@Nick Yes, that's what got me confused. Measuring the plans that I have, the deck step is roughly 20" from the bow. On my ship, it's 23 1/2". I'm not sure where this difference came from. All the ribs are spaced evenly. So what's wrong? (or who's wrong?) @Tug If you could, that would be great.
The even rib spacing might be what got you - wouldn't surprise me if not all the frames on the plan are constant distance apart. You may have also gotten tripped by measuring the distance between frames on the plans, and then used that distance between your own frames rather that midpoint to midpoint (thus lengthening the section by 1/4" or so every frame). Either way, even at 3+ inches, I really wouldn't bother caring. Its all superstructure there, and the worst you've done is create a little more point scoring area. Really not a thing to worry about.
I can. Worst case, I bring a fiberglass Suffren hull (cut, with decks and subdecks, motor, gearbox, propshaft) and we put your stuff in it Saturday night. Just kidding, that'd be as psycho as building a convoy ship from a ZipZap racer in a drunken frenzy one night.
If you don't expose the metal components to air and instead leave them submerged, they don't rust, right?
I fear/hope for a day where someone penetrates the internal armor and cuts the case on my LiPO battery. I fear it because the ship will be a total loss. I hope for it because NO ONE will ever beat me for 'Coolest Sinking'.
While I can't speak for the CD or other captains I wouldn't worry about it to much seeing as it is your rookie ship. Everyone in the hobby tends to cut rookies a lot of slack when it comes to honest building mistakes. We'd rather have you there and having fun/learning about the hobby then sitting at home pissed off that you can't play.
I measured the French plans, and it's 19.42" from the bow. I would ask on the IRC list, but it's a rookie mistake, and it's one that INCREASES your penetrable area, so I don't think anyone would have a problem with you battling.
Ok, I'll ask over on Yahoo. Hopefully, I'll be fine and be able to yell YAHOOOOOO!! (I must not be getting enough sleep)
So the hull is fine. I've decided I'm not going to battle Suffren at NATS. It's just too much hassle trying to get her running and fairly reliable in a week. She will be ready for the Fall Regional battle and to declare French dominance.
How french, to surrender before the battle begins! I would urge you to try anyways. Taking it to Nats is a great chance to work some troubles out, and to get advice and help from some very talented individuals. Doing so will definitely up your ability to effectively battle at the Fall Regional.
I think Nick is right. Bring all your stuff, and you'll get lots of help. And it's not like Suffren's a tough ship to fit stuff into, or particularly complicated. I think it's doable. Try to mount your guns. Do what you can on the ship and get help on the rest. If you can get her sheeted, and have the drive and rudder working, then you're at least 1/2way there. Functional pump is bonus points
Ha........HA.... I have propulsion and steering and got the port side of the hull sheeted. (pics tonight) BTW, I won't be staying overnight at NATS, just driving down each day. I forgot to mention, I'm bringing Suffren to NATS, I just won't be battling her.
