To.... my surprise, I found this Template/Jig inside a package I received from Milo of Realmodel. I was pretty excited to test it out but could only find the time this month. So I've a small sort of "Review" to share with you all...
Err..Excuse the fumbling for the right words..
The photo etch brass sheet (36143) is 9.5cm by 7cm. All you got to do is remove the Jigs from the runner and bend the edges on each side and you're ready to go!
There are 5 Jigs/Fitting Tools, with multiple slits along each side. The slits start 2mm above the base, preventing glue or solder from attaching the slat to the jig.
Each jig is designed specifically for positioning and assembly of the individual slat pieces into their corresponding sections.
For example : Jig "2" is for assembly of slat sections "G and R".
(BTW,I recommend you number each jig with a marker pen!)
There are notches in 3 of the jigs, these are of course where the rectangular bars/frames will sit during assembly,etc. Regarding these notches, jig 5 can be also used to position the completed slat section (nos: 125, 149, 151) into slat section "Y" for gluing/soldering.
Note that jig "3" is unique since it's slits are angled, contrary to the other jigs which are perpendicular. Jig 3 will ease the assembly as well since the slats will be fitted at an angle to the rear doors' slat section.
The photos below show one example of how I would use them. But be flexible to whichever method works best, securing/gluing the main slat with slits to the frame then slotting the multiple slats into the slits or vice visa, followed by gluing the joints at one go,etc.
If you are soldering, you'll want to ensure the jig is kept clean from flux, and away from the joint/joints to be soldered. You'll also need magnets to secure the jig down and position a jewelers file (for example) over the slat section to keep it from moving during soldering. The idea is for the file to be attracted to the magnet, so be careful and test the magnet's strength first!
Conclusion..
I have built only 1 slat armored Stryker for a client located in the US (I'm in Singapore BTW) Which means the slats have to be secured very well to survive the trip there. I spent many hours using various bits of magnets,files and what-nots to keep the slat parts positioned so I can assemble and super glue or solder them. A lot of effort and a lot more frustration then I like to admit.. and I have 5 more Strykers to complete..which I can look forward to now!
Thus having tested out these jigs, I conclude they will surely ease assembly and speed the whole slat armor process up!
My only rift is why Eduard did not release this set earlier!!!
Testing..........without any glue.
