3D Printed RAF Crash Tender 35"

By Plivez 12 entries 7 Jun 2026 — 9 Jul 2026
97Likes
23Comments
Chapter 01 / 12

12 chapters · Page 1 of 2

Plivez Opening post 182

3D Printed RAF Crash Tender 35"

Hello everyone,
I thought I would introduce myself and share my project.
I am currently building a 3D printed RAF Crash Tender.
I have used an original model obtained on Facebook marketplace as a reference along with original model plans and studying the great work on here by https://model-boats.com/user/EdH and https://model-boats.com/user/robbob
With those I have drawn up the plans on Fusion 360 and exported to BambuLabs for my printer which is the H2S
The model is approximately 35 inches long and will be powered by a brushless motor on a single shaft. I am currently working through the construction, finishing and painting stages, and will post updates as the build progresses.
I am looking forward to sharing the build with you all and would welcome any advice, comments or information from members who have built RAF Crash Tenders or similar fast launches.

Many thanks,
Liked by Ray and jonb and
Plivez #2 of 12 180

Few more CAD detail images.

I love the process, the software is amazing. Although it does feel a bit like cheating compared with the traditional methods.
Liked by hermank and robbob and
Plivez #4 of 12 124

Hot off the printer.

Hull now printed in three sections. Printed in PETG filament on my Bambulabs H2S
Quality of print is superb. Now for priming and sanding.......
Liked by Ray and jonb and
Plivez #5 of 12 117

Filling, sanding and painting then repainting...

Bondo and primed ready for paint.
Then stupidly got carried away and completely painted the wrong waterline. Not sure what I was thinking. Anyway soon rectified..
Liked by Ray and jonb and
Plivez #6 of 12 104

Waterline

The most difficult part of the process thus far. Getting the waterline tape to nicely pass over the hard chine. Happy with it eventually. Once clear coated I will paint some extra clear epoxy over the vulnerable edges (bow, chine, stern). Printed the wheelhouse cabin and cabin top. Sanding to get perfectly smooth finish.
Liked by chugalone100 and robbob and
Plivez #7 of 12 104

Motor Mounted

Motor mount designed in three parts. Hull shaped base to provide a flat surface into which to screw changeable mount. Then sides and main mount face. All seems to line up very well and run smooth.
Liked by Ray and jbkiwi and
Plivez #8 of 12 104

Decals

All cut from vinyl using the my same 3D printer, such a versatile machine. Starting to look the part!
Liked by Ray and chugalone100 and

A detail that seems to be missing from all the builds I've seen?

I noticed this small detail in the B&W photo of the Crash Tender. Unfortunately I've already printed and started painting the wheelhouse so probably wont be adding it.
Liked by Ray and EdW and

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