Repairing S-band strut on Grumman LM model

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Author	Topic: Repairing S-band strut on Grumman LM model
Nanonevol Member Posts: 24 From: Medway, MA Registered: Mar 2023	posted 03-13-2023 04:45 PM The wire mount for the S-band antenna is missing the thin wire that was butt connected to the thicker wire on my otherwise near-perfect Grumman Apollo Lunar Module model. I'm going to attempt to drill a tiny hole on a drill press when the tiny drill bits I order arrive but I'm not optimistic. Any suggestions out there, such as a person who could make this repair for me? I've separated the triangular wire mount from the rest of the model. Thanks!
GACspaceguy Member Posts: 3316 From: Guyton, GA Registered: Jan 2006	posted 03-13-2023 05:18 PM I am thinking that you can carefully use the drill by rolling it between your fingers and slowly and methodically drill in the part. Takes a good while but it has the best control for tiny holes.
Tom Dahl Member Posts: 40 From: MA, USA Registered: Jan 2012	posted 03-13-2023 06:10 PM I suggest using a so-called "pin vise" to hold very small drill bits. Do a web search and you should find many examples. I have four or five that cover various (overlapping) size ranges from zero diameter up to 1/16 inch or so. Hobby shops usually have them, and they can be ordered on line.
Nanonevol Member Posts: 24 From: Medway, MA Registered: Mar 2023	posted 03-14-2023 07:59 AM Thanks for the suggestions! I'll give it a go when the tiny drills arrive. My concern is that the snapped off thin wire is a harder metal than the thick. I may be better off making a new piece.
mmmoo Member Posts: 616 From: London, England Registered: May 2001	posted 06-29-2026 03:37 PM I am looking for the three-armed strut that holds the S-Band antenna. I have already tried Precise Models and SFX Models but they don't have it. Anyone have any other suggestions? Editor's note: Threads merged.
GACspaceguy Member Posts: 3316 From: Guyton, GA Registered: Jan 2006	posted 06-29-2026 04:07 PM I would get an aluminum rod (0.10" Dia from measuring mine) and for the forward and aft major "U" section using needle nose pliers and bend the "U" section to the correct form. May take a couple of tries. Once complete using a straight piece of rod make the center rod. Insert all the ends into the model and crazy glue the center section on the top of the U section. Drill for and install a small wire pin in the end of the center section that is the diameter the antenna hole will accept.

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