit?
Ali
-
Hi Ali - Certainly not a beginners kit.....
But I would hope that, with the drawings, build photos on CD plus Instruction Booklet, it should be straight forward.
Maybe a 3 to 4?
I plan to write the instructions as I envisage the build to proceed, then amend them as the prototype takes shape.
I think the Norland would be an easier kit all round - at least it seems so at the moment from the drawings. Of which, I would like to get a set over to you when ready for you to cast an eye over if thats ok? If there is anyhting glaringly obviously wrong, you would be the man to spot it!!!
Carl
-
I'll be more than happy to have a look Carl. I look forward to seeing how you are getting but I can understand if you want to keep certain things secret for now.
Alastair
-
UPDATE 23rd January 2013.....
The plug as it stands at the moment - covered with filler and smoothed all over. But needs more work......
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/35-230113-plug.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/36-230113-plug.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/37-230113-plug.jpg)
And we had this delivered today............
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/38-230113-laser.jpg)
The sheet of window and opening 'blanks' - laser cut ready to be fettled and fitted to the hull plug.
Carl 8)
-
NICE!
Ali
-
Beautiful. It's getting there Carl.
Thanks Antony
-
hi Carl
very nice
john
-
Perfect ! Magnifique !
I have nothing to add. I 'm refitting my ferry "m/v bretagne" and I think it will end in June. Do you think you should be able to sale the " Free Enterprise v" plans and a CD photos in summer ? I'm looking for the plans issue.
-
Hello
May I say you ferry Bretagne is very nice. do you any more details of her and any more photos.
john
-
Perfect ! Magnifique !
I have nothing to add. I 'm refitting my ferry "m/v bretagne" and I think it will end in June. Do you think you should be able to sale the " Free Enterprise v" plans and a CD photos in summer ? I'm looking for the plans issue.
Hi Midori - Thanks for the expressions!!! The Bretagne of yours looks wonderful - how does she sail?
As for the plans, they will only be available as a part of the whole kit as they are specifically drawn to assist in the build of the kit. They are not plans designed to build the model from 'scratch'.
With luck, and a fair wind, the kit should be available by the autumn of this year. The plug for the hull is almost finished, and I am currently working with a specialist to produce the kit of parts for the rest of the ship.
Carl
-
With luck, and a fair wind, the kit should be available by the autumn of this year. The plug for the hull is almost finished, and I am currently working with a specialist to produce the kit of parts for the rest of the ship.
Carl
Hi Carl,
I don't know how many kits you are planning for your first production but please make sure I'm on your initial order list. Great timing for next winters build.
Thanks Antony
-
Hi Anthony - I will make as many as people want them O0 O0
First things first - get the prototype built........if there is anything wrong with the design, that is the time to find out, not while selling the kits and allowing the purchasers to find out for themselves <*<
No worries mate - your name is down.....and thanks so much for your patience and support :-))
Carl
-
A little learning goes a long way............
A some of you might be aware, I have spend a not inconsiderable amount of time preparing drawings for the build of Free Enterprise V. Now, these I have tried to make these drawings as clear and concise as possible and, with the backing of an instruction book and CD of photos, I am hoping that the build would be straight forward.
HOWEVER
Whilst preparing the sheet of parts for the plug, to highlight the openings, I have been in discussions with a very helpful chap who runs a small laser-cutting business. He is not in the model trade, and he has found the idea of working on this kit fascinating.
It was during one of our discussions about what can be achieved, and what he needed from me to make his job easier, that the issue of the width of the laser cuts came up. It appears that the cut in the plastic has a width dependent upon the thickness of the styrene to be cut. This cut line is called the 'kerf' and is tremendously important in the design of the kit for, if it is not allowed for, then all the accuracy that has been drawn goes out the window.
Chris (for that is his name) is currently cutting me some samples on various thicknesses of styrene so that I will know what to allow, however we already know that a kerf in 1mm styrene is 0.8mm wide. Now, that doesnt seem much, but when you take 0.4mm off two sides of a superstructure wall (0.4mm either side of the centreline of the laser beam), and then multiply that by 10 parts that make up the length of superstructure, that is 18 x 0.4 = 7.2mm. In effect, the superstructure would be 7.2mm SHORTER than designed!!!! On any model that is noticeable, let alone one at 1:96.
SO
Now that we know that laser beams cut a width based on the thickness of styrene used, I have to now go back through all my production drawings and increase the size of all the parts by 0.4mm all round. Once the laser has done its job, the final part will end up being exactly the right size and, in theory anyway, all the parts should fit!!!!!
There is a lot more to this kit production business than meets the eye... ok2
All the best :-))
Carl 8)
-
Hi Carl,
welcome to the joy's of laser cutting :-))
keep up the great work on your kit
cheers
vnkiwi
-
(Chris) has found the idea of working on this kit fascinating
You're like a Ferry evangelist converting the heathens as you pass Carl O0
I can see Chris getting the bug in no time.
Kerfs .... Interesting.
Dave
-
{-) {-) {-) {-)
Bless you my son..... :P
-
Hi Carl,
If it helps -
Your Kerf should be 2x beam width.
To be producing 0.8mm kerf in 1mm styrene you are either out of focus or using a low powered laser which will melt the plastic rather than vaporising it.
You might also want to look at corner power.
Plugs getting there, well done!
Regards,
Kim
-
Hi Carl,
A great job, and as it looks a heck of a lot of work, your construction of this ferry model kit.
As you are fond of ferries (and probably many of your followers here as well) I thought you might like this German built ferry too.
I have created a lines plan of MV PRINSESSE RAGNHILD after a ship description in a German naval architecture periodical issue of the year of her build/commissioning in 1981.
But I sticked to her original appearance as she was delivered because I believe that they ruined her looks completely when they later added sponsons and duck tail (ok, they probably were forced to by SOLAS),
and even worse, a lot of extra superstructure.
Unfortunately, on Shipspotting there are only two photos that depict her in her maiden, unspoiled appearance of which the first shows her in her original JAHRE Line livery
ShipSpotting.com (http://www.shipspotting.com/)
(http://cdn2.shipspotting.com/photos/small/6/4/5/1732546.jpg) (http://www.shipspotting.com/gallery/photo.php?lid=1732546)
© Jeroen V
and the second one a little later with a newer, Olympics advertising, livery
ShipSpotting.com (http://www.shipspotting.com/)
(http://cdn2.shipspotting.com/photos/small/5/9/2/1194295.jpg) (http://www.shipspotting.com/gallery/photo.php?lid=1194295)
© Ulf Kornfeld
Later from Jahre I think evolved COLOR Line for which she served the Kiel-Oslo-Haul for many years.
I think she too would make a great RC model.
For those interested here are the hydrostatics for the DWL (http://slipway.in-berlin.de/maritime/ships/prinsesse_ragnhild/PRINSESSE_RAGNHILD_DWL_Hydrostats.html) that DELFTship calculated.
-
Thats one nice looking ferry! And your right, they totally ruined her looks.
Hama
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Hi Deadwood
What year was she modified please?
I will look for some photos 1981 - ??
Dave
-
Hi Dave,
as it seems there was a major conversion which also included a lengthening of the ship.
According to this (http://trid.trb.org/view.aspx?id=441756) it must have happened in 1992.
I can imagine that Color Line at the time were mulling over what would come cheaper, ordering a replacement newbuilding or having the 1981 PRINSESSE RAGNHILD completely reshaped and refurbished.
Actually, there's a nice article about PRINSESSE RAGNHILD in the German Wikipedia (http://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prinsesse_Ragnhild_%281981%29) which unveils all particulars before and after conversion(s).
According to this article in 1992 PR was lengthened by a 33.5 m midship section at Astilleros Espagnoles in Cadiz.
That was when Color Line evolved from the merger between Jahre Line and Norway Line and continued operating her as their completely rebuilt new flagship between Kiel and Oslo.
On deckplans (aka www.hhvferry.com (http://www.hhvferry.com)) there is this deckplan (http://hhvferry.com/bahamascelebration_dpx.html) that depicts her after conversion and as BAHAMAS CELEBRATION.
Regards,
Ralph
P.S. PRINSESSE RAGNHILD's successor (when she was sold to Celebration Cruise, after an intermezzo on the Hirtshals-Oslo-Route, and once again converted from ferry to cruise ship) COLOR FANTASY
I have also tried to capture, as can be seen here (http://www.rc-modellbau-schiffe.de/wbb2/thread.php?postid=266057#post266057).
But this was published a bit prematurely and still requires a bit of fairing.
-
Hi Ralph - this really is magnificent work!!!
Unfortunately, I really cant get to grips with DS......I have the same problems at work - I am struggling to understand 'Sketchup' and my boss is beginning to insist that I learn it soon. All the youngsters in our drawing office have no problems, but me and another colleague, both of us knocking on the door of 50, are really struggling!!!
I take it that you have managed to overcome your computer problems from late last year? These DS lines drawings are real works of art.....
OK if I be in touch soon? I have a few questions if I may?
Tschuss!!
Carl
-
but me and another colleague, both of us knocking on the door of 50, are really struggling!!!
{-)
Me too is a fierce knocker. My semi-century knock knockity knock awaits me this September. Who's knocking? Is this the Reaper's knock?
-
Quick update:
Just sent the drawings for the superstructure parts to the laser-cutting specialist for a trial run...Paying him a visit next Tuesday. Drawings for the 3D printer are being done next week to produce the masters for the fittings.
When I get the parts back I will drop a few images on here.
Living in a 2 bed apartment, as I do at the moment because of my wife's attendance at uni, I am lacking a suitable place to work on the plug at the moment. To address this, I spent Saturday working on my fathers workshop roof, replacing the old felt with profiled tin cladding. Nice and waterproof now, so now I have somewhere to 'make a mess'!!!!
Many thanks for all your support and patience folks........really appreciate it O0 O0
Carl
-
I spent Saturday working on my fathers workshop roof ....... so now I have somewhere
:o Ooh you don't want to be messing about with plugs on a tin roof Carl :P
Dave
-
Goodies!!!!!!!! :-)) :-)) :-))
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/39-190213laser_zpsc1446c46.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/40-190213laser_zps6db45ccf.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/41-190213laser_zpscae5ce29.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/42-190213laser_zps4b83fd2a.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/43-190213laser_zps144b77c8.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/44-190213laser_zpse4d1b8fd.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/45-190213laser_zps138f2cd9.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/46-190213laser_zps55a5d80c.jpg)
All the pre-prototype kit styrene parts, laser cut on 0.25, 0.5, 1, 1.5 & 2mm sheets.
A few issues cropped up with some parts being too close together so that when the laser passed by there was a bit of distortion and some of the very small parts (especially in the thicker sheets) were just too small to cut out.
But that was the whole idea of today - to find out what was possible and what was not!!!
Onwards and upwards O0 O0
Carl 8)
-
Hi Carl
looking very nice. I is amassing what can be done nowerdays.
On the windows would it not be better to let the laser cut all the window out so the blank falls out?
John
-
Looking good Carl,
If I was you I'd really be finding it hard to resist the temptation to putting some of those parts together.
Ali
-
Hi Ali, Hi John....
For the windows, we have decided that they will have a deep etch as opposed to being cut right through. That way, the heat when the lines are close together will not distort the part. If the parts dropped out fully, they would clutter up the machine and it would be a bind having to retrieve the bits from under the bed - especially the very small ones!
And as for assembling - that is the plan! I want to see if I have the angles right and I need a structure around the bridge built so that I can determine the shape of the bridge front and windows.
Really helpful chap at the laser cutting place.........allowed me to hang around the workshop while he did the cutting so that we could discuss the pitfalls and changes needed for future cutting.
Even discussed the idea of producing the superstructure parts in acrylic.....but the basic cost of the material is prohibitive.....6 times the cost of styrene!!! But if I could, the cuts would be super-accurate and clean with no 'melting'.
One to think over...............
-
Hi Carl
I spoke to a company that did laser cutting. What they said is the same as what you have been told. acrylic is the best ,but the stuff cost the earth. There is styrene but can distorte ,but your parts look very good. Then there is laser grade ply wood ,which is very good but you get that burnt edge.
It is good too see the process getting better and cheaper
John
-
A bit of progress on the graphics for the kit instructions:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/DDeckStern3D_zps10d548a6.jpg)
D deck components
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV3D_zps2bf0f6ab.jpg)
C deck components as fitted over D deck.
Each deck will have an exploded 3D diagram to illustrate the relationship between the components, and detail items will also be treated in the same way.
A picture says a thousand words!!!
Carl 8)
-
Hi Carl
they look real good . The one thing I noticed it would be usefull is to show were X2 walls meet which edge marries to what face. Ie were D1 and D2 come together the edge of D1 go on to the face of D2 etc. Other than that they look top.
John
-
Hi John
I understand what you are saying mate :-))
That will be clear on the 2D black and white plans:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/demo1_zps72e8f8dd.jpg)
And thanks for pointing my eyes to the 3D drawing again.....I noticed that I had transposed parts D0 and D2!!!
All corrected now though :-)) :-))
Carl 8)
-
Hi Carl
thoes look like they are going to be very through plans and instructions.
John
-
UPDATE 19th March 2013:
Progress has been made on assembling the D and C deck components. These form the open car deck at the stern and the small open deck above.
This work is pre-prototype; to confirm ideas, test theories on construction method and to iron out any bugs in the components or to see if things can be made easier or better for the modeller.
The funnel has also been test assembled, and it was found that it would be better to allow 1 or 2mm extra on the 'skin' top and bottom for a better fit. This extra can then be trimmed off by the modeller so that the 'skin' sits flush.
Onwards then............
Carl 8)
Funnel framing with skin ready to apply:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/47-090313funnel_zps0ea47bdb.jpg)
Funnel with skin attached. A vac-formed cap will top this:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/48-090313funnel_zpsc80fc813.jpg)
C and D decks (D deck being the open car deck):
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/49-090313DandCdecks_zps7a447eae.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/52-090313DandCdecks_zpsd53b068e.jpg)
The start of B deck being applied:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/54-090313DandCdecks_zpsfc55167a.jpg)
General views of the superstructure so far:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/55-090313DandCdecks_zpsd91d09b3.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/56-090313DandCdecks_zps520d1b4d.jpg)
-
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/57-090313DandCdecks_zps24d3a1b8.jpg)
Looks lopsided, but I can assure you it isnt!!! Just my poor photography %)
The area in question on the real ship:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/58-090313realboat_zps9959064d.jpg)
CT 8)
-
Looks moth watering good
John
-
moth watering good
Perhaps Pyralis Farinalis the Meal Moth {-)
Yes I think the Ferry fans will be like moths round a candle with this kit Carl.
Dave
-
Looking real good Carl,
My 'moth' is watering at the prospect of seeing the next instalment.
Ali
-
Thanks for the encouragement guys :-)) :-))
The hardest part of this so far is getting the sheer correct - especially as this is being built 'out' of the hull. When the 'proper' build commences, the decks will take a natural sheer from bow to stern - so long as the supporting timber bearers have been fitted correctly to the hull sides.
One tip that will be in the instructions will be to drop the 2mm thick deck components - and the curved superstructure walls - into almost boiling water to soften them slightly and give them a 'pre-bend' before fitting them. 2mm styrene is quite reluctant to bend easily!!!
Additionally, each deck will need to be detailed, painted and finished before the next deck is applied. This is especially so in the case of D deck (the open car deck) as it is very noticable on the finished model, and would be almost impossible to do after C deck has been fitted.
We were discussing the options of a bow thruster today, and have decided to fit one of these:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/bowthrust_zps17a5e27b.jpg)
A tad expensive at £80, but looks far more realistic with the props in the tube than the impeller type.
Additionally, we are going to fit an Action unit that will give us proportional control over the outer propshafts relative to the rudder position in a turn, with the central shaft running at a constant speed. This, with the bow thrust, should give quite good maneuoverability (sp?) when docking....
Carl 8)
-
Looks very interesting, would certainly like to build one...
Dave. :-)) :-)) :-))
-
Hi Carl,
I would plump for this type, It looks more robust than the paddle type and as you said more realistic.
How well would this one fit your hull?
It would have to be cut to the right length which is fair enough but is the tunnel diameter correct?
Ali
-
H All
ok it was a typo but my pet moth in my wallet says ;D .
On the bow thrust front. have heard on these units that the lnk between the motor and the gearbox input shaft can slip and it s a pain to get to. I think they do look real good. I found ths company in the US owned by Rick. Hs modeling skills are top so have a look at this thrusters.
http://www.scalemodelcastings.com/Tunnel-thrusters_c_33.html (http://www.scalemodelcastings.com/Tunnel-thrusters_c_33.html)
On esc my small Finnjet had X2 action esc and there mixer. I was not impressed by them at all so the were replaced by Mtroics and the boat improved. I am aware that Fnnjet was a X2 prop x2 rudder set and FEV is X3 prop and x1 rudder set up. This is some thing I have been thinkng about for the sprit class But I do not have an answer at the moment.
A small tip for your car decks for lane markings. get some yellow insulation tape cut a lenth and LIGHTLY stick it to a clean glass surface. Using a ruler and a very sharp knife cut thin strips down the length to the required width. use the knife blade to pick them up. When laying them on the deck rub one end down firm then lay the strip down trying NOT to strech it as if you do it will come un stuck later. Rub it down and there is you lane markings
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=817609&page=5 (http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=817609&page=5)
John
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The Raboesch units are really a tad too big, having an internal diameter of 30mm whereas I could do with something that has an internal diameter of 18 / 19mm. John - that link you gave seems interesting. His smallest unit is 24mm with an in-runner brushless. Getting there!!!
If I fit the Raboesch, then this is what it would look like from the outside;
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/bowthrust_zpsa117ed9b.jpg)
However, the other question would be if it was too wide to fit between the hull sides %) %) %) . A little more research needed methinks!!!
As for the lane markings.....good idea John :-)) . But on our prototype, because she is being modelled as at 1973, there were no lane markings. They came in after 1976. I have some photos from 1973 showing the decks as plain dark green, with the internal link-ramps edged in white. Really, the ships were so narrow back then compared to today that they had no real need of lane markings.....the ships bodywork kept the traffic in line!!! {-)
-
'After 1976'
were there any big changes around 76 Carl?
Dave
-
In 76 all the ships adopted the Thoresen orange livery when they had their refits that winter. All my photos from pre-76 showed plain green decks.....post 76 the car deck only had lane markings, and a wide yellow line 'defending' the deck equipment either side (winches etc.) The lorry deck didnt have lane markings at all - at least not until she was with TEF:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/tadla_cardeck_zps840792cf.jpg)
-
Aeriel shot of her later in life:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/cardeckaeriel_zps70b1d148.jpg)
Carl 8)
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Hi Carl
if you hull width is less than 50/55mm at the bow were the thruster will sit then the Raboesch 108-30 is a no no as that is an aprox width between the x2 props.
I think the idea of using a thruster with a 33mm OD ,30 mm ID trying to make it look like a thruster with a 19mm ID is a non starter as it will be a night mare making the hole smaller.
John
ps photos look nice
-
Ah well - been doing some sums and measuring.....
It no gonna work!!! The thruster unit is too large (as John mentions...)......
Going to have a long think on this one - really would like to see a prop in the tube if we can.....even if it isnt actually motorised....
I have an idea............dont know if it will work.......but will get back to you all soon.
CT 8)
-
Hi carl
there is only x2 options
1 the small 1" thruster from scale model castings might work. you might want to email rick there on the lenght ot the thruster
2 https://plus.google.com/photos/105202506859524458881/albums/5117538442090596849?banner=pwa
here there is a hollow shaft water is pumped via pump the fire out the hollow bow thruster shaft.
John
-
Or possibly you could think about a fake bow thruster/prop on show. Then an intake grill over a pumped thruster. Now that might be a daft idea ... I don't know but it just fell out the box. %%
Dave
-
https://plus.google.com/photos/105202506859524458881/albums/5117538442090596849?banner=pwa (https://plus.google.com/photos/105202506859524458881/albums/5117538442090596849?banner=pwa)
Wow!
Thanks John. I would URGE anybody to look through that gallery.
Me? I'm going to borrow my wife's knitting needles and give up. %%
Andy
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can only reiterate Andy's sentiments John, re your link - what a fantastic model! Superb craftsmanship, and a beautiful model. well done to the modeller whoever you are :-))
-
Hi carl
there is only x2 options
1 the small 1" thruster from scale model castings might work. you might want to email rick there on the lenght ot the thruster
2 https://plus.google.com/photos/105202506859524458881/albums/5117538442090596849?banner=pwa (https://plus.google.com/photos/105202506859524458881/albums/5117538442090596849?banner=pwa)
here there is a hollow shaft water is pumped via pump the fire out the hollow bow thruster shaft.
John
Thank you John.
I was looking for that link.
Apart from that this gallery displays ship model scale building from scratch at utter perfection some photos in it also depict a very fine scale solution of a stern thruster using a pump.
While of the twin stern thrusters the farther forward one is only a dysfunctional mock the rear one is built as a pump thruster where the water inlet or outlet (depending of the flow direction) is situated right in the thruster's propeller hub which cleverly conceals the principle.
I assume that the attached thruster propeller on that pump's in/outlet pipe is merely windmilling.
I would favour this kind of model thruster for small thruster diameters and space confined installations.
-
Ohh! sorry Carl, should have commented on your project before now - brilliant! if you continue as is re your kit quality, build instructions and images of same, I reckon you could well be recognised in the realms of Model Slipway should you desire to become a kit supplier. In my eyes they are second to none. Well done to you - am really enjoying your journey O0 Kind regards, Tony.
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Hi Carl,
I am the ferry enthusiast from Germany who sent you the mail. I have followed your proposal and have joined the forum. I have taken a look at your drawings, photos etc.. To be honest I am completely excited about your progress. The model is that what I was looking for since years. All the best for your project.
Best regards
Hermann
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Guten abend Hermann :-)) :-)) :-))
Welcome to Mayhem - so good of you to join us!!!
Honestly, I am glad you found us. Thank you for your kind words, encouragement and support - fingers crossed we should have something available by Christmas.
Now then - what would be better than to wake up on Christmas morning to find an r/c ferry kit in your stocking? O0 O0
More updates very soon.. ok2
Carl 8)
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Hi Hermann
welcome to the forum. There are a fair few ferry fans hear.
Hi Carl ok so your doing the FEV for christmass 2013 that must mean the sprit class for christmass 2014 :-)) . Better work on getting a bigger stocking LOL
john
-
so your doing the FEV for christmass 2013
John, just hold out for Carl's January sale %)
Hi Hermann, welcome to Mayhem.
Dave
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John, just hold out for Carl's January sale %)
Hi Hermann, welcome to Mayhem.
Dave
Now Dave
that sounds good , not sur what Carl will say LOL
john
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Bogof ? That's quite a common offer %)
Dave
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{-) {-) {-) {-) {-)
Just got back from the shipyard tonight - the concept version is coming along a treat!!! O0 O0
We have spotted a few typos and graphical errors on the drawings, and a couple of parts are 1 or 2mm too long or short....but now we know this, we can rectify the errors before the kits go into production. We have also, whilst building the concept superstructure, discovered a better way or two for constructing it, compared to how I originally envisaged it being put together. For instance, to get a better and more 'square' superstructure, it would be better to have more full 'cross bulkheads' as opposed to small individual wall parts where the superstructure changes direction. Far easier to build 90 degree angles with bigger parts than with fiddly little bits.
More photos soon :-)) :-))
As for the January Sales..........I am sure that there will be a 'special introductory price' for the first ones down the slipway ok2 .
But I will never tell my friends to 'bogof' {-) {-) {-)
Pip pip
Carl 8)
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So Have you decided on a price on the kit as I am sure everone is dying to know so we can save our pennies up
Dave
-
Hi Dave - I am hoping to keep the kit price down to around the £400 mark. At the moment, it certainly looks like I might be able to achieve that.
For that, you would get:
Fibreglass hull
Laser-cut styrene superstructure and deck parts
cast resin rudder and other smaller detailed parts (bits, bollards, winches etc.)
Etched brass fret containing companionways, window frames, railings and stanchions, grilles etc,
Vac formed lifeboats, funnel cap, bridge equipment cabinets, seats (internal for the observation lounge and external for the decks)
Wood strip and brass tube,
decals
propshafts, tubes and A-frames
brass props
11 x A1 sheets of drawings (both full sized and half sized - the half size being so because the detail will not fit on A1 at full size).
Instruction manual containing 3D assembly diagrams and suggested method and order of construction plus suggested radio and motor selection and installation.
CD containing photos of the build of the prototype plus photos of the real ship.
I think that's about it!!!
All the best,
Carl
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WOW thats a dammed good deal for anyone, and there is shuch a gap in the market for a ferry....irrronically I found a Townsend Thoresen Key ring today in a drawer upstairs as I used to go to france on them with my parents in the 70's Happy Days
Dave
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Thanks for the encouraging endorsement Dave - I really appreciate it :-))
Like you, I travelled with TT a lot during the 70's with my parents - that is why this particular ship is so special to me.....She epitomises the start of our family holidays......
Happy days O0
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Hi Dave & Carl,
Same here. The TT ferries were by far the best and as you've said the start of many a great holiday to France and beyond. Memories!!
Carl, if you achieve that price it will be the bargain of the century as I've seen small models of TT ferries on ebay go for £80 & £90. I very nearly bough a TT flag on there too but it went too high for me so we are not alone in having very fond memories of these fine ships.
Keep up the great work and it's so nice to see you making such progress.
Thanks Antony
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Evening All...
Well, while the shipyard workers are busy on the slipway building the boat, the design office has been working hard on preparing the instruction book for the owners......
A few more shots of what to expect -
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV3D-2_zpsdfb2ba99.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV3D-3_zps166aaa4e.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV3D-4_zps36f5cf07.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV3D-5_zpsbbbd2c77.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV3D-6_zps4497a751.jpg)
Additionally, the purchasing office has placed an order for all the outside deck bulkhead lights today - 30 side-looking LED's 9mm x 1.5mm x 1.5mm. Just the perfect size for 1:96!
Carl 8)
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Beautiful Carl :-))
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hi carl
very nice and clear. this will be a very useful aid to the builder .
john
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A really excellent project Carl, love the 3D drawings - helps us newbies no end. What will the overall finished size be?
Regards, tony.
Sorry! just re-read the posts and found the dimensions.
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Very professional Carl O0
Just out of curiosity can you also draw? I mean a freehand artistic type drawing of her?
Dave
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Hi Dave - me draw freehand? Not a chance mate!!!! Never have been able to. Even when a nipper, I always drew with a straight edge in my hand - usually buses, trucks and buildings %% %% %% .
Dad, on the other hand, is quite a talented artist:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/cityofportelizabeth001_zps4fd597e8.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/eagle001_zps4acecac9.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/MJTfeV001_zpsf8f0f49c.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/thamesbarge001_zps227713b8.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/DSC01479_zps6ece0888.jpg)
Carl 8)
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Such a glorious day, weather-wise, I thought I would pay a visit to the shipyard.
More progress on the superstructures - we have come across a couple of dimensional errors in the components; my drafting errors not building errors. Only a millimetre or two here and there, but still........ Easily rectified before production.
Everything seems to fit together as expected (hoped for?). We have found a different and easier way of putting some of the parts together, and this too will be reflected in the production kits.
Anyway, a few more progress photos for now.......
The rear crew canteen - windows still to be cut out. On the production kit they will be laser cut.
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/59-060413DandCdecks_zps49c073d3.jpg)
The components for B deck superstructures.
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/60-060413Bdecksuperstructure_zpsf8eacc48.jpg)
Coming together....
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/61-060413Bdecksuperstructure_zps16ed935c.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/62-060413Bdecksuperstructure_zps136b91dd.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/63-060413Bdecksuperstructure_zps2095650a.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/65-060413Bdecksuperstructure_zps3b06c13d.jpg)
A deck added:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/64-060413Bdecksuperstructure_zps02232a1a.jpg)
A deck superstructures:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/66-060413BandAdecksuperstructures_zps52c07298.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/67-060413BandAdecksuperstructures_zpsa92a319c.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/68-060413BandAdecksuperstructures_zpscddc3ba8.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/69-060413removablesection_zpsf90db9dc.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/70-060413removablesection_zps7649de9d.jpg)
This whole section is designed to be removable on the model to gain access to the interior of the ship:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/71-060413removablesection_zpsd1f60c75.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/72-060413removablesection_zpsec87d002.jpg)
More soon....
Carl 8)
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Both your Dad's watercolours and the model are superb Carl, looking really good.
Si:)
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You've got a real talented family. Your dad's paintings are fantastic.
Thanks for the update. I'm glad all your hard work is paying off and you can see real progress on her. I bet you got a good feeling once you started putting the deck together.
Antony
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Dad, on the other hand, is quite a talented artist:
Hi Carl,
Your dad is a really gifted marine artist.
I especially love his water coloured drawing of QE2 berthing in front of the Liver Building.
The only QE2 drawing I have ever done wasn't freehand either.
Your ferry kit construction is making great progress.
Carry on with your superb work.
Regards,
Ralph
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Hi Carl
My vote goes to Ellerman's City of Port Elizabeth :-)) On the other hand behind the QE2 and Liver Building you can also see the Port of Liverpool building where I worked as a young lad.
Great work on your project too. It is really interesting to see you picking up faults and ammending build methods.
Dave
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It's coming on great Carl,
Is there anything you've had to shape and cut out using extra styrene or is everything you see in the photos part of the kit?
Looks pretty comprehensive ether way. It's about time us ferry modellers had more than just a shell to work with.
Judging by your fine work I'm going to enjoy building the Norland.
Keep those shipyard workers happy Carl, they are doing a great job.
Ali
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Cheers for the comments guys - the shipyard workers are much more confident about what they are doing now, especially once they got their hands on the 3D drawings %) .
Ali - All that is shown so far is straight from the kit - all except the Crew Canteen wrap around part mentioned above. This was going to be a fibreglass part to be fitted, but once we were into the build, it became obvious that a f/g part was not really needed as the shape can easily be formed from 1mm styrene wrapped around the stern of the two decks, with the rear edge of the superstructure between the decks giving additional support.
As we dont have a hull yet, the decks and superstructures are being built on flat boards. You may notice some strips of styrene under the decks - these give the necessary sheer to the decks to allow the superstructure parts to fit properly. On the finished kit, this sheer will be formed by glueing wooden strips to the hull sides at the appropriate level (dims given on the plans) which, when the decks are glued to them, will give the required sheer fore and aft.
So far, so good............
Carl 8)
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Sounds good Carl,
The kit has a scratch built look to it which I love. I also love your choice in material. Styrene is the best stuff!
The best bit is if I break something (which I'm sure I will) I can make a new part using what I've got floating around my work desk.
some of my words keep underlining themselves, Ignore that.
Ali
-
Work has progressed at the shipyard - beginning to look like a ship now :-))
Just wish there was a hull...... %)
Carl
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/73-210413bridge_zps867410d6.jpg) (http://s513.photobucket.com/user/carlmtflo/media/Free%20Enterprise%20V/73-210413bridge_zps867410d6.jpg.html)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/74-210413bridge_zpsde18d8c4.jpg) (http://s513.photobucket.com/user/carlmtflo/media/Free%20Enterprise%20V/74-210413bridge_zpsde18d8c4.jpg.html)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/75-210412superstructure_zpsa48fb91c.jpg) (http://s513.photobucket.com/user/carlmtflo/media/Free%20Enterprise%20V/75-210412superstructure_zpsa48fb91c.jpg.html)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/76-210413bridge_zps97492bb6.jpg) (http://s513.photobucket.com/user/carlmtflo/media/Free%20Enterprise%20V/76-210413bridge_zps97492bb6.jpg.html)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/77-210413bridgeroof_zps1e05a89f.jpg) (http://s513.photobucket.com/user/carlmtflo/media/Free%20Enterprise%20V/77-210413bridgeroof_zps1e05a89f.jpg.html)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/78-210413bridgeroof_zps6ccc8172.jpg) (http://s513.photobucket.com/user/carlmtflo/media/Free%20Enterprise%20V/78-210413bridgeroof_zps6ccc8172.jpg.html)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/79-210413roof_zps12ddd487.jpg) (http://s513.photobucket.com/user/carlmtflo/media/Free%20Enterprise%20V/79-210413roof_zps12ddd487.jpg.html)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/80-210413roof_zps078dd484.jpg) (http://s513.photobucket.com/user/carlmtflo/media/Free%20Enterprise%20V/80-210413roof_zps078dd484.jpg.html)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/81-210413roof_zps3ce76433.jpg) (http://s513.photobucket.com/user/carlmtflo/media/Free%20Enterprise%20V/81-210413roof_zps3ce76433.jpg.html)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/82-210413roof_zpsb99ae184.jpg) (http://s513.photobucket.com/user/carlmtflo/media/Free%20Enterprise%20V/82-210413roof_zpsb99ae184.jpg.html)
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Hi Carl
very nice. the windows do look top quality. You are real going for a top end kit on both quality and speck.
John
-
I'm loving your work Carl.
I would buy one of these in a heart beat but I save the pennies and the space for an example of your next project.
The decking on the bridge wing looks great.
Ali
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Hi Carl,
absolutely amazing! The first real ferry kit to buy!
Best of luck for the next steps!
Regards from Germany
Hermann
-
What I really like about this kit are that it is an unusual subject, the laser cut styrene sheets and the superb construction diagrams contained in the instruction booklet. It's the sort of kit that would tempt me away from an ARTR purchase.
I tried to build a kit in the past from a well known company but failed miserably. My poor building skills, the kits less than detailed building instructions, badly photocopied diagrams and photos, flat sheets of styrene with smudged cutting outlines etc led to me selling it partially completed. Other kit manufacturers, if they have not done so already, should take note of the quality of this proposed kit which appears to set a very high standard indeed.
In fact as I type this I've decided I will purchase one given the opportunity. Keep up the good work Carl.
-
Wow this looks very promising! Keep up the good work, I'll certainly follow this to the finishline.
Hama
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Hi Carl,
Just to echo everyone above, she is looking FANTASTIC :-))
Thanks for keeping us upto date. The excitement grows with every new photo.
Antony
-
The more it looks idiot proof the more I am verily tempted ...
And watching it all come together is a great advert too.
Great Build Carl
Dave
-
The more it looks idiot proof
Dave
Bold statement Dave when you haven't met THIS idiot. My failings aside, it does look superb.
-
Good evening All :-))
No new pictures tonight (sorry), but VERY many thanks for all your kind words and expressions of support. It is REALLY appreciated :-)) :-)) :-)) .
The day job is keeping me out of the workshop during the week unfortunately, but have spent all day today doing more prep on the plug - should be some exciting photos of that next week %) .
I am very encouraged by the way that the decks and superstructures have gone together, and having all the windows pre-cut by laser certainly makes an easier and tidier job of one area of modelling ships that can really stand out.
We were adding the clear spray screen glazing to the bridge wings today, and have come to the conculsion that 'canopy glue' is the stuff to use - really strong and no misting of the clear plastic.
Right - time for a decent shower now to get half a kilo of filler dust out of my hair!!!!!
More updates soon!!!
Carl 8)
-
'afternoon all :-))
Just come in from the workshop.........quick update....
The plug is just a matter of days away from being taken to the fabricators now....just a little fettling on one or two areas and the window 'blanks' to add and we will be there :
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/88-040513plug_zps0fa4110f.jpg) (http://s513.photobucket.com/user/carlmtflo/media/Free%20Enterprise%20V/88-040513plug_zps0fa4110f.jpg.html)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/89-040513plug_zps7085d9c8.jpg) (http://s513.photobucket.com/user/carlmtflo/media/Free%20Enterprise%20V/89-040513plug_zps7085d9c8.jpg.html)
Back in the workshop tomorrow............... ok2
Carl 8)
-
Very nice Carl
starting to get there
john
-
SMOOOOOOOTH!!!!
Ali
-
Any further developements on this
Dave
-
Hi Carl,
Any chance of an update please as it was all going so well, then...................?
Thanks Antony
-
It would be nice to hear from you Carl O0
You are missed, and not just for your Ferrylicious build.
Dave
-
Patience my dear fellow, I've been in touch with Carl recently and he will reveal all in due course.
Ali
-
Hi Ali,
good to hear that you are in contact with Carl regarding this issue.
Send warm regards from the German ferrymaniac to him if you are in touch.
Thanks
Hermann
-
I will pass on your comments ferrymaniac.
I won't say too much but Carl has had some highs and he's had some lows over the last few months. He is however continuing his research and development work.
Indeed he's currently in Ostend, Belgium looking over the Gardinia, no doubt one of his future kits.
All that's left to say is......SIT TIGHT.
Ali
-
Belated happy new year everybody!!
Whilst I havent been on here updating every 5 minutes, I havent been idle. We moved house up to the Midlands just before Christmas and with all the upheaval, modelling and development had to take a back seat for a little while. Suffice to say, at our new abode we have space for a half decent workshop, which is now about 50% built.
In the meantime, I have been drawing, designing and researching for numerous models but particularly FEV, Norland and Spirit of Free Enterprise.
For FEV, I have now completed the design-work for the ships fittings (vents, bollards, winches etc.) and have had a first batch 3D printed by a UK firm. The material is nylon and, whilst they will need a little fettling to remove manufacturing dust etc., I have to say that I am impressed with how things have turned out. To get economies of scale for the cost, I had sufficient parts made suitable for 10 kits! Total cost in the region of £100. At a scale of 1:96, they are small components and the limitations of the 3D printing process and tolerances does not allow for ultra-fine detail at this scale. Let me know what you think? For me, once fettled and painted I am sure they will be fine.
Here is what we have had done so far:
Warping drums for the mooring winches:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/92-140214_zps089a34eb.jpg)
5 cylinder 'radial' motor for the mooring winches:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/95-140214_zps777f5936.jpg)
The mooring winches themselves (1 has been removed ready for painting):
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/101-140214_zpsfeb7e85d.jpg)
Car deck gates - we tried to make these from 0.25 styrene sheet and strip, but the glue just destroyed them!!
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/94-140214_zps9227bf0a.jpg)
P & S navigation light boards for alongside the bridge:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/93-140214_zpsad741728.jpg)
Inter-deck companionway stairs - complete and ready to just fit between the decks at the rear quarters of the vessel:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/97-140214_zps2aa76ce1.jpg)
Traditional bollards:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/100-140214_zps476e4c0b.jpg)
Single fairlead rollers:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/99-140214_zpsc0733f42.jpg)
Double fairlead rollers:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/96-140214_zps7353b5d2.jpg)
And finally for now, various vents that can be found on the decks of the vessel:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/98-140214_zps6a01aa1b.jpg)
More to come............................... O0
Carl
-
I've been following your thread since the beginning, and am mightily impressed with what your doing.
One question if I may, why nylon? I've always found nylon very difficult to glue and paint.
Keep up the good work, and will be interested in all future progress.
cheers
vnkiwi :-))
-
Nice one Carl, the parts look great to me.
Let us know the best paint to use on nylon and if it has to be primed first.
Glad to see you're making steady progress on the FEV kit.
When do you anticipate taking orders for FEV so I can start gathering the necessary funds?
Thanks Antony
-
Hi carl
looking good. Had you looked in Frosted ultra detal FUD. cost more but has a much better finish .
john
-
Hi Carl,
Nice to you back in the game!
The Nylon parts look great, unfortunately this material will not hold paint when in it's raw state. I have however found that when coated with resin it seals up nicely.
I recommend dipping the parts in some low viscosity polyurethane resin for a few seconds then hanging out to dry.
The alternative is having the parts printed in the more expensive detail plastic.
Keep us posted Carl, good luck
Ali.
-
look superb Carl.....pity you ain't building to 1:48.....I'd have had some of those off you for my Jupiter.
neil.
-
Hello,
Any updates going.
-
HI Carl
any news on the ferry
john
-
HI Carl
any news on the ferry
john
I hope Carl is still going ahead with this project as the silence is very worrying and he was making such good progress.
Please Carl give us an update.
Thanks Antony
-
Last active 5th june....He was going to contact me regarding painting the plug etc and never did
Dave
-
thats a real shame . Hope some thing happens
john
-
thats a real shame . Hope some thing happens
john
Don't give up hope.
We've got to hear some news sooner or later. The amount of work that's gone into the project it's got to be worth completing. I really hope so. Come on Carl keep the project alive.
Thanks Antony
-
Really interesting project!
I wonder how hard it would be to convert it to the "ROMILDA"
-
Well - I am still alive!!!
So sorry for not keeping things up to date on here, but I have had a real bear of a year this year and priorities have had to be re-evaluated. I wont go into details, but please rest assured that the project(s) are still there and WILL be progressed with - but my 'day job' has had to take priority this year otherwise there would have been serious financial repurcussions and, eventually, no hope of completing the kits.
STAVROS - PLease, please please accept my humblest appologies........I do value your experience and expertise and really would like to take you up onyour kind offer. It wont be until the new year though due to work commitments.
EVERYONE - I want to get these boats done............it is my dream.........I am NOT going to give up now!!!!
NOW......to add the cherry to the icing on the cake (and as a couple of you will already know), I have had a 'slight' disaster in the Linkspan Models design studio........the crux of the matter being that the hard drive that contained ALL of the design work and prototype info to date failed quite spectacularly a few weeks ago. The consequence being that ALL my data for Free Enterprise, Pride of Dover and Norland were lost or corrupted and I was unable to retrieve ANYTHING. Since then, I have had a data recovery specialist looking into the case and they have managed to salvage nearly all my files - and I am waiting on the recovered data being returned to me. The upshot is that this has cost me nearly £900. I know, I know - why didnt I take back-ups of everything to guard against this happening? You tell me.................... The last couple of months have been the most upsetting of my life for quite a while to be honest. Why oh why didnt I back up??? The stable door is open and the horse had long since bolted.....................................
Bear with me folks.......................normal service will be resumed...................the kits will be available..........I just wish I had more time to myself to deal with them......
Carl
-
Great news Carl :-))
Sorry about your PC, I think that has happened to everyone one time or another.
I know the kits will be well worth the wait. Good luck with your progress and I'm looking forward to the day that I can place my order for FEV.
Thanks Antony
-
Hello Carl,
I am glad to hear you are alive and kicking despite all the strain this year has put on you.
So sad to hear about your hard disk failure and loss of data, most of which luckily could be recovered eventually, albeit at a hefty price.
Never, ever trust any hard disk drive (or other physical storage). Even if they are brand new they could fail at any time from one second to another.
And it's by far not only physical failure that you have to guard against.
It is much more likely to lose data because of users or admins making mistakes, like erroneously deleting the wrong files, directory trees, filesystems, or wiping whole disks.
Even the most sophisticated RAID arrays wouldn't protect you from these human "failures".
So, do take backups regularly and often to distinct media.
It isn't even necessary to run full blown backup strategies.
I often only do a casual rsync (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rsync), which is done with one snap command.
A long time ago I read in the preface of a book about backup and recovery (http://shop.oreilly.com/product/9780596102463.do) the author's reassuring comparison of people who experienced data loss to motor cyclists, where of the latter there were two sorts,
those who already fell and those who will fall.
Regards,
Ralph
-
Hi Carl
hang on in there . If you need any thing drop me an email
john
-
Hi Carl
Nice to know that only the hard drive failed but you yourself haven't O0
Keep well and work at your own pace.
Dave
-
Bit of an update for those who might still be interested.................
Plug is now finished and ready to be taken to the fabricators to have the hull mould made and two prototype hulls produced.
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/lmwork2_zpsefa45e20.jpg)
It has been a long slog, with work and health issues getting in the way..........but I feel that this moment is worth celebrating so a bottle of red will be opened with tonights dinner........and sod the doc's!!!!!!!!!!!
Just ordered new blades for the bandsaw too in readiness for cutting out the frames for the Norland and Spirit of Free Enterprise.
More anon!!!!!
Carl
-
Looking great Carl,I know some days can seam like shame sh-t differant day but looking at what you have done before I,ll know you,ll am sure if any one will can there you will.
Regards Howard.
-
Hi Carl
your were caught on camera in the work shop. LOL . Looking good . good news to hear on the next to models .
john
-
Hi Carl,
Hope you enjoyed your bottle of Red, you've earned it.
So nice to see an update.
Thanks very much for all the effort. Look forward to your next post.
Thanks Antony
-
Well, after years of blood, sweat and toil, the plug for the Free Enterprise V is finally finished and ready to be taken to the fabricators.
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/221114-1_zps1165228a.jpg)
It is they who will now take responsibility for prepping her for moulding then two prototype hulls will be taken.
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/221114-2_zps36f73749.jpg)
It has taken a while, but having a half decent space to work in has helped tremendously!!!!
Tomorrow will now be spent building a new, bigger, workbench to take the next project - MV Norland which, at nigh on 1.6m long and 26cm in the beam, cannot fit on the existing bench!!!!
Boy, am I glad to have reached THIS stage...........
-
looking fantastic.
-
Fantastic! What en effort, keep up the good work!
Hama
-
Beautiful Carl :-))
Things are moving again. Well done for getting this far. Up and over the hill we go :}
Thanks Antony
-
News on the Free Enterprise V front.....
We have an appointment at Ace Fibreglass Mouldings on the 18th December to hand over the plug for moulding!!!!!
Fingers crossed to receive two prototype hulls early in the new year.......
-
Good luck Carl
will be intresting to see how they do the bow .
john
-
I am hoping they will mould the whole bow visor as I have modelled it.
If not, then the kit will have to contain the flat sloping part to finish it off.
Will find out on the 18th!!! :-)) O0
-
I was thinking more of that bit of deck that the link span drops on to . It is about 5 mm thick . How are they going to get gel coat then fiberglass in to it as a mold is inverse of the plug so the deck will be a slot. I wait and see
john
-
News on the Free Enterprise V front.....
We have an appointment at Ace Fibreglass Mouldings on the 18th December to hand over the plug for moulding!!!!!
Fingers crossed to receive two prototype hulls early in the new year.......
Good luck Carl, I hope all goes well. Look forward to seeing the prototypes in 2015 :-))
Thanks Antony
-
Nice looking. Very good job.
I cant wait to see her in the water.
-
Good news for all you patient Ferry Fans who have been diligently following this thread for so long.............
Today I have taken the plug to the fabricator to have the mould made and a couple of prototype hulls pulled from it :-)) :-)) :-))
The man from Del-fibreglassing.....he say 'YES!!!' :} He is happy with the plug and feels that it would be no problem to create a strong mould.
Hulls expected back at Linkspan HQ toward the end of January O0 O0 O0 O0
-
Look what I found this weekend
(http://i385.photobucket.com/albums/oo295/broomsrck/Generaloffcanon231_zpse7facf07.jpg) (http://s385.photobucket.com/user/broomsrck/media/Generaloffcanon231_zpse7facf07.jpg.html)
(http://i385.photobucket.com/albums/oo295/broomsrck/Generaloffcanon232_zps627eb38f.jpg) (http://s385.photobucket.com/user/broomsrck/media/Generaloffcanon232_zps627eb38f.jpg.html)
Bought when I used to go on hols with my Parents abroad in the 70's
Dave
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Excellent find there Dave!!! :-))
I have a similar one but with "Townsend Car Ferries - Free Enterprise" written on it. I think they came from the time before Townsend and Thoresen merged. I have quite a few 'souvenirs' from my childhood crossings on these boats - I will take some photos and post them up a little later.
Whilst we were taking our Christmas break with the outlaws in France, I havent been idle. Spent quite a bit of time draughting up the artwork for the etched brass fittings for the kit. Each kit will contain 3 sheets of brasswork for such items as stanchions, handrails, companionways, ladders, ventilation grilles, window frames and a host of other small parts.
These are the pdf images of the artwork as sent to the specialists. There will be one sheet of 0.2mm thick and two sheets of 0.1mm thick - each approximately 300mm x 150mm.
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEVEtchedBrass01SHEETA_zpsf68ba91b.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEVEtchedBrass01SHEETB_zps40cc099e.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEVEtchedBrass02SHEETA_zpse4a1f6c0.jpg)
-
Looking good Carl :-))
Will there be an option pack for the motors, esc, etc or will it be static and left up to the modeller?
Thanks Antony
-
hi Carl
looking good . On your hand rail sactions are you going to get them etched with holes in them for the brass wire? It is hard to tell from the photo if they have holes or not?
john
-
Looking good Carl :-))
Will there be an option pack for the motors, esc, etc or will it be static and left up to the modeller?
Thanks Antony
Thanks Anthony :-))
Options for motors and ESC's will be given, but to keep costs and overheads down (and ultimately the kit price) it will be up to the modeller to purchase these independently. At this stage of the game, we cannot get the motors etc any cheaper than Joe Public so there is no advantage in providing them in the kit. We will make recommendations as to what will work.
What we WILL include, however, are the shafts and props (in brass).
-
hi Carl
looking good . On your hand rail sactions are you going to get them etched with holes in them for the brass wire? It is hard to tell from the photo if they have holes or not?
john
Hi John,
Yes, the uprights will have holes etched in them for the wire.
I did toy with the idea of having all the railings etched as single piece units (uprights, handrails and intermediate rails), but due to the design of them this wasnt going to work on a flat brass sheet so the uprights and capping handrail are etched seperately and the wire for the intermediate rails will be included in the kit.
The plans will show where each of the uprights is to be fitted - a pair of scale dividers will come in handy here to transfer the data - and have references shown for the upright type and the handrail.
-
Thanks Anthony :-))
Options for motors and ESC's will be given, but to keep costs and overheads down (and ultimately the kit price) it will be up to the modeller to purchase these independently. At this stage of the game, we cannot get the motors etc any cheaper than Joe Public so there is no advantage in providing them in the kit. We will make recommendations as to what will work.
What we WILL include, however, are the shafts and props (in brass).
That's all I needed to know being a novice ship builder. Can't wait to get started. Thanks for advice and info Carl.
Antony
-
Hi Carl
just checked the saction on Celestine. They are about 0.4mm . These are fiddley enough to make .
john
-
Have posted these images in answer on another topic here on Mayhem, but just for 'completeness' I will drop them here in the correct place.
These are the test 3D printed parts in Frosted Ultra Detail from Shapeways. The searchlight especially needs a little work on it to make it less fragile!!! The 'walls' of the lamp itself are only 0.2mm thick.
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/3D-2_zps41d1d1b3.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/3D-3_zps9be071a9.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/3D-7_zps993fa606.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/3D-4_zps364fd0fb.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/3D-5_zpscc451e6d.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/3D-6_zps973ebd51.jpg)
-
amazing stuff carl.........those chain cable stoppers are superb. :-))
-
Hi Carl,
Beaten you to it ok2 (Forum is on a new server and some previous posts have been lost)
Great news about the two prototype hulls, can't wait to see them in a couple of weeks. Keep the updates coming.
Thanks Antony
-
Cheers Anthony :-))
Yes, really looking forward to the arrival of the prototype hulls. Not looking forward to cutting all the windows out though, but hey ho.....that's model boating for you!!!! I cannot expect others to do it if I dont do it myself can I?
With a bit of luck all the etch brasswork will be here soon too. A tad expensive to set up the tooling, but the ongoing costs are sustainable and reasonable so wont push up the cost of the kit.
I really feel that we are getting there with this one now. So much so that I am giving serious consideration to taking a small stand at Warwick this year.
-
The photo etched brasswork has turned up! :-))
Some of it may be a little too delicate for an r/c boat but lets see.......
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV020215-1_zps18ceaf3a.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV020215-3_zps745a34f9.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV020215-4_zps455b223f.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV020215-5_zpsd90f4d7c.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV020215-6_zps9105b15d.jpg)
Just need those hulls now............... 8)
-
Carl,
I take my hat off to you its looking great friend.
Regards Howard.
-
Hi Carl,
I'll have to get my glasses on for these parts :o Great update, this is going to one quality kit :-))
Thanks for the update,
Antony
-
Been designing and printing some more 3D fittings for the Free Enterprise V - via Shapeways.
These will all be masters for casting. The cost of producing 3D fittings via an external studio is still quite high to be able to offer the fittings directly in the kit, but the service is ideal for producing accurate masters. I know there are some here who would bemoan the loss of traditional modelling skills, but I, personally, dont have the eyesight to be able to produce accurate enough masters at such a small scale that I would be happy with - believe me, I have tried - through traditional modelling methods. However, I am skilled in using graphics packages on a computer which allows me to produce virtual 3D models with incredible accuracy and detail (down to 0.2mm) which can then be printed and the resultant components used as masters for more traditional resin casting. I do admire those who can build from scratch such small parts......but I have to work within my limitations.
Anyway, here are the latest batch:
Curved staircase between decks at the stern of the ship - will be quite visible on the model:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20110315-3_zpszopoclxx.jpg)
Bollards:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20110315-2_zpskeohktk3.jpg)
3 lifeboat davits:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20110315-1_zpsj816c0ri.jpg)
External deck seating which double up as lifejacket lockers:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20110315-5_zpszlcbla72.jpg)
Liferaft canisters:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20110315-4_zpsdqtmhsxj.jpg)
:-))
-
Very nice Carl :-))
Keep the updates coming please.
Thanks Antony
-
You are producing a detailed kit of fittings Carl
I don't think that many kit buyers look at the fittings
supplied and think about how the masters were produced.
Most modellers are more concerned with the quality of the
moulded fittings.
Ned
-
Quick update.........
Had a phone call from the fibreglass fabricator today - result is that I shall be collecting the first hull on Friday afternoon!!
Watch this space.......................... ;)
-
I hope it,s all you want it to be Carl after all your hard work.
Regards Howard.
-
******* RED LETTER DAY AT LINKSPAN MODELS *******
Today was the day we collected our first hulls for Linkspan Models. :-)) :-)) :-))
These are the two prototypes of the kit which will build into the Free Enterprise V.
I have to say, our fabricators have done a cracking job. The mould was a 3 piece split mould and extremely well braced with ply. I have been told that it will be good for 100 hulls. This is Ian, the Boss of the fabricating company, who produced the mould and the two hulls for us. Whilst his workforce is generally put to work on the 'run of the mill' stuff for the company, Ian likes to do the fabricating for the models he is asked to do - he is very fastigeous and knowledgable, having produced hulls for some of the UK's leading kit manufacturers:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20270315-1_zps9e08pnte.jpg)
And here are our two prototype hulls safely tucked up in the Linkspan Models workshop:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20270315-2_zpsqnvejrsm.jpg)
We are really pleased with the finish on these hulls. The rubbing strake along the sides is crisp and square, all the 'guides' as to where windows etc. need to be cut out are clear and concise, the fibreglass lay-up is light and fine and the mould lines are very minimal:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20270315-3_zpsoba8ckcc.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20270315-4_zpsebgyxzld.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20270315-5_zpszgsxbl9u.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20270315-6_zpsdfaynfqy.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20270315-7_zps64fganqi.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20270315-8_zpsvaqnxpez.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20270315-9_zpsq5drqthd.jpg)
Now to cut out all those blessed windows!!! %% %% %% O0
-
Looks like you got what you wanted Carl Bet your a very pleased man tonight, Reward and rightly so for all the hours and hard work.
Regards Howard.
-
Many thanks Howard :-)) Yes, I am quite pleased to be honest with how they have come out after all this time. There are many things I have learnt, and many things I will do differently with the other boats, but for a first attempt I dont think it will be too shabby.
-
The great Anchor Chain Stoppers, are they available for anybody to buy from Shapeways?
If so, what is the name or part #, to look up?
Thank You.
Tug Hercules
Fireman Rick
-
Hi Carl,
Fantastic :-)) You must be delighted with the result of all your hard work. They look superb. I love the unique lines of FEV, can't wait to see further progress.
Thanks Antony
-
The great Anchor Chain Stoppers, are they available for anybody to buy from Shapeways?
If so, what is the name or part #, to look up?
Thank You.
Tug Hercules
Fireman Rick
Rick - I need to make a couple of adjustments on them first, but yes they will be available soon. I will post up a link and notice a little later this weekend. At the moment they are at 1:96. Will you be looking for a different scale?
-
Hi Carl,
Fantastic :-)) You must be delighted with the result of all your hard work. They look superb. I love the unique lines of FEV, can't wait to see further progress.
Thanks Antony
Not long now Anthony.........sorry it has taken so long to get to this stage <:(
-
The hull look great Carl . Just out of interest how will it work with the windows were they are rasied on the hull
john
-
Thanks John :-))
Re the windows - yes, there was a 'rain drip' along the top of all the hull windows and this extended down both sides as well. However, due to the 'tumblehome' of the hull the 'rain drip' petered out toward the bottom edge of the window. I will (hopefully) demonstrate how this can be done on the model tomorrow.
This is how it looked on the original ship:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20window%20surrounds_zpsywuzfkbw.jpg)
-
never noticed that on the real ferry
john
-
Not long now Antony.........sorry it has taken so long to get to this stage <:(
Carl, you've got nothing at all to be sorry about. Without your ingenuity & determination I wouldn't be looking forward to building this wonderful model. Can't wait for the next instalment. Cutting those windows out looks a little tricky though, especially with the graduated rain guard :o
Thanks Antony
-
never noticed that on the real ferry
john
Ha ha {-) ...... I have spent so long poring over dozens and dozens of photographs of this ship and her sisters that there are not many details I havn't noticed. It is just a balance has to how far to go with the detailing with the model. To me, these window surrounds were quite distinctive so I am hoping that they can be reproduced on the model convincingly.
-
Thanks Anthony :-))
We took one of the hulls over to my father's workshop where the test superstructure currently resides to see how well the already assembled parts fit into the hull. It was just a quick 'offer up' as there are no supporting deck stringers fitted into the hull yet, but initial impressions look good :-)) . There may be a need for the modeller to have to fettle the edge of the decks to fit snugly within the hull, but then this is normal where we have a 'hand made' fibreglass hull and a precision machine cut component like a deck. The fibreglass thickness is bound to vary to a small degree so it is better that the decks are a fraction bigger than needed and can be cut back to fit well.
I love it when a plan comes together........................ O0
-
Made a start on cutting out the openings in the first hull today..........65 openings per side!!!! %%
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20290315-1_zpsfsmmjzuv.jpg)
Unfortunately, to allow the mould to release from the plug without getting 'caught', all the opening blanks on the plug needed a small fillet of filler added to the edges to smooth them out. My fault - they were too thick (1mm). If I had made the blanks thinner, this wouldnt have been a problem. The upshot of this is that each window opening (only the windows as they have the rain drip surround) will need fettling back with a flat needle file to square them off:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20290315-2_zps4l8jsr3i.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20290315-4_zpsy5ufleu2.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20290315-5_zps3kj4ks4m.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20290315-6_zpsvdpxdakr.jpg)
Once this is done, it is then just a question of carefully opening up the centres of all the openings - firstly with the small drill, then a small grinder on the Dremel and then careful filing with the needle files:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20290315-7_zpsmp6juzoc.jpg)
As can be seen, sometimes the gel coat splinters off no matter how careful you are!!! Rather annoying, but not the end of the world. A little Milliput when I have done them all will soon fix it. Milliput will be a bit stronger than just using filler in this instance.
Once the windows have been opened up - remembering to leave a thin 'frame' around them as this becomes the 'rain drip surround' - this frame needs to be chamfered back to form a drip around 3 sides of each window, top and 2 sides:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20290315-9_zpsw5vzrab4.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20window%20surrounds_zpsywuzfkbw.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20290315-10_zpsf1ny1uvs.jpg)
8 windows done.....122 to go......... :o {-)
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Been hard at it in the workshop today and these past few evenings......all the windows and openings on the port side of the hull have now been opened up and fettled to shape :-))
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20030415-1_zpsbuwbcuys.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20030415-2_zpsgpv1kvrh.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20030415-3_zpsl83vpjhj.jpg)
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Its hard work Carl but you can see the fruits of your labour A great model starts with a good prep work you can see yours every time you post a photo well done this will be a head turner when finished. :-))
Regards Howard
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Thanks Howard :-))
It is slow going mind......I do about 6 or so at a time as it starts to do my eyes in (really must get to Specsavers...). I am a fussy "xxxxx" and am trying to get them as accurate and as even as possible.
One issue I am mulling over at the moment is the thickness of the fibreglass around the window openings. The general hull thickness isnt too much, but where the windows are, the reveals are quite deep. I am toying with the idea of grinding down the thickness on the inside of the hull around each opening - that way, when the glazing is fitted from behind, the perceived hull thickness would be more to scale.
Still in two minds about this though.............
Three shiny 385 motors arrived today :-)) And three 10" M2 propshafts are on order O0
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20030415-4_zps95tqejxx.jpg)
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Hi Carl
looking real good . M2 is that a bit small . Would M3 be better ?
john
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I have only just read this page and viewed others on a 'ad hoc' basis, just a thought, and don't take it the wrong way, a piece of constructive critism here {-), it seems a lot of work for the windows with drilling out and filing and having to repair the rain drip when the gel coat splits off.
Would it not be easier to have the window cut out, to be recessed and extend to the outside of the rain guard, then it will allow the mould to be released easier - no infill to file away, when the client drills out the windows, he files up to the recess which becomes the guide - it also does not split for the excellent hull (it also allows for a key to the next part), as a gesture, the kit is supplied with a jig, that allows abs (plastic card) pieces to be cut and slotted into the jig (moulded versions of the types of window - a hole the depth of the full window and an internal box that supports the pieces), it is suitably chamfered to suit the rain guard shape and it allows the client to file the abs down to the correct angle so that when it goes into the hole in the hull it is flush on the rear and protrudes the outside as intended.
Any external filling in and filing is kept to a minimum, the glue solidifies the abs to the hull. just thought - now discuss debate O0
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Looking really good, great work and watching with interest.
Time spent on those windows is well worth the effort :-)) :-))
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Really coming along now. I think I would have been tempted to file the complete frame away and maybe either cast a master in resin and epoxy to the hull or make up the frames in 'T' shape styrene into which the clear glass could be dropped into one side of the T. See the illustration. It would make things easire for you.
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Really coming along now. I think I would have been tempted to file the complete frame away and maybe either cast a master in resin and epoxy to the hull or make up the frames in 'T' shape styrene into which the clear glass could be dropped into one side of the T. See the illustration. It would make things easire for you.
Further to this, making a lip that allows the frame to butt up to the inside of the hull, radiojoes hms coventry post #225 showing the casting he made, a series of these for making the window frames might be an options available to clients, they then file out the whole frame and insert from the inside a cast version of Brian56's idea with a lip on the outside as suggested above.
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Thanks for the suggestions guys :-))
I really am not happy with the way the windows have come out on the first hull.....so I am going to give your ideas a try. Will post up results. Luckily, that this the whole idea of these prototypes - to see if there isnt a better way of doing things!!!
As for the fibreglass hulls, unfortunately, the mould is now done and at the cost it was :o it will have to stay that way. The winow locations will have to remain as 'projecting' as opposed to 'recessed' - but I think with your idea of the resin surrounds, this wont be too much of a problem.
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hope this helps, the outside edge is the stop from the window pushing through the hole, the inside lip is for the window frame and stops the glazing pashing through the frame, you just change the size and shape to suit the holes, this even shows the rain guard. you could also include any detail like vents and window latches that appear on the photo's.
As for the master plug, resin some squares into the recess so that they end up .05 - 1mm protrusions, so instead of being proud on the moulded hull, they are recessed, any new mould - you rectify the change.
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Thanks for that Warspite :-)) I have done something along similar lines in 3D Sketchup and just uploaded them to Shapeways for printing. My eyesight really isnt up to creating these from scratch at 1:96 - even though they are relatively simple shapes!
As for the mould - a good idea! Will have a chat with the fabricator next time I am down there.
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Not sure warspite....but when viewed in oz....the image has the window frame in the vertical plane and the glass leaning backwards......
The bottom horizontal window frame ledge also appears not to have a vanishing point ....or is it just distortion over the 22,000 km? ;D...... Derek
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Hi Derek - Warspite's drawing is there or thereabouts.......
The real ship had these distinctive 'shrouds' around the windows, but only on the top and two sides. It is this feature that I am trying to create.
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20window%20surrounds_zpsurwynh8u.jpg)
What I have done is similar to Warspite's drawing, but allowing for the limitations of the 3D printing process. The wall thickness's of the plastic are 0.5mm. The frames will sit vertically in the hull but, because the thickness of the hull varies with the f/g cloth, there cannot be a 'backstop' on the frames - they will have to be set into pre-fettled holes in the hull to the depth needed to for the bottom of the angled side to be in line with the hull outer face:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/G5%20FRAME%201_zps7etetqce.jpg)
From inside the hull, each window frame will have a recess for the glazed element to be fitted. These glazed parts will be laser-cut to size in the kit at the same time as all the superstructures and deck components:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/G5%20FRAME%202_zpsikc14el7.jpg)
Thanks for taking the time to make these suggestions guys :-)) It really is appreciated and hopefully a more friendly kit will evolve!!!
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apologies Guys........in OZ we have a saying....'you are just like the cocky on the biscuit tin'' :embarrassed:......
The literal translation is something like .................''shut up because you don't know what you are talking about"
Looks like this morning I fit the bill O0.................. Derek
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Hi, :D, my version is just a quick sketch up, where the external lip sits against the hull, though shown part way along the outside of the frame could be flush with the inside back edge - with the intension to prevent it from pushing through the hull - it gives a ledge for adhesive to be applied against and when a overly filed down hole has gaps the adhesive is then squeezed into the hole to the front of the hull leaving only this protruding adhesive to be clean away, when the window frame is pushed back to be positioned correctly against the outside of the hull, when dry, the backside can be sanded down or cut off etc to give a smooth finish for the fitting of the decks.
the inside frame is for glazing, positioned where it should be and its width from the frame enough to give the idea of a frame but not to much, to hold the glazing.
Derek - a picture explains better than a thousand words - the descriptions could be misleading - even I do get it wrong most of the time {-) O0, all these window suggestions are to help make the success of this model - as found - cutting out and filing down loads of window holes and trying to get them consistently the same would more than likely put some off, all but the die hard that is.
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Hmmmmmmmmmmm..... Seems I will be doing a spot of fittings casting soon :-))
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/resin_zps2bsqvx9f.jpg)
This should be fun!!! %%
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Vacuum chamber has arrived to assist with the resin fittings casting :-))
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Linkspan%20Models/casting%201_zpsuj3emoj4.jpg)
Just waiting for the vacuum pump from Germany now.........
Also installed in the Linkspan Models workshop is a small vac forming machine:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Linkspan%20Models/vac%20form%201_zpshiwrhe0u.jpg)
As there is only the funnel and lifeboats in this kit that will be vac-formed, this should fit the bill nicely without breaking the bank!
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As well as the resin cast fittings that will be supplied with the kit, the modeller would also be able to purchase separately (from the Shapeways site) a full 3D printout of the observation lounge seats and a full 3D printed model of the bridge interior. These will be offered as optional as they are quite expensive and, if included in the kit, would push the kit price up. Not all modellers would want to avail themselves of the 3D models and would be quite happy to detail these elements themselves, so should not be penalised on kit price unneccessarily.
The observation lounge on the real ship:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/LostFile_JPG_27347952_zpsaxlus1ym.jpg)
And the 3D printed model:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/obs%20lounge%20seats_zps8hdfjqcf.jpg)
The bridge of the real ship:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/LostFile_JPG_27363824_zpsqv3fjgqn.jpg)
And the 3D printed model:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/bridge%201_zpsio3urjm0.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/bridge%202_zpscdwgwulq.jpg)
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Carl that is a real cool touch . I real like the idea of upgrade options . Can not wait till you start the ferry i want
john
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Not too long now John......working on the drawings in between times at the moment :-))
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I really wonder sometimes if I am not being a tad too fussy about the 'bits' for this boat {:-{
This is the rudder skeg. It has taken me all evening - some 4 hours so far - to get this far!! Made a few mistakes....the first was forming it out of a lamination of 6mm ply instead of solid wood. The damn ply laminations were weaker than my glued joints and both the corners sheared off. Then the 'tongue' on the skeg disintegrated when I bored the rudder shaft hole through it (ply laminations again) so had to replace THAT with a solid. Then I find that the whole unit isnt quite deep enough, so now laminated a 0.5mm piece of styrene to the bottom. Have to let that dry overnight..................
This is supposed to be the master that will be moulded in resin:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/140415-1_zps8xlgi2rv.jpg)
which is supposed to be mounted here:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/140415-2_zpsscjdu8rn.jpg)
it will need fairing in with some filler, and I think I will suggest in the kit instructions that it is very lightly tacked in position and secured with a self-tapping screw from inside the hull - just in case the rudder needs to be removed.
Ho hum.........nowt I can do with it tonight, so it is back to filing the window openings to shape and size.
Did I tell you I had a few of them to do???? %%
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That very kind gentleman, Mr Milbourn, has very graciously designed the electrical power installation for the Free Enterprise (thank you kind Sir!), with a set-up that will allow mixing of the rudder and the outer motors. The option of a bow thruster is also included.
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/Free%20Enterprise%20V%20-%20Linkspan_zpsf3gcs95m.jpg)
We have still to get our heads around the workings of a bow rudder though.............maybe a switch or relay type of 'thing' between the P94 and the rudder servos (bow and stern) so that command can be switched between either the bow rudder or the stern rudder, by a simple toggle switch on the transmitter? Not my expertise I am afraid, so will need more thinking about....
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Hi Carl,
Knowing you you,ll not settle untill its right and second best will not be good enough I know you,ll get it perfect in the end these things are sent to test us. If its not to big have you thought of making a cast of what you,ve got then fettle that till your happy and and its perfect in your eyes you could then cast a few at the time to work on till your happy with your master. just keep it coming as an enjoying the model being born.
Regards Howard.
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Spent much of today adding another workbench in the workshop, and when all this had been done managed to create the mould boxes for the skeg and rudder ready for the first pour of the rubber solution in the morning:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/180415-1_zpstptdlg90.jpg)
More tomorrow........ O0
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Hi Carl.......I am getting a little confused......with the schematic by DM and your comments ....
"maybe a switch or relay type of 'thing' between the P94 and the rudder servos (bow and stern) so that command can be switched between either the bow rudder or the stern rudder, by a simple toggle switch on the transmitter?"
1. I see the toggle switch in the + cable from the 7.2 Vdc battery pack to the P79.........am not sure why this S/W is there?
2. From your images I cannot see a bow rudder....but can see the hull marking for the thruster...........
3. However would have thought that the bow thruster and stern rudder would be totally independent?
Am I missing something?
Keep the build images coming along..... :-)) ..... Derek
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Hi Derek
The toggle switch in the circuit for the bow thruster is just to isolate the 7.2Nimh battery pack.
As for the bow rudder, unfortunately the outline of it hasnt come out very well on the hull - but its shape, size and position will be on the drawings should anyone want to make it operable. The real ship had one but it was only used when the ship was running stern first into the port.
Yes, the bow thruster and the stern rudder will be totally independent of each other.
The dilema we have with the bow rudder is one of a lack of channels on a standard 4 channel setup. Left stick up/down would be main power, left stick left/right would be bow thrusters, right stick left/right would be rear rudder. Using the right stick up/down as the bow rudder would not be intuitive. My thoughts on introducing some kind of switch between the P94 and the rudder servo(s) would then allow the right stick left/right to be used for either the stern rudder or the bow rudder - depending on which way the switch is thrown. Still need to speak with Mr Milbourn on this point........
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Thanks Carl.......
I understood the functionality of the 7.2V isolation switch [very bad phraseology :embarrassed: on my part], however was comparing the 12V power off/on [3 wire] switch which is connected to terminal SW on the P107 circuit board
So having little understanding of the black arts wondered why this isolation was not on the RED wire from the 12V battery >>:-(.....
I have read a number of articles on single propeller driven double ended ferries where FWD rudder was disconnected and securely pinned <*< ....or never to be used again.......
Derek
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OK!!! Been busy in the workshop these past few days trying my hand at this resin casting lark %%
Mixed success so far. The silicone rubber moulds seem to have worked out ok....bit of a "xxxxx" separating the two halves of the split moulds in the beginning, even though I used the recommended spray wax release agent supplied, but they came apart in the end. Cut the fill and air vent holes and then set to with the resin itself.
Boy oh boy do you have to work quick with this stuff!!! Whereas the silicone rubber took nigh on 24 hours to cure, the resin starts to go off in about 2 minutes!!! :o You really have to have everything ready at hand.
Well, to get the first hull underway with the fit-out of the motors, electrics and drive we needed a rudder and skeg. Additionally, there are a number of ventilation grilles on the hull which, on the model, are etched brass parts. These need a 'backing' letting into the hull for the brass parts to fit to - and on the hull there are 4 vents with especially shaped splash guards. These would have been too fragile made just from styrene so resin castings have been produced which have the splash guards and these then carry the vent grilles.
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/220415-5_zpscnoydrik.jpg)
The rudder casting came out fine in the end. It has the brass rudder shaft cast and embedded within the resin. This is how it will be supplied in the kit.
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/220415-4_zpsd6lhtago.jpg)
The skeg, on the other hand, hasnt cast as well as I had hoped. Not too bad, but a couple of air bubbles were caught in the corners. It will be fine for the prototype hull, but I would like better in the kit.
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/220415-6_zpsohb3wkio.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/220415-7_zpsceafa28e.jpg)
Overall, I am not too displeased with this evening's efforts. Need to sort out the venting issue on the skeg mould, but all else seems to be heading in the right direction :-))
Loads more parts to cast now....................... O0
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Looking good so far Carl. I do have a concern with the brass and resin. When set up resin can be 'slippery' given enough time and use, it could be that when applying torque via the servo to the shaft, it will turn in the resin part rather than applying the turn on the blade.
To combat this either a 90 degree bend in the end of the shaft embedded in the casting or a straight shaft with a 'pin' through the shaft would work.
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Hi Brian - Thanks for the compliments :-))
Re your point on the brass rudder shaft - yes, I had heard this before. The resin rudder does have the shaft bent at (almost) 90 degrees toward the rear to provide the turning force. I say 'almost' as the first couple I tried to bend to full 90 broke off at the last moment!!!
Hopefully, this should overcome the problem...........
EDIT - Thanks for the tip of the pin through the shaft....I will give this a go on the second prototype.......
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Or supply a propriety brass rudder (or construct your own version), this a brass plate soldered to the shaft, about 1/3rd the size and shape with holes drilled through, it acts in two ways, 1st the strength of the rudder is bolstered by the metal core, 2nd the holes allow the resin to pass through to each side to give grip.
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Thanks Carl.......
I understood the functionality of the 7.2V isolation switch [very bad phraseology :embarrassed: on my part], however was comparing the 12V power off/on [3 wire] switch which is connected to terminal SW on the P107 circuit board
So having little understanding of the black arts wondered why this isolation was not on the RED wire from the 12V battery >>:-(
Derek
Derek
The switch on the P107 does not operate the main battery circuit directly. Rather it switches a small MOSFET on the circuit board. This takes a very low current and so can be used with a small switch. The MOSFET is the device which actually switches the main battery to the board. The whole point is that you don't now need to fit a great big ugly main power switch to the model or, more to the point, find somewhere to hide it. Mr Lewis of Component Shop is a cunning chap, too!
The drawing was done to Carl's later specification, which omits the stern thruster and bow rudder for the time being. It should not be too difficult to use a DPCO relay to switch the rudder signal from the stern servo to the bow; a modified P43 will do the job, operated from a 2-way channel and switching the signal and positive lines (white and red) from one servo to the other. The only drawback I can see is that both rudders must be centred while switching over. If we were to use a PIC device then this could be programmed to centre the functioning servo first, but we ain't gonna use that sledgehammer to crack that nut. I would hesitate before disconnecting the P94 from the steering command.
I'll speak to Carl as and when he wants to add that facility.
Dave M
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Quick update.........
Finished off the openings in the hull with the four vehicle deck extract grilles. In the kit, these will be supplied as resin cast fittings for letting into the hull because of their special shape with the splash deflectors. This would be very difficult to produce in sufficient strength for day to day sailing if just made from styrene. To these can be added the etched brass grilles:
This shows the location of the vents on the real ship:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/vent%20grilles_zps7s5nnwhv.jpg)
And this is the sequence of creating them on the model:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/260415-4_zpscfy7xso6.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/260415-5_zpsvq8audba.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/260415-6_zpsvv60hgau.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/260415-7_zpssep2etme.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/260415-8_zpsbyriu68p.jpg)
There are numerous other vents similar to these dotted around the hull and superstructure and they will all be treated the same way:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/260415-9_zpsmyphipdl.jpg)
Finally the hull, motors, some of the fittings, shafts, props, electronic gubbins and numerous other parts were taken over to dad's workshop for him to set to and build the first prototype. This first will be in the later colours of P&O when she was named Pride of Hythe and will use the previously built superstructure parts that were produced to test the theories asnd design of the laser cutting.
This shot shows the newly arrived hull with one of the superstructure 'modules' placed roughly in position:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/260415-3_zpsitfs3vtv.jpg)
Bearing in mind that these were built without the benefit of a hull to check fit and alignment, I can report that they fit the hull surprisingly well :-))
Back to the workshop now as I have something like 55 fittings to mould and cast %%
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Wow :-)) She's really coming along now.
Superb job Carl, thanks for the updates ;)
Cheers Antony
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Thanks for the up date Carl she,s realy looking good, Its going to look great on the water.
Reards Howard.
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Paid a visit to the shipyard today to sign off progress on the machinery and propulsion installation before it became too late to make any amendments..........glad to report that all is well and the choices of the MFA385 motors with bases and the M2x10"long shafts seem to be the correct choice. Obviously a full sailing test will prove the theory or otherwise!!! But so far, so good:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/040515-1_zps8arr4uun.jpg)
With the motors mounted on the floor of the hull, and the holes for the shafts cut in the marked locations, the shafts sit nicely horizontal. An A frame is yet to be made for the ends of the outer shafts, but this is not structural:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/040515-2_zpsp1tpkh8n.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/040515-5_zpsesed16sc.jpg)
I have been wracking my brain for quite a while to come up with a simple method of producing the proptube to hull fairings, but I think dad has hit upon the idea which will work and is so simple. The idea is to take a length of 6.5mm plastic tube (which will slip over the proptube) and then shave an element off it until it forms a shape akin to a quill. This is then slotted over the proptube and pressed up against the hull until it sits fair. Following gluing in place, filler can be added around it to form a streamline shape, but it wont need much!! All details on how to do this will be included in the instructions:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/040515-3_zpspcfupvtl.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/040515-8_zpszuggez8i.jpg)
A test fit of the rudder and skeg was made also....
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/040515-6_zpsu7cuvwjn.jpg)
I think we can say that it was successful :-))
By the time I visit next week, we expect all these elements to have been completed and fitted and a start would have been made on the deck and superstructure fitting.
Onwards!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ;)
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It,s getting better every time look Carl, keep up with the good work.
Regards. Howard.
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Cheers Howard :-)) I admit, it is exciting to see something become 'solid' that, for many years, only existed in my head!!!
How are you keeping bud? Feel up to working on the SD yet?
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looks real good
john
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Absolutely fantastic seeing the development of something of this quality and the though processes that go along with it.
Please keep sharing.
Alex
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No Not yet Carl just finding the mid-section tank top longitudinals a bit of a painas so many small slots on a very thin strip but still enjoying it if that the right word(lol).shoulders been a bit of a pain for the last few weeks, Once I get them done the the tank tops on I,ll get the yard to send some photos.
Regards Howard.
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Carl......don't let those scale dockyard machinery fitters con you :embarrassed:....when they say...."an A frame is yet to be made for the ends of the outer shafts, but this is not structural": >>:-(
Don't let them pull your leg .....all A frames or P frames are load bearing to stop the shaft wallowing around in the water :-))....
The logic %) behind this is
1. if they were not structural, they would be considered cosmetic
2. a cosmetic element under water so looses all importance as only the fish would see it
3. why add to the vessel cost just to keep the fish happy?..............
I'd be tempted to ask to see the scale naval architect's qualifications :o. or design calculations for these A frames...........Derek
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Ha ha!!!! {-) I hear yer Derek......
On the real ship - yes, the frames are most definietly structural, but on this model they have no need to be. On the real ship the shaft would pass through bearings in the frame to prevent, as you say, whipping. But on this model, with only M2 shafts, it has been decided to continue the prop tubes right to the back of the prop. This will give a scale look of the shaft (a 2mm shaft scaled up by 96 (model scale) is roughly half the size of a real shaft) when it is in fact the tube. And because it is the tube that is projecting, fixed at the point where it exits the hull and also fixed in the hull near the motor, there is little chance of the shaft whipping. Hence my use of the term 'non-structural'.
We did a similar arrangement on an model of HMS Victorious with M2 shafts. The A frames were just made from plastic tube with a couple of legs attached and the legs epoxied to the hull. It hasnt come apart in 10 years yet.
Luckily, this is the prototype so, if it fails, we can change our plans :-))
Many thanks for taking an interest though Derek - I really do appreciate the feedback, comments and discussion as, this way, we should be able to produce a better kit O0
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Big Day tomorrow - first test sail of the Free Enterprise V %% at Knightcote Model Boat Club open day :-))
Fingers crossed for good weather.
This is just a test sail to see about weight, motor power, battery selection etc. No superstructures on her yet - or paint!!!!
If anyone is interested and visits the open day, please do come and say 'hello' O0
Carl
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Hi Carl
good luck . Wind can blows ferries around abit.
john
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Hello my friend!
Good to see your back at it, I understand some progress was made while you were away?
Looking forward to see some pictures from your tests.
Best regards to both of you!
Hama
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Hi Hakan!!! :-)
Yes - dad has done a fair bit whilst we were away, but he didn't want to go too far without consulting me about some details.
Fingers crossed for a successful day. Photos and short video will be posted when we get back.
Was great to meet up with you a couple of weeks ago - we still cannot get over the wonderful time we had in Stockholm - and I just cannot stop thinking about the design for the model of Dalaro!!!!!
Will write, soon, a more detailed mail - off to the pond now!!!
Friendly regards,
Carl (and Flo)
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She floats!!!!!!!!!!!! :-))
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/140615-1_zpsf2btlw05.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/140615-2_zpshmlfk4wn.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/140615-3_zpshwzr7dcv.jpg)
I was extremely nervous putting her on the water for the first time, but she stayed level and even though there was a bit of a breeze she didn't get blown about.
Observations - ideally, the outer motors should be linked to the rudder control for far better manoeuvring, although I think that the choice of 12v to power her is too much. Just 2 clicks on the throttle lever was enough to get her moving realistically, but it didn't leave much for fine control. Any more power added through the throttle meant that she just 'took off' - too unrefined. Will try 6v now. However, the centre prop falling off might have had something to do with a lack of directional control!!!! %)
She was ballasted down to expected finished waterline and took 3.5kg in addition to 2 x 12v batteries and 3 x motors. Obviously, we will need to subtract the superstructure and fittings weight.
Short video to follow - just as soon as I can figure a way of uploading it!!!!! O0
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Moving evidence!!!!
https://youtu.be/XmdZ6ZpPov8 (https://youtu.be/XmdZ6ZpPov8)
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very very nice Carl. well done. On Celestine sea trials i tried 3 different battery voltages and found 12v was to fast and 6v did not have power in reserve for string winds . A 7.4v lipo was a perfect compromise. . Can wait to see her with some paint on her hull .
john
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It's looking great so far Carl you must be feeling very good that all the hard work and long nights with little sleep is now paying off.
Regards Howard.
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Nice!!
Congratulations!
Hama
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:-)) :-)) :-))
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Very majestic. She sails well. :-))
ken
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Got to keep warm at the pond-side......and present a good image at the shows and exhibitions!!!!
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Linkspan%20Models/fleece1_zpsbptqbmp3.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Linkspan%20Models/fleece2_zpskihabwlg.jpg)
My good lady wife, and the other half of Linkspan Models, Florence modelling our new fleece!!!!
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A bit more development work in the workshop this last week......
Sorting out the support structure for the complicated superstructure at the bow of the ship. This curves in all directions.....
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/LostFile_JPG_27577072_zpswnt6ovdw.jpg)
Had all the parts (except the outer 'skin') laser cut in 1mm styrene:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/210615-1_zpsor46cbga.jpg)
which then builds into the basic skeleton:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/210615-2_zps9fmrlk05.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/210615-3_zps2iz6yf2q.jpg)
This was then checked against the second hull to ensure that it actually fitted!!!
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/210615-4_zps7mqkjuwv.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/210615-5_zpsoltg76zx.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/210615-6_zpseitcaaur.jpg)
Success!!! Although this was by no means guaranteed - the superstructure is CAD designed and machine cut, whereas the hull is handmade........
To give the skin a little more area to glue to, additional scrap styrene was glued to the upright parts:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/210615-7_zpsfa2zpacg.jpg)
Once all this was dry, a paper template was taken of the skin to be fitted, scanned into the cad program and then sent to the laser cutter. Just waiting for this to come back now and I can finish this little job :-))
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A little while back, I spend a rather 'enjoyable' few days cutting the window openings in the hull of the prototype. A discussion ensued on here as to the best way to represent the rain drip that ran around the windows. Well, on the first prototype, I filed the windows and the raindrip was depicted by leaving a very thin sliver of fibreglass/gelcoat around the window opening:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20290315-10_zpsf1ny1uvs.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20030415-3_zpsl83vpjhj.jpg)
It was reasonably successful, but very prone to errors and the gelcoat chipping. Folk here suggested creating a separate part for the window frame that could be inserted after cutting the window opening. Well, I took this on board and created the 3D models to have the frames printed:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/G5%20FRAME%201_zps7etetqce.jpg)
From these 3D originals, I took numerous resin castings, and can report that this method is a far more successful way of depicting these distinctive windows.
As the windows on the first prototype are done, I have started to cut out the openings on the second. Firstly, they are rough-drilled:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/040715-7_zpssq3w7lg0.jpg)
Then filed back until the resin part just fits. Keep trying the resin frame in the opening until it is a sliding fit:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/040715-8_zpswxf1b1xm.jpg)
These are the resin window frames:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/040715-9_zpsc05l090k.jpg)
And this is the result:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/040715-10_zpskesmggst.jpg)
For glazing, I have ordered a set of laser-cut acrylic windows which will fit exactly in the openings. More on that when I get them.
I think you will agree, it look far better with the resin frames..................
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paid a visit to the shipyard today to see the progress on the first prototype. Well, things are moving along nicely :-))
I will let the pictures do the talking.............
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/040715-1_zpskjfjqhoz.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/040715-2_zpssxp6dddt.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/040715-4_zpsos3amrda.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/040715-6_zpss2iczozm.jpg)
Not too shabby!!!!!!!! :-)
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Really nice!
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Stunning Carl, she is looking superb :-)) This is going to one h*ll of a kit. Well done on a brilliant job so far ok2
Thanks Antony
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The last two replys say it all Carl Its been a joy just watching your baby grow I think Martin may be looking to add you to the master class you get my vote.
Regards Howard.
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Excellent job :-)) Can't wait to see the final result!
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Yes Carl....I have enjoyed this thread from day 1 :-))
One question......I now see the propellers are inward/inboard rotation....this rotational question has been a topic of mention in the past months O0
I can only assume the real vessel driven this way?....... Derek
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She's looking really nice, Excellent stuff keep it up :-))
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Thanks for the encouragement chaps :-))
Yes Derek - the model props are running exactly as per the original.....except the falling off of course!!!!
Little update today - It's amazing what modern technology can do!!! Just had the interior seats for the observation lounge on the Free Enterprise V delivered....1:96 scale and 3D printed. We produced the original file in Sketchup, then uploaded that to Shapeways where their multi-thousand pound 3D printing machines managed to work their miracles!!!! No way could we produce this by hand..... The black & white photo is of the original lounge back in the 1970's:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/LostFile_JPG_27347952_zpsomwyjql8.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/160715-1_zpsbtojysa4.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/160715-2_zpsjky0qcov.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/160715-3_zpsuk0eq0ag.jpg)
Due to the cost (about £15 delivered from Shapeways) I wont be including these in the kit as standard - it just pushes the cost up unnecessarily. If the modeller wants it for their ship, then they will be available on the Shapways site under 'Linkspan Models' or, if they don't have access to the internet, they can ask for it when ordering and I will supply it. All the other 3D printed parts that will be included in the kit will also be available on the Shapeways site for sale, should the modeller lose or break anything.
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Really nice - the window option does appear to be a better way of doing it and glazed will be amazing, the internal seats show the limitation of the material they are printed in, quite how could I put it, powdery, some of the guns shapeways do, appear to have better definition and if the seats were in the same material would probably have the injection moulding quality finish, hidden inside the ship this is probably not an issue, on the deck though with passengers bums on seats, that is a totally different matter.
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You are quite right re the seats Warspite. If these were printed in 'FUD' (frosted ultra detail), they would be a lot smoother but the cost would go up. In the current material the unit costs £15.82, in FUD it would be £22.19. Not a massive difference. I have to print another for the second prototype, so will do that in FUD to see how it goes.
These seats are only used internally. The external benches, which contain the lifejackets, will be supplied as resin castings.
The material isn't actually powdery, what you see is the layers of the plastic build up, but the seats are so small and delicate that there is nowt can be done to smooth them off.
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Wowsers! I have just spent the evening reading the log of your project and am impressed with the degree of input and thoroughness you have put into this project. Re master making, I can recomend 'Modlab' or Chemiwood. This is a resin/wood dust compound that can be machined, drilled and cut like wood or other polymers. It can also be carved and sanded very very smooth. I use it for blocks, but I have cut slivers off that are about .75mm thick before now. It is worth considering for the parts like the rudder skeg that gave you much jip back a while.
This project must have been a real adventure for you Carl and wish you all the best for when Linkspan's first product is released.
Are you planning to release any kits of ferrys that could have been leased by the British army to ship equipment in times of conflict?
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Thanks for the encouraging remarks folks....it is much appreciated :-))
As for future plans of ferries - especially those connected with the military - our next project (of which the hull plug is under construction and drawings advanced) is the Norland, which was famously linked with the Falklands conflict. If there are others that are of interest, please do let me know O0 .
Been back to the shipyard today to see progress on the first prototype. Coming along nicely I would say. A few issues with the front 'wrap-around' superstructure that faces over the bow but now that I know what these are, I can modify the parts and make recommendations in the instructions as to how to go about building this - quite complex - structure.
Here are some shots from today's visit:
Overall view with some of the original 'test' parts just dropped on for effect:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20090815-1_zpsps6f9j2k.jpg)
The complex front superstructure that has given us some headaches to get right:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20090815-3_zpsg8ibb8qe.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20090815-2_zpsefvycna3.jpg)
And with the distinctive roof glued in place and held with tape:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20090815-8_zpsvfwayrqj.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20090815-9_zpshjldcjbt.jpg)
This roof part will be supplied slightly over-size to compensate for variances in the fibreglass hull. Once the glue has fully dried, the sides can be sanded back to the hull sides and the inner face can be curved to meet up with the inner face of the bulwarks.
This is the same area on the real ship:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/LostFile_JPG_27577072_zpswnt6ovdw.jpg)
The access ladder and hole in the roof will be cut through once everything has dried solid.
A general 'bow-on' shot:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20090815-10_zpsxes7o4vk.jpg)
And now a general view of the port side:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20090815-11_zpsrnrvwdyu.jpg)
Either this week or next a bit of colour will be added to the hull... :-))
Now to prepare the lifeboats and funnel for vac-forming...........
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Your dream is coming alive Carl your making a amazing job of it keep the photo's coming mate.
Regards Howard.
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Definitly. It takes a lot of enthusiasm and dedication to take your hobby and turn it into a business so I salute you Carl.
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Cheers chaps!!!! :-)) :-)) :-))
First public outing, where she can be seen sailing - along with examples of the laser-cut elements, fittings, etched brass and drawings - will be at the Deans Marine Open Weekend on the 12th & 13th September.
Do come along and say 'Hi'..... O0 O0
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Hello Carlmt.
I have been watching the progress of the Ferry you are constructing, the work you are and have been putting into the development of this model is exceptional, I have built a 1950s ferry at 1/48th scale and at the moment building up a dossier on a 1998 RoPax vessel both local ships, but the sight of your model has certainly whetted my appetite for your model when production commences, we had a Townsend ferry operating to and from the Isle of man for a short while so she will compliment my love for the Merchant fleet, keep the information on the website please.
Howard Q
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Looks a nice model.
Believe it or not my interest (one of many) in boats is partly due to being a passenger on the fated TT FE when it sank. Can laugh now but couldnt for many years (Very, Very long story)
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2 weeks to go until the Open Weekend at Deans Marine and progress on the FEV is rolling along!!!!
The first prototype will actually be in her later P&O livery when she was named Pride of Hythe - the second prototype, with all the 'bugs' ironed out, will actually be the Free Enterprise V in the Townsend Thoresen livery.
So far, all the main superstructures are now built, but we are leaving the roof loose on the bridge and observation lounge for the show so that folk can get an idea of the detailing that will be possible:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20300815-8_zpschrqghoa.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20300815-9_zpsu5qrkade.jpg)
A few passengers have now taken up residence in the observation lounge:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20300815-1_zpsgmahymuu.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20300815-3_zpslipsug7j.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20300815-4_zpszwjagtv5.jpg)
And the Officers and AB's are getting the ship ready to sail:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20300815-2_zpsrs4evkvk.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20300815-5_zpscfjsbw3n.jpg)
In addition, we have nearly completed the designs of all the 3D printed fittings for this model - the most complex being the forward combined mooring and anchor windlasses :
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20BOW%20WINDLASS%20STBD_zpsmghxizbw.jpg)
These will be complete models in themselves, only requiring detailing and painting. They are with Shapeways now for printing in FUD.
Just a few jobs to do now:- get the funnel and lifeboats vac formed, triple-check the drawings, get the packing boxes made and delivered and finally write the build instructions!!!!
See you at the Deans Marine show? :-))
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Is that a radial air motor driving the winch Carl? Interesting. The prototype looks excellent and I wish you a good weekend of sailing and talking to prospective customers.
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Ian....that large 5 piston radial motor shown will be a hydraulic piston type = hi torque @ low speed, pneumatic radial motors need high speed so tend to be vane construction, then geared down to provide the required torque .... Derek
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Thanks for that information.
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Wow Carl, great progress! Wish I could be at the open days for your first show, but I'll see the pictures here!
Your dream soon comes true, wish you all the best!
Hama
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Hi Carlmt
This has come such a long way, cant wait to see her on the water, will await price for the kit, any idea what time scale for production????
Mark
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Thank you all :-)) :-)) :-))
Well, as you may have seen in another thread, we were at the Deans Marine Open Weekend just gone and what a cracking time we had. As well as modellers from the UK, there were those that made the trip from Belgium and Germany too!!! And this isn't just a 'one off' - they are regular attendees....and the standard of their modelling is first class O0 O0 .
We had the Linkspan stand on display for the first time and the prototype was on the table, along with examples of the fittings, the etched brass, laser-cut sheets and the drawings. The plug for the Norland was there too along with some information about the other forthcoming releases (more info on them soon ;) ).
Despite the windy weather at times, we managed to sail the prototype a number of times over the weekend with no problems at all. The wind didn't seem to bother her stability although she was blown sideways a bit by some of the gusts. This first boat only has 2 channels - rudder and power - but for full manoeuvrability she really needs a mixer on the outer two props and a bow thruster. A working bow rudder would complete the set!!!
We met the famous Martin for the first time and I thank him for his excellent photographs that he has published on the Deans open day thread elsewhere in the forum.
Here are a few of mine - albeit only taken with my ropey camera phone - but I think they convey how she sits in the water:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/WP_20150911_10_31_19_Pro_zpsnue50wpl.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/WP_20150911_14_06_03_Pro_zpspxqdx5a7.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/WP_20150911_14_06_07_Pro_zpsiyiqpinx.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/WP_20150911_14_11_43_Pro_zpsqcopi1pr.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/WP_20150911_14_14_42_Pro_zpsn2t2vwjd.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/WP_20150911_14_11_49_Pro_zpsxqirbdbv.jpg)
One of our German visitors was so fascinated by the model, it would have been rude not to let him waggle the sticks!!!
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/WP_20150913_11_37_51_Pro_zpsdbe1mnda.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/WP_20150913_11_37_22_Pro_zpsug9x5wpx.jpg)
I have to say, he is a very skilled r/c sailor!!! He was manoeuvring her about far better than either I or dad could!!!!
Finally, here is a link to a little video I took - unfortunately because of only having just 2 channels the best we could do was to sail in a circle.........the wind also didn't help!!!
https://youtu.be/rbQKGPCchFo (https://youtu.be/rbQKGPCchFo)
Now I just have to sort out the packaging, have the laser cutting machine delivered, finish the instructions and a few other odds and sods and the kit will be ready!!!!
Price wise??? Most likely just under the £500 mark ;)
Exciting times.. :-))
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Fantastic Carl, she looks beautiful :-))
As I said in previous posts it's been worth the wait, very well done :-)
Just seen the Arthur Lowe film which is brilliant too.
Do we going to order via your website or PM?
Thanks Antony
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That is a wonderful blank canvas for many interesting company colour schemes carl. £500 for that level of shape and quality is a good price.
She does sail nicely, and despite the wind, she looks very stable and graceful.
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hi Carl
looks like you had fun at the weekend. I am gutted I could not make it but got to go on 2 real ferries . Can wait to see her at Warwick.
see you soon
john
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Fantastic Carl, she looks beautiful :-))
As I said in previous posts it's been worth the wait, very well done :-)
Just seen the Arthur Lowe film which is brilliant too.
Do we going to order via your website or PM?
Thanks Antony
Hi Antony - Thanks for the encouragement!!! Yes, it has been a long slog, and many thanks for hanging in there and having the patience to wait for me. Hoping to get the website up and running very soon now. Folk will be able to order through there, or via PM and / or email. Paypal or cheques will be fine to start with as I have no card facilities yet.....but all this will be announced properly later when I have spoken to Martin (our Leader O0 ) about 'regularising' our advertising on here and becoming a bona fide trader. Need to actually cost out the kit properly yet to finally fix the price!!!!
Is that a light I see at the end of the tunnel????? %%
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That is a wonderful blank canvas for many interesting company colour schemes carl. £500 for that level of shape and quality is a good price.
She does sail nicely, and despite the wind, she looks very stable and graceful.
Thank you Ian O0 . With a ferry, you can let your imagination run riot if you are not too bothered about originality!!! Just check out the Moby fleet:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Moby_Drea-03_b_zps8plexnct.jpg)
Yes, she seems very stable...and I am glad that we can appear to debunk the myth that ferries do not make good sailing models. Obviously, in a howling gale she will get blown about...but which ship wouldn't? And regardless of the type of ship, I am quite protective of my models and wouldn't subject them to abuse on the water in rough weather.
As for price, we are using the 'Jaguar' principle........'How can they build the quality for the price?' This was a common journalistic quote used to describe Jaguar cars in their heyday of the 1950's and 60's.
:-))
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hi Carl
looks like you had fun at the weekend. I am gutted I could not make it but got to go on 2 real ferries . Can wait to see her at Warwick.
see you soon
john
We will be at Warwick John - on the Knightcote MBC stand. Looking forward to seeing your Celestine on the water too!!! maybe we can persuade the master of ceremonies to have a 'ferries' slot for 20 minutes if there are a few of us there?
See you soon friend :-))
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Hoping to get the website up and running very soon now.
Got it bookmarked in anticipation. O0 :-))
Regards,
Ray.
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Sorry Carl.......couldn't resist...... ;D... Derek
PS........ Captain Ray.......how can you book mark something that doesn't exist?............... {-)
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[quotePS........ Captain Ray.......how can you book mark something that doesn't exist?............... {-)
But it does exist http://www.linkspanmodels.co.uk :-))
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Thank you Ian O0 . With a ferry, you can let your imagination run riot if you are not too bothered about originality!!! Just check out the Moby fleet:
Yes, she seems very stable...and I am glad that we can appear to debunk the myth that ferries do not make good sailing models. Obviously, in a howling gale she will get blown about...but which ship wouldn't? And regardless of the type of ship, I am quite protective of my models and wouldn't subject them to abuse on the water in rough weather.
As for price, we are using the 'Jaguar' principle........'How can they build the quality for the price?' This was a common journalistic quote used to describe Jaguar cars in their heyday of the 1950's and 60's.
:-))
NOOOOOOOOOO <:( Don't go there Carl. BMC used the shitest cheap steel to press the bodies from, which means that today, a rust free un restored Jag is one built post 1970s! Don't compare your excellent model with cost cutting and poor materials associated with sixties and seventies material quality. In the fifties there seemed to be a different beleif as I think the XK120s etc were better made.
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Ian - you hit the nail on the head mate!!!
You will note I said 50's & 60's....................Jaguars were certainly NOT built well in the 70's and the 80's weren't much better.... {:-{
For the standards of the day, the successful 'manager' in business could happily afford to buy a car from Jaguar knowing that he was getting a luxury car to match the likes of Daimler and such but with a far superior performance - all at a price which defied logic at the time. Of course, all this was in the time of ownership under Sir William Lyons....and he ruled the roost!!!!
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Thanks for that FctM........I have followed Carls build from day 1, however missed the link :embarrassed:
'But it does exist' ......... http://www.linkspanmodels.co.uk
Derek
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if you have ever watched the dover ferries start up after just a 20 minute stop, and the clouds of black smoke that erupt from the funnel, it would not surprise you.
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A bit of colour now added to the ferry :-))
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/041015-4_zps4bpwdw3y.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/041015-3_zpsp8wyhheb.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/041015-2_zpshewybxwg.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/041015-1_zpsapcynd35.jpg)
Just the deck fittings, davits & boats and railings left to fit, and she will be finished!!! %%
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She's a credit to you Carl, and to your product evaluation manager.
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She looks stunning Carl :-)) She's come one hell of a long way, but wow, she's been worth the wait ok2 Congratulations again.
Thanks Antony
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Wow!! Looking great!
Hama
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Cheers folks!! :-))
Spent the weekend setting up our new laser cutter/engraver. Different thicknesses of styrene require different speeds and powers applying to them to get a good cut without completely distorting or obliterating the styrene sheet! A 5 minute job it isn't........
This is the machine:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/HPC%20LASER%20LS3060_zpsqbejnjea.jpg)
And here is a test sheet of 1mm thick that was run off today:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/hpc2_zpsw9c66fr8.jpg)
Sufficient HIPS (styrene sheet) has been ordered for the first 5 kits and we expect these to arrive this week. All the etched brass has arrived, as have the propshafts. The hulls are in manufacture and the 3D fittings will be ordered this week and the new website is nearly finished.
The prototype 'Pride of Hythe' will be on display on the KMBC stand at the forthcoming Warwick show and we will also be having a stand at the Mobile Marine Models 'Christmas Cracker' show on the 28th November.
Finally for now, when I was still at school it was always my dream to join the merchant navy as a deck officer but unfortunately the recession in 1979/80 put paid to my sponsorship from BP so it wasn't to be. However, seeing as we are now looking to have our own ferry fleet, I thought it time I was suitably attired when skippering the boat across the pond so I managed to source this:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/TT%20Hat_zpsktxtaakt.jpg)
I know it needs a bit more scrambled egg for it to be a skippers hat, but it is a genuine TTF titfer nonetheless!!!!
Pip pip!!!
Carl :-))
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Good for you Carl, you have to have the right hat for the job:O)
Is the other laser cutter being kept for experimental work and evaluation etc?
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We only have the one laser machine - this one!
In the past, we have had to use the services of an outside bureaux but it was taking a long time to get parts back and the quality was getting 'questionable', so we decided that if we wanted to take this seriously then we needed to invest in a machine of our own.
Not cheap by any means, but if it means we can prototype more quickly and have control over the quality of the kit parts then it will be worth it in the long run.
As far as I know, there are only ourselves and Deans Marine who will be/ are offering kits with lasered parts. The use of a laser to cut the shape of the parts does not necessarily remove the need for the modeller to 'fettle' the parts once removed from the carrier frame, it just means that there should be an increased degree of accuracy over parts that are either printed or die-stamped onto styrene. The modeller will still need to tidy the edges of the lasered parts in the same manner as if they had cut them out with a modelling knife. The lasering leaves as slightly raised edge which needs removing.
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Sorry, I thought you had one before but it must have been something else! Given that you provide square/accurate parts to begin with, the fettling should be much easier and less onerous.
The benefits of laser cutting is manifest in the chap from Tasmania's Springer tug kit (Sorry, I cannot revcall his name) with the tabs and wedges for assisting assembly. This equipment seems to give the designer so much more scope for helping himself and the customer.
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Sorry, I thought you had one before but it must have been something else!
That would be E2V, Ian.
Carl does it also cut 1-1.5mm ply? I know yo are going to use it for your kits but what about accepting 'outside' work for a fee to keep things ticking over? Assumoing that is, that potential customers supply you with the G code, it does use G code doesn't it?
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Hi Brian - Yes, it will....but it wont like 'ordinary' ply due to the glue and voids. It would have to be 'laserable' ply - ply that has been developed specially for use in laser cutters/engravers.
As to the 'code'. I have no idea what 'G' code is. All the stuff I put through it is in dxf format. However, there are other formats it can read - I will investigate this evening.
Would we be willing to cut/engrave other work? Yes, of course. This machine is going to have to pay for itself!!! Let me get back to you on what it can 'read' and we can talk some more........
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A little bit of late night trivia.........
I have just worked out the cost of all the 3D fittings in the Free Enterprise V kit and they have come out to just over £110!!!
Somewhat surprising........ But then, I guess quality doesn't come cheap.... ;) .
Developing this kit has certainly opened my eyes to the incredible value of some of our 'home grown' model boat kit manufacturers......
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A few details added to the bow and stern of the model - all of these fittings are 3D printed including the windlasses and mooring winches:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20241015-1_zpsfbrqwmna.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20241015-2_zpsrn8mat5j.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20241015-4_zpsojfcobb7.jpg)
And now on to constructing the railings..................
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20241015-5_zpsjs89nptp.jpg)
As the brass etched railings are so small, there is a very slight tolerance inconsistency with the hole sizes - very minute - but it means that the modeller will have to just run a 0.45mm micro-drill through each one just to ensure that the horizontal wire rails will pass through.
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Looking good Carl - most professional. O0
You can be justifiably proud of your achievements to date. :-))
Regards,
Ray.
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Thank you Ray - I have to say, whenever I clap eyes on the model now, I certainly feel a sense of having accomplished something :-))
Made a start on fitting the railings and handrails today. All the stanchions and the top, flat, handrail are etched brass and the intermediate horizontal rails are 0.45mm dia brass wire:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20251015-2_zpsvydiamhz.jpg)
The stanchions are superglued into tiny holes drilled into the deck. It was originally planned that the flat handrail would have been soldered to the tops of the stanchions but, as an experiment, these bow rails have been entirely assembled using medium thickness superglue and it certainly seems to work!! Once left to dry for an hour or two, the whole assembly becomes very rigid. I think this will be the recommended method that we will write into the instructions.
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With the International Model Boat Show looming over the horizon we have been mad at it trying to get the boat ready. Whilst she is 'structurally' finished with quite a few details added, I really want to get as much of the railing finished as possible. To that end, any spare time (ha ha!!) is spent on the brasswork:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20311015-1_zpsd5vfznmf.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20311015-2_zpszzvjtioa.jpg)
Whether it will all be painted by show time I don't know, but we are getting there!!!!
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That would be E2V, Ian.
Carl does it also cut 1-1.5mm ply? I know yo are going to use it for your kits but what about accepting 'outside' work for a fee to keep things ticking over? Assumoing that is, that potential customers supply you with the G code, it does use G code doesn't it?
3d printers use G-code, the laser cutter uses only 2 dimensions
The file format varies with the make and model of the laser cutter. Although the cutting software can usually translate most 2d design file formats, For example Adobe Illustrator, Corel Draw, auto-cad et al
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3d printers use G-code, the laser cutter uses only 2 dimensions
The file format varies with the make and model of the laser cutter. Although the cutting software can usually translate most 2d design file formats, For example Adobe Illustrator, Corel Draw, auto-cad et al
Agreed!
I am an AutoCAD man myself (have used it for nearly 30 years) therefore I design in AutoCAD and save files for laser cutting in dxf.
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That's me done for the evening!!!
New funnel painted and P&O flag logos added (just the very top to paint black, but I need some Tamiya tape....), half the bow railings painted white and more railings added generally:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20011115-4_zpsudtqk8vy.jpg)
Day-job tomorrow then back at it in the evening :-)) :-)) :-))
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Wow :o She is looking superb :-))
Very well done Carl and good luck with the show. I'm sure there will be lots & lots of interest :}
Thanks Antony
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Hi Carl
Have followed this from the start. Just to ask a few questions, the 3D printed winches etc, in the pink they seemed to be slightly rough, did you sand them? as the fitted bits seem nicely smooth. Also you mentioned painting the railings, were they removed from the deck when the glue dried or painted in situ???
Mark
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What a crisp and professional looking model. I echo what the others have said about wishing you the best of luck and trade at the show Carl.
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Hi Carl
Have followed this from the start. Just to ask a few questions, the 3D printed winches etc, in the pink they seemed to be slightly rough, did you sand them? as the fitted bits seem nicely smooth. Also you mentioned painting the railings, were they removed from the deck when the glue dried or painted in situ???
Mark
Hi Mark - re the 3D winches, due to their size and delicacy, it would be very difficult to sand them. Some of the parts are only 0.2mm thick. All that has been done is that they were gently 'washed' in luke-warm soapy water and left to air-dry and then sprayed with grey primer. The thickness of the paint imparts a degree of smoothness. These winches (and a few other fine detailed parts) are printed in a material called Frosted Ultra Detail - a resin type plastic - but can be quite brittle and need considerate handling.
As to the other, white, 3D parts.....they are printed in a 'nylon' type of plastic. They are printed in a powder medium which needs to be cleaned off before painting. Again, these are washed in luke-warm soapy water and left to air-dry. One issue with the 3d printing process in this material is that the parts are microscopically porous - paint will 'bleed' through the surface. On a solid object that is a single colour this isn't an issue, but with parts such as the vent cowls with red innards the red paint will bleed through to the outer surface of the cowl. To prevent this, a single coat of satin varnish was applied following washing and left to dry for a couple of days prior to final painting. These 'white' 3D parts have a slight rough finish to them (a bit like 1200grade wet n dry). This finish doesn't really detract from the finish of the part but if the modeller requires a perfectly smooth finish then they will need to give the parts a light sanding prior to painting.
Railings - These were painted in situ on the model. Again, the stanchions are scale height and thickness so are quite delicate until they are combined with the horizontal railings and handrails. I am still experimenting with different methods of fitting the railings - so far I have threaded the rails onto the stanchions 'dry' off the model and then, using superglue, located the stanchions into pre-drilled holes in the deck. Once the stanchions had dried, superglue was then touched in on the joints of the stanchions and rails using a piece of brass wire. The following day, the flat-top handrail was either superglued or soldered to the tops of the stanchions. My next experiment is to use a copy of the deck plan fixed to a flat piece of wood as a template and assemble and paint the rails off the model. Luckily, the plethora of railings on this ship are broken down into manageable chunks as there are small gates at intervals.
I will try to pop up some more photos a little later.
Carl
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Off to take the model to the International Model Boat Show at Warwick very soon.....
Not much more I can do to her today - but I think she is presentable enough for now.
Work in progress as they say!!!
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20051115-1_zpsesbnvmhn.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20051115-2_zpsoxc1aoz1.jpg)
:-))
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Don't forget the hat Carl! :police:
...or is it only for use when sailing?!
Andy
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Wow, she looks magnificent! Good luck on the show, and definitely wear the hat!
Hama
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That is one fine looking ferry.
Full order books methinks :-))
Ned
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If there is any fairness in the world Ned, you will be spot on.
Gorgeous gorgeous display model Carl. I hope she sails and behaves well for you throughout the weekend. Is your website up and running?
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She's looking splendid Carl, could be a glass cabinet model for sure!
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it has taken me some time to read through this build log, but it has been worth it.
I didn't realise how much time, effort and money goes into the development of a kit that people can enjoy building. You people who do this are very brave indeed to undertake such projects.
Your model is superb, and there are so many talented modellers on here.
Jim.
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I hope to catch up with you at Mobile Marine Carl.
Regards Howard.
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Don't forget the hat Carl! :police:
...or is it only for use when sailing?!
Andy
Hat wasn't forgotten Andy :-))
I saved it until the last day and wore it pool-side whilst sailing {-)
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Wow, she looks magnificent! Good luck on the show, and definitely wear the hat!
Hama
Thankyou friend!!! Hat was worn O0
Need to email you very soon - sorry I have been so remiss in getting back to you recently....been so busy lately that things have got a little 'left behind'. I did get the lines drawing for Dalaro - thank you so much - will email tomorrow evening when I get back from London... :-))
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That is one fine looking ferry.
Full order books methinks :-))
Ned
Cheers Ned :-)) We shall see........website goes live at the end of the month and the first 5 kits will be packed and ready by then O0
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If there is any fairness in the world Ned, you will be spot on.
Gorgeous gorgeous display model Carl. I hope she sails and behaves well for you throughout the weekend. Is your website up and running?
Thank you kind Sir!!!! As mentioned, website should be up and running by end of November. Just sorting out the banking and merchant accounts so that we can take payments online (as well as at shows). It is a real 'eye-opener' just what has to be done in the background with starting even a small venture like this!! Did you know that we are supposed to put a notice on the front of the boxes something along the lines of "This is NOT a toy - it is a collectors item"? Otherwise we would have to comply with a whole host of regulations related to the manufacture and sale of toys!!!!
And I thought the designing of the kit was the hard part..................
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She's looking splendid Carl, could be a glass cabinet model for sure!
Cheers Brian - but a glass case model she isn't I'm afraid. She looks fine in the photos, but up close you can see the rough edges.
In truth, she is just our prototype 'mule' to test theories, part fit, motor and ballast selection. That is why she is in the P&O colours as opposed to the Townsend green that I really would like. The second model will really be the display model - in the TTF green - as she will be built with just a little more care, have lights all working, mixers on the motors, bow thruster and working bow rudder.
THAT one will go into a glass case!!! O0 :-))
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it has taken me some time to read through this build log, but it has been worth it.
I didn't realise how much time, effort and money goes into the development of a kit that people can enjoy building. You people who do this are very brave indeed to undertake such projects.
Your model is superb, and there are so many talented modellers on here.
Jim.
Thank you Jim :-))
Some would say I was more daft than brave to attempt this.....but I have to admit, it appears to be turning out OK. Funnily enough, the Knightcote MBC have asked that I give a half hour talk next week on designing and producing a kit......somehow I will have to condense 4 1/2 years of work into half an hour!!! {-)
And I wholeheartedly agree with you - there really are some magnificent modellers out there......I just wish I could emulate them!!!
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I hope to catch up with you at Mobile Marine Carl.
Regards Howard.
Looking forward to it Howard :-)) :-)) :-)) Really hope you can make it mate O0 O0 Lots to catch up on!!!
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Look what I managed to pick up today :-)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20111115-2_zpsdfu0vw58.jpg)
The hulls for the first 5 kits of the Free Enterprise V!!!! %% %% %%
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Wow :} Now you know its serious Carl. You must be really pleased to see the quality consistant across the five and know your craftsmanship and attention to detail allowed these to be. Now stick them in boxes and get them sold :-))
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Wow :} Now you know its serious Carl. You must be really pleased to see the quality consistant across the five and know your craftsmanship and attention to detail allowed these to be. Now stick them in boxes and get them sold :-))
Cheers Ian - Yes, I am very pleased with the consistency that the fabricators have got across the 5 hulls. Uniform thickness and no blemishes. Just the usual central moulding line on the under-hull to remove.
Boxes are stacked in the living room - just need to find a stapler to assemble them!!!!
Exciting times :-))
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They look good quality Carl. I notice you have them on top of the new laser cutter :} Be careful of the sticky out bit. The CO2 tube is in there and if it gets damaged that'll be over 300 quid for a new one!
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If I had 5 identical hulls I'd give one away to someone on here... %)
...just kidding Carl. {-)
It's great to see you're well on your way to supplying those kits. :-))
Regards,
Ray.
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Excellent job!!! I would like to see a kit of the Viking Viscount at some point, very similar to the F.E V but better looking imo.
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They look good quality Carl. I notice you have them on top of the new laser cutter :} Be careful of the sticky out bit. The CO2 tube is in there and if it gets damaged that'll be over 300 quid for a new one!
That 'sticky out bit' is the bane of my life in the workshop!!!! It is constantly on my mind when moving about in there. It IS pretty well protected in the metal case but nevertheless, if the machine is bumped in to too often it can knock the mirrors off 'true' and it is a real mare to have to re-set them.
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Excellent job!!! I would like to see a kit of the Viking Viscount at some point, very similar to the F.E V but better looking imo.
A Super Viking is most certainly on the cards Senlac - just need to find drawings of a sufficient quality to create it!!!!
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If I had 5 identical hulls I'd give one away to someone on here... %)
...just kidding Carl. {-)
It's great to see you're well on your way to supplying those kits. :-))
Regards,
Ray.
Cheers Ray - You know, I may just raffle a kit next year with proceeds to the RNLI. Will need to look into the legality of it (gaming or gambling laws apply).
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Another piece of the jigsaw puzzle which is this kit has been sorted today.....
The sheet of vacuum formed lifeboats and funnel cap :-))
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20131115-1_zpsgzhfmruh.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20131115-3_zps1nl8ds0p.jpg)
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Starting to assemble the first 5 kits this week %% %% %% - Hopefully will have them with us at the Mobile Marine Models Christmas Cracker show on Saturday :-)) .
Etched brass frets being carefully wrapped:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20231115-1_zps0xlpu3de.jpg)
This pile of styrene sheets are all cut and sorted ready to be put through the laser-cutter tomorrow :
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20231115-2_zpspgiwmpqd.jpg)
Nearly all the fittings have arrived - mooring winch anyone?
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20231115-3_zpshd2gbnxc.jpg)
Or maybe a liferaft canister or davit?
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20231115-4_zpsdkeeorhk.jpg)
Brass props and bespoke propshafts and tubes - no skimping here!!! :
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20231115-5_zpssywkcgkj.jpg)
Just a few odds and ends still to arrive, but we will be at the show regardless O0 O0 O0
Pip pip!!!
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Gosh I wish I had money. :((
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Any news on the price of the kit?
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Any news on the price of the kit?
Was working through that this weekend.
£415 + VAT and post.
Will give a detailed introduction to the kit later this week, once we have sorted the 'necessaries' out with Martin :-))
'Expressions of interest' gladly taken, but no orders just yet. Just a couple of things to sort out with the bank and then we will be good to go. We were told all should be sorted in the next 48 hours this evening :-))
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It all looks very professional and workmanlike Carl.
And a very superb looking kit and model indeed.
I wish your venture very much success, especially all of the hard and extensive time and work that you have put into it.
Well done,
Jim
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We are now up to the 'cardboard prototype proof of concept' stage where a half sized (1:192) frame model is made to confirm ideas and shape, before progressing to forming a plug for the hull and having the superstructure parts laser cut.
It has taken 2 months of drawing to get to this point and I estimate another month of drawing is left. Then it is on to producing all the moulds for the fittings and getting the etched brass sheets made.
Hi Carl
Well you wrote that way back in January 2011 and you made it all sound so easy. Huge congratulations on your stamina and bringing it all to fruition: The Labours of Hercules were dull compared to this O0
Regards Dave
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It all looks very professional and workmanlike Carl.
And a very superb looking kit and model indeed.
I wish your venture very much success, especially all of the hard and extensive time and work that you have put into it.
Well done,
Jim
Thank you for your kind words and encouragement Jim - they are really appreciated :-)) I just hope anyone who does buy the kit enjoys it. It isn't the easiest r/c kit in the world and some experience wouldn't go amiss, but I have tried to put the instructions into some kind of logical sequence and those, combined with the 2D and 3D drawings should help guide the modeller along.
At the end of the day, I am only at the other end of the ether if anyone does have problems. Email questions would be quicker to answer than phone as I still have to hold down a day-job!
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Hi Carl
Well you wrote that way back in January 2011 and you made it all sound so easy. Huge congratulations on your stamina and bringing it all to fruition: The Labours of Hercules were dull compared to this O0
Regards Dave
Jeeeze Dave!!! Nigh on 6 years!!!!!! I knew it had been a long time but I really didn't realise it had been THAT long <:( . Mind you, the whole process has been a massive learning curve for me (and expensive!!!!!) and I don't think that future kits will take as long.
Thanks for sticking with me mate :-)) I still have a hankering to sort out the Kalakala.....I just wish I hadn't lost all my drawings when I had the disc crash. Bear with me..........
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Spent all day in the workshop today burning styrene sheets. When running a laser cutting machine, it has to be supervised at all times in case of fire. This is a very real danger as the fumes given off can spontaneously combust and if you are not watching the machine you could kiss goodbye to 4 grand!!!
All went well - managed to cut probably 2/3rds of all the required sheets for the 5 kits.
However, at the end of the day a cleaning routine has to be gone through. This involves cleaning the mirrors, lens and bed of the machine. Unfortunately, when I took the head unit apart to clean it, the lens dropped out in shattered parts!!! I knew it was damaged - it had been so since the machine was installed and we were waiting on a new lens being delivered. However, now it is actually in bits it means the machine cannot be used!!! >>:-( Oh well, a trip up to Halifax on Thursday for me then - the supplier will not send the lens through the post as it is very delicate and costs £75!!! :o As I need it tout suite, I will have to fetch it myself %) .
Anyroad - here are a few smudges of what we have been doing today:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20241115-1_zpsxzodd1u7.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20241115-2_zpsosahp3ni.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20241115-3_zpsd3rf6ues.jpg)
:-))
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Since you mentioned Kalakala, here are a few drawings: http://www.kalakala.org/vesseltour/At-A-Glance.html
I think they show what the ship would have looked like had she been converted into a stationary attraction.
There must be more-detailed drawings somewhere in the Puget Sound area. This looks like a good place to start the search: http://pugetmaritime.org/research.htm - note the the Ships Plans Research Inquiries form.
Tom
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I hope that the installation of your new lense will not be too difficult. I remember a carpenter friend of mine saying about fitting planer blades that it can take seconds or an hour depending on the day you are having.
The sheets look crisp (in an accurate way and not a scorched way:O) Carl.
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Those styrene sheets look crisp and clean Carl. I've been experimenting with my laser this week, trying to get some ball park speed and power settings for different thicknesses. Of course now its working my wife has suddenly decided she (substitute me for she! she has no idea!) should be able to use it to make craft stuff for sale!
Your lens is probably replaced under warranty but there are several sellers of spares that work out cheaper. Is the lens a 12mm/18mm/22mm? Check out www.lightobject.com
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Since you mentioned Kalakala, here are a few drawings: http://www.kalakala.org/vesseltour/At-A-Glance.html (http://www.kalakala.org/vesseltour/At-A-Glance.html)
I think they show what the ship would have looked like had she been converted into a stationary attraction.
There must be more-detailed drawings somewhere in the Puget Sound area. This looks like a good place to start the search: http://pugetmaritime.org/research.htm (http://pugetmaritime.org/research.htm) - note the the Ships Plans Research Inquiries form.
Tom
Thank you Tom - Will take a closer look this weekend :-))
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Re the laser cut sheets - it took a fair while to find the right power and speed settings to get a clean cut, but we got there in the end. There are so many variables that there is no 'fixed' setting. Ambient temperature, cooling water temperature and mirror/lens cleanliness as well as different manufacturers of the styrene sheets can all play havoc with the settings. Was speaking with HPC Laser (the suppliers of our machine) yesterday and they confirm that a test cut should be run each time before putting the actual job through the machine.
Good news too - picked up our new lens yesterday. No cost as it was broken before they delivered the machine. Unfortunately, warranty doesn't cover things like lenses and mirrors as these can be broken by the user. SO - back to burning plastic!!!! :-))
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Tomorrow is the Mobile Marine Models Christmas Cracker show!!
If you are in the area, why not drop by? We will be there with our prototype and a boxed kit of the Free Enterprise V for folk to take a look at - to see what they will be getting for their money!!! O0
Come and say Hi :-))
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20customers%20kits/LM001-003-1_zpspbb1aqlg.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20customers%20kits/LM001-003-7_zpslnmxdfhx.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20customers%20kits/LM001-003-8_zpsh42npdjb.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20customers%20kits/LM001-003-9_zpsbpwz1ryt.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20customers%20kits/LM001-003-5_zpsr5olom0u.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20customers%20kits/LM001-003-10_zps6xyeeo3s.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20customers%20kits/LM001-003-11_zps53m7rskh.jpg)
:-))
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Carl
Congratulations on reaching this point. The kit looks superb - just wish I wasn't so far from Lincoln so I could see it in real life.
I hope you sell all your first run at the weekend.
Barrie
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BOOOTYFUL.
as we say in Narfolk.
It looks absolutely superb and so professional.
Jim.
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And with a really useful stout box for putting stuff in after you have built the model:O)
I agree with BFSMP, that is a well presented kit and up there with the other manufacturers for packaging (from what I have seen about).
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just a thought, what about including a couple of styrene supports cut to shape for the hull to fit inside the box, turning it into a transport case.
Grendel
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I wonder if you can cut expanded polystyrene in a laser cutter?
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I wonder if you can cut expanded polystyrene in a laser cutter?
What a cracking idea chaps!!!
Need to check about the expanded polystyrene, but from memory I think it is possible.......
Bearing in mind that the laser (well, mine particularly) can only cut in 2D, I think maybe 4 shaped blocks under the hull, one around the bow and one around the stern may do the job of holding the hull in the box securely.
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Assuming you can use standard polystyrene, you can get 8x4 sheets from the builders merchants for a reasonable price. I supose the biggest consideration (apart from the effect it will have on your cutter) is, will the extra bits affect my overheads and thus kit price? Perhaps a printed template for the customer to cut his own might be a solution? I like Grendel's idea bestest if it is practical for you Carl.
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The laser cutter has been busy this past week!!!
A short video of it cutting a sheet of 1mm styrene for the kit:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IYBOUm7VZHQ (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IYBOUm7VZHQ)
:-))
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Is there a reason why the laser cutter jumps from cutting one peice then goes to a entirely different component then cuts a a few sections then on to another peice?
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Is there a reason why the laser cutter jumps from cutting one peice then goes to a entirely different component then cuts a a few sections then on to another peice?
There are a couple of reasons why they do this, primarily its the way the cutter interprets the software from the computer. Depending on the software, RDWorks for instance you can use the settings to link each cut piece in the order you wish. So that it can cut the windows in one piece and then cut the outer line. Then move on to the windows in the next pieces and then cut the outer line.
This isn't possible in Coreldraw/laser software because it works using layers. Using this so far I have sussed you can do similar in that you can put the windows in layer 1, then the outer cut on layer 2 etc etc, the laser then works through the layers starting at 1 until the last layer.
Check out youtube there are loads of instructional videos that show the process. But as Carl has the laser working is the best way for styrene in that no one area is getting too hot and melting the edges from being worked too long.
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Brian is spot on!!
In the main, the software (Lasercut 5.3 on our machine) works out an efficient path but I refine this further to avoid overheating the styrene. Our software uses colours as opposed to layers but the same principle. Further, I find that if I introduce a few more 'tabs' to hold the parts into the carrier sheet, then there is also no distortion. If I was to allow the laser to cut a long line - say over 50mm - without a break, then the heat build up is so great that the styrene starts to twist away from the heat source.
You will notice toward the end of the video that the machine speeds up but doesn't seem to actually cut anything. In fact, what it is doing is etching the panel lines into the surface of the styrene sheet to give the impression of the wooden doors in the superstructure. It is known as a 'kiss-cut' and is the laser on a high speed but low setting, so instead of cutting right through the sheet, it only scores the surface. I can see this being an excellent way of scribing deck planks into ply sheets (as well as styrene) - the laser 'burning' the surface may be a good impression of caulking. When I get a bit of time, I will have a play with that idea...........
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Très belle réalisation,
Very well done, it would be a beautifull kit. You could be pround to achieve your project. Would you join a DVD with photos Inside ?
Sylvain
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Laser cutting etc. separated out , here: http://www.modelboatmayhem.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,53245.0.html
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Très belle réalisation,
Very well done, it would be a beautifull kit. You could be pround to achieve your project. Would you join a DVD with photos Inside ?
Sylvain
Thank you Martin - I will just reinstate my reply to Sylvain :-))
Thank you Sylvain (http://www.modelboatmayhem.co.uk/forum/Smileys/Tug/thumbup.gif)
Yes, a CD containing ALL the photographs taken of the prototype construction will be included.
Unfortunately, due to copyright issues, I cannot include photographs of the real ship but these are plentiful on the web - after all, that is where I got nearly all mine from!
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thank you Martin, I did ask in one of the replies.
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Just a quick update!
We haven't been lazy or slacking in the background - contrary to the lack of posts on here - but, to date, there has been little positive to post. We have been somewhat frustrated by our website payments account provider over the last couple of months such that we have had to start the process again. Andy (Dreadnought) has built a great website and is now awaiting a 'conversation' with the techies at the provider end to build the 'checkout' page - and then we should be good to launch. Speaking to the 'provider' today, we should have a decision within 5 days and then it will be down to Andy and the techies to pull it all together.
The first kits are ready - just need to be boxed up!
As soon as the website is live, we will announce it here :-))
Additionally, we are off to Dortmund in April for the Intermodellbau. Should be an 'interesting' experience - and we will be in the tender care of Ron Dean (Deans Marine) and our friends at the Peterborough Area Model Boat Club. Really looking forward to this trip and learning all about the modelling scene in Germany and the rest of Europe.
Getting excited now!!!
Carl :-))
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:-)) watch this space!
Andy
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As soon as the website is live, we will announce it here :-))
Getting excited now!!!
Carl :-))
Very much looking forward to it Carl. O0 :-))
Regards,
Ray.
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Have a good time Carl.
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Yes have a good time visiting Carl.
If you see any nice Ulstein X-Bow models can you take a few pix please :}
Dave
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Yes have a good time visiting Carl.
If you see any nice Ulstein X-Bow models can you take a few pix please :}
Dave
Thanks all :-))
And yes Dave - I will have a gander for your X-Bow. Cameras will be fully charged!!!
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At last!!!!!
Paypal have approved our application for the card hosting service and payment system for the website - it has only taken them months!!!! >>:-( <*<
Over to Andy now to work his magic on the website - and try and make some sense of the gobbledygook that they have provided to integrate it all - at least, it is complete gibberish to me!!! %%
For those who do not like paypal, there will be the normal debit/credit card payment option alongside. The paypal button is there because they are hosting the payments - we at Linkspan cannot comply with the financial regulation obligations to 'host' it ourselves and, to be honest, we would rather the privacy of the card details is kept with the card holder - we will never see the details.
It has been a long road, but I think we are nearly there now!!
Carl O0
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The excitement is building up, Linkspan is in the "favourites", just waiting for the big announcement. :-))
Regards,
Ray.
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Cheers Ray :-))
And many, many thanks to ALL who have either helped, encouraged or contributed to us getting this little venture down the slipway and into the water. In many ways it has all been invaluable and I sincerely thank you.
I cant quite believe that we are so close now....
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Hi Carl,
So pleased to see all that hard work has now payed off and you can now start planing another one.
good look with all the sales and looking forward to seeing some soon on the water.
Regards Howard.
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Thank you Howard - you are too kind Sir!!! Just as soon as the website is finished, we should be up and running :-)) .
A little progress update on the prototype - with the Dortmund show looming over the horizon, we are trying to complete the Pride of Hythe for display. Not much left now......finish off the railings and shipping the lifeboats (and add further detail to them), then she shall be ready to receive her passengers:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20280316-2_zpsyyydi0fu.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20280316-3_zpsjjeertos.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20280316-4_zpsmyyyoa7o.jpg)
:-))
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Hi Mate, hope you have a sucsessful show at Dortmund, with luck selling dozens of kits
Regards
Mark
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Likewise carl, I wish you a profitable week in Germany.
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Hi Carl,
Sorry completely forgot to upload this for you! - https://youtu.be/yR2B2xgcdME (https://youtu.be/yR2B2xgcdME)
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That was a demonstration to behold.
Note: The wasp (1.50 into the video) could have caused a calamity - PHEW! :o
...oh, and thanks for posting the link Martin. :-))
Regards,
Ray.
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Hi Carl,
Sorry completely forgot to upload this for you! - https://youtu.be/yR2B2xgcdME (https://youtu.be/yR2B2xgcdME)
Thank you Martin!!!! :-)) :-)) :-)) :-)) :-))
I had quite forgotten about that - excellent camera work! Would you mind if I copied that onto the CD of photographs that I will include with the kit? It demonstrates very clearly how the superstructure is removed to gain access to the internals (although the roof to the bridge and observation lounge is designed to be fixed in the kit).
As for the wasp - I hadn't realised that he had made an appearance at the time. Could have been 'interesting' if the beggar had stung me whilst holding the model aloft!!!! :o
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Did the wasp put an order in? I saw its little wallet bulging:O)
Seriously though, that is a very extensive kit. I like the options you have to superdetail the decks and the fact they provide lots of places to stop the water, so saving your electronics from all but the most serious of dousings.
Excellent!
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Did the wasp put an order in? I saw its little wallet bulging:O)
Seriously though, that is a very extensive kit. I like the options you have to superdetail the decks and the fact they provide lots of places to stop the water, so saving your electronics from all but the most serious of dousings.
Excellent!
{-) {-) He certainly seemed to have a close enough look Ian!!!!
As for the decks, because the car deck is open at the stern I felt that it needed the chance for the modeller to detail it to their heart's content. I have many photos of the external and car decks for this vessel so they will be included on a CD. Because the car deck is open, this caused me some headache figuring out how to make it look presentable while at the same time including for access down to the motors etc. Once the top structure and then the intermediate decks are removed it is quite easy to get quite a large hand down and into the hull - from the stern all the way up to the bow.
As for the upper, internal, decks - it will be up to the modeller as to how far they want to go with the detailing. The instructions will include a note as to how to go about ordering the 3D printed Observation Lounge seating and Bridge detail unit directly from Shapeways should they want it. Unfortunately, they are a little pricey (relative to the other 3D fittings) and it would have pushed the initial cost of the kit up too much to have included them as standard. The Bridge and the Observation Lounge have quite large windows so internal detail would be quite visible - especially if there is internal lighting as well.
Here are a few snaps taken just now - lifeboats shipped.....now finishing off the railings. Seats are just placed on the deck at the moment:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20030416-1_zpsyxqwlqjh.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20030416-2_zps5wciepjb.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20030416-3_zps5am5zwbw.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/FEV%20030416-4_zpswnpuwnlv.jpg)
The blue "P&O" logo still has its carrier sheet attached. When applying these graphics, you have to leave the carrier sheet on for a while (I generally leave it overnight) to allow the adhesive on the graphic to 'do its stuff' before removing the carrier sheet otherwise, if you try to remove it beforehand, the graphic will come away as well. These are David Leftley Graphics and very good they are too.
Onwards!!!!!!!!!!! :-))
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And upwards! You could offer a 'Deluxe' kit with them included? After all, you would be offering some very special extras for the price as the prints look great. Though I expect you brain stormed this put months back so ignore my gibberings!!!!
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she looks a beautiful kit and so much work going into it's development.
well done.
Jim.
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Thank you for all your kind comments friends O0 .
It has been a long, hard and sometimes frustrating road to get to this stage but, as of today, I think we can say that the prototype for the Free Enterprise V kit is now finished!
I have thoroughly enjoyed developing this model - and whilst, as I said, some aspects were frustrating it has all gone to add to my knowledge and experience to create the second kit. I have learned a hell of a lot. Some things I will do differently - the plug construction being one - and others have been a resounding success. This model represents quite a few thousand pounds of investment - but I consider it an investment well worth while to be able to offer something different to the ship modelling fraternity in the UK and around the world.
I have had plenty of encouragement from the community on here from the beginning and on Facebook over the past year and I thank you all.
In addition, I would like to especially thank those members of the Model Boat Trade who have unstintingly given encouragement and advice and their valuable time to impart their knowledge and wisdom which has helped us enormously. In particular, I would like to mention Ron Dean of Deans Marine who has helped, advised and encouraged without question and has freely given of his time in answering my many questions - thank you sincerely Ron.....see you in Dortmund next week.
So - finally - here she is........on the waters of our local canal:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/DSCN0973_zpsnqmaw4ia.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/DSCN0974_zps5mcafmju.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/DSCN0976_zpshkfz7n9l.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/DSCN0977_zpstyvp54qk.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/DSCN0978_zpscca3cmrz.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/DSCN0981_zpsur14hrgu.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/DSCN0982_zps6mtno6oy.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/DSCN0983_zpsthm3juhd.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/DSCN0984_zps2llpjnmc.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/DSCN0985_zps4lmlxpej.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/DSCN0986_zpsxpuhsi3k.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/DSCN0987_zps1hkalsnt.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/DSCN0988_zpsk2af0ax8.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/DSCN0989_zpsfdvfk1np.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/DSCN0990_zpssqmn93wc.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/DSCN0991_zpsosiwdhc6.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/DSCN0992_zpslhcka9jc.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/DSCN0993_zpsfznfzzne.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/DSCN0994_zpsqtmax13r.jpg)
With a bit of luck and a fair wind (and after a lot of hard work from Andy (dreadnought72), we hope to make an announcement tomorrow about the website :-)) .
Has it all been worth it?
You bet it has!!!!!! O0 O0 O0
See you in Dortmund or, if not, then at Weeksteed in a few week's time :-))
Carl
Linkspan Models
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I am very pleased for you because it has been an adventure. I love the way the figures tell a story on the model thus adding interest and entertainment.
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Absolutely stunning Carl & congratulations :-)).......may your order book swell.......did she throw the port prop?.................. Derek
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Absolutely stunning Carl & congratulations :-)) .......may your order book swell.......did she throw the port prop?.................. Derek
Ha ha {-) {-) {-) Well spotted!!! Yes - unfortunately she did. I did begin to wonder toward the end of sailing why I had to wind on a lot of rudder trim to keep her straight - then I found out. That's the second that has been lost to the deep - must use some thread-lock....this is getting expensive!!!!
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She's an absolute beauty Carl, you can justifiably be very, very proud of your achievement.
Wishing you every success in the coming months & years ahead. O0
...and many, many thanks for taking the time to post so much information and photographs. :-))
Regards,
Ray.
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Simply stunning and thanks for taking us along with you on the journey. It's been a fascinating insight into the development of a kit and thoroughly enjoyable to see develop into this magnificent offering.
Alex
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Well done Carl - were I 10 years younger I would have my name down for one to remind me of all the crossings I made in the "Prides". Too big for me now unfortunately :(( :((
Barrie
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Many thanks for all the compliments chaps!!! They are really appreciated O0
Barrie - she isn't too large......she fits in the boot of my Audi A4 with room to spare ok2.
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THE DEED IS DONE - THE WEBSITE IS LIVE!!!!!! :-)) :-)) :-)) :-))
As per Mayhem rules, you can find all the details in the Trader section here:
http://www.modelboatmayhem.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,54557.msg564713.html#new (http://www.modelboatmayhem.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,54557.msg564713.html#new)
But otherwise.............
www.linkspanmodels.co.uk (http://www.linkspanmodels.co.uk) will get you your ticket to classic ferry travel - in miniature!!!!!
Carl :-))
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Another manufacturer is always welcome, especially in 1/96th!! Looking forward to the Norland being released, sailed on her in 1974! Happy Days!
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Another manufacturer is always welcome, especially in 1/96th!! Looking forward to the Norland being released, sailed on her in 1974! Happy Days!
Now that the FEV is ready, I am looking forward to cracking on with the Norland. Keep an eye open on Mayhem for a similar thread to this one - it has been started, now I must get on and finish it!!!
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Great news! Do you have a link to the thread? Thanks,
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Any chance that the Norland kit will include the Falklands conversions?
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Hi Carl
Couldnt get the our fleet or technical page to open; the other two pages were ok.
Dave
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Hi Carl
Couldnt get the our fleet or technical page to open; the other two pages were ok.
Dave
Thanks Dave - Just taken a look myself and seems all OK at this end (just as a user myself - I don't have access to the 'code' behind it all). I will let Andy know and he will most likely take a gander soon.
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Great news! Do you have a link to the thread? Thanks,
Here you go.......
http://www.modelboatmayhem.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,29834.0.html (http://www.modelboatmayhem.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,29834.0.html)
As for the Falklands 'add-ons' - I will need to take a closer look at what is needed. I know the heli-decks were prominent, but I seem to recall that to fit them some of the rear superstructure was altered. The other alteration that might be offered would be a stretching kit to allow the modeller to depict her following her lengthening. But I think this would be to special order only as it would require an extra lay-up of the hull centre section. She will be a large model as standard - stretching her would make the model somewhat unwieldy!!
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Tried again and they open drop down boxes on my iphone but not on my android tablet Carl?
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Tried again and they open drop down boxes on my iphone but not on my android tablet Carl?
Thanks for this Dave - I have emailed Andy to let him know. I know he is a busy chap but he will get back to me sometime today.
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Hearty congratulations Carl and Andy - the Linkspan Models website is crisp & clean and, as far as I can ascertain, very user friendly.
Well done to your whole team. :-)) :-))
Regards,
Ray.
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Carl, just read through the whole thread and mightily impressed doesn't come close!! Truely inspired work & committment! Any chance of turning your attention to post war warships & the Royal Fleet Auxillary? I'm aware of Fleetscale & Scalewarship but neither appear to put together such a comprehensive package as yourself. Deans Marine kits are excellent too but no RFA or modern warships!!
Looking forward to MV Norland, will go well with my HMS Plymouth!
Robbie
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Lovely work. The workshop looks very professional like and the plug looks pretty darn good :-))
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Carl, just read through the whole thread and mightily impressed doesn't come close!! Truely inspired work & committment! Any chance of turning your attention to post war warships & the Royal Fleet Auxillary? I'm aware of Fleetscale & Scalewarship but neither appear to put together such a comprehensive package as yourself. Deans Marine kits are excellent too but no RFA or modern warships!!
Looking forward to MV Norland, will go well with my HMS Plymouth!
Robbie
Cheers Robbie for the compliments!! :-))
As for the RFA's etc., as Linkspan Models we will only be concentrating on ferries - either car, passenger, train or estuarial - as this is a section of the r/c boat market that is lacking. One thing we have learnt during this whole process is that there is an un-written 'agreement' between the UK manufacturers that they will not 'tread on each other's toes'. The market is too small to start competing with each other on prototype subjects and, over the years, each manufacturer has developed their kits to fit in a certain segment. Fleetscale concentrate on their subjects and do not produce the likes of what Model Slipway produce. Mobile Marine Models are specialists in the large scale tugs, Deans Marine concentrate on merchant vessels, pleasure boats and Naval vessels up to (I think) the end of WWII. Sirmar would probably have been the manufacturer who would have produced an RFA (if Fleetscale decided not to), but I am unsure as to their status these days.
If Fleetscale are unwilling to look at this particular prototype, and Sirmar are not in the frame, then maybe drop a line to Ron at Deans Marine to see what he thinks. But as a manufacturer specialising in ferries, we would not be looking to produce a model such a an RFA - although it would make a great model with an abundance of detail!!!
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Just a little update to the thread for the Free Enterprise V model...........
It has now been just over a year since we started offering this kit and, to date, we have launched over 25 kits to their new owners - both here in the UK and to Germany, Belgium and Denmark! Thank you all who have trusted in us and supported us with this - quite a few who have purchased have kept in touch whilst they have been building their models and have sent photographs of their progress and, we have to say, the models do look superb!!! A popular option has been to add lighting to the model and one chap we know of has even managed to have the headlights on the cars on the car-deck lit - now that is detail........ Another chap has managed to fabricate a method of having the bow and stern doors operating on his model as well as full LED lighting. It is very gratifying to read and hear of the progress being made with these models and we hope to see some of them on the ponds one day.
Another pleasant surprise was the review article in the May issue of Marine Modelling Magazine. Obviously we knew that a review was being carried out but, other than when I delivered the kit to the reviewer, we had no contact with him during the build so to read the article was very gratifying.
Here is a shot of the cover:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/MMI%20MAY%2017%20FEV%2001_zpsyire7gp8.jpg)
Now to get the Norland finished for launch and crack on with the next one (or two....or three......)
Carl
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Here are a couple of shots about some of the models being built or now finished.........
Cars on the car deck with working headlights:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/15369081_1123472337699848_2815091729703096640_o_zpsxchwlqoz.jpg)
Completed model of the Free Enterprise V in her Townsend Thoresen orange livery post 1976 and pre 1985:
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/17435849_1215413885172359_1620861707635278231_o_zpszpel29ht.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/17434560_1215413891839025_3614879134908960678_o_zps9rfg0s9h.jpg)
(http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t339/carlmtflo/Free%20Enterprise%20V/17390385_1215413901839024_6606384911413545201_o_zpslkp4a9un.jpg)
:-))
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It shows that your kits are well designed to allow resourceful people to do things like have working doors which has to have room for the linkages and motors etc. 25 is a good number of sales and I wish you just as much success with the other kits if not more.
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Thanks for your kind comments Ian, really appreciated. For me, it isn't so much the number of kits sold per se as the hope that those that have bought them enjoy building them. I get immense pleasure designing the kits........I just hope that others get a similar pleasure from building them.
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Hello,
Really great job, the townsend thoren version reminds me a little my childhood. I was very impressed by this boat when I saw her on Cherbourg's quay. Do you think it's possible to open the hull door ?
Très beau travail.
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Hello,
Really great job, the townsend thoren version reminds me a little my childhood. I was very impressed by this boat when I saw her on Cherbourg's quay. Do you think it's possible to open the hull door ?
Très beau travail.
Hi Midori - Yes, it is possible and one chap we know has done just that....both the bow and the stern. I will try and find some photos.
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I think I know what I'll be buying next O0 O0 lovely work Brian and well done for seeing it through it looks a fantastic kit