Radio controlled model by James Ley

For the running hardware, I used two motors (without gear-box) with two 3-bladed brass propellers (clockwise and anti-clockwise), a self-made brass ruder, two 3mm steel shafts with brass tubes, and three 1" by 3" zinc plates for ballast. The middle propeller of the model remains static.

For the electronics, a standard 7.2V 6-cell rechargeable battery, Futaba 2-channel unit with speed control, receiver and one servo.

Materials I used: Brass propellers ( 4mm thread, clockwise and anti-clockwise, 20mm or 25mm in diameter): www.model-dockyard.com (England). Grauper Speed 280, 6.0V motors: www.Hobby-Lobby.com Zinc plates: local hardware store (Home Depot). The rest of the hardware and electronics can be found in local hobby store.

Model assembly: While maintaining the integrity of the decks, saw cut the interior decks which cannot be seen from outside to reduce weight of the superstructure. Power switch is hidden in one of the cargo holes in the bow deck section. Use 4 mm diameter brass rod and cut out the rudder from brass plates to custom make the rudder (maintain the same depth of the original rudder and increase the width by 100% for better maneuverability). Use epoxy to glue the propellers and the 3mm shafts together.