ORIGINAL: mainiac68

Interesting responses so far. The ''Kitchen rudder'' might be something I'ld like to use in the future but not this one. The tug is modelled after a LT Army tug. Originally built as steam, this would represent a later configuration after being refitted to diesel.The scale prop will be 3.5 in. or 4 in. (can't remember without looking up) I can fit the performance of the gas engine to the boat by sizing the prop diameter and pitch. I've done electric for 25 years so am quite familiar wiht that whole scene. As this boat was originally built for steam and I have a single and a boiler built by a friend but it is not reversing. Also, steam is a whole different commitment to the model and I have numerous things to build before that.

I am in southwest Florida and am surrounded by water to sail in; ponds, canals, lakes, etc. Organized RC boating is done in many parks and I've only been to a handfull and know three that allow IC. Anyway, I've run weed wacker motors but just in fast hulls, none in scale. I have seen it though and that's why I'm interested. From my limited knowledge of full scale workboats ( derived from fishing and lobster boats) I would need a gearbox that is basically in/out and reversing. Conveniently the gas motor is clutched so that problem is taken care of. So, discounting electric completely........any ideas?