Filler/Moulding Material

[DafyddElvy]

I have made a couple of sockets for tram to tram jumper cables.
The photo of just the dash shows the sockets I am using and the photo of the trailer end view shows a socket in place.

The 2 sockets I have fitted had the sockets glued to the dash and then humbrol model filler was roughly applied around the socket and filled to shape. This method isn't ideal, the filler didn't bond very well and shaping with the socket pre fitted has the risk of me scratching the finish.

I am now looking to make the remaining sockets off the model and only fitting after the sockets are finished.

After all that I have a question. The humbrol filler was less than ideal, it's fine as a filler but not so good for my purpose, the finished socket is 10mm x 6.5mm, what do others use or what would others suggest would make a good material for my application, thanks?

 

[JimmyB]

I have very similar sockets I have used on my Streetcar, and because they are polythene, very little bonds well, however I have had some success with UV activated glues, this is the one I have used:

Magic Quick 5 Second UV Light Fix Liquid Glass Welding Compound Glue Repair Pen : Amazon.co.uk: DIY & Tools

Free delivery and returns on all eligible orders. Shop Magic Quick 5 Second UV Light Fix Liquid Glass Welding Compound Glue Repair Pen.

www.amazon.co.uk

 

[PhilP]

So have you used the micro (1.25mm) connectors?
I am assuming the connector is the black blob (to the left of the light) in the first picture?

These connectors are not the most robust. I would 'ease' the locking 'tongues' with a scalpel. - They grip with surprising tenacity! I would strengthen the connection on the flying lead, with heat shrink. - I would possibly use the adhesive-lined version. I might try to find a nice flexible silicon sleeve (or strip from a silicon insulated cable) to make the connection look a little more prototypical.

I wonder if someone has/could design and print a Housing the connector would fit into snugly?
I think I would then epoxy the connector into the housing.

PhilP

 

[dunnyrail]

As Jimmy says those UV glues work very well indeed and have a modest filling capacity. For a real filler I much prefer car body filler, goes off pretty quick in this weather so you have to work fast. But does need to be left overnight before clwaning up.

 

[DafyddElvy]

All great advice as always, thanks folks.

Yes the connector is inside my artistically shaped filler putty (black blob) to the left of the dash board light.

Yes I will be using some tubing over the leads between the plugs.

I have removed the locking tongues, the plugs still seem to hold firm enough with out the locking tongues.

I have passed a socket to a friend who produces things in 3D CAD in the hope it might be able to help me out with something, in the mean time its putty moulding I'm afraid.