Southampton - Harbour berthing tug.
My first model was built from kit, while the next two were scratch built. I've always avoided 'ready to run' models on the basis that much of my enjoyment comes from the build process. However a model tug on eBay attracted my attention and after bidding £70 I became the proud owner of Southampton.
Comments, observations and details on modifying Southampton.
Southampton is a well made, well presented little model which works out of the box. On the water she looks good but handles like a pregnant whale.
There are two reasons for this (a) Both props are served by one speed controller and (b) Maximum rudder angle is 10 degrees. I like to use all my models off one 40Mhz Futaba 6Ex transmitter and the RTR (supplied) handset is a 'no-name' 2 channel 27Mhz unit which needs frequent battery changes. The stand supplied with Southampton is flimsy and doesn't properly 'hold' the model - particularly when in transit.
In summary, the issues and solutions I believed I wanted to apply are below:
->Problem - Both props served by one ESC. Solution - Use 2 new ESCs.
->Problem - Limited rudder angle. Solution - Replace Servo and linkage.
->Problem - 27MHz dedicated transmitter. Solution - Upgrade to shared 40MHz.
->Problem - Hideous aerial. Solution - Replace with something more sympathetic.
->Problem - Insubstantial stand. Solution - Build a new one.