Model Boat Mayhem

The Shipyard ( Dry Dock ): Builds & Questions => Working Vessels => Topic started by: Captain fizz on February 21, 2016, 11:13:17 am

Title: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on February 21, 2016, 11:13:17 am
Just embarking on the build of this vessel.
This is a return to model building after a fairly long break. How things have changed in the interim.
Instant glue systems, very trick digital control equipment and led lighting to name but a few!
I will endeavour to post pictures of progress along the way.


Simon
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Netleyned on February 21, 2016, 03:52:07 pm
Looking forward to seeing you progress Simon.


Ned
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Capt Podge on February 21, 2016, 11:31:26 pm
I'll be tagging along too.  O0

Regards,

Ray.
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on February 23, 2016, 11:11:16 am
I am just installing the Korts, shafts and motors but I cannot seem to upload pictures from my iPad, what am I doing wrong? >:-o
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on February 23, 2016, 05:13:54 pm
Had a trip up to the good folks at mobile marine models this afternoon.
It was very interesting to look around their workshop and have a chat, very useful.
As we left, we were treated to a training display by the Red Arrows at RAF Scampton, brilliant!
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Tug-Kenny RIP on February 24, 2016, 10:08:48 am
I am just installing the Korts, shafts and motors but I cannot seem to upload pictures from my iPad, what am I doing wrong? >:-o


It's probably due to the pictures being too large in memory size.  You might have to reduce them or else use  a hosting site.

ken

Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on February 24, 2016, 10:53:55 am
After plenty of faffing, motors, shafts, Korts and P brackets positioned and tacked in place.
I have now masked the outside of the shaft slots with poly film and have epoxied everything in place with West epoxy thickened with colloidal silica. I prefer this to using P38 because it is 100 percent waterproof.


Simon
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on February 24, 2016, 06:53:26 pm
Tacked and ready for epoxy.
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on February 25, 2016, 10:56:27 am
Initial epoxy completed.
I decided not to use a prop shaft bulkhead as such but,rather to make up a couple of casting boxes and enclose the shafts.
I plan to place the electronics board on top of this.
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Capt Podge on February 25, 2016, 01:25:14 pm
Initial epoxy completed.
I decided not to use a prop shaft bulkhead as such but,rather to make up a couple of casting boxes and enclose the shafts.
I plan to place the electronics board on top of this.

That's a good idea, duly noted, appreciate the update. :-))

Regards,

Ray.
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on February 27, 2016, 01:27:58 pm
The bow thruster has arrived from Cornwall models today.
Once this and the anchor recesses are installed, I will be able to get some decking installed and build the tray for the main electronics. Photo's will follow.
I am struggling a bit at present because I have smashed up my foot, so am not allowed to weight bear.
Every time I sit at the bench, I then realise I have left some vital part at the other end of the room >:-o
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on February 27, 2016, 09:46:54 pm
Bow thruster installed.
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on February 29, 2016, 03:35:18 pm
I have started to tack in the decks.
I have pulled a centreline down the hull to provide a datum.
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: MickyR1968 on February 29, 2016, 03:41:49 pm
Hi looking good are you cutting out the anchor holes as moulded. I have been bought this kit as a present and am about to start and looking at pictures of the real one and the marks on the hull they  look to far forward ?
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on February 29, 2016, 03:54:13 pm
Hi Mick,
Yes, I take your point. I hummed and ha'd over this as well and decided to go with the moulding rather than grind off the raised gel coat.
Have you made a start on your model yet?


Simon
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: MickyR1968 on February 29, 2016, 04:27:18 pm
Hi just finishing a Robbe Odin tug then its on to the Ayton cross I have gone with the 70mm korts
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on February 29, 2016, 05:01:46 pm
That's a cracking looking build Mick.
I have also gone for the 70mm set up.


Simon
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on March 01, 2016, 03:18:33 pm
All the decks are now tacked into place. I shall epoxy them in using thickened West before smoothing the inside face of the gunwhales with P38.
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: MickyR1968 on March 01, 2016, 03:43:18 pm
Hi do use the  fast or slow  hardener in the west stuff
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on March 01, 2016, 03:51:18 pm
I use the 206 slower hardener and thicken with the colloidal silica powder. You still need to be careful with the thickness, if it's too thick it can get very hot as it cures.
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: MickyR1968 on March 01, 2016, 03:52:46 pm
makes a very neat job
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on March 01, 2016, 04:48:05 pm
I have used it a lot in the past when building racing sailing dinghys.
It is very reliable and easy to get really neat fillets and is 100 percent waterproof.
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: MickyR1968 on March 01, 2016, 05:00:38 pm
I am going to try it on my Ayton cross build
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on March 01, 2016, 05:13:56 pm
Make sure that you get the dispensing pumps, they are worth the expense just for the convenience and lack of waste.
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on March 11, 2016, 06:28:25 pm
The main decks are installed so I have moved on to the deckhouse and boat deck.
I shall paint the interior of the hull before reinstalling the running gear and then checking the fore and aft trim prior to deciding the position of the battery tray.
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: ballastanksian on March 11, 2016, 09:11:45 pm
Lovely looking project Captain. How is your foot doing?
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on March 11, 2016, 10:28:43 pm
Thanks Ballast, I am enjoying the build.
My foot is much improved, can't wait to get rid of the plaster, a week and a half to go!
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: ballastanksian on March 11, 2016, 10:46:39 pm
Plaster? :o Crikey no wonder you are annoyed at forgetting things from across the workshop.
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on March 11, 2016, 11:04:36 pm
Oh! It's better than that, I can't get to the workshop.
I'm filling the dining room with dust and the scroll saw is attached to the butchers block!
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: mersey dave on March 12, 2016, 12:54:23 pm
Oh! It's better than that, I can't get to the workshop.
I'm filling the dining room with dust and the scroll saw is attached to the butchers block!

I know what it's like mate......it's so much harder getting things done, I have built my Maltby from my wheelchair due to having my leg off. Keep going you will get there. :-)) :-)) :-))

Regards Dave
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Norseman on March 12, 2016, 01:31:00 pm
I'm filling the dining room with dust and the scroll saw is attached to the butchers block!
Well done, priorities in good order  :-))
You should get a Mayhem medal  O0
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on March 12, 2016, 03:58:56 pm
Any medal should go to Dave, fair play to you buddy!
Had a good productive day today, will post pics later


Simon
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on March 12, 2016, 05:17:53 pm
Deckhouse and upper superstructure assembled today.
Some filling and sanding required and then on to the wheelhouse.
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on March 12, 2016, 05:20:39 pm
More
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: ballastanksian on March 12, 2016, 08:20:39 pm
I salute you for getting the angles and corners so near to perfect Captain:O)
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: tugnut on March 13, 2016, 07:02:13 am
That,s looking very neat keep pictures coming :-)) .
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Delboy1958 on March 13, 2016, 03:55:25 pm
Hi Captain Fizz
Looking with interest as I have one of these in stock for a future build.
Its a fine build you are doing there.


Regards


Derek
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on March 13, 2016, 06:44:40 pm
Thanks Derek, just some filling to do now.
I started the wheelhouse today, oh for a laser cutter. Still, I am getting there slowly.
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: mersey dave on March 13, 2016, 06:58:57 pm
Hi Mate, it's coming on really well.....your doing a great job keep going it looks the part. :-)) :-)) :-))

Regards Dave.
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on March 13, 2016, 07:43:16 pm
Thanks Dave.
I plan to get some paint inside the hull tomorrow, take a day off from the fiddly stuff.
I need to fill and smoothe the bulwarks too.
More dust in the dining room! %)
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on March 15, 2016, 08:31:32 pm
A day of filling and sanding.
Smoothing out the inside face of the bulwarks.
Should be ready for paint in a few days.
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on March 16, 2016, 06:53:06 pm
Well, I have got most of the filling and sanding completed.
A second coat of paint applied to the inside of the hull.
And I finally got around to making a stand!
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on March 21, 2016, 03:58:15 pm
Today I have been getting my head around the electrical installation in as much as the physical layout.
I will run two 12volt lead acid batteries in parallel positioned in line on the keel.
The tray for these is epoxied to the motor mount board and where it touches the hull astern.
All the control electronics will sit on a board forward of the batteries. This should allow me to route the rx aerial up inside the superstructure to keep it away from the main power leads.
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on March 24, 2016, 04:24:37 pm
A good day today installing the electronics.
I am running a Hitec Optic 6 Tx.
Action 94 speed control feeding 2 x T12 hi torque motors.
I will run a separate speed controller for the bow thruster.
I intend to mount the receiver on the inside of the combing so that I can locate the aerial within the superstructure.
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on March 28, 2016, 02:40:59 pm
Somewhat annoyed this week to find that there is a fault on the speed controller (probably a faulty relay) which is causing the port motor to fail to reverse direction.
Everything else functions correctly.
Anyway, fitted the steering servo support and getting on with the fiddly stuff on the wheelhouse.
I intend to cut out the wheelhouse floor to afford access for subsequent painting, glazing and internal fittings.
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on April 08, 2016, 05:25:12 pm
After initial filling and sanding, today I have blown some guide coats of primer on the superstructure and wheelhouse. I find this helps to highlight the imperfections.
More filling and rubbing down to do but it is not looking too bad.


I am trying to do my bit for the environment by using water based acrylics.
With the aid of an externally vented spray booth, I am able to airbrush indoors. So far, the results are quite pleasing.
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on April 10, 2016, 04:20:00 pm
I went to the Coalville show this weekend and while there I visited the Component shop stand.
I was buying a few bits for my Springer build and I took the opportunity to ask about progress on my malfunctioning speed controller.
I was told that they had not had the time to look at it yet so they gave me a replacement there and then.
Excellent service, so now I can reinstall all the controls and give them a test.
I have spent today building most of the deck fittings. Now I need to pull them to bits for painting.
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on April 28, 2016, 08:53:00 am
Trying to get some paint on the hull.
This morning is bright, sunny and calm, but very cold.
Sprayed outside and then brought back inside into the warm to cure.
Not ideal but I am trying to push the project on!
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: ballastanksian on April 28, 2016, 08:50:38 pm
Looking ace!
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Capt Podge on April 28, 2016, 11:35:50 pm
It never ceases to amaze just how much difference a coat of paint makes to a model - once you get to that stage it gives you the impetus to crack on. O0

Regards,

Ray.
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on April 29, 2016, 08:20:13 am
So true Ray, I was a bit in the doldrums with the build and now I have started the paint I just want to crack on. :-))
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on April 29, 2016, 11:25:04 am
That's the capping rail on the bulwarks done.
So now there is a little more filling and sanding to do and then spray the black to the top sides, then the inner bulwarks and finally the decks.
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: radiojoe on April 29, 2016, 04:27:35 pm
Mmmmm, Shiny, I like shiny, something you don't get with warships. %% %%  %)
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on May 01, 2016, 07:42:53 pm
Top sides and deck painted. Two small patches of delamination on the deck which is annoying. Fortunately it is under where the main winch sits so will not be seen.
I have re-installed the Korts, shafts and props. All the electronics have been popped back in and tested and the bow thruster is running.
I will probably give it a run at the lake tomorrow just to check the ballast.


Simon
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on May 02, 2016, 05:01:42 pm
Sea trials at a windy and choppy Wicksteed this morning.
All went pretty well after adding some ballast both fore and aft.
Plenty of power but it could do with a little more throw on the rudder, an easy fix.
The bow thruster spins her in her own length but will need a bit of sound proofing.
So that is the easy bit done, now to get on with the fiddly stuff and hopefully get finished for Mayhem at the end of the month.
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: derekwarner on May 02, 2016, 05:46:27 pm
Simon............ >>:-(........... [when we got there the cupboard was bare O0]......Derek
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on May 03, 2016, 08:25:51 am
Sorry Derek, struggling to re-size.


Simon
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on May 03, 2016, 03:24:16 pm

Just starting construction of the main mast.

Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on May 03, 2016, 05:04:48 pm
That's the main mast, now to make the ladder to run up the back.
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on May 04, 2016, 05:23:58 pm
This was a bit fiddly but satisfying.
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Capt Podge on May 04, 2016, 07:11:29 pm
If my future attempts at making ladders are anywhere near that good I'll be well chuffed - good work Cap'n. :-))

Regards,

Ray.
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on May 04, 2016, 07:44:47 pm
Thanks Ray, Mobile Marine did supply a ladder but it was a very soft white metal job and it was like a bit of plasticine and I would never have been happy with it.


Simon
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on May 04, 2016, 07:54:35 pm
Nearly there,just the aft mast light brackets to go.
Then a clean up and ready for paint.
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Captain fizz on May 05, 2016, 09:40:19 am
That is the mast complete. All the light platforms and vhf and radar.
Now just a final  clean up, put in the wiring and paint.
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: captain bligh on November 16, 2016, 05:35:41 pm
Hi fizz
Any more build update photos ?looking good up to now  :-))
Mike
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: Brian60 on November 16, 2016, 08:38:25 pm
I was on Youtube last night watching videos from Svitzer salvage. On one of them the Ayton Cross was used extensively in the salvage of a ship, I think it was the grounding off of the Canary Islands, if anyone is interested.
Title: Re: Ayton Cross Tug Build
Post by: 1275mini on March 26, 2023, 12:06:53 pm
Watching this thread