Frustrated - 97 T/A radiator

[ksnow]

I am slowly working on an AMT/Ertl 1997 Trans Am kit that I started about 20 years ago. Trying to get the radiator and hoses glued in, but having a heck of ta time trying to keep everything stay and "straight" until glue sets. 

I tried tweezers and thick CA last night, the hoses kept spinning in the tweezers. After 30 seconds, the CA hadn't set up enough to hole the upper end of the hose to the water pump and my hand cramped.

I am pondering making some sort of jig and alignment blocks to hold this thing in place.

Anyone build this kit and have any suggestions? Another night like last night and this might go back in the box for another 20 years.

[espo]

Have you tried "Pinning" the parts. I didn't invent this as many here use this method as well as others. I use a #75 or .021 size drill and drill both mating surfaces just deep enough to put a short piece of wire into. This will both hold your parts in position and add strength to their bond when glued. I usually use a staple cut to length. These are bendable as needed but are strong for what your trying to do.    

[ksnow]

espo, I have not tried that. I will look into that option tonight. A little flexibility would be a good thing, to let me get everything lined up before the adhesive cures.

Ill have to look for a set of small bits, I don't think my numbered set goes that small.

[espo]

Most Hobby Stores and of course Hobby Lobby usually carry a set of pin vice drills. The ones I use come with a 2" circular  black colored stand with a clear plastic top about 1 1/2" high. You will need a pin vice if you don't have one now. This have become an invaluable toll for me thru the years and I use this on almost everything I build.  I think ones you try it you'll see why. good luck to you.  

[Plowboy]

Something else to consider getting is a pair of small hemostats. They work much better than tweezers. You have to careful and not squeeze them too tightly or else you'll damage the paint. I usually put tape over the teeth to prevent that issue. There's also some that automatically squeeze. But, I always have an issue getting them to release without knocking the part loose. They work great for holding small parts to detail or paint. 

Edited August 31, 2020 by Plowboy

[peteski]

And CA glue accelerator comes in really handy for this type of a problem. I highly recommend the BSI brand. I never spray it!  Always use a very small applicator (Microbrush) to dab it onto the joint.