Follow up/clarification to DT fit query

[john moorhead]

Folks -

I should have been more precise... A gentle fit would be logical, I guess the real question is how can one easily determine which pin/tail combo is hanging up the joint.

I have cut four compound corners for a cradle. The head end has a 14" long joint and the foot end is about 12". I have all of the pins and tails cut and some of them fit okay, but the joint still is hanging up on a couple of tight pin/tail combos. I have eyeballed it as best I can and pared a bit much off of some of the other joints (Yes, I knew it was a slippery slope). I guess my issue is that with a compound joint if the angle is off even a bit between the two, you're hosed. I cut the pins first then used a marking knife to mark out the tails. In dealing with an angle only across 3/4" it may not be as accurate as it needed to be.

I don't want to cut the openings for base of the pins out to loosen the joint if I can avoid it, because that all is purdy darn square.

Nonetheless, I don't think I am *that* far off on my angles, but am wondering if there is an easier way to determine which part of the joint is causing interference.

I have taken a mess of pictures and will post on abpw as soon as I finish the roll. The future occupant, my great Nephew, Cody MacLaughlin Banks, is due verrrrrrry soon....

TIA,

John

[Bob S.]

John,

Old tried and true method. You will need some regular chalk of a contrasting color so you can see it, a small artist brush and a hammer. Mash the chalk to make a fine dust, use the brush to apply the chalk dust to either the pins or the tails - but not both.

Tap the DT joints together and then pull them apart. The chalk will mark the high spots on the side that was not coated with chalk. Pare the high spots down, retest. Works like a champ.

Bob S.