Hello,

This is my second attempt at this model, I tried this many years ago but had to admit defeat as I did not have the time or patience as a 20 something. Anyway, older wiser and with a lot of lessons learnt I am giving this another go.

She was originally a Buckley Class DE from the US and transferred under the Lease Lend scheme to the RN in 1943. This was my Granddads ship in the war so I have a connection to her and have always wanted to have this as part of my fleet.

I've uploaded an image of the plans I have from the Model Dockyard (US Buckley DE) and will modify it to fit the photo I've also attached. The final picture is my start on the keel and forward sections tacked in place.

I'll upload more when there is progress.

Good luck with your builds.

Dave

Hello all,

I've finished leveling the Sections and added the top stringer to firm up the structure. I need to now make sure the sections are running in line, I've taken a tip from a good build article on Warship Models Underway: (http://www.wmunderway.8m.com/cont/hullcont/hullcont.htm)

I'll use a single baton to run down the sides of the ship to either smooth off or add to each section until I'm happy that when I add the hull sides it will be 99% straight.

I've also realized how small this ship will be in 1/96 and it may have been better in 1/48, so will need to start thinking about maybe using one Engine and looking to create a gearbox that allows two shaft output? if anyone has any suggestions please let me know.

Regards

Dave

Hello all,

I've made a start on the Superstructure, they are basic ply with blocking to support. I've split the sections into 3 as I want to have the middle superstructure secured to the decking but have the forward and rear sections removable to allow access to the motors etc.

I've also made a start on the planking for the hull, this is balsa which I will look to cover in fiber glass once it is ready.

slow progress and I'll update more when I can.

Good luck with your builds.

Dave

Hello all,

I've been busy with the Bridge build, this has proved a little tricky as the forward structure is at a slight angle when not on the ship. I've used a combination of 1/8 ply and 0.75mm plastic sheet. I needed the ply in this section as this will be where I will have hull access for batteries and needed the strength. The walls of the upper structure are plastic sheet which I think have come out well. There is still more to add (look out wings at the rear of the bridge need walls etc) I can the start to connect this to the decking before adding finer details.

Coming on slowly is the hull, I will spend a bit more time here over the coming weeks to get it ready for sanding and then fibreglass coating.

Good luck with your builds.

Dave

Hello all,

Hope you are well? it's taken a while to get to where I am but I can start to see some real progress. I've managed to get the main superstructure complete, they are at a stage where they could be connected to the deck if it was ready.

The Hull is now covered in a layer of Balsa, it does now need a lot of rubbing down so I can then look at applying a layer of fiberglass. I've not ordered this yet but I have seen it advertised at Cornwall Model Boats. if anyone has any suggestions on how to fiberglass I'm happy to hear any advise as this will be my 1st time.

Good luck with your builds

Regards

Dave

Hello all,

I've had to start the hull from scratch. I went away for a week, I came back to see the hull bent in all different shapes, no amount of sanding or filling would rectify that so I've had to start again.

This time it's out of any direct sunlight!

Regards

Dave

Hello all,

So I've managed to get back to somewhere near where I was last time. The frame work is of a slightly thicker Ply (1/4") The Keel is straight, frames are all 100% level and I've now used balsa block for the Bow and Stern to give the planking a bit more support and to assist in getting a better shape at both ends.

Fingers crossed I will have the hull build in the next few weeks, I can then get on with Sanding and filling before applying fiberglass and Resin to make the hull solid.

Uploaded a few photos to show where I'm at.

Good luck with your builds.

Dave.