Do any of you have any advice for securing pods to the tips of fins (for example the older Estes Interceptor)? Have any of you tried TTW techniques with pods? Some other technique?
Thanks.
Thanks.
Certainly not as good as TTW technique, but more secure than simple attachment.
I use what I call "balsa fillets."
Cut a thin strip of balsa (if you use 1/16", cut it 1/16" wide and the length of your fin attachment). Draw your position line down the length of the pod where you want the fin to go. Glue this in place and allow to dry.
Use the double glue joint technique, use this as a base/guide to glue the pod to the fin. If desired for extra strength and symmetry, you can add a second strip of equal length on the opposite side once the pod/fin joint is dry.
Advantages:
Provides a stronger joint (basically more surface area of adhesion) than simple attachment (doesn't beat TTW)
Assuming you draw your line straight and put the first strip on aligned to your line, just about guarantees perfect alignment. This can be tough when you "free hand it." Does not beat TTW (assuming in THAT case your CUTS are straight!)
Disadvantage:
Some may not like the aesthetics, although with a 1/16" fillet you can barely see it, and you can probably cover it with Titebond Trim and Molding glue fillet when done.
This technique also works well with attaching fins to the body tube, and might be one to consider when working with kids to get perfectly aligned fins. Although it takes more time (it adds a step, you have to attach and allow to dry, so doesn't work well with a rapid build rocket party), in comibination with double glue joint technique the fin attachment is faster and the longitudinal alignment (with the rocket axis) should be perfect.
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