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DABCHICK
Converted George Turner garden railways static boat for scenic layouts. 2CH RC with novel means of rudder/servo operation - geared via idler because of limited space.
Better than scale speed, a bit of fun and works well on very small through to large ponds.
Colour scheme references the bird of the same name.. Lots of cut outs to provide under deck access.
Better than scale speed, a bit of fun and works well on very small through to large ponds.
Colour scheme references the bird of the same name.. Lots of cut outs to provide under deck access.
I have a set of mouldings for one of these and was wondering what to do with it. What motor / prop / esc are you using ?. Have you any further photos. Would be very interested in any other details you can give .
John w.
There were several different versions using the same hull. Either way I think the conversion will be fine.
The prop is a standard item. I think I might have cut it down a bit but with the brass bush reused.
Receiver is a 2.4GHz Planet R6M (6gms MICRO 6CH) with a 1A Action ESC (with reverse). All housed in the forward cabin accessed through forward hatch (added by me).
Rudder control is achieved with a micro (cheap) servo tightly fitted into a styrene box below the stern seat. I attached a tube to the rear of this box to provide the axle for the idler gear. Nylon gears part of a standard set you see at trade fairs. Rudder an old KielKraft (1" wide and 1.5" deep blade). I've made the stern access in two parts the seat and a rear plate over the transom to ensure complete access to servo, rudder and gears.
I used a small old brushed electric motor from my 'come in handy box' on 6v. this drives a 25mm 3 bladed plastic prop via tubing universal joint.
A 4xAA pack of rechargeable cells is stored under the deck as close to CofG as possible and in a resealable bag. I can just remove it if required through a deck amidships. The main deck is planked and non-removable.
The switch and charge point is mounted by the helm and easily accessble.
All up weight is 295gms. Freeboard is fine even when a little choppy and she is quite stable. I was going to put a cover over the cockpit but have not found the need.
I do have some more photos and will try an upload them. Good luck, this was a very satisfying conversion and I still enjoy her as a quick an easy boat to prepare/handle/carry and operate.
Regards,
Jim Dewar