In this episode of DIY Radio Control Hobbies, host Chris Chianelli dips into the relaxing end of the RC-hobbies spectrum -- radio-controlled sailboats. He provides tips and suggestions for assembly of a 1-meter racing sailboat, covers some sailing terminology and demonstrates some RC sailing techniques.
Introduction to RC Sailboats RC sailboats are beautiful to watch, mixing aerodynamics and hydrodynamics as they are steered and controlled by the hobbyist. Their operation is not only enjoyable, but it may teach you a few things about principles of real sailing.
RC sailboats are available in a variety of sizes and degrees of completion (i.e., pre-assembly), and most have a considerable amount of scale detail that closely follows the characteristics found on actual full-sized sailboats. Some, like the Kyosho Fortune (TM), come with the servos and radio receiver already installed (figure A).
In this segment, Chris shows some of the techniques for installing some of the trimming and deck details on a Kyosho Seawind (TM), a racing yacht with a beautifully molded and detailed body (figure B). This kit comes as an ARS kit (Almost Ready to Sail). Other boats featured in the segment include the 36-inch Kyosho Fairwinds (TM) and the 24-inch Kyosho Fortune 612.
For a beginner, it should take about a weekend to finish a boat like the Seawind. Here are some things you should know when assembling and outfitting this boat.
Important: This demonstration shows basic instructions for assembly and operation of this particular model of RC sailboat. There are variations in assembly for each particular model. Read and carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions that come with your boat, whether it is this particular model or another. Additional information about assembly as well as running, troubleshooting and fine-tuning the model can be found in the manufacturer's instructions.
- On the Seawind, the sail-winch and rudder servo are mounted in the mid-section of the boat (figure C). This particular boat uses two rudder-linkage setups. Most other boats use only one. The positive steering offered by the dual linkage enhances the performance of this racing model.
- Deck details and accessories are either screwed in or simply snap into position, according to the manufacturer's instructions. Some are secured using a thick-viscosity CA (cyanoacrylate) glue (figure D).
- The helm is completed by the installation of the steering pedestal (figure E) using CA glue.
- This boat, like many RC boats, has a removable keel and ballast (figure F) and removable rigging, making them easier to transport in a small vehicle.
- The keel and ballast simply fasten to the hull using a single nut that is tightened at the top of the deck (figure G). No tools are required to attach or remove the keel. The nut is simply hand-tightened to secure it.
In the segment that follows, Chris installs the mast and rigging.
RESOURCES :
Kyosho Seawind RC sailboat
Great Planes Model Distributors
Website: www.greatplanes.com
Fairwind RC sailboat
Great Planes Model Distributors
Website: www.greatplanes.com
Fortune 612 RC sailboat
Great Planes Model Distributors
Website: www.greatplanes.com
Excalibur RC sailboat
Hobby Lobby International, Inc.
Brentwood, TN 37027
Phone: 615-373-1444
Fax: 615-377-6948
Website: www.hobby-lobby.com
| 
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
