To reset my baseline:The very detailed illustrated instructions and scale plan with this Deans kit are excellent, even down to a paint guide with Humbrol colour numbers.
The fiberglass hull is finely detailed. Almost 200 fittings supplied.
In both books previously quoted from, and the full library editions of Jane’s Fighting Ships 1908 & 1914, all Tribals were oil fired. Ungeared turbines dictated small propellers. Variations amongst this class were so extensive that the full editions of Jane’s have separate sections on each ship.
Amazon had twin shafts.
Build continues:I have taken advice given and am fitting an Action Electronics P94 Lite to provide both ESC and mixer functions. It arrived the day after ordering.
Internals so far . . .
Bath test ballasting showed a maximum of 700 gm to waterline with motors shafts and rudder fitted, but this figure has to include superstructure and fittings. Weight and space being fairly critical a 285 gm 6V 2700mAH Nicad battery was chosen. P94 Lite is 130 gm.
Aft compartments fitted with watertight bulkheads to limit prop turbulence ingress when going full astern.
Prop support stanchions fabricated in ABS, as the kit came with a single shaft for easy build.
There were clearly defined bilge keel positions along the hull, so I fitted them to help roll stability.
I came up with an idea to mount the receiver high in the fo’c’s’le for best reception and to keep it away from other electrics. A simple aluminium strip assembly that can be slid in under from the second funnel access panel and locked in place by the battery. Aerial goes up into the superstructure.
I have fitted a slightly larger than scale rudder, which I believe will be necessary at this scale. The kit’s upper false rudder is fixed, the part underwater steers, thus no unsightly external tillers or wires to snag on quarterdeck fittings and railings. Plenty of room for rudder servo with ball joint linkage inside the hull, under a removable access hatch
So far the running equipment has cost more than the kit, and a significant part of the work involved. However, I have learned from my cruiser rebuild experience. When another ha’porth of tar is needed . . .