Is it possible to make a scale smoke screen generator for model boats? Such as my PT boat? Any ideas or tips?

Thank you!

Kmot,
Is it possible to make a 'scale' smoke screen generator? Probably not, unless your boat is pretty good sized to start with. But is it possible to put a smoke generator into a 'smaller' boat? Sure, within reason, but it won't be 'scale'. Just make the smoke 'look' like it's coming from the 'scale' generator. Does that make sense?
- 'Doc

That makes sense to me Doc. What type of equipment are you referring to?

Kmot,
There are several 'smoke generators' on the market. I can't make any recomendations cuz' I haven't used any of them. But, one of them should be small enough to get inside your boat. Then, just make the scale smoke generator ~on~ your boat the exit point for the 'real' generator ~in~ the boat. I'm sure there's someone here who'z used one, so 'they' need to speak up...
- 'Doc

I have a few smoke generators. Unfortunately I do not know the brand name. They are new. Uses 8-12 volt DC. It is quite a small unit.. Probably 3" X 2" If you fill it with fluid it will probably last 10 min. I was going to put a switch on it and use it as I flip my switch on my transmitter. You can also extend the tank or add a bigger tank to it. It also has a buit in fan. Ill post some pics when I get a chance. There are no markings on it.

I knew that I saw it last night, I was doing some reading in the "Library". M.A.C.K. Products has a smoke unit made for the PT boats. www.mackproducts.com , Model #7090-ST.

Thanks Ron, but the link is something else?

Oops! You're right, my bad! Let's try it again, www.mackproductsrc.com . I didn't add in the "RC".

OK, saw it now! Thanks!

Don't waste your time or $ on those little oil burning smoke makers… you only get a wisp, and you won't even see it if the boat is moving.
The best I've seen is theatrical foggers… a glycol fluid is heated and blown with a fan. You can get some decent smoke, but nothing like the fog bank laid down by a PT's smoke generator. See my "fogger" in action:


Problems- it sucks amps, so if you're not carrying a heavy gel cell, fuhggitaboutit. Also, my home made unit has no safety- run out of fog juice, and it WILL burn. Don't ask.

Also, see an image of a PT smoke screen at:
[link=http://www.geocities.com/ptboatads/]Pats PT Ads[/link]
Pick "Elco", and scroll down to "Elco Smoke"

And see my PT-41 at:
[link=http://www.geocities.com/patspt41/]Pats PT-41[/link]


patmat

PatMat,
Can you provide some design and build info on your smoke generator? I need to build a pretty hefty smoke generator for an eight foot model.
Much obliged for any info you can provide.
thanks,
Albert

I was inspired by the article at:
http://wmunderway.8m.com/cont/smoke/smoke.htm
I can't offer design specifics, but a few hints:
1. 12 or 6v works, either way you'll suck amps... but you do need to experiment with the length and gage of the nichrome heater wire... you want it glowing dull red in free air. Smaller gage needs less length to achieve this... but also has less hot surface area for smoke generation.
2. When the juice runs out in your reservoir, heat will build up quickly... enough to set a plastic tank on fire! (don't ask)
I want to design a thermal shutdown, but haven't yet. Best to use metal with insulation around, to save your boat.
3. Small computer fans are available for 5, 6, & 12v, check out www.jameco.com
Good luck!
Pat M

Much appreciated, patmAt. Sends me in the right direction to experiment,
regards,
Albert