The MFH Rescue Centre

[paddy]

The problem i think is that the metal casting moulds used by MFH are silicone moulds that have a short run before they deteriorate. This is why MFH kits are produced in low volume and short runs and rarely re-issued or repeated. The silicone moulds would be produced from a brass master usually so it is possible to produce second runs.
I have looked at the chain on my recent Crocker build and although i did have to buy a second chain kit to produce one chain, i did manage to assemble 110 links as required. The point is the castings on the chain i made up were 100% better than the ones in the Brough kit and although i have bought another chain kit, its even worse than the one supplied in the kit
I think its safe to say that while first runs and early examples are passable, later runs are not as the moulds have deteriorated and sizing is critical. this probably is not as important on most parts but the chain has to be right to work.
Unfortunately MFH dont answer questions as i supose they dont have an answer however why they still produce the chain as a separate part when they know these chains are even worse( later issues) than the kit parts is anyone's guess.

 

[moon puppy]

Well, how we going to get pass this?

 

[paddy]

I cant see a way round this Bob. The whole set up needs a re design.
I spent a life time in this field sorting out production design and associated problems for companies and this is one of those projects that needs to start again, i dont see a viable fix.
No doubt MFH wanted to keep all production in house which is why they went down this route but even a rubber band chain would be a more realistic option than no chain.
If i had to write a report, which thank god i dont anymore, i would say the design and construction method is constrained by the desire to build/supply a working chain on a model where the wheels are fixed so "working" is completely unnecessary. Once you accept that working is not needed then neither are individual side plates and rollers .
That said if you are prepared to farm the production out then nylon is probably the answer as used by Tamiya on their motorcycle chain in both 1:6 and 1:12 .
For this model i think i can get a short length together with glue for the section that is visible IE: not behind engine covers and the chain guard.

 

[Heavens Eagle]

Too bad you can't get some fine brass tubing about the right diameter of the main part, then some fine solder wire the diameter to go through the PE and tubing. Cut the tubing to lengths and the solder long enough to brad the ends over the PE.

 

[paddy]

You heard it here first......Decalcas replied to my request saying they are currently working on a chain in 1/9 scale and it will be ready in a few weeks. Of course modern chains are different pitch to vintage chains but at least it might give MFH builders something to work with.

 

[Rhino]

You heard it here first......Decalcas replied to my request saying they are currently working on a chain in 1/9 scale and it will be ready in a few weeks. Of course modern chains are different pitch to vintage chains but at least it might give MFH builders something to work with.

Outstanding! Molten metal is tough on silicone molds, even if you use the hi-temp variety.

 

[paddy]

Progressing again now , built up the rear sub frame and attached and everything is still straight which is a miracle These are not easy builds and when something goes right its like the sun came out on a cloudy BBQ..