Estes Saturn V #1969 Build, Part 32, Install Wire Anchor

This illustration is from the older #2157 Saturn V kit. The new instructions don't have a full-size drawing for bending the wire anchor.

If you are a Patreon support member and would like the PDF with the full-size wire template, 3rd stage shroud and fairing crescent reinforcements, email me at:
oddlrockets@bellsouth.net
and ask for the #2157 3rd Stage Shroud PDF.

EDIT: The ends of the old (kit #2157) anchor pattern are too long by about 1/16". Cut the ends a bit shorter than the pattern shows.

The wrap around marking guide didn't match up so I drew my own.
The RCS nozzle location holes aren't really this large. The gluing pins on the back of the RCS housings are smaller.

I prefer not to cut a slit for the anchor, that leaves a slot that is difficult to fill.
TIP: Punch the holes for the anchor and RCS nozzles with a pin instead of spin drilling with a knife tip. You are likely to drill too large a hole with the tip of an X-Acto knife. The positioning pins on the back of the RCS nozzles are a small diameter.

The anchor was bent as shown to allow the upper end to go into the second hole. It does take some coaxing to get the anchor into the two holes. Try not to scratch the body tube.

After the anchor is in, the upper bend is made inside the tube. This is not an easy thing to do. If you don't have patience you might want to cut the slot. This two-hole method does give a cleaner finished look.

This picture was taken after the RCS nozzles were glued on in a later post. The retention rectangle is 60 lb. card stock glued on with yellow wood glue.

EDIT: The anchor Be sure the top and bottom of the cardstock anchor cover is low enough so the capsule shoulder will fit! Allow a little over 1/2" on both sides. I had to go back and trim the top and bottom of the anchor card stock.

Assembly time so far:
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  0:30 minutes this post
19:50 Total so far