ModelWorks Foden Builders Diary - Machine Tools not Required

ModelWorks ethos is to supply kits that can be assembled with modest equipment. While I have a well equipped workshop with a small lathe and mill most of ModelWorks customers do not. Typical of these constructors are Mike and Steve who have built theirs with limited facilities. While I would not recommend it, it looks like Steve has built his in the lounge.

Steve's Burrell

Mike's Burrell

Potential constructors should not get the impression that parts can simply be taken out of the box and bolted together. To get best result each part need to be "cleaned up " either with a file or flap wheel. Sometimes I find a one off defective component affecting only me or a batch problem affecting all constructors. Where it can't be rectified with simple hand tools Modelworks freely exchange or repair the defective part. Constructors like my self, with workshop facilities, can elect to repair the part themselves. Since ModelWorks arose from the Winson ashes I have witnessed a steady improvement in the quality of parts supplied.

.A certain amount of "fitting" will always be required. Basically this comes down to what I term TLC (Tender Loving Care) in which small adjustment are made to a part until it works in harmony with the others.

While a part in a machine makes a dramatic photograph it is often easier to use simple hand tools. The picture right shows me machining off an unwanted stub from the end of the Burrell front axle. It took me longer to set this up in the mill that it would have taken to saw off the stub and file it true. Constructors who received their kits after the first batch tell me that ModelWorks had corrected this problem.

A dramatic shot but using the mill was way over the top
A dramatic picture but ......
a hacksaw would have been quicker!

Other sections that may be of interest to new visitors to the Foden Diary

Introduction	Recommended Tool Kit	Machine tools not required	About Foden Builder

ModelWorks Foden Builder's Diary

Machine Tools not Required

ModelWorks Foden
Builder's Diary