A Handy Holder for the Gaugemaster Combi Controller - easy to use and fit

FAQ – Product FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions – Gaugemaster Combi Controller Caddy Holder

What is this caddy holder designed for?

This caddy holder is designed specifically for the Gaugemaster Combi controller. It provides a neat, dedicated place to keep your controller on shelf layouts, dioramas or other setups, and makes it easy to move the controller between different layouts.

Does the caddy block any of the controller’s buttons or legends?

No. The cutout is shaped so that all the legends, buttons and switches on the Gaugemaster Combi remain completely unobstructed, allowing you to see and operate everything as normal.

Is the controller included with the caddy?

No. The Gaugemaster Combi controller shown in photos is for illustration only and is not included with the caddy holder.

What materials are included in the kit?

The kit includes precision laser-cut parts for the caddy and a green felt liner to give the controller a snug, soft fit. The felt is used as a backing inside the holder.

Can I use this caddy on multiple layouts?

Yes. Many of us reuse the same Gaugemaster Combi and caddy on several layouts. The caddy keeps the controller in a consistent position, so swapping between shelf or diorama setups is straightforward.

Can the caddy be painted or finished?

Yes. The kit can be painted if you wish. You can match it to your layout fascia, baseboard edges or workshop colours to help it blend in or stand out as you prefer.

How is the caddy assembled?

The caddy is supplied as a simple kit. The precision laser-cut parts are designed to be glued together with a small amount of wood glue. Dry-fit the pieces first to understand the layout, then glue and clamp or hold until the joints are secure.

What type of glue should I use?

A standard wood glue (PVA) is recommended for assembly. Apply a thin, even layer to the mating surfaces, press together firmly and allow the glue to dry fully before fitting the controller.

How is the felt liner installed?

The green felt backing is supplied loose so you can fit it after assembly. Typically you will:

• Assemble and fully dry the caddy.
• Test-fit the controller to see where contact points are.
• Cut or position the felt so it lines the inside surfaces where the controller sits.
• Fix the felt in place with a suitable adhesive if desired, keeping it smooth and flat.

How do I mount the caddy to my layout or workbench?

The caddy has two holes so it can be screwed to a surface of your choice. Position it where you want the controller, mark the holes, drill pilot holes if needed, and use appropriate screws for your baseboard, fascia or bench material.

Can I use the caddy without screwing it down?

Yes, you can simply place the assembled caddy on a flat surface if you prefer not to screw it down. However, fixing it with screws gives a more secure, permanent position, especially on busy operating sessions.

The controller feels loose in the caddy. What should I check?

First, make sure the felt backing is fitted correctly and covers the contact areas where the controller rests. If it still feels loose, check that all joints are fully glued and square. A slightly thicker layer of felt or an extra piece in key spots can help achieve a snug fit.

The controller seems too tight or hard to remove. How can I adjust it?

Check that the felt has not been doubled up in one area or wrinkled. You can trim back the felt slightly or reposition it so the controller slides in and out smoothly while still being supported. Avoid forcing the controller into the caddy.

The caddy feels wobbly after mounting. What might be wrong?

Ensure that:

• The screws are fully tightened and appropriate for your mounting surface.
• The surface is flat and not warped.
• The caddy is assembled squarely and not twisted before mounting.

If needed, loosen the screws, adjust the position, then retighten evenly.

The glue joints look weak or have gaps. How can I fix this?

If you notice gaps or weak joints, remove the controller and felt, then carefully run a small bead of wood glue along the inside corners and let it soak in. Wipe away excess and allow it to dry fully. For large gaps, you may need to gently separate the parts, reapply glue and clamp them until set.

The felt is peeling away. How do I secure it better?

Use a suitable adhesive for fabric-to-wood, applied sparingly so it does not soak through the felt. Press the felt firmly into place and allow it to dry under light pressure. Make sure the inside surfaces are clean and dust-free before re-gluing.

Do I need to sand the parts before assembly?

Light sanding is optional but can be helpful. A quick pass with fine sandpaper on the edges removes any small laser-cut tabs or soot marks and can improve glue adhesion. Take care not to change the fit of the joints.

What kind of paint should I use?

Most hobby paints suitable for wood will work, such as acrylic model paints. Apply thin coats and allow each coat to dry before the next. Avoid heavy, thick layers around the cutout so you do not reduce the space for the controller.

Should I paint before or after assembly?

You can do either, but many modellers assemble first, then paint. Assembling first ensures the joints are strong and not compromised by paint. If you paint before assembly, keep glue areas free of paint so the wood glue can bond properly.

How do I protect the felt while painting?

It is best to paint the caddy before fitting the felt. If the felt is already installed, mask it carefully with tape and paper so paint does not soak into it. Remove the masking only when the paint is fully dry.

Can I customise the caddy to match my layout?

Yes, that is half the fun. You can paint it to match your fascia, add labels for different controllers or layouts, or even weather it slightly so it blends in with a well-used control panel. Just keep the cutout and inside surfaces smooth so the controller still fits comfortably.