Model Boat Mayhem
The Shipyard ( Dry Dock ): Builds & Questions => Working Vessels => Topic started by: Tug-Kenny RIP on July 31, 2014, 12:55:48 pm
-
As per the title, my quest, as set by my good lady wife, is to produce a boat without spending ANY money. %) %) %)
So, she says to me, .......... surely, with all those spare parts in your workshop, you must be able to make a boat of some sort without going to the shops..
Break point there while I have a lie down and think it all out.
:}
-
I have now been through my spares boxes and cobbled together all the bits I think I might need for a scale 1:32 TUG.
First find was a tug hull in the loft. Not sure where all this stuff comes from but it's been stored, Just in case I might need it.
-
This now sets the scale and shape of all things to follow it's fitting.
The build started with making a frame to sit the boat on. By using plywood and glue and a bit of piano felt we came up with a stand.
-
Turned up the other way, it could double as a piano stool for a tiny person. {-) {-)
Here is is all painted and tried out for size on the empty hull.
-
Getting to work on the hull, we drilled out the prop shaft hole at 4mm and loosely ran the tube through to line up a 900 motor. (yes, must have had some money at one time !!)
The base unit for the motor was constructed and a 7 A/hr battery box was fitted behind the motor frame. We also took into consideration the curved base of the hull and made a matching curve on the base unit to allow for a secure and sturdy fixing to the hull with apoxy when the time comes.
-
Here it is sitting in place. Remember, I haven't started fixing anything down yet as it's all design on the fly (as they say)
-
I forgot to mention the side band supports all around the inside edge of the tug. These were made from strips of 4mm plywood and epoxied in with two and three layers to make up the width and ease of bending.
Then it was onto the decks. These were first made in cardboard to get the shape and then transferred to plywood for cutting.
First, the rear section was fitted and matching holes inserted to allow access for motor fitting and wiring to take place. Edges were then glued on to hold the cabin in place.
-
The same thing was made with the bow section and a step fitted for two different heights.
-
An interesting thread this - tagging along to see what kind of superstructure you develop :-))
Regards,
Ray.
-
Hello Captain. Thank you for your interest.
Cabin coming right up Sir. I do have an awful lot of off-cuts of all materials so it was 'on to the cabin'.
I decided weight might be important so I've opted for plastic sheet. It's easier to cut and bend about, and is my favourite anyway.
I know this blog appears to be fast but in reality, I have been working on it for some time now and had not thought of a build blog until 'Er indoors' said it might be a good idea. %)
Here is my version of the cabin in 2mm plastic.
-
Here's a view of it on the deck.
-
I've found an old drain pipe with a lovely ridged top which I thought 'might come in handy one day'.
After several cuts, by gradually shortening it, I've come up with a funnel.
Dramatic huh !!
-
Well there we are at the moment. O0
We are back in the workshop and getting ready for an Epoxy moment.
Cheers for now
ken
-
With such a magnificent funnel, a steam plant surely Ken {-) {-) %%
At this rate it will be on the water by teatime :-)) :-))
Great to see the thinking of The Missus
Ned
-
Now THAT is what I call a challenge! And well done for rising to the occasion, Ken!
A fascinating build log...keep it coming!
Rich
(PS...I take it there's a pile of house points on the way?)
-
RE: Not sure where all this stuff comes from but it's been stored, Just in case I might need it. ..which we are ALL guilty of doing... O0
Frank
-
And now he NEEDS it,
So we can all keep some now!!
Bob
-
If it costs nowt to build
Will it sell for nowt :embarrassed: :embarrassed: :embarrassed: :embarrassed:
Ned
-
We should get this topic pinned, so when our better halves start asking us to part with our goodies we have saved up, we can show them this. ;)
-
Very cool :-)) I'll be watching.
Mark
-
Evening all. Very kind comments. :-)) Thank you very much.
I think I've done it for myself now. Today I took her shopping (nothing frivolous...only food) but on our return I was able to to continue with " Project Tug Christine". O0
Cheers
ken
-
Must agree with Ned........that funnel is a steam funnel O0...BTW...is Mrs Churchill's christian name ....Christine? {-) {-) {-) ... Derek
-
If it is Derek, he's earning double points!
-
As per the title, my quest, as set by my good lady wife, is to produce a boat without spending ANY money. %) %) %)
So, she says to me, .......... surely, with all those spare parts in your workshop, you must be able to make a boat of some sort without going to the shops..
Break point there while I have a lie down and think it all out. :}
Having been through something similar it is futile, time consuming, pointless etc the list goes on, to reason with such logic.
The correct response being, "Yes dear."
-
I had a quieter day today. Now able to get on with boat with regular cups of tea turning up now and again.. :}
i have marked out and drilled and sanded the portholes and square windows to the wheelhouse.
-
I have also found a thinner pipe for the funnel. It's cut a bit over length at the moment because I want it to look right when the wheelhouse is finished.
The prop shaft and tube were cut down to 6 inches to fit comfortably with the motor at the correct slight angle. The whole lot was bedded in with epoxy and weights applied.
Blue tack was jammed in to prevent the epoxy running away down into the bilge.
-
The rear deck was cut out to allow for the rudder adjustments at a later stage. A little cover was made to go over the top and seal it from water ingress.
Do you like the 'Girly coloured' cutting mat. {-)
Ken
-
You may have lost brownie points for "borrowing" her cutting mat. %)
But you should still be up by 1!
-
Even more points as I've got it dirty and scratched. {:-{
Ken
-
Blue tack was jammed in to prevent the epoxy running away down into the bilge.
Now, there's a good idea O0
Does the blue tack come away clean once the epoxy has hardened off ?
Regards,
Ray.
-
Does the blue tack come away clean once the epoxy has hardened off ?
I used blutac as a dam for epoxy many years ago and it was pretty messy. The glue and tac seemed to react to a sticky mess for a mm or two into the tac. The body of the glue set up fine, but it was a bit messy getting the tac off. I had deliberately left excess glue which needed to be cut and filed off to my final shape, so it didn't affect the end result, but I wouldn't try and use it for precision casting like you do (eg) with sand for metal.
Of course different epoxy and 'blutac' makes and types may produce different reactions, or none at all. No doubt Ken will be able to add to that soon :-)
-
Similar thing happened to me using a dam made from plasticine, couldn't get it off where it "blended" with the epoxy.
I've heard a hot glue gun works for this, and epoxy doesn't stick to it, but haven't tried it.
Just don't get the hot glue gun dirty and scratched, you'll lose points. O0
-
I haven't been out to look this morning yet, but will report on these latest comments.
Luckily, looks don't really matter this low down in the hull. It never occurred to me the two compounds might weld together.
ken
-
There's one sure fire way to find out, Ken...and you'll be finding out very soon, methinks. ;D
Rich
-
You are absolutely right, it doesn't matter, it is on the inside, and hidden by the shaft.
And if the Mrs. notices, you can say you were out of the proper stuff, and that was all you had. {-)
Keep up the good work it reminds me a lot of scratchbuilding when I was a kid, and didn't have any money. They always turned out (for better or worse).
-
It came out very well. :-))
The edges do mingle with the epoxy so a bit of judicious chiseling cleared it all away. It looks quite acceptable and would be appear to be the way to do it.
Today I made a barn door rudder and located and secured the steering servo. Pictures to follow.
ken
-
Hmmm - wonder what would happen if you put clingfilm between the blue tack and the glue - I'll have a go at some time in the near future :D
Regards,
Ray.
-
That would work, have used cling film many times as a barrier. Waxed paper works as well. Scotch tape (I think it is referred to as cello tape outside North America) works very well, the best part is neither epoxy nor polyester resin will stick to either side, which makes it ideal for fixing holes.
-
Guys......plain old PVC electricians tape is also OK for the barrier with epoxy not adhering or sticking to the tape when cured :o
Question ......if Scotland succeeds from Britain/UK will they need to rename Scotch tape? {-) .... Derek
-
Electricians tape also works, but the scotch tape releases easier from the cured resin.
-
Here is a picture of tube surrounded with epoxy. It came out quite clean in the end.
-
Onwards to the Wheelhouse section. I've also made the rudder cover for the deck.
-
I have made a bulkhead under the deck and drilled out a slot for the steering servo. The deck is not secured at the moment, but when it is, i shall be able to remove the servo up under.
-
The rudder was made with a brass tube to which was glued and pinned with 2 mm plastic. I then added some ribs.
-
My favourite part ........................................ {-)
it was time to spray the lot with Red Oxide. I do love this part as it covers so well and easy to apply and does not run.
I sprayed everything I could see and it was dry in 15 minutes.
-
Here are a few close up shots for the fun of it.
One general question............... Do you think I need a mast ??
-
Well there we are at the moment. Not a penny spent " This time". but financially , all the parts were once purchased and not used so the costs are actually there. I prefer not to think about this as I'm going to have to raid other boats for things i will need to get her sailing.
Thanks for watching.................. next section is to glue it all down and wire it up. %)
Cheers
ken
-
:-))
Mark
-
yes you defo need a mast
Who forgot to spray the gunnels .......... :D O0 {-) {-) {-) {-) {-)
Dave........running for cover
-
he is on a budget, the paint wont run that far up, that's next coat
david
-
Who forgot to spray the gunnels .......... (http://www.modelboatmayhem.co.uk/forum/Smileys/Tug/cheesy.gif) (http://www.modelboatmayhem.co.uk/forum/Smileys/Tug/smiley.gif) (http://www.modelboatmayhem.co.uk/forum/Smileys/Tug/grin.gif) (http://www.modelboatmayhem.co.uk/forum/Smileys/Tug/grin.gif) (http://www.modelboatmayhem.co.uk/forum/Smileys/Tug/grin.gif) (http://www.modelboatmayhem.co.uk/forum/Smileys/Tug/grin.gif) (http://www.modelboatmayhem.co.uk/forum/Smileys/Tug/grin.gif)
Thank you Stav........ I noticed that when I temporarily fitted it all together. I've thought of an excuse..... I shall be gluing the stanchions on so will need a clean surface. :}
Right then, a mast it is.
Cheers
ken
-
Not being a tugger, is it actually a tug or a Red fireboat %) %) %)
-
It is rather red isn't it. :}
Today I tapered the mast and hollowed out a groove for the wires. I've fitted some white LED's and tested them OK, so I sealed up the groove and took a few pictures.
-
very nice
-
Cheers Cuppa. Hope your feeling better. ok2
Today I painted all the woodwork. I had some tug colour left over from the Imara build, so it was out with the brush.
The rudder tube was fitted last night and had dried quite solid so I assembled it tried it for size.
(this is the second time I've tried to post pictures tonight and they failed to load, so I've loaded the text first and hope to load the pictures second)
-
Well that worked............
The first time I tried loading all three pictures at once, the site shut down on me with all sorts of messages. This time I tried it one at a time and got away with it. %)
-
Bulwarks time
For these I have cut out separate bulwarks from a 2mm plastic sheet. These were then superglued into the inside edge of the boat and left to harden overnight.
The following day, the plastic hand rail rail was bent under heat and given a liberal coating of Epoxy mix. It was taped and stuck down on top of the bulwarks and the whole boat was inverted to allow the runny epoxy to distribute itself up under the rail, thus making a very secure joint to the hull and bulwark tops.
-
RE: project tug "christine" BTW...is Mrs Churchill's christian name ....Christine? (http://www.modelboatmayhem.co.uk/forum/Smileys/Tug/grin.gif) (http://www.modelboatmayhem.co.uk/forum/Smileys/Tug/grin.gif) (http://www.modelboatmayhem.co.uk/forum/Smileys/Tug/grin.gif) ... Derek
Mrs Churchill was called clementine......but` there was a car called "christine" a red-and-white 1958 Plymouth Fury....wot killed people sure you all remember it was a Horror Film from 1983 O0
Frank.
(http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj138/farticus1/ChristineSoundtrack_zps34d7784c.jpg)
(http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj138/farticus1/ChristinePoster_zpsf4f5b6dd.jpg)
-
Yes, I remember the film. I enjoyed it very much. My lady Christine actually sends me out to the workshop most days. %) :} :} I suppose 47 years is quite enough for anyone.
Just come in suffering from overwork and knackered. I shall convert the films and post up soon.
ken
-
Yippee... the pictures are working this time.
I have cut the washboard hole into the sides of the deck area and was going for doors. This seemed a lot of work to cover up the holes I'd just made, so I gone for slats across the openings.
-
I have made a secure bracket under the towing hook and fitted it to an arm. At the moment the raised curved supports are not affixed as I shall need something a bit stronger than the hollow plastic tube.
-
Next section to do is the wiring. I had to order my first part and it was a speed controller, which arrived today so I have the parts ready to assemble.
Here's a few overall views to show the progress.
-
I have made a secure bracket under the towing hook and fitted it to an arm. At the moment the raised curved supports are not affixed as I shall need something a bit stronger than the hollow plastic tube.
Ken,
Try putting some thick copper wire through the tube, or maybe some brass rod - if you can get any.
Barrie
-
Brilliant idea Barrie, I could bend some tubes like i did on the Severn and that would be up to the job.
I was planning to make some small railings anyway, so I'll get the blow torch out now.
Cheers matey
ken
-
Ken,
Its not an original idea - pinched from a Deans Marine kit %)
Barrie
-
Wired up my new Chinese speed controller today (yes, I know, but that was all they had in the shop) so at least it's under guarantee. %) 50 amps mmmmmmmmh !!!!
I was amazed to record a draw of 1.9 amps at top speed on the bench test. Hopefully she should be OK on the water. I did notice they don't 'whine' as much as the usual ones, which was a surprise. Also, they come with a switch which I can use to switch the boat on and off as the only other electrics is the rudder servo. (at the moment). I'll use another switch when I get around to wiring the lights.
Nearly time for a float test. %%
Cheers
Ken
-
I have bent some tube and epoxied them with some nuts into place. They are really firm now.
Now noticed the paint was beginning to crack off the cabin so I've sanded it all off and will start again. The surface has been cleaned and prep'd with plastic primer. The wheelhouse windows now have surrounds fitted and await glazing.
-
I've asked the Boss what colour would she like and the reply was light blue.....
-
I have also hand carved a lifeboat from a solid piece of timber.
-
Here's a few views looking around the boat.
-
Looking darned good there Ken :-)) :-)) :-)) :-)) O0 O0 O0 O0 O0 O0 O0 O0 O0
Dave
-
Thank you Stav,
It floats Ok in the test tank and is ready to launch......... nearly %)
cheers
ken
-
Nearly finished today. Must keep something back as 'She' keeps sending me out to the workshop every day. {-) {-)
I've fitted a few extras found in spares boxes and it really livens up the "Lady Christine".
All in all, this craft has cost me not much more than £50 in new money. However.... the costs of all the pieces gathered have probably cost a lot more when you add them up. %)
Here's a run around with the camera ...............
-
Some close ups ...................
-
Just noticed the side lights haven't been done yet. %) I fancy putting a radar unit on the wheelhouse roof. What's the best type of design for a tug ?
Nearly there. Might try a little sail tomorrow.
Ken
-
What a cheerful looking tug!
Nice one Ken,
-
That looks great O0 Nice one Ken :-))
Peter.
-
Thanks fellas. :}
You can probably guess that I didn't pick the colour. Must admit, I rather like it now. No sailing today as grandchildren call. %) I'll try some waterborne photos soon.
Cheers
ken
-
I've just returned from the lake.
Wow, it was lovely now the children are back in school and the sun was out. Glorious afternoon. I had to put a few stones into the hull to balance her out and she went like a train. The 900 motor was certainly overkill.. I will be changing it for something more sedate as i have plenty of spares still left in the boxes.
Here's a few pictures on the water. I will be the rest of night making the YouTube film.
Cheers
ken
-
She certainly looks the part Kenny - well done :-))
Regards,
Ray.
-
Looks good to me :-)) .
Mark
-
Thanks Guys, it certainly was a pleasant afternoon.
I met a lone yachtsman with his sail boat on the water. Due to the lack of wind , that was the end of his sail, so I invited him to take my radio and have a try. I think we have a convert. He then held the camera whilst I motored about like a young-un trying to make a movie. %)
Made me want to make something else now. :-))
Cheers
ken
-
;) & Ken says........ "I met a lone yachtsman with his sail boat on the water" ....so was his name Sir Francis ..... of the Chichester? {-)........ Derek
-
I originally walked up the lake with the dog and you're right. He was the 'Only' yachtsman there. I wish I'd got his name now. It was so quiet and serene but I was able to shatter that when I returned by car with my noisy tug. :}
I did a scan of the lake with the movie and it really is a nice place. I'm still working on the YouTube film but it will be out soon.
night night Derek
Ken
-
Ken you say the 900 is overkill I say NOT ...why ....well you dont buy a ferrari and drive it flat out do you.
Have you forgotten that the throttle is variable and not an off/on switch {-) {-) {-)
Seriously the power you have would be ideal for tug towing O0 O0 O0
Dave
-
Hi Dave,
Whilst I agree with you in theory, in actual practice it was moderately difficult to go 'very slowly'. She is fitted with a 4 blade 60mm prop and a cr**p Chinese speed controller, so when underway she was pulling from the off. I managed to create a 'bow wave' the like of which has not been seen on our lake, ever . When I've put up the film you will see what I mean.
I recon if I had a rope to the shore and connected it to the car, I could have moved it. :} :}
Another feature which became noticeable was then when throttling down from speed, the boat tended to pull severely to the right. I figured this might be due to the 4 blades stopped in the water and causing a turn effect with the curvature of the blades ??
The obvious solution is to gear down the motor. The thrust would be still be considerable but slower. The stability is very tender and she can rock from side to side. The captain could go water skiing. {-)
ken
-
Video is now up on YouTube.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hXIBITo6CfY&feature=youtu.be
enjoy
ken
-
1st Point....get that motor aligned up properly you can hear it rattling on the video
2nd Point you NEED a lot more BALLAST as it seems there is a lot of weight topsides
3rd Point ....go and try it AGAIN......motor is spot on for that tug
Dave
-
Cheers Dave,
I've been talking to Stan and we conclude the Chinese speed controller is actually rubbish. I did a bench test and gradual acceleration is not in their vocabulary. %) There is NO pull away acceleration. It starts at half revolutions (on the bench) and it's stop or run half speed. aeghhhhhhhhhhhh!
The motor is screwed to a plywood board which is acting like a drum. I will be keeping it after some mods to the balance are done.
Must go now as the President of the USA is due past my door soon and the crowds are building up. {-) {-)
Ken
-
Cheers Dave,
Must go now as the President of the USA is due past my door soon and the crowds are building up. {-) {-)
Ken
Hi Ken - i hope you flagged his motorcade down and invited him in to see your models!
-
He couldn't stop. :} :}
ken
-
You've gotten closer than I ever had :-)) .
Mark
-
love the tug..just shows what can be done on a small budget and lots of know how...our lake does,nt have pretty fish like that...got to be the welsh water.....well done tony