The next problem was both Turnigy ESCs burnt out! Not simultaneously, but in quick succession. Have no idea why. They were well protected by fuses and generously sized for the motors and screws.
Anyway, HobbyKing refunded the purchase. Obtained two more ESCs, but this time from Banggood. Had several premature Turnigy failures last year; time to try something else.
The Banggood ones worked straight out of the box. They do not require programming and operate simply in Fwds or reverse; no beeps, punch mode, throttle setting or other complications.
Just as well as my Turnigy ESC programming card had, by now, also failed!
These ESCs are basic and do not have a low voltage alarm or cut-off. When using LI-Po batteries it is essential one be added to protect LiPo cells from inadvertent full discharge damage.
Once these ESCs were installed was immediately impressed at the improvement in control. They could be fully modulated from the Tx lever. The Turnigy ones were much coarser and the hull could not be safely docked, it can now.
The drivetrain trials and tribulations were resolved, the model sailed well throughout several runs. It is not as fast as the Brave Borderer, but with only two screws it is lighter and easier to control. It also planes easily.
Although the original vessel had twin screws that rotated in the same direction, decided to cheat and install contra-rotating screws. Experience with the Brave B. steering shows it is sensitive and felt this might make the model more predictable and also reduce any βdigging inβ tendency on turns.
Quite enjoy running a bare hull as it is not susceptible to minor damage. All marks can be cleaned off during the build programme.
Parked the model for the onset of the winter, when will complete it. The pictures show the final tests in Hamilton Harbour.