As I said in my greetings messageI have built 3 boats but still consider myself low down on learning curve. I am about to start on a Bristol Channel Pilot Cutter using a GRP hull which will be first for me, having only worked with wood and plastic up to now.
There are various brass pieces to be fitted (rudder pintles, chainplates for deadeyes etc) is there any risk of problems with stress fractures with these fittings? Any tips on best way to fit these? For cutting openings such as for scuttles is simply drilling and filing the best way?
The model has internal ballast. I am using plans for a 1/12 scale model reduced to suit a smaller hull as suggested on the TrapletShop site where I made the purchase. How do I calculate the new weight required. With external ballast calculations can be made in the bath once build is complete and all R/C equipment is fitted but once I reach that stage with this build I assume it will be difficult to fit ballast. Also what is the best material to use. I found a description of someone pouring molten lead into his hull, I've poured lead, but into moulds miles from the model, the thought of doing it direct into a hull is rather scary!
I'm assuming the rather sketchy lines on the plan indicate the tiller. Actual steering seems to be via linkage from servo under the deck and out through star to fittings on the rudder. Is there a risk of water entering the hull at these points?
Hopefully you don't find my questions too stupid.
Thanks in anticipation.