Following on from my encouraging start in tug building of my Lesro kit Sun Tug, Ive decided to build one from scratch! and worse still, from Plasticard !!!!
Ive chosen to have a go at the "Egrete" pusher tug, the plans of which are available from my hobby store, as well as a flat pack of plastic sheets to help with the build.
Ive always enjoyed making plastic kits in the past, so in one respect, its the "next step" up the kit build ladder. I have to admit, joining plastic has to be so much easier than joining wood, plus with wood, you then have to treat the stuff to ensure it prevents water from seeping in.
yes, ok so the wooden fans of this world will now be up in arms about this statement [my appologies] but for those people still "wary" of the "wood in water fear". yes, using plastic sheet does have its downsides too, it may be lighter and easier to join, but it ahs its weakenss of being very flexible, not unless you make sure that any long lengths of sheet is supported by cross beams and strengtheners. these do add structural strength and rigidity surprisingly enough, as you will see during the build blog.
A few people have built these in the past and dont seem to of been able to cope with some operational parts, but I have managed to make the wheelhouse motorised, linking in the wheelhouse mast, and also making the twin radars rotate and all on an elevating deck too!. thats one of the reasons for placing this build, so thats others may have the encouragenment now, to have a go at one of these interesting pusher tugs too.