Step by step

Step 1

After carefully marking out the parts, use a saw to cut them to size. You can tape multiple plywood parts together and cut in one go so that they match each other. If you have access to a band saw or jigsaw you could save some time here.

Step 2

With your main parts cut, drill holes in the plywood parts first, then line them up with the axles. Place your tripod on top to check size. Mark through the holes to find out where to drill into the axles. Do this, then assemble the timber and plywood parts.

Step 3

Make the steering ‘box’. It’s held together with 25mm woodscrews inserted through the plywood plates into the axle and front blocks. A piece of studding provides a pivot. Use Nylock nuts and washers and make sure it turns smoothly but is not wobbly.

Step 4

Cut lengths of studding for the axles using a hacksaw. Allow enough for a nut and washer either side of the wheel, plus about 50mm to be glued inside the wood. File the ends of the studding so that they aren’t sharp and the nuts fit on nicely.

Step 5

Check that the wheels spin freely without wobbling. Use epoxy resin to glue each axle in, taking care not to get any glue on the moving parts. If the wheel needs to be removed later on, you should be able to simply undo the outer nut.

Step 6

Once the tripod foot plates and jack blocks are screwed into position, drill through both for the studding. An enlarged hole on the underside gives you room to glue in a captive nut (normal type). Use a Nylock nut (or a wooden disc) to make the upper turning knob.