I built my first (Aerokits) fire boat straight from the kit In 1962 and still have It today, originally powered by an ED Sea Otter 3.46 Diesel but now converted to electric propulsion which does at least give an astern option using modern Tx's.

When these craft were originally produced one simply used the materials that came In the kit, unfortunately the quality of plywood provided, although Initially ok, does not stand the test of time, Ie: 49 years on, original boats built with original kit materials show their age through de-lamination of some of the ply parts (including mine).

This Is because the ply used was 'interior quality' (the cheapest) laminated with adhesives that were not Intended to be subjected to water. Most plywoods found In model shops are of this type.

Having obtained an additional 34" boat (saved from the skip) this too showed signs of de-laminating ply and had to be re-built from deck level upwards.

The better way to do this Is to use WBP plywood (manufactured using water & boil proof adhesives), the sizes we use, commonly 2mm, 3mm, can be obtained from full size suppliers of boat-building materials or suppliers of aeronautical plywood :- Use 'Google Search' on the Web and several will be found.
I for one didn't even consider my original build lasting 49 years, Or this far on, being worth a considerable sum -BUT IT IS!
An original 34" fire boat was recently sold on e-bay for ÂA£1000 !!!

I'll now begin my new 46" job as the Kingston Mouldings fibreglass hull arrived today...