Having built over 12 scratch built static models for friends, family, and museums, I wanted a radio control tugboat, just to do something different. All my previous models were plank on bulkhead models and over time I have developed a quick and efficient (To me anyway) means of building the hulls. Now with choosing to go with an RC boat, I came to the realization that i have no clue how to build one so it is hollow for the motor, batteries, etc., and more immportantly, is watertight. That's where my wife chipped in and presented to me a kit of Dumas' "Brooklyn" Tug for my 60th Birthday.
First of all, let me say that i am used to working pretty much exclusively with wood. This kit is almost completely plastic with the odd plywood parts thrown in for good measure. That being said, it could turn out to be a mjor learning experience.
So far, following the directions has yielded positive results which was a pleasant surprise considering some reviews of the build on this kit were not so encouraging, mentioning hard to follow directions, etc. As is stands now, the hull has been glued together and the reinforcing stip of fiberglass cloth has been fastened using resin. One thing i will mention is that the fiberglass cloth was a real bugger to get placed evenly right next to the sternpost The more you prodded it with a stick to get placement, the more it unravelled and began to look like a shaggy dog.
Another point; The instuctions say to begin the application of the fiberglass strip so it overhangs the stern by about an inch. Caution: Doing so will result in the strip being an inch short at the bow. Apparently there is exactly enough of the fiberglass cloth to cover the seam with nothing to spare.