The Atlas HO truss bridge was in storage and the upper bracing is bent to starboard about 5 degrees or so. Is it possible to bend plum again with heat? Used a carpenter square to bend straight but the plastic went bent again. The track is ok, just the side bracing bent. Thanks
I'm assuming the bridge is assembled.
Do you have some heavy (model purposes) I-beams or similar materials that you could strap the bent peices to. Using a hair dryer or heat gun carefully, heat and tighten the straps. Be carefull that the straps don't cut into the plastic.
Another thought, clamp pieces to the offended area and somewhat longer, tighten the clamps as you heat the plastic.
Good luck,
Richard
EDIT: Yes, Welcome. Sorry, missed that first time around.
Blue Star .... to the forum.
Richard has a good suggestion for you.
GARRY
HEARTLAND DIVISION, CB&Q RR
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Myself, I wouldn't use heat--seems kinda risky.
I would over-bend the correction, insert a spacer, clamp it up and leave it overnight. Then I'd evaluate the change and do it again, if necessary.
Ed
7j43k Myself, I wouldn't use heat--seems kinda risky. I would over-bend the correction, insert a spacer, clamp it up and leave it overnight. Then I'd evaluate the change and do it again, if necessary. Ed
I'd also be reluctant to use heat, but if I did I'd go for something that produces a gentle, even heat. Such as a basin of warm water.
Robert
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I have tried both hot water and hair dryer. Hot water is good if the entire part is warped and needs to be uniformly heated and reshaped. A hair dryer is better for one section however it can be tricky and you could end up making it worse if you are not careful. You need to have a plan before you start and you will need something straight to line it up against. You can't do it by hand or eye ball it.