Tools for Builders
 

I have some secret weapons in my arsenal of building tools. They were made back in the 70's and I know of no source for similar tools. If someone does, please speak up.

I have added a [link=http://www.houseofpylon.com/Tools/Tools.aspx]Tools for Builders[/link] section on my web site and I may offer custom tools as well as tools that are hard to find or just a pain to find and buy.

The first tool is a wire bender. It has two ends. One pin is 3/16" and yields a 3/32" radius bend. The other end is 1/4" and yields a 1/8" radius bend. The advantage of this tool is that you don't get distorted wire from trying to bend in a vise. And it is very easy to bend and re-bend to get just the right angle without having to clamp and reclamp. I definitely think I am going to get these made.

RE: Tools for Builders
 

Don, I have the exact same piece and there were two other pieces in the set. The second one was for bending coils and the third piece was for cutting wire. Mine was set up to cut 5/32" wire. I can post pictures if it will help and or send the pieces to you if you are going to have some made.

RE: Tools for Builders
 

The other tool is a shearing wire cutter. It will cut wire up to 5/32" in diameter. It uses a big allen screw that drives a lever that has hardened steel bushings on each side.

It will cut piano wire very easily and it doesn't shoot it across the room.

I know you can use a cut-off tool, but this is quickier, much cleaner, and safer.

RE: Tools for Builders
 

Barry,

You must have bought the same set as my Dad in the 70's. :)

Yes, the other end of the wire bender is set up for coils. What I was going to do was dispense with the coil maker and just have one end for 3/16" and one end for 1/4" to get rid of that little bushing you have to use on the 3/16" pin. Let me know what you think.

Do you think these are tools that today's modelers need?

RE: Tools for Builders
 

Yep, in the 70's. If a modeler is going to bend their own landing gear, this set is indispensable. I would pony up the, best guess, $75 for the set. Maybe more. That is getting steep for a tool and these were not elcheapo's back in the 70's. With the ARF/ARC industries being as robust as they are people are building less. But, on the other side of the coin once I introduce someone to building and they learn the basics they are hooked and get a lot of enjoyment building. Racers are a different crowd and spend more money on their habit that the average modeler and want things done right the first time. I don't think it will ever be a high volume item but I think you will sell some.

RE: Tools for Builders
 

one thing I still haven't been able to find is a good brass tube bender for 1/8th fuel line, Everyone I have either breaks or pinches the tubing

RE: Tools for Builders
 

Hey redfox. The brass tubing is easy to do with no tools. I believe most every does this... heat the tubing up with a torch bend to your liking cool off install it.

RE: Tools for Builders
 

Have you tried the [link=http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXE228&P=7]Dubro Tubing Bender 1/8"[/link] ?

I use it all the time on 1/8" brass tubing with no problems. Don't try it with the metric aluminum that is close to 1/8" though. Just a slow steady bend gets the job done.

RE: Tools for Builders
 

Another great tool that people don't think about using for another purpose is the [link=http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXK378&P=M]Great Planes Dead Center Hole Locator [/link]. This is the absolute best way to drill servo mounting holes.

RE: Tools for Builders
 

I have the do bro bender and it pinches them shut. I also do the heating thing with some success, problem with heating is it weakens the tubing if you over heat it just a hair to much but it probably my dumb thumbs[8D]

RE: Tools for Builders
 

I checked it out and sure enough, it does pinch the tubing if you go past about 60 degrees. I am usually only bending 45 degrees for tank vents.

I think it is the radius of the roller. Maybe I have a new tool to get made. ;)

RE: Tools for Builders
 

yep, I got it for my quickies and vipers. I need a 90 degree bend to get out the side of the fuse

RE: Tools for Builders
 

The only tubing bender that works:

http://www.harryhigley.com/24TubingB...structions.htm

RE: Tools for Builders
 

Thanks Scott.

That item is available from Tower ... See [link=http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXL781&P=7]Harry Higley's Biso Bender 1/8" & 3/32"[/link]

They carry two other tools (not for building) that I have and use from time to time. They can save engine heads.

[link=http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXL776&P=7]Harry Higley's Glow Plug Die[/link]

[link=http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXL774&P=7]Harry Higley's Glow Plug Tap 1/4-32[/link]

RE: Tools for Builders
 

on my next shipment :D

RE: Tools for Builders
 

This is a tool for a tool. It was designed by Jim Katz. It is a holder for the Great Planes Slot Machine.

The whole purpose of the tool is to be able to slot balsa with centered and straight hinge slots. Anyone who has used the Slot machine by hand knows that while it is a good tool, it is tricky to use.

This holder is made of plywood. I'm thinking of getting them laser cut and selling them either as kits or pre-built. The cost should be quite reasonable.

I have CAD drawings and may just post the drawings for people that want to make their own. If you do, just let me know.

RE: Tools for Builders
 

How ever you do it I will take one. Thanks, Don.

RE: Tools for Builders
 

Barry,

I'll work up a price and let you know. It won't be too high.

RE: Tools for Builders
 

Are you cutting fiberglass cloth with scissors? Cutting 3/4 ounce cloth is a pain. But there is an easy way.

It's called a [link=http://www.houseofpylon.com/Tools/RotaryKnife.aspx]Rotary Knife[/link]. Using one of these to cut cloth makes it so much easier. You need a cutting pad. But you can cut on masonite, or even cardboard.

I use these all the time. For cutting glass for wing center sections, for parts to lay-up.

They even work well for cutting plastic coverings.

RE: Tools for Builders
 

My wife has those for her crafts. HHmmmm expensive!! maybe she won't miss one! Hehehe.

RE: Tools for Builders
 

Yes, the Fiskars and Olfa are $10 to $15 ... Mine are only $4 but the blades are not changable. But a person can figure out if they like them with mine. And mine last quite a while.

RE: Tools for Builders
 

Heck at $4 who needs changable. Are they for sale at that price?? If so I want some.

RE: Tools for Builders
 

Yes. $4 is my price for them. And I have plenty.

RE: Tools for Builders
 

Don- can you add three rotary cutters and five of the torque rod to my order? At that price I can have one at each repair facility! Thx, Randy

RE: Tools for Builders
 

Do it on anything but the wifes Mahagony dinner table!!!:D

Been using one for years.... great stuff.