What is wrong?

[bogstandard]

I have noticed over the last few months, as the membership is growing, that project posting and replies to them has fallen off sharply.

It seems that if your are into sucking slugs, it gets a lot more response than the very good engineering posts that a few members are putting up here. Also the way to extend and get more interest in a project post is add an off topic bit to it, and it flies away at great speed, with more interest in the off topic bit than the original post.

Does this mean that the membership are more interested in general chit chat than what the site is all about, members projects.

Do we need to use the off topic rule more fiercely?

What does the membership think about all this?

Why are only a minority few showing projects?, when we have such a growing membership.

This is a way  post, maybe we can get a few more answers than if it was an on topic one.

Or is this formum just going to become a general chit chat site?


Bogs

[Darren]

Totally agree...

Examples relating to my posts:

Bandsaw auto off modification. It was simple and it works properly, just one reply

Post on slugs: Whilst it may have been a tad titilating it was not of the subject of this forum. Eleven replies...

What does that say about us?

Like bogs says, are we into modding/engineering or are we more interested in slugs...



This is in no way a reflection on the few that do post good articles on a regular basis....and it is sadly just a few members.

I scour the net, and I have found some members web sites with some really interesting projects. Can I suggest you take the time and post some details here. Projects don't have to be current to be interesting to the rest of us....

Just some thoughts YMMV..

[rleete]

Why are only a minority few showing projects?

In my case, it's a matter of time.  I work full time, and have a lot of stuff going on (last weekend it was the brakes on the Jeep), so shop time is limited.  I don't figure anyone wants a pictorial on replacing brake rotors here.  I suppose I could post a thread about the single parts I've made, and add posts as I progress, but that would drag it out forever.  Lately, I'm trying to concentrate on one project at a time to help avoid that.

I did make a rather crude finger/treadle engine recently, but the camera has been down.  Repair is next on the list, so I should have something to show soon.

[sbwhart]

Is it the same sympton that deters people from introducing themselves, we seem to be getting less introductions than in the past, are we as regular posters a little too intimidating, not wanting to get into selfe analysis but I know I can be a little abrupt over the net at times, on a face to face meeting with people I like to think I'm not like that, but it is a beahaviour the anonimity of the net can foster in people.

It may be as simple as:- through the summer months (northern hemisphere) people just don't have the time for projects the're to buisey enjoying the good weather.

Just my thought for the day

Not getting too heavy or Froudian but still having fun

Stew

[Brass_Machine]

I think Stew has it right... I have noticed on other boards, it tends to die down a little during summer months. Last month was slower than May, but as I check the stats, we are on target for posts and such to hopefully have July equal May.

I know for myself, I haven't had time to get into the shop. Nor have I had the strength this week...

I have a feeling we will pick up some more soon.

BUT, to those guys who have joined but not yet posted... why don't you?? We don't bite! Get to know us. Share with us what you are doing. Even if you are new to making/building/modifying, maybe we can help with ideas and advice. Post up!

Eric

[rleete]

Another reason may be the "me, too" syndrome.  I see a post on how to make a carriage stop, or mount a chuck to a rotary table, and decide that it's good idea.  I make the same thing, without any significant additions or revisions, so it's kind of pointless to post pictures of what has already been shown.

I'm still learning and making stuff, just not anything new.  If I use the ideas, but don't have much to contribute, i'll keep my mouth shut.

[Darren]

Ah yes, but it's the feedback that makes the original poster feel his effort was worthwhile.

Please do show and tell....

[Brass_Machine]

Another reason may be the "me, too" syndrome.  I see a post on how to make a carriage stop, or mount a chuck to a rotary table, and decide that it's good idea.  I make the same thing, without any significant additions or revisions, so it's kind of pointless to post pictures of what has already been shown.

I'm still learning and making stuff, just not anything new.  If I use the ideas, but don't have much to contribute, i'll keep my mouth shut.

Ahh but you should post up build logs even if you are making something that someone else has done. It encourages more people to get involved and post.... know what I mean?

Eric

[sbwhart]

Another reason may be the "me, too" syndrome.  I see a post on how to make a carriage stop, or mount a chuck to a rotary table, and decide that it's good idea.  I make the same thing, without any significant additions or revisions, so it's kind of pointless to post pictures of what has already been shown.

I'm still learning and making stuff, just not anything new.  If I use the ideas, but don't have much to contribute, i'll keep my mouth shut.

Yes I can understand that:-

I made a vice stop based on Johns thread but as there had already been a number of posts on the same subject I contented myselve with just posting a finished pic, as an off topic on another thread.

If people think a subject as been done to death perhaps, they could do a simple post in the related thread showing their interpretation of the subject, its always usfull and interesting, to see how others go about things, and its always nice to see that you've been a help to people.

Cheers

Stew

[Bernd]

I have noticed over the last few months, as the membership is growing, that project posting and replies to them has fallen off sharply.

Bogs

Well, it's summer. Lot's of projects to do out doors when your working on finishing a house. Got back Monday afternoon from vacation, wife is still at there, and the lawn needed mowing, the blades of the mower had a few nice dings in it so it needed sharpening. So the last two days I spent making hay.

After I paid all the bills that had come in over the last week there isn't any left for raw stock for the hobby, espiecialy after buying new tires for the truck which came to over $500.

With the wife still at the camp I needed to make something to eat so had to do a bit of cooking, remember no money to eat out.

Today I need to gather things and load the car so I can go back to the camp tomorrow and bring her back so she can go back to work on Monday.

Now I can go into more detail if you like but I think you get the idea. I did get a chance to think a bit about my trike project while I was at the camp. I plan to do a little bit more soon.

Not all of us are retired. We have yard work to do to make the place look nice and a hobby is supposed to be an enjoyable pass time when nothing else occupies your time.

Regardds,
Bernd

[Darren]

Guys,

I don't think we are referring to the regular posters so much, but more of the 300 or so members that stay silent.

You joined for a reason, so why not take it one step further and join in  

[NickG]

I think a lot of the people that lurk on these forums have an interest in model engineering but maybe have never bitten the bullet and actually tried it. They have probably seen these models at shows and like to think they could make something similar, but don't have the commitment so have never really bitten the bullet and tried it for real. Maybe they don't have the machinery or skills, but if you're going to get the skills / experience, you need to do 1 of a few things for example 1. join a local club with access to knowledge and equipment 2. bite the bullet, buy some equipment, take some advice and have a go. 3. attend night classes.

Other things that could happen are people that used to be active in the hobby but circumstances have changed, they no longer have the time / eqipment / conviction to do it, but still like looking at the models. This nearly happened to me, I got interested at the age of 13 and it was basically all I did until I started University. Then other interests were on the horizon - cars, women, socialising, work etc. I was still very much interested and got back into the hobby a couple of years ago, all-be-it on a rather small scale and it took a long time.

I reckon there will be others that are reluctant to post project logs when they see the quality of some of the stuff on here. I've said before some of the stuff I've posted on here I feel is small and insignificant compared to some of the fantastic projects, but I always try to put some feedback / supportive replys as that is what keeps the project logger interested and ensures it's worthwhile posting.

Finally, I think Stew may have a point about the regular posters being intimidating, well not sure if that's the right word, but a similar thing happened to my wife. She was a regular poster on a forum and a few of them set up a 'breakaway' group and a new forum. This quickly became quite a clique, or at least that's the impression they gave. I wonder if lurkers on this site see the main posters as some sort of clique. I know the regular posters are not like that, they are simply sharing their experiences and offering much help.

I hope we can get more people posting, I will hopefully be posting a few more smaller scale project logs when I've got my workshop set up!

Hope some of that made sense, just chipping in with my views!

Nick

[bogstandard]

I honestly don't think we give the impression of being holier than thou. In fact I apologise at times for showing and using some of the shop equipment I have, not my fault, its all I've got to work with. We can't all have the smallest and most basic machines in the world.

I always recommend people show their efforts during someone elses posting, even though it might be a badly made part or piece. Not only does the original idea poster get a boost from knowing that other people are taking notice of their ramblings, the newbie or other person will get as just as much recognition for his offerings. What would this sport be like if we all made things to very high standards. Methinks, very boring, like 'Oh! no, not another perfect V12 engine'.

As Darren has stated, from the most lowly to the ones with a great deal of experiences should get mixed up in the postings. I learn a lot of things from newbies, they have a more unblinkered way of looking at things, and can come up with some novel ideas on getting around problems, especially lack of tooling ones. We are all in the same melting pot here, and unless we get that certain mix, the stew will turn out tasting awful. Then you will need to suck slugs to get rid of the bad taste.

As mentioned about people who would like to build things, but don't have the wherewithall to do it, whether it be confidence, machinery or cash. I think even if they just made the effort to post a comment, they would feel a lot more at home than just sitting around the outskirts, feeling sorry for themselves. I don't think I have seen on this site any posting that says you must be making things to be involved. Just a good, or bad, comment is all that is needed.

We can't do much about the people who just don't have the time, only to say, if you have the time to read this, it only takes the same amount of time to post a comment. Even if it is, 'I like that' or 'what a load of crap', at least it is a comment.

Bogs

[Divided he ad]

Well.... Personally I have no leg to stand on here..... I've not posted anything of great use for some time and I am spending most of my summer evenings out with friends.

But....

I'll say this much, IMHO there is a lot to be said for a forum where people do have a very odd sense of humour and post odd little things that are of no engineering subject what so ever.... I think that's one of the reasons I like this place so much..... Many of the other places I have tried are right stuck up jobs!

I really love the engineering stuff, I'd have thought that apparent? But I really like the humour element shared with you guys too



This summer is too good for me to spend stuck in my shop, which has a polycarbonate roof and acts like a green house! I'll be back making stuff soon enough.... Although project house starts again on Saturday    Want to see a log on that? Might help me finally finish it off??


I really want to make more little engines, but I really want to make other stuff too.... This is a site dedicated to the modding of anything and everything after all!  What to make/mod.... Now that's the 64million £/$ question!! 



Right I've waffled for long enough.....


You guys are great and your engineering and humour suit me just fine.







To all those who have joined but not yet posted........



You're missing out 






I'm off to the pub! (some of us gotta have fun too you know!  )



Ralph.

[cedge]

John
Considering the season and the outdoor activities many of us are chasing, I'd say the board is getting a normal traffic pattern. I'm one of a minority who consider summer time to be shop season. Winter seems to draw the rest back around hearth, home and shop.

I too wish more of the lurkers would join in the fun, but long experience with forums and news groups tells me your expressed frustration is likely to be long lasting. There is simply a segment who will never surface to actively contribute. We do, however, sometimes underestimate their contributions. They obviously mention the forum to friends and associates and that has helped this board grow. 

Putting your bare arse out in public view is not something most people will ever be comfortable with. My own is leather tough and battle scarred enough that I've learned to enjoy it, but its still an adrenal rush when I start up a new project thread. Once begun, it's a whole lot of fun and it certainly keeps the project moving. I highly recommend giving it a try.

Steve

[sbwhart]

 Although project house starts again on Saturday    Want to see a log on that? Might help me finally finish it off??

Ralph.

WE WANT TO SEE A THREAD ABOUT RALPHS LOG CABIN

Stew

 

 

[John Rudd]

Guys,

I don't think we are referring to the regular posters so much, but more of the 300 or so members that stay silent.

You joined for a reason, so why not take it one step further and join in  

seems to be an internet thing...I'm an Admin on a 'famous' modelling forum, here are a few stats...

362,245 Posts in 17,602 Topics by 5,768 Members..with over 25 members who haven't activated their account...


Every now and then we prune the list purely because it takes back up space on the server..

We also suffer from the same lull in posting ( saves having to moderate so many posts too ) during the summer months..So its not just this place where things are quiet...

[bogstandard]

This posting has now done it's job, and given valuable information. Thank you gents.

Another member and myself had discussed this offline, it is most probably the people at fault, not time of year. This was the only way to prove it.

I posted this  post at midday today, now, 8 hours later, there are 16 posts in this topic. Ok a few are mine, but only in response to other postings.

Most short technical posts on here get usually about a total of four or five at best and if they are lucky, but usually a couple is about the norm.

So 16 for  , just a few for on topic.

So this proves that it looks like it is a general discussion about crap, or guilt, that brings people out of the woodwork. Not working projects.

To the people who say that it is the time of year, but managed to post in this topic, I am sorry, if you can post on this topic, you should be able to do the same with the great technical posts we have on here. By the looks of it, technical posting has little or no following any more.

There is only one course of action that can be taken at this time, ban every off topic post for a short while, and just let's see how popular, or unpopular, the site really is.

To me, and a few others I am sure, a very, very sad state of affairs.


Bogs

[Baldrocker]

I watched this maliase happen on HMEM a while ago.
Now it seems to be infecting this forum.
ELITEISM.
BR

[cedge]

John
Is this recurring desire to chew on this same old bone a seasonal thing with or do you do it at random intervals. It's getting almost too predictable. Let the board be what it is and stop with the whining already.

Steve

[shred]

I'd suggest part of the problem is this forum isn't like most of the internet machining forums-- the bigger, easier to find ones where newbie-flaming is a well-practiced art form.  Got a machine from the wrong country?  You suck.  Don't agree with the Mighty Guru?  You're wrong.... You know the forums... Anybody that's been through that is going to be very careful about posting anywhere and might just hang out and quietly suck up all the info they can.

Cedge had a good post about the few forums that do think somebody's first wobbler engine and 7x12 lathe is cool and don't immediately drop a 'here's my shinier, fancier, better one' post right on top of it.  There aren't many.

[foozer]

I honestly don't think we give the impression of being holier than thou. In fact I apologise at times for showing and using some of the shop equipment I have, not my fault, its all I've got to work with. We can't all have the smallest and most basic machines in the world.

Lurker here. I learn a lot from what is posted here. I haven't a clue as to metal types, what to expect from cutting em, but watching the curls come off is fascinating.

So I try to use what I have to get two pieces fit together. Sounds a lot easier than it really is. What I'm working with is an old AA109  aka boat anchor, and more than once it was headed for the sea. But it is improving as I practice more (still better to blame the machine)

Tried to make a fancy flywheel once. Little thing figured mount it on a face plate at an angle, get some weird offset faces and cut the spokes with the double tapered look. Ha! Boy did that get ugly real quick. Salvaged what material I could and ended up with an insert type with a taper lock hub. An idea from this board. With your writeup on flywheel making using soft jaw chuck, I went out and got one. I love that silly little thing.

Current is trying one of itty bitty rocker/thimble engines, tiny pieces, so started on the axle piece. I cant even focus on em but what the heck. It is good practice in getting the numbers right. Smaller the part, less room for error.

So the post the regulars do make are not in vain. I'm sure that like myself the information is taken in, posting my amateurish attempts, well . . .


Robert

[bogstandard]

I watched this maliase happen on HMEM a while ago.
Now it seems to be infecting this forum.
ELITEISM.
BR

BR, unless I have been wearing the wrong glasses, I have never seen a single incident of elitism on here. Everyone who has asked a question, in my mind, has been given a fair answer without reverting to 'well you must go out and buy such and such to carry out the job'. I my opinion everyone (except in one case) has been shown what to do with the bits they have to hand with no malice or holier than thou thoughts showing through.

You might have confused elitism with a group of the same members doing all the posting on this site.

It is nothing to do with elitism, it is just a fact of life that a few core members are doing their level best to keep the site interesting, and the rest of the membership just sitting back on their ar**s and not responding to anything.

I can tell you now, those core members are spending most of their free time, making up posts, scratching around for ideas and articles that just might keep the members coming back. Not elitism at all, just a group of people dedicated to keeping the site interesting, FREE OF ELITISM, and where members can get assistance if they need it.

It is not our fault that the normal membership can't be bothered to write a short comment every now and again.

With regards to HMEM, that was recognised many moons ago, and was brought into public discussion by myself, and was shouted down and ignored. It seems exactly the same thing is happening here.

Bury your heads in the sand, and let natural progression take it's course was the order of the day.

You now have a HMEM that will never be able to revert to it's original goals, where 'holier than thou' and 'elitism' reigns.

So much for natural progression.

John
Is this recurring desire to chew on this same old bone a seasonal thing with or do you do it at random intervals. It's getting almost too predictable. Let the board be what it is and stop with the whining already.

I do love these open discussions Steve, unfortunatley you are totally wrong this time.

This time, I am just the gob on the front, the one who raised the issue.

A few of the 'elite' prolific posters have had a few private discussions in the background, I am sure you can find a way of making even that illegal, and have basically come to the same conclusion. We break our backs, like you do, making all sorts of things, and spend most of our waking lives making up posts to be shown on here. Only to have it all ignored by all and sundry.

Then why do it you may ask. We want to see the site survive and flourish, but it seems like the rest of the membership don't want that to happen.
If they just want information, then I suggest they go out and buy a book. This forum is about showing what we do, in a light hearted and informative way. If the membership can't be bothered to respond to what is being shown, then why should we even bother to make up the posts in the first place?

Without feedback, how are we to know what the membership thinks, and what they want to see. I don't think any of us who do technical posts are clairvoyant, it should be up to the members who are reading our ramblings to let us know what they want.

Let the board be what it is and stop with the whining already

I am very sorry but this just doesn't cut it this time Steve, please read the above reply to BR's statement.


I would just like to add a thank you to Foozer above, for taking a bit of time out to let us know what he gets out of the site, and any comments like that are deeply appreciated.

Keep up the good work Foozer.

Bogs

[cedge]

Bogster
We'll have to agree to disagree. I've watched this scenario played on several boards and it always ends in the same manner. This time I'm sitting by and let it run its course. I'm not the engineer on this particular train.

I will call foul on the elitism comments... for both boards. I've been on the elitist controlled boards and neither of these venues comes even close to being guilty of that sin. If moderators holding posters to certain standards of safety and civil behavior is a sign of elitism, then your definition is badly skewed. 

Steve

[sbwhart]

Hi Robert

Thanks for you input and comments, that fly wheel looks interesting your second picture especially I can see what you were trying to do, a pity it didn't come off, the basic idea seemed OK, perhaps you could have another go some time, you have to try these things and learn as you go.

Cheers

Stew

[foozer]

Hi Robert

Thanks for you input and comments, that fly wheel looks interesting your second picture especially I can see what you were trying to do, a pity it didn't come off, the basic idea seemed OK, perhaps you could have another go some time, you have to try these things and learn as you go.

Cheers

Stew

Ditto on the thanks.. The second flywheel I actually like better than what my first try was to be. It would of been a dull visual anyway even if the weird taper turned out
 ( a sure case of idea exceeding ability) The second version also gave me some insight on fitting parts. The rim is brass, the web is AL, the hub is two pieces of AL to make up a tapered lock arrangement. Them little studs to hold it together BLAH. Cutting out the radius on the web was the most fun. Rigged up a face plate and bored the radius out, rotated the part and repeated the op. Only have that little lathe so operations that would be done on a mill require some creativity, or in my case of not knowing any better, a doohickey to fashion the thing-a-ma-jig for the watch-a-ma-call-it.

I like reading this board, many good process's are played out. I have not seen any instance of "Mines better than yours" occur which speaks to the integrity of the members.

The general conversation of just a few regulars doing the posting seems to be a common one. I have humor, I'll be the first one to tell that guy in the mirror he's a nut and it shows in my writing style. I dont mind being told at all, constructive criticism is always appreciated and taken respectively.

So the next "Standing with Pride, lookie what I can do" will have pictures.


Robert

[foozer]

I would just like to add a thank you to Foozer above, for taking a bit of time out to let us know what he gets out of the site, and any comments like that are deeply appreciated.

Keep up the good work Foozer.

Bogs

No thanks needed, you do spend a lot of effort to make this hobby enjoyable. You take the time to write up how-to's for items you can do in your sleep on a bad day neck deep in snow with the dog chewing your slipper. You also do these in a language that is clear even for one like myself who never can get the terminology right.

Sure you have a toybox full of bells and whistles, but your presentations focus on the procedures to which one lacking that specific shinny thing can always do a work around to achieve the same end. Many ways to an end and your writings, methods always give enough leeway that even I manage to comprehend and adapt to usage with what I have at hand.

Must be late for me and way to much in the butter up section  I'd say grouchy old . . . but getting shot is something I'd like to avoid


Robert

[Divided he ad]

Ok.... So this reply will be a little on topic a little off topic and a little fuzzy inbetween..... Why?

Because I'm human and that's what we do!

I've never ever been able to sit and talk to someone about a single subject in my life, I always end up on a random tangient talking about something very different than when I started! I do usually return to the point (not always!). That's just the way I am.

Now I'm assuming that many of you will be the same?  You get to know someone a bit and the conversations you have wander all over the place?

I've been posting on here for I think around a year? In that time I've posted all sorts of S417! 

But I've had a laugh and a joke, learned loads and hopefully helped, even inspired a few people along the way.... Surely that's what the forums are for?




Robert..... That middle picture looks like a brilliant idea....   Try again and post the way you do it please.  You really should post this stuff..... Failure or not, it's damn good looking 

So is the second one..... I don't give a hoot if 300 people use the same idea, everyone always does something a little different!
It all helps create more ideas for others too 




It makes me a little sad to see this post becoming a bit of an argument..... I think it has nudged  a few people into realising that (I) they havn't been as active..... I'm just enjoying myself!! 




Hoping for a happier outcome by the time I'm home from work?   






Ralph. 

[Stilldrillin]

Well....

As usual, I`ve landed here with it all having been said & discussed by many, far more eloquent than me. 

What happened to the comment, some time ago, "like being down the pub with your pals"?
What is the off topic section for?

Hobby wise, I`m into rather mundane bits & pieces from odds & ends at the moment, with little new to show.
Other than MK 11 plastic pistons, & SEL wick holders on their way to Australia...... 
 
We`re not all projecting all the time!

Personally, I thought we had settled down nicely....... Is it me? 

David D

[bogstandard]

David,

This topic was raised to cause a slight upset and to remind people that just a very tiny comment on someones post can make all the difference.

How would you feel if you had just spent three or four hours making up what you think is a very interesting post, and after it is posted, hardly any comments or questions appeared in relation to it.

Mainly because of the lethargy of other members.

It was purely done to shock those members into taking a little more notice of what they are reading and to take a little more interest in the site.

John

[John Hill]

I must admit I do not respond to every post I read  but I do try to acknowledge those who respond to mine.



Unfortunately I am on rather limited 'shed time' and I would find it quite a challenge to have something interesting to post each day,  thats my excuse anyway..


John
a.k.a The Artful Bodger

[Stilldrillin]

David,

This topic was raised to cause a slight upset and to remind people that just a very tiny comment on someones post can make all the difference.

How would you feel if you had just spent three or four hours making up what you think is a very interesting post, and after it is posted, hardly any comments or questions appeared in relation to it.

Mainly because of the lethargy of other members.

It was purely done to shock those members into taking a little more notice of what they are reading and to take a little more interest in the site.

John

Ok John!

Agreed....... That has happened to me!  

I also have limited shed & computer time...... 

David D

[John Hill]

...And there I was thinking the reason noone responded to my posts was because they were all asleep on the other side of the world!

[NickG]

I agree with bogs also, it is frustrating if you go to the time and effort of creating these fantastic write ups and you don't get much response. It can easily put you off doing it again.

As I said, I've done a couple of small ones and was please with the recognition / feedback they got, but it was really hard work. I hardly have enough time to make the things (maybe a few hours a week workshop time), writing them up as well adds about 50% more time on. So all I would say is that whilst there are a few members breaking their backs to make this forum great, not everybody has the time or will do do the same. I don't think that'll ever happen, to do that you need to spend a significant amount of time on here and a lot of people just can't do that. A lot of people see going on the internet as a fill in thing to do, not as a main interest. Model Engineering is probably my main interest yet I only usually spend probably an average of 15 mins a night on the forum plus a bit during break times at work, because there is so much else to do.

I'm sure people really appreciate the effort the main guys put in (I know I do, as it wouldn't be here without them), but it still won't make the forum higher up on other members' list of priorities, it's still just something to fill the time in.

All that said, I do agree with John's point that if people have time to read the topics then they should also have time to give at least a few words of feedback, encouragement or whatever it may be. It doesn't need to be War and Peace just something to recognise the effort show some respect and appreciation.

As this topic has proved, it is kind of annoying that people are more interested in any kind of debate / argument than technical posts the forum is intended for. I used to post on some car forums before I had changes in circumstances (wife & kids) and more often than not posts ended up which car was faster or better than which without any technical input pinging backwards and forwards, for that reason I only ever use them if I have a problem, but more often than not these days there is nobody there than can answer difficult questions. I guess that problem could happen here if we're not careful.

Nick

[Darren]

As this topic has proved, it is kind of annoying that people are more interested in any kind of debate / argument than technical posts the forum is intended for. I used to post on some car forums before I had changes in circumstances (wife & kids) and more often than not posts ended up which car was faster or better than which without any technical input pinging backwards and forwards, for that reason I only ever use them if I have a problem, but more often than not these days there is nobody there than can answer difficult questions. I guess that problem could happen here if we're not careful.

Nick

I think that's the crux of this thread.....use it or loose it...

[hitandmissman]

It seems this is true of all forums.  Now as for why I don't post--- well as a self taught,and I hate to call myself this-machinist, what I have to offer the forum is to be trueful, nothing.  I have serveral projects that I have started and put aside for various reason, mostly I don't know how to do something. But I do lurk here and find that the amount of knowledge that can be gained is fantastic.  But as John said at the start of this thread, people seem to want to debate about things.  So I find it best to just stay quiet and watch from the side lines.  Will I ever post something, yes if I think it is worth showing but anything I show will not hold a candle to what I see. But I hope those with the knowledge don't stop posting as it helps people like me a great amount just seeing how something, even if it is something I will never do, machined or set up to machine.  So with this said or tried to say, a very big thank to to all who do post.

[bogstandard]

H&M,

Whether it be a bent nail in a bit of wood, or a cutaway section of the Titanic, everyone should be entitled to show their work, whether good or bad, and receive merit for it.

It is the taking part that counts, not the quality of the work. If you have made it, be proud of it. We all had to start somewhere.

I got a competition going over on HMEM, to make a finger engine in the shortest possible time. I think there were about a dozen entries at the end, and a few of them were stunning in their simplicity and how well they worked. The winning one I think, was one made from a tin can. But the one which stuck in everyones mind was when one chappie was playing his vid, the flywheel fell off, and not intentionally, and all you could hear in the background was laughter. Now that chap knew he wasn't going to win, because he had made such a rotten job of it, but he still took part, and wasn't ashamed of showing his results.

That is how a forum should be, and this one is, if only we can get a few more people involved, even showing the not too successful projects.

John

[Brass_Machine]

It seems this is true of all forums.  Now as for why I don't post--- well as a self taught,and I hate to call myself this-machinist, what I have to offer the forum is to be trueful, nothing.  I have serveral projects that I have started and put aside for various reason, mostly I don't know how to do something. But I do lurk here and find that the amount of knowledge that can be gained is fantastic.  But as John said at the start of this thread, people seem to want to debate about things.  So I find it best to just stay quiet and watch from the side lines.  Will I ever post something, yes if I think it is worth showing but anything I show will not hold a candle to what I see. But I hope those with the knowledge don't stop posting as it helps people like me a great amount just seeing how something, even if it is something I will never do, machined or set up to machine.  So with this said or tried to say, a very big thank to to all who do post.

That right there is a reason to post in itself. You could get answers as to how to do something. Finish those projects! we will help however we can. I wouldn't worry about being embarrassed to show something because you think it isn't good enough... it always will be good enough to show. Please, post up.

Eric

[Bernd]

H&M,

Whether it be a bent nail in a bit of wood, or a cutaway section of the Titanic, everyone should be entitled to show their work, whether good or bad, and receive merit for it.


John

Well here's my "bent nail in a piece of wood", what did I do wrong? 



I'll be back on Sunday night to find out the answer. Need to go get the wife from the vacation camp.

Bernd

[Divided he ad]

Debate.... Quite humourously John you've started one that will get a great deal of replies ( I know that was probably the idea, and yes I had to put my oar in too  )

I just like this place a lot..... It's fun.


This thread has now taken on a life of it's own..... As they always do! 




Now then, that said.....

Hitandmissman,
since you will no doubt see this.....I'll ask you, Please don't be shy.

If you want to see the first effort I hit HMEM with and thought I'd get laughed at then here it is.... (just look at the way I was beating the thing half to death trying to get a runner! A lot of members here might not have seen this )   I got a few positive lines of text from some and a lot of help from others relating to geometry and mass of the flywheel etc.

I understand the feelings involved in posting your work. If the replies had gone badly then I suspect I'd have still tried and would not have given up on engines or showing them. I might just have not had the same drive?
As it was it led to the completion of two other engine related builds that I am very proud of (even if there is a wobble.... I need to concentrate on workholding etc!)

Point being... There are no people here that will knock you down (except maybe in safety issues), most will help till they can type no more.
Why? Because we like to see others work doing what it should or looking good or getting better, because the reply usually comes with an obvious smile in the post.
This makes us feel better too (well it does me) 





I'm going to try and hit the 'shop tonight..... I have a backlog to get upto date on and the weather sucks..... Perfect for a 'shop evening! 







Ralph. (I started this post miles before Bog's and Eric posted theirs...... I think I'm just slow??  )



Just seen this............. 

Well here's my "bent nail in a piece of wood", what did I do wrong?

I think there is something about driving nails into knots.... Dunno much about the black art of "wood" 

[dsquire]

Well here's my "bent nail in a piece of wood", what did I do wrong? 



I'll be back on Sunday night to find out the answer. Need to go get the wife from the vacation camp.

Bernd

Bernd

I think you have 2 choices on this one.

1. Pre drill before driving nail.

2. Use a better grade of nail, possibly concrete nail.

hope this helps

Cheers 

Don

[usn ret]

Hello boys and [girls?].  Have been on the road for most of the summer as we have grandkids and birthdays scattered all over California and family in Arizona. On the road again!!!! The shop/garage tend to be a little warm in the summer here in the Calif desert, daytime temps tend to be in the 90-110F outside and of course minimal air circulation adds to feeling of too hot for now.  Can't have sweat dripping on that fresh shiny new bit, can we?  The little shop time I get is spent working on the Triumph TR7 engine swap, all the bracketery is done and now trying to sort out the wiring harness for the engine/fuel injection. I would rather be making something other than chasing a wire only to find out "YOU CUT THE WRONG WIRE"!!!!!!! Chasing wires is about as much fun as getting a 'root canal'.  When the temps drop I will go back to making chips.  While on the road computer time is limited therefore I pop in for a quick look and go on.  
The main reason I signed on to this forum was that I noticed that the rooky/newby was not talked down to and suppportive comments were offered to encurage and compliment his/her efforts.  SO, KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK.
CLIFF

[Brass_Machine]

... The little shop time I get is spent working on the Triumph TR7 engine swap, all the bracketery is done and now trying to sort out the wiring harness for the engine/fuel injection. ...

How about some pictures/build thread on the TR7? Those are neat little cars...

Eric

[bogstandard]

Bernd,

What do you mean? I can't see you have done anything wrong.

What a great project, frugalistic house furniture.

I await your finishing the project, just two more holes to drill, and it will be ready for mounting on the wall.

I also like the dual purpose use as well, with the perfect selection of nail length and bending angle, so that it can be used as either a hat OR coat hanger.

I've got to make me a few of those.


Bogs

[foozer]

Ok.... So this reply will be a little on topic a little off topic and a little fuzzy inbetween..... Why?

Robert..... That middle picture looks like a brilliant idea....  Try again and post the way you do it please.  You really should post this stuff..... Failure or not, it's damn good looking  

It was a little too ambitious for my skill level and the accuracy of my lathe. Shot shows the jig used, piece mounted on a faceplate at an angle. Has a little pointy that engages the outer rim index holes which as I rotated the part to the next position. They got to be "Spot On"  and well it got ugly. The offset angle has to be accounted for as it altered the center line. Little more than I could do with a stone axe and flint knife. Was fun tho to give it a shot. learned a lot of "not to do's" first being weigh big idea against reality , ensure piece has more back support so it don't rock as it gets clamped down, make sure when you do the opposite side, your on the same set of index marks,  surprise surprise, but, naw, what fun is that.

Ill give it another shot as I improve my own ability. Think tho I'll use AL, less tears over the scrap.

Robert

[John Hill]

Just for you John, I have posted another topic in the 'wood and stuff' section.

[DavesWimshurst]

H&M,

Whether it be a bent nail in a bit of wood, or a cutaway section of the Titanic, everyone should be entitled to show their work, whether good or bad, and receive merit for it.


John

Well here's my "bent nail in a piece of wood", what did I do wrong? 



I'll be back on Sunday night to find out the answer. Need to go get the wife from the vacation camp.

Bernd

I do knot know!
Dave

[Divided he ad]

Ill give it another shot as I improve my own ability. Think tho I'll use AL, less tears over the scrap.

Good Stuff Robert, Looking forward to the post...... I'm intregued by the look of it..... I like oddities when it comes to the final look of any work 

Brass is a little pricey to do a test on..... But the ali isn't that far behind 



Going to search for John Hills wood post now 






Ralph.

[Stefan Pynappels]

I enjoy reading posts, I just don't have any machinery of my own to make my own shavings. I got some shop time with Spuddevans yesterday and I loved it, but I feel like I can't post about what I'm not doing, and cannot do at the moment. Does not stop me reading and admiring other peoples work though. Will post a topic on last night though....

[bogstandard]

Spynappels, Sleppanyps, whatever,

It doesn't matter if you have no machinery. Remember, this isn't a model engineering site, as a lot of people think, it is a projects site, where almost anything goes. It is just that the few who do model engineering usually have a lot more gas in them than everyone else, so we have to get rid of the gas somewhere, it just happens to be here.

You don't even have to make anything, if you see something you like, make a comment, such as oooh! or aaaah! or what a load of crap. Everything here is taken with a pinch of salt, and I don't think anyone on here would be offended by a little bit of constructive criticism. Just don't ever post your full address.

So machinery or not, everyone on here likes to think that at least someone is taking a bit of an interest in what they are doing, and a little comment by someone such as yourself, can make all the difference between the post being abandoned or flourishing.

If you want to know something or don't understand what you have seen or read, the experience of all the members on here can surely help in that situation, or knows a man who can.

So just do as you are doing, pop a little post or reply when you feel like you can, and you will be welcomed with open arms.

Bogs (John)

[Bernd]

Bernd

I think you have 2 choices on this one.

1. Pre drill before driving nail.

2. Use a better grade of nail, possibly concrete nail.

hope this helps

Cheers 

Don

Ok Don,

Will give those suggestions a try. But don't wait for an answer right away.

Bernd

[Bernd]

Bernd,

What do you mean? I can't see you have done anything wrong.

What a great project, frugalistic house furniture.

I await your finishing the project, just two more holes to drill, and it will be ready for mounting on the wall.

I also like the dual purpose use as well, with the perfect selection of nail length and bending angle, so that it can be used as either a hat OR coat hanger.

I've got to make me a few of those.


Bogs

All great ideas Bogs. Think I'll hang it up in the shop and hang my shop apron on it. Thanks.

Bernd

[bogstandard]

Bernd,

Whether it be a bent nail in a bit of wood, or a cutaway section of the Titanic, everyone should be entitled to show their work, whether good or bad, and receive merit for it.

I think your little joke proves my point exactly. Not everyone has to be a master craftsman to get recognition.

Even the lowliest of efforts by one person can mean the world to him, so why shouldn't he get praise for his handiwork, rather than riducule?

Lack of money, facilities and raw materials, or even ability, doesn't mean that person can't enjoy what he wants to do.

Whether it be a bent nail in a bit of wood, or a cutaway section of the Titanic, everyone should be entitled to show their work, whether good or bad, and receive merit for it.


Bogs

[Stilldrillin]

I have noticed over the last few months, as the membership is growing, that project posting and replies to them has fallen off sharply.

It seems that if your are into sucking slugs, it gets a lot more response than the very good engineering posts that a few members are putting up here.
Bogs

Well, John Lad....

You certainly stirred things nicely with this posting...... 

For the past few days I`ve had around 20 emails waiting for me, when I switch on! 

The forum`s never been busier...... Long may it continue..... 

Blummin well done! 

David D

[Bernd]

I think your little joke proves my point exactly. Not everyone has to be a master craftsman to get recognition.

Even the lowliest of efforts by one person can mean the world to him, so why shouldn't he get praise for his handiwork, rather than riducule?

Lack of money, facilities and raw materials, or even ability, doesn't mean that person can't enjoy what he wants to do.

Whether it be a bent nail in a bit of wood, or a cutaway section of the Titanic, everyone should be entitled to show their work, whether good or bad, and receive merit for it.


Bogs

Agree 100% with that John.

Bernd

[bogstandard]

David,

It wasn't a nice thing to do, and it caused a bit of an upset in the beginning, but once people realised it was nothing nasty, and that they can talk to each other on the forum, things just went from there.

I explained early on that I was only the poster, others were involved as well, but it seemed to have worked and everyone is still talking to each other.

A good result all round for everyone I think.


John

[foozer]

David,

It wasn't a nice thing to do, and it caused a bit of an upset in the beginning, but once people realised it was nothing nasty, and that they can talk to each other on the forum, things just went from there.

I explained early on that I was only the poster, others were involved as well, but it seemed to have worked and everyone is still talking to each other.

A good result all round for everyone I think.


John

Its a natural cycle, takes a little push once in a while to keep the cycle going. Kinda like the neighbor dog who likes to play fetch. Always coming to the shop door wanting to play. tugging at your pant leg for attention. For a while it is a pleasant change. But it can get . . . and so the dog comes around less often. After a while one begins to miss the dog and stick, a little holler out and the cycle repeats.

Regardless of niceties, some things are just given their due, as it is now time for my sardine and coffee break, everything else can wait.

Robert

[Alan Haisley]

Bernd,

After looking this over:

It really looks like an excellent example of a bent nail in a piece of wood. I don't believe that I have ever seen better, even by master craftsmen.

Alan

[Gerhard Olivier]

Im a little dissapointed the nail should be SHINY

Im very guilty of the not posting But I read all of it.  And learn al LOT!!!!!!!!!!!

Im making a tumbler reverse for my 918 warco lathe  will start a separate post about that  -it will be slow its 2 months in already and still nowhere close.

Will shout every now and agian.

Gerhard

[dsquire]

Well here's my "bent nail in a piece of wood", what did I do wrong? 



I'll be back on Sunday night to find out the answer. Need to go get the wife from the vacation camp.

Bernd

Bernd

I am willing to bet that you never imagined how much milage you were going to get out of the bent spike and 2x4. Just the way the knot is centered and the angle of the bent spike, tells me that it just happened that way. If you would have planned it that way it would not have worked out as good. I hope that at least you fasten it on the wall to hang a hat or shop coat on.

I think this is just one of those "I couldn't have done it if I tried" things.

Cheers

Don

[CrewCab]

I am willing to bet that you never imagined how much mileage you were going to get out of the bent spike and 2x4.

Guys, this image is now an ICON and to be fair is almost the symbol of MadModder  ............. and as such, someone ought to go and check that it is in a place of honour, revered by all who pass by 

so who' lives near Bern'd  ........................ if there's no takers I'll go if Eric's paying expenses   

CC

[dsquire]

Guys, this image is now an ICON and to be fair is almost the symbol of MadModder  ............. and as such, someone ought to go and check that it is in a place of honour, revered by all who pass by 

so who' lives near Bern'd  ........................ if there's no takers I'll go if Eric's paying expenses   

CC

CrewCab

I never thought of it that way but now that you have mentioned it and the more I think about it, "this image is now an ICON and to be fair is almost the symbol of MadModder". I am quite sure that when bernd sees these posts he will let us know his feelings.

In the mean time, everyone could email, fax, write, just add a short post here encouraging bernd to do the right thing .

Cheers

Don

[CrewCab]

                 

Bernd ............ are we worthy   

CC

[Bernd]

AW, gee, shucks guys.

I don't know what to say. I guess if it's Ok'd by Eric, it's OK by me.

And all I wanted to do is make a "funny" with that post.

Now I'm going to have to hang that "symbol" on my shop door. Stay tuned pics to follow.


Bernd

[websterz]

Summer in Oklahoma + stuffy building = No place to be!

Actually the heat has subsided a bit and I now have no more excuses for not being in the shop, so yesterday I (re)started a couple of projects I have been needing to get done. I made a new baseplate and handwheel for my tailstock, and beefed up the adjusting mechanism. I will post up pics of the finished product and of my tailstock alignment process tomorrow. I also pulled my power feed project out of mothballs and got it about 95% finished. My dad came by with a few large boxes of stuff for my shop the other day, included were several little aluminum project boxes. One of them was a perfect fit for my motor control board, that being the last bit I needed to complete the job. I just have to fab up one more little aluminum bit and attach the controller then that project will be done finally!  While I'm on the mill I need to get that new Z axis rack installed and find enough scrap lead to cast up a counterweight....here we go again...

 

[Bernd]

Here's the pic of the "symbol" hung on my door to the model shop.



Seems like the master is away as the chair is empty at the moment. 

Benrd

[dsquire]

Here's the pic of the "symbol" hung on my door to the model shop.



Seems like the master is away as the chair is empty at the moment. 

Benrd

Thanks Bernd. Now all will be able to rest assured that the spirit of MadModder as well as its symbol will live on.

Isn't it amazing some of the turns these thread can take?

cheers 

Don

[Bernd]

Ya your right. I'm starting to think this subject is starting to turn  . But hey, it's in the right area. 

Bernd