Editorial note:

Ernie Lazenby has for some years had the time and the drive to learn how to build and set up fast electric boats. He has been writing about F/E boats for MMI since 1995. Ernie is no stranger to the winners rostrum so his experience translates to doing as well. Ernie has done a lot... and I mean a lot... like most... (and probably more than he should have done (Sorry Elaine!)) of the set up testing for the GTM range of hulls offered by AsTec.

He has kindly agreed to share some of the work he has done via the web. 

If you choose to build as he suggests then you should have a good solid working model. Please note that this is setup info only and it is assumed that the builder has some experience. This is NOT a full build description and you should note that where things are not specifically mentioned it does not mean it does not need doing. e.g. where things are attached to the hull it needs reinforcing appropriately. 

You can see from the pictures that Ernie in many cases used lightply (and so do I). This does not mean that this is the only material you can use for example plastic sheet could be substituted for running surfaces. 400 motors do not have a great deal of power - you need to remember this and build appropriately light. If you over prop the motor WILL burn out (ask my son!!). If the build does not work for you or you need additional advice then please contact AsTec first!!

Ernie provides a general disclaimer READ IT!

Here it is: 

The following is information as to how I got this boat to work. I do not accept any responsibility in the event of boat failing to work as expected. I can only say that what I describe works. It is likely other people have other methods and may even be able to improve on what I have done. That being so then spread the word. Refer to the photographs where necessary

The AsTec Miss Thriftway Kit

Some thoughts and suggestions by Ernie Lazenby

First: I decided to make a typical shovel nose hydroplane from the balsa wood kit without any attempt to make it into any particular boat. The nature of the kit and the boat design makes this possible.

by Ernie Lazenby

The following is information as to how I got this boat to work. I do not accept any responsibility in the event of boat failing to work as expected. I can only say that what I describe works. It is likely other people have other methods and may even be able to improve on what I have done. That being so then spread the word. Refer to the photographs where necessary

For maximum speed I opted for a surface drive system. Experience dictates that this is the best drive system.

   

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Making the Speedline PR K7 into a fast working model

by Ernie Lazenby

The Speedline Pocket Rocket is a small (pocket sized) model of Jet Propelled K7 prototype. It is produced as a static model but can be motorised fairly easily.(Ed) The following instructions result in a model that runs with a Graupner speed 400 6volt motor Read the whole article

Converting the Touchwood K4 Blubird for Radio Control

by ERNIE LAZENBY 2006

back to ernies setups index

Disclaimer.

I offer the following guidance on the basis that I know it works having built this model however I cannot be responsible for any model not working as intended because the building of each model is beyond my control.

The owner of Touchwood and the owner of the ASTEC have my permission to publish this information.

These notes of guidance supersede my review published in MMI Magazine in 1995 because I have learnt much about this model and how to get the best out of it.

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