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[Nordlys]

There are any number of Riva models for sale on Ebay as made up static models labelled
as  "ready for R/c" conversion.
Has anyone attempted/ achieved this conversion or has any opinion as to whether
it might be worthwhile, bearing in mind that these boats sell for upwards of £250
without motor or any Electrics?
Nordlys.

[Brian Roberts]

Hello Nordlys
I've had no experience with static ready made Riva models, but I've built two from Amati kits. If you would care to go down this route you'll find the experience very satisfying and end up with a super looking model and you'll be proud to say 'I built that'.
Brian

[boatmadman]

Hi
A member of our club did one of these conversions.  The access was extremely difficult for rudders.
The hull looked great but was far too heavy and contained a lot of mdf.
He has not been able to get it to perform as it should, he is on limited buget but spent a lot on brushless hardware.
I am not saying it cant be done just dont think it will be easy.
Ian

[Netleyned]

If the MDF is built in it will be impossible to seal the edges.
and we know what unsealed MDF does when it is in a
damp environment

Ned

[tugs62]

I bought one to convert but its started to spilt in a few placers along the deck i will put some pictures on later
if i can sort it out i was going to twin prop it

[Martin (Admin)]

...and some of them are Very heavy!

[Nordlys]

I am aware that rudder access on some of these models is very poor
and only designed for the static variety unless one is prepared to cut
away part of stern deck. Not very appealing on such an expensive investment.

Most static models are built without prop tubes fitted I believe, which involves
re-varnishing etc!
Didn't know about the MDF being used, that's a bit off putting.
I will take a look at the Amati kit though if these are any better? -thanks.
N

[Brian Roberts]

There's definitely no MDF in the Amati kit, only top quality laser cut ply.
Brian

[Nordlys]

I see that this kit includes additional instructions for the R/c model build from Westbourne's at
£348 - Phew!
I'm wavering here.
Nord.

[essex2visuvesi]

I bought one of the Vietnamese Riva models with a veiw to making it RC
Its a nice looking model, but as other have said the internal framework is MDF so not really suitable for use on water
Also mine has started to crack and split

[vnkiwi]

The Vietnamese models, the Riva amongst them are not suitable for use as RC models. (even the ones stated as suitable, and/or sold with motors and rc fitted).
They are (there are exceptions and various manufacturers), nice display models, the finish is usually polyurethane, but they are constructed with tropical hardwood, and in some cases MDF. Hardwoods are very susceptable to shrinkage. They have no finish internally, untreated hardwood, and if gets water inside, the wood will expand and shrink.
The hardwood also means they are very heavy.
I have a number of them, and have disassembled one of them to gain some insight as to suitability for RC conversion, and concluded its not really a viable easy conversion. If they are all sealed (and this means pretty much complete disassembly and rebuild) then if the weight is allowed for, then maybe they would last, and be impressive on the water.
It pains me to say all that, as I have a close association with the country and travel there on a regular basis to visit friends and family.
They are designed and built for display only.
Hope this helps a little.
cheers
vnkiwi

[Nordlys]

Your investigations and conclusions pretty much persuade me, I'm pleased to say,
that I won't be getting involved with any of these models.

I was always puzzled by the interest shown by those in Vietnam selling these models
and although 'static model' appears in some offers on Ebay  'R/c conversion' is also mentioned.

Thanks Vn an enlightening post, I'm glad I got round to posting about this on Mayhem.
Nordlys...