Post by crockett on Nov 13, 2005 11:24:47 GMT -5
When I tried my very first set of Fruilmodellisimo metal track, going by the instructions and using the wire that is included with the set, I ended up with sore fingers and a solemn oath that I would find a better way. Here is what I came up with:
1. Get a good pair of side cutters, and go to the sewing section of Wal Mart and get a box of straight pins, (get the smallest diameter):
2. Simply begin by joining a few blocks, pressing the straight pin in by hand, no big muscles required, and no drilling. The sharp end of the pin will press into the soft metal link with very little pressure:
3. Now you may build a little jig with a router bit as shown, or just assemble on a flat surface. After about 10 links, bring the side cutters down the line and trim off the pin head(s). At this point, you may wish to secure with a drop of CA:
Finally: You can assemble an entire side, 80 to 90 blocks, in about 20 to 25 minutes. Be advised that if you are building smaller vehicle track, like a SdFz. 251, drilling the links will be required before pinning.
Have fun and good luck!
Steve Crockett
1. Get a good pair of side cutters, and go to the sewing section of Wal Mart and get a box of straight pins, (get the smallest diameter):
2. Simply begin by joining a few blocks, pressing the straight pin in by hand, no big muscles required, and no drilling. The sharp end of the pin will press into the soft metal link with very little pressure:
3. Now you may build a little jig with a router bit as shown, or just assemble on a flat surface. After about 10 links, bring the side cutters down the line and trim off the pin head(s). At this point, you may wish to secure with a drop of CA:
Finally: You can assemble an entire side, 80 to 90 blocks, in about 20 to 25 minutes. Be advised that if you are building smaller vehicle track, like a SdFz. 251, drilling the links will be required before pinning.
Have fun and good luck!
Steve Crockett
