Model Boat Mayhem

The Shipyard ( Dry Dock ): Builds & Questions => Working Vessels => Topic started by: dhb141 on January 03, 2012, 11:41:57 am

Title: Small Tug
Post by: dhb141 on January 03, 2012, 11:41:57 am
Although I've posted on the forum before, it's been about yachts but this is the first time about tugs.   At the moment, I'm converting a Seaport Workboat into a 'steam' tug (details when it's finished!) but after that I'm looking to make a fairly detailed  tug, under 24", and wondered about the Deans Marine 'Seaman' or 'Empire Susan'.   Has anyone built one of these and can tell me what they're like?   I realise that being small, their sailing qualities will probably be limited but I'm prepared to accept that if they sail reasonably well in calm conditions.   Any comments would be gratefully received.

Don
Title: Small tug
Post by: longshanks on April 14, 2012, 11:21:17 pm
Hi,

Anyone out there know of a small (12 " ) vac formed tug hull being manufactured. Looking for something on the lines that George Turner used to do - grand children !!  %%
Title: Re: Small tug
Post by: john s 2 on April 15, 2012, 01:56:41 am
Pesonally i feel that a boat the size your looking for is a bit on the small size,as its challenging to get everything in a small Hull. Have you thought about converting a childrens toy boat? Playmobil sell some that float as an example. These types of boat are colourful and appeal to youngsters and are strong enough to take the knocks that can occur. Its nice to know that they are getting an interest in boats. John.
Title: Re: Small tug
Post by: Norseman on April 15, 2012, 03:51:34 am
Hi Longshanks

Maybe not for the grandkids but this little tug has a charm http://rcmb.forumotion.com/t306-small-tug-sir-gilbert

Dave
Title: Re: Small tug
Post by: vnkiwi on April 15, 2012, 03:54:53 am
HI,
I know its not a vac formed plastic hull, but why not try a mini-springer. For myself i found the 18" std springer a bit big, so designed and built my own at 12" long.
That's 66% size. They are very easy and quick to make, mine all balsa, but any cheap ply and scrap wood can be used, just seal / paint it well, and it will withstand any sort of abuse.
Mine uses an off the shelf motor, coupler, shaft and prop from the local hobby shop, can run on anything from 4.8 to 7.2 NiMH rechargeables, and I use a very cheap 2.4Ghz 4-channel r/c unit.
Springer plans are free, and you design whatever you want in the way of superstructure.
Simples
cheers
vnkiwi
Title: Re: Small tug
Post by: Martin (Admin) on April 15, 2012, 08:44:15 am
There was a simple plans built tug in Model Boats...
Title: Re: Small tug
Post by: Dreadstar on April 15, 2012, 08:50:47 am
The SHG King Midas tug may be a little big for you then,at 18" long,but she is a vac-formed model. :-)
Title: Re: Small tug
Post by: vnkiwi on April 15, 2012, 08:56:07 am
What a neat little tug Martin.
Missed that one, don't see Model Boats, as get MMI by subscription.
Will have to see about getting that one, very nice.
cheers
vnkiwi
Title: Re: Small tug
Post by: dodgy geezer on April 15, 2012, 10:15:33 am
The eezebilt Otter tug is 10 3/4" long. Here is a picture (scroll down) - free plans elsewhere on the site. Our Kiwi friend is looking to improve it somewhat...

http://modelboats.hobby-site.com/Range.html (http://modelboats.hobby-site.com/Range.html)
Title: Re: Small tug
Post by: Mad_Mike on April 15, 2012, 11:29:04 am
how about this, look at the small hull at the bottom:

http://www.orionmouldings.com/varioushulls.htm
Title: Re: Small tug
Post by: Netleyned on April 15, 2012, 11:39:18 am
What's wrong
with a Dickie?

Two foot long and my Grandchildren love the one I've converted for them.



http://www.modelboatmayhem.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=10945.0

Ned



Title: Re: Small tug
Post by: bwmarks on April 15, 2012, 02:31:44 pm
Here is a nice, inexpensive kit

http://www.vac-u-boat.com/Vacutug.htm
Title: Re: Small tug
Post by: HUNTER on April 15, 2012, 03:29:45 pm
You could also look at our 12 inch vac formed, low priced boat kits at www.huntersystems.co.uk
Graham
Title: Re: Small tug
Post by: Capt Podge on April 15, 2012, 04:34:14 pm
Don't know if this one is still around in the shops or not: Graupner "Pollux" kit. Comes complete with geared motor, proptube/shaft and rudder.
Cost was about £25.
I've modified this one slightly coz I don't like black "stick-on" windows ! >>:-(
Mods: Cut out bridge windows and glazed. Drilled out portholes and left unglazed for airflow. Cut out scuttles for deckwash, added a crew (ex Airfix E-boat crew) some cordage, tyres for fenders and a towing hook.
All the running gear is standard - nothing miniature in this little baby !   %%

(http://s11.postimage.org/4sqwjoyjz/Mondo_001.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/4sqwjoyjz/)
(http://s16.postimage.org/mq79j6bm9/Mondo_002.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/mq79j6bm9/)
(http://s17.postimage.org/ipc87imdn/Home_for_the_Winter_026.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/ipc87imdn/)
(http://s14.postimage.org/hpsv1uqvh/Home_for_the_Winter_029.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/hpsv1uqvh/)

Image 4 is a bit blurred but is as follows: From the left - geared motor, rudder servo, 6v 1.2amp/hr battery, 27mhz rx on a plastic shelf above, Mtronics speed controller.

This little tug actually tows another plastic kit: SHG's "Saucy Sue" trawler, which is another possible starter for the young 'uns.


(http://s16.postimage.org/g6w1na5w1/Aaron_Dee_001.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/g6w1na5w1/)

(http://s13.postimage.org/uy0vs0zv7/Aaron_Dee_002.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/uy0vs0zv7/)

(http://s17.postimage.org/5uw9ekwcr/Aaron_Dee_004.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/5uw9ekwcr/)

(http://s7.postimage.org/vyv5hemxj/Home_for_the_Winter_031.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/vyv5hemxj/)

(http://s13.postimage.org/tqmxzt9qr/Home_for_the_Winter_037.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/tqmxzt9qr/)

Regards,

Ray.
Title: Re: Small tug
Post by: vnkiwi on April 15, 2012, 08:22:30 pm
Here's the Eezebilt 'Otter', awaiting some brass tube etc to make the prop and shaft
The other boats in the range would be a goer for you as well
cheers
vnkiwi
Title: Re: Small tug
Post by: Martin (Admin) on April 15, 2012, 10:29:39 pm
Another one...
Title: Re: Small tug
Post by: Martin (Admin) on April 15, 2012, 10:46:20 pm
Waverly Models!

http://www.waverleymodels.co.uk/GALLERY.asp (http://www.waverleymodels.co.uk/GALLERY.asp)

(http://s16.postimage.org/twv9kw7dd/P1040094.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/twv9kw7dd/)

(http://s15.postimage.org/bmlfzs2mf/Mk2_Tug_006.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/bmlfzs2mf/)
Title: Re: Small tug
Post by: longshanks on April 15, 2012, 10:52:31 pm
Wow !!

What can I say............spoilt for choice.

Thanks very much guys, plenty of food for thought here.  :-))
Title: Re: Small tug
Post by: vnkiwi on April 15, 2012, 11:16:53 pm
Cool little tugs Martin.
Wonder if I can slip them in between my other builds?
No time, so much to do.
Oh well.
cheers
vnkiwi O0
Title: Re: Small tug
Post by: longshanks on April 16, 2012, 10:33:22 pm
Hi Martin,

Checked out your suggestion of MB 's Thomas - what a great idea!

Cut 5 pieces of plastic card, glue them together and you have a hull !!!!

I think this is the route I shall be taking for speed and cost. I have no doubt when No 2 grandson see s No 1 boat etc etc.

I think I will give some thought to replacing the superstructure with something more modern.

Once again thank you to everyone s suggestions
Title: Re: Small tug
Post by: steve pickstock on May 30, 2012, 08:44:23 am
This might also be useful to people

http://www.amera.co.uk/product.php?range=w

a picture of the hull and other parts
http://www.amera.co.uk/images.php?p=W103&d=Tug&c=2&i=1

Additional info:

An exciting new range of model boats. Made of white high impact polystyrene, these kits require minimal building experience, and can be completed in a very short time.

They are an ideal base for further detailing with commercially available accessories. The kits come with all parts to make the model as shown, with detailed instructions and photographs. The model can be used as a static model, or a small electric motor can be fitted. It is even large enough for small radio control, but note that these items are not included.

You will need limited tools to construct (a sharp craft knife, glass paper, paint and styrene glue), and scrap peices of wood to complete the models.

These items are supplied in matt white polystyrene, ready for painting and decorating as required. Please note that some of our images now show the items after painting and decoration.

Click on any image for further views
W103 Tug
View larger image of Tug    Model of a Tug. The kit comes with all parts to make the boat, comprising; vacuum formed parts, rudder tube, and well detailed instructions and photographs
Dimensions: 35cm x 11.5 cm
Title: Re: Small tug
Post by: Norseman on May 31, 2012, 05:53:27 am
There was a simple plans built tug in Model Boats...

I bought the mag on flea bay - but no plans inside - oh silly me O0 {-)

Dave
Title: Re: Small tug
Post by: Martin (Admin) on May 31, 2012, 10:01:13 am
I bought the mag on flea bay - but no plans inside - oh silly me O0 {-)

Dave

I have them if you want them.   :-))
Title: Re: Small tug
Post by: tony52 on June 02, 2012, 07:58:11 pm
The next edition of Model Boats magazine (July 2012 on sale June 8th), has an item/special feature on a miniature radio controlled tug - Motor Tug Rana.
Title: Small Tug
Post by: longshanks on June 04, 2012, 08:06:43 am
Further to my request for ideas for building grandchildren a tug I thought you would like to see the outcome.


(http://s16.postimage.org/6jq71c375/DSCF6062.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/6jq71c375/)

All the pieces came out of a sheet of 1mm thick plastic 625 x 225mm

Two hours later I had a hull !! Thats what I call a quick build.


(http://s16.postimage.org/8kpxdne41/DSCF6086.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/8kpxdne41/)


(http://s15.postimage.org/5cd6bvaxz/DSCF6088.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/5cd6bvaxz/)


(http://s13.postimage.org/ryqatywbn/DSCF6087.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/ryqatywbn/)

The only thing I did different from the article was to use plastic rod to reinforce the joints. The article in MB suggest using  'goopy ' liquid poly
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: Tug Fanatic on June 04, 2012, 01:50:07 pm
Good - always interested in builds with piccies.
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: Martin (Admin) on June 04, 2012, 02:18:17 pm

 Which plans are you using?     :-))
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: Tug Fanatic on June 04, 2012, 03:00:10 pm
Looks like a Thomas to me. Cute.  :-))  

How has this ended up as two threads in two different sections of the forum?  Choice of model is in "Tugs & Towing" & the build is in "Working Vessels". It doesn't seem quite logical.
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: Martin (Admin) on June 04, 2012, 03:07:48 pm
Fair enough, where do you think they should they be and we'll merge and move the topics?

 Martin  :-)
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: Tug Fanatic on June 04, 2012, 04:00:05 pm
It isn't my thread & I am anxious not to highjack it but I would have thought "Tugs & Towing" although there is a conflict in my mind about the difference between "Working Vessels" which explicitly includes tugs and "Tugs & Towing" which is obviously also about Tugs.

I cannot see how, in practice, Tug items included in the two sections are different. What do you see as the difference between tug topics in the two sections?

Please don't let anything that I have said put longshanks off continuing with the build.  O0
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: longshanks on June 04, 2012, 11:26:29 pm
I'm using the free Thomas plan from Model Boats December 2004. So easy !

The relevant templates can be scanned and printed with A3 scanner/printer which I'm lucky enough to have.

Sorry for the confusion of posting, went to post on original post and found that Martin had moved it. I hope to be posting further
pics on the build so perhaps you can sort it Martin.  :-))

It is not my intention to follow the original superstructure. I'm going more on the lines George Turner used to produce.


(http://s16.postimage.org/dfvsranch/Tug_7.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/dfvsranch/)
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: Martin (Admin) on June 05, 2012, 02:31:40 pm
I'll merge them here for now.

 Carry on with your build Longshanks, very interested.   :-))
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: Norseman on June 05, 2012, 03:37:07 pm
Thanks Martin for the tug file - much appreciated.
I'll have a punt at it soon.

Dave
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: longshanks on June 06, 2012, 07:52:56 am
Deck fitted and openings made for cabin and rudder access. It was found necessary to fit
a beam in this case light ply to stop the deck sagging.


(http://s14.postimage.org/jvti4u3fh/DSCF6863.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/jvti4u3fh/)

Start made on the coamings. These have been increased in height as I'm working to a scale of 1/24.
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: longshanks on June 07, 2012, 08:07:48 am
I like four day weekends  :-))


(http://s7.postimage.org/gq4jgoasn/DSCF6859.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/gq4jgoasn/)


(http://s18.postimage.org/g7x7lb579/DSCF6860.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/g7x7lb579/)


(http://s15.postimage.org/c3c14f4jb/DSCF6861.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/c3c14f4jb/)
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: Norseman on June 07, 2012, 10:38:41 am
Positively flying along there - looks good Longshanks O0

Dave
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: Tug Fanatic on June 07, 2012, 11:57:34 am
Looking good.  :-)

Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: longshanks on June 08, 2012, 10:26:26 pm
A few more additions.

Bulwark cutouts, hatch over rudder linkage, towing posts & funnel detail.

In the second pic I have shown two types of rubbing strake, your thoughts on this would be welcome.
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: Shipmate60 on June 08, 2012, 10:39:45 pm
The simple "D" section looks more authentic.

Bob
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: irishcarguy on June 09, 2012, 01:10:55 am
I agree with Bob,the D section looks best, you are really moving it along, thanks for the pictures.Mick B.
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: longshanks on June 09, 2012, 11:26:33 pm
Whilst enjoying making a fun tug for grandchildren it occurred to me that the hull shape lends itself to a more scale
like tug examples below.

These were taken from Macduff Ship Design, an excellent site for ideas !
http://www.macduffshipdesign.com/

I appreciate that the hull would not be true scale but with an accurate representation of the deck layout they would look good.
The ease with which you can produce a hull from this plan would allow most people to scratch build a good looking boat.

Next thought the scale of build could be changed to suit these boats or could the plans be stretched to better suit a scale?
I seems to me you couldn't just increase the size overall as the proportions would be out.

Your thoughts?
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: longshanks on July 03, 2012, 10:32:27 pm
At last found time to continue, anyone else find that life gets in the way of the real world?   %)

Got the electrics in. Used a 385 motor, 2mm shaft & 20mm 3 blade plastic prop. Power from 5 x Ni-mh batteries and a Mtroniks speed control.

Only tested in the bath so far (waiting for the rising water to reach the back door  ok2

Seems to go well and I can do a three point turn in the bath!

If when I try it on open water I feel the need to increase power/speed changing from plastic to brass will increase the pitch.

Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: longshanks on July 12, 2012, 09:04:43 pm
Pieces coming together slowly.

Quite pleased with the wood effect I got on the wheelhouse sides ...
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: Dave13 on July 12, 2012, 10:33:34 pm
Very nice I love the wood effect wheelhouse sides  :-)) :-))
Dave:)
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: longshanks on July 24, 2012, 09:44:41 pm
Finally got the hull painted, pleased with the results.

Thinking now it should have a barge to tow - anyone know of a simple barge plan ?
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: F4TCT on July 24, 2012, 09:49:32 pm
Heres my barge - http://danwalker.co.uk/Towing_Barge_html/towingbargepart1.html (http://danwalker.co.uk/Towing_Barge_html/towingbargepart1.html)

Might be for sale also!

Dan
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: longshanks on July 24, 2012, 10:35:35 pm
I think it might be a tad big, I reckon I could get twelve of my tugs lined up on deck !!

I've had a thought ! You say it will carry between 20 and 30 kg's. Number one grandchild can send number three to sea !!!! I wonder what my daughter is going to say?

 %)
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: Norseman on July 24, 2012, 10:48:06 pm
http://danwalker.co.uk/Towing_Barge_html/towingbargepart1.html (http://danwalker.co.uk/Towing_Barge_html/towingbargepart1.html)

Where's part 8 Dan?

Dave
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: F4TCT on July 24, 2012, 11:04:10 pm
doesnt exist yet.

Not done anything to it for ages as ive had other things to do.

Dan

Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: longshanks on July 25, 2012, 08:01:41 pm
Its finished - what do you think ?  Remember its for my 6 year old grandson !

All I need now is a barge, any suggestions ?

Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: F4TCT on July 25, 2012, 08:05:30 pm
Looks great, he should be well chuffed!

as for the barge, well i think we know the answer to that one!  ;D

Dan
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: longshanks on July 29, 2012, 09:31:23 pm
Started work on a barge, a tug needs a purpose in life  ok2

Using scraps from the garage. 9mm ply and interior door skin.
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: longshanks on August 01, 2012, 10:44:14 pm
Coming together.

A question for the knowledgable out there.

Do dumb (? un powered) barges have fixed fins / rudder on the stern to provide directional stability?
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: tugmad on August 01, 2012, 10:56:06 pm
Answer-----YES the barge you have would have had one or two fixed fins on the after end on the thames batges they were called Budgets. they would be from the keel line to the vertcal from the aft end of the barge , and approx a quarter of the beam in from the sides    Geo...B
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: longshanks on August 02, 2012, 09:43:41 pm
Thanks for that info  :-))

Next pics will show 'Budgets'
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: Tug Fanatic on August 03, 2012, 06:29:26 am
"budgets" (I didn't know that they were called that as I have always called them skegs) work best at stabilising the tow if they are angled out slightly at the back.
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: derekwarner on August 03, 2012, 07:23:48 am
longshanks says ......"remember its for my 6 year old grandson"

Well it dosn't matter what he calls you...Pop, Grandad, Pa or whatever  :o you will be his hero  :-)) ...you have completed a great build

Remember he may also need a little assistance at the pond  ;) ... & just the job for you  {-) ....

We all know you will both enjoy the sailing.........Derek

Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: Norseman on August 03, 2012, 03:44:20 pm
A cracking little tug for a lad and with the barge it will be even better :-))

Dave
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: longshanks on August 03, 2012, 10:12:36 pm
Thank you very much guys for your help and support, much appreciated !  :-))
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: longshanks on August 04, 2012, 11:11:42 pm
Progress on barge....
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: longshanks on August 04, 2012, 11:14:46 pm
A few additions to wheelhouse

The roof is removable by unscrewing the cowls which have a small screw stuck to base. The front is held by ' L ' lip.
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: longshanks on August 06, 2012, 09:50:24 pm
Sea Trials Successful  ok2
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: longshanks on August 10, 2012, 09:44:04 pm
Well that was cutting it fine.....Birthday tomorrow - Barge completed.
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: Martin (Admin) on August 10, 2012, 10:11:02 pm

                                                      (http://schools.shorelineschools.org/kellogg/files/2011/11/clap-animated-animation-clap-smiley-emoticon-000340-large.gif)
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: derekwarner on August 10, 2012, 10:32:47 pm
mmmmm..... I'am not sure who will have the most fun tomorrow... %)

Grandfather...or father....or grandson.... {-)

Anyway congratulations longshanks on a fine looking build set.... :-))
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: Stormbringer on August 11, 2012, 12:45:27 am
i think the wee guy will love it  :-))
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: F4TCT on August 11, 2012, 10:04:32 am
Great job!

 :-))
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: longshanks on August 11, 2012, 09:46:58 pm
Hi Guys,

Thank you for your kind comments and support.

You were right - total success!!

This boat is the least technical I've built, in the shortest time and had the most fun! To see their faces the biggest cherry on the top
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: Martin (Admin) on August 11, 2012, 10:17:52 pm
... you mean there's no photo?!?  <:(
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: longshanks on August 12, 2012, 09:37:28 am
Sorry had to check with parents first.

No 1 grandson 6 yesterday
No 2 grandson 4 today
Group photo is me plus son plus three grandchildren.

 :-))
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: longshanks on August 12, 2012, 09:43:49 am
Sorry seemed to have had a stutter - can a moderator pls correct  %)



Duplicates removed.  Your all of an excited jitter. Quite understandable,  lovely pictures.

                                                :-)) :-)) :-))

ken
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: Tug Fanatic on August 12, 2012, 11:06:05 am
I would have been really thrilled to get a present like that !

Come to think of it I still would!!!!!!!

Brilliiant.       :-))   O0
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: Martin (Admin) on August 12, 2012, 04:51:06 pm

Will you be my Granddad for Christmas please?
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: longshanks on August 12, 2012, 05:17:16 pm
OK Taking orders  ok2

Martin, you are going to have to promise that you wont sit on my knee  {-)
Title: Re: Small Tug
Post by: Martin (Admin) on August 12, 2012, 09:02:21 pm
 {-) {-) {-)