RE: Black Magic VF3 Build Thread
The method I am using for the VF3 is the fixture style jig. Which can be made for less the $20 in materials. It takes about the same amount of time to assemble the jig as it does to assemble Pete's jig. But you need a table saw and maybe a table router to make the stations.
As with anything there are a number of pros and cons regarding the fixture style jig.
First the cons:
1. The jig is purpose built and will only work on one fuse design.
2. You need a table saw to make the stations.
3. it's a lot of work if your only building one or two fuses.
The advantages:
1. Once the jig is built there is no jig adjustment and alignment time - (which could be almost an hour of time to adjust all 20 station arms and to make sure your datum and right thrust is correct.)
2. You are building right on top of a hard datum line.
3. Your thrust angle is built into the jig.
4. If your building more than one fuse, you are assured that you will have perfectly matched fuse crutches.
5. You can easily align wing and stab tubes in the jig.
6. Once your fuse has cured it easly slides straight out of the jig and your ready to build your #2 fuse in about a New York minute.