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Author Topic: Size of Microcosm part  (Read 1327 times)

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Size of Microcosm part
« on: April 23, 2022, 04:19:01 am »


Hello All,

Does anybody own this Microcosm steam model and could eventually let me know the dimensions of the tray where the fuel tablet is placed ?

The reason I am asking is that I would like to replace a missing burner for a L-S LOC tiny tractor and perhaps the Microcosm one might be a good candidate. Even though it is a very simple part I unfortunately do not have the skills to make one myself, which would be the perfect solution to have exactly the size I need.

I have not found a way to purchase the Microcosm tray alone that is why I would like to make sure I can use the tray if I go for it.

Many thanks for your help.

George

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Re: Size of Microcosm part
« Reply #1 on: April 23, 2022, 04:39:44 am »
Georges - i have the measure of the LS LOC Steam Traction engine tray
but not the Microcosm - maybe someone else has these....
all dimensions in mm
Good luck, Arnold

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Re: Size of Microcosm part
« Reply #2 on: April 23, 2022, 04:44:47 am »
So many thanks for the fast reply Arnold.

This may indeed help finding even an alternative solution.
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Re: Size of Microcosm part
« Reply #3 on: December 21, 2022, 09:48:15 pm »
Go to a hardware store and buy a set of tin snips, (or a left and right hand tin snips if you are feeling spendy) and a good pair of pliers with flat and wide grip teeth. With the measurements from the above images you can draw an "unfolded" sketch of the burner as if it were a flat plate. Then you can try cutting that shape out of an aluminum can or tin can. With the pliers you can fold the metal right up to make a perfect little tray. Might not look perfect, but if the point is functionality it will do that. You can also buy brass and aluminum sheet at the hardware stores that will make things turn out even better, but I had to make a few out of tin cans before I wanted to spend the money on a metal sheet. (hardware stores charge a loooot for metal sheet) https://a.co/d/8u4mcrq
https://a.co/d/aHRjBeL
https://a.co/d/iGveTDW

When you price out tools for a simple job like this it seems like it isn't worth it, but I have been finding any tool that's value is even partially offset by money not spent on a commercial product, is worth building the skill and buying the tool. Like I made 3 or 4 of these fuel trays, and years later I have bought a house and use those same tools and skills for my ducts more than I wish I did haha! Sorry this is probably coming across as condescending, but buy the tools and make one, the Microcosm tray is not the right size, I can measure mine if you realllllly want me to, but it is a very different form factor.
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Re: Size of Microcosm part
« Reply #4 on: December 22, 2022, 05:15:54 pm »
So many thanks for your reply ! Intuitively, even though I had no idea these tools existed I made a search (metal cutting pliers) and I saw them on Amazon. I like your advice purchasing one of those pliers and just trying. It is not a very big risk anyway.

Thanks again !
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Re: Size of Microcosm part
« Reply #5 on: December 22, 2022, 09:08:27 pm »
Best of luck! With a few attempts you could probably start an Etsy shop selling custom made replacements ;)
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