Running gear

[TROUBLEMONSTER]

I have the TJ Salvirile AHT model from Loyalhanna dockyard. I was intending to build it as a display only but have changed my mind and am probably going to make it RC. I have made a few speed boats but never delt with a tug before. Loyalhanna dockyard has a running gear package with motors, U joints, NIMH battery and a 4 chanel GWS radio and viper 15 speed controller for this boat fo $265. I Have not heard of GWS I have had 2 Futaba radios in the past and they were great. I am also looking for maximum run time and was thinking of using a fire alarm type battery. I will only use one speed controller and add a motor reversing circut to twin screw the props. Should I go with the package deal or can you guys recomend something else?

[Marked]

I bet if you look around rc groups you will find a better deal.I have a motor (several) I would donate just cover shipping.I have a few drill motors that would work too.
Mark

[toesup]

I am also looking for maximum run time and was thinking of using a fire alarm type battery. I will only use one speed controller and add a motor reversing circut to twin screw the props.

Yes, a SLA (Sealed Lead Acid) battery will certainly give you more run time. Size (AH, V's) depends on how much space you have in the hull and how much 'battery ballast' the hull can take before it reaches the waterline.

For more manouverability, wouldnt you be better off with two ESC's..

You dont need a 'motor reversing circuit' if you go for one ESC, just wire one of the motors backwards to the first motor.
By the way, its difficult to find a 'matched' pair of motors that give the same RPM for a particular throttle setting.

[PatricMichigan]

I wouldn't be to concerned about 'matching' the motors. Its not that critical. The drag in the drive line can cause more mis-match than the motors.
I would suggest you contact Don at Loyalhanna- if you want to use of of the radios you have just tell him that.
If they are suggesting a NiMh battery there may be a size/weight issue. Just ask him about that too.
With the small-ish size of the hull I probably wouldn't worry about independant control of the two motors. (two speed controls)

(remember- both of them at Loyalhanna still have 'real' jobs so night or weekends are when you can find them via phone)

Patric

[TROUBLEMONSTER]

Thanks I have already talked to Don he has a package already set up for this boat the price beats my local shop (60 miles away) by a few bucks. I want a little more info on the GWS radio I have not heard of that brand but I have been out of the R/C world for a few years.