Electric boat kit???

[elsteve88]

I've got an old electric RC truck and I'd like to use the radio and batteries for a boat. I'd really like to build a boat that will accept my "normal" size servos and 6 cell batteries (I plan on buying a marine ESC). Can someone reccomend a kit (I'd like to build, but not necessarily from just the plans)? I'd like something stable and fun for my kids. Speed is always good, but not a priority in this case. Thanks!

[Ron Olson]

This is how I got into boating when I got tired of dumping all of my OT money into my trucks. There are a lot of kits available, from plans to any stage that you want. Do you have a type of hull that you like? Seeing how it is your first boat I would recommend a mono hulled boat but you have to decide what you and the kids like.
Here's a few sites that you can look in to give you some ideas as to what's out there:
http://www.drcwebservices.com/ffe/
http://www.finedesignrc.com/
www.danvo.com
http://www.climateboatworks.bizland.com/

[elsteve88]

I was thinking mono hull or deep vee. Thanks for the links - after checking them out and getting a better understanding of the cost (especially the running hardware) I'm thinking an RTR may be a better choice for me. I like the Hobbico Nitro Hammer because of the cost, the fiberglass hull and the tuned pipe. Any opinions of this boat for a beginner? (I run a T-Maxx, so I am familiar with nitro engines).

[Micho523]

I am new to the RC boating world myself, and I just got a nitro hammer. :D I think that its a great boat! My only beef with it is that the rudder is somewhat flimsy, and the prop is especially easy to break. So if you do decide to get this boat, go ahead and buy a few replacement props while your at your LHS. :)

[BoatDoc]

get an extra rudder too!!! i've only broken three of 'em :eek: you might want to try an octura X427 prop. it's bronze and from what i've seen so far, it'll let you run a bit faster.

[Ron Olson]

Check with Hobbico on the free upgraded rudder that they have for the Nitro Hammer. There have been problems with the boat coming with broken props because of the way that it is packaged.
Do a "Search" for Nitro Hammer and you should see a lot of info come up on the boat. There are some low or no cost things that you can do to it to make it better but it's a boat that don't disappoint once it hits the water.

[elsteve88]

Thanks for all the great information. One additional question: Can someone recommend a fuel to use with the Hammer?

Also, I sent an email to Hobbico about the upgrade rudder and here is their response:

Thank you for your recent email. There is not a "upgraded rudder",
available for the Nitro Hammer. However, if your rudder has broken I
can send you a replacement at no charge. I will need the following
information,

1. Copy of sales receipt

and

2. Mailing address

BoatSupport@hobbico.com
217-398-8970

[BoatDoc]

i like to use trinity monster power in either 20% or 30% nitro.