here are some thoughts on Mr Darby -
the scale 1:38 is crazy, but 1:32 is a regular scale for model trains. Loads of figures are available at that scale which make good crewmen, even though they are over-priced.
I am changing my Mr Darby to another boat entirely - either Volunteer or Lincoln sea ( owned by K-Sea) and they end up about same size as Mr Darby, using 1:32 scale!
I am going to use belt drive, despite good advice to the contrary, because I am going to be pushing a 12foot barge, and can get a 2:1 reduction gear.
Also that puts the Pittman motors further back - under the rear hatch, for easier access, and to help move center of gravity back.
I am filling the front section with 2 or 3 gallons of water, which otherwise makes the tug front heavy.
There is a great source of belts, pulleys, gears , etc on SDP-SI.com
Has anyone painted/sealed the inside of the hull?? The fiberglass looks like it could use some sealant, especially on mine where it will be filled with water.
Has anyone tried finish-coat epoxy on the hull ? I know some makes require high cure temperature which is a pain. I have a lot of wood added to the outside of Mr darby to change the hull shape, and I want to make sure it stays well sealed. Does Marine gelcoat come as a paint or a covering that needs paint on top?
Paul