Model Boat Mayhem

The Shipyard ( Dry Dock ): Builds & Questions => Working Vessels => Topic started by: Capt Podge on June 08, 2014, 07:52:12 pm

Title: Diary of an "Easy Build" Pilot boat
Post by: Capt Podge on June 08, 2014, 07:52:12 pm
This model, named "LAYLA" is based on the free plan of a Pilot Boat, by Richard Webb, issued with Marine Modelling International Jan 2004.
 
Day 1
 
02 Dec 13
Plan layed out and studied in conjunction with the article as mentioned above
 
(http://s27.postimg.org/n84cm1y83/The_Plan.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
the_plan.jpg
 
03 Dec 13
The 2 bottom panels of the hull were cut out, marked up for frame locations and the edges chamfered ready for joining.
The inner (shiny) surfaces of the plasticard were keyed using wet 'n dry used dry. These 2 panels were then taped together, starting aft and working for'd to the start of the curves.
 
(http://s2.postimg.org/m27ma2rux/bottom_panels.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
bottom_panels.jpg
 
04 Dec 13
The 2 side panels of the hull were dealt with as above and taped to the bottom panels, again up to the start of the curves
in the hull.
 
(http://s27.postimg.org/jl7fic0hv/side_panels.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
side_panels.jpg
 
At this point I decided to deviate from the instructions in the article as I could foresee problems when it comes to fitting the two frames.
So, the frames were traced from the plan and copied over to plasticard. 2 of each frame were made, the idea being to laminate them for extra strength and achieve a larger gluing surface i.e. 3mm instead of 1.5mm
 
(http://s29.postimg.org/7d642x5lj/frames_traced.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
frames_traced.jpg
 
05 Dec 13
Nothing done today - mystery illness...
 
06 Dec 13
A few hours kip and we were up and running.
The 2 lamination for the after frame were cut out and "welded" together. After final trimming the frame was offered up to the bottom of the hull and "welded" in place one side at a time.
 
(http://s1.postimg.org/igvlriefz/frame_to_bottom.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
frame_to_bottom.jpg
 
The 2 side panels were then welded to the frame, again this was carried out one side at a time.
 
(http://s27.postimg.org/d9pczfszn/frame_to_sides.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
frames_to_sides.jpg
 
...more to follow later.
 
Regards,
 
Ray.
 
Title: Re: Diary of an "Easy Build" Pilot boat
Post by: TheLongBuild on June 08, 2014, 08:02:25 pm
Later !!!!!!  <*<
Title: Re: Diary of an "Easy Build" Pilot boat
Post by: Capt Podge on June 08, 2014, 09:16:33 pm
Doing these updates in between housework - yep, SWMBO is down with 'flu like symptoms  :((
 
07 Dec 13
Very little time in the workshop today - visitors, family skype, dad's taxi etc..
Just managed to cut out the double laminations for the for'd frame.
 
08 Dec 13
For'd frame laminated and welded to the bottom sections of the hull. Started taping up to bring remainder of the bottom panels together, ready for gluing.
 
(http://s8.postimg.org/u2ixm0nrp/for_d_frame_going_on.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
for'd_frame.jpg
 
09 Dec 13
Bottom panels taped up. Ran plasweld into the joint on the inside.
 
10 Dec 13
The side panels were taped up as far as the for'd frame then welded in place after final trimming of the frame to accommodate the deck camber.
Decided at this point to apply 20 min epoxy to the joint of the two bottom panels.
 
(http://s28.postimg.org/xlk1o0ixp/bottom_glued.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
bottom_glued.jpg
(http://s30.postimg.org/jxburrhv5/bottom_again.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
bottom_again.jpg
 
 
While that was drying I made an angled piece of plastic to use as a guide for when the prop tube gets installed. This was put away safely for when I reached that stage. Also cut a 3mm i.d. tube for the rudder installation.
Just doing these little jobs while the glue is hardening off.
 
11 Dec 13
Brought the remainder of the side panels into place, taping up on alternating sides, 2 strips at a time, until final taping of the bow - this helps to keep the hull straight and true (I hope)
Despite my careful cutting out of the panels (stanley knife) there were still some minor gaps so these were filled with P38 and left to harden off for 24hrs.
 
12 Dec 13
The P38 was rubbed down then the joints between the bottom and side panels were coated with 20 min epoxy resin then once again left for 24 hrs to fully cure.
 
 (http://s18.postimg.org/uh3tz63ah/panels_meet.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
panels_meet.jpg
(http://s8.postimg.org/n4ogqxlcl/panels_to_bow.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
panels_to_bow.jpg
 
...duty calls >>:-(
 
more to follow later.
 
Regards,
 
Ray.

 
 
Title: Re: Diary of an "Easy Build" Pilot boat
Post by: Capt Podge on June 08, 2014, 11:22:59 pm
...continuing on.
 
13 Dec 13
All masking tape removed and external joints sanded to round out the edges.
 
14 Dec 13
Other commitments today.
 
15 Dec 13
a.m. down the lake - p.m. busy elsewhere.
 
16 Dec 13
Over zealous rounding of the joint between Port side and Port bottom panels resulted in a partial spring off - reglued.
Now awaiting result before proceeding any further.
 
17 Dec 13
Port side looks ok - won't know for sure until basin trials, which can't be done until the transom goes on.
The original transom was discarded - because of the way I've tackled the hull, it's too steep a "V" (on the original) so, made a template by taping cereal packet cardboard to the stern of the model to the correct shape.
The above is not a criticism of the designer - just the way I've set about the build.
Anyway, the template was transferred onto plasticard (slightly oversize).
The plasticard was then placed on a warm radiator to aid curvature.
Still had a bit of difficulty getting the plastic to conform so just tacked into place for the night. Too tired to carry on...
 
18 Dec 13
Transom taped into position, welded and epoxied into place. The hull was then put aside for another 24hrs to fully cure.
 
(http://s23.postimg.org/k9seyt9kr/oversize_transom.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
oversize_transom.jpg
 
In the meantime the deck was traced and cut but decided not to cut the deck opening out at this stage, that will be left until later on.
 
19 Dec 13
All tape removed, all joints checked for any gaps - none found. The hull was then placed in the bath and half stone of lead ballast added to get the hull well down in the water. Left it in situ for 1hr 30mins - totally dry - returned to the workshop and a start made on trimming the excess from the transom.
 
20 Dec 13
More time out for Christmas shopping -  >>:-( >>:-( >>:-(
it was 2230 before I even got the workshop open >:-o
Carried on with trimming the Transom - managed to finish that little job anyway.
 
(http://s10.postimg.org/k1figl5ft/transom_trimmed.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
transom_trimmed.jpg
 
21 Dec 13
Next came the spray rails. Used some strip plastic which I had in stock already. These were 6mm x 3mm and needed to be filed down at an angle to fit against the hull.
 
(http://s29.postimg.org/5owyb2g47/filing_sprayrails.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
filing_sprayrails.jpg
 
The above photo shows the method used to file the sprayrails.
 
Just got the first strip filed down then - DISASTER - I caught the model and sent it plummeting to the (concrete) floor, bow first !
Time to leave the workshop...
 
22 Dec 13
Damage was limited to a split bow   about 4" of sprayrail snapped.
Time to get the P38 out. Once hardended the filler was sanded down smooth. The broken piece of the stbd spray rail was then replaced and the whole rail tacked in place.
 
(http://s7.postimg.org/5xurmjpaj/bow_repaired.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
bow_repair.jpg
 
23 Dec 13
The workshop is now out of commission until after festivities - heating off - workshop now in use as extra "cold storage" for the festive fayre i.e. food & drink.
 
....The diary reopened on the 1st January 2014
 
update in a day or two :-))
 
Regards,
 
Ray.
 
Title: Re: Diary of an "Easy Build" Pilot boat
Post by: TheLongBuild on June 08, 2014, 11:33:01 pm
 :-)) :-))

Great Diary..
Title: Re: Diary of an "Easy Build" Pilot boat
Post by: Capt Podge on June 09, 2014, 09:42:05 pm
:-)) :-))

Great Diary..

Thank you.
 
01 Jan 14
Workshop still a bit cramped but at least I can reach the workbench.
P38 applied to top and bottom edges of stbd sprayrail, attempting to fair this into the hull to take away the sharp edges.
Left to harden off overnight.
 
02 Jan 14
The whole session was spent filing and sanding, filling, filing and sanding et al.

03 Jan 14
Finished sanding down stbd sprayrail. Start made on filing down plastic strip for the port sprayrail.
 
04 Jan 14
Continued filing down the rail. Once completed, the port sprayrail was tacked in place, then welded to the hull from stern, working for'd. Got to the point where the rail takes a double twist and just taped in place overnight.
 
(http://s27.postimg.org/3jri6byo3/double_twist.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
double_twist.jpg
 
05 Jan 14
Carry on "welding" sprayrail into position. Once completed the hull was left to harden off.
 
06 Jan 14
Hard to believe it's taken 5 weeks just to get this far - although Christmas festivities did get in the way somewhat %)
Anyway, the port sprayrail appears to be holding ok - time to give it the P38 routine.
 
07 Jan 14
Rails were trimmed and sanded to final shape.
 
08 Jan 14
Rubbed down entire hull with fine grade sandpaper, followed by wet 'n dry, used dry.
Hull now just needs a wash down with warm soapy water - this will be done when the weather becomes suitable for outdoor spraying. In the meantime, pilot holes were drilled for the rudder tube and prop tube.
Rudder tube hole reamed to size and the tube was teased into place. This was then checked carefully to ensure tube was vertical and central.
Once happy with the position a good blob of rapid epoxy was applied in the natural well formed by the "V" of the hull.
This was then left overnight to fully cure.
 
(http://s29.postimg.org/jttm8wcl3/ruddertube_well.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
ruddertube_well.jpg
 
Note that these tubes are being fitted before the deck goes on - just makes for easy access - although it could be done with the deck in place.
 
09 Jan 14
Spent the entire session trying to ensure proptube aperture made in the right place and at the correct angle - got there eventually - tube will be glued in next time.
 
10 Jan 14
Made a small "box" around the proptube, superglued the box in place, then filled with epoxy resin and left alone to go off.
 
(http://s24.postimg.org/s3palqatx/boxed_in.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
boxed_in
 
(sorry for the poor quality image)  :embarrassed:
 
In the meantime the rudder shaft was cut to size and a cardboard cereal packet was used to make the template for the rudder blade.
This was then taped to the shaft.
 
(http://s27.postimg.org/s4j3rs4sj/card_rudder.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
card_rudder.jpg
 
For the tiller arm I used a brass pin from a 3-pin domestic plug and drilled a hole through for the actuating arm. A flat was filed on the upper shaft for the pins' screw to mate up against.
Happy with the result, I could go ahead and make the blade. Instead of using the template I realised I could use the actual cutout, rather like a stencil, and this would be easier to draw around.
So, the 2 halves of the blade were drawn onto 0.5mm plasticard and cut out.
 
(http://s11.postimg.org/rkpt3v38j/blade_halves.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
blade_halves.jpg
 
The rudder shaft was lined up so that the tiller arm was at 90 deg to the blade and the blade superglued into position.
When dry the rudder was re-installed in the hull to check alignment and clearance.
Satisfied with the result, the rudder was once again removed, in order to glue the 2 halves of the blade to the shaft.
All the rudder needs now is the blade to be filled in the hollow around the shaft itself.
 
 
So far so good...
 
Regards,
 
Ray.
 
Title: Re: Diary of an "Easy Build" Pilot boat
Post by: Capt Podge on June 10, 2014, 12:00:31 am
continuing...
 
11 Jan 14
Carried out running repairs on one of my other models, so nothing done on this one today.
 
12 Jan 14
Another blank day - too busy with other "stuff". >:-o
 
13 Jan 14
...and again.  >:-o >:-o
 
14 Jan 14
Family visiting = no time for the workshop >>:-(
 
15 Jan 14
Back at last...P38 applied to rudder blade. While that was hardening off, made card templates for the boat stand cradles.
These were then transferred onto 9mm thick plywood. The rudder blade was rubbed down to final shape.
The 2 cradles were rough cut with the coping saw then trimmed to the lines. The horizontal stretchers were then cut to length and the positions marked off for drilling through the 2 cradles.
 
16 Jan 14
The cradles were clamped together, ensuring the bottoms and outer edges were horizontal and vertical respectively.
They were then marked for drilling and secured in the vice. Again ensuring horizontal alignment the holes were drilled out.
Next, the cradles were sanded down then given a coat of sanding sealer.
While that was drying the stretchers were sanded smooth.
Then the cradles were sanded smooth and the whole thing brought together and glued with PVA.
 
17 Jan 14
A final rubdown and the stand is ready for painting.
 
18 Jan 14
The deck is causing a bit of a headache, mainly how to get a good fit. I had deliberately cut it oversize and now needed to trim it back.
First attempt: Place deck upside down on the bench and draw a line around the upturned hull.
Ended up with awful wavy lines - I hadn't taken into account the sides of the hull flexing !
Attempt no.2: Taped the deck in place, then drew around it - same result plus, with the deck in place I couldn't tell exactly where the 2 frames were, which meant I would have a hard time establishing the cutout area.
 
19 Jan 14
Had one of those "bright" ideas that come without too much thought.
Placed a round fluorescent light underneath the hull - now I could see the 2 frames clearly so they were marked off, the lines joined up fore and aft and there was my cutout for the main deck access. ;)
Decided at this point to start filing down the overhanging edges of the deck while it was all nicely taped up.
Just got started then realised the hull was still flexing. Walk away time... :o
 
20 Jan 14
Had another thinking session while out with the dog:-
1. Mark the hull and deck in a couple of places so providing reference points.
2. Remove the deck altogether.
3. Remove the marked out area of the deck access. (this would have been almost impossible in-situ anyway)
4. Glue runners to edges inside the hull - this gives rigidity and also creates a larger surface area for gluing the deck in place.
5. Glue the deck in place, lining up the reference points.
6. Allow to fully harden off.
7. Trim off the excess - should work... O0
 
21 - 25 Jan 14
Layed up with a bout of seasonal 'flu  <:(
 
26 Jan 14
Not 100% clear yet but sick of moping about the house so, heater on in the workshop and see how we get on.
OK then, so the deck was carefully positioned, taped in place and reference marks made to aid alignment.
Deck removed and the access area was cut out with the stanley knife.
Some lengths of 7mm x 7mm obechi were cut to size, for the straight runs on both sides of the hull. These were epoxied in place, clamped up, then left to harden off.
 
(http://s14.postimg.org/7lj2kcpgx/side_stiffeners.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
side_stiffeners.jpg
 
To complete the deck landing area some ramin strip 6mm x 3mm was cut to size for the transom and bow areas then placed in hot water for about 20 mins. The wood was flexible enough without the treatment but had a tendency to "spring".
The 2 strips for the bow area were chamfered where they met at the bow.
Both strips were then clamped in place, hopefully to retain their curviture when they dry out.
The strip across the transom required notches cut in order to get the correct camber.
This was also clamped in place temporarily.
 
(http://s30.postimg.org/dulj3k9cx/plenty_clamps.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
plenty_clamps.jpg
 
The prop and rudder shafts were removed for now and the tube ends were masked off to deter ingress of dirt.
 
27 Jan 14
Now that the strips were dried out they were removed and they did retain the curviture - excellent !
These were epoxied in place, clamped and left to harden off.
Meanwhile, a bracket was made for the rudder servo, with a plywood base and balsa retaining structure.
 
28 Jan 14
Clamps removed. Deck once again taped in place then tapes pulled half-way off, retained in place on the deck itself ready for taping down tight once the epoxy resin is applied.
Used 20 min epoxy (Wilkinsons) spread all round outer edges and across the 2 frames.
Deck layed on, lined up to the markings and taped down tight. Batteries and other weights used to augment the tapes.
 
(http://s11.postimg.org/e4m90xwyr/deck_weighted.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
deck_weighted.jpg
 
While this was hardening off, soldered capacitors and leads on the motor - it's a 540 motor running on 6v battery, size yet to be decided, subject to required ballasting.
 
29 Jan 14
All tapes removed, deck now stuck firmly in place - or is it ?
Started filing down outer edges of deck to bring it flush with the hull - POP - off came the deck !  >>:-( >>:-( >>:-(
One mug of tea later, after a bit of thought, found the possible cause - the underside of the deck is the shiny side of the plasticard and I know I'd forgotten to key the surface therefore the epoxy had nothing to get a grip of...(it's elementary, my dear Captain).
Right-o then, cleaned it all up, hull and deck, keyed both surfaces and off we go again.
Glue applied, deck taped down again, lots of weights on top.
(Knew I should have built this model in wood) ;D
 
30 Jan 14
Once again, all tapes removed, appears to have worked this time.
 
(http://s30.postimg.org/j2qdd3yap/deck_on.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
deck_on.jpg
 
Leaving the filing down for another 24hrs. Hopefully the glue won't come away this time.
Allowing the extra curing period 'cause it's still a bit on the cold side.
Meanwhile there's the coaming to consider.
 
Regards,
 
Ray.
 
 
Title: Re: Diary of an "Easy Build" Pilot boat
Post by: John W E on June 10, 2014, 07:05:44 pm
hi Ray
 
By I admire a man who can work with plastic like this!
 
I will be watching your build, I want to see this model when you finish it. :-)
 
This is one thing I have never been able to do work in big scale plastic.
 
aye
john
Title: Re: Diary of an "Easy Build" Pilot boat
Post by: Capt Podge on June 10, 2014, 11:14:23 pm
Thank you for the compliments John - likewise, I'm always impressed by those, such as yourself, who can produce quality models in wood.  :-))
 
I'll try and get further updates on tonight...
 
Regards,
 
Ray.
 
Title: Re: Diary of an "Easy Build" Pilot boat
Post by: Capt Podge on June 11, 2014, 01:05:35 am
...continuing.
 
31 Jan 14
Cut 2 more strips of the 7mm x 7mm wood and glued then to the underside of the deck cutout, port & stbd, to form landing areas for the coamings.
The for'd and after athwartships coamings land on the 2 frames.
 
(http://s16.postimg.org/bxulig2sl/coaming_bases.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
coaming_bases.jpg
 
01 - 04 Feb 14
Away sea angling :D
 
05 Feb 14
Thought it better to install the running gear before gluing the coamings in place - less chance of catching the coaming when delving into the innards.
Propshaft coated with lubricant (teflon) and run into proptube - same for the rudder shaft.
Glued a piece of foam in place for the motor to lay on.
A strip of wood was then glued in place either side of the motor with a small cable clip attached to each and an elastic band between then to secure the motor.
 
(http://s9.postimg.org/8ermz9t33/rudder_servo.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
rudder_servo.jpg
 
06 Feb 14
Very little done today, just made up 10 grabrails to be used later in the build, too cold to do anything else.
 
07 Feb 14
Nothing done on the model today - busy prepping another boat for the session on Sunday.
 
08 - 10 Feb 14
Away again...
 
11 Feb 14
Got the coamings made up and gluing in progress
 
(http://s21.postimg.org/52icqph3r/coaming_progress.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
coaming_progress.jpg
 
12 Feb 14
Made up navigation lamp boards and painted same.
Cut 6mm length of 3mm i.d. copper coated mild steel tube as an experiment to see if it could be made into a navigation lamp.
Before cutting it to length, used a round needle file to fashion the opening for the light to shine from. It's a perfect fit for the LED's I have in stock. Hooked one up to a battery and it's spot on O0
Just need a top for the lamp now to stop the light shining upwards. Happy with that so made one for the other side.
 
(http://s23.postimg.org/tk1thtax7/nav_lamps.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
nav_lamps.jpg
 
13 Feb 14
Tops made from 0.5mm plastic by using a hole punch - slightly oversize but will trim back nicely later on.
Incidentally, bought some "powerfix" rubber sealant (draught excluder) from Lidl's a while ago - this was used to line the cradles to protect the hull.
Easy to apply, just pull off the backing (in stages) and stick as you go. Seems like good stuff - time will tell.
 
14 Feb 14
Battery shelf made up, rudder tiller link made and installed - tested ok.
Shelf made up for ESC. Remainder of running gear all tested, all ok.
 
15 Feb 14
Battery and ESC trays removed for painting.
 
16 - 21 Feb 14
Visiting family down South - my turn to get in the way ! {-)
 
22 Feb 14
Traced cabin/wheelhouse sides, transferred to plasticard and cut away ready for final trimming.
 
23 Feb 14
Nowt done today...
 
24 Feb 14
Stbd cabin side filed/sanded to the lines. 1 window cut out, another underway.
 
(http://s27.postimg.org/cryzpenyb/cutting_windows.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
cutting_windows.jpg
 
25 Feb 14
Weather suitable for spraying - at last.
The hull was given a good rub down with wet 'n dry to achieve a good key. Hull was then brushed off and washed in warm soapy water, rinsed and then left to dry naturally.
2 light coats of primer later and we finally have a half decent looking hull.
This was left alone for the obligatory 24hrs to harden off.
 
(http://s29.postimg.org/g9xmcd753/primer_applied.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
primer_applied.jpg
 
The remaining 4 windows of the stbd side wheelhouse/cabin combo were cut out and filed to final shape.
Note: the middle window of the 3 small cabin windows is 1mm shorter than the other two - it is on my copy of the plan anyway.
 
Start made on the port side.
 
In progress...
 
Regards,
 
Ray.
 
Title: Re: Diary of an "Easy Build" Pilot boat
Post by: SteamboatPhil on June 12, 2014, 08:49:23 am
Love this build log, and I also admire your working this way, its really coming along and looks good, keep up the fine work  :-))
Title: Re: Diary of an "Easy Build" Pilot boat
Post by: Capt Podge on June 13, 2014, 09:33:27 pm
...Thanks Phil, encouragement always welcome O0
 
26 Feb 14
Hull given a good rub down with wet 'n dry (wet) ready for the next coat.
Port superstructure windows cut out and trimmed.
 
27 Feb - 03 Mar 14
Another winter illness prevents progress {:-{
 
04 Mar 14
Traced out saloon inner bulkhead and rear wheelhouse bulkhead complete with window and door glass panel apertures, transferred onto plasticard and cut out. These were then taped to the 2 side panels, over the coaming, to form the basic skeleton of the superstructure.
The for'd and after panels were welded in place whilst over the coaming to ensure a good snug fit.
Cut to size 2 x deck runners, rubbed down after sanding sealer applied then primed ready for final coat.
 
05 Mar 14
Maintenance session on other models.
 
06 Mar 14
The 2 deck runners (which hide my slightly wavy cutting) were glued in place and left to dry overnight.
 
07 Mar 14
Front slope of bonnet traced, cut and trimmed.
Piece of 6mm x 6mm balsa glued to the back of this to negate the tendency for the front piece to bow in-over.
This was then glued in place.
Made 3 x cross members, incorporating a camber, to accommodate the saloon top.
 
(http://s29.postimg.org/nqyvhp17b/cross_members.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
cross_members.jpg
 
08 Mar 14
Athwartships runner made for rear wheelhouse bulkhead. Sanding sealer applied. Rubbed down and primed.
All 6 saloon window apertures are partially obscured by the high coaming so used fine tip marker to indicate where this will have to removed. That will be done later.
Next came corner strengtheners for the wheelhouse because at this stage the wheelhouse is still a bit flimsy/wobbly.
So they were cyanoed in place then the saloon bonnet was cut roughly to size then put aside till later.
 
09 Mar 14
Tackled the aforementioned window cut-outs in the high coaming. Initially thought I'd cut exact window shapes but this would have involved a lot of filing/ sanding.
The solution was really quite simple - made two vertical cuts, per window, with the junior hacksaw followed by horizontal scribing with the stanley knife and broke the pieces out (of the coaming, that is), leaving a castellated effect on the coaming.
This also gave me sufficient gluing area for the glazing, which will be tackled after the superstructure has been sprayed.
 
10 Mar 14
Just could not get the deck runners to lie totally flat so the minor gaps were filled with P38. Spent the remainder of this session rubbing down - again !
 
11 Mar 14
Rubbing down completed. Hull was then given a good brushing off and a damp wipe down.
Templates made for all the windows, on cardboard, to get correct shapes for the acetate.
 
12 Mar 14
Window glass all cut out and stored safely away until needed.
Saloon bonnet epoxied to the cross members, taped in position, weights applied then left to harden off.
The edges will be welded to the sides and front later.
 
(http://s8.postimg.org/xiw6mvnmd/gluing_bonnet.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
gluing_bonnet.jpg
 
Now for the inner wheelhouse.
The 5 parts required for the basic "box" were traced and copied to plasticard and cut to size.
Front and back welded to the base.
 
(http://s16.postimg.org/4fkn130f9/start_inner.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
start_inner.jpg
 
13 Mar 14
Sides added to complete the box. The bonnet has been welded and trimmed to final shape.
 
14 Mar 14
Nowt done today.
 
15 Mar 14
Got the inner wheelhouse box in place. Now need to decide what to incorporate by way of furniture controls and etc.
 
16 Mar 14
Window frames for front of wheelhouse made, apertures cut out ready for final trimming.
 
17 Mar 14
Front wheelhouse window frames welded into position. Wheelhouse floor made up complete with cut out for steps to the lower deck, giving access to the saloon area.
Start made on the helmsmans control/equipment panel.
 
18 Mar 14
"Carpet" laid on wheelhouse floor and floor at bottom of access ladder.
 
(http://s2.postimg.org/o9dqr1sjd/wheelhouse_carpet.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
wheelhouse_carpet.jpg
 
19 Mar 14
Low bench made for foul-weather changing area at rear end of wheelhouse.
Component parts made up for Pilots swivel chair. All joints on superstructure rounded off where possible.
6mm wide beams glued into position along port and stbd upper wheelhouse sides and back, on the inside, to support cambered roof beams.
When hardened off another beam will be added to the front inner wheelhouse.
 
20 Mar 14
Aforementioned beam now in place.
Traced and made up wheelhouse roof and trimmed to final shape.
Further beams cut to make up an inverted box which will be attached to inside of roof such that it will push into place and, hopefully, will stay put.
 
21 Mar 14
The for'd and after beams were given a camber to aid curvature of the roof. Another cambered beam will be added centrally.
Used cling-film to ensure the inner box of beams doesn't get stuck while the glue is going off.
 
(http://s9.postimg.org/9xpbt1cbj/roof_inner.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
roof_inner.jpg
 
Primer coat applied to accommodation ladder and the low level seating in the foul weather changing area.
 
...more to follow.
 
Regards,
 
Ray.
 
Title: Re: Diary of an "Easy Build" Pilot boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on June 13, 2014, 11:27:51 pm
Looks great, Ray, you're doing a marvellous job.


I built one, christened "James Cook", from the same plan back in October 2006, although I had the plan enlarged to give a length of about 76cm, and built with 1.5mm ply. It was a good performer, and I eventually gave it to my grandsons in Sydney, where she still gets the occasional outing. After giving it away I decided to build another one, called "Henry Rous", which I still have and sail regularly on our club lake in Ballina NSW.


I look forward to updates of your build.


Peter.
Title: Re: Diary of an "Easy Build" Pilot boat
Post by: Capt Podge on June 13, 2014, 11:48:02 pm
...carrying on.
 
22 Mar 14
So, that's the inner frame glued up.
The wheelhouse roof was then taped in place, over the cambered beams, the superstructure turned upside down and the roof marked off around the inner framework to assist with positioning when gluing the two together.
First attempt and the whole lot sprang apart - brew time again ! %%
OK then, the principle was sound, just needed a stronger glue - so out came the cyano - happy days :D
 
23 Mar 14
The for'd overhang of the wheelhouse roof was ridiculously too long and too pointed so this was cut back and given a more realistic "bow" front.
Various bits for the inside of the wheelhouse were given a coat of primer.
The hull was given another rub down and sprayed once more with grey primer.
 
24 Mar 14
Various parts for the helmsmans operating position were glued in place and then the whole glued inside the wheelhouse.
Found a broken toy figure, in the bits box, glued him back together (American sailor) reshaped his "bun hat" and gave it a shiny new peak - so he is now my helmsman for this model.
 
(http://s30.postimg.org/9sovanw7l/helmsman.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
helmsman_jpg
 
25 Mar 14
Hull rubbed down again, now ready for marking the waterline.
Once established, this was masked off ready for spraying (when the weather improves again).
 
26 Mar 14
Got lucky with a small weather window today so sprayed 2 coats of red primer to bottom of the hull below the waterline.
 
(http://s10.postimg.org/f5emx2trd/red_primer.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
red_primer.jpg
 
Spent the remainder of this mini session messing about with bits and pieces for the electronics.
 
27 Mar 14
Bottom of the hull rubbed down ready for top coat - Halfords BMW Imola Red 11 - but need decent spraying weather yet again !
Rest of this session spent on redoing running gear on another boat.
 
28 - 30 Mar 14
Nothing done.
 
31 Mar 14
Borderline weather window today so managed to spray 2 topcoats to hull below the waterline.
Stripped masking away before the paint dried, to avoid "tearing" - lovely job.
 
(http://s7.postimg.org/lwzn0fehn/lower_topcoat.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
lower_topcoat.jpg
 
Hull put to one side for 24hr drying period.
Rigged up electrics for navigation lights.
 
01 Apr 14
Hull masked up for spraying above the waterline. Deck also covered up ready - see what tomorrow brings ref weather.
 
02 Apr 14
No spraying today - too cold and damp - oh well, back to the nav lights.
Painted the boards black inside and out. Realised too late that it's only the inside that's black - the outside of the boards should be the same colour as the roof - in this case white - so they'll have to be redone.
 
03 Apr 14
Couple of coats of white put on the nav light boards, bit of a mess but will come right eventually.
Remainder of time spent squaring up the workshop.
 
04 Apr 14
Weather ok today so the hull, above the waterline was sprayed with Halfords "Vauxhall Kings Blue".
All masking removed and hull put aside to harden off - again.
 
(http://s27.postimg.org/v9clqvlr7/painted_upper.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
painted_upper.jpg
 
Just doing little bits and pieces in the meantime.
 
05 Apr 14
Found a tiny strip of grey between the blue and red coats on the transom (this can be seen on the above photo) - about 5mm long - obviously down to my masking.
Sprayed blue paint into a plastic top to use for "touching in" - job done.
 
06 Apr 14
Hull masked off ready for spraying the deck. This will be Halfords "Ford Polar Grey", left over from a previous model.
Still toying with electrics for best fit.
 
07 Apr 14
Deck sprayed, masking removed, hull set aside to dry.
 
08 Apr 14
All appears ok so now need to get the hull finished off.
First requirement is for an "all-around" rubber fendering. Saved a broken fanbelt from the tumble dryer which should do the job.
This was cut down it's entire length, about 60/40% split, the 60% will be used for the top edge of the hull.
Using epoxy resin for this, rapid setting, so can only do small portions at a time.
Started at the port bow and working aft, round the transom then work for'd to the stbd bow.
 
09 Apr 14
That's the port side fendering in place.
Working on a wreck that I was given in between gluing sessions.
 
10 Apr 14
Continued gluing - transom done and about a third of the stbd side.
 
11 Apr 14
Glued fendering to completion.
 
12 Apr 14
Busy elsewhere today (Allotment garden needs serious attention) <*<
 
13 Apr 14
Applied lettering to port and stbd bows (LAYLA) and transom (PORT OF BLYTH)
 
14 Apr 14
Sprayed hull with 2 coats of varnish - Rust-oleum Crystal Clear Matt, from B&Q.
Left for the obligatory 24hrs to harden off.
 
15 - 19 Apr 14
Workshop shut - family staying over.
 
20 Apr 14
2 coats of varnish applied to deck, left to harden off.
 
21 Apr 14
All masking removed. Battery and ESC trays glued into place.
 
22 Apr 14
All running gear connected up and bench tested - all OK.
Not happy with the look of the original "Mast" which looks more like the tail of an aeroplane so I'm now working on a replacement for that.
 
23 Apr 14
Used a length of 3mm i.d. mild steel tube for the mast body incorporating mast-head lamp. Found a suitable size piece of scrap metal for the mast ring.
 
24 Apr 14
Mast ring soldered in place. 2 x mast supports prepared and cut to size.
 
25 Apr 14
Working on another model to ready it for this Sunday's visit to the lake.
 
26 Apr 14
Mast supports (1.5mm mild steel) soldered to mast ring.
 
(http://s17.postimg.org/3mza4bwsf/soldering_mast.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
soldering_mast.jpg
 
27 Apr 14
Made and soldered on mast crosstree.
Superstructure rubbed down with wet 'n dry, ready for spraying.
Window apertures masked off from the inside.
 
...more to follow on next update.
 
Regards,
 
Ray.
Title: Re: Diary of an "Easy Build" Pilot boat
Post by: Capt Podge on June 14, 2014, 08:12:38 pm
Looks great, Ray, you're doing a marvellous job.

Peter.

Hey, thanks Peter - Very neat work you have produced there :-))
 
....and continuing on
 
28 Apr 14
Spent a few hours attempting to make guardrails for the after end of the deck.
Started with a cardboard template of the deck shape. This was copied over to a piece of scrap 4mm plywood and holes drilled to accept the 5 upright stanchions (just using 1.5mm mild steel rod) then a further length of the same stuff was cut to size and soldered into position to form the toprail.
4 out of the 5 uprights came off during filing off the excess solder - so everything was cleaned up ready for attempt no.2
...only 1 upright stayed solid - workshop abandoned >:-o
 
29 Apr 14
Still niggled about the handrails so just stayed away.
 
30 Apr 14
All cleaned up again ready for attempt no.3
All 5 uprights attached and holding.
 
(http://s21.postimg.org/gir0q3awn/soldering_handrails.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
soldering_handrails.jpg
 
01 May 14
Holes drilled for the stanchions to confirm positions of the rails are ok - the handrails were trial fitted, good result - now they can be removed for cleaning up ready for painting.
 
(http://s7.postimg.org/on783f9mj/test_handrails.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
test_handrails.jpg
 
02 - 05 May 14
Prepping models for the upcoming Harrogate Exhibition
 
06 May 14
Mast tabernacle broke away so had to redo that bit and fix in place with 5 min epoxy.
Masthead nav light platform made and mounted.
 
07 - 11 May 14
Attending Harrogate Model Engineering Exhibition
 
12 May 14
Re-arranged electrics (again) and prepared for'd guardrails.
 
13 May 14
Cut a triangle of mousemat as a non-slip area at extreme for'd area of the deck.
 
(http://s30.postimg.org/huwmnfmep/for_d_handrails.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
for_d_handrails.jpg
 
14 May 14
Superstructure and guardrails spray primed in white, 2 coats, then left aside to dry.
Set bollards and fairleads onto a strip of balsa, sprayed with grey primer undercoat, set aside for drying off.
 
15 May 14
Topcoats (Halfords BMW Alpine White) applied to superstructure, mast and guardrails.
Matt black topcoats applied to bollards and fairleads.
Prepped and primed 8 x grabrails.
 
16 May 14
Grabrails sprayed matt black, 2 coats.
 
17 May 14
Cut, prepped and soldered up 4 x "T" brackets for the lifebelts. Installed the guardrails fore & aft.
 
(http://s30.postimg.org/tw1tt925t/lifebelt_brackets.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
lifebelt_brackets.jpg
 
18 May 14
Stbd side grabrails glued into positions
 
(http://s29.postimg.org/wwpafpn0n/stbd_grabrails.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
stbd_grabrails.jpg
 
19 May 14
Port side grabrails done.
Sprayed 2 coats of grey primer on lifebelt "T" brackets.
4 x double bollards glued onto main deck
 
(http://s30.postimg.org/v92cxha29/port_grabrails.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
port_grabrails.jpg
 
...more to follow later this evening.
 
Regards,
 
Ray.
 
Title: Re: Diary of an "Easy Build" Pilot boat
Post by: Capt Podge on June 14, 2014, 10:10:32 pm
...off we go again
 
20 May 14
Painted the 4 fairleads using "boltgun metal" from the Citadel Paints range.
Ships dog undercoated.
Wet area couch glued in place.
Wheelhouse door skins made with 0.5mm veneer.
 
21 - 31 May 14
Away for Whit week.
 
01 Jun 14
4 x fairleads glued into place.
Touched up handrails where paint hadn't taken properly.
2 topcoats of Matt Black applied to the lifebelt brackets.
Wheelhouse and saloon window "glazing" underway.
Tops attached to nav lamps and trimmed then painted "brass".
All glazing attached using Formula 560 canopy glue.
Outer wheelhouse door skin glued in place.
 
02 Jun 14
Finished off paint job on nav lamps and lifebelt brackets.
Used BECC lettering to apply "PILOT" identification to port and stbd sides of wheelhouse (12mm)
and wheelhouse roof (15mm).
 
03 Jun 14
Inner door skin glued aft end of wheelhouse.
Helmsmans front window developed a crack so window prised out and a new one made up and fitted.
Tried out nav lights - both port and stbd lights were shining through the paint on the tops of the lanterns so these were removed for further painting - black first, followed by another coat of brass.
 
04 Jun 14
Final checks made on nav light connections and wheelhouse roof epoxied in place.
2 x liferaft canisters made up ready for fitting.
 
05 Jun 14
Nav light lanterns, liferaft canisters and lifebelt brackets fitted.
Ships dog painted.
 
(http://s15.postimg.org/9rr3w7zx7/getting_there.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
getting_there.jpg
 
06 Jun 14
Busy elsewhere
 
07 Jun 14
Lifebelts installed. Radar painted up and mounted.
Dog glued to after deck. Door hinges and handle fitted.
 
Basin (bath) trials show her to be spot on - no extra ballast required - phew !
Bathroom scales indicate the model to be just 3 1/2lbs all up.
Now need an hour of fair weather to spray varnish the superstructure.
 
Here's a couple of shots of the overall boat
 
(http://s7.postimg.org/6zmnwz62j/port_bow_view.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
port_bow_view.jpg
 
(http://s16.postimg.org/lihy3ne2d/port_quarter_view.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
port_quarter_view.jpg
 
08 Jun 14
Sprayed varnish over superstructure - oh dear - I just knew I should have left the glazing until after the varnish. >>:-( >>:-(
 
All glazing gone opaque. Tried a number of products to get the varnish off but to no avail.
- so only one thing for it: Glazing removed, replacements made then a couple of hours spent manipulating the new bits into place.
 
09 Jun 14
Mast looked a bit bare so made up some shirring elastic "stays", added hook and eye arrangements and that brings the build to completion - just the sea/acceptance trials to carry out now - hoping to get down the lake this Sunday and with a bit of luck I might just be able to get a couple of photos of her on the water.
I'll put them on here to finish the Diary off.
 
Regards,
 
Ray.
 
Title: Re: Diary of an "Easy Build" Pilot boat
Post by: RAAArtyGunner on June 14, 2014, 10:37:47 pm
 
Nice model  :-)) :-)) :-))
 
and as per thread "easy build" now need to chase up the plan
Title: Re: Diary of an "Easy Build" Pilot boat
Post by: Stavros on June 14, 2014, 10:48:54 pm
MMMM I really like this one methinks I got to look through my Mags for this one and scale it up to around 36ins and fit a 900 motor
 
Dave
Title: Re: Diary of an "Easy Build" Pilot boat
Post by: Capt Podge on June 14, 2014, 11:04:18 pm
MMMM I really like this one methinks I got to look through my Mags for this one and scale it up to around 36ins and fit a 900 motor
 
Dave

Dave, although the bath trials were rather limited, I'm fairly confident she will perform well enough with the 540 installed - watch this space - as they say.
 
 

Nice model  :-)) :-)) :-))
 
and as per thread "easy build" now need to chase up the plan

Thank you Gunner, I have to say I thought I could build this one in about 6 weeks - took just over 6 months !
 
It does say on the plan that, although designed for 1.5mm plastic it could also be built with 1.5mm ply.
maybe I'll try that some time in the future.
 
Regards,
 
Ray.
 
Title: Re: Diary of an "Easy Build" Pilot boat
Post by: Capt Podge on June 15, 2014, 04:09:24 pm
Took the boat to the lake this morning and she went like a dream - here's a few pics
 
(http://s30.postimg.org/ln1rfyus1/floating.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
floating.jpg
 
(http://s1.postimg.org/8028r2aan/cruising.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
cruising.jpg
 
(http://s18.postimg.org/yixvo509l/flying.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
flying.jpg
 
Camera batteries were low so could only get a few quick shots off.
 
Enjoy 8)
 
Regards,
 
Ray.
 
 
 
Title: Re: Diary of an "Easy Build" Pilot boat
Post by: Netleyned on June 15, 2014, 05:03:04 pm
That's really impressive at speed :-))

Ned
Title: Re: Diary of an "Easy Build" Pilot boat
Post by: MLT44 on June 15, 2014, 09:59:28 pm
Hi
    Great build. A credit to you.
                       Dave :-)) :-)) :-)) :-))
Title: Re: Diary of an "Easy Build" Pilot boat
Post by: Steven.T on June 15, 2014, 10:01:38 pm
Looks great on the water, nice build  :-))
Title: Re: Diary of an "Easy Build" Pilot boat
Post by: Peter Fitness on June 15, 2014, 11:19:53 pm
Looks good :-))  and it goes somewhat faster than mine {:-{


Peter.
Title: Re: Diary of an "Easy Build" Pilot boat
Post by: John W E on June 16, 2014, 07:26:21 am
Hi ya Ray that looks really smart, well done my mate.  I bet that kept the Sunday morning rivet counting executives at Tynemouth busy all morning :-)
 
aye
john
Title: Re: Diary of an "Easy Build" Pilot boat
Post by: Capt Podge on June 16, 2014, 09:57:57 am
My thanks to you all for your kind comments. It makes the effort all the more worth it. O0
 
 
 
I bet that kept the Sunday morning rivet counting executives at Tynemouth busy all morning :-)
 
aye
john

Aye, and they're still trying to find them. {-) {-) {-)
 
 
 
quote from the film Field of Dreams "Build it Ray, they will come" :-))
 
 
Regards,
 
Ray.
 
 
Title: Re: Diary of an "Easy Build" Pilot boat
Post by: mark w on June 16, 2014, 08:11:37 pm
Ray,
 
Very well done  :-)) . I may have missed it, what scale does your model work out to?
 
Mark
Title: Re: Diary of an "Easy Build" Pilot boat
Post by: Capt Podge on June 17, 2014, 05:43:04 pm
Hi Mark,
 
...erm, I'm not sure what the scale is to be honest. It comes out at about 64cm loa if that's of any help ?
 
Regards,
 
Ray.
 
Title: Re: Diary of an "Easy Build" Pilot boat
Post by: Netleyned on June 17, 2014, 06:07:30 pm
Sounds like around 1/16

Ned
Title: Re: Diary of an "Easy Build" Pilot boat
Post by: mark w on June 17, 2014, 06:12:21 pm
Sounds like around 1/16

Ned

Thanks,
 
Mark