Building a type vii or ix from plans

[isw]

I have obtained copies of plans for both a type vii and type ix from Taubman. They are the 1/40th plans by D.A.Francis (originally). Has anybody else built from these?

This will be my first build (and a huge learning process) so I was hoping that the experiences of others could help make it more trial and less error (there will be enough of the latter as it is).

[skiprch]

Hi,
I tried to do a

Hi,
I tried to do a fiberglass layup for my first sub and it did not turn out at all. I spent a lot of time and money and got nowhere. My wife did not like the fumes either. Just doing a master plug with all the detail takes a very long time. If your goal is to get a working R/C sub in the water and not take forever I would recommend getting a hull from one of the suppliers of the type 9 or 7.
Just my 2 cents.
Good luck,
Walt

[JWLaRue]

Building a WW2 sub from

Building a WW2 sub from scratch can be a rewarding experience and/or a frustrating one. It all depends on what your goals are, as well as your experience in this type of project.

You may wish to check out the build thread that fellow forum member Mylo has been posting about his experience in scratch-building a Type VII. Part 3 of his thread is at: http://s181686668.onlinehome.us/phpB...ic.php5?t=6556

-Jeff

[isw]

Hi Jeff and Walt,

Thank you

Hi Jeff and Walt,

Thank you for the replies. Walt, I am aware that it is a huge undertaking, but my primary goal is to build a working model, actually sailing it is secondary so I am in no rush. I won't be in the house when I use resin etc so fumes/mess will not be a problem.

I am about to start importing the plans into a CAD package so that I can easily build mulitiple copies of bits to cater for my 'learning opportunities' (mistakes). I have also been going through Mylo's postings (thanks Jeff) as well as any others that I can come across.

Again, thanks for the replies.

[jeffrey j]

...

hi ISW,
I built 5 uboat hulls from foam, then glassed them over. Depending on what your wanting to do , you would be light years ahead starting out with a pre-made hull. You can still add all the details from your plans to the hull, or even a kit if you started out with one of the Engle u-boats they have a type IX and type VII. Foam, fiberglass, and the resin is really an awefull mess to get into. If you were interested in a sub that no hull or kit was already out there, I would say go for it. Anyway, good luck with your project no matter what you decide. You came to the right place for help and advice. Jeff Jones

[isw]

Hi Jeff,
Thanks for the input.

Hi Jeff,
Thanks for the input. I liked the idea of 'getting my hands dirty' as the build is part of the attraction. However, looking at the feedback from you guys who have been down this path before, I think that I will look into premade hulls before I make a final decision.

- Ian

[jeffrey j]

...

hello Ian,
The only reason I would suggest a kit or a ready to build hull is its still alot of time and effort to complete but well worth the end result. Detailing a hull or kit is a great undertaking in itself , with any of the WWII subs. good luck, keep us up to date on your project. Jeff Jones