Hello John,

I expect you have already received useful tips from other modellers but the following may be of interest.

I think you should not be afraid your own abilities on hthis kit, which I found to be of good quality components and clear instructions.  If you take your time, I am sure you will find very little difficulty with it. It makes up into a very nice looking model that sails well and is usually much admired by onlookers. 

While many modellers now use spray guns and modern acrylic paints, I have stuck to my oewn well tried experience and use Humbrol enamels, matt for the colours follwed by one or two coats of clear satin varnish as topcoat, using always fine quality artists brushes.  This gives a good finish that is not too shiny but is hardwearing. 

I usually use 6v motors powered by lead acid gel batteries obtained from Maplin which give a good endurance and are easily recharged using the chargers also obtained from Maplin.  Any good model shop in your vicinity or like me those advertised regularly in the magazine and contacted on the web will be happy to advise  and supply the bit and pieces you need.  Positioning in this model is easier than some because of the internal space available, always remembering to keep the receiver and aerial away from the motor, which usually you should suppress anyway, components again all got from model shop etc.  In my boat, I put battery forward of motor mounting all below the hatch and placed receiver, esc and rudder servo below wheelhouse.  This has worked well.

Ballasting is a matter of having fun in the test tank, the bath , always allowing time for water disurbances to settle down each time you adjust model.  I use lead shot packaged in the small plastic cash bags one gets in banks.  This has the advantage that you make up different weghts and can therefter place them in the hull low down by the keel.  When happy with trim, they are easily located in position.

Trust any or all of this is of interest even if only in passing.  I think you will be well satisfied with the model when finished.  I sent picturesof all my models as cover to a letter to the editor some months ago and when I get round to sorting out all the many photos that I took during construction, I intend to out some onto the gallery.

Best wishes

R D Gordon