Tuesday, December 27, 2011

Gluing FDS and MIDS frames

    The FDS and MIDS frame sections are shown being bonded together with CA.  Interlocking features are located on both portions.  Prior to gluing, cleaning and dimension checks were accomplished.  The bonding was done on a flat glass desktop with rubber bands employed to apply pressure to the assembly holding it in place while the glue cures.
    An extra chassis spacer was located between the crossed rubber bands to assure that the frame was square through the bond region with proper spacing.  No cross frame is located in this area of the prototype per the plan.  The Front driver brake hanger is just forward of the joint region providing good vertical support while the spare cross frame provides good horizontal support.  The hand file provides weight to hold the frame down on the flat glass to keep it in alignment.
    Frame painting will wait until all the chassis frame is assembled later.  The next step will be to complete build of the front driver-axle-bearing assembly and the set of pedestal binders.  Hole drilling and tapping will also be done to provide a means of retaining the wheel sets and removal for further work as needed.

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