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The lifeboat for the
TZU HANG was built first as a test of the methods used to warp the planks.
They were first soaked in an ammonia-water solution then ironed under heat
to approximate shape. These planks have a more severe twist than that
found on the mother ship.
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The keel was built flat
against a template. Here, the bulkheads were fastened to the building board
and planking is well under way. Notice the rabbiting along the keel.
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The deck work has been partially
framed and the cockpit installed.
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Here the sheeting winch and
tiller servo have been installed on opposite sides of the receiver and receiver
batteries.
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The solid state motor control
can be seen on a platform above the motor which in turn is mounted just
above the keel.
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The motor hatch now covers the
motor and the motor batteries are in place. Notice the sheeting cable
running through the bulkheads above.
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An overall view of the hull
after the cast lead keel and rudder have been added almost doubling the
total weight of the craft.
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Close up of the tiller control
and the sheeting cable at the stern.
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View of the sheeting cable at
the bow and the tension spring that keeps the cable taught
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Another view of hull with
removable masts and cabin in place.
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The TZU HANG is ready for
decking.
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A bit of paint and rigging and
we are ready for the maiden voyage.
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Sailboat slowly backing out
under motor power.
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Motor off, sheeting in and under
sail.
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Tacking can be a real bear in a
small clumsy ship like this.
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Getting up to surprising speed,
but will it ever return?
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That tiny little dot at
the very center is the TZU HANG sailing off in the distance.
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And yes, it DID come
back.
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