Keel Clamp

thingiverse

I needed a keel clamp to start in the production of a model boat build and decided it would be cheaper to print one than buy one. However search as I may I could not find one. So I ventured into making it. I wanted it to come apart for storage as I only have a very small hobby area. I am extremely new to all this but used fusion 360 and several test prints before the eventual item pictured. I did use https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1460590 to get things started but did resize bits, add a base and arm to the joints. I also changed the bolts to M3's rather than PLA as I could not get on with them from the previous make. I also added M3 bolts to the joints to add stability as there was some wobble. the holes are threaded. If prefered the keel bar can be fitted directly to the base for a lower centre of gravity. I have fitted foam pads to the clamp jaws, This can be seen in the views looking down over the clamp, if you look closely you can see both the different versions. the jaw at the top is wider but does angle down I found that once the socket bolts were tightened everything was firm and stable and can be angled into various positions. The STL's are for an UPDATED version. I have printed version 2 in Green but decided to add a penny resin base. Happy with version one clamp to table, but decided I would like a weighted base for upcoming hull holder for fitting out. Version 1 with a different orientation can be found. https://www.prusaprinters.org/prints/55244-model-boat-keel-clamp No Gluing reqired unless you decide on the resin base.