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Registered
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Last Online
29th Nov 2025

LewZ

Member Stats

Stats
Member No.	#	6724
Registered	📅	23rd Jan 2022
Last Online	📅	29th Nov 2025
City	📍	Clearwater, Florida
Country	🇺🇸	United States
Gender	♂️	Male
Age	👶	81
Posts	💬	1140
Followers	📣	10
Likes Received	👍	4489
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Lew Zee (LewsModelBoats.org)

About

Retired senior designer of test/production equipment and CAD Operations Specialist. Hobbies: RC scale model boats; RC scale armor; 3D modeling & 3D printing; web site design and maintenance.

Members Harbour

Springer #4 USACOE Stoplog

This is my fourth Springer tug. It was built to resemble the U.S. Army's Corps of Engineers stoplog tug located at Little Goose Dam in Washington State. The scale is about 1/17. The model had to be modified slightly because the length to beam ratio between the real tug and a Springer are slightly different. This keeps the model within the Springer class rules.

LewZ

2 years ago

10 Attributes

3 Comments

Modular Barge Set

In order for my truckable push boat ("Springer") to move something I built this modular barge (which are individually truckable). This is one piece but has slits to simulate the joining groves and seams which results in the look of four modules fastened together. Eventually I will have the working crane tied down to the deck. The crane in the photo is the "before" view. It now is significantly modified with an extended boom and other changes.

LewZ

2 years ago

1 Attribute

4 Comments

Small work barge

I built this barge to go with my 1/35 scale towboat. It is made of 1/2 inch plywood hull and a 1/4 inch plywood deck. There is a grid of Neodymium magnets spaced on and imbedded flus with the deck. This barge can be used by itself with different scale boats or used as a 1/35 scale barge with the accessories added. First accessory was the workshop (detailed inside), a pickup truck, toilet, and trash can. Latest (2022) addition is the gantry crane as shown in the photos.

LewZ

2 years ago

1 Attribute

5 Comments

Large Coal Barge

I salvage this large (5 foot - 152cm) barge from the trash heap from a model boat club (BAEB) that closed. It was used for competition towing contests. From the deck up I completely re-renovated it to represent a coal barge. The "coal" is the "oil dry" granules cemented on a panel of carved foam on a plywood thin plywood base and painted flat black. It is removable so weight (bricks, water bottles, etc.) can be added inside the hull. Total weight is well over 100 pounds -(45kg). The sturdy hull and deck is heavy plywood that has been fiber glassed.

LewZ

2 years ago

1 Attribute

5 Comments

Emma C. Berry

This model is from the Sterling (USA) model kit of the same name. It was one of my first models built in the early 1970's. I had planned it to be R/C by adding some keel weights and fiber glassed the hull as the kit hull material was 1/8 inch balsa sheet sections on frame. The hull is quite solid, sealed, and has a smooth finish. Basically everything is built to the kits instructions with a number of additional details. These 2023 photos reflect a number of years (50+) it has been sitting on my shelf above my Civil War desk (my build) so pardon the dust.

LewZ

2 years ago

1 Attribute

3 Comments

Springer #4 (US Army Corps of Engineers tug)

This "Springer" is based on the "Stoplog" tug used a the Little Goose Dam in the USA COE Wall Walla district on the Snake River. From the deck up it replicates the real tug, and from the deck down follows the "Springer" regulations. (The hull components are from Zippkits.) Drawings were obtained from the marine architect and photographs from the internet as well as the boat builder. (Currently under construction.)

LewZ

2 years ago

8 Attributes

10 Comments

Piccadilly (Sailboat, 50/800 class)

The hull (along with 2 more, but never built) was purchased in 1975 during our visit to the U.K. Went directly to the builders small factory and arranged with Mr. Frank Parsons to ship the hulls (hulls, transoms, one deck) to our home in the U.S. Made the masts and sails, fin, rudder and the innards for it.

LewZ

3 years ago

0 Attributes

5 Comments

Herass (Sailboat, 50/800 class)

This is a commercial made (in the U.S. by Vortex), based on the real Soling competition boats. For mine, made two new masts and sails, one medium and one at the maximum height, both using the maximum sail area permitted.

LewZ

3 years ago

0 Attributes

4 Comments

Flat Chines (Sailboat, 50/800 class)

A scratch build based a small plans in Model Boat magazine back in the 1980s. The boat was a dismal sailer exceptunder a high wind when it would briefly get up on a plane and skid across the pond.

LewZ

3 years ago

0 Attributes

1 Comment

Frederick Mistral (aka "Duna)

Here is my partial build model of the Frederick Mistral. The kit was made by Anfora and for some reason they call it "Duna". What stopped me from continuing was the rudder control. This was via a chain that ran on both sides of the deck just inside the gunwale. This ran from the pilot house back to a cam like arm on the rudder post. there were a series of pulleys along the inside of the gunwale to keep the chain in place. My problem was that I could not find a small chain that could withstand the tension. I made a lot of corrections/modifications to it following photos of the real tug. This included many new/replacement parts that I had 3D printed by Shapeways. They are shown in the last three photos. This is an interest tug *(the historic original is still floating on the Danube River) and I wish I could finish it. Lew

LewZ

3 years ago

6 Attributes

5 Comments

My Web Site (LewsModelBoats.org)

My "Scale Model Boats" (and tanks... and more) web site is http://lewsmodelboats.org It goes into a lot of detail on my model boats, tanks, R/C, 3D modeling, 3D parts, tips, and beyond, including many photos and links to videos. Along the same line, I have YouTube channel "eymccauley" (American Civil War naval officer) link: https://www.youtube.com/c/eymccauley/videos where you can find videos of scale model boats, tanks, club meets here in Florida U.AS.A.) and more.

LewZ

3 years ago

0 Attributes

1 Comment

"Star Wars" Patrol Boat

As weird as it sounds I just can't seem to see a model boat go in the trash. In this case, you can see the derelict model in the first two photos. It's not very fast and has a low freeboard. I decided to have some fun with this one - the photos are evident as to what I did. (1/12 scale.) Lew

LewZ

3 years ago

0 Attributes

2 Comments

Ironclads of the U.S. Civil War (1861-1865)

Disclosure: First off, these are not my models, but that of the "Old Navy" Steve Lund and Bill Hathaway. I had the pleasure of meeting them in 2007 at the Monitor Center at the Mariners' Museum in Virginia, U.S.A. At that time I was involved in Civil War reenacting (role as a U.S. navy officer) and we were all participating at a special event. The "Old Navy" guys brought a trailer loaded with 1/35 scale R/C ironclad models. I am putting together this information in case others are interested in building a Civil War ironclad, and need more information. I thought I had more still photos of the models but these are all I found. The video shows many of the models. [Sure, the U.S was not the first country to have an ironclad but did have the first battle between the in March 1862. Between the north and the south about 66 ironclads were completed during these four years. Some quite simple and others quite out of the norm. If you want to build a U.S. ironclad check them out - the variety is amazing.] The first photo is the full scale replica (hollow) of the U.S.S. Monitor located behind the museum. The second photo is that of Steve (right) and Bill (left), middle person is unknown. They are standing in front of an accurate reproduction of the Monitor at 1/35 scale. It an R/C - powered model. The remaining photos are close-ups of the Monitor model. So here is my video link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GMnEmFW0XPk The video is a bit old but I think you get the idea. Steve and Bill made an excellent book, 'Modeling the Ironclads" which is available at: https://thenrgstore.org/products/modeling-the-ironclads . However you can preview it or print this out yourself you can download it at: https://walternelson.com/ironclads.pdf ps. I was going to build a 1/35 scale Monitor but got side tracked while searching for a way to make thick, black smoke which I could not find and this project eventually gave way to building other models.

LewZ

3 years ago

0 Attributes

1 Comment

Standard Oil Tug

Well, we all started somewhere! My first model boat (not including inexpensive model kits as a kid) was the Sterling kit, "Emma C. Berry." I had planned to R/C it including glassing the hull, but never got that far. So jumping forward to the next model I scaled up that little Standard oil tug kit "Despatch No. 9". I scaled it up to be 42 inches long and about 35 pounds in weight. Made mostly out of planked balsa with fiberglass covered hull it was not well done with many imperfections but from 10 feet away it looked good. Back then (early 1970's) there was not too many components available for large R/C scale models especially here in Florida, the "boonies" back then. I used a automobile heater motor for the drive and a servo driven three position switch for the speeds (low, medium, high) with power resistors. Another servo driven switch for forward, stop, and reverse. The radio was a four channel Heathkit that I had to build up. Power came from a 6V motorcycle battery. I enjoyed this boat for a few years. I bought the Graupner Schnellboot "Wiesel" in London in 1975, started it, but it took another 35 years before I finished it. Is that a record? Now the old tug sits up high on a shelf where it gets little notice. It reminds me to think about how the finished boat should not look. (Even the "S" on one side of the stack is up-side-down.) To make matters worse, I added some expanding foam under the deck for floatation - oops, needless to say I got more camber to the deck that I really wanted. Lew

LewZ

3 years ago

0 Attributes

3 Comments

Club Rescue Boat ("Miss Amelia"; scratch built; Scale: ~1/18)

What do you do with a boat hull that nobody wants, not in good condition, and not realistic looking? Build something different! This boat was the model for a "Balloon Boat". OK, this was a competitive one design boat where each boat had a balloon tied to the stern and a long prick on the front. The object was to puncture all the balloons and the last boat remaining with a balloon inflated was the winner. This was the prototype from which a mold was made and fiberglass hulls were produced. Now back to this boat... As you can see this hull has a weird shape and not built for speed. However it is very stable. By tearing out the guts and adding a Kort nozzle with a five blade prop yet trying to keep a "scale" appearance, this boat became the SSMBC's rescue boat. All it needed was a yoke to catch the disabled boat. Simple electronics, a stable platform, good power all makes for a good rescue boat. So far the record push for this boat is a 60 pound whaleback freighter.

LewZ

3 years ago

6 Attributes

7 Comments

PT61 Gunboat WWII (Frank's kit with major mods; Scale: 1/20)

This boat kit was started by buyer and passed though many hands until it finally reached me. The upper right phot (deck sitting next to the hull) is what it looked like when I got it.) Before starting I looked at the history of the PT-61. In the middle of WWII it was converted to a gunboat along with PT-59 & PT60. Trying to gather information took a long time before being able to start construction (which involved de-construction by the original owner). This is a heavy model but runs like the real one would because of all the armor, guns, and ammo on board. Yes, the real PT-61 did have two 40mm Bofors and sixteen 50 caliber BMGs. All three motors work, the outer two run through ESCs and the center one has a servo driven on/off switch running forward only on another channel.

LewZ

3 years ago

7 Attributes

16 Comments

Springer #3 (Zip Kits; Scale: 1/18)

This Springer (Jo Ann) is my third Springer build, I made it for my son. It is based on a real truckable pushboat but one that I saw within about 1,000 feet from where we operate our model boats (Lake Seminole Park, Florida). To get the real one in the water it had to pass the pond within a 100 feet of the road. I took a lot of photos of it from the shore and planned out how to build the model.

LewZ

3 years ago

8 Attributes

2 Comments

Springer #2 (Zipp Kits; Scale: ~1/25)

Ah, the "Skeleton Crew" Bill E. Bones! This Springer obviously has a comical theme. Unfortunately it is kind of top heavy and wind is its enemy. I will probably make an alternate structure for it. Bad planning!

LewZ

3 years ago

0 Attributes

6 Comments

Springer #1 (Zipp kits - Scale: 1/18)

Looking for a fun boat? Take a look at the Springer type tugs. Zipp Kits is one manufacture that makes the Springer easy to build and inexpensive. You can easily scratch build on yourself. I bought four of these. At 18 inches long they are small and "turn on a dime" and can be quite quirky like trying to ride a wild horse - a lot of fun. You can build them in almost any style (above the deck) from looking like a real truckable pushboat (like this model) to something completely zany. Let you imagination run its course. If you follow the regulations/specifications, these boats are meant to be "one-design" that is from the deck down there as rules and dimensions that apply so the boats can compete in water sports and racing. This one is base on a real pushboat that I found on the internet. The cabin can rise up thanks to some old inkjet printer parts I save a while back.

LewZ

3 years ago

7 Attributes

3 Comments

Modular Barge (Scratch build; Scale: ~1/16)

Want to build a barge to go with a Springer tug? Modular barges are truckable, that is they can be brought to a site, unloaded, fastened together to make a larger barge or bridge of almost any configuration. The real ones come in several sizes, 10 X 10, 10 X 20, and 10 X 40 (feet), X 5 feet high, are the most common sizes. A variety of accessories can be added. Mine is actually one barge scored to look like four 10 X 20 barges tied together. It is made out of wood (34" sides, ends, X 1/4" top and bottom with some weight added internally.

LewZ

3 years ago

0 Attributes

2 Comments

Members Blogs

3 Posts

3 Followers

46 Likes

Jim's Model Boat Launcher / Retriever

Finally tired of using my launcher (PVC pipe and fittings) and had SSMBC member build me a special one. (He has made a bunch of his version.) I am taller than him and have some back issues so I got one about 5 inches taller. The photo here shows it as I got it today at the meet. Need to prep and paint and add padding. It is made using 1/2 and 3/4" EMT steel and can handle at least 80 pounds. Lew Florida , USA

LewZ

6 months ago

1 Post

1 Follower

6 Likes

Modifying a Posable (jointed) Figure to Loo Realistic

I just posted a video on how to modify a Bruder figure to look more realistic on YouTube. This also can apply to other figures that have flexible joints as well. The YouTube link is below. Lew Florida , USA️ https://youtu.be/TvrWWmZOI-U

LewZ

2 years ago

5 Posts

4 Followers

41 Likes

Star Wars Patrol Boat (1/6 scale)

This is a model I built several years ago. Someone gave me an old wood hull which I turned into an experimental boat, and wound up being a Star Wars Storm Trooper patrol boat. I generally don't do many "funny" boats and try to keep everything to scale. I believe this is a good example of making a comical boat to scale (no stuffed animals, etc.). It never performed well as it was small and the six "C" cell battery pack weighted the boat down giving very little freeboard (about 3/8 inch) and a slow speed. I decided to replace the 3000MAH 7.2V Nimh battery with a 2S Li-ion 3500MAH &.4V battery. Last Sunday I took it to the SSMBC meet and it went very well but after 50 feet it died. (It was the motor.) So that is now replace and it will be over two weeks to the next meet. So, in the mean time I took some photos of the fix-up and "innards". In particular you can see the adapter I made to fit the 2S battery where the hobby battery sat. It is 3D printed. I placed the file on "Thingiverse" (link below) in case anyone else is interested. I plan to get some videos at the next meet. Lew Florida , USA https://www.thingiverse.com/search?q=7.2V+Hobby+Battery+adapter+for+2S+Li-ion+&page=1

LewZ

2 years ago

2 Posts

6 Followers

23 Likes

Automatic Bilge Pump for RC Boats

I just finished putting together a circuit, testing it and creating a video for an automatic bilge pump. This circuit can also be used to trigger a warning light or noise/sound. Easy to build and inexpensive. The video shows the pump working. Enjoy! Lew Florida ️, USA https://youtu.be/l32YRTsu4Ho

LewZ

2 years ago

2 Posts

8 Followers

29 Likes

Display Case for Model Boats

I thought you fellow model boaters might be interested in how I built a case for my Wiesel "Schnellboot". It certainly keeps the dust off. I have posted this on a build blog, hopefully it will be easy to find in the future. First, the Wiesel model is 42 inches long by 7 inches wide X 16 inches high. In designing the case I wanted a clear unobstructed side view of the model which demands a single large pane. Therefore the model has to be removed via a side panel, and in this case I decided to make both ends to open. I also wanted clear top to allow light in. Rather than use expensive wood, I opted for widely available lumber (white wood) which I would stain to a Walnut color. I used "1 by XX" lumber which is about 3/4 inch thick. This case is symmetrical (except for the doors swing) so it could be set in the middle of a room and viewed all around. The base is 3/4" X 12" X 54". The other pieces are 3/4" X 1 inch by various lengths. The model sits on a removable base and stand stained to the same Walnut color. I found one of the local plastics distributors sells 4 ft X 8 ft plexiglass sheets about .100 inch thick. for a small extra charge (by the cut) they have an accurate and quick saw that did a great job. I made the drawing (attached) for the cuts and a few days later picked up the panels. Found some nice brass latches and hinges for the end doors in a local store. The wood is cut to the needed sizes. Using my table saw I made the grooves for the panels to slide into. My sawblade was slightly wider that the thickness of the panels. Note that I did not glue the panels in place. Everything held pretty good. When moving the case take the model out to avoid breaking the joints. I also added some corner bracings in the top to side corners (see photo). Steps: 1 - Determine the size and make drawings for the wood and plexiglass. 2 - Obtain materials 3 - Cut the wood pieces. 4 - Stain the wood pieces except for where they are glued to make strong joints. 5 - Assemble sliding the panes into the grooves. Glue joint. I used a pneumatic nail gun to make the joints stronger as well as making the assembly faster. 6 - Varnish the finish, masking off the panes. (Do some thinking ahead on some of the pieces on the inside of the case before assembly.) 7 - Enjoy your model in its new home. I also made a matching box for the fluorescent tube lights (they didn't have good LED strips back when I built this) that sits on top of the case. Good lighting is recommended. Photos: 01 - Full side. 02 - Corner view. 03 - Door latch. 04 - Internal corner brace (1 of 4). 05 - Slightly different corner view with model slid out slightly. 06 - Top of case. 07 - Top of case (light on). 08 - Full side (light on). 09 - Display case drawing. 10 - Layout drawing for cutting panes. Let me know if you have any questions. Lew Florida , USA

LewZ

2 years ago

1 Post

2 Followers

9 Likes

Modular Barge - Model Construction

With the great responses to my recent posting on my "Modular Barge" I would like to share my construction information. The instructions are in the PDF. I have attached the photos here as well to they can be zoomed in on. Any questions, feel free to ask! Lew Florida ️, USA

LewZ

2 years ago

2 Posts

3 Followers

14 Likes

Springer #1 - Making an elevating pilot house

I thought I would put together a video on this title. It follows the concept of making something travel a linear distance with limit stops on both ends. The belt and pulleys are from an old HP inkjet printer. (Lots of usable parts in these discarded printers.) This Springer is based on a real boat using four photographs. Enjoy! Lew Florida, USA https://youtu.be/ny1ukVCP4Gc?si=VifrtoZ9wqx6hixZ

LewZ

2 years ago

13 Posts

10 Followers

113 Likes

Building a Scale Model "Springer" push boat

Many of us have seen or heard of the "Springer" push boat (a.k.a., tug, truckable boat, etc.). Most of them are not scale models but still built to the enjoyment of the owner. This blog deals with how I build "Springers" to look like a scale model of some real boats. I will deal with some of the issues as well as ideas for searching for you own "scale model Springer". Follow this blog as I build my latest "Springer", a US Army Corps of Engineers truckable push boat working at the Little Goose Dam in Washington State where it moves river debris to the "stoplog" gates. Lew Florida, USA Here is the introduction video: https://youtu.be/bZZJOWAsU0Y

LewZ

6 months ago

4 Posts

5 Followers

15 Likes

Atlantic "Tug" [sic] Restoration

Hi all... A while back I was given two Atlantic "Tugs" (by separate people). One was in very good condition (but with the old FM radio) which I passed on to another member and the other is the subject for this post. These Atlantic "tugs" [sic] have a very toy like design, especially the hull's gunwale (curve) when viewed from the side. That being said, I would like to restore it, probably to another type boat as I don't want to start cutting the gunwale. to flatten it some. Now the condition of everything is fair and the hull is pretty solid. (The hole in the bow area is a chop job done by the previous owner to install a bow thruster.) Everything is dirty bun ca be cleaned up. It is missing the wheelhouse. I would like to re-use (modify?) the superstructure. So, here's where all of you come in. Given the shape of the hull and structure, do any of you have any ideas what this could be made into based on a real boat's looks? (If there are any real tugs in the style/looks, could you pass that info on to me?) Thanks, Lew

LewZ

3 years ago

1 Post

4 Followers

18 Likes

Beam Trawler Build (single drag net)

I have been asked by Mike (on this forum) on how I made the fish net for my trawler, so I decided to enter this in a build blog for anyone else to view. Building a trawler was not one of my priorities in building RC scale model boats. However I came across a deal I could not pass up and this partially built boat (33-inch long Artesania Latina “Helen”) was part of the package. Despite the tall masts and netting, this is a very good sailing boat, forward and backward. I renamed the boat “Elena” with “H-103” as the registry number simulating that it would be out of Hull Harbor, U.K. When I decided to continue the build (after some de-construction) from the deck up, I also looked into similar real boats off the east coast of the U.K. I downloaded photos and information on how these drag trawlers operated and the type of nets and equipment on board. (I am not a commercial fisherman so I’m sure someone will correct me here.) It looked like this type of trawler is called a “beam trawler” where the boom holds the horizontal “beam” that spreads the net apart. The net is open on the front end with the top edge strung with floats (here, beads) and the bottom edge with weights (here small fishing line sinkers). The top edge is pretty much aligned with the beam and the bottom edge is longer so it allows the net to open. My understanding is that this type of trawler would lower the net in shallow water and drag the net along the bottom. I started with using wedding veil material for the net. Probably should have used a darker color but my choice was limited, so we have a “new” net. As the net would be scrunched up on the deck it made no sense to make it too long. The bottom end is just folded and the sides are hand stitched. Supporting lines were added to the top and bottom leading edges to “strengthen” the net as well as hold the floats and weights. All the rigging is different with emphasis on making this look like a working boat. This includes numerous blocks and tackle. A few markers (floats, photo 7) are on the deck as they were commonly used. The three man crew (Tamiya 1/20 scale pit crew) seems to be handling everything well. The fish are a combination of plastic fish (photo 6) supplemented by some that I printed on my color printer and laminated with a little filler in-between to give the depth. For anyone interested I have a 2015 "on board" video on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qxh6vW4SbOc . Lew

LewZ

3 years ago

1 Post

1 Follower

5 Likes

Airbrush Cleaning Solution

I found an excellent and inexpensive airbrush cleaning solution (for acrylic paints). The link is https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I7afdu2tgXA however here are the ingredients: Distilled water - 3 parts Window cleaner ("Windex" or equiv. with ammonia) - 2 parts Isopropyl alcohol 91% - 1 part Glycerin 1 drops for each 15ml of water In my case I used a 60ml plastic jar as follows: Filled with the water to 30ml Added window cleaner to 50ml Added alcohol to 60ml Added 4 drops glycerin Works great on slightly dried (several minutes) paint, much better than acrylic thinner. Will not remove time dried paint. Lew

LewZ

3 years ago

1 Post

1 Follower

8 Likes

Mini Bar Clamps for Model Builders

I had a need for several sets of bar clamps with about 6 -6 inches capacity. The only ones I saw were too heavy or expensive so I designed a set with a few extra features and made a handful via one of my 3D printers. I have the STL files on my site for FREE downloads as well as two YouTube videos, one an intro and the other a how to build. Here are the links: Intro: http://lewsmodelboats.org/Mini-Bar-Clamp.htm Make: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n91onP_e3M4 Downloads: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CrujDxf_a-4 I hope they are of use to others. Lew

LewZ

3 years ago

1 Post

1 Follower

4 Likes

Working with ABS - Lengthening a Hull

The Dusseldorf (FLB 2) model fire boat kit was originally produced by Robbe and now sold under the name Krick. The kit is based on the original configuration as the fire boat was built in 1965. In 1979 (well over 40 years ago) the original Dusseldorf was significantly modified and one of the modifications was the hull being lengthened significantly. The increased length is about 200mm (8 inches) in the model's hull. In order to increase the hull's length it had to be cut into two pieces (across the beam near the middle (lengthwise). In the video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X5_Hh1uIlG4) of this process you will see the steps I used to modify the ABS hull. Additional help, information, and updates are posted on my web site: https://lewsmodelboats.org/M-Fire-Boat-Dusseldorf-2-Index.htm This video may be helpful to others needing to modify ABS hulls as it deals with cementing and filling ABS including adhesion (weld type) with ABS 3D printed parts, and styrene, both extrusions and sheet.

LewZ

3 years ago

Recent Posts

📝 No motor coupling

16 hours ago by 🇺🇸 LewZ (

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I'd post a photo of my motorcycle but it doesn't look too pretty with the front wheel folded up against the engine. 55 years ago someone (drinking) decided to pull out in front of me. Still limping from the injury. However, it could have been much worse. Memories... thanks for posting. Ride safe.

Lew

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📝 Than You

2 days ago by 🇺🇸 LewZ (

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Today in the US it is our traditional "Thanksgiving Day." Just a short note to say to my fellow scale model boaters I want to say that you for the advice you have given me and others. Thanks to you who have asked for assistance with issues. Thanks for sharing experiences, photos, and videos. And, a big thanks to our host for maintaining this informative and critical forum.
Lew

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💬 Re: Motorlife boat 47

2 days ago by 🇺🇸 LewZ (

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Really nice build! I was given a USCG 47er and planned on converting it to the Canadian version (more colorful). However left it as a USCG cutter. I started tinkering with adding more electronics. Only one USCG 47er was painted white (like the model). The rest were left with a bare aluminum finish. It would be difficult to paint it with an aluminum color with all the anti-slip pads on it.
For some reason these boats like to take on water when running. Problem probably caused by the step down sides.
Lew
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📝 Question of the Day?

3 days ago by 🇺🇸 LewZ (

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I am amazed at the nautical knowledge of the people that answer these questions. Their internet skills are outstanding.
Lew

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📝 And Now For Something Completely Different

5 days ago by 🇺🇸 LewZ (

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All of my tanks are Heng Long. They are cheap but well detailed. All of them have been repainted and I never use the stick on markings. I make my own decals. Also, I look at photos of real tanks to model after.

That M1 Abrams in the photo was modeled after a tank in Desert Storm call "Absolute Death". I upgraded the motors and changed to metal gears and put a slipring so the turret can turn continuously.

Tamiya makes 1/16 scale kits that can be upgraded to rc. They are about four times the price of a Heng Long.

There are other RTR tanks that run from three to five times the cost of the Heng Long tanks. Some even more.

Lew

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📝 Graupner Wiesel

5 days ago by 🇺🇸 LewZ (

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I forgot to mention tat when I did the 3 to 4 motors and shafts upgraded over 13 years ago, I installed Graupner Speed 300 brushed motors.

Lew

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📝 Graupner Wiesel

5 days ago by 🇺🇸 LewZ (

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Yeah, the Weisel was my dreamboat too! In the early 1970's I was getting Model Boats magazine and I saw a small photo of the Wiesel (142) and liked it. Then Graupner upgraded the kit to the 142A version when the real Schnellboots were upgraded. When I saw the upgraded version it became a "must have".

Right after that I got married and had our honeymoon in Europe. "Coincidentally", I found a hobby shop in London that had the Weisel in stock. Needless to say I had it shipped to our home in Florida.

It ran very slowly (langsamboot ?) on the three original motors. I upgraded the boat to four motors years ago but it still ran slow. I made new propellers which is what I think the problem is. I just need the time to get to it.

Lew

Here is a link to my Wiesel video (kind of old) where some of it was recorded on board:

https://youtu.be/2qXxHWv0GO8?si=DO-sdEA4y8rPbl8r

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📝 And Now For Something Completely Different

6 days ago by 🇺🇸 LewZ (

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Finally got my Abrams tank running and to our tank meet today. I need to do a radio upgrade and was testing it. The existing radio wasn't working and found one of the transmitter's battery contacts eroded. Now it is back to boats for the next meet. A real seesaw.

Lew

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📝 Graupner Wiesel

7 days ago by 🇺🇸 LewZ (

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Aha! My favorite model boat. The Zobel class "Schnellboots" (upgraded in the 1970's) are the perfect designed water craft. Sleek,fast, and loaded with electronics. Built for nuclear war with wash down systems.

However, Graupner made a number of errors in the details. I made a number of changes to mine including changing the motors and shafts going to four. I did have a lot of information on my website on upgrading this boat to reflect the original, but because of the internet server expense I had to shut it down. Hopefully I will get this up and running soon, as I found a new server service about 1/3 my previous cost.

I actually started to rework my Wiesel when we were hit by a hurricane over a year ago. I am including photos of how it looks today.

Lew

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📝 How do you create the coiled ropes?

9 days ago by 🇺🇸 LewZ (

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Kind of a very simple topic. How to coil a rope? Very much like coiling a real rope, only a lot smaller and using some glue to hold it in place. No brainer, no tooling!

As for what it should look like when done, that's easy as well. Look at photos or drawings of the boat style and period being modeled. Just like everything else. A much more interesting topic would be something like how to correctly model a flag on boat.

I wasn't going to post anything on this silly topic but I am adding some closeup "coiled (and other) rope" photos of my PT61 build to show what I mean.

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📝 Question of the Day?

9 days ago by 🇺🇸 LewZ (

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Roy, I really agree with you on some posts ("...so often "I agree" with no real offering or constructive information."). Other comments like "I really dont' have much time to work on my model..." yet they seem to have a lot of time creating length posts using a large amount of info cut and paste from othe web sites. I guess these types of people can't be creative in their own.
Lew

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📝 How do you create the coiled ropes?

10 days ago by 🇺🇸 LewZ (

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Chug - on the stern. Lew

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📝 How do you create the coiled ropes?

10 days ago by 🇺🇸 LewZ (

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Chug... that sub chaser looks great. One little detail is the flag should have a 48 star flag. Thanks for sharing the photos. Lew

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📝 How do you create the coiled ropes?

10 days ago by 🇺🇸 LewZ (

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Close Doug. Not actual radii but a very long spline.
Lew

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📝 No motor coupling

11 days ago by 🇺🇸 LewZ (

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One idea for a coupling is a short section of Tygon type hose (commonly like that used on small fueled engines, grass edgers, etc). This was supplied by Zippkits for Springers). It was held in place with a collar on each end. The collar fitted over the tubing and the setscrew tightened into the tube over the shafts.

The idea was good but it required the shafts to be the same diameter. For me, on the first two Springers I built both failed when the tubing twisted.

I use Dumas "Dogbones" on the majority of my boats.

Lew

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📝 Tools

12 days ago by 🇺🇸 LewZ (

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Just five minutes ago I was cutting out a 1/8 inch plywood bulkhead in one of my Springers to add a new item. Having some problems to make the cut in a confined space I was using a hacksaw blade but it was too springy.

I am probably not the first one to do this but I thought I would share this with you all anyway: Modify a hacksaw blade, new or the less used ends of old blades, and cut into shorter length pieces. Modify (grind) one end to fit into the large XActo handle. You can make an assortment of lengths and teeth per inch.

Lew

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LIBERTY CAPTAIN

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📝 No motor coupling

12 days ago by 🇺🇸 LewZ (

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...also there are couplings that allows small amounts of misalignment. Some are not much bigger than a regular coupling and do not require the space of a double u-joint, good for tight places.

The styles and sizes are too numerous to list but if you search "small electric motor coupling" you can see many of them.

Lew

Example:

https://share.google/Cu6lIpytRxumyXAtq

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📝 No motor coupling

12 days ago by 🇺🇸 LewZ (

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This is a question that comes up now and then. I was given a RTR model that had that. A setup like that requires everything to be precise. Even if one replaces the motor it is very hard to get that perfect alignment. To pad or shock mount or shim the motor might help.

But back to replacing the motor, which is not uncommon, would a time consuming process.

Lew

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📝 SSMBC (Seminole, Florida) meet, Nov 16, 2025

13 days ago by 🇺🇸 LewZ (

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Another meet with great weather. Perfect temperature with no wind at the start but a mild breeze came in for anyone sailing.
We had the docks (first time in many, many years). Going to work on a better and faster solution to fasten them together and use them more often.
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📝 And Now For Something Completely Different

15 days ago by 🇺🇸 LewZ (

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Any photos of the Conquerer? Lew

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📝 Motor Mounts

15 days ago by 🇺🇸 LewZ (

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I generally 3D design and print my own motor mounts, servo mounts and most everything that goes inside the hull. The photos are my Graupner "Dusseldorf" fireboat under complete rebuild (if I can get back to it).

Even if you buy motor mounts you still need to fasten them to something. This method (3D work) is easier for me. Temporarily hold the motor(s) in place, take measurements, then make the mounts.

Lew

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📝 Early Radio Control Experiences

16 days ago by 🇺🇸 LewZ (

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Ah.... the old days! Back when we took the creative path. Still some kids do that, but there are too many "easy" paths which has lead to the downfall of many hobbies.

Lew

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📝 Tools

18 days ago by 🇺🇸 LewZ (

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Yes Bob, they did a decent job on designing this workstation. A bit heavy to log around especially after adding tools in the storage compartments but that also makes it stable.
Lew

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📝 And Now For Something Completely Different

18 days ago by 🇺🇸 LewZ (

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Bob... sounds good! We meet two Sundays a month for rc scale boats (SSMBC) and two other Sundays for armor (Bay Area Blitzkrieg). Pretty active with both.
As for my armor, I need to fix and upgrade my Abrams. It is based on a real Desert Storm tank photo. I have two Sherman M4A3 (105) and am getting a third, plus a M3 half track. This will be for my howitzer platoon. I also have a M26 Pershing and a "captured King Tiger" complete with Zimmerit. All have been repainted, remarked and accessories added.
Lew

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📝 And Now For Something Completely Different

18 days ago by 🇺🇸 LewZ (

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✧ 48 Views · 9 Likes

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OK Doug, not a lengthy report. The WWII event was well attended, probably in excess of 6,000 people. I only went Saturday and I'm glad I did. There was a heavy rain on Sunday. We had a nice setup for our RC tanks. 100's of kids got a chance of being a "tank driver". Needless to say, we have to make a lot of repairs. The big battle was OK, I've seen better. The big booms frightened my grandson. For me, I enjoyed the sounds of those Sherman's with the radial engines running across the field.

Lew

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📝 Back to Model Boat Building (replaced 3D printers)

18 days ago by 🇺🇸 LewZ (

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Thanks for the kind words Mike. Still sorting things out in our home but my modeling is gradually picking speed. Tonight my 3D printer is busy making accessories to stoe tools properly as well as repair work on the tanks and boats.

I still have not made any videos in over a year (before the hurricane). Lots of catch-up things lay ahead.

Lew

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📝 Tools

18 days ago by 🇺🇸 LewZ (

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Here (photos, info) is that amazing portable hobby work station I had mentioned earlier. It was sold by Lowe's (a large home improvement chain here in North America) under their brand "Kobalt". It was not sold very long. Bought this about 16 years ago.

Lew

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📝 Tools

21 days ago by 🇺🇸 LewZ (

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I heading over to a WWII event today. I have a rather unusual portable setup with clamping jaws, tool storage, etc. made by Lowe's some years ago. Great for "in the field repairs". Will get a photo or two posted later.

Lew

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📝 Tug Amsterdam (by Billings?)

22 days ago by 🇺🇸 LewZ (

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✧ 23 Views · 1 Like

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The box had "Amsterdam" on it but I have not seen it on the net. Lew

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📝 Tug Amsterdam (by Billings?)

23 days ago by 🇺🇸 LewZ (

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✧ 56 Views · 3 Likes

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At our last SSMBC meet someone came and gave away a Billing Amsterdam tug kit, 1:50 scale (plank on frame). Can't find much information on this boat. I do see a lot on the Artesania Latina tug, same scale. A little puzzled.
Lew

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