How to remove battery box from plastic hull?

[Blackadder123]

Hi all,

I plan to convert a plastic hull Pz3 to one with magnetic lock so I can use standard size Nimh and have more room inside. Does anyone have any suggestions on what method I should use to remove the plastic battery box?

Thanks

[c.rainford73]

I've used a dremel with a cutting disk. Then I grind it flat with the dremel and different attachments

[AlwynTurner]

Yes that's my preferred method as well, I use a small razor saw to cut through some of the vertical attachments to the box,
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Hobby-Mini-Ra ... 462459382b
I find this an essential addition to my tool kit

Alwyn

[silversurfer1947]

I have found that my Dremel has tended to melt the plastic, even at its slowest speed. I still managed to remove the battery box from my Pz III using it. I found that some of the hull stiffness had disappeared, so I fitted a new floor of 2mm plasticard. It gave me a nice level playing field, so to speak.

[c.rainford73]

I have found that my Dremel has tended to melt the plastic, even at its slowest speed. I still managed to remove the battery box from my Pz III using it. I found that some of the hull stiffness had disappeared, so I fitted a new floor of 2mm plasticard. It gave me a nice level playing field, so to speak.

I use the same process with the plasticard base afterwards

[Blackadder123]

I see, guess I'll have to buy myself one of those machines. On the topic of installing the magnetic lock, does anyone know where one should attach the little magnets? I plan to buy small magnetic plates and stick them, with hot glue (any other glue suggestions) onto the poles where the screws are usually located.

[Blackadder123]

I have found that my Dremel has tended to melt the plastic, even at its slowest speed. I still managed to remove the battery box from my Pz III using it. I found that some of the hull stiffness had disappeared, so I fitted a new floor of 2mm plasticard. It gave me a nice level playing field, so to speak.

Doesn't gluing the battery cover onto the hull allow it to retain its former rigidity?

[silversurfer1947]

It will help a little, but you have lost the box, which is were a lot of strength comes. Just think - you can flex a sheet of plasticard, but a box made of the same material is rigid.

[jarndice]

I use Countersunk Neo-Dymium Magnets from ---
http://www.first4magnets.com
I never use glue because it will not hold the magnets they are too strong, using countersunk magnets allows you to screw them into position.
Shaun.

[43rdRecceReg]

Yes that's my preferred method as well, I use a small razor saw to cut through some of the vertical attachments to the box,
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Hobby-Mini-Ra ... 462459382b
I find this an essential addition to my tool kit

Alwyn

Totally agree, Alwyn. My 'Trumpeter' branded razor saw was almost the most indispensable tool during my Cromwell build. It can be used in some really awkward spots too; tank sections that would defeat other tools...including the dremel.
As for losing strength in the hull, it's always possible to bond bracing struts in later at strategic points (not unlike spars in a plane wing). Strips of styrene, or even metal can be used. I've often used them to stiffen the upper hulls of my tanks, as well as the bendier bits of the turret