Member Model – Bill M’s Trident III

We have many members who can build models from kits, and others who can build from scratch where plans are available. Bill is likely the only member who both designs and builds models from scratch.

          One such vessel is his rescue boat, “Trident III”. It is equipped with several means of rescuing boats. It has a long wire hook at the stern for models which have a railing or similar that the hook can latch on to. If that can’t be used, it has a boom that can be extended from one side to scoop up the model which is in difficulty. In addition, it is fitted with a remote-release tow hook which, as Bill points out, will be useful if the model being towed is likely to sink before it can be brought safely home.

          Bill designed this model to be sturdy. The hull is plank-on-rib construction, with 1/2” plywood ribs and 1/8” birch planks. It is 1:24 scale and measures 50” long, 12” beam, 8” draft, and weighs 44lb in sailing condition. Above deck are two deckhouses, constructed from 1/8” marine ply, which sit over openings in the deck, and which provide access to the hull internals.

          The model is powered by two Graupner 700 Turbo motors driving 2½” diameter propellers. Power is supplied by a 12V 7.2Ah gell cell. The ESC’s and motors are kept cool by fans which draw fresh air in through vents in the forward deckhouse.

          There are several remotely-operated fittings. There are two water cannons mounted on the deckhouse supplied by a pump which can be turned on and off. Switches can turn the lights on or off and the siren on and off. Another switches off one propulsion motor to extend the battery life, or turns it on to have both motors powered for higher speed. A low voltage alarm is fitted, and has a warning light over the stern. All these auxiliaries are supplied from a 12V 5Ah gell cell. The radar and spotlights on the forward deckhouse are supplied from a separate set of AA batteries, through manually-operated switches. The anchor windlass is powered by a 3V battery.

          On the after deckhouse is mounted an RIB (rigid inflatable boat) which can be operated independently.

          The combined wheelhouse and chartroom in the forward deckhouse is fully equipped with chart table, wheel, radio and radar sets. Crewmen and women on deck and in the wheelhouse bring the model to life.

          Bill has a trailer to move the model around.