Tabbed or Tab-less Winker Shells

Actuation is the key....

   Basically it depends on the style of actuation you would like. Or in other words, what type of connection linkage to the winkers you want inside the head. There are two basic styles. Connection to the winker shell directly or connection to the winker pivot. Below is a picture of a direct linkage connection.

   The above winker shells and picture are from Al Stevens Tutorial - The Fred Project. You can read more about this style of winker linkage and set up here. If you go to that page, click on 'Blinkers' on the left hand menu bar. Basically the brass rod is glued with epoxy to the winker shell which provides a suitable connection. Below is a picture of a connection to the winker pivots (click on picture to enlarge).

   The above picture was without the winker shells for clarity. You will see between the eyes, two brass actuator arms which are soldered to the brass rod winker pivot. A very strong connection. Below is a picture of the tab-less winker shells installed on the same winker frame as above, but inside a finished head, and all connections made. (Click to enlarge)

   The above picture shows how the tab-less winker shells can make raising eyebrow mechanisms easier to install, as they do not have any tabs in the way. There are some types of raising eyebrow configurations where this is not a problem, but it surely can be a difficulty with a number of raising eyebrow set ups.

   So which style should you get? It becomes a personal decision, but this information is here to help you make an informed decision.

   The direct connection style made with tabbed winker shells is easier for first time builders. You simply drill a hole in the shell tab and glue the connection linkage with epoxy basically. If you will be installing raising eyebrows, you need to plan ahead so that the winker shell tab does not hit that mechanism.

   The pivot connection style made with the tab-less winker shells is a stronger connection as it is brass stock soldered to a brass rod. But you need to have the proper soldering materials, equipment and maybe learn a new skill (mechanical soldering is a little different than electrical soldering, but not that hard to learn). You can also use a simple cord actuation with this style, which is quiet and easy to install.

   The bottom line then is deciding which style you prefer and what you will be comfortable doing. Different building styles will use different skill sets.