SUBMARINEMUSEUMS.ORG Forum

Individual Submarine Boards => USS Batfish (SS-310) => Topic started by: Rick on March 26, 2008, 06:11:29 PM

Title: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Rick on March 26, 2008, 06:11:29 PM
I am going to use this as an area to showcase some of the completed work being done at the Batfish.  I will start with a picture taken from the bow of the boat just after the Vocational Tech School got done cleaning weeds from the back fence.  Please keep in mind this is a project still under construction in more ways then one.   The real neat thing is that you can actually see the river now and the area were we want to put nature trails and a viewing area for the 3 rivers merge.  This will be accessable from the Batfish of course. 

Rick
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Rick on March 26, 2008, 06:15:41 PM
Try again
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Mark Sarsfield on March 26, 2008, 08:05:25 PM
Looks like the fence is falling over back there.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Rick on March 26, 2008, 08:10:39 PM
Why yes,,,, Yes it is.....

This is the result of many years of neglect.  I do plan on having the fence repaired.  We cannot do anything wihout first clearing up the weeds first.   
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Mark Sarsfield on March 26, 2008, 08:12:04 PM
Yeah.  Nature really took over in the past 10 years.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Travis McLain on March 26, 2008, 08:30:28 PM
Looks so much better, even though the fence is falling down.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: AVGWarhawk on March 29, 2008, 04:05:41 PM
Does look better then weeds for sure.  Get the fence repaired and weed free, add a picnic table or two....people can make it a day at the park!
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Rick on March 29, 2008, 04:29:01 PM
That is the plan.  We are also planning to add a couple of other things as well.  I cannot say right now as I am swarn to secrecy. 

rick
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Lance Dean on March 29, 2008, 04:58:37 PM
Rick, I'm going to sticky this thread for you.  Keep on rolling with it!
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Rick on March 29, 2008, 05:39:17 PM
good deal.  Hopefully we can get the other boats to start using us as an example. 

now that is a scarey thought,,,   an Okie Redneck as an example for the resto of the world.     :2funny:
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Rick on March 30, 2008, 05:37:29 PM
Good news guys.....
The Escape hatch is open.  Travis and I were able to crack the chain.  It turnes out the veiwing port cover was jammed between the hatch and the rim of the turnk.   It is in a lot better contition then we feared.  The entire trunk is lined in stanless steal and just needs to be wiped down.  We will need to clean all of the mud left over from verious insect nests.  and a small amount of paint will need to be applied.  Pictures will follow shortley.

rick
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Rick on March 30, 2008, 05:53:31 PM
2 Pics of the escape trunk
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: MWALLEN on March 30, 2008, 10:00:21 PM
I'm glad to see it open...and that it has the crank on it.  We had to remove the one from the aft torpedo escape hatch and move it to the hatch coming from the conning tower to the bridge.

Good job guys.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Rick on March 30, 2008, 11:01:06 PM
Travis has already volunteered to work on the clean up.  It already looks good just to have it open.  It will look even better once Travis has finished his project.

Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Tom Bowser on March 31, 2008, 05:37:47 AM
If you can do it without to much trouble I suggest looking behind some of the stainless sheathing for rust. The escape trunks are great condensation makers. We had to remove the cork from the inside of ours to get the rust that had started behind the cork.
Tom
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Mark Sarsfield on March 31, 2008, 09:48:52 AM
That's a good idea, but not sure how feasible it would be.  A lot of plumbing may have to be taken down to remove the sheet metal.

I noticed that some of the doors and hinges have grease fittings.  It's probably a good idea to pack them with some grease, too.

Seeing how the trunk looks better than a lot of other interior rooms, I'm guessing that rust would be minimal.

It would be nice to get the emergency lighting system working in the boat to light up the trunk better, once it's cleaned up.  I think it gets its power through the I.C. switch board, but I'm not sure.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: MWALLEN on April 01, 2008, 03:38:20 PM
Quote
Travis has already volunteered to work on the clean up

GREAT!!  Will be glad to finally meet you Travis this summer.  When you think you're first Saturday will be?  I can only get there every other Saturday so want to make sure that I can get there.  Are you going to make the reunion?
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: chris on April 04, 2008, 07:27:59 PM
WAS THERE A MOVIE SHOT AT THE BATFISH A YEAR AGO OR SO.i THINK IT WAS CALLED THE LAST DIVE OR FINAL DIVE?
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Rick on April 04, 2008, 10:21:00 PM
Yes,  it is called the Last Dive.  It is a short film written and produced by Matt Jenkins.  This film made it to several film festivals including the one here in Muskogee.  It has won a few awards.  It is very good. I have a copy here at the BF.  Matt is trying to get another one going. The script has not been completed yet.  Matt is also putting together the movie night for us in June.

Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Rick on April 05, 2008, 11:14:20 PM
Alright nature fans.  one of the kids got exploring the riverfront property.  It appears that we have a family of beavers living out there.  I have not confirmed this,  but they claim to have found the den and have seen 6-8 beavers out there.  This would explain the unusual tracks that I did see out there when I went exploring one day. 

bird, Armadillos, and beavers.....

OH MY......
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Lance Dean on April 05, 2008, 11:17:32 PM
Ahh beavers!  You might get to float the Batfish after all!

Seriously, get those things trapped and killed/removed quick.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: MWALLEN on April 05, 2008, 11:19:33 PM
Quote
Seriously, get those things trapped and killed/removed quick.

Can we hire them to clear that riverfront of all that dead wood?   ::)
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Rick on April 05, 2008, 11:21:47 PM
I have to admit these guys are out of my league.  I am from Arizona and we just do not have water much less critters that live around water.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Lance Dean on April 05, 2008, 11:37:49 PM
Trapping beavers is a hobby of my dad's.  He hates the things.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Tom Bowser on April 06, 2008, 05:37:10 AM
At least you don't have alligators and water moccasons (snakes).
Tom Bowser
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Rick on April 06, 2008, 07:57:05 AM
cannot say anything about the gators,  put have had to deal with the rattlers.   A good cat usually get them worked out.   
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: MWALLEN on April 06, 2008, 11:33:13 AM
Quote
have had to deal with the rattlers

and wasps.  Pulled a huge nest out from under the 40mm yesterday (killed one of those mean red ones).  I noticed several more nests higher up in the superstructure.

Rick - please get some of that wasp/hornet, kill them from 30 feet, spray cans...in fact, get several of them.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Mark Sarsfield on April 06, 2008, 12:29:04 PM
That Raid Fog stuff that shoots foam up to 30 feet is pretty good stuff. I've killed the huge yellow jackets with that stuff in a few minutes.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Rick on April 06, 2008, 02:15:53 PM
Mark's
I am on the wasps...

Rick
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Travis McLain on April 07, 2008, 06:58:21 PM
Hey Rick, Did you figure out what was wrong with the escape hatch side door yet? Because that was really weird.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Rick on April 07, 2008, 08:31:25 PM
No I did not.  Right now the only thing that I can sugest for an imediate solution is to remove that one dog.  This will get the door closed.  We can replace the dog once it is closed this will double secure the hatch from opening.   At least until we get it fixed....
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Rick on April 10, 2008, 04:35:46 PM
Adrian with the paranormal dudes called me today.  He wants to bring his findings out on Saturday and show me what he found.  He did say that the found somthing interesting, but did not elaborate any further.  I will post on this again when I find out what it was that they found.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Travis McLain on April 10, 2008, 06:38:57 PM
They probably just got a picture of Rod doing something funny. Lol. Rod is a good guy though.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Rick on April 10, 2008, 06:45:27 PM
 :2funny:
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Travis McLain on April 27, 2008, 12:59:42 AM
Anything good happen at the Batfish this weekend?
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Rick on April 27, 2008, 02:29:50 PM
Let's see.  I am dog tired and feel like I just cam off my second back to back patrol.  Chasting C/S workers feeling like a drill instructor.   Moved into my new house and got the water leak fixed.        ;D

On this serious side.  I know I am behind on the scuttlebutt. i am continuing to work on the displays.  I just completed a WWI case witha fine collection including a Navy CPO uniform and an Army uniform.  among other odds and ends of things.   The WWII German display is also complete.  I am working on a jap display now.  In our collection we have Jap Navy uniform 2 helmets and 6 or 7 riffles.  among other items of interest.  I am well on my way to repariring the vandalism dammage.  Still a little more to go.  May begins soom with a Cub Scout camp out on May 3rd.  Fortunately this is my group of kids and I have more control here.   I will see how this goes to see how I can improve this program.   C/S workers continue to be of help.  I am going to limit the days to 1 day a week now.  It is geting to be too much for me to try and maintain the desk top work and keep an eye on these kids.  Again most that I have had are not bad.  Especially when there is only one or 2 to worry about.  Get too many more then that and they become a pack of hudlem.   They did get 4 new picnic tables assembaled and painted though.  We are also getting a Remada set up in the pic nic area. right next to the fire pit.  this will help make events a little more tolerable.   

Hipe this helps out.  I will keep you posted. 
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Travis McLain on April 27, 2008, 04:08:54 PM
Sounds great Rick. I will try to send off that picture for the reunion this week.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Mark Sarsfield on April 28, 2008, 09:57:37 AM
What's a Remada?
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Rick on April 28, 2008, 09:54:12 PM
Keep forgeting I am not in AZ.....

This is an open air awning used for picnics and outings.  Usually accopanied by picnic tables and BBQ's...
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Lance Dean on April 29, 2008, 08:22:06 AM
Never knew they had a name for those!   :P
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Mark Sarsfield on April 29, 2008, 08:58:43 AM
I've always called those picnic shelters, because that is what most parks call them.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Rick on April 29, 2008, 01:25:20 PM
Again,
Remember that I came from AZ.  There is a very stong spanish influince out there. 
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Mark Sarsfield on April 29, 2008, 01:34:39 PM
Hell, that's everywhere, now.  Time to build the fence with minefields.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Rick on May 02, 2008, 04:22:55 PM
Submited for your approval.  This is the ad for the State travel guid.  It is by far better then the old one that ran for a very long time.    I am open to sugestions and coments. 

Rick
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: JohnG on May 02, 2008, 04:55:43 PM
Approved!
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Travis McLain on May 02, 2008, 05:58:32 PM
I approve, but there is one thing I would change, and that would be profile shot of a sub cruising on the surface, like the one below (Which is the Haddock, Dick Fogle's sub)
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: JohnG on May 02, 2008, 06:37:34 PM
If for some reason you do decide to change the pic I have one of the Batfish cruising on the surface in a book. But I like the way it is or if you change it cool.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: MWALLEN on May 02, 2008, 10:18:57 PM
Quote
would be profile shot of a sub cruising on the surface

Travis may have a point...the website has a 3/4 profile (the same as on the new tour book).  We had talked about consistency in our advertising.  Even our volunteer shirts have a 3/4 profile sub.  However, if you are limited on space, then I like the image chosen.

I wouldn't go into a lot of effort as I like what you got.

My $0.02 worth.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Mark Sarsfield on May 05, 2008, 09:52:23 AM
I agree that a sub profile would catch the eye much faster than the current bridge/bow photo.  Most war enthusiasts would spot that in a line-up from a mile away.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Rick on May 06, 2008, 09:22:20 AM
good point.  It is too late at this point.  I have been having a real hard time getting a good pic of the sub profile.  I want to see the one that Vaugh took while he was up on the flag pole.   That may be a good eye catcher.   
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: MWALLEN on May 06, 2008, 10:22:19 AM
Sorry, I'll get that to you tonight...I've been swamped and just haven't gotten to it.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: MWALLEN on May 07, 2008, 08:07:31 AM
Here is the aerial photo from the fire truck bucket...
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Lance Dean on May 07, 2008, 08:18:51 AM
Great shot!  Did you take that?  That's going on the front page.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Mark Sarsfield on May 07, 2008, 09:13:44 AM
Very nice shot. 
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: MWALLEN on May 07, 2008, 11:07:12 AM
Thanks guys...actually Vaughn took it with my camera...he was working on the flag pole and I asked him to take my camera up with him and snap me a few photos.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Rick on May 07, 2008, 11:45:28 AM
Mark A

This is a great shot.  With your permission, I will forward this shot onto the Chamber and try to get it in the travel guide.   This pic makes me wish that it was turned arrounds. ......
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: MWALLEN on May 07, 2008, 02:27:07 PM
Quote
With your permission, I will forward this shot onto the Chamber

Sure, I can email you a higher resolution photo if you'd like...lemme know
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Travis McLain on May 07, 2008, 04:03:36 PM
I was just suggesting we use the profile shot of the Haddock, since it shows a good image of what the fleet boats looked like in WWII.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Rick on May 07, 2008, 04:09:49 PM
I just checked with the agency.  It is too late to change it.  We are going to reserve this photo for a later production...
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Travis McLain on May 07, 2008, 04:14:47 PM
Thats fine, did you use the picture with the lookout on the cigarette deck?
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Rick on May 07, 2008, 05:08:31 PM
yes. as that was the one already sent in....
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Paul Farace on June 02, 2008, 11:50:18 PM
Any plans on painting BATFISH in a standard Measure 32SS camo scheme? That would go a long way to making her look like a mean, lean, killing machine!

BTW: those five Mark 9 depth charges are rather valuable to certain DE and DD managers who may be able to trade some sub goodies for them!  Maybe keep one, as we do, in the collection to show what we used to kill similar enemy subs, or what was dropped near our own subs to indoctrinate the newbies on what to expect on a war patrol... 

-- PF
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Mark Sarsfield on June 03, 2008, 10:50:26 AM
Crapgame: Then make a DEAL!
Big Joe: What kind of deal?
Crapgame: A DEAL, deal! Maybe the guy's a Republican. "Business is business," right?
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Rick on June 03, 2008, 12:21:09 PM
I need $160k to paint the boat.  We are trying to get some one to poney up.  Any suggestions?
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Mark Sarsfield on June 03, 2008, 12:24:26 PM
In addition to the nuke boat bell, maybe this is another good grant writing project for me to tackle.  if Paul, Tom, et. al. point us to the right money bag.. er.. philanthropist, I can tackle the paperwork.  This is pretty staright forward work and shouldn't require tons of verbiage.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Mark Sarsfield on June 03, 2008, 01:31:24 PM
Also, I noticed that some of the machinery below the deck has stainless steel parts and the paint easily flakes off of it, because stainless usually doesn't like paint - I saw someone with a painted Dolorean years ago and it was pealing pretty badly.

I would like to humbly suggest that we mask off the stainless parts after stripping them and leave them as is.  If we're going to spend $160K on a paint job, we may as well go the extra inch.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Lance Dean on June 03, 2008, 01:39:47 PM
I need $160k to paint the boat.  We are trying to get some one to poney up.  Any suggestions?

Is that the estimate for the sandblasting and painting?  No sponsors yet?
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Tom Bowser on June 03, 2008, 06:07:43 PM
I wish I could point you to the money because then I could take a day or two off and quit hanging over the side in this heat. LOL
Tom Bowser
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Paul Farace on June 04, 2008, 12:30:03 AM
Wow $160K ???  That must include sandblasting...

How about another coat of paint over the existing stuff for now... that could be donated or sponsored by some local car dealership for placement of a sign onthe grounds???   Just a thought...   :-\

PF
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Mark Sarsfield on June 04, 2008, 09:34:44 AM
The thought has been brought up and duly shot down by vets and board members.  We still have some political hoops to jump through with the Batfish.  So, you are correct about the price including sandblasting. 

We were taking off a decent amount of paint with a pressure washer, though, and it was one of the less powerful models.  I wonder if the vets would agree to that idea, instead, since the museum doesn't get a water bill - the city pays for it.  My concern about sand blasting is damage to fragile equipment, like the periscope lenses.  Water blasting would be gentle to the glass, but still abusive to old paint.  Plus, the water will dry, but we're sure to have a lot of sand in cracks and crevices for years to come.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Rick on June 04, 2008, 12:46:54 PM
yes, that includes sand blasting and paint.   You will find that I am not one to do a project like this half heartedly.  I have found that if you take short cuts (like painting over an already pealing paint job) you will be doing it again in 2 years.  I would rather spend the extra time and money now and be done with it. 

Big cost now = low maintenace latter

Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Tom Bowser on June 04, 2008, 06:40:34 PM
Good for you Rick.

I have a professional sandblaster and painter coming in intwo weeks with crew and equipment, they are donating two days time which I know won't do the whole boat but will be a big help. The local abrasive supplier just today agreed to donate 9,000 pounds of abrasive which is also a big help. We are finally going to get started.
Tom Bowser
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Paul Farace on June 05, 2008, 01:04:29 AM
Periscope glass is not happy when it gets blasted by sand... but also keep in mind you have lots and lots of brass and brozne deck fittings that must be masked and not blasted, including your capstan drum... PLEASE DONT MAKE THE MISTAKE WE DID IN 1988!!!    Our capstan drum and other delicate fittings were badly scoured by the sandblaster and it was OUR FAULT for not understanding what was going on!

PF :buck2:
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Rick on June 05, 2008, 09:19:52 AM
For the batfish.  this is a big consideration.  We already understand that we will have to resotre some superstructure in the prossess.  I hope to minimize this as much as possible. We are not going touch the pariscopes for several reasons.  we are going to stop at the pariscope housings on the sheers.   Sounds like we need to start makeing a list of brass fittings on the boat that we are or may come acorsse.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Mark Sarsfield on June 05, 2008, 09:20:22 AM
Exactly my point.  It may behoove us to actually scour the Batfish with a high-pressure washer, first, and see what is actually under the paint.  Then, we can mask off the items we don't want them to pulverize.  By the time they show up to sand blast, a lot of the paint will have been removed by the pressure washer, anyway, which would probably reduce our total cost.

Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: JohnG on June 06, 2008, 03:46:46 AM
The thought has been brought up and duly shot down by vets and board members. 

Why would they get in the way of practically free money to get the boat fixed. Like Rick said, Big cost now, low maintenace later.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Mark Sarsfield on June 06, 2008, 09:42:50 AM
They want it done not only the right way, but a specific way.  Sometimes they leave very little room for maneuvering.  I find it more annoying that they have let things go this long with little to no attention, but when someone wants to improve the situation they butt in.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Paul Farace on June 06, 2008, 12:33:34 PM
The single most important skill set in this and any business is not submarine expertise, but the ability to manage, handle, guide, and otherwise deal with boards and individuals... and something very rarely found in our business... its tough, because it rarely has anything to do with logic and what's right.

COD works well because we have a very small board (three active and two hands-off) and we all try to stay on the same page under the direction of the "skipper."
When we had WWII subvets on the advisory board I heard a lot of "excuses" and such that you describe.

Hopefully time with change their thinking.  Just be persistent and stay in for the longhaul.

PF  ???
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: MWALLEN on August 23, 2008, 07:28:31 PM
Notice the 1945 Ham radio antenna right up there in the periscopes.   :'(

Rick....HELP!!!!

Edit: I've removed most the following posts because in hindsight, it was not the right thing to do.  What I meant by posting this was that I wanted to discuss with Rick the possibility of moving the antenna.  I don't have a problem with hams or anyone doing their thing on the boat as long as they do 3 things:  1) remember that the sub is a museum FIRST; 2) pick up after themselves; and 3) don't damage anything.  OK, I'm done with this now and will continue further discussions with Rick offline.  My apologies to anyone I've upset. That wasn't my intention. 
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Darrin on August 30, 2008, 10:06:47 PM
You didn't offend me Mark, you did what you thought was necessary to see what the other boats have going on and I for one have absolutly no problem with the HAM's nor do I have ANY problem with you and the Batfish, you guys are working your butts off just like we have been for a long time.. While our HAM's may not show up but once or twice a year for the museum online deal they did do a lot of work for us origionally and they have cleaned up after themselves and tried to stay out of most of our ways when they are onboard.

Keep up the good work shipmate and don't let anyone get you down ;)

Darrin
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Travis McLain on August 31, 2008, 12:02:48 AM
I was not upset with you either Mark, I totally agree with you that the HAMS should take down the antenna on the periscope shears, and completely off the boat. They also should pick up after themselves, and not damage anything.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: MWALLEN on August 31, 2008, 12:55:15 AM
Thanks guys...no worries.  It's been a weird week in Batfish-land...but Rick has it under control and everything is going to work out fine.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Mark Sarsfield on September 02, 2008, 08:39:12 AM
Sam Whitley, our head radio operator at the Batfish, was offended by our conversations and rightly so.  I spoke out of turn with some of the criticism that I vented and I apologized to him.  It wasn't very Christ-like. 

Sam said that they are working on getting a more period-looking whip antenna at some point and that what is currently up there now is a VHF antenna transmitting at a max power of 10W.  The big HF antenna on the tower is where all of the high-powered long range contacts are transmitted through.  So, no RF worries, after all.

Again, I apologize for stirring the pot.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: JohnG on September 02, 2008, 05:29:54 PM
What kind of radios were used on the boat? If they are in to radios and stuff, why not see if they would fix up a period correct radio and operate it. Gets the boat restored and solves the antenna issue since the new antenna will be period as well.

Just a thought.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Darrin on September 02, 2008, 07:08:26 PM
that process is a LONG and drawn out one at least and we have been working on ours for many years and it finally is running on mostly  mid '60s radio gear and it isn't always what the HAM's have in mind when they show up to run a radio room so part of you is damned if you do and damned if you don't. I have no idea what our HAM's are going to do this year when they see our equipment working on our origional antennaes, some of our gear is still using MORSE code and not just on the mike so it is interesting to hear our radio room work completly. Good luck with the restoration of your Radio Room
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: MWALLEN on September 02, 2008, 08:35:32 PM
Quote
What kind of radios were used on the boat? If they are in to radios and stuff, why not see if they would fix up a period correct radio and operate it. Gets the boat restored and solves the antenna issue since the new antenna will be period as well.

I think Sam has looked at them and has determined that there is no way to get them working.  I'm ignorant of the subject and am electronics-challenged...so I'm just passing along what I heard.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Mark Sarsfield on September 02, 2008, 09:39:22 PM
Nothing is impossible, but it would take a lot of time, money, and effort.  If Silversides could get the 1MC working after being submerged in saltwater, then we could EVENTUALLY get ours working.  I've had vacuum tube HF rigs from the 1960's that still worked with maintenance and coaxing.  The problem is finding someone with all the know how and years of experince to devote that much time to the project.  For the rest of us, it's a steep learning curve.  I'm not looking forward to ripping the 1MC apart and restoring it, but it's a bug in my butt that says it needs to be done.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: MWALLEN on September 02, 2008, 11:45:23 PM
Hey Mark S...

How's that project going?  Last I remember it was on hold and you were going to turn the aft battery (lower compartment) into a work area before proceeding.  Maybe we can look into that this Saturday.

I forgot to call Vaughn so it will have to be tomorrow before I find out.  I just don't know how much time on Saturday I'll have for deck work if Vaughn and Shawn both show up.  Vaughn may or may not need my help, but I want to be available...Shawn is bringing me some Nat'l Archive stuff. 

I'd be happy to help you clean up...or whatever...to the aft battery.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Mark Sarsfield on September 03, 2008, 09:04:04 AM
Cleaning out the aft battery is step one - along with finding a home for that stuff.  We'll need to have Rick involved to direct us, as well as some grunt  labor (i.e. naughty kids doing community service).

Step two is building a workshop down there. 

Once we're satsified with its setup, then I can think about removing Amp A from the 1MC (and getting a hernia) and maybe tinkering with some radio receivers.  Rick has one in the office that he says needs a new cord, but I'd like to do a full diagnostic on it before just plugging it in and forgetting about it - a manual would help. 

I've decided to make Rick's priorities my priorities, for the moment.  So, I'm totally on board with removing the deck, painting, etc. I haven't forgotten about my "science projects", but I think the exterior is more pressing.

Also, Derrick Able and Rick are batting around the idea of putting in a modern sound system under the radio shack.  They want to make it where different sound effects are played into each compartment from a single location, rather than setting up CD players all over the boat.   Plus, giving us P.A. capability, again, without having to set up the laptop.  So, eventually, the original 1MC will be useless other than to turn it on and watch the tubes and lights glow.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: MWALLEN on September 03, 2008, 09:16:59 AM
OK...that is cool.

Quote
Cleaning out the aft battery is step one - along with finding a home for that stuff.

Saturday is suppose to be nice and sunny...but if the weather turns, we can look into starting that.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Rick on September 03, 2008, 11:52:18 AM
For all.

Mark S is correct.  Befor we can do anything wit the after battery we will need to remove all of the stuff.  this also means placing the water tanks into their proper position.  From my initial analisys, 90% of this stuff is junk that needs to be hauled off to scrap.  However, everyone will need to check to make sure.  I do not wnat to remove anything that is important or has any value.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: JohnG on September 03, 2008, 12:53:40 PM
Isn't that the battery room with those huge cylinders? The ones that me, Joseph and you (Rick) nearly killed ourselves trying to lift.  What are we doing with those? The only way I could think to get them out is cut them. Or are those the water tanks? :-[
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Rick on September 03, 2008, 12:59:11 PM
Those are water tanks.  We are not cuttingthem.  and as I recall everyone wimped out. and I did not get my come-a-long together to help move them.
 ;D
Rick
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: JohnG on September 03, 2008, 01:31:42 PM
Ah, I get it. Picking on the indian kids. Thats racism! lol Im just joking. That stuff was pretty heavy, even Josiah had a hard time lifting his end. (All by himself!  :o) It would be a heavy lift but I think two guys on each end could do it.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: MWALLEN on September 03, 2008, 02:41:43 PM
Quote
It would be a heavy lift but I think two guys on each end could do it.

So...you'll be out Saturday to help?  We'll have Rick, me and Mark S. for sure...
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: JohnG on September 03, 2008, 09:52:30 PM
Plan on it. But like everything in my life it comes down to my race schedule. Suzuki threw me a 125 and told me to get going. So pending their schedule I am trying to.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Rick on September 04, 2008, 11:56:11 AM
Ah, I get it. Picking on the indian kids. Thats racism! lol Im just joking. That stuff was pretty heavy, even Josiah had a hard time lifting his end. (All by himself!  :o) It would be a heavy lift but I think two guys on each end could do it.

Negitive.  that would be called racial profiling.....

Remember we live in a kinder and more politically correct society now.......
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Rick on September 04, 2008, 12:01:23 PM
Bradley Wynn says it so much beter then I can.  Please any contact will help out her.   

Rick

So, I know a lot of you are curious about what could be coming down the pike for the Batfish.
 
I can't share a whole lot, as we are still trying to get it all down on paper and it takes time to research and put what you learn into a viable working plan.
 
However, as for the immediate future...
 
We need to raise $100,000 within the next two months to meet Phase One of our proposed Memorial development plan, with a start date of November 11, 2008.  Phase One is the sandblasting, repair, and exterior painting of the Batfish.  This could conceivably take up to six months to complete - IF - the money is in hand first.
 
This goal is very doable but will require everyone talking about it and telling the Batfish story.  If we have enough media outlets pick it up, it could generate some much needed financial support.  I am putting together a press kit that will outline the details and provide all the information needed.  But I need help to get it to EVERYONE.
 
So, any help you can add to the effort is MUCH appreciated.  If you know folks, get me their contact information.  Grease the way and let them know something big is coming their way.
 
As for the rest of the Plan, let's just say for now (until I have more put together for you) try to look at the Memorial in this way:
 
Imagine what it could become.
 
Thanks!
 
Bradley
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Mark Sarsfield on September 04, 2008, 12:08:13 PM
I have a HUGE imagination.  We've already discussed the different "pool" ideas. :)
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: MWALLEN on November 16, 2008, 11:33:11 AM
Quote
We need to raise $100,000 within the next two months to meet Phase One of our proposed Memorial development plan, with a start date of November 11, 2008.  Phase One is the sandblasting, repair, and exterior painting of the Batfish.  This could conceivably take up to six months to complete - IF - the money is in hand first.
 
This goal is very doable but will require everyone talking about it and telling the Batfish story.  If we have enough media outlets pick it up, it could generate some much needed financial support.  I am putting together a press kit that will outline the details and provide all the information needed.  But I need help to get it to EVERYONE.

Where do we stand on this?
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Shipwreck on November 18, 2008, 01:54:56 AM
alas - no real change.  definately not the $100,000 needed.  This is the crux of funding effort.  However, I am finishing up the proposal needed for presentation to the City of Muskogee, now that funding from that source is finally opening up.  How much, I don't know.

That's about it for now.  I was really hoping for better news...

B
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: MWALLEN on April 23, 2009, 02:37:53 PM
Let's adverstise our work day on the 2nd.

Bradley - can you get in touch with media outlets and get us some exposure?

Thanks man.

Mark A.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Rick on January 07, 2011, 01:32:09 PM
Hope everyone has had a good holiday and are already enjoying their new year.   
I want to announce a few events that are comming up at the Batfish.  Some are new and some are events that we have enjoyed in the past.   Pass this info on to everyone you know and come out if you can.

Feb  18-19  Batfish Living History Day
The BlHA will be out again to man the boat.   Come out and emerse yourselves in a history as you are guided through the submarine by WWII Submarine reenactors.   

May 5 St Joes 5k Run
If you like to run and want to help raise some funds for a good cause, this is the event for you.  Call and we can get you signed up.

May 9-15 The USS Batfish Submarine vets come out again to visit.   This is a good time to come and get firts hand accounts of wat it was really like as the Batfish hunted and kill 3 enemy submarines in just over 3 days.

May 21 Armed Forces Day
We will take time to honor those who serve for our freedom.  This event will feature additional displays on the grounds, Living history demonstrations, Stories from the veterans themselves, and end with a concert preformed by Cody James, a well known christian artest and supporter of our armed forces.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Mark Sarsfield on January 28, 2011, 03:30:00 PM
Rick,

  Not sure if Correy has had a chance to talk to you about the Feb. event, yet.  We're going to make this one a little more low-key and cut back on the hype and advertising.  We decided that we need to focus more on the crew this go-around.  Lots of people are still feeling the burn-out from August.  Visitors are welcome to show up and visit (obviously) and we'll talk with them and give the same tour that we always do, but Correy also has more crew-centric plans in mind.  It's starting to feel too much like a job.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Rick on May 14, 2011, 05:48:59 PM
This the newext addition to the Museum.  Thank you SSN 681 guys....
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Lance Dean on May 15, 2011, 12:07:08 AM
Where had that bell been all these years anyway?
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Jim on February 16, 2013, 03:21:51 AM
Anything new on BATFISH?  This thread is 18 months old?
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Mark Sarsfield on February 18, 2013, 11:20:05 AM
Check your email.  We'll keep you busy and you'll get to post all sorts of new stuff on here.   ;)
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Jim on February 18, 2013, 12:19:42 PM
Anything I do will get a guaranteed field report afterwards - with pictures.  I like this board and if nothing else it may help other boats, and they us, with keeping these boats from becoming reefs.  Now I need to figure a way to draw traffic here like there is with the warbirdexchange site.   :P
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Mark Sarsfield on February 18, 2013, 03:20:47 PM
You'll notice that quite a number of boat sub-forums have very few posts and the posts that are on there are very old.  That's because Lance (the web host) tried to get all of these museums involved on this board multiple times, but some of the museums just aren't interested.  In some cases, the boats are run by an over-arching museum organization, like the Carnegie Science Center has the Requin in Pgh, PA.  We're probably too "low brow" for some hoity toity museum director to associate with us.  So, we get ignored. 

As a side story, I visited the Requin one time and I got into an argument with the docent about the boat having a bridge.  He didn't think that subs had bridges and there was no way of talking him out of it.  Obviously, he wasn't a sub vet.  He was just a hired docent "following the party line".  He probably had a memorized script that he was following.  I've met my share of idiot museum directors.  So, I wouldn't be surprised that they had incorrect information written into the boat's tour sheets due to ignorance.  The sub was kind of a side attraction at the museum, anyway.  I sort of felt like the science center really didn't deserve to have her.

Anyway, that's my 2 cents on the subject.  Any museum is welcome at any time to post on here, unless their higher-ups choose not to post on here or they keep their people from posting on here.
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Jim on February 18, 2013, 04:00:42 PM
May be true and Rick is an exception.  The sergeants and the chiefs run the military.  This board has details that they would know and the how-to's to do it.  Tom is an excellent example - don't talk, DO.  There seem to be a few active members on this board from other Boats.  The hands-on guys post, the old hands just argue.  The warbird community is the same.  TOO much politics.  Confederate airforce switched to commemorative airforce and that was the end for me.  i just work on the planes that are local but I may have found a new "toy" with the MWM Park.  We need to tell Rick that on Monday's when the park is closed he has to read all the board info... ;D ;D
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Darrin on February 18, 2013, 06:51:46 PM
Rick used to read this bbs alot as did a lot of other museum boats and a lot participated for a while and then over time the posts got fewer and fewer and finally stopped.

Other museum's like the Torsk have their Volunteers do 95 percent of the work and the volunteers don't own the title to the boat, Baltimore Maritime Museum/Constallation does and the Living Classrooms Foundation has first dibs on the boat and not the volunteers.. Not to mention they have the Aquarium towering over them and it is very political for the Torsk Volunteers and how they can do things and when and why they get to do them.

It takes people willing to learn and ask questions to keep this bbs open and to keep our museum submarines as origional as possible for as long as they possibly can be, sadly we all can't be Paul Farace and have the show piece COD (which is an incredible thing to see)

Darrin
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Jim on February 19, 2013, 04:08:18 AM
it is very political for the Torsk Volunteers and how they can do things and when and why they get to do them.

This is a shame.  Who do you have to ask to do work on the boat?  Is it easier to use the permission/forgiveness rules?
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Rick on February 26, 2013, 01:57:38 PM
I appologize for failure to post in the past.  For me personally, I am raising 3 kids on my own, one just went into the military (another list of things to due) am remodeling a house, and going to school.  Needless to say I have been a little busy. ;D  For Jim.  I have worked hard to take the politics out of it for the volunteers.  This museum cannot function with out you.   I am the political leason and that is, in part, why I ask that everyone coordinates through me before anything get moving.  The board, city, among many other people would not be happy with several contractors knocking on their door asking for large sums of money.  I am thankfull for you taking an interest as we have not had that for about a year now.  Keep in touch, and lets see how much closer we can get to making this thing something to respect.

Rick
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Jim on February 26, 2013, 03:50:52 PM
IT'S SOMETHING TO RESPECT ALREADY. Now let's make it shine!  What monies do other boats get from the vets/navy/state/fed for help?  They need WAY more than we do just for dry docking work.  If we could get the money they use for 1 dry dock, we could finish 85% of the wish list.  I mean ALL of the wish list.   ;)
Title: Re: new things at the Batfish...
Post by: Darrin on April 26, 2014, 07:45:53 PM
(((PING))) Is there anyone at the Helm or has the crew just walked off and given up on posting on here?