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AmalfI - Mantua static wooden kit conversion

Started by CapnJim

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CapnJim
Update · 13 years ago

AmalfI - Mantua static wooden kit conversion

The kit was/is in-expensive and seemed to have possibilities as a small RC model.
After obtaining the kit I did some basic calculations on buoyancy (i.e. I weighed the boat and all the extra kit plus calculated simple volume of hull below waterline) to see if it would float with all the extra gear - although not a lot of freeboard it looked possible -especially if I increased the displacement a little.
The plan was studied next to check on the practical side of conversion and getting everything to fit, while still keep the centre of gravity low and properly positioned along the keel - again it seemed to work.
The keel was cut to accommodate the prop. tube and a small strip was added to the keel with skeg to take the rudder bottom bearing. Reinforcement was added to the sides of the keel where it was cut for the prop. shaft and rudder tube and the frames adjusted to fit.
The rudder assembly was made and fitted in front of the transom - allowing for servo pushrods to operate it without interference of the frames, holes in the transom or the deck.
All the frames had to but cut with lightening holes and also to provide much needed access/space for the motor, batteries, servo, ESC, switch and receiver. Additional strips were added to the rear frame bottom edges to (marginally) increase the displacement when the skin was added by making them deeper below the waterline.

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CapnJim
Update · 13 years ago

AmalfI - Trial RC fitting & cabin

Before applying the hull chines the RC was tested, then installed and re-tested, checking that it could be removed as required and would not interfere with the chine skins. A balance check was also made to ensure that the weight distribution wasn't too far out leaving just the question mark about draught and freeboard!
The removable cabin was made to fit inside the coaming. Using Velcro the receiver, being light, is fitted up inside the cabin which keeps it dry and a little away from the electrics.
The skins fitted easily with little extra fillets to fill the gap made by adding strips to the bottom of some frames. The whole was sanded down, primed and initially sealed.
Next to complete the model was the detailing.
To be continued.

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CapnJim
Update · 13 years ago

AmalfI - Adding more detail

Visually the main addition is the nets. After a brief check on the internet some fine black netting was found and small plastic beads painted orange added to the top edge (as floats). Hooks were made to make them removable and eyes, sheets and other fittings added to the mast and booms to add realism.
The bow fender was made of fimo, painted with an embedded chain and side fender from dowel plugs rounded again with eyes and chains added.
Two figures found at a car boot were modified to Captain and seaman and their poses adjusted to a natural position. The seaman stepping on the forward hatch also provides a convenient means of lifting the hatch quickly to get to the main switch. Additional netting and coils of rope were soaked in watered down PVA to stiffen them and superglued in position on the deck providing some 'clutter'.
The cabin was roof was veneered for no particular reason (!) but additional windows with frames, hatch and door hinges, portholes (brass tarpaulin eyes with glazing), lifebuoys, searchlight, foghorn etc. were all home made from scrap.
The total weight of the additional fittings (being wood, plastic etc.) is very small with even the netting only adding 8gms.but in my view brings the model to life.

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CapnJim
Opening post · 13 years ago

AmalfI - Mantua static wooden kit conversion

Trials at home (easily done since the model Is so small) confirmed the freeboard, balance (virtually no additional ballast required) and also an Indication of her speed - Initially from one end of the bath the other!
AmalfI has proved to be quit stable In light and even fresh winds and the bow waves of larger models. With the ability to remove the netting I'm quite happy to sail her In fresh even moderately gusty winds and she takes In virtually no water. Using a 12' (3.5m) home 'swimming' pool she sails well and I use home made buoys to provide a steering course - at this size It's practical and fun If you can't get to the local pond/lake.
So - I'm happy with the conversion and given the reasonable price of the kit and the use of mainly spare parts/scrap In her conversion a successful project.

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