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[Miles]

Hi,

After working through the lack of any 'how to' instructions in building a Billings Smit Neterland I have concluded that I need to trim the top of the hull moulding. I have a rotary tool kit and am about ready to make a test cut.

Can anyone advise whether it's best to use a cutting wheel or a needle-nosed cutter - or any other advise on what to use would be appreciated.

Miles

[derekwarner]

Hullo Miles....just returned from two weeks in Adelaide when the temps were 42 degrees C    

I do not know the answer to your question .......so just wait     ...I am sure a member experienced with ABS hulls will come to the rescue....Derek

[Miles]

Hi Derek,

Thanks for that encouragement - I'll wait.

Sorry about the temperature - it normally only gets that hot when we have visitors   

Miles

[DickyD]

Hi Miles

As a preference I would suggest the wheel, however I find a junior hacksaw a better proposition followed by a file.

I find there is less chance of mistakes ie wheel snatching and going its own way.

Hope this is helpful.

[HS93 (RIP)]

I have found this OK to use I just G clamp a lenght of 25 x 50 (2 x 1 in old money) and rest the hull over it , I find I can controle it better than other methods I have tried but I tend to like to use hand tools when I can.

Peter

[Chuffy]

Like Peter I would go for the razor saw every time, especially if the cuts an important one, just keep your fingers behind the direction of the saw though, ABS can be a slippery material to work with and the shape of the hull won't help much. DD has already pointed out the drawbacks of using a wheel plus I find that the ABS very often welds it's self back together again following the cut.

Paul

[LarryW]

HI MILES,
             My method fix masking tape on cut line mark cut line on tape if straight cut clamp on srtaight edge i use a steel ruler.
               curvy bits aslow and steady light scrib cut using several strokes , the tape stops the knife  having its own way .
 i build a lot using styrene sheet and this  the way i cut that as well also my steel straight edges have a cork anti slip mat fixed on back,
      to finish a light sand of using sanding board to finished mark .     hope this helps  LARRY......PS  HEATH @ SAFTY KEEP FINGERS BEHIND CUT TOOL KEEP BAND AIDS HANDY..

[Deep Diver]

I all ways go for a Block Plane, some times called a smoothing plane.  ie a small wood plane

[Captain Flack]

A powered rotary saw tends to melt  its way through.  Stick to hand tools where you can.

[Miles]

Thanks to all you guys who replied.  I really appreciate the help and I think you have saved me from making a big mistake.

Thanks again to everyone.

Miles