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     The Springer Tugs (original) are a "one class" model, meaning that there are design specifications so that the models are consistent from one builder to another.  This is mainly for competition events such as racing, water polo, contests, etc. where winning is up to the skill of the operator (pilot) and not because of the deviations in the design of the boat to make it faster than the competition.  (See http://ssmbc-fl.org/SSMBC-Springers.htm for more information.)

     As you can see in the specifications (above link and other places) there are no restrictions on what is mounted on the deck.  There is no restriction on the scale of these tugs as that is usually determined by what is on the deck and matches figures (normally based on a 6-foot male, average height).  Some Springers are built to look like a real truckable push boat, while others are built for fun such as a battleship.

     The history of the Springer Tug dates back to the creator who saw a truckable towboat and decided to build a model of it and somewhere along the line a class was created.  A truckable towboat (also known a tug or push boat) is a boat that is small enough to be transported on land from site to site (photo, right).  Because of highway limitations, depending on the size of this boat, permits might be needed to transport any that are oversized loads.  The boats are usually lifted off the trailer (lowboy) by a crane and placed in the water.  If the boat is small enough it might even be launched off the trailer.  Most often the boat's pilot house is lifted off the hull and transported separately, especially if there are overhead clearance problems such as wire or bridges.
 
     My plans here are to build two Springers (hull names Springer #1 and Springer #2) each with their own look.  However, in keeping with the springer rules and regulations, they will meet those specifications as to the hull shape and size as well as the other rules.

Springer #1

Information

      Springer # 1 is based on a real truckable towboat (see photos below).  The real boat has a lifting pilot house, which is somewhat unique.  Real boat specifications: Length is 25 feet; width (beam) is 13'2", tow "knees" are 8 feet high.

     In scaling the photos and comparing to the model hull size a scale of 1/16.667 (rounded to 1/16 scale because of figures availability) was established.  Photos were then measured to establish the dimensions of various features.  The Bruder figures (below) are about 1/17 scale.

     Construction started on 10/1/2019.  Most of adhesive used is Gorilla Glue.  Some modifications are being made to the basic kit.  Inside modifications are mostly for strengthening increasing the deck to side seam/joint from 1/4 inch to 3/8 inch.  The main deck was replaced by a full sheet of model plywood because the cutouts will be small than the pre-cut Zippkits deck piece.

     All work above the deck will be created mostly using 3D design and printed parts.  This includes the bulwarks, superstructure, lift mechanism, H-Bits, and other deck components.

Download the future SSMANA article on this boat: PDF/Springer-1.pdf

Real Boat Photos

 

Springer #1 Model Photos

Below left, construction started on the Zippkits hull.  Below right, strengthening modifications made to the hull before adding the deck.

Below left, Bruder figures for the crew (the one on the right modified for detail).  Below right, 3D Model for layout of the deck and cabin parts.

Below left, 3D Model of the Cabin Lift (with cabin for mounting).  Below right, actual 3D printed Cabin Lift (works great).  Belt drive drive is from an old inkjet printer.

Below left, 3D Model of the Bullwarks.  Due to the size limit of the 3D printer, this had to be maed in several sections cemeted together (shonw by different dolors).

Springer #2

Information

Springer # 2 is a fictitious small riverboat style model with a comical touch with having a "skeleton crew".