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Liked No motor coupling 2 hours ago
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Recent Posts
💬 Re: ATSF Railroad tug and barge.
4 hours ago by 🇺🇸 chugalone100 (
Lieutenant Commander)
Lieutenant Commander)✧ 4 Views · 0 Likes
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Algon —
I really love what you did with your tug and the scratch-built train barge — they look incredibly realistic. Did you follow any blueprints for your barge, or was it entirely your own design?
I’m asking because I’m looking for 1:24 barge blueprints to build one for my Juanita. I know New Port Crown Model from China has a very nice barge, but the tariffs make it too expensive to import. So I’d like to scratch-build one using a good set of plans.
Any recommendations or advice would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks — Julian 😎
I really love what you did with your tug and the scratch-built train barge — they look incredibly realistic. Did you follow any blueprints for your barge, or was it entirely your own design?
I’m asking because I’m looking for 1:24 barge blueprints to build one for my Juanita. I know New Port Crown Model from China has a very nice barge, but the tariffs make it too expensive to import. So I’d like to scratch-build one using a good set of plans.
Any recommendations or advice would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks — Julian 😎
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💬 Re: Seguin
14 hours ago by 🇺🇸 chugalone100 ( Lieutenant Commander)
Lieutenant Commander)✧ 13 Views · 2 Likes
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Pressonreguardless,
After reviewing all your posts, I’m convinced you’ve got a secret shipyard hidden somewhere.
That model looks outstanding—seriously impressive stuff!
😎”
After reviewing all your posts, I’m convinced you’ve got a secret shipyard hidden somewhere.
That model looks outstanding—seriously impressive stuff!
😎”
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hermank
AlessandroSPQR
📝 Model Expo/Seguin tug 1:32 scale
14 hours ago by 🇺🇸 chugalone100 ( Lieutenant Commander)
Lieutenant Commander)✧ 23 Views · 2 Likes
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“Bruce, fantastic news!
Is that your coffee table… or your secret shipyard in disguise?
😎”
Is that your coffee table… or your secret shipyard in disguise?
😎”
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AlessandroSPQR
hermank
📝 Model Expo/Nauticurso Pesqueiro 1:32 Scale
15 hours ago by 🇺🇸 chugalone100 ( Lieutenant Commander)
Lieutenant Commander)✧ 11 Views · 7 Likes
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Artur is one of the most popular fishing vessels among Brazilian fishermen, and many are still active in Brazilian waters today.
During my research, I discovered that similar vessels were also used in countries such as Russia, Norway, and Switzerland.
This type of boat even played a role in WWII, carrying ammunition for the French resistance in the fight against Hitler.
The Nauticurso kit has gone through several upgrades over the years. The version I built was their earliest release, so after doing some research, I decided to replace—or scratch-build—many of the components myself.
The kit includes all the running hardware needed for full radio-control operation. Model Shipways, Inc. carefully translates the manual into English and provides a photo-rich, step-by-step assembly guide.
All parts are laser-cut from Amazonian hardwood.
Length: 22"
Scale: 1:32
This kit is guaranteed to bring plenty of fun and a good challenge for both beginners and experienced builders.
Maybe some of you know even more about this vessel than I do.
In the last picture, you can see the little photo setup I use for shooting my models. 😎
During my research, I discovered that similar vessels were also used in countries such as Russia, Norway, and Switzerland.
This type of boat even played a role in WWII, carrying ammunition for the French resistance in the fight against Hitler.
The Nauticurso kit has gone through several upgrades over the years. The version I built was their earliest release, so after doing some research, I decided to replace—or scratch-build—many of the components myself.
The kit includes all the running hardware needed for full radio-control operation. Model Shipways, Inc. carefully translates the manual into English and provides a photo-rich, step-by-step assembly guide.
All parts are laser-cut from Amazonian hardwood.
Length: 22"
Scale: 1:32
This kit is guaranteed to bring plenty of fun and a good challenge for both beginners and experienced builders.
Maybe some of you know even more about this vessel than I do.
In the last picture, you can see the little photo setup I use for shooting my models. 😎
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📝 Model Expo Prototypes "Mighty Might".
15 hours ago by 🇺🇸 chugalone100 ( Lieutenant Commander)
Lieutenant Commander)✧ 13 Views · 0 Likes
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Model Expo has an excellent relationship with Nauticurso, the Brazilian model company, and they carry many of their kits.
Since Model Expo needed completed models for their showcase and catalog, they commissioned me to build the Mighty Mite, the Subchaser AV-SC96 (1:32), and the Pesqueiro Artur.
I will post a few pictures of 'Artur' and how I built it.
😎
Since Model Expo needed completed models for their showcase and catalog, they commissioned me to build the Mighty Mite, the Subchaser AV-SC96 (1:32), and the Pesqueiro Artur.
I will post a few pictures of 'Artur' and how I built it.
😎
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📝 Model Expo Prototypes "Mighty Might".
16 hours ago by 🇺🇸 chugalone100 ( Lieutenant Commander)
Lieutenant Commander)✧ 15 Views · 0 Likes
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Marty,
Thanks so much for catching the spelling!
I really appreciate your help and input.
😎
Thanks so much for catching the spelling!
I really appreciate your help and input.
😎
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📝 Model Expo/Seguin tug 1:32 scale
23 hours ago by 🇺🇸 chugalone100 ( Lieutenant Commander)
Lieutenant Commander)✧ 35 Views · 2 Likes
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Here is the link to the model.
Has anyone in this forum ever owned or built the Seguin? I’d really appreciate hearing about your experience with it.
😎
Here is the link to the model.
Has anyone in this forum ever owned or built the Seguin? I’d really appreciate hearing about your experience with it.
😎
Here is the link to the model.
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pressonreguardless
hermank
📝 Model Expo/Seguin tug 1:32 scale
1 day ago by 🇺🇸 chugalone100 ( Lieutenant Commander)
Lieutenant Commander)✧ 37 Views · 15 Likes
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"Seguin Steam Tug"
HISTORY
Seguin is the nation’s oldest wooden steam-powered tugboat and is listed as a National Historic Landmark. Named after Seguin Island at the mouth of the Kennebec River, she was launched in 1884 in the city of Bath, Maine.
Measuring just over 100 feet in length and 20 feet in width, Seguin originally carried a white-painted hull with varnished hardwood cabins. Her first engine—a 26 × 26 surface condenser—was replaced in 1909 with a compound triple-expansion engine, giving her a top speed of roughly 12 knots.
This model was designed using measurements taken directly from the real vessel, along with blueprints and photographs provided by the Maine Maritime Museum in Bath.
This is a large 1:32 wooden plank on frame tug very suitable for r/c.
I took me almost a year to finish it, and I added my extra detail to facilitate a faster building of this very famous kits.
As you might notice by now, "Tugs" are my favorite vessels and many forum members have at least one of these.
😎
HISTORY
Seguin is the nation’s oldest wooden steam-powered tugboat and is listed as a National Historic Landmark. Named after Seguin Island at the mouth of the Kennebec River, she was launched in 1884 in the city of Bath, Maine.
Measuring just over 100 feet in length and 20 feet in width, Seguin originally carried a white-painted hull with varnished hardwood cabins. Her first engine—a 26 × 26 surface condenser—was replaced in 1909 with a compound triple-expansion engine, giving her a top speed of roughly 12 knots.
This model was designed using measurements taken directly from the real vessel, along with blueprints and photographs provided by the Maine Maritime Museum in Bath.
This is a large 1:32 wooden plank on frame tug very suitable for r/c.
I took me almost a year to finish it, and I added my extra detail to facilitate a faster building of this very famous kits.
As you might notice by now, "Tugs" are my favorite vessels and many forum members have at least one of these.
😎
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📝 Model Expo Prototypes "Mighty Might".
1 day ago by 🇺🇸 chugalone100 ( Lieutenant Commander)
Lieutenant Commander)✧ 36 Views · 10 Likes
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“This is a little model that could spark a conversation with just about anyone. It’s the ‘Nauticurso Mighty Mite’ I added lots of small details to what was originally a very plain model. Right now, it’s featured in the ME catalog with the photos I took in my makeshift patio studio. The model is also sitting in their store showcase.
Next time I’m over there, I’ll film the facility and give you all a little tour—so everyone here can see how a model-making company operates.”
😎
Next time I’m over there, I’ll film the facility and give you all a little tour—so everyone here can see how a model-making company operates.”
😎
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📝 Question of the Day?
1 day ago by 🇺🇸 chugalone100 ( Lieutenant Commander)
Lieutenant Commander)✧ 34 Views · 3 Likes
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Magellan himself named it “Mar Pacífico” (the Peaceful Sea).
😎
😎
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💬 Re: Midwest/Model Expo Fireboat
3 days ago by 🇺🇸 chugalone100 ( Lieutenant Commander)
Lieutenant Commander)✧ 27 Views · 5 Likes
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When adding the rear door, make sure the upper section aligns correctly with the lower wall. I overlooked this detail the first time and ended up having to remove both pieces to redo the entire assembly. I also added a door jamb, which gives the door a much more realistic, finished appearance.
You’ll also notice another improvement here: I added a window beside the rear door. It just looked right to me—and as they say, “beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” All of these improvements will be included in the new kit.
😎
You’ll also notice another improvement here: I added a window beside the rear door. It just looked right to me—and as they say, “beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” All of these improvements will be included in the new kit.
😎
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💬 Re: Midwest/Model Expo Fireboat
3 days ago by 🇺🇸 chugalone100 ( Lieutenant Commander)
Lieutenant Commander)✧ 27 Views · 4 Likes
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THE AWNING
The awning was another tricky construction for me. The problem was that the instructions never explain what angle the material should be cut to. After many attempts and a lot of trial and error, I finally found that a 35-degree angle worked perfectly. That’s the angle I would recommend to anyone building this beautiful model.
Once the angle was figured out, joining the five pieces was much easier. As long as you stick to the angles shown in the top view of the pilothouse blueprint, everything lines up nicely.
😎
The awning was another tricky construction for me. The problem was that the instructions never explain what angle the material should be cut to. After many attempts and a lot of trial and error, I finally found that a 35-degree angle worked perfectly. That’s the angle I would recommend to anyone building this beautiful model.
Once the angle was figured out, joining the five pieces was much easier. As long as you stick to the angles shown in the top view of the pilothouse blueprint, everything lines up nicely.
😎
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💬 Re: Midwest/Model Expo Fireboat
3 days ago by 🇺🇸 chugalone100 ( Lieutenant Commander)
Lieutenant Commander)✧ 27 Views · 4 Likes
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This is another improvement I decided to make to the kit: real doors. The instructions suggest creating the door by simply scribing lines and adding ink, but I wasn’t satisfied with that approach. Instead, I built a more realistic door using a few framing strips and a piece of 1/16" plywood for the panel. With these additions, the door has far more depth and looks much closer to what you’d find on the actual vessel. I still need to install the threshold, which should sit slightly raised above the deck.
😎
😎
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💬 Re: Midwest/Model Expo Fireboat
3 days ago by 🇺🇸 chugalone100 ( Lieutenant Commander)
Lieutenant Commander)✧ 27 Views · 3 Likes
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This next picture highlights a noticeable improvement to the model.
As I studied the details more closely, I realized I wanted to reproduce some of the moulding found around the pilothouse windows and surrounding structures on the real boat.
The full-size vessel features subtle trim that adds character and depth to the pilothouse, and incorporating a similar detail in the model brings it much closer to the authentic appearance of the actual craft.
😎
As I studied the details more closely, I realized I wanted to reproduce some of the moulding found around the pilothouse windows and surrounding structures on the real boat.
The full-size vessel features subtle trim that adds character and depth to the pilothouse, and incorporating a similar detail in the model brings it much closer to the authentic appearance of the actual craft.
😎
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💬 Re: Midwest/Model Expo Fireboat
3 days ago by 🇺🇸 chugalone100 ( Lieutenant Commander)
Lieutenant Commander)✧ 27 Views · 5 Likes
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THE PILOTHOUSE
You may encounter some difficulty—and probably a fair amount of frustration—if you follow the kit instructions exactly when constructing the pilothouse components that include windows. The affected parts are: two C-2 pieces, two C-4 pieces, one C-6, and one C-1.
The instructions call for assembling the window frames using the supplied 3/32" × 1/4" strip wood. In practice, these strips are so thin and delicate that the frames have almost no structural strength. During assembly, even the slightest movement caused the joints to separate, since there simply isn’t enough material to create a stable frame. After several attempts, I had to stop for the day out of frustration.
The next morning, I decided a new method was needed. My solution was to glue each assembled wall-and-window unit onto an ultra-thin sheet of mahogany veneer I had available at work. This instantly transformed the pieces into strong, rigid components while also giving the pilothouse interior a rich mahogany finish—an unexpected but very attractive improvement.
I shared this modification with Carlos, the General Manager at Model Expo, and we both agreed on a better long-term solution: parts C-2, C-4, C-6, and C-1 should be redesigned as individual laser-cut pieces. This would eliminate the fragile frame-building process entirely and greatly improve both build quality and ease of assembly.
😎
You may encounter some difficulty—and probably a fair amount of frustration—if you follow the kit instructions exactly when constructing the pilothouse components that include windows. The affected parts are: two C-2 pieces, two C-4 pieces, one C-6, and one C-1.
The instructions call for assembling the window frames using the supplied 3/32" × 1/4" strip wood. In practice, these strips are so thin and delicate that the frames have almost no structural strength. During assembly, even the slightest movement caused the joints to separate, since there simply isn’t enough material to create a stable frame. After several attempts, I had to stop for the day out of frustration.
The next morning, I decided a new method was needed. My solution was to glue each assembled wall-and-window unit onto an ultra-thin sheet of mahogany veneer I had available at work. This instantly transformed the pieces into strong, rigid components while also giving the pilothouse interior a rich mahogany finish—an unexpected but very attractive improvement.
I shared this modification with Carlos, the General Manager at Model Expo, and we both agreed on a better long-term solution: parts C-2, C-4, C-6, and C-1 should be redesigned as individual laser-cut pieces. This would eliminate the fragile frame-building process entirely and greatly improve both build quality and ease of assembly.
😎
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hermank
Wolle
jumpugly
AlessandroSPQR
Mike Stoney
📝 Midwest/Model Expo Fireboat
3 days ago by 🇺🇸 chugalone100 ( Lieutenant Commander)
Lieutenant Commander)✧ 27 Views · 3 Likes · 5 Comments
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Jumpugly,
If you—or any member of this forum—lneed anything, just let me know. They’re only about 30 minutes from my home, and if you live on the other side of the lake, they can also mail you anything you need.
😎
If you—or any member of this forum—lneed anything, just let me know. They’re only about 30 minutes from my home, and if you live on the other side of the lake, they can also mail you anything you need.
😎
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hermank
jumpugly
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📝 Midwest/Model Expo Fireboat
4 days ago by 🇺🇸 chugalone100 ( Lieutenant Commander)
Lieutenant Commander)✧ 45 Views · 6 Likes · 1 Comment
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Alessandro:
When I reached the hull planking stage on this kit, I had the same concern you did.
Under different circumstances, I would probably have added a layer of fiberglass cloth to stiffen the hull, but in this case I’m trying to follow the original instructions as closely as possible for commercial purposes.
I need to present the revised building instructions to Model Expo, so they have to stay very similar to the originals.
Regarding our concern about using balsa wood in a marine environment, I addressed that by applying several coats of marine epoxy, sanding between each coat. The results have been fantastic.
After the sea trials, the model will be placed in a display case at Model Expo and will never touch the water again.
😎
When I reached the hull planking stage on this kit, I had the same concern you did.
Under different circumstances, I would probably have added a layer of fiberglass cloth to stiffen the hull, but in this case I’m trying to follow the original instructions as closely as possible for commercial purposes.
I need to present the revised building instructions to Model Expo, so they have to stay very similar to the originals.
Regarding our concern about using balsa wood in a marine environment, I addressed that by applying several coats of marine epoxy, sanding between each coat. The results have been fantastic.
After the sea trials, the model will be placed in a display case at Model Expo and will never touch the water again.
😎
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Wolle
cjanik001
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📝 No motor coupling
4 days ago by 🇺🇸 chugalone100 ( Lieutenant Commander)
Lieutenant Commander)✧ 33 Views · 5 Likes
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GaryLC:
I can also see that you’ve likely done some mechanical restoration on that bike—it looks brand new. Excellent work! I can definitely relate to that kind of restoration, since I rebuilt a 1973 VW Beetle myself.
Here’s the engine I restored in my backyard.
😎
I can also see that you’ve likely done some mechanical restoration on that bike—it looks brand new. Excellent work! I can definitely relate to that kind of restoration, since I rebuilt a 1973 VW Beetle myself.
Here’s the engine I restored in my backyard.
😎
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📝 No motor coupling
4 days ago by 🇺🇸 chugalone100 ( Lieutenant Commander)
Lieutenant Commander)✧ 33 Views · 4 Likes
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GaryLC:
That is a very impressive-looking steam engine setup. I’ve always admired these systems, but I find them complicated since I have no real knowledge of steam engines. Nevertheless, I truly admire the modelers who can build them—and make them run.
Congratulations on an outstanding piece of work.
😎
That is a very impressive-looking steam engine setup. I’ve always admired these systems, but I find them complicated since I have no real knowledge of steam engines. Nevertheless, I truly admire the modelers who can build them—and make them run.
Congratulations on an outstanding piece of work.
😎
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💬 Re: Midwest #960 Fireboat
4 days ago by 🇺🇸 chugalone100 ( Lieutenant Commander)
Lieutenant Commander)✧ 15 Views · 1 Like
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I could send you the building instructions if still need them.
😎
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hermank
💬 Re: Midwest/Model Expo Fireboat
4 days ago by 🇺🇸 chugalone100 ( Lieutenant Commander)
Lieutenant Commander)✧ 48 Views · 4 Likes
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BRINKMAN:
Hey buddy, I hope you’re enjoying this build, especially since you have one of these models yourself.
Let me know if you’ve made any alterations or improvements to yours—I’d love to hear about them.
Thanks!
😎
Hey buddy, I hope you’re enjoying this build, especially since you have one of these models yourself.
Let me know if you’ve made any alterations or improvements to yours—I’d love to hear about them.
Thanks!
😎
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💬 Re: Midwest/Model Expo Fireboat
4 days ago by 🇺🇸 chugalone100 ( Lieutenant Commander)
Lieutenant Commander)✧ 48 Views · 7 Likes
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THE PLANKING
After fairing the hull to establish a smooth, continuous load path for the planking, the next step is to fabricate and install the hull panels. I began by cutting the planking sections from the supplied 3/32" sheet stock, ensuring that the wood grain ran vertically.
This orientation increases stiffness across the height of each plank and reduces the chance of cupping once installed. Planking should begin at the bow and progress aft, which helps maintain proper alignment and minimizes cumulative error as each piece is added.
From the stern to the F1 frame, the hull incorporates a distinct chine where the side and bottom planking meet. Because these surfaces butt directly against one another rather than overlapping, the side planks must be notched so they accurately register along the chine line. This results in a flush fit and preserves the designed cross-sectional geometry of the hull.
To improve surface continuity between planks and eliminate low spots, I added small scrap-wood shims anywhere minor gaps appeared during installation. These fillers support the plank edges and help create a smoother exterior surface before final sanding.
After completing the upper planking, I turned my attention to the bottom surfaces.
These were faired carefully and then paneled in the same manner—starting at the bow and cutting each section with the grain orientation indicated in the plans.
To ensure accuracy, I made blueprint copies and used them as templates, gluing the pieces in place with the grain aligned to the first bottom plank. Another very effective method is to lay the sheet stock directly on the hull and trace the outline, which produces an almost perfect fit.
Once the entire hull was planked, I sanded it smooth and applied wood filler where needed to achieve a continuous, even surface. After the final fairing, I sealed the hull inside and out using West System 105 resin and 205 hardener, mixed according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The included pumps make dispensing the correct ratio effortless. I applied three coats on both the interior and exterior, resulting in a remarkably strong and durable hull.
😎
After fairing the hull to establish a smooth, continuous load path for the planking, the next step is to fabricate and install the hull panels. I began by cutting the planking sections from the supplied 3/32" sheet stock, ensuring that the wood grain ran vertically.
This orientation increases stiffness across the height of each plank and reduces the chance of cupping once installed. Planking should begin at the bow and progress aft, which helps maintain proper alignment and minimizes cumulative error as each piece is added.
From the stern to the F1 frame, the hull incorporates a distinct chine where the side and bottom planking meet. Because these surfaces butt directly against one another rather than overlapping, the side planks must be notched so they accurately register along the chine line. This results in a flush fit and preserves the designed cross-sectional geometry of the hull.
To improve surface continuity between planks and eliminate low spots, I added small scrap-wood shims anywhere minor gaps appeared during installation. These fillers support the plank edges and help create a smoother exterior surface before final sanding.
After completing the upper planking, I turned my attention to the bottom surfaces.
These were faired carefully and then paneled in the same manner—starting at the bow and cutting each section with the grain orientation indicated in the plans.
To ensure accuracy, I made blueprint copies and used them as templates, gluing the pieces in place with the grain aligned to the first bottom plank. Another very effective method is to lay the sheet stock directly on the hull and trace the outline, which produces an almost perfect fit.
Once the entire hull was planked, I sanded it smooth and applied wood filler where needed to achieve a continuous, even surface. After the final fairing, I sealed the hull inside and out using West System 105 resin and 205 hardener, mixed according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The included pumps make dispensing the correct ratio effortless. I applied three coats on both the interior and exterior, resulting in a remarkably strong and durable hull.
😎
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Wolle
Mike Stoney
cjanik001
jumpugly
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💬 Re: Midwest/Model Expo Fireboat
4 days ago by 🇺🇸 chugalone100 ( Lieutenant Commander)
Lieutenant Commander)✧ 48 Views · 6 Likes
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THE RUDDER
At this stage, the modeler must make a material decision. The instructions specify a 3/32" wooden rudder supplied with the kit; however, I opted against this approach. Instead, I used a 0.064" brass sheet available in my workshop, cutting it to the shape indicated in the blueprints using a scroll saw.
For the back piece of the rudder, I employed a section of K&S #8245, 1/4" brass stock. After soldering and trimming all three components to the correct dimensions, I sanded them to a smooth finish and bonded the assembly using PC-11 paste to ensure a secure and durable connection.
😎
At this stage, the modeler must make a material decision. The instructions specify a 3/32" wooden rudder supplied with the kit; however, I opted against this approach. Instead, I used a 0.064" brass sheet available in my workshop, cutting it to the shape indicated in the blueprints using a scroll saw.
For the back piece of the rudder, I employed a section of K&S #8245, 1/4" brass stock. After soldering and trimming all three components to the correct dimensions, I sanded them to a smooth finish and bonded the assembly using PC-11 paste to ensure a secure and durable connection.
😎
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Wolle
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💬 Re: Midwest/Model Expo Fireboat
4 days ago by 🇺🇸 chugalone100 ( Lieutenant Commander)
Lieutenant Commander)✧ 48 Views · 7 Likes
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THE FRAMES AND THE DECK.
This stage of the build was relatively straightforward.
After identifying the frame components using the blueprints, I assembled each frame by laying wax cooking paper over the plans—this prevents any unintended adhesion—and then gluing the parts together directly on top of the drawings.
As many of you already know—and have likely done yourselves when building a model—I made several extra copies of the blueprints. These duplicates allowed me to cut out patterns and use them for accurately tracing the shapes of the parts before cutting. This method helps ensure consistency and reduces the chance of error when shaping the components.
To strengthen deck the structure, I added small reinforcing strips of wood in the areas where the deck will later rest on the frames. This simple modification provides a more secure and precise surface for attaching the deck, improving both alignment and overall rigidity.
😎
This stage of the build was relatively straightforward.
After identifying the frame components using the blueprints, I assembled each frame by laying wax cooking paper over the plans—this prevents any unintended adhesion—and then gluing the parts together directly on top of the drawings.
As many of you already know—and have likely done yourselves when building a model—I made several extra copies of the blueprints. These duplicates allowed me to cut out patterns and use them for accurately tracing the shapes of the parts before cutting. This method helps ensure consistency and reduces the chance of error when shaping the components.
To strengthen deck the structure, I added small reinforcing strips of wood in the areas where the deck will later rest on the frames. This simple modification provides a more secure and precise surface for attaching the deck, improving both alignment and overall rigidity.
😎
▲
⟩⟩
Wolle
cjanik001
jumpugly
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💬 Re: Midwest/Model Expo Fireboat
4 days ago by 🇺🇸 chugalone100 ( Lieutenant Commander)
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THE SHAFT AND KEEL STRIP
For the propeller shaft, Model Expo supplied a Dumas Boat Running Hardware Kit #1269N along with a 1½" Dumas brass propeller. I expect this setup will perform very well during the sea trials.
To install the shaft, I first cut it to the exact length indicated on the blueprints. Once accurately sized, I secured it in place with epoxy, ensuring a rigid and properly aligned installation.
KEEL STRIP
For this step, I used two of the recommended 3/32" × 3/36" strips included in the kit. To achieve a clean bend and avoid cracking the fibers, I soaked the strips inside a 1½" PVC tube—a simple tool I keep in the shop specifically for this task—for several hours.
I’m sure many of you have a thousand different methods for bending wood, but this one has always worked well for me.
The soak allows the wood fibers—both lignin and cellulose—to relax and become much more pliable, making it easy to shape the strips precisely to the required contour. And of course, the Florida sun helps speed up the drying process once the strips are in place.
😎
For the propeller shaft, Model Expo supplied a Dumas Boat Running Hardware Kit #1269N along with a 1½" Dumas brass propeller. I expect this setup will perform very well during the sea trials.
To install the shaft, I first cut it to the exact length indicated on the blueprints. Once accurately sized, I secured it in place with epoxy, ensuring a rigid and properly aligned installation.
KEEL STRIP
For this step, I used two of the recommended 3/32" × 3/36" strips included in the kit. To achieve a clean bend and avoid cracking the fibers, I soaked the strips inside a 1½" PVC tube—a simple tool I keep in the shop specifically for this task—for several hours.
I’m sure many of you have a thousand different methods for bending wood, but this one has always worked well for me.
The soak allows the wood fibers—both lignin and cellulose—to relax and become much more pliable, making it easy to shape the strips precisely to the required contour. And of course, the Florida sun helps speed up the drying process once the strips are in place.
😎
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💬 Re: Midwest/Model Expo Fireboat
4 days ago by 🇺🇸 chugalone100 ( Lieutenant Commander)
Lieutenant Commander)✧ 49 Views · 8 Likes
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At the outset, I anticipated that the construction process would be relatively uncomplicated, given that the hull is assembled from pre-cut balsa components rather than employing conventional planking methods. In practice, however, the build presented a greater degree of complexity than expected.
THE KEEL
The keel consists of five discrete components, and its assembly is largely unambiguous thanks to the precision of the supplied blueprints, which provide clear dimensional references and alignment guidance.
However, this is precisely where my problems began—particularly due to the way the instructions advise the builder to cut and permanently glue the shoe.
The best solution I came up with was to design the shoe-to-keel connection so it would be fully removable, and the method I implemented accomplishes exactly that.
To achieve this, I routed a recess into the keel that matches the precise dimensions of the shoe. For this purpose, I used a piece of hardwood I had lying around the shop.
This modification allows the shoe to be fastened with screws—securely in place during operation, yet easily removed whenever maintenance or adjustments are needed. 😎
THE KEEL
The keel consists of five discrete components, and its assembly is largely unambiguous thanks to the precision of the supplied blueprints, which provide clear dimensional references and alignment guidance.
However, this is precisely where my problems began—particularly due to the way the instructions advise the builder to cut and permanently glue the shoe.
The best solution I came up with was to design the shoe-to-keel connection so it would be fully removable, and the method I implemented accomplishes exactly that.
To achieve this, I routed a recess into the keel that matches the precise dimensions of the shoe. For this purpose, I used a piece of hardwood I had lying around the shop.
This modification allows the shoe to be fastened with screws—securely in place during operation, yet easily removed whenever maintenance or adjustments are needed. 😎
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📝 Midwest/Model Expo Fireboat
4 days ago by 🇺🇸 chugalone100 ( Lieutenant Commander)
Lieutenant Commander)✧ 50 Views · 12 Likes · 8 Comments
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Model Expo has confirmed that production will soon begin on a new Midwest kit: the Fireboat, presented at a scale of 1/2" = 1 foot.
To clarify, Model Expo has acquired the licensing rights from Midwest to produce all of their models. At the moment, they have 27 kits in production, with more on the way. I previously worked with Model Expo in customer service, answering model-building questions and handling replacement-part requests. Now, I am one of the model builders who assemble their prototypes—the models they intend to release to the public.
With that being said, I invite all of you to follow along with this build. I introduced only a limited number of modifications—mostly to make the vessel more suitable for radio-control operation and to enhance its realism—while preserving the essential character of the original design.
Many of you have probably built this classic kit before; however, this is my first time working with it. Please feel free to share your opinions and past experiences with this charming little model.
History of the Fireboats
This model represents a small fireboat equipped with twin monitors, a type of vessel historically stationed in nearly every major working harbor throughout the United States and abroad. Its configuration is based on a combination of plans and photographic references from several representative examples. Because of this, it serves as an accurate portrayal of the smaller fireboats—many of which are still in service in various ports today.
😎
To clarify, Model Expo has acquired the licensing rights from Midwest to produce all of their models. At the moment, they have 27 kits in production, with more on the way. I previously worked with Model Expo in customer service, answering model-building questions and handling replacement-part requests. Now, I am one of the model builders who assemble their prototypes—the models they intend to release to the public.
With that being said, I invite all of you to follow along with this build. I introduced only a limited number of modifications—mostly to make the vessel more suitable for radio-control operation and to enhance its realism—while preserving the essential character of the original design.
Many of you have probably built this classic kit before; however, this is my first time working with it. Please feel free to share your opinions and past experiences with this charming little model.
History of the Fireboats
This model represents a small fireboat equipped with twin monitors, a type of vessel historically stationed in nearly every major working harbor throughout the United States and abroad. Its configuration is based on a combination of plans and photographic references from several representative examples. Because of this, it serves as an accurate portrayal of the smaller fireboats—many of which are still in service in various ports today.
😎
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📝 Juanita inverted ventilation pipes
4 days ago by 🇺🇸 chugalone100 ( Lieutenant Commander)
Lieutenant Commander)✧ 20 Views · 2 Likes
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Alessandro:
My other passion—besides restoring cars and building model ships—is oil painting, specifically abstract figurative work. This style combines recognizable, real-world subjects with non-realistic, distorted, or fragmented forms.
I also love to fly single engine planes and skydive.
These are some of my paintings.
😎
My other passion—besides restoring cars and building model ships—is oil painting, specifically abstract figurative work. This style combines recognizable, real-world subjects with non-realistic, distorted, or fragmented forms.
I also love to fly single engine planes and skydive.
These are some of my paintings.
😎
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📝 Juanita inverted ventilation pipes
4 days ago by 🇺🇸 chugalone100 ( Lieutenant Commander)
Lieutenant Commander)✧ 20 Views · 2 Likes
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Alessandro:
For now, that question will have to stay up in the air, since this is my first time building this type of vessel. I’m not an expert in R/C electronics or controls, and that’s the main reason I’m here on this forum. I’ll be able to fully answer your question once my Juanita takes her first sea trials.
I’m mostly a builder and a painter. For example, I restored a 1973 Volkswagen Beetle Type I entirely by myself in my backyard—an ordeal that took me 18 years to complete. The first time I entered it into a competition, it won “Best of Show.” Every single part of that Beetle was rebuilt by me, even all of the interior.
Here it is.
😎
For now, that question will have to stay up in the air, since this is my first time building this type of vessel. I’m not an expert in R/C electronics or controls, and that’s the main reason I’m here on this forum. I’ll be able to fully answer your question once my Juanita takes her first sea trials.
I’m mostly a builder and a painter. For example, I restored a 1973 Volkswagen Beetle Type I entirely by myself in my backyard—an ordeal that took me 18 years to complete. The first time I entered it into a competition, it won “Best of Show.” Every single part of that Beetle was rebuilt by me, even all of the interior.
Here it is.
😎
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📝 Juanita inverted ventilation pipes
5 days ago by 🇺🇸 chugalone100 ( Lieutenant Commander)
Lieutenant Commander)✧ 23 Views · 2 Likes
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Alessandro,
This model will be fully R/C and equipped with plenty of working lights. It hasn’t been an easy build—especially the railings, which took me quite a long time to complete. I’ve also added several of my own modifications, such as the pilothouse navigation lights and the catwalk that runs from the main structure to the push knees.
😎
This model will be fully R/C and equipped with plenty of working lights. It hasn’t been an easy build—especially the railings, which took me quite a long time to complete. I’ve also added several of my own modifications, such as the pilothouse navigation lights and the catwalk that runs from the main structure to the push knees.
😎
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