Hi yaTrevor
I admire a brave man who is going to undertake to build a model of this scale and size. I hope you are blessed with a sturdy back, a deep pocket and an understanding wife
not wanting to rain on your parade but have you really given it some serious thought about the disadvantages of the size of this model?
I have built several models of a similar size myself – one sitting on the bench right now – nearing completion – its been pointed out to me 'how am I going to lift it' and you may end up with the same problem.
Along with your propulsion problems, have you given it thought as to how you are going to ballast this model down to the water line. To give you an idea, I built the modern day HMS Leeds Castle at 1:48 scale which turns out roughly about 66 inches long and to bring this down to the water line I have to use 2 invalid carriage batteries (12 volt gel cell type) and they barely bring it down to the water line. There are already built in about 3 lb weight of lead ballast at the bow and stern on top of this weight and it takes 2 to lift the model into the lake prior to installing the batteries
that is just one problem.
The next one is the cost of the building materials; depending on how you are going to source your materials, you will find if you have to buy all your planking from a model shop; you will spend 3 times the amount.
I know this all sounds doom and gloom – but give it some good hard thought – as long as you have transport for the model as well from your home to the lake.
Sorry for my negativity but I have to rely on friends now if I want to use the Leeds Castle and Mr Milbourne can confirm all of this; as not so long ago we all attended a model show at Whickstead and I have to have the model transported down by a friend and his people carrier and he stayed with the model overnight at Mr Milbourne's residence
and that was like putting a lamb amongst a pack of wolves
if you are wondering why, all the electronics in the Leeds Castle are from Electronize and Mr Milbourne had just taken over ACTion Electronics. Hey I am surprised the model came back in one piece – happy days eh Dave?
But Terry, do give it some serious thought – as a lot of work will go into your model.
aye
john