Brown Water Enterprises

Step 1: Deckhouse Modifications

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To begin the "backdate" modifications I removed the antenna mounts that were cast into the forward edge of the deckhouse with a sharp eXacto knife.

Next I drilled two small holes in the deckhouse using a 1/8" bit to accommodate the recessed Program 4 running lights.

The running lights were constructed from styrene rod and strips. The lighter was used to melt the end of the styrene rod to make it round by holding it near the flame. *WARNING, lighters can burn if you are not extremely careful. Assistance from an adult is mandatory for this tip*

The completed running lights.

Next I wanted to correct the vision ports surrounding the helm. I used styrene sheet, rod and strip to accomplish this task.

Then I modified the antennas by scratch building external mounts and positioning them on the front of the deckhouse.

During the casting process some parts, particularly the canopies, have flattened out to some degree. To regain the correct curved shape dip the part in boiling water for a couple of seconds and quickly remove. Then slightly bend to the desired shape before the part quickly cools. *WARNING, boiling water can burn. Assistance from an adult is mandatory for this tip*

Canopies with the correct "bend" following the method explained above. Notice the scratch built rope hook attached to the side of the deckhouse.

The nearly completed deckhouse with small cables added to the antennas and a new radar dome added from on old Tamiya PBR kit. The kit provided radar mast is cast in the lowered position. I decided to raise the mast by replacing it with styrene rod.

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