Ok-Being the arm chair model railroader that I am, and being inspired by many of the members here, I am getting ready to do my first diesel detailing. I have one question, what do you use to make the small holes for all those parts. I have heard power drills, punches, and these... http://cgi.ebay.com/Tiny-Small-20-b...310QQihZ016QQcategoryZ486QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem What is your recomendation? Brad
I have fairly well all the same bits and very similar pin vise. 90% of my drilling is done by hand. These are a must have IMO.
...don't use a power tool for #80 holes - you will melt a hole instead to drill one. Gary mentioned it, drill the holes by hand with a pin vise. buy one set with all the different drills (like the one on eBAy) and buy another 20 pcs of #80 drills separately
I think I am about to need a replacement for my battery operated, two-speed Dremel, which is very old. Some type of powered, hand-held tool like this is very good for detailing. I think a variable speed type is a must.
Brad: A pin vise is definately the way to go. Another thing to consider is magnification. I have a lighted magnifier with a floor stand that I use for drilling, applying parts and some decalling. The glass on the thing is about face-sized, and there's a fluorescent bulb all around. The one I have is made by Dazor, which is a bit expensive but worth it in the long run. On a side note, don't bite off too much too early. Start small with things like sunshades (from the Gold Medal diesel detail set) and/or air hoses (BLMA has a great set of these). Proper bells and horns are another good place to start. Stay away from lift rings and windshield wipers at first.
I agree,get your feet wet with items like sunshades and roof air conditioners.I might even suggest practicing your drilling on some old scrap shells to get the hang of how much pressure,when to back the bit out to clear the bit of plastic waste etc.
To add to the points already made, I would suggest investing around $10 into a spare Atlas shell of any kind to get a feel for cutting, drilling, sanding, gluing, etc. Practice and taking your time as you go will greatly influence the project outcome. On the top navigation bar of our site we have a Tips & Tricks section that might come in handy. We also have two videos up on how to install grab irons and our see-through fans.
He ain't joking:angry: Many #80 bits will be broken before you develope the "touch" My record is 3 in one day:unhappy:
I recommend a twist drill (aka spiral hand drill, jewelers drill, etc.) like the (larger) one seen here, instead of a pin vise.
