Complete Newbie question

[Seaweed]

I have some idea's building in my head that I know nothing about lol. I have an airboat so this is where the idea stems from. I want to build a RC airboat but not the plastic or fiberglass type. I'm going to build the hull out of aluminum. I guess I came here to ask I know it is feasible but what do I need or what engine, controls and such should I use? A buddy's grandparent fly those planes that go like 150-200mph would those engine's and controls be sufficient? I know nothing at all about this stuff but for some reason think it would be fun. Any input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

[Bigmax]

Prop type guys out here that knows anything about trust or engine size?

What scale are you building? That may help also.

[Seaweed]

I don't really know to be honest. I figured that I would get the other stuff and I can build it to any scale.

[Todd Manchester]

You could use one of those airplane engines without any problems. Depending on the size of the boat would determine the size of the engine.

[Seaweed]

I don't know that I will get to use one of his. What would be some engine names and such or controls that I should be looking for.

[Todd Manchester]

Theres a bunch. I'd say being that you're really new, look at OS engines. There reliable and easy to tune. Being that most of us run cars it's hard to tell you everything you need to know as far as the mechanics, seeing that you will be using plane stuff. The radio gear however will be the same as we use in the cars, you'll need a 2 channel surface radio (either 27mhz or 75mhz) they range in prices for $50-$60 to $250. Your best bet would be check out a local hobby shop and see what they have so you can get some ideas as to how you want to build it.

[Gary]

Seaweed. This is a tough one. Im wondering why you want to build it out of aluminum? In RC, you have to have the lightest material that you can use while still being structually sound. If you really want to get radical, go with carbon fiber and titanium. :)
As far as the engine goes, youll have to talk to the airplane guys. If you plan on running the boat as how a real one looks, youll have several problems. One, the engine will probably overheat. Airplane motors are designed to utilize the prop wash and fast speed for cooling. An airboat has the prop facing rearward and is slow. A car motor is designed for torque and not RPM like the plane motors. Of course, they make premade airboats, but that would be any fun for the creative minds. :)

Try RC universe. Thats a great site. And look at towerhobbies.

You picked a tough project bro. You got alot of research to do. Personally, Id look for a "Kit". That way to still get to build it but the engineering has been done for you allready.

Lets us know what your doing. Id like to drive to drive it when you get done. :) It would be cool to see it being built here with pictures. :)

[Todd Manchester]

Being that you're going to need help and advise, I'd say buy all you can from a local hobby shop, they will a lot more willing to help when you're buying from them, rather than getting stuff on-line and expecting them to help you with it.

[Seaweed]

Thats very true. However I don't believe we have one around unless I drive to Houston. The gentlemen that does the airplanes has been doing so for a very long time and he will help(do) the engine for me. The only reason I'm doing an aluminum is just cuz I have a real one and it just seems a little more intriging (sp?) to me. When I get everything going then I will start posting pics and when I get it done then maybe I can meet ya'll where ever ya'll hang out or somehting. I will keep informed and thanks for the info.

[Todd Manchester]

sounds good

[Gary]

Please do. Id like to see the project unfold. :)