Frighter Model Length.

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Re: Frighter Model Length.

by scots bob » October 16, 2017, 6:34 pm

fall doc tried to get on last night I will keep it short for now

Re: Frighter Model Length.

by Farmall Doctor » October 13, 2017, 9:30 am

Hi Bob! I am always open to tips or suggestions!

Re: Frighter Model Length.

by scots bob » October 1, 2017, 7:35 pm

I was having trouble getting on the site I have done some models from scratch ihave some good ideas

Re: Frighter Model Length.

by Guest » September 14, 2017, 8:33 am

I have seen some really good models made from metal. When I was living in Europe during the 1970s I remember coming across some great metal models of ships and train locomotives while in the UK. My only experience has been with brass photo etch, which in a few cases I have soldered together to make additions to plastic models to enhance their detail. Your project sounds interesting to say the least!

Re: Frieghter Model Length.

by Farmall Doctor » September 1, 2017, 11:34 am

Hi guys! Thanks for the kind replies. The more I think on the subject, I am leaning towards making my model to full size and scale in HO. We have a very nice annual toy and modelling show nearby, so in display it would be effective to show the true great size by displaying a simple HO train layout to go with it. Even in a shortened state it will be very large and heavy, so what's another foot of hull? haha. Thanks for the mention of the book
https://kalmbachhobbystore.com/product/book/12497
I will check it out.
I am a full time Farm Equipment mechanic with a well equipped repair, fabrication, and machine shop, so I will be working with metal. I don't get along with wood. My model will be of "The International" as you may have guessed by my other posts on this subject. BGSU has a new archivist and he feels confident in finding me a set of blueprints or other materials! He is excited about helping hobbyists and enthusiasts in general on the subject of Lake Freighters.
I will keep you informed with progress on finding the resources and with construction in general.
Thanks again!
Darryn.

Re: Frighter Model Length.

by kamco » August 31, 2017, 6:17 am

You are correct in all ways re size,fun etc.Also correct in that this forum is not used much now.I still build. I am completing model # 131.Have been building for over 50 years.I used to post progress photos on the Gallery's model page, but this has not been available for several months Perhaps some can get the powers to be to restore this valuable page.I have tried.Good luck to all,Keep on Building,Keep on posting.
Dave

Re: Frighter Model Length.

by Guest » August 30, 2017, 7:40 am

Your calculations for a 620 foot classic Great Lakes freighter look spot on. As far as modeling is concerned, the primary constraint is whether you want to build an accurate scale model or one that is representative of a particular vessel type. If accuracy is a secondary consideration or space is an issue than you can certainly build one that is shortened in scale to fit your particular needs. This could be simply done by retaining the bow and stern in accurate scale and reducing the length of the cargo hold. I have seen this done both ways for model railroad layouts and both give fantastic results. I believe that Kalmbach Publishing (which prints several modeling magazines) recently published a book about modeling ports with a section about ships that may be of help.

As far as static ship display models are concerned I believe that many are based off the 1/16 of an inch to 1 foot scale, but I may be wrong as I have mainly built plastic models over the years with the Thomas W. Lamont kit by Carr Hobby being my only Great Lakes subject I have ever built (this being back in the mid-1980s). In any case, you can really use any scale you wish for such models with a primary constraint being the availability of fittings for detailing unless you are skilled enough to create your own.

As a side note, one common mistake I have seen with many ship models is that few builders weather them with features such as rust streaks and paint chipping as would be present in a real working vessel. Regardless, if you are building a model for personal purposes just remember to have fun. Over the years I have built several models, both highly detailed and basic, and have found enjoyment and relaxation in both methods. As I have told many younger modelers at various shows..."don't ever let your hobby feel like a job."

Please keep us updated on your progress! Unfortunately, there isn't a lot of activity on this section.

Frighter Model Length.

by Farmall Doctor » August 29, 2017, 12:05 pm

Hi folks! I have been paying closer attention to freighter models that I have seen at various facilities we have visited. I am noticing that many of the models are shortened to a certain extent. For looks, or more likely display-ability I assume. With some quick figuring a classic laker in HO scale would be around 8 inches wide, and 7 feet long! Is there a general rule of thumb for shortening a model, or as I assume, totally up to the taste of the builder? Is there a certain scale that would normally be used?
Thanks for entertaining my questions. I am trying to get things panned out before building a large model of my own.
Darryn

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