by Les Foran
1/384 DKM Bismarck (Lindberg)
This ship was built as a powered R/C model. As such, it does not feature all the detailing and correction that went into my display model DKM Tirpitz from Lindberg.
However, significant modifications were made. The kit's single rudder setup was employed, with the rudder enlarged. The turrets were detailed, ship's boats detailed, anchor chains added basic rigging added.
Internally, the drive system was completely replaced. All three screws were powered by individual motors, with stainless steel shafts running through brass tubes. Each motor can be cut out separately. Servos operate the rudder and the main turret linkage. A Traxxas electronic speed control is used.
JLine radio gear is used, using 3 channels of a 4-channel radio. Reciever and servos are driven by a Ni-Cad battery, drive motors are powered by Nimh cells.
This ship made her maiden voyage June 1, 2006 on a pond at the east end of Ogallala. All went well.
My cat Peanut is my Inspector of Battleships and is shown checking out the equipped hull in a float test, and later, observing a leak check before going out on the "big water".
