Steve Jones
Steve Jones Scale Modelling Site
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Then the epoxy putty method isn’t going to work, no. But the one in the video Pete posted isn’t as universal as it may look — it’ll be tricking using it with tracks with end connectors, I think. OTOH, it should work well enough with other types, so if you don’t intend to build Shermans, M60s, Leopards, etc. you’ll probably be fineIts to be universal Jakko. Like the one in Pete's link where you can move it up and down to make sure the length of track is straight and square
What you could do is use strips of the same width as the links between the end connectors, or slightly narrower — but certainly not wider. This way you could clamp links between the metal strips (you wouldn’t need spacers) and slide the end connectors on on both sides. One minor problem would be that you can only assemble pieces of a certain length, that you’ll then have to join outside the jig.Sadly, I've not yet found an easy way to assemble end connector links - I think I have a Stuart somewhere, that I gave up on individual links, to preserve my sanity.
I've made track jigs before, but now I use a simple assembly, which is variable, and generally can be made from bits you have to hand.................View attachment 327653
Two metal strips ( not wood - you will glue the track links to it ) - I had some aluminium - 12mm x 3mm section length immaterial.
With a central guide horn on the links, use a spacer between the clamps, to suit the width - in this case a 2p coin.
View attachment 327654
View attachment 327655
With 2 guide horns sandwich metal strips, so the links straddle the jig.View attachment 327656
I used a steel rule, and some brass strip!
As long as the strips are metal - and straight!, you should be able to accommodate any width.
If the links don't have guide teeth, I simply use one of the metal strips as a straight edge to build against, using another strip to occasionally level the parts.
Sadly, I've not yet found an easy way to assemble end connector links - I think I have a Stuart somewhere, that I gave up on individual links, to preserve my sanity.
Dave
Dave, JR, Jakko, Si and Mike (Whose Pete??) Many thanks for all your replies. There are some terrific ideas here. I have opted for Dave's answer and I have a couple of metal strips coming my way. So once arrived I will set up the jig and see how I get on
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