| ARK Models of China has been building
large ship kits for a few years. They have recently begun offering their
kits for export. This Field Express Work Ship is one of their most popular
kits. It is typical of the work horse tugs that do everything from salvage
operations to offshore oil platform support.
This kit can be built as a static model or full Remote Controlled ship.
Everything you need for a static model is included. If you want to go RC,
then you will be pleased to know that Ark Model can supply the motors,
servos and radios you will need to complete the job. This kit was designed
using CAD/CAM technology to ensure accuracy. |
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| HULL PARTS |
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| The hull is one piece fiberglass construction that will
need very little cleanup. This ship had bow thrusters imbedded hull, and
this is indicated by the a pre marked hole. You will have to drill holes
for the twin propellers and rudders. |
Click images
to enlarge |
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| SUPERSTRUCTURE PARTS |
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| The superstructure is CNC cut ABS sheet plastic. All you have to do
is remove them from the sheet and glue them together. |
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| SMALL PARTS AND DETAIL ITEMS |
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| There are an incredible number of mall parts and fittings in this kit.
I love the way each is individually bagged and labeled for easy identification.
I chose to leave them that way. There are all kinds of parts here, from
CNC machined aluminum and plastic rod, to wire rod, chain, and rope. |
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end superstructure text. |
| PART DETAILS |
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| While I didn't open and photograph each bagged part, I did want to
show off some of the typical ones. On the right are the brass propellers
to drive your ship. Items like the turned pulleys, and ABS rudders and
air tanks are well done. |
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| PHOTO ETCH |
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| Three brass photo etch frets are included. They have the
railings and a multitude of braces. Some of the frets have some relief
etching, but this is mostly to show the fold lines. |
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| DECALS |
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| A decal sheet is included with ships name, draft marks, and logos. |
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| INSTRUCTIONS |
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| For instructions you get two large plan sheets that show
the ship in various views with parts noted. There is also a booklet (not
shown) with Bill of Materials, and more more views. These are OK, but what
is really needed for such an extensive kit is a detailed set of instructions
with 3D subassembly views in a step by step format.
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| LINKS AND RESOURCES |
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| Conclusions: |
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 A
nicely designed and engineered kit. For those of you that like ships that
can actually sail the waters, your ship has just come in.
Right now this kit is available direct from Ark Model. I will add a
list of distributors as soon as it is known. Ark Model has a complete line
of Warships and Civil ships available on their website.
Check them out.
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