RC Catamaran V5
About the Project
This is the fifth and final version of my RC catamaran. This time I put more thought into assembly so each section has tabs that slot into the next making alignment super easy for gluing. On my own build I used body filler to smooth out seams and imperfections before painting. Watch the YouTube video to see that process.
With my motor, ESC and prop setup, I managed to reach 86 km/h on a single 4S LiPo.
Which STL files to use
"Hull parts" folder: Some of these (Stern, Middle Back & Transom) include mounting holes specifically for the parts in the parts list. Use these if you're running the same motor and rudder setup as me.
"No holes" folder: use these alternates if you want to glue in your own motor mount or set things up differently.
Assembled size
- Length (excluding rudder) - 660mm
- Width (hull) - 260mm
- Height (including lid) - 120mm
More notes
- The G-code files are sliced for an Ender 3 V3 SE.
- I recommend starting with the CAT-V5 Slicer 3MF file.
- The lid seal is optional. I printed mine in TPU.
Files and Links
Parts List
Below are the parts I used for my own build. Many are optional and almost all are interchangeable. If you want to use a different motor or rudder etc I included alternative hull files without built in holes so you can drill your own instead.
My Setup
- 3670 2280KV 36S Brushless Motor
- 120A Water-cooled ESC for brushless motor
- 75mm Rudder with water pickup
- Flex shaft 4mm x 250mm (Direction to match your propeller)
- Brass + stuffing tube for shaft 4mm x 250mm
- Strut/bracket for 4mm shaft
- 5mm to 4mm Flexible shaft coupler
- Pickup for separate cooling (optional)
- Propeller 36mm x 4mm
- 3-6S LiPo battery (I'm using a 4S SMC 4400mAh 80C)
General Parts
- Servo motor DS-S007M
- Push rod + bellows for rudder
- RC controller and receiver
- Silicone tubes for water cooling 3mm ID x 5mm OD
- Decal stickers
Hardware Store
- Epoxy resin (glue for hull sections)
- Automotive body filler
- Spray paint cans + primer can
- M3 bolts (20x)
- M4 bolts & threaded inserts (6x)
Some of these are AliExpress affiliate links.
Photo Gallery
Lakeside
Painted and ready
Painted and ready
Lakeside
Running in water!
Painted and ready
Painted and ready
Stern
Primed for paint