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    Model Boats Website
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    Registered
    8th Jun 2022
    Last Online
    2nd Dec 2023
    River Rat
    Member Stats
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    Member No.#7103
    Registered📅8th Jun 2022
    Last Online📅2nd Dec 2023
    City📍Louisville KY
    Country🇺🇸United States
    Gender♂️Male
    Age👶64
    Posts💬384
    Followers📣12
    Likes Received👍1784
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    👍 Likes (rcv'd)11,784
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    Members Harbour
    Typhoon
    I just love this boat, the double enders are so sleek and classic. Dripping with beautiful mahogany
    River Rat
    7 days ago
    11 Attributes
    6 Comments
    Tow vehicle
    Tow car is finished. I have 4 servos to raise and lower the car like hydraulics. I raise it to tow and then drop it when it's just sitting. It was found at a yard sale for $5.00. I upgraded all the electronics added lights and sound.
    River Rat
    7 days ago
    0 Attributes
    3 Comments
    Chris Craft trailer stand
    Another trailer project scratch built for my 1930 CC. I had a lot of fun building these trailers. Now I need to build another boat so I can build another trailer
    River Rat
    5 months ago
    0 Attributes
    9 Comments
    Trailer for SK
    This was a fun project! Working on the tow vehicle now. This makes a really neat stand it gives it a whole new look! RR
    River Rat
    7 months ago
    0 Attributes
    2 Comments
    Hallet SK Drag ski boat
    I had a ton of fun with this project! I had a lot of input from my grand kids on this one. They got to help with all the major decisions on colors. We used crayons to picture it. They matched the figures up too. Thanks to all on this site! Dave RR
    River Rat
    9 months ago
    0 Attributes
    4 Comments
    1930 Chris craft runabout ( Driftwood)
    This was my first mahogany boat build. Now I really want to do more of them. This is a Dumas kit and was a pretty tough build. ( Build log is on this site) I really enjoy working on the wooden boats.
    River Rat
    11 months ago
    10 Attributes
    9 Comments
    Miller American Hydroplane
    Pulled this old friend out of storage. This was my first build. Still looking good after all these years. Going to reinstall all the missing rc gear and nitro motor ( robbed years ago) and get her back on the water.
    River Rat
    1 year ago
    1 Attribute
    2 Comments
    Mount Washington
    Just finished this build, took 6 months to complete. Looking for my next project possibly the Delta Queen? Anybody have one for sale? This Dumas kit was a pretty good kit. I was lucky to find a fiberglass hull version from 2001. Its fully functional rc. I love the hobby and am glad to see its still doing great after all these years. Thanks, Dave
    River Rat
    1 year ago
    0 Attributes
    4 Comments
    Miss Madison
    I had a lot of fun finishing this hydro I started 20yrs ago. Finished it with 3s and traxxas electronics. Not super fast but fun! The building part is what I enjoy the most. The wood Allison engine fits over the radio box and somewhat kept water out.
    River Rat
    1 year ago
    9 Attributes
    3 Comments
    Creole Queen Sternwheeler
    My first build after a 2o year Lull. Ended up catching covid which went to Long Haul Covid. I was extremely sick for the first 2 weeks. I had issues for about 3 months. I have had this kit for 15yrs and was so bored while staying home. I pulled it out to "look " at it, 4 months later we were here.
    River Rat
    1 year ago
    8 Attributes
    9 Comments
    Members Blogs
    26 Posts
    33 Followers
    336 Likes
    Typhoon
    Hey guys, I finally got a good start on my Dumas Typhoon in 1/10 scale. This kit builds up in 2 halves which is kind of different. Although I had my doubts about alignment it came together nicely. I will update when I can, I am going to take my time on this one. I plan to use a 3660 2200KV brushless motor and 60A esc (I have on the shelf). Is water cooling absolutely necessary? I have a fan for the esc and a heat sink for the motor. Any input is helpful. Thanks RR
    River Rat
    14 days ago
    1 Post
    1 Follower
    4 Likes
    Chicago Race
    New Zealand wins the NASCAR Race in Chicago???!!! What??? Congrats to NZ! SVG! SVG! JB...Have a mug for SVG! Let the " Island Country " rule tonight!!
    River Rat
    5 months ago
    1 Post
    8 Followers
    15 Likes
    First build
    I found this build and paint boat kit and my grandson completed his first boat project. (Unfortunately it doesn't float ) He also loves going to the pond for motor boating. I hope I can keep his interest RR
    River Rat
    5 months ago
    2 Posts
    8 Followers
    35 Likes
    Tow vehicle
    I am working on a tow vehicle for my SK that I picked up at a garage sale for $5.00. Complete revamp on all the radio equipment, lights, and sound. 1/6 scale 1954 Chevrolet custom car with 4 wheel independent hydraulics. . Maybe I'm crazy . Dave RR
    River Rat
    4 months ago
    1 Post
    4 Followers
    13 Likes
    Chris Craft trailer stand
    Just finished the second trailer project. I didn't do a build log because it's so close to the other trailer build on here. Makes a nice looking stand, I am still working on a tow vehicle. I would love an SRX6 Jeep but WOW!...the prices nowadays! Thanks again for all the tips and tricks. Dave RR
    River Rat
    6 months ago
    9 Posts
    15 Followers
    87 Likes
    RC Boat trailer/stand
    Hey guys, finally got some time to start on my trailer. I am using 1/2" aluminum channel for the main rails. Tamiya 1/14 Semi truck leaf springs and mounts, 13mm aluminum axle housings with stainless steel axles. 1/10 touring car rims with Tamiya 1/14 truck tires (85mm diameter). I am also using old printer parts for the roller setup on the trailer. I am going to attempt to weld the frame with low temp alumiweld 700 degree Fahrenheit melting point.( first time trying this stuff so we will see....) I will update soon. Thanks, Dave RR
    River Rat
    7 months ago
    15 Posts
    14 Followers
    103 Likes
    Hallet SK Drag boat
    I know this is not the normal build on this site but I thought if y'all want to see it I will keep posting. This is a replica of a boat that raced here locally (Louisville, KY). I grew up on the Ohio river about an hour from the Madison Indiana Regatta (unlimited hydros). So not only did we have drag boats but the big boys too! A lot of sport boating, a few sailing yachts, cabin cruisers and of course House boats ( have one in the works soon). As a young man I got to ride in all of them. But I was so impressed with these old flat bottoms . ( Talk about brass balls) I have had this Idea of a real V-drive setup in my head so I'ma try to work that out. Found this transfer case from a 1/8 monster truck. I think I can make it work. Working in 1/6 scale. I sourced a Hemi engine. 4074 brushless 6s setup? Thanks to all on this site for being friendly and helpful. I really love the diverse subjects. Thanks, Dave (RR)
    River Rat
    9 months ago
    32 Posts
    19 Followers
    210 Likes
    1930 Chris Craft runabout
    Hey guys, pulled another old Dumas kit from the pile. This is my first large scale mahogany planked boat build. Hope I can get through it without to much trouble. Going with a 2s battery, 550 brushed motor and speed control from traxxas. Got all the framework and some planking done. I will update this blog as I go. Thanks to all who have helped me...Dave
    River Rat
    11 months ago
    11 Posts
    9 Followers
    51 Likes
    Dumas Mt Washington
    I am in the 5th month of this build. Definitely a challenging build. I decided to build this one a little out of the box. Couldn't find a whole lot of reference material or color photos so I just painted it the way I thought it looked best. Any criticism good or bad is welcome. Thanks, Dave
    River Rat
    1 year ago
    3 Posts
    5 Followers
    14 Likes
    Creole Queen Sternwheeler
    I recently retired and this is how I got back into building boats. I have the fever after a 20 year lull. I included some pics. Currently working on a Dumas Mt. Washington I will post pics if anyone is interested. Thanks Dave
    River Rat
    1 year ago
    Recent Posts
    💬 Re: Another Clyde Puffer
    1 day ago by 🇺🇸 River Rat ( Commander)
    ✧ 38 Views · 3 Likes
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    Very nice weathering effects. You're done a great job on her! RR 👍👍👍

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    📝 Slo mo
    2 days ago by 🇺🇸 River Rat ( Commander)
    ✧ 40 Views · 4 Likes
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    📝 Reply
    I say sand it good and put on a second coat. Sometimes it takes 3 or 4 coats to look good. The first coat is always kinda ugly 😜. RR

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    📝 Typhoon
    7 days ago by 🇺🇸 River Rat ( Commander)
    ✧ 5 Views · 8 Likes · 5 Comments
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    I just love this boat, the double enders are so sleek and classic. Dripping with beautiful mahogany 😍

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    📝 Tow vehicle
    7 days ago by 🇺🇸 River Rat ( Commander)
    ✧ 5 Views · 11 Likes · 2 Comments
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    Tow car is finished. I have 4 servos to raise and lower the car like hydraulics. I raise it to tow and then drop it when it's just sitting. It was found at a yard sale for $5.00. I upgraded all the electronics added lights and sound.

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    💬 Re: Typhoon Finished!!!
    7 days ago by 🇺🇸 River Rat ( Commander)
    ✧ 20 Views · 2 Likes
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    I just wanted to say thank you to all of you on this site, I have learned more here than anywhere about building techniques and electronics. So a big "THANK YOU!!!" to everyone and keep on building! RR 👍

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    💬 Re: Typhoon Finished!!!
    7 days ago by 🇺🇸 River Rat ( Commander)
    ✧ 20 Views · 1 Like
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    Thanks Boatshed, I am a lucky man, My lady encourages me to build and helps me! I am retired (not forced but recommended), In September of 2020 I had a nasty case of COVID which left me with diminished lung capacity and severe muscle weakness in my legs mostly. I have built 7 boats, 2 trailers and 1 tow car since then. (All in my harbor) I bought these models over the last 20 years so I would have something to do after retirement. Now I am depleting my stock rapidly. (Should have bought more I guess) I still keep up with my chores, cut the grass, rake leaves, shovel snow etc. My lovely wife Kate is by my side with everything...I am very lucky to have her! She is also quite crafty. She helped me paint all the figures on the Creole Queen.
    Thanks again, RR

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    💬 Re: Typhoon Finished!!!
    7 days ago by 🇺🇸 River Rat ( Commander)
    ✧ 20 Views · 2 Likes
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    Thanks JB, I really enjoy the mahogany boats. Yes I finished the tow vehicle, I will try to get it on video as well... My pond is in terrible shape, it's about 3ft low from lack of rain and a soupy green muck floating on top. I have another pond about 30 minutes away and waiting for better weather (30F this morning)... hopefully we get another nice day and I will get it done. Thanks again, RR

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    📝 Modello RC scala 1/60, di piroscafo armato a goletta, liberamente ispirato alle cannoniere classe US
    9 days ago by 🇺🇸 River Rat ( Commander)
    ✧ 38 Views · 2 Likes
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    Fantastic work, It makes me want to build a similar vessel, Thank you for posting! RR

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    📝 LCM Landing a Sherman M4(105)
    13 days ago by 🇺🇸 River Rat ( Commander)
    ✧ 60 Views · 0 Likes
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    Very nice Lew! Thanks for posting! RR 👍👍👍

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    💬 Re: Typhoon Finished!!!
    14 days ago by 🇺🇸 River Rat ( Commander)
    ✧ 50 Views · 4 Likes
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    Thank you all for the kind words, sometimes that really helps! I will have it on the water tomorrow for trials as it's supposed to be 56F and sunny 😎.... video soon 😀 RR

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    📝 Typhoon Finished!!!
    14 days ago by 🇺🇸 River Rat ( Commander)
    ✧ 58 Views · 29 Likes · 19 Comments
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    I can call this one finished. It took about 2 months start to finish. I will have a video of the maiden voyage as soon as I can. Hopefully the pond is in decent shape. Thinking about the next project.....
    RR

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    💬 Re: Typhoon progress
    16 days ago by 🇺🇸 River Rat ( Commander)
    ✧ 62 Views · 1 Like
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    Thank you Alessandro, I really enjoy building these. RR

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    💬 Re: Typhoon progress
    16 days ago by 🇺🇸 River Rat ( Commander)
    ✧ 62 Views · 1 Like
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    Thanks Jumpugly, It does have a little wow factor 😁 I appreciate your interest, and help. RR

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    💬 Re: Typhoon progress
    16 days ago by 🇺🇸 River Rat ( Commander)
    ✧ 62 Views · 0 Likes
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    Thanks Peejay, it always helps to hear the kind words.

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    💬 Re: Typhoon progress
    16 days ago by 🇺🇸 River Rat ( Commander)
    ✧ 62 Views · 1 Like
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    Hey Trev I used 3m 2 sided tape for automotive emblems. I hope they hold up. It's very strong, I tried pulling one off...I think I'm good. RR

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    📝 Typhoon progress
    16 days ago by 🇺🇸 River Rat ( Commander)
    ✧ 62 Views · 15 Likes · 8 Comments
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    It's been a couple good days work, The pics can tell most of the story. Still working on the windshields. 😔 I hope to have a video soon...
    RR

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    📝 Question for all
    21 days ago by 🇺🇸 River Rat ( Commander)
    ✧ 80 Views · 6 Likes · 1 Comment
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    My question is...how do you all attach your deck fittings? I would like to hear different ways. I placed them all out and then said to myself...🤔 Thanks in advance for any proper ways.
    RR

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    📝 3D printed speedboat
    21 days ago by 🇺🇸 River Rat ( Commander)
    ✧ 43 Views · 1 Like
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    Check out www.yeggi.com, they have many boat files including speed boats. RR

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    📝 Typhoon navigation lights
    21 days ago by 🇺🇸 River Rat ( Commander)
    ✧ 84 Views · 10 Likes · 2 Comments
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    Another little project, I tried casting with resin for the first time last evening. The metal lenses didn't look good so I pushed them into dense clay. Then I mixed up some Total boat resin and tinted it with enamel paint and filled the molds. Today I removed them from the clay, cleaned them with sticker removing solvent and applied a clear coat. I think they will look much better. I will also use bare metal foil for the chrome trim. You could also add a small led with this process if you wanted. Thanks, RR

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    📝 Typhoon rc equipment
    22 days ago by 🇺🇸 River Rat ( Commander)
    ✧ 89 Views · 8 Likes · 1 Comment
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    Good day, I got all the equipment installed and bench tested. It's a 36-70 brushless system running on 2S but capable up to 6S (I will never go there) 35kg steering servo and engine sound. No problems with installation or running and pleasantly no vibration 😁 Playing around with 12 cylinder sound downloads for the ESS one. Moving on to finish work with fittings etc.
    RR

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    📝 Modello RC scala 1/60, di piroscafo armato a goletta, liberamente ispirato alle cannoniere classe US
    23 days ago by 🇺🇸 River Rat ( Commander)
    ✧ 44 Views · 6 Likes
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    WOW!!! Such beautiful work you are doing... Impressive!!! Your attention to detail is very high, I'm looking forward to your progress 👍👍👍 RR

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    💬 Re: Typhoon final clear
    24 days ago by 🇺🇸 River Rat ( Commander)
    ✧ 97 Views · 1 Like
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    Thanks JB, as long as I don't get wet...a bump or two will do 😁 Dave RR

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    💬 Re: Typhoon final clear
    24 days ago by 🇺🇸 River Rat ( Commander)
    ✧ 98 Views · 3 Likes
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    Hey Trev, I am just glad the whole process went well. We all know it can go bad fast, One of the few I have finished without problems. 😂 I'm going to give it an 8. Sooo...on to final assembly, hope everything still fits. 🤔 Thanks, Dave

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    📝 Typhoon final clear
    24 days ago by 🇺🇸 River Rat ( Commander)
    ✧ 98 Views · 19 Likes · 13 Comments
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    I waited as long as I could then taped the cockpits for a couple hours and this is where I'm at... final clear is on clean, well a couple nubs 🙄 I have a 12 x 12 room with ventilation in my garage to paint. I wear an approved mask, turn the furnace on bake it at about 80 F Happy with final result. Now I can take a day off 😔 Thanks RR

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    📝 Prop. Shaft fixing
    25 days ago by 🇺🇸 River Rat ( Commander)
    ✧ 87 Views · 6 Likes
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    Epoxy resin or JB weld and make sure you scratch the tube with rough sandpaper

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    📝 Typhoon paint
    25 days ago by 🇺🇸 River Rat ( Commander)
    ✧ 108 Views · 12 Likes · 3 Comments
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    The weather was pretty good so I painted the bottom today. I use this paint for the color and the stripe is vinyl tape. Rudder and stuffing box finished. Good days work with no trouble. Tomorrow I will clear it, I hang it up level (not an easy chore) but makes the job much nicer and spray it clear 😁
    RR

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    💬 Re: Typhoon clear coat
    27 days ago by 🇺🇸 River Rat ( Commander)
    ✧ 112 Views · 2 Likes
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    Hi Rogal, It is 1/10 scale 42" long, all the fittings are chrome and I will have a captain (currently looking for a good fit) I will also build a trailer for the stand to display. Thanks RR

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    💬 Re: Typhoon clear coat
    27 days ago by 🇺🇸 River Rat ( Commander)
    ✧ 113 Views · 0 Likes
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    Thank you for the kind words Dave, I hope to have her finished up in a few weeks. Maybe in time for a video 🤞 Thanks again, Dave

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    💬 Re: Typhoon clear coat
    27 days ago by 🇺🇸 River Rat ( Commander)
    ✧ 113 Views · 2 Likes
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    Hey Trev, I am brushing it on full strength with the medium hardener. I get about 15 minutes of good working time. I really like the Total Boat high performance epoxy resin, it flows out really nice. I use PPG clear and I think it has UV protection. ( I'm going to check on it) Thanks, Dave

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    📝 Typhoon clear coat
    27 days ago by 🇺🇸 River Rat ( Commander)
    ✧ 113 Views · 13 Likes · 10 Comments
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    Another good day, same process, sanded with 220, another coat of resin. The decals are under the last 2 coats. At this point I will sand again with 600, establish the waterline, paint and apply 2 coats of automotive high solids clear. ( same thing is on most new cars ) It has to be cured for a day or two now with 5 coats of resin in 3 days. The first pics are bright sun, last two are late in the day. RR

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