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USCG 44' Motor Lifeboat
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About this boat
A lady about 30 miles away is downsizing in preparation for a move to senior housing.
She told me her husband built this back in the late 60's when they were living in the San Francisco area.
She believes it was scratch-built, but I think it may have been (a very nice) kit. Does anybody have an opinion?
When he built it, he modeled it after one that was stationed in San Francisco at the time.
He passed away 15 years ago, and this boat has been sitting in its storage box in her garage ever since.
The batteries are labeled "good" and are dated 1991.
My first thought was to rip out all the vintage electronics and update it. But the more I think about it, it would be fun to see if these vintage parts can be resurrected. Thoughts?
She told me her husband built this back in the late 60's when they were living in the San Francisco area.
She believes it was scratch-built, but I think it may have been (a very nice) kit. Does anybody have an opinion?
When he built it, he modeled it after one that was stationed in San Francisco at the time.
He passed away 15 years ago, and this boat has been sitting in its storage box in her garage ever since.
The batteries are labeled "good" and are dated 1991.
My first thought was to rip out all the vintage electronics and update it. But the more I think about it, it would be fun to see if these vintage parts can be resurrected. Thoughts?
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If it ain't broke don't fix it. A beauty from an era where RC grew into multichannels.
Lew
Florida, USA 🇺🇸
The Nautical Commander was the 'Dream System' in the 90's.
No doubt many mechanical switchery could be replaces with electronic modules. I cannot see the ESCs, and they possibly could go modern digital units if necessary.
I see the Pittman motors, they always were very efficient, and were the standard with Dumas kits.
I dare say your batteries will be 'Kaput', but could easily be replaced with a pair of 7.2v NiMh packs with a 'Y' cable.
Please keep us posted on your progress.
Then replace the transmitter & receiver with "legal"-in-2023 stuff.
It's a beautiful model !
and the builder obviously understood his electrics and electronics.
Many micro-switch operated functions, and I recognise one twin timer chip - which can serve several functions.
I would take the trouble to trace the wiring, find out what does what, renew the batteries and give it a whirl. What have you got to lose?
Think of it as a tribute to the builder👍😉
Cheers, Doug😎