Friul assembly jig

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August 13, 2020
This is a "cuff style" which holds the tracks to be pinned with the guide horns facing up
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August 13, 2020
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August 13, 2020
This one holds the tracks with the guide horns down; Tiger II in this example. Slide them in and snug them up
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August 13, 2020
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August 13, 2020
Make sure you use Extra-fine, most sewing pins (without the glass head especially) are too fat. The pins are sturdy enough so you don't have to drill out every single @#%@#^ track link, just push through.
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August 13, 2020
I put my pins into a block of beeswax which ensures a smooth pinning.
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August 13, 2020
This is an example of some Tiger I tracks that are pinned and painted, I put them in the cuff just so you would see how it works. *DO NOT PAINT FIRST, it makes it way too gummy and clogs up the holes on the links. The side you cut off the pins will be inside/under the tank except at the front and rear. Just trim these a little closer.
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August 13, 2020
WARNING!!!! When you trim the pins they fly off like projectiles and will put your eye out. Wear goggles, trim into a large bag and have a magnet handy to catch the ones that bounce out anyway..
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August 13, 2020
Yes, I am wearing safety goggles; we have two eyes but one is not a spare.

Comments

3 13 August 2020, 13:25

Spanjaard
i need to remember this idea when i get into some Friuls that i have waiting in my stash....

25 August 2020, 14:31

Al
It works so much better than the old way of cutting individual pins but PLEASE be careful when you trim the sewing pins, they are hardened and will fly off like projectiles
Also please don't use your hobby cutters, use wire cutters, you will break your hobby cutters. Otherwise it's so easy and quick.

26 August 2020, 12:00

Spanjaard
👍

26 August 2020, 17:49

Album info

This is my technique for assembling Friul tracks which I love. The down side to the kit is the wire for the pins; I have been using glass head extra fine sewing pins instead and it works much faster.

I build a jig which often fits many different types of tracks. The jig is made out of scrap styrene although I have a wide variety of styrene strips so I can build this very snug.

The jig helps hold the tracks firm because the pins take a little push; do not push too hard or they will go right out the other side. If that happens, back it up a little.

Maus

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