Perkins S6M gearbox for possible RAF seaplane tender

Firstly, a couple of apologies.

We are not sure that Fairstar actually is a seaplane tender, although that is how she was described as sold recently

And, I have a commercial reason for making this post, I am looking for something for a client. My business - Primrose Engineering - repairs gearboxes for canal and river boats.

I am trying to find a reverse gear cluster for a Perkins S6M gearbox. The one in Fairstar has collapsed, taking the teeth off the planet gears, meaning no forward or reverse drive. What with worn teeth, collapsed bearings and a split forward cone, it's a bit of a mess

I am trying to find either a reverse gear cluster, or a gearbox at a push. Can anyone help, either with parts or suggestions of where to look?

For your interest, this if Fairstar:









Many thanks,

Richard Powell

Primrose Engineering

Interesting looking little boat, I don't have any knowledge on the tugs but I hope someone will be able to help

Good luck with the project

Does she, without the superstructure, look like this?

www.asrmcs-club.com/boatswebsite/gallery/bm148/

Yes, sort of. The front deck is longer on Fairstar and the transom is vertical. She does seem to be a similar vessel.

Whilst grovelling under the wheelhouse floor (all part of the glamorous life I lead) there are some substantial control shafts under the deck. At first I thought these may have been from a twin engine installation but there's only one set of bearers and provision for a single shaft.

Would these tenders have been used for refuelling?

Richard