The bogies and chassis have been
welded using a mig welder. This uses a 0.8mm wire to
create an arc. Take care to check for weld splatter
and/or mig wire ends as these can be very sharp.
All the laser cut steel components
have been treated with an oil/wax coating to stop it
rusting. This coat should be removed using white spirit
and a solvent, before proceeding with assembly.
A lot of laser cutters use a system of
tagging parts so they stay in the sheet once cut. The
sheet is then lifted off and the parts pushed out. The
result is a small tag on the sedge which can catch or
look unsightly. A quick rub with a file will remove the
tag.
Check that all holes are clear and
components fit together. You may have to drill the 5mm
holes as sometimes they can come up slightly undersized.
When drilling, use a sharp drill bit dipped in oil and if
using a hand drill, start with the drill bit engaged in
the hole.
Check the fit of the spring support
plate and axle box guides and associated bolt holes. Use
a file to ease any components that you have trouble
assembling.
To avoid the frustration of waiting
for paint to dry and delaying assembly it is worth
painting the underside of the chassis at this stage.
Making sure the chassis is grease free, prime the
chassis, spring support plates and axle box guides using
a good primer. Spray paints are readily available from
most car accessory shops. Do not build up too much paint
around the axle boxes as this could affect the operation
of the loco.
