Marine Tips

Radio Control Boat Modeler, Jun 2004 by Byman, Karl, Niessner, Albert Jr, Weir, Randy, Patricio, Jon

Hex-head handles

We're all familiar with the "L-shaped" hex-head and hex-ball wrenches and how useful they are, but sometimes, those little tools don't provide enough torque. Here's an easy fix. Drill a hole that's slightly smaller than your wrench into the end of a hardwood dowel. Drill a second hole through the side of the dowel to meet, the first. Then, use a scroll saw to turn your holes into a slot that flexes to allow the wrench to be inserted. Drill one last hole perpendicular to the slot and insert a cinch bolt. Now you have a handle that can be tightened around your wrench!

Karl Byman, Longview, WA

Starter-cord quick fix

After a lot of yanking, a nitro engine's recoil starter cord may stretch, but you don't always have to replace a stretched-out starter cord. Instead, slowly extend the cord to its full length, then slide the handle down and make a new knot below the original knot. This will take up the slack and make your recoil starter work as good as new.

Randy Weir

Webster, TX

SERVO-MOUNTING AID

When you install a servo, it can be difficult to maintain a uniform clearance around it while you mark the positions of the mounting holes. If you place a rubber band around the servo just below the mounting lugs, you'll be able to maintain the correct spacing between the servo and the plywood tray. Be sure to take the rubber band off before you install the servo permanently!

Albert Niessner Jr., State College, PA

Quick hardware handbook

Many RC manuals include a hardware legend for properly sizing screws as you assemble the kit. These legends aren't just helpful resources during the initial build, they are also extremely useful during repairs and regular maintenance. Photocopy and paste the hardware legend to the inside lid of your toolbox. That way, it will always be handy. You can also protect and cover it using clear laminating sheets.

Jon Patricio

Tacoma, WA