Vac-U-Fletcher
™
1:144 Scale Model RC Fletcher Class Destroyer Hull Kit
Manufactured by Vac-U-Boat 1259 Humphries Rd. Conyers, GA 30012 philpace@vac-u-boat.com
This Vac-U-Fletcher Hull Kit Features:
Tough high-impact polystyrene hull, a scale deck
with realistic details including five 5-inch cannons with brass barrels, stacks with searchlight
platform, two torpedo launchers and the bridge with gun director overhead. The rudder kit
includes a rudder cast on a brass shaft with a self-aligning rudder bracket, rudder arm, stainless
steel pushrod, and e-z connector with stainless screw. The single drive kit includes a “365” motor
direct-driving the precision 1/8-inch stainless steel shaft supported by Oilite
®
bushings in the brass
stern tube with a brass coupling, injection-molded copper colored 1-inch polyethylene prop, 6-32
threaded drive dog, prop nut, six magnets to attach the 2nd deck and a motor mount that also holds
the included mini servo for the rudder. Once assembled, the hull is sealed up to the top of the deck
house. Although not necessary for most water conditions, the upper deckhouse openings can be
taped over with a strip of clear packing tape to completely waterproof the hull. Screws for the
motor, rudder pushrod & servo are accessible from openings in the top of the deck house for any
repair or maintenance. A more expensive twin counter-rotating drive kit is available to make the
model’s drive the same as the real ship but isn’t necessary as both single and twin drive setups will
drive and maneuver the ship at faster-than-scale speeds.
If you are looking for a museum-quality scale Fletcher-Class destroyer with hundreds of parts
and fine detail, DO NOT BUY THIS MODEL! This is a vacuum-formed plastic kit which
includes only the larger details of the real ship with adjustments made so the shape is compatible
with vacuum-forming equipment. Once assembled & painted and you have added your radio gear,
battery, electronic speed control, ballast weights & wiring connectors, it will run and look great in
the water. If you need additional details, they can be scratch built or 3D printed.
The boat can be painted with plastic-compatible hobby spray paints. Use ONLY plastic-safe
paints like Hobby Enamels, Krylon
Fusion
or Rustoleum American Accents 2X Ultra Cover
paints are the best. Sprayed or brushed acrylics work well too.
Please read the following information, warnings, tips and tricks before building this model.
Use caution with glue, the plastic bags, and small parts if children are around. Read the labels of
all adhesives, paints, and electronics purchased for this hull. Use extreme care with hobby knives
when cutting plastic.
Remember to turn on the transmitter first, then the boat’s receiver. Teach your child to turn off
the boat before lifting it out of the water. Even a plastic prop can be hazardous to their little
fingers.
Enjoy your Vac-U-Fletcher. If you have any questions, you can contact me at philpace@vac-u-
boat.com.
© 2018 Philip Pace dba Vac-U-Boat™
