Director class paddle tug

[brownowl]

I am a new member in the process of building the paddle tug Forceful from plans in Jan 1980 Model Boats.  This is my first attempt at building a paddle-wheeled vessel and would welcome any advice on how to power up the wheels independently in conjunction with a working rudder.  I don't have the magazines that contained information on the mechanics involved.  Any information would be welcome.

Gerry Tovell
Billericay, Essex

[Barry]

 In the Nov/Dec 1991 issue of Radio Control Boat Modeller, the UK one. Ray Brigden builds a Graupner Glasgow with independent paddle drive using two motors and chain drive to each half shaft. Not much detail in the text except that he used Fischer-technic sprockets and chain. You could do something similar and use a Action Electronics  P94 dual ESC and mixer to control both motors and rudder. See  http://www.action-electronics.co.uk/mixers.php  for details.
Shameless plug but I make a laser cut paddle wheel kit to suit the 'Model Boats' Forceful.  If you'd like any details about the kit let me know and I'll be in touch.