This is my first RC boat build and build log, so any advice or tips are welcomed!
I have wanted to build a Mahogany runabout/cruiser for a while, however all the kits I saw look quite complicated for a first time builder. Whilst browsing the forums I came across a build log for an Aeronaut Diva which looked like the right sort of level for me so I decided to stop dreaming and start building.
I ordered the kit from Cornwall Model Boats on a Thursday and it arrived the following Monday. The kit is made in Germany and the instructions are in German, however there are links provided where you can download the English instructions. My kit came with the English instructions printed out in the box which was quite helpful.
The first thing I did was look for a suitable building board. I am in the process of putting in some Ikea cupboards, so I chose a spare shelf to use as the base board. The kit comes with a depron jig which i glued to the base board.
With the glue dry, I proceeded to carefully remove the plywood bulk heads and keel from the kit and assembled them on the jig. I spent quite a lot of time checking and double checking everything at this point as there were a couple of things I wasn't expecting (but are probably common with this kind of build).
1. The keel is meant to protrude above the first bulkhead by approx 2mm and sit flush with the second. My keel was sitting about 1mm above the 2nd bulkhead so I double checked all the frames were fully inserted into the jig and then decided to just use tape to hold the keel down flush with the 2nd bulkhead whilst the glue dried.
2. The fourth bulkhead actually sits at an angle leaning towards the bow. This is probably quite normal for this type of boat, however I couldn't see the angle of the bulkheads in the instructions and wanted to be sure before I glued it.
3. Finally the two rails running from the 4th to the 8th bulkheads are actually slightly curved and need to be bent gently to fit into the cut-outs.
Once I was happy that all the above was as intended, I proceeded to glue all the corners.
Tonight I am planning on attaching the bow supports and stringers and will hopefully be ready for sheeting the bottom by the weekend.
Cheers
Aaron