Information Tito Neri tug

[David InglisParticipant @davidinglis20676]

Graupner Tito Neri tug

[David InglisParticipant @davidinglis20676]

On impulse I bought a completed Graupner Tito Neri tug for a good price at a local auction not realising that it is actually a remote control model

There were no details with it and no remote control so I am at a loss as to how to test it. Before I can decide what to do with it is anyone able to give me any information about it such as what remote control is needed or even how to access motorS and batteries etc. there are 2 screwed down panels at the stern but I am reluctant to remove them in case I cause any damage.

I may just consider selling it as it is but have no idea of it’s actual value. I can post some photos if anyone wants to see it

Many thanks

[Dave Cooper 6Participant @davecooper6]

Hi David and welcome to the forum,

I'm not a tug man myself but there are plenty of experts here to help you.

As a starter for ten I'd suggest :-

1. Some internet research (Google etc).

2. Float test in the bath if small(ish) /kiddies paddling pool if large(ish).

3. Set up an "Album" and post some photos – especially deck and side shots

That should get the wheels turning at least…

Regards,

Dave

[Richard SimpsonParticipant @richardsimpson88330]

Hi David and welcome to the forum. With this type of model it would be normal for the entire superstructure to lift off as a single piece. The screwed down hatches will probably give to access to steering linkages and would not need to be removed unless you encounter any challenges with the rudders.

First job will be to see if the superstructure simply lifts up. If it does then take some pictures of the insides and we can see what we've got to work with. I would not do a float test until you can see the insides so the first job is to access the hull.

How do you know it is a radio controlled model and not a static version? Assuming someone told you surely they know how to access the internals otherwise how would they know it is radio control?

Value is very much dependent on the quality of the build and most RC modellers you will come across will want to see the insides before agreeing to buy.

[Colin BishopModerator @colinbishop34627]

Second hand model boats have no defined value. Price would depend on how well made it is, what equipment it is fitted with and whether anyone happens to be interested at the time it is put up for sale.

Generally speaking, if it is a good example you might get the price of the original kit plus a bit extra depending on how it is fitted out and what working features it has. There is generally no monetary value attached to the work involved in constructing it. Generally, model boats, and especially kits, even if well made do not attract high prices.

Did you buy it because you liked it and wanted to put it on display or with a view to selling it on?

Colin

[David InglisParticipant @davidinglis20676]

Many thanks for the helpful responses. The model was on sale at a local auction and not attracting much interest so I bid and bought it on impulse as it looked good value for the money. I did think it was a quality plastic display model but when I went to lift it I found it was extremely heavy and weighted towards the stern.

Following the responses I lifted off the superstructure and unscrewed panels at the stern which revealed electric motors and associated wiring etc. There were no batteries or any control box that I could see in the bow section but there are wiring connections and a speaker along with plastic tubing for, I now presume, the fire fighting equipment.

The vessel is the Tito Neri made, I believe, by Graupert. It is 100 cm long and around 33cm wide. The main mast has detached as have some small items such as radar and some ornamental lights but it would not take much to repair it.

I will probably try to sell it on but I am sorely tempted to get it working and try it out but have no idea what additional equipment would be required. Any guidance would be appreciated. If anyone can let me know how to attach photos to the thread I will post some.

David

[Colin BishopModerator @colinbishop34627]

Instructions for adding photos here:

**LINK**

Colin

[Richard SimpsonParticipant @richardsimpson88330]

It would be a great help if you could post some pictures of the internals. As Colin has said you first have to create an album, upload your pictures to the album then you can insert them from the album into a post.

Seeing what you have will be a great help in trying to determine what you need. There is basically no such thing as a 'control box' so not surprising you cannot see one. You basically need a radio transmitter that is paired with the receiver in the model. Into the receiver is plugged your servos for rudders and accessories, speed controllers for the motors and a power supply to the receiver if it is not getting it from one of the speed controllers. If you have a speaker you may have a sound system and you may have bow or stern thrusters to complicate the issue.

Try to get some pictures sorted out.

[David InglisParticipant @davidinglis20676]

My first attempt at some photos. Will try and work out how to take better ones of the electrics.

At first sight I cannot see what may be a receiver and no obvious aerial unless it is through the mast.

[Colin BishopModerator @colinbishop34627]

David,

You may find it useful to have a look at this article on model boat electrics by the late Dave Milbourn. It was written a while back but most of the information is still valid and will give you a good overview of the subject and what to look for in the model.

**LINK**

Colin

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