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Lew's Model Boats - Fireboat
Updated:
May 1, 2026
Dusseldorf 2 1/25 scale r/c model (home)
About
This model is a 1/25 scale model built from the Krick kit "Dusseldorf 2" by previous builder. The boat was given to Lew as he would give it care and complete it as well as enjoy it. This all took place in mid-January 2022. (The above below is that of the real Dusseldorf 2.)
As the boat was incomplete and not completely working because the radio did not have enough channels plus some error and detail problems it would need a lot of work to get it in order. (The boat should have at least a 14 channel radio, and even better would be 16-18 channels for full functionality.) The Spektrum DX8 radio that came with the boat only has 8 channels and can not be expanded.) Probably the original owner did know the requirements to building a model boat this complicated (electronics wise) that is to be radio controlled.
Lew did some historical research on the model, namely what does the real "Dusseldorf 2" look like and how does the model compare to it? Unfortunately the model only bears some resemblance to the current real boat but research showed that with major modifications (more below) would be needed so it could be made into a reasonable replica.
This site will show the steps and progress made to convert the partially completed model into the 1/25 scale replica. Lew will try to add enough pertinent information so other owners of the "Dusseldorf 2" can modify their models as well - if they please.
Lew is not going into any detail of the kit's quality (which is very good) nor any instructions on how to build it. There is plenty of information and photos online that accomplishes that. His purpose here is to upgrade to a more authentic looking model.
As the boat was incomplete and not completely working because the radio did not have enough channels plus some error and detail problems it would need a lot of work to get it in order. (The boat should have at least a 14 channel radio, and even better would be 16-18 channels for full functionality.) The Spektrum DX8 radio that came with the boat only has 8 channels and can not be expanded.) Probably the original owner did know the requirements to building a model boat this complicated (electronics wise) that is to be radio controlled.
Lew did some historical research on the model, namely what does the real "Dusseldorf 2" look like and how does the model compare to it? Unfortunately the model only bears some resemblance to the current real boat but research showed that with major modifications (more below) would be needed so it could be made into a reasonable replica.
This site will show the steps and progress made to convert the partially completed model into the 1/25 scale replica. Lew will try to add enough pertinent information so other owners of the "Dusseldorf 2" can modify their models as well - if they please.
Lew is not going into any detail of the kit's quality (which is very good) nor any instructions on how to build it. There is plenty of information and photos online that accomplishes that. His purpose here is to upgrade to a more authentic looking model.
Links to Selective Pages for this Model
6. Hull Modification *
7. Finished Photos *
* No links yet (under construction)
Real photos that can be handy in detailing the model.
the history of the real Dusseldorf FLB 2 fire boat.
Drawings and downloads to help you modify your own fire boat.
Build a new superstructure as the kit's part would have to be modified extensively.
How was this model developed? On hold with other model builds in progress.
Lengthening the hull, and some other changes deviating from the kit's instructions
Photos of the completed model.
Interesting Videos
Here are some interesting videos pertaining to the Dusseldorf fire boat:
Fireboat 2 in the Düsseldorf harbor "Water from cannons" 2002 12 minutes. 2002. (German language)
Fire ship 2 Dusseldorf Boat moving - drive by - 1 minute.
FLB 2 BF Koln Mole moving at ight time video showing the lights. 2015. 1 minute.
Fireboat II Dusseldorf boat moving and turning, zoomed in for detail.
Fire brigade fire-fighting boat thick cloud of soot in Düsseldorf Slow moving, good views. 7 minutes.
FLB Düsseldorf long (by QYBATO, lengthened version RC model of the Dusseldorf in the water. Incomplete, 3 minutes.