how can i build a trailer pin?

[perez]

hi there folks, can somebody tell me how i can make a trailer pin? I'm talking about the small thing that all trailers have that connects to a semi by the fifth wheel. =Rafael-

[cfesmire]

This is about as easy as it gets Rafael. Determine the size of the hole in your fifth wheel and get a styrene or metal dowel rod just under that size so it fits down in it. Then it's just a matter of drilling the trailer underside enough to accept the dowel pin and glue it in. Lonestar Models makes a trailer accessory package that has trailer pins in it along with other stuff like landing gear. www.lonestarmodelsinc.com/catalog.htm

[Lee]

Hmm. I thought that there was a foot at the bottem of the pin to keep it from jumping out of the fifth wheel.

[cfesmire]

Lee,
I guess you would like the radio to work in the truck too?

[Lee]

Ah, those small speakers sound so tinny ;D

[BillC]

Lee said:

Hmm. I thought that there was a foot at the bottem of the pin to keep it from jumping out of the fifth wheel.

Heat the tip of a flat-blade screwdriver. Carefully applied, will put a suitable foot on a styrene pin.

I guess you would like the radio to work in the truck too?

It's not the radio I have trouble with; it's loading the CD's. ;D

[Lee]

Mmmm Bill, would you call that a hot foot? ;D

[cfesmire]

I have heard of using a heated screwdriver tip for a lot of things. I have an aversion to heating metal parts and then setting them down when done so I try to use a lightbulb (preferably on) to melt or bend plastic parts for whatever reason. It's usually always there (and on) and it's out of the way when finished. I just hate it when I lean on those hot screwdrivers sitting on the workbench.