I really enjoy building 1/72 scale armor – at least after the suspension is complete. To help get over this hurdle without losing even more of my rapidly diminishing hair, I created a tool that makes aligning running-gear components quick and easy. I purchased a pair of inexpensive, adjustable combination squares at a local home center. (I chose the type with metal rules and polycarbonate heads.) I removed and reversed the head from one square and mounted it on the rule of the other. This created a jig that ensured two parallel bars at 90 degrees to the base line. Adjusting the space between the heads to the width of the vehicle, I can clamp the suspension parts squarely in place while the cement dries. I’ve even found I can temporarily glue larger or oddly-shaped plates to the heads to accommodate special requirements. (Be careful to use a smooth, even layer of adhesive to maintain the alignment of the mating surfaces.) This modification allows adaptation of the fixture to other applications and scales.
Tip submitted by:
Paul TrimbleSouth Bend, Indiana