I don’t know why this particular step was so difficult for me to start. Certainly not in terms of complexity, probably more like a feeling I’ve hit a point of “no return” with my design of her propulsion system. IOW, once these bad boy’s are in, I’m committed. No backup plan of using “bilge pump” thrusters now like Rick Teskey uses on his.
The nozzle tubes have been “tacked” in place using West System components 105 Resin, 206 Hardener (Slow), and 403 Microfibers. I used 4 pumps each, and 7 measured tablespoons of 403. The consistency was just about like mayonnaise.
Here the nozzle tubes, along with their “alignment jig” have been laid in. They are level, square, and parallel to the long axis of the ship.
The jig has been removed and I'm test fitting the actual propulsion components.
Like I said, the point of “no return”.
At this point I’m ready to adhere the “jet drive” mounting units to the hull. The issue here is the alignment of the exhaust nozzle of the drive to the nozzle tube. Exactly 1 tube diameter center to center! These photo’s show the ⅝” silicone tubing I was contemplating. But I think I’m going with something robust. Thicker wall flexible tubing such as an automotive heater hose. The Admiral would be upset if she finds cut up pieces of her garden hose in the yard. The force of the nozzle being held fast against the rubber hose will ensure no “blow by”.
The plan is that the motor/jet drive as well as the rubber hose/brass tube assembly will be removable for service/repair or replacement. The Brushless motor housing can be broken down as well, to either lube the shaft seal, or replace the motor. I think long term.
The good news is that at this point, I can toss the whole thing in the water and test what works, and even get some current draw readings. After that I plan on securing the lower half of the upper hull and continue with the assembly.
Now that I got past this mental hurdle, things are moving quickly. Crap I’ve had this hull since we ran in Johnston RI (2002/4 time frame) !!!!
The nozzle tubes have been “tacked” in place using West System components 105 Resin, 206 Hardener (Slow), and 403 Microfibers. I used 4 pumps each, and 7 measured tablespoons of 403. The consistency was just about like mayonnaise.
Here the nozzle tubes, along with their “alignment jig” have been laid in. They are level, square, and parallel to the long axis of the ship.
The jig has been removed and I'm test fitting the actual propulsion components.
Like I said, the point of “no return”.
At this point I’m ready to adhere the “jet drive” mounting units to the hull. The issue here is the alignment of the exhaust nozzle of the drive to the nozzle tube. Exactly 1 tube diameter center to center! These photo’s show the ⅝” silicone tubing I was contemplating. But I think I’m going with something robust. Thicker wall flexible tubing such as an automotive heater hose. The Admiral would be upset if she finds cut up pieces of her garden hose in the yard. The force of the nozzle being held fast against the rubber hose will ensure no “blow by”.
The plan is that the motor/jet drive as well as the rubber hose/brass tube assembly will be removable for service/repair or replacement. The Brushless motor housing can be broken down as well, to either lube the shaft seal, or replace the motor. I think long term.
The good news is that at this point, I can toss the whole thing in the water and test what works, and even get some current draw readings. After that I plan on securing the lower half of the upper hull and continue with the assembly.
Now that I got past this mental hurdle, things are moving quickly. Crap I’ve had this hull since we ran in Johnston RI (2002/4 time frame) !!!!
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