Bag & Tag and Favorite Pit Layout/Furniture/Tools

[R.C.]

Originally Posted by Ninja_Bait

NASA can be slow at times, and if you're not super-clear with your instructions, they make mistakes. But they're good enough so that you don't bring a bandsaw... or just use a hacksaw instead! It's my favorite tool.

You do need a lot of space though, so bringing a cheap shelving unit can help you get a lot of storage space in a small footprint. I also like having a laptop in the pit so people who are there can watch matches. Don't forget spare parts and battery chargers, either.

The NASA machine shop has been awesome in all our experiences, we normally have printed them out a drawing (since we have the cad for all of our parts).

It prevents confusion and a properly tolerance drawing should help them versus a person telling them what needs to be done. We can't thank NASA enough for their support.

-RC

[Ninja_Bait]

I'm always careful to be perfectly clear about what we need machined when I drop off requests, and I'm always satisfied. On the other hand, I have seen a few awful creations come out of that truck, but I wouldn't be surprised if our poor experience with NASA has just been caused by incompetence on our part.

Still, just use a hacksaw.

[Jon Stratis]

It doesn't have to be pretty, it just has to work. Often a drill, hammer, and hacksaw are really all you need to get something working in the pits!

[Cynette]

Since our crate had been an integral part of 1511's pit layout we did a major pit revamping and for the end of the year designed our MPT - Multi-Purpose Thingy.

It is a shelving unit that is sized to match plastic storage totes of various sizes. We put matching identifiers on the totes and the shelves so items get returned to the proper storage locations. Some of the totes are designed to be grab and go, like the drive train box - containing everything you will need to repair or replace a broken drive train. This comes in handy when other teams need help of a specific nature. When MPT is in the pit, it gives us flat surfaces to work, plain surfaces to hang posters or pit decorations. When it returns to our shop, it acts as a storage unit in our closet.

[Foster]

Since there is no crate area needed at the MAR events, I'm checking into the availability of portable spa/hot tubs for the events. That bump and run slam by MOE got you down? Come soak your problems away. Miss Daisy introduced you to an Angry Mother Nature? Come float a few moments in our warm, soothing bubbles.

So long crate, hello Hot Tub!! Thanks FIRST!

[Ninja_Bait]

Reminds me of this...