Well worth the effort to update a decent size pond yacht. Some sailed remarkably well and even without fitting steering devices could be trimmed to sail a pretty true course. I wish I still had the one I was given for about my third Christmas.

I took some photos for you yesterday.

It sails well

One of the guys in our group has successfully made an old pond boat into rc by putting a small cabin on deck housing a receiver and battery with a rudder servo. Sails are still manual but with a mid setting she sails well in most conditions.

Cloth sails can be improved without changing them by putting on a clear proofing.

I use thompsons water seal which is totally clear and blocks the holes in the cloth so wind can't go through.

Tent waterproofer has the same effect and you can get a spray can of it from most tent outlets. This gives a much improved catchment to the sail area.

Are these cloth sails alright to use?

Well worth trying to rc it.
You could use a drop keel type of removable keel.
Keep us updated on your ideas and progress.
Cheers Colin.

I could see that. Was thinking of a removable keel with bulb. Possibly adding a deeper rudder too.

Size? It looks as if the stern seat by the transom is an enclosed space? If so, a modern micro radio would fit - though you may need to use button cells or a phone LiPo.

For tiller control, consider closed loop like this. The test rig displayed is about 5" long...

http://eezebilt.tk/IMG_3145.jpg