FRESHWATER

Paddlewheels

I'm using 'Graupner' paddlewheels which are available as a kit for use on their 'Glasgow' paddle tug but with a few alterations. I've made four more (per wheel) strengthening webs added between the existing moulded ones in the centre of the hub, extending the spokes on the 'outside' to the centre of the wheel and removing triangular segments from the central disc;

looks much better painted...

Also, the floats will be fitted using short lengths of brass tube with 8BA bolts inside instead of the plastic rivets supplied. This is because the floats and outer rim of the wheel are made of vinyl type plastic and cannot really be glued as far as I know, here's one assembled;

I intend to glue slices of hexagonal styrene rod over the plastic rivets (in the feathering mechanism) so they look like bolts.

Paddleboxes/Sponsons

I made them from styrene sheet, the black areas are just black styrene sheet (because that's what I had) the thin strips in the paddle vent are from an art supplies shop and the lettering is for model railway station nameboards. The structure is quite flimsy but should be OK when the roof/deck is added, but first I need to drill for the port holes, fit ventilators and hand rails, paint them, add interior lights...

How they look on the model. This picture was taken before I finished the paddle vent...

...also the hull is sealed with fibreglass tissue and resin but needed sanding, drilling and painting. That is now done;

Notice the dents and scrapes on the hull? I could have sanded them away to leave a smooth finish but decided they make it look more 'used' and like just about every working ship or boat I've seen (with the possible exception of luxury liners) After I've added lettering (assuming I can find anywhere still selling lettraset-type rub-on transfers in white) it will all be coated in matt finish clear lacquer so they should be less obvious but still visible and the addition of some rust streaks will make it look like the ship is in constant use with only time for running repairs between winter refits. At least it SHOULD! (I'm hoping it wasn't a mistake to leave the hull so rough looking, won't know for sure until it's finished!)   The picture on the left shows how much is now complete.... The sponsons are still temporarily attached with magnetic 'aquarium algae scrapers' so the starboard one is sticking out away from the hull, there's some more work to do before I can fix them on permanently.

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