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    Model Boats Website
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    Rowen
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    Member No.#2935
    Registered📅27th Jun 2014
    Last Online📅2nd May 2026
    City📍Ancaster
    Country🇨🇦Canada
    Gender♂️Male
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    Posts💬756
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    Members Blogs
    8 Posts
    3 Followers
    51 Likes
    Swedish 16 M
    Readers of my HSwMS Visby blog will be aware the model is complete and operating well. Was quite happy spending last Summer just sailing models; that was until JBKIWI wrote a forum entry introducing the Swedish CB90 class of waterjet propelled fast assault class! Sparked my imagination. After some research, found the base hull has been developed into a number of forms, including attractive “Interceptor” and VIP vessels. The hull is of a hard chine style and should not present any unusual challenges. The waterjets are not the same as the Visby, in that the reverse/steering function is different. From experience with the Visby, consider a reverse capability essential. Decided to use the same base 20mm waterjet units as the Visby. They power a hull in the 30 – 40” O/L range nicely. My preferred size. They also work well and do not leak. Problems friends have encountered with other units. This offered two approaches, one use “modellers license” and fit the same bucket style units as on the Visby. The other was to use the base waterjet unit, but make up the correct Kamewa “clamshell” style reverse /steering units. These were not available through the jet supplier.
    Rowen
    3 years ago
    20 Posts
    5 Followers
    85 Likes
    H.Sw.H.S. Visby
    Been trying to find an interesting model for my next build and was intrigued by the articles on a semi-scale waterjet powered Finnish stealth corvette in the Model Boats magazine. Thought that a similar model would be an interesting introduction to the world of waterjets. Quickly discovered that to make a scale model with a manufactured glass fibre hull (my preferred construction), would have to find a similar vessel as nobody offered a GF hull for that ship. The author of the article had made his semi-scale model by adapting another hull. After searching around, discovered then decided on the Swedish Visby class. This was an early version of a stealth corvette and has had excellent reviews in the various defence forums. Was waterjet powered and of similar dimensions, meeting my requirements. Concluded this would make a nice project, so started to accumulate the necessary parts. Researched the class in more detail and found Swedish naval vessels are also know as “H.M.S.”, but in Swedish! The Swedes have a proud naval tradition and use a similar nomenclature to the British. They are referred to as “H.Sw.M.S. XXX” amongst the Naval fraternity.
    Rowen
    3 years ago
    9 Posts
    6 Followers
    58 Likes
    H.M.S.SCIMITAR FTB
    After the end of the war the Royal Navy decided to move from gasoline powered fast launches to diesel, to reduce fire risks. The first major diesel powered boat class was the Dark, introduced in the mid1950s. These were powered by two Napier Deltic horizontally opposed, triangular layout two stroke diesels. Shortly after this class was introduced it was determined the role of the Fast Patrol boat had been superseded by helicopters and aircraft. The Fast Patrol vessels were then gradually withdrawn. To retain competence in the use of fast vessels, the RN commissioned three fast training boats (FTBs), the Scimitar class. This was the last high speed RN class of the era. They were similar to the Brave in many ways. Both were built by Vosper and the lineage is evident. Rather than three Proteus gas turbines, they only had two, although with CODOG diesel units for slow speed operation. They were unarmed and designed to give R.N. crews experience in fast, coastal patrol boats. The vessels could be armed and converted to three Proteus turbines if circumstances changed. Our COVID lock-down hastened progress on my Dark class project, so have been trying to find another build for the coming winter. Have decided to model fast patrol type vessels for the time being. They are great fun on the water. Would have liked to build a Scimitar Class FTB in around 1:32 scale, again using a GF hull from MTB Hulls, but that scale was not in their range. A GF hull is light and robust, well suited to these vessels. MTBHulls did offer a 1:72 scale hull, but that worked out around 16.5” long. Thought it would be too small for a working scale model. Was in touch with a modeller in Australia who has made similar models. He also pointed out the number of successful “plastic magic” conversions of kits that are around this size. Obviously, it is achievable. Would give an unexpected change as the larger scale would have been similar to my recent Brave Borderer and R.A.F. RTTL projects. The biggest challenge will be to keep the weight down to around 450g. Looked an interesting and challenging project and at such a small scale one with plenty of potential for failure.
    Rowen
    4 years ago
    7 Posts
    11 Followers
    67 Likes
    RAF RTTL 2762 E
    Decided to build a model of an RAF Rescue and Target Towing launch (RTTL) as my next project. Spent much of the winter and Covid lockdown period working on this 1:24 scale model. As the build closely follows my earlier Brave Borderer project, will only describe significant differences or areas of interest. The original vessel was designed and built by Vosper in the U.K. for the Royal Air Force in the early 1950s.This Mk 2 RTTL version, was eventually powered by 2 x Rolls-Royce Sea Griffon engines (the Griffon, although a similar style engine to the Merlin, was not a development of it). The one I chose to model was 2762E. This originally had an aluminium plated hull and was built for experimental purposes to evaluate this feature. The “E” in the pennant number depicts “Experimental”. The R.A.F then realized it already had a 2762 vessel, one captured from the Germans! She was renumbered as 2772E. In service it was found the aluminium sheathing corroded quickly in the salt water. She was then resheathed in double planked mahogany, just like her sisters. The pennant number then also became plain 2772. In the original guise this hull was both lighter and had a smoother surface finish than usual, so was capable of over 50 knots. The standard vessel topped out at around 47 knots. Planned to use a glass fibre hull. The smoother surface of GF would more closely replicate this particular vessel and would thus give an ideal opportunity to capture a unique period in her life. Also wanted to capture a version with the low engine room hatch, although 2772 was later converted to the raised glazed version.
    Rowen
    5 years ago
    11 Posts
    6 Followers
    82 Likes
    HMAFV SEAL
    My last project, H.M.S. Brave Borderer, was an interesting and enjoyable build. It was based on a glass fibre (gf) hull from MTBHULLS. Have decided that purchasing a gf hull gives an excellent base for a scale, robust model. Have previously experienced minor issues of micro-cracking on wooden models, gf avoids that. From a cost perspective, the hulls are probably little more expensive than building from scratch. MTBHulls was planning to produce a hull for the R.A.F. Seal Class which would be available in time for my winter 2019 project. The Seal was the last class operated by the R.A.F. Marine Branch, but as a LRRS (Long Range Recovery & Support) launch. They were significantly larger than the traditional ASRL, offering much greater range and capability, albeit it at a lower speed. At 1:35 scale the overall length would be 41.25”, just about my upper limit for transport. Ordered the hull and it duly arrived well packaged and safely, rather earlier than expected! At least it gave the opportunity for installing and testing the running gear before winter.
    Rowen
    6 years ago
    19 Posts
    3 Followers
    91 Likes
    M.V. TEAKWOOD
    Water trials have been delayed by trying to resolve the challenges with my HMS Brave Borderer project drivetrain. As those efforts have been halted, waiting for new components, decided to complete the Teakwood water trails. First battery trails used 8 x 1.2 Ni-Mh cells is series, giving 9.6 volts. This was unsuccessful as the battery life was only minutes. Lesson from this is not to buy cheap Ni-Mh cells from an Oriental source. Tried 2 x 7.4 Ni-Mh packs is series giving 14.8 volts. Vessel was far too fast and throttle control poorly modulated. Was thinking of fitting a voltage reducer with this battery layout so could adjust the top speed. Have done this before and it works well. When searching in my box of bits found a voltage step up increaser. Never used this before so rewired the Ni-Mh packs to parallel and adjusted the output voltage to 10 volts to see how it worked. Result is a nicely performing model with an usable top speed potential for emergency, Duration of the first run comfortable exceeded 1 ½ hours, which am satisfied with. The cells are positioned around mid hull to supplement the fitted ballast. From the pictures the model has all the grace and style of the original vessel and sails well. In conclusion, a successful project that justifies the many hours spent in building and refining the model
    Rowen
    8 years ago
    30 Posts
    7 Followers
    158 Likes
    H.M.S BRAVE BORDERER
    Thinking of a future project and decided upon another launch type vessel. My earlier Daman 4207 project gave an interesting model with good performance. The Brave class of FPBs (Fast Patrol Boats) caught my attention. Can remember the incredible performance they offered when entering service. Only two of the class were used by the RN, although variants were used by other navies. Have decided to use proprietary Glass fibre hulls in future as they probably cost little more than building from scratch using wood and resin. They give a robust and watertight hull, but one which still requires thought to complete properly. There are several companies that offer a “Perkasa” hull, a Brave class derivative with an almost identical hull. From previous experience have decided to limit my models to 40” long, larger vessels become difficult to transport and handle. After much research considered the hull offered by MTB Hulls in Gibraltar met my requirements best. The inquiry to MTBHulls was well handled; the quotation acceptable, so placed an order. Was pleasantly surprised at the shipping costs. From the UK these often approach the cost of the hull, but from Gibraltar they are much more reasonable. Delivery only took 7 days.
    Rowen
    4 years ago
    20 Posts
    2 Followers
    74 Likes
    DAMEN STAN 4207
    Blog 20 (Conclusion) Posted 18 Aug 2017 Have experimented with converting the jet ski into an RIB with some success. The project is not complete, but have made provision for it in the sternway. The RIB weights something around 8oz, so decided to move the LO-PO cell forward to compensate for this addition and also improve accessibility. Much to my surprise the cell fitted neatly in front of the rear bullhead, about 2” forward of the previous position. The nett result was that although the model is slightly heavier, this is not readily apparent. The waterline remains just above the water level. Have now conducted several trials in a sheltered local pool, so ventured forth onto a much larger open lake. One reason was to try to get a video of her on the water as requested by one of my peers. This has been submiited to the Video Gallery. This lake is large and deep. As there was a 10 – 20 knot gusty breeze and was apprehensive about going far from the dock. Would estimate the video speed at about 85% of her maximum, quite fast enough to exceed scale. The model performed well; even when heeled by the wind in a turn there was no water over the lee deck edge. The effect of the stabilizers is apparent, she answers the helm quickly and remains stable. In summary, a very satisfying project, one that will give years of pleasure. This is the concluding blog entry as am now moving onto a new project, a scale model of M.V. Teakwood.
    Rowen
    9 years ago
    24 Posts
    7 Followers
    94 Likes
    H.M.S.Bulldog / Beagle
    Decided to write a follow up entry. Added more ballast to stern to fully submerge rudder blades and converted to 6V, as voltage reducer had not been received. The result of these two changes makes the model as I had hoped. She is nicely controllable and tolerant of inadvertent control movements. Looks very nice on water as can be seen. Fitted with 2 x 6V SLA cells in parallel and they give over 2 hours of sailing time. In summary, a very satisfying project, one to enjoy all Summer - now onto the next!
    Rowen
    10 years ago
    Recent Posts
    📝 Question of the Day?
    18 hours ago by 🇨🇦 Rowen ( Captain)
    ✧ 35 Views · 1 Like
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    Another wrong answer!
    You need to answer todays 'Question of the Day' before viewing this post!
    (Alternatively, this post will be made visible tomorrow)


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    📝 Question of the Day?
    1 year ago by 🇨🇦 Rowen ( Captain)
    ✧ 44 Views · 0 Likes
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    Got it wrong, but good question. Caused us to think and the explanation was interesting.

    ▲
    📝 Question of the Day?
    1 year ago by 🇨🇦 Rowen ( Captain)
    ✧ 54 Views · 2 Likes
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    Rubbish!

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    📝 Question of the Day?
    1 year ago by 🇨🇦 Rowen ( Captain)
    ✧ 53 Views · 3 Likes
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    Wonder why, as I get more correct answers, my score goes down?

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    📝 Question of the Day?
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Rowen ( Captain)
    ✧ 64 Views · 4 Likes
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    Another ridiculous answer. I sailed dingies for years, never carried a bilge pump, too heavy. Every dingy carried a bucket though.

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    📝 Question of the Day?
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Rowen ( Captain)
    ✧ 55 Views · 4 Likes
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    The Costa Concordia did not catch fire

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    📝 Brushless motors battery
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Rowen ( Captain)
    ✧ 61 Views · 5 Likes
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    📝 Reply
    Yes, in principle.
    Be careful of the power consumption. Brushless can consume many watts, which may be beyond the capacity of your cells

    ▲
    📝 How do I bend plywood
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Rowen ( Captain)
    ✧ 85 Views · 4 Likes
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    On thin ply, such as hull skins. Have found using a heat gun quite adequate. Heat bend, clamp then reheat😌 l

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    📝 Yorkshire Belle
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Rowen ( Captain)
    ✧ 34 Views · 1 Like
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    Hi Doug, Alive and well but spent most of this last winter trying to sort a misfire out on my Jaguar XJS V12.
    Not quite sure if entirely cured. Am hampered in my ability to run it at full throttle by the local Police forces! No understanding of my quest for perfection.

    Did potter along with my waterjet powered Swedish Interceptor based yacht. Nearly done, hence my YB inquiry.
    Thanks for the SARIK lead. Had already seen that but recognising the frugality of my heritage was trying to avoid paying for them! If all else fails!
    Keep seeing your notes on the site, so assumed all was well.
    Best Rowen

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    📝 Yorkshire Belle
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Rowen ( Captain)
    ✧ 62 Views · 6 Likes
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    Have fond memories of sailing off the Yorkshire coast in this vessel with my late father.
    Have often thought of building a model and somebody, very kindly, sent me a GA and side elevation.
    All I need now are the section drawings, does anybody have a copy?
    Thanks
    Rowen

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    💬 Re: Russian K100D waterjet work boat project, Improvements
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Rowen ( Captain)
    ✧ 67 Views · 4 Likes
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    As a fellow frugal Yorkshireman to Rogal, heartily agree!

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    📝 Question of the Day?
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Rowen ( Captain)
    ✧ 55 Views · 3 Likes
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    That assumes your boat has a bilge pump. Buckets are almost standard equipment on small boats. Just another question where the answer does not reflect the question.

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    📝 Question of the Day?
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Rowen ( Captain)
    ✧ 58 Views · 8 Likes
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    Not in North America, Super glue Reigns supreme

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    📝 Question of the Day?
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Rowen ( Captain)
    ✧ 52 Views · 7 Likes
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    📝 Reply
    Costa Concordia did not catch fire

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    📝 Orca and Jaws the chase, cought on video.
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Rowen ( Captain)
    ✧ 73 Views · 3 Likes
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    Bet the shark could not catch your Brave Borderer up!
    Rowen

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    📝 Servos going crazy
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Rowen ( Captain)
    ✧ 59 Views · 3 Likes
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    Seem to recall servos and Rxs work best between 4.5 and rather less that 6v. Think you have just proved it!
    Sounds like they were overpowered and, then, odd things happen

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    📝 Servos going crazy
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Rowen ( Captain)
    ✧ 89 Views · 5 Likes
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    Have used a shared power supply on several models. Usually also fit a voltage regulator to reduce cell voltage to RX.
    Works well for me and saves weight and complexity

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    💬 Re: Newbie Model Slipway 1/16th Tamar Build
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Rowen ( Captain)
    ✧ 88 Views · 2 Likes
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    BECC Flags will provide lettering. It is available through Cornwall Model Boats in the UK

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    📝 Jet Pump Thrusters
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Rowen ( Captain)
    ✧ 78 Views · 1 Like
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    Have used several of the smaller ones. They work well and have never had a debris ingress issue.

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    📝 Question of the Day?
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Rowen ( Captain)
    ✧ 71 Views · 0 Likes
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    Of course!

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    📝 Question of the Day?
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Rowen ( Captain)
    ✧ 69 Views · 1 Like
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    None of above. HMS Argus

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    📝 Question of the Day?
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Rowen ( Captain)
    ✧ 73 Views · 4 Likes
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    Why not drop the number of questions to, say, one a week?
    Then the quizmaster might have time to make sure the answer relates to the question?
    There are too many mistakes and ambiguities as it is.

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    📝 Question of the Day?
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Rowen ( Captain)
    ✧ 58 Views · 2 Likes
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    Not according to Wikipedia, all the suggestions are wrong.Should be Manchias

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    📝 Question of the Day?
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Rowen ( Captain)
    ✧ 65 Views · 3 Likes
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    Nickthestream got it right.
    Just another question with an inapplicable answer!

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    📝 Question of the Day?
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Rowen ( Captain)
    ✧ 53 Views · 0 Likes
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    It is a beam reach, so got it wrong!
    The idea of a quiz was quite entertaining,but as the questions and answers are unrelated think it has lived it’s time.
    Suggest close it down whilst still ahead

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    📝 Question of the Day?
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Rowen ( Captain)
    ✧ 63 Views · 3 Likes
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    📝 Reply
    Rubbish!

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    📝 Things that never work right
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Rowen ( Captain)
    ✧ 69 Views · 4 Likes
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    📝 Reply
    Suggest remove that little slide switch and put it in the bin.
    They give innumerable problems once in a damp atmosphere, such as a model boat.
    Replace with a good quality toggle or push switch. You will save yourself a stack of frustration

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    📝 Things that never work right
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Rowen ( Captain)
    ✧ 73 Views · 3 Likes
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    After using Tamiya and Deans have settled on the XT60.
    Tamiya are rubbish, hard to solder and give sporadic conductivity.
    Deans hard to solder. XT 60 are not perfect but the sleeves can be extracted, soldered properly and then refitted. Also relatively compact where the XT 90 is quite bulky

    ▲
    📝 Austal Cape 58
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Rowen ( Captain)
    ✧ 40 Views · 0 Likes
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    Thanks Malcolm,
    Another nice vessel. Very similar to my Daman Stan 4207, so would rather keep searching for the Cape 58.
    Rowen

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    📝 Austal Cape 58
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Rowen ( Captain)
    ✧ 72 Views · 4 Likes
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    Just thinking, what a nice model this vessel would make.
    Has anybody ever found a set of plans or know where they could be obtained?
    Thanks
    Rowen

    ▲


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