HMCSS Victoria 1855 by BANYAN - 1:72

[wefalck]

Pat, think a jig like this will work.

 

On the other hand, I wonder whether a simple (but dimensionally precise) mock-up of the mast-head wouldn't be sufficient. The cheeks could be held temporarily in place with pins driven through the holes. This would then ensure a tight fit to the mast-head.

[Glen McGuire]

I agree with Wefalck.  Well done on the jig, Pat.  That is so much better than what I usually do which is use small strips of duct tape to hold down the pieces I'm soldering.  Here's how neanderthals in Texas do it!

[Jim Lad]

Some clever soldering solutions going on here. The original builder of the 'Herzogin Cecilie' that I'm working on at the museum had an idea - he made the lower masts of brass, so all the subsequent brass parts are simply soldered on.

 

John

[BANYAN]

Thanks @wefalck, @Glen McGuire and @Jim Lad, appreciate the feed back.  Eberhard, I did have the same idea but using the actual mast.  That is pin and glue the cheeks in place first, but with the very small items I was concerned about keeping the tops of the trestletrees parallel and exactly aligned.  This jig at least keeps one of these variables (spacing) under control, and with a bit of care should be able to control the parallel aspect.  The central spacer is exactly the width of the masthead BUT, there is a tiny bit of 'slop' in the hound/cheek slots, so I may have to seriously reconsider your idea. 

 

Glen one of the three key 'bodging' tools - duct tape, 16 gauge fencing wire and a big hammer.   I may have to resort to duct tape if all else fails  - then again I could get those pesky penguins to hold it in place if Keith will spare a couple - yeah I know 🤐

 

John, if I hadn't already made the masts that could have been an serious option to consider; thanks for the idea.

 

cheers

 

Pat

 

Edited June 24, 2024 by BANYAN