Over the years I've seen a lot of these at shows that have been converted to "real" radio control. Effectively, a complete refit according to the owners preferences which results in a very nice model.

Removal of the original motors is almost mandatory, since they don't usually survive more than a very few trips.

Simplest replacement is a single prop/motor/ESC plus a rudder

Then twin motors/ESCs and either rudders or rely on differential steering.

Whatever, a new radio outfit will be needed as the original is a special for the manufacturer and doesn't conform to any general standard apart from the frequency band that it uses.

Firstly, welcome to the forum, the font of all knowledge, if a bit conflicting at times…

Hmmm. On my original one the circuit board was in a waterproof box at the bottom of the boat (if I remember correctly)

​The deck unscrews easily via some screws, plugged by small black plugs on mine. Access to the boat can be effected by cutting an opening , within the cabin footprint, and adding a combing to stop water coming in. The cabin can be easily located on the deck by drilling through the deck screw holes and gluing into the cabin screw positions some brass rod.

I used two speed 280 motors and 25mm props on 3mm shafts (as I had some) but thin 4mm shafts would do.It, and twin rudders, but a single shaft is obviously easier. There are scoops in the bottom of the hull which is why I went with twin motors!

I used at first AA Nimh ordinary rechargeables in the original holder, as this was easy but they do not give sufficient current. Weight is an issue. I have since purchased a couple of 1700mAhr 7.2V 2/3C nimh packs and these deliver good current and weigh very little, ideal for this application.

That's how I did it, no doubt ALL the conversions are different, probably most depending what you have in your spares box!
Ashley
 

Edited By ashley needham on 07/08/2016 09:27:38

Hello Craig,

I agree with Andy C that a few more photos with more dismantling (if feasible) would be helpful.

You say "New here and to model boats in general" – do you have experience of constructing any models (eg cars, planes)? What I am trying to gauge here is whether your motivation is mainly to repair the lifeboat so that your young son can continue to enjoy sailing it or whether you want to start the hobby of model boats.

If you want to replace the electronics and motors it is likely to require some modifications to the interior of the hull – you might find it helpful if you could contact a model boat club near to your location and get practical help from a member there.

Ian