How do you stabilize your amp chassis?

[NBJ]

Hi,
First time builder and I'm taking my time. I'm ready to wire the heaters on my 50 watt kit.

I would like to know how other builders stabilize their chassis and hold it at a good angle for doing their work once the transformers are in. It isn't easy to balance and I figure there has to be a better way.

Thanks to those of you who have given me suggestions already. I'd like to hear from others as well.

Thanks,

Nick

[lcampz]

...very carefully!!

I'm sure an "amp cradle" has already been recommended. I always wind up spending that money on more components/tubes, etc.

I'm sure you're doing all of your heater wire twisting outside of the chasis. Anyway, I find that as long as the PT and OT are in, there is enough weight on that end of the chasis to keep it from tipping the other way. With a laydown PT, I just put the handle end of a pair of plyers underneath the PT to level it a bit. With a standup PT, I put the plyers (or shim/small book) underneath the OT. From there... ...I just try to be really careful, especially if the tubes are in! What I don't use are boxes or blocks on the edges or ledges of the chasis. That elevates the center of gravity and seems like an accident waiting to happen. ...just my 2 cents...

[demonufo]

My method - spare PT wedged under the other end of the chassis!

Seriously, I must buy/make an amp cradle!

[Mars Hall]

I made an amp cradle out of a 2x4. I cut the bottom piece the same length as the chassis minus the mounting plates on each end. Then attached two shorter pieces to each end, creating a "C". The mounting plates set on the ends of the short pieces, in the open side of the "C". Be sure to make the end pieces long enough to accomodate the trannies and tubes without bottoming out. Cutting the end pieces too long will make it top heavy. Simple and crude but effective.