Hi Guys,

Before i start this little log I must say it is all Graham93’s fault.
After seeing his lockdown challenge Tug.

I thought it was fantastic and so small for a RC Boat, and as we are unable to go out and about the idea of just using it in a small area of water.

I then thought i could do something like that and use it in Big Blue.

The first problem i had was to find something small enough to operate and control it.
I have all sorts of junk but no small RC equipment.
So after fighting off the big spiders in the shed i found parts of a child’s toy submarine.

Testing it proved surprising, the motors and transmitter actually worked, so i had a good start.

Next, what should i make it out of, Yes you are right.
I had some plastic margarine tubs.

A good friend had sent me some GA drawings so with the first three problems out of the way i then though well there is nothing stopping me from having a go.

So i sprang into action.

Tinkered about a bit and made the hull.

Martin555.

Hi Guys,

Done a little more work on the hull.
After cutting the motors off of the sub i attached them to the hull.
I then decided to make a start on the superstructure, again using the plastic from the margarin tub.

Martin555.

Hi Guys,

"Flora" is starting to take shape now.

Martin555.

Hi Guys,

I have hit a problem that will stop the progress of “Flora”.

I can get both motors working in reverse but only the starboard motor working forward.
As this little Tug need both motors to steer (tank steering).

I have bypassed the receiver PCB and both motors work perfectly.

When i first tested the receiver PCB it worked but one motor was a bit jittery but then worked ok.

So i think that this is the end of this build.

I will post some photo’s of “Flora” as she is tomorrow.

That is when i calm down.

Martin555.

Hi Guys,

I have finally given up on trying to get this working properly.
It is definitely a component fault on the PCB.

So i will shelf “Flora” until i find something to get it working.

Until then here are a few photos of “Flora” as she is now.

I really enjoyed making “Flora” and i will definitely make another miniature but using proper RC equipment.

Martin555.

Hi Guys,

I have now blown my whole years model making budget.
I managed to get another little sub and used its control board to replaced the defective one on “Flora”. It cost me £2.50 plus P&P

She is so light that it only just breaks the water tension and the slightest breeze takes over full control.
It is about as controllable as my Jack Russell LOL!!!
I cannot add any more weight as she will sink.

As you can see in the short video the tide was out in Big Blue during this test.

All in all not a great success and i certainly did not plan on blowing my budget so early in the year LOL!


Video to follow. Fingers crossed.
Martin555.
"Flora" Test vid.
Or "Ohhhh! What shall we do with the drunken sailor? ...."
Sub Lt Phillips navigating "Left hand down a bit!"
CPO Pertwee "Evvvrybody DOWN!"
You can uncross yer fingers now Martin😁😎