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Graf Spee Model Ship

This page outlines the creation of a scratch-built working model of the WWII "pocket battleship" Graf Spee.

 

 

Graf Spee port side

 

applying grey enamel paint to the hull

 

The model on this page is a 66cm long (1/275 scale) electric-powered version of the German Cruiser "Admiral Graf Spee".

 

The model uses as its basis a card model kit, however, the hull is constructed from an MDF base with dope-and-tissue covered balsa wood sides and deck. This provides a very robust hull structure.

 

The superstructure is derived directly from the card model kit. This means that it is relatively quick to build and comes pre-coloured, which also saves time. A few of the components required additional balsa wood reinforcement, but apart from that the model only needed varnishing to complete.

 

Graf Spee stern

 

launching the model

 

Graf Spee bow

 

With the lightweight card superstructure and MDF base the centre of gravity of the model is suitably low, giving it good sailing characteristics.

Graf Spee afloat

 

Graf Spee from port bow

 

Graf Spee forward detail

 

 

Once the footprint of the superstructure on the deck had been ascertained, openings could be cut into the deck within these boundaries to allow access to the battery and the Mabuchi electric motor. Physically the motor is the same size as that used in Scalextric cars, although it has a lower power output.

 

Graf Spee superstructure removed revealing access hatches

 

Graf Spee electric motor, flexible joint and end of prop shaft

 

 

The motor was fixed to a mounting block using servo-tape and the motor-shaft was connected to the propshaft using a push-fit flexible plastic tube. A 4.8 volt 60mAh NiMH rechargeable battery pack provided the power source for the model.

 

A switch was incorporated into the deck, just aft of the front turret, to allow the motor to be switched on and off easily.

 

 

Graf Spee propeller and rudder

 

Graf Spee forward gun turret and motor switch

 

Power transmission was via a "Junior Propshaft Assembly" manufactured by the model manufacturing company "Radio-Active". The rudder was constructed from brass tube and plastic card.

 

 

Graf Spee model viewed from above

 

 

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