Docking kraken?

[GoSlash27]

I began assembling my first space station last night and everything was going well until I attempted to plug the first 2 modules together.

The clamp-o-trons connected, but it was loose and flimsy (both modules oscillated around like they were roped together instead of clamped). When I disconnected from the second module, the whole thing flew apart. Both modules were thrown into degrading orbits.

Each module was 5t or less and I was using standard clamp-o-trons.

Is this a kraken I can expect to encounter often? Is it something I'm doing wrong? Poor angle on the connection, or too much weight for the COT?

Thanks!

-Slashy

Edited May 26, 2014 by GoSlash27

[Tex]

As always, pictures are a must for this type of situation. If you have any, post them, or if you do not, either get some or post the craft file so our group of experienced rocket monkeys can tinker with the design

Also, are you running any mods? Mods can sometimes affect the behavior of certain parts or game mechanics if there is a problem with the mod. For the time being, backup your files, temporarily delete your mods, and try using the craft in a stock environment and see if that changes anything.

[Claw]

Yeah, if you could post pictures or a craft file.

It's possible you might have something clipped together. Or if there is something in the way between the docking modules, it will get "pinched" when the ports dock. A stuck part like that can cause the ship to fly apart.

Also, if your craft is long and put together with flexible parts, torque modules can also cause them to wobble and fly apart.

[GoSlash27]

I'm running stock KSP. No mods or add- ons. And unfortunately it all happened so fast I didn't get a chance to take any pics.

FWIW, I re-ran the mission and it docked together fine, so maybe it was just a one- time thing?

Thanks,

-Slashy

[Claw]

Glad it's okay now.

Just FYI, pictures of the explosion (while entertaining) aren't as helpful as pictures of the ship causing problems. Some people have a good eye for spotting problem areas in pictures. Just makes it a little easier to point and say "there's your problem."

And sometimes these things "just happen."

[Tex]

Yep, no need for screenshots of the event itself, just pictures of the craft would be nice for times like these. Glad to hear it's okey-dokey now!

[GoSlash27]

Yeah, I think it was either a one time thing or else a case of ham-fisting my approach. I've plugged 4 modules onto my station since then and haven't had any problem.

I'm gonna tag this thread "answered".

Thanks all!,

-Slashy