Model Boat Mayhem

Technical, Techniques, Hints, and Tips => Other Technical Questions... => Topic started by: rats on December 02, 2006, 02:54:54 pm

Title: Bow Thrusters
Post by: rats on December 02, 2006, 02:54:54 pm

Can anyone recommend a good powerful bow thruster suitable for a 46 inch tug ?  I have never used one before but all the reviews I have read of models that have them fitted generally seem to express dissatisfaction with the output. If not any idea how to make one - the design must be easy enough just a matter of sealing the tube from boat !

   thanks in advance  rats

Title: Re: Bow Thrusters
Post by: Scottie on December 02, 2006, 03:21:12 pm

I've used the Graupner one in my 53" ro/ro ferry, it's a bit noisy but pushes her around well enough.
I've bought a Robbe one for the 7 1/2 foot container ship I'm building, Mark at AMW said it was more powerful than the Graupner but I can't confirm that yet.

Hope this helps,

Scottie

Title: Re: Bow Thrusters
Post by: rats on December 02, 2006, 03:32:14 pm

 Thanks for reply Scottie,  as I understand it Robbe do two bow thrusters one of which is a twin screw but they are using plastic props can you confirm that ?
  cheers rats

Title: Re: Bow Thrusters
Post by: Scottie on December 02, 2006, 03:38:00 pm

Hi Rats,

Sorry, I can't confirm. The one I have is a 'paddle' type, not propellor type.

Scottie.

Title: Re: Bow Thrusters
Post by: Tug-Kenny RIP on December 02, 2006, 05:52:25 pm

I also have the Robbe 'Paddle' type, but have not tried it yet.

Just a note to remember that they have short tubes and need to be fitted closer to the bow. I did not want to do this, so I made longer tubes. It will be a while before I can try it out though.
Hope this helps


Cheers...Ken

Title: Re: Bow Thrusters
Post by: 17-21 on December 02, 2006, 06:21:44 pm

I fitted the robbe one in my Lifeboat it was no good, this maybe due to the lifeboats size so I got a new one from the Model dock yard part Number M75112 its not cheap but it works well, and has two props just like the real ones.

As far as i know Robbe are no longer making the prop type bow thruster.



17-21

Phil.

Title: Re: Bow Thrusters
Post by: portside II on December 04, 2006, 04:19:04 pm

 ;DHi there i have the robbie prop type thruster in brakengarth and at 42" ,half a ton (it feel's like that) it pushes her around great now that i have fitteda decent motor in .
the onlt prob is the noise ,but if you can put up with that fine.
I also have the new paddle type fitted in metcalf mouldings Greamsey but dont know what its like as it's not been wet yet.
hope this helps
Daz

Title: Re: Bow Thrusters
Post by: rats on December 04, 2006, 05:30:56 pm

  thanks for all replies the Marx Luder from Model Dockyard looks impressive - cheers 17-21
                  rats

Title: Re: Bow Thrusters
Post by: ministeve on December 04, 2006, 09:04:57 pm

hi rats if u useing tug for towing u might like to fit one of these ive made plenty for the lads in our club at ellsmearport if u need details on how to build one just ask they will dock a 14 foot ship with ease

Title: Re: Bow Thrusters
Post by: rats on December 04, 2006, 09:16:09 pm

 Thanks ministeve have sent you PM
         rats

Title: Re: Bow Thrusters
Post by: ministeve on December 05, 2006, 10:55:04 pm

hi rats i seem to be haveing probs seeing pm try just emailing me on " ministeve72@aol.com "

Title: Re: Bow Thrusters
Post by: rp6705 on December 06, 2006, 03:11:48 pm

Have you tried a couple of wiper/washer motors, i used two in my Norderney and they are very powerful and a lot cheaper than Robbe/Graupner.

Title: Re: Bow Thrusters
Post by: Subculture on December 07, 2006, 11:05:08 am

You can use centrifugal pumps, they really shift water.

You will need two as they're not reversible, but they're only about £12 each, so still cheaper than the Graupner thrusters.

http://www.leisureshopdirect.com/caravan/water/reich_pumps.aspx