Peterbilt 6x6 Medium Hauler

[Tommy R]

Hey y'all,

I've always wanted to build a Tamiya semi truck. They're just so cool looking and I've been a fan of big rigs since I was a kid (maaaaany moons ago!). I've spent hours and hours watching those incredible expos in Europe where people build and drive their amazingly detailed trucks through scale cities, but sadly, it doesn't seem to be very popular here in the States. :cry: So that means if I were to build a semi truck, I would likely have to run it with my crawler buddies. Now I know converting one of these trucks to all wheel drive will absolutely NOT make it a crawler. However, I should be able to do mild trails with it and honestly, that's all I care about for this truck.

So which one to buy? The Euro cabover trucks like the Scania, Mercedes, and Volvo look fantastic, but all the front overhang and such a short wheelbase would combine to make an already ill-performing offroader nearly useless in our terrain. I would really need something with a slightly longer wheelbase and minimal front overhang. So I looked into the US trucks like the Globe Liner, King Hauler, Aeromax, Grand Hauler, etc. Some had a wheelbase that was just too long so they got ruled out. I also figured this truck would have a bit of a "heavy hauler" or "construction" type look so that ruled out the trucks with tall sleeper cabs. That left me with the Globe Liner and the King Hauler. And since I won't go full bore "heavy hauler", I felt calling it a "medium hauler" was appropriate.

And after months of researching them and what it would take to make them all wheel drive, I opted for the King Hauler. The longer cab would likely give more options for drivetrain and the mandatory sound system! :mrgreen: Tower Hobbies hooked me up with a generous gift code and I already had a gift certificate so they got the order. Three days later....

BAM!
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-ZRQzBJj/0/XL/IMG_7249-XL.jpg

The first order of business is to do a stock 6x4 build with RWD only. It's crazy, but after being in the hobby since the '80s this will be my first Tamiya build! I can't believe they still use philips screws, but oh well. Once it's built I plan to convert it to a 6x6 and I'm still trying to decide which method I want to follow because there are plenty of options! I also figured I'll do some bodywork during this time. Since the King Hauler isn't really a Peterbilt or Kenworth or any other specific brand, I would like to put some effort into making it a Peterbilt. I'm not yet sure how far I plan to go with that, but it may include front fenders, a grill, and some badges. That would likely be all I'd consider, to be honest. Specifically, I'm after the look of a Peterbilt 359. Now let's build!!

Chassis all done!
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-4j89Hn9/0/XL/IMG_7250-XL.jpg

For the axles I had something in mind. I didn't want to fully lock the axles because I'd like the truck to have a reasonable turning radius on concrete. However, it needs a true 6 wheel drive to get anywhere and open diffs just won't cut it. So I decided to try an experiment with some Gravity RC 2.5 million weight diff grease. My hope is that offroad it will lock up enough to spin all the tires, but allow diff action when turning on grippy concrete. Time will tell if it works! Here's the goop going in.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-mxC4PZH/0/XL/IMG_7257-XL.jpg

Roller status!! I also installed a Savox 1256 servo for the steering. It's only got about 277 ounces, but I think that might be fine for this type of rig.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-zj9MbNZ/0/XL/IMG_7259-XL.jpg

Transmission coming together. I'll lock it into first gear for now, but eventually I'll have a servo to shift it.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-bRrs5cf/0/XL/IMG_7265-XL.jpg

Trans and an Integy 55t motor installed with the stock 10t pinion. I hear these things are way too fast with the stock gearing so I'll have to address that for sure.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-5ckDx8p/0/XL/IMG_7268-XL.jpg

Now the body and accessories. The base build is pretty much done. :D
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-mpMQM9r/0/XL/IMG_7278-XL.jpg

[Tommy R]

Check out that crazy articulation!! LOL
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-WDtmNRS/0/XL/IMG_7279-XL.jpg

My plan all along has been to run a Tamiya TLT front axle in this thing. Same gear ratio as the semi rear axles and a good width. They're increasingly more difficult to locate these days, but I found one on ebay and guess what arrived from Canada over the weekend? :D I gave it the same treatment as I did for the rear axles.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-tQhvpS4/0/XL/IMG_7301-XL.jpg

Then I greased up the gears, along with a coating on everything else in there to prevent rust since it may see some light water crossings.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-ShDN4DB/0/XL/IMG_7302-XL.jpg

And so much for an assembled truck! I yanked the front axle so I could figure out how I want to attach the TLT axle.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-FWxcJXH/0/XL/IMG_7304-XL.jpg

I am now at a crossroads. I need to determine how to mount the TLT to the leafs. The stock leaf spring has no holes in it. That would mean I'd need to drill two holes in order to attach it to the axle. Not sure how well this steel will drill since I suspect it may be spring steel? I also have Hi Lift springs, which has three holes in it. I may look into installing it, but am not sure if it will be stiff enough to support the weight of this truck. If anyone has thoughts or suggestions, I'm all ears!

Lastly, I still need to determine my transfer case choice, as well as my gear reduction method. But whatever I choose, it's looking more and more like I'll need to run the TLT upside down.....or maybe run my rear axles upside down if that's easy enough to do. Haven't looked into that yet, though. Again, any input is appreciated, but I've giving strong consideration to this transmission/transfer case:
1/14 rc car truck for tamiya 2 position 2wd/4WD Metal Transmission Planetary gear box (http://www.wtbcar.com/shopping/index.php?route=product/product&path=20&product_id=203)
http://www.wtbcar.com/shopping/image/cache/data/parts/201301/vjvjhv-600x600.jpg

[trucker n]

to mount front axle use the leaf springs from the hilift truck they have the holes in them:D

[Lil Giants]

I drilled my leaf springs, a good quality bit no problem. Did one hole at a time, bolting it in place as I proceeded, managed to keep everything straight. :)

Two trks this way, years later & many scale miles, everything still intact.

[Tommy R]

As luck would have it, I had purchased a set of Hi Lift springs YEARS ago for a project, but never used them! Sure enough, the outer holes of the springs line up well with two of the holes of the TLT, which is great. However, I assumed I would need to drill through the axle housing to secure the springs to the housing, but I just threaded in some screws and was surprised to feel how strong it felt!

Could it really be this easy? These are the longest screws I felt comfortable using. I think the screw was close to bottoming out in the hole.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-LkxLrts/0/XL/IMG_7307-XL.jpg

The screws are pretty short, but the spring really feels secure in there! If this holds, I would just need to slightly space out the leaf spring hangers and shackles from the chassis since the TLT's spring mounts are a little wider tha than the stock axle.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-GC97ZXx/0/XL/IMG_7308-XL.jpg

[Tommy R]

to mount front axle use the leaf springs from the hilift truck they have the holes in them:D

I drilled my leaf springs, a good quality bit no problem. Did one hole at a time, bolting it in place as I proceeded, managed to keep everything straight. :)

Two trks this way, years later & many scale miles, everything still intact.

Thanks, fellas! Good to know I can drill out the leafs if I need to. Last time I tried that, I was drilling through a lawn mower recoil spring and maybe my bits were old, but it didn't drill worth a darn. :(

Now I just need to determine what kind of transfer case I want to use to determine the orientation of the front axle.

[Tommy R]

Before mounting it up, I measured the side-to-side spacing of the stock leaf springs is 74mm. The TLT's spacing is 79mm. So I'd need to space the leaf spring hangers and shackles out 2.5mm per side. I just used some 2mm spacers because that's what I had.

Front (hanger): I'd like some longer screws here. Not too confident in the lack of thread engagement, but I lack the proper screws at the moment.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-cQVBZ83/0/XL/IMG_7312-XL.jpg

Rear (shackle):
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-knHCJJn/0/XL/IMG_7313-XL.jpg

And installed! I'm just using 6mm long screws (4 total), but the axle really feels secure. That could be sufficient, but I will likely drill all the way through it for a little more peace of mind.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-sQr4K4W/0/XL/IMG_7311-XL.jpg

[Stuff]

Looking good! :D

[roadranger]

I'm also building up an off road construction semi and found the following Utubes useful;

For spacing out the springs on TLT or F350 front axle;all the parts come from an included kit parts sprue.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XW_bbuxocVI&index=10&list=PLm0lSVDlFnTs93hjulBQteXToZiELTMwW

This one shows road speed with the transmission/transfer box before and after using a gear reducer between the 55T motor and the transmission to slow down the truck more;
You'll need to mount your trans. far enough to the rear to fit the gear reduction in position. You WILL need this GRU if you want to run with your crawler buddies…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=osZCH4GJTXc&list=PLm0lSVDlFnTs93hjulBQteXToZiELTMwW&index=9


For even MORE tandem axle articulation, remove the shocks. But then there might be too much articulation that will let the stock inter-axle dog bone fall out,
and the dog bone will need to be replaced with an aftermarket driveshaft.

You could also go with aftermarket $$$ servo controlled locking axles if that super grease doesn't work out...

[Tommy R]

Hey, I know that guy! LOL Yes, Dean's videos have been very helpful, but I hadn't seen the one with the gear reduction installed. Thanks!!

[Tommy R]

Well. That escalated quickly. Sold the stock wheels/tires and removed the body to do some work to it while I wait on the new wheel/tires to arrive.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-279LHKD/0/XL/IMG_7317-XL.jpg

[ScottLay]

looks good Tommy.

[Tommy R]

I was asked on another forum what my plan is for wheels/tires. Here was my reply....

Here's what I'm getting. These are the rear Lesu tires:
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-M4wCXG8/0/O/LM-S1212S_1.jpg

Here's the wide fronts:
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-mwvqSBS/0/O/LM-S1212W_1.jpg

Rear wheels:
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-FJvvGxm/0/O/LM-W-2012.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-nJTvNPV/0/O/LM-W-2012_1.jpg

Front wheels: Gotta make sure to order the correct ones because standard fronts use bearings/bushings, not a 12mm hex drive like I'm used to!
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-srqcxj4/0/O/LM-W-2041-A.jpg

What it looks like installed. It's the closest I could get to the look I was after without spending an absolute fortune!
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-jQ7Q4tm/0/O/W-2042_2.jpg

[Tommy R]

looks good Tommy.

Thanks, Scott! :)

[Tommy R]

Trying to visualize the final product. I plan to keep it with a 5th wheel. I'll eventually pick up a flatbed trailer for it and I plan to challenge it with hauling heavy loads of bricks and such across various terrain. I can also put drifters on it when we're have a drift event. :D I'm going to make it like a nice looking, well cared for truck that isn't quite a "heavy hauler", but is designed to haul just about anything.....anywhere. Hence the driven front axle. I may also consider building a removable flatbed for it.

For the final product, imagine a mix/match of these trucks:
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-HnpV6c5/0/O/58650d556d778910f5122994.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-2d4bfGx/0/S/DSCN2017-S.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-r9kV4bG/0/M/AugClint1-M.jpg

[Lil Giants]

Your tie rod should be behind the axle or it's not going to steer very well, nor very sharp.

[Tommy R]

Thanks for the heads up. I haven't started working on the steering yet, but I appreciate the input!

[Tommy R]

I was trying to decide how far I wanted to go to make this look like a Peterbilt. Well, I guess I decided. :D
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-qBnNtBF/0/L/IMG_7325-L.jpg

My string method for cutting styrene needs a little help, but whatever. :p At a minimum, I plan to fill in the front fenders to make them smooth and maybe go with this grill/light assembly. It's a bit pricey, but I like the look. Hmm.....I wonder how LEDs/wires would look with this setup? :confused:
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-Dwm63N7/0/O/s-l500%20%282%29.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-QHJXmxV/0/O/s-l500%20%281%29.jpg

What I now need to decide is if I want to just stop there or if I want to just replace the fenders altogether. I've never bought anything from Shapeways, but these look rather promising. Curious if this may be easier than filling in the headlights and marker light openings on top of the fenders. Does anyone have experience with these or other fenders from Shapeways??
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-DpVKDxh/0/O/625x465_9544441_6770917_1459354305.png

[TRUCKMAKER]

If you haven't decided on a transfer case, take a look at an Axial transmission. Remove the motor plate and do a little modification to the input shaft and it gives about a 3:1 reduction, its also less expensive than most t-cases available.

[Tommy R]

Thanks! I believe I have an Axial trans that I could use. My concern is that the front driveshaft will be all into the transmission and that I would need to raise the transmission to clear it. I'm hoping to keep my interior intact with minimal hacking. I suppose I could raise it while not having to cut into the dash area, but not sure if that would be enough. If so, I'd consider it! It would definitely be cheaper! Pretty sure the Axial trans is 2.6:1 so I'd likely still get a 2:1 bolt-on reducer up front, as well. But still, that's way cheaper than the other options!

I definitely want to keep a multi-speed trans, though. And I like the idea of having a 3 speed where first gear will be for suuuuuper slow speed crawling. Most normal putting around would be in 2nd gear. 3rd gear would be used for those rare occasions where a walking pace would be required. I don't have a need or desire to go any faster than that! :)

[huber1918]

Awesome Build! Cannot wait to see the progress! Gives me some ideas for my Globe Liner.

[TRUCKMAKER]

Check out posts 42-44 in the link below to see what I did, if you look close you'll see that I took the lower rear case screw off the transmission. You will have clearance issues if you don't lift the trans mission which will be the case with any t-case you use. I'm not a fan of the Tamiya 3 spd due to its space sucking size, so this one is going away soon. You might also notice the spring pack on my steer axle :D. The extra height was in my favor but not so much in yours.

http://www.rctruckandconstruction.com/showthread.php?t=9138&page=3

[scottyk]

That ride height addition is what turned me off from doing the 6x6 on my Mack build :(

Yours is looking very good! Nice work man

[Tommy R]

Awesome Build! Cannot wait to see the progress! Gives me some ideas for my Globe Liner.

Thanks! :)

Check out posts 42-44 in the link below to see what I did, if you look close you'll see that I took the lower rear case screw off the transmission. You will have clearance issues if you don't lift the trans mission which will be the case with any t-case you use. I'm not a fan of the Tamiya 3 spd due to its space sucking size, so this one is going away soon. You might also notice the spring pack on my steer axle :D. The extra height was in my favor but not so much in yours.

http://www.rctruckandconstruction.com/showthread.php?t=9138&page=3

I see what you mean about raising the tranny. Looks like clearance for the driveshaft would still be tight at full bump, but I won't be jumping this thing so maybe that's not a big deal. Ha! Do you have any more pics of how you put together your front suspension? Is that a TLT in there? :)

That ride height addition is what turned me off from doing the 6x6 on my Mack build :(

Yours is looking very good! Nice work man

Thanks! :) I'm trying to keep the ride height within reason, but fully expect it to be noticeably taller than a stocker. I'm thinking maybe 3/4" or so, but the Lesu tires may be taller which may raise it more. Not really sure how their diameters compare to the stock Tamiya tires.

[Tommy R]

Didn't have much time to mess with the truck until this evening and when I did I decided to focus on my gear reduction and transfer case solution. First things first I looked into how the tranny is going to interfere with a front driveshaft. Obviously, that's definitely got to be addressed! :D
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-3Nt28Vd/0/XL/IMG_7341-XL.jpg

I think I've narrowed down my drivetrain choices to these:
1. Use an Axial 2.6:1 trans as a transfer case and possibly a 2:1 planetary gear reduction in front of the Tamiya transmission.
2. Use a planetary gear reduction (probably 2:1) and add a t-case like the 2.18:1 RC4WD Disruptor or the 2:1 t-case from wtbcar.com:
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-nnv4LMk/0/S/TFCB01-S.jpg https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-GpXF97S/0/S/c041a-600x600-S.jpg

In either of these solutions, the stock Tamiya tranny needs to be raised up fairly substantially....for two reasons. As mentioned, the tranny will prevent a driveshaft from reaching the front axle, but the 2:1 planetary will hit the steering/shifting servos because it'll push the motor forward. My best guess shows a height of 15-20mm is needed. Here's a rough approximation of the height required:
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-3BZFnZ5/0/XL/IMG_7344-XL.jpg

The floor will need to be trimmed, but I'm okay with that. I can always just build a simple cover for it so the trans is hidden from sight. My first estimation of where it'll need to be cut (everything within the white markings).
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-7rL4zMZ/1/XL/IMG_7343-XL.jpg

So before I order some standoffs I made some temporary 15mm spacers to see how that would work.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-t9sR2gd/0/XL/IMG_7346-XL.jpg

Driveshaft clearance should be okay with the trans raised 15mm, especially since the trans output will be fairly low.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-S6B4DvD/0/XL/IMG_7349-XL.jpg

Front view showing the height of the motor compared to the servo. It'll be reeeeally tight, but I can easily add a few more millimeters of spacers if need be.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-3hjnPFg/0/XL/IMG_7348-XL.jpg

Thinking this is what I'll need to cut away to accommodate the new trans height.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-H5C6HjF/0/XL/IMG_7351-XL.jpg

So now I need to decide what to do about the transfer case. I have an Axial trans so that's the cheapest solution. I'll just have to fab up a bracket for it. And it'll definitely get the outputs low enough to clear the stock trans. The wtbcar.com t-case looks like it would bolt in after drilling a couple holes so that'd be super easy, but it would cost me ~$50 and time to wait for shipping from (presumably) China. Not sure I'm patient enough to do that. Ha!

[Tommy R]

Axial transmission (all metal internals, of course) ready to be used for the new t-case. I just need to trim off the excess on the input shaft.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-G3h9bpH/0/XL/IMG_7353-XL.jpg

[TRUCKMAKER]

Did you give a thought to moving the motor transmission assembly forward? If it'll still clear the hood it would give you more room for the drive shaft and less material to remove from the floor. Doesn't look like you need to go up but a bit to clear the servo.

[Tommy R]

Ooh, good idea! Thanks! Here's a quick mock up keeping the trans at 15mm higher, but moved forward. Not sure how far forward I can go if I run a gear reduction like I was planning, but it would definitely safe some interior cutting!
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-wWvFPfX/0/XL/IMG_7354-XL.jpg

As shown, it looks like it would protrude about half as far back into the interior.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-cTgVbh7/0/XL/IMG_7356-XL.jpg

What I also need to consider is where the speaker box will go. Don't most people run the speaker just behind the grill? If so, moving the trans up/forward will kill my space. I need to look into my options for speaker placement.

FYI, I don't know that I'll go with an MFU from Tamiya. While that would be great, I may opt to save some money and go with an alternative sound generator. As always I'm open to suggestions, but was most seriously considering this one:
https://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/Tamiya-Truck-Engine-Sound-Module-For-Scania-620-470/347552_1413729518.html

[TRUCKMAKER]

Speaker locations on these things are a personal thing depending on cab configuration and what all else you want to cram in there. One thing you need to watch when moving that tranny forward is where it is in relation to the front axle, ie so the axle itself doesn't get into the bottom of the tranny ;) Isn't custom building these things fun:lol::D

[Tommy R]

LOL! Yessir! I'm keeping the tranny just far enough back to prevent any unwanted contact. :lol:

Got the rear wheels in the mail today! Only issue is that I don't have a hex driver small enough to fit the nuts to secure the wheels to the hub. The Tamiya multi-tool is too short to reach down in there. I'm guessing it's a 4mm or 4.5mm hex? Anyone know for sure? FYI, these are Lesu wheels.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-8bxs6L5/0/XL/IMG_7357-XL.jpg

[blitzk]

Hey Tommy R, I bought these sound units before and they look the same but a bit cheaper if you are interested.http://www.rcbrmin.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=103&products_id=786

[Tommy R]

Hey Tommy R, I bought these sound units before and they look the same but a bit cheaper if you are interested.http://www.rcbrmin.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=103&products_id=786

Thank you for that! I see it says not to use a LiPo, though. What kind of battery do you run?

[Tommy R]

So whichever transfer case I end up with, I'm pretty sure I'm going to need a gear reduction. Using an Axial trans/t-case and a 2:1 gear reduction unit (GRU) would get me to 5.2:1 reduction over a stock setup. That's pretty darn low, but not sure if it'd be TOO low. However, I can't locate any 2:1 GRUs. Closest I can find is a 3:1 unit. It's cheap so I went ahead and ordered it.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-ZrM5xVB/0/O/41VgogKH36L.jpg

Doesn't look to add much length to the motor.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-Fhj9mfV/0/O/41EU8tVKYkL.jpg

Now I'm thinking the Axial t-case may be too low so I may consider a unit with a little taller ratio like 2:1. I have several options. I'm open to suggestions from those of you who've geared down your trucks. Knowing I plan to take this thing offroad and pull reasonably heavy loads with it, what kind of overall gear reduction should I look for? 3:1? 5:1? 7:1? :confused:

[TRUCKMAKER]

Im running a 55T through the Tamiya 3 spd into the Axial trans as my my t-case no other reduction. Plenty of climbing power loaded, empty in sand dirt whatever, works fine.

[Tommy R]

That's great to know, thanks! I guess the next order of business is to relocate the motor/tranny and then figure out the t-case placement. I'll also have to start looking into driveshaft options.

[TRUCKMAKER]

Check this out:

http://www.rctruckandconstruction.com/showthread.php?t=708

I use K&S brass tube which is an easier fit than the aluminum tube, but the rest is the same.

[Tommy R]

Ooh, great idea! Today I had to go to the hobby store to get a 4mm hex driver so while I was there I picked up some 1/2" brass tube. Look forward to trying it out!

Speaking of that hex driver, it allowed me to finally put together my new rear wheels Love 'em!
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-K6DgrxD/0/XL/IMG_7372-XL.jpg

[blitzk]

I've just been using a Nicd 7.2v battery pack so far on the one truck I have it installed in.
Next time I get home, I will try a Lipo on it and let you know. Probably won't be home for about a month, though.

[Tommy R]

I've just been using a Nicd 7.2v battery pack so far on the one truck I have it installed in.
Next time I get home, I will try a Lipo on it and let you know. Probably won't be home for about a month, though.

That could be an issue for me because all I've run for years are LiPos. No more NiCd or NiMH for me. Worst case I suppose I could run a LiPo through a voltage converter to drop the voltage to an acceptable level for the sound module, but it'd be nice if that wasn't necessary.

On a side note, my Shapeways front fenders shipped today! Can't wait to see how they look. I guess it's time to do some more bodywork..... :o

[Tommy R]

Since the fenders are on the way, I decided that I may as well start on the one thing that I've been dreading......bodywork. I'm okay with styrene, but it's been awhile since I've done any detail work with the stuff. And in an effort to make it as easy as possible to replace the hood sides I wanted nice, square cuts and edges. Eventually, I decided to just jump on in and make it happen.

I decided to remove the fenders first to make it easier to cut by the cowl area. First I outlined the cut areas with a thin Sharpie marker. Then I used string to cut through the fenders and removed them.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-Zs74kGS/0/XL/IMG_7376-XL.jpg

Next I measured the styrene of the body to be .060" (1.5mm) thick so I used my calipers and scribed a line at the .060" mark. Applying black ink beforehand made it easier to see. Then I used the string method to cut along the line as carefully as I could. Came out rather clean! That's encouraging!
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-F7SqcMd/0/XL/IMG_7378-XL.jpg

Now with the fenders removed I was able to use my razor saw to get nice, straight lines along the cowl and the horizontal line near the top of the hood. Using a combination of sawing with the saw and scoring with the Xacto blade, I was eventually able to cut the sides out. Honestly, it went quite a bit smoother than I expected.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-cQm9Jzs/0/XL/IMG_7379-XL.jpg

They look nice and square to me! Mocking up an uncut piece of styrene confirmed my suspicion: nice and square. Good stuff! :D
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-z5S9Kx8/0/XL/IMG_7381-XL.jpg

An update on other components....

The front wheels and all the tires should arrive to the States any day now. The posts to raise the motor/trans will be here Saturday along with a bunch of hardware in my goal to replace as much Philips head hardware as possible! And I was able to cancel my order for the 3:1 reduction unit. Sweet! :)

I've got to pack for a camping/offroading trip this weekend so time is tight, but if I get some time I may try to bond the new, uncut hood sides to the KH. It still has a long way to go, but progress is progress!

[Tommy R]

Tiny update...

Wanting this styrene work to be plenty stout I decided to take a couple minutes and build some plates and bonded them to the OEM plastic. This will give me a nice, flat surface(s) to attach the new hood sides and it will provide a lot more strength. I'll wait to get the fenders in before I bond the new hood sides. The reason being I want to make one side and trim it to fit the new fenders and then will use it to make a template so both sides are as symmetric as possible.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-pf3hfQR/0/XL/IMG_7383-XL.jpg

Passenger side cut and mocked up.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-KRkcQkq/0/XL/IMG_7384-XL.jpg

[Tommy R]

Got my Shapeways fenders in over the weekend and they look nice! The finish will require some sanding, but I'm pleased. I can't determine final positioning of the fenders until my wheels/tires arrive, but I've begun mocking things up a bit.

Installing the TLT axle and the Hi Lift front springs moved the axle forward a bit. Technically speaking, it seems most 6x6 trucks have the front axle set back quite a bit from a standard RWD truck. Mine won't be set back that far because I'd like a bit better approach angle. It'll still look pretty accurate so I'm good with it.

I'm having a hard time determining what model Pete this most resembles. And it doesn't help that most 6x6 trucks are so tall that they have sloped hoods and mine won't. So I may be building a truck that has never existed? Really not sure. So if anyone has input on if this truck most closely resembles a 357, 359, 389, etc. please let me know! :)

Anyway, here's some mock up pics. Nevermind the wheel/tire choice for now, but does the fender placement look about right?
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-wnbKHNd/0/XL/IMG_7415-XL.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-DkfKLrV/0/XL/IMG_7416-XL.jpg

If I keep this placement, I'll add some styrene down below so the fender isn't left unsupported.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-6RRhWkJ/0/XL/IMG_7417-XL.jpg

[TRUCKMAKER]

Like you said wait until you have everything, If you were using what you have I'd say, based on the photos, you'd have to move the fenders back a bit so when you turn the tire doesn't get into the rear edge of the fender. Outside of that it looks good.

[Tommy R]

Well, the wait continues, unfortunately. I ordered my tires and front wheels from Stella on 1/20 and they shipped the same day. I chose Air Parcel over the cheapest shipping option in hopes I'd get it within a week or week and a half. I haven't seen an update since 1/23 and now have Stella looking into it. By the description I don't even know if it's left China or not. What a bummer! Anyway, moving on to other things....

So I got my 15mm spacers in from RC4WD. While I liked the new height of the transmission, they presented a problem. The transmission has a bulge by the shifter that is too wide to fit within the framerails. So I raised it a bit more (to 22mm) to get this bulge to reside inside the framerails better. Here's the spacers:
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-Bgd8nWr/0/XL/IMG_7465-XL.jpg

It's tough to see here, but if you look closely, the shifter area of the transmission is now inside the framerail and clears everything nicely.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-Kjz9Qv3/0/XL/IMG_7466-XL.jpg

Side view profile shot.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-93SBRDh/0/XL/IMG_7462-XL.jpg

And even with the dash installed there's clearance between the motor and the body.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-n7pS92K/0/XL/IMG_7461-XL.jpg

Looks like there will now be plenty of driveshaft clearance!
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-v4xtkdz/0/XL/IMG_7463-XL.jpg

Next up is one of my least favorite things to do: bodywork. I picked up some Squadron White Putty and am beginning to clean up the sunroof and the top antenna emboss.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-QCpLNsQ/0/XL/IMG_7464-XL.jpg

[porky69]

If you are going to use air cleaners that have the exposed rubber hoses going through the side of the hood it would give the appearance of a 359
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/49/e7/fa/49e7fad77ab0932f1eeaf4122cace58d.jpg

or possibly a 358 (basically a narrow hood ("needle-nose") version of the 359).http://images.fineartamerica.com/images-medium-large-5/1972-peterbilt-358-truck-5-dave-koontz.jpg

The 379, 357, 389 all have the air pipe from the air cleaners going directly into the side of the cowl.

How about changing the fenders and making a 353?

http://www.timstrucks.com/353SBFArightprofile.jpg

[Tommy R]

If you are going to use air cleaners that have the exposed rubber hoses going through the side of the hood it would give the appearance of a 359

or possibly a 358 (basically a narrow hood ("needle-nose") version of the 359).

The 379, 357, 389 all have the air pipe from the air cleaners going directly into the side of the cowl.

How about changing the fenders and making a 353?

Thanks for the info! I considered doing a body style like the 353, but I wanted a style more like the 359. I'm pretty sure a 6x6 359 never existed so my build won't be entirely realistic, but hopefully it'll still look nice.

It's funny you posted that first pic. I downloaded it as an example of a paint scheme I'm considering. It seems there's some common 2 tone paint schemes for these trucks. There's this one:
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-z7qmnzk/0/XL/9C41542F-7B1B-47CC-A156-29651D82C415-2132-0000015D2C27BD7A_tmp-XL.jpg

And there's this one (although this one is more customized):
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-rRdn66D/0/L/2017020219051189-IMG_7445-L.jpg

And of course some trucks have a painted chassis and fuel tanks/steps like this one:
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-wgbgWdg/0/O/A346072C-17F3-4B4A-A35F-6E6C78BE70AB-2132-0000015D9F3397BA_tmp.jpg

After doing a lot of research on color schemes and combinations, it looks like my truck will come out a lot like this, but with more purple:
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-HWxZLs5/0/O/1986-peterbilt-359-3406b-cat-15-sp-flattop-sleeper-swatrepo-181812714257-0.jpg

Found this one, too! Looks pretty cool and mine may come out somewhat similar in a lot of ways, but with 359 style fenders.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-NPbcgkM/0/O/07cf50529b7b21583f7da2d55c8dc8df.jpg

[porky69]

That's the neat part about building a class 8 type truck...every one of them is built to order so while some options may not be common does not mean that it was not available to everyone.

I wouldn't doubt that there are very few 359 6x6 out there but I am fairly confident they are out there.

[Tommy R]

That's the neat part about building a class 8 type truck...every one of them is built to order so while some options may not be common does not mean that it was not available to everyone.

I wouldn't doubt that there are very few 359 6x6 out there but I am fairly confident they are out there.

That's good enough for me! Thank you! :)

Now if only my wheels/tires would show up. Until then I can't mount my fenders or set ride heights. But I may be done with the bodywork. Just need to place a coat of primer on it to see how it looks.

[Tommy R]

Finally got around to swapping out a bunch of hardware for socket head stuff. I really don't like Phillips head hardware! I need to order more of certain sizes and some shoulder screws don't have a replacement so they'll remain, but overall, it should be much easier to work on and look way better, IMO.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-29kWJxQ/0/XL/IMG_7481-XL.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-spTHZNq/0/XL/IMG_7482-XL.jpg

And the bodywork on the top of the cab is looking pretty good. I think I may be done after one more round of light sanding.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-VGGBJmJ/0/XL/IMG_7483-XL.jpg

[Tommy R]

Trimmed the floorboard to accommodate the higher transmission location.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-bXsSd4X/0/XL/IMG_7484-XL.jpg

Had to remove the seat mounting holes and will need to trim the seat mounts, but no biggie. I'll just glue them in when the time comes.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-mBXFqV2/0/XL/IMG_7485-XL.jpg

Intrudes into the cabin, but if it's visible when the build is done I may just fab up a new floor to hide it.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-Nj85Tkf/0/XL/IMG_7486-XL.jpg

While test-fitting the body I noticed an issue. One of the reinforcing plates I added for the hood sides is interfering with the floor. I could've (and should've) Dremeled away some of the floor, but why not risk screwing up and having to do some more bodywork instead? LOL!
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-d8tnCHf/0/XL/IMG_7487-XL.jpg

Fortunately, I am one with my Dremel and no harm was done while making adequate clearance. :D
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-WtTjjRF/0/XL/IMG_7490-XL.jpg

And the Axial trans has now been "extensively modified" to be a transfer case! :)
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-bsQ6xW2/0/XL/IMG_7488-XL.jpg

[Tommy R]

Body work on the front fenders is done.....well, unless I decide to add some lights on top. Not sure about that just yet. It took several layers of filler primer and loads of sanding, but I'm pretty pleased with the result. The veritcal sides of the fenders are still rather rough, but I have no good way to sand those surfaces. Hopefully it won't be too obvious after paint and clear is applied....
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-KwnGSmq/0/XL/IMG_7524-XL.jpg

Sorted the steering, as well. Used a short Losi aluminum servo arm (I don't like using plastic bits) and put the tie rod under the knuckles. Bumpsteer is minimal and clearances under bump travel are good.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-stx78tL/0/XL/IMG_7526-XL.jpg

Took a file to the knuckles to get a bit more steering out of the TLT axle.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-8jV6NXR/0/XL/IMG_7528-XL.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-NTtst7p/0/XL/IMG_7529-XL.jpg

Ackerman looks pretty decent. My thumbs says hello!
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-cb3rw7d/1/XL/IMG_7530-XL.jpg

[nenard]

Wow !! fenders look great. What primer did you use?

[Tommy R]

Wow !! fenders look great. What primer did you use?

Thanks!! I just used some automotive filler primer I picked up from Advance Auto Parts. I'll see if I can get the manufacturer, but it wasn't anything special. But it did take about half a dozen rounds of priming/sanding to get it looking acceptable.

[Tommy R]

Since there have been no updates on the shipment of my tires and front wheels from Stella Models in Hong Kong, they suggested that I initiate a dispute via PayPal. On Friday I did just that and then ordered the same tires/wheels from Semi Joe. For the same overall cost I got it delivered in record time!! Great customer service and I'll remember that for sure.

All wheels/tires are made by Lesu. Pretty happy with them overall, except for a couple things.

Maybe I'm just used to crawlers, but these tires are hard! But that's probably okay because I plan on making this rig heavy and also plan to haul heavy loads with it. Those stiff sidewalls will be needed at some point!
The recess for the hex is too deep and needed a spacer so it wouldn't rub the knuckle.
I wish it provided a narrower track width because the fronts stick out more than I'd prefer.
The front tires could be a smidge wider. Visually, the just don't look that much wider than the rears. Not a big deal, though.


Here's the rears all mounted up.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-jQgZqT5/0/XL/IMG_7571-XL.jpg

Fronts mounted up.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-kFfWjC5/0/XL/IMG_7572-XL.jpg

Sorry for the crappy lighting, but I'm pleasantly surprised that the ride height looks pretty good. The front is only a bit higher than the rear, which is surprising given the front TLT axle. Once I add some weight in the form of electronics, battery, speaker, etc. then it may actually sit level! Schwing!
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-rZmLmjF/0/XL/IMG_7573-XL.jpg

So I started mock up of the front fenders. Overall, I'm pretty happy with this positioning. Keep in mind the axle swings rearward under compression. I'll need to add some styrene under the hood sides, but I'll get to that later. For now I'm just interested in fender placement.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-NKQ6kbr/0/XL/IMG_7574-XL.jpg

Again, sorry for the lighting, but here you can see just how far they stick out. It's not particularly awful given most heavy hauler or all wheel drive trucks' front ends are often fairly wide, but I'd hoped for better.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-F2ZrpNn/0/XL/IMG_7575-XL.jpg

And can someone tell me what I did wrong with the install of my 5th wheel? Why is it angling the wrong direction?
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-rKPvjsS/0/XL/IMG_7578-XL.jpg

[trucker n]

it looks like you did not put the little v shaped spring on the fith wheel shaft that holds the fith wheel so it leans towards the back

[Tommy R]

I just went through the instructions again and can't see anything I did improperly. In fact, there's even a photo in the back of the manual that seem to show the 5th wheel angled downward like mine. I'll try to get some photos tomorrow...

[egronvold]

Check out Der Getriebedoktor for front axles that will fit your need. He also have them with cable operated difflocks :)

[egronvold]

The truck is comming together nicely, btw!

[Lil Giants]

You should fill all your tires & fuel tanks too with air rifle BBs and make a custom front bumper from 1/4 inch steel the proper width to cover your front tires. The heavier your truck is, the better it gets around in offroad conditions, especially dragging an empty or loaded trl.

[Tommy R]

Thanks for the input!

I'm pretty content with the TLT front axle for now. Lockable would be nice, but this thing is already becoming quite a money sponge so I'm trying to be careful how much I spend on it!

I may add some weight to the wheels, but if I do it'll be in the form of lead rope wrapped around the wheel so I can keep the foams. But I definitely plan to make the truck heavy whenever I can. I don't like lightweight vehicles! A steel bumper is a thought. Was planning on aluminum, but I may consider a steel bumper painted to match.

[roadranger]

Again, sorry for the lighting, but here you can see just how far they stick out. It's not particularly awful given most heavy hauler or all wheel drive trucks' front ends are often fairly wide, but I'd hoped for better.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-F2ZrpNn/0/XL/IMG_7575-XL.jpg

>I've used the inner rim of a Dual on powered steer axles to get the tire tread back under the fender. But, it's a standard width tire, like on your Lesu rims.
>You could try taking apart one of your Lesu Duals to see what the inner rim would look like on the steer axle.


And can someone tell me what I did wrong with the install of my 5th wheel? Why is it angling the wrong direction?
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-rKPvjsS/0/XL/IMG_7578-XL.jpg[/QUOTE]

>All of my stuff run the older Tamiya plastic 5th wheel, and I just epoxy a ball point pen spring to the baseplate up underneath the front of 5th wheel to keep it tilted down.

[Tommy R]

I did try a rear on the front and it looked okay (with a 1.5" crawler tire stretched over it), but like you said, it's a narrow wheel and I definitely want a wide front on this truck.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-kXpDtGM/0/XL/2017020622153394-IMG_7492-XL.jpg

Good idea on the spring for the 5th wheel. I'm still very surprised that this is (apparently) how Tamiya designed the 5th wheel to sit....

[Tommy R]

Taking a clue from roadranger's comments, I decided to try a slightly different version of using a spring to keep the 5th wheel at a better angle. I cut a paper clip and just glued it in place.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-J2gXgJN/0/XL/IMG_7615-XL.jpg

Then I reassembled the 5th wheel.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-KR6xBZF/0/XL/IMG_7616-XL.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-6PGq8cj/0/XL/IMG_7617-XL.jpg

Now it sits better. The angle should be more aggressive and the super glue will likely not hold long term, but it's a good proof of concept that I can tweak.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-dSdTG9M/0/XL/IMG_7618-XL.jpg

[Tommy R]

Front end progress... I remade both sides to include the lower section at the bottom of the fenders. They're mirror images of one another so the left/right sides match.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-MqNb6TL/0/XL/IMG_7665-XL.jpg

I trimmed some of the hood sides inside the fenderwell. I didn't want to cut it out entirely and lose strength, but didn't like the look of leaving it intact.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-LtKKBnD/0/XL/IMG_7666-XL.jpg

And bonded to the truck's body.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-qW2KsZs/0/XL/IMG_7668-XL.jpg

I know a Pete 359 would have the front axle all the way forward, but that wasn't going to work well with my driven front axle so I had to take come creative liberties. I also tweaked the fender location for a bit more up travel.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-GTMrb2W/0/XL/IMG_7669-XL.jpg

At full droop:
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-Xw952DM/0/XL/IMG_7671-XL.jpg

And at full bump. I'm very pleased.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-gRXmpwD/0/XL/IMG_7672-XL.jpg

I still have some finishing work to do, but overall I'm really happy with how it's coming out! Soon it'll be time to fully prime/prep the body for paint. I guess I'd better decide on my colors and paint scheme soon!

[Tommy R]

It's been bugging me how far out these Lesu wheels sit. Here you can see part of the problem. The recess in the wheel for the hex is a solid 6mm deep. So best case, you're running a pretty wide 6mm hex just to keep the wheels off the axle. Pictured is a 5mm hex with a 1.5mm washer acting as a spacer. In this configuration, just more than half of the tire stuck outside the fenders!
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-Rdsm4Dz/0/XL/IMG_7673-XL.jpg

So I decided to take matters into my own hands. :D I wanted to shoot for the ability to run a narrow 4mm hex to bring the track width inward 2mm per side. I stacked 4mm of washers into the wheel and took out the Dremel and my metal cut off wheel.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-qHWsn4b/0/XL/IMG_7675-XL.jpg

Using a steady hand I kept the blade flush to the washers as best I could and proceeded to cut down the recess in the wheel.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-RDNZc8G/0/XL/IMG_7677-XL.jpg

After the initial cut, things were functional, but kinda ugly.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-x49gWCn/0/XL/IMG_7678-XL.jpg

I took a flapper wheel to it and it looked much better afterward.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-Nbq9GK5/0/XL/IMG_7679-XL.jpg

It's hard to capture on "film", but now more than half of the tires are covered by the fenders with a 5mm hex. I have some 4mm hexes on order so we'll see if I can narrow it down just a bit more.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-CghQGTH/0/XL/IMG_7680-XL.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-McNgqkh/0/XL/IMG_7683-XL.jpg

[roadranger]

Narrowed down, do the tires rub on the springs at full turn?

[SuperDutyScaler]

I'm surprised no one has told you to buy a 6 tooth pinion from rc4wd? I have them on both my kings and a 55turn integy and have no problem pulling trailers off road. Also on the axle get a set of spider gears and add one between the ones in the difference, that will lock the axle for full traction. A lot of us on here do that also with zero issues

[Tommy R]

Narrowed down, do the tires rub on the springs at full turn?

No, sir! Not even close, if I'm honest. The track width is narrower, but certainly not "narrow". It's still quite a bit wider than I'd prefer, but I think this is the best I'll be able to do.

I'm surprised no one has told you to buy a 6 tooth pinion from rc4wd? I have them on both my kings and a 55turn integy and have no problem pulling trailers off road. Also on the axle get a set of spider gears and add one between the ones in the difference, that will lock the axle for full traction. A lot of us on here do that also with zero issues

You mean as opposed to the stock 10t? I haven't looked into regearing because I think the 2.6:1 with my Axial transfer case will be low enough. I can always look into regearing later, if need be.


Got a bit more work done. I removed all unwanted tabs from the axles to clean them up and also gain a bit more uptravel (in the rear axles). I also noticed the rear shocks were limiting downtravel so they're gone. Fronts were removed some time back. In addition, I drilled through the front TLT axle and secured it with some long screws.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-JpQdvgp/0/XL/IMG_7693-XL.jpg

On the bottom side I sacrificed a stock Hi-Lift spring to provide a bit more strength. It feels VERY secure now! You can also see some of the rough clean-up work I did on the axle. And yes, I know the hardware doesn't match. I need more panhead hardware in the correct length.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-67hWHBx/0/XL/IMG_7694-XL.jpg

[Tommy R]

Sadly, this is max steering lock. It's currently limited by the stock dog bones/drive cups. I may modify them for a bit more angle or I may look into some CVDs and aluminum knuckles.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-NbH65W9/1/XL/IMG_7695-XL.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-4wSnVCN/1/XL/IMG_7696-XL.jpg

[Tommy R]

In my quest for a narrower front track width, I picked up some Hercules Hobby wide wheels for the front. Aesthetically, I like them, but I think I prefer the Lesu wheels a bit more. Here's some pics.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-g3KfHC3/0/XL/IMG_7877-XL.jpg

One interesting thing to note is that with the Lesu wheels, all 10 screws need to be removed in order to access the wheel nut. On the HH wheels, you unscrew that black center section to reveal the wheel nut. Much easier, yes, but it doesn't look as clean to me. And no, the outer cover from the Lesu wheels won't fit the HH wheels.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-53rVH24/0/XL/IMG_7878-XL.jpg

The backsides.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-krQrXNx/0/XL/IMG_7879-XL.jpg

Side by side. Same width, but the backspacing is different.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-DpZBLF9/0/XL/IMG_7881-XL.jpg

Here's where the rubber meets the road. Get it?? Road? Tires?? I kill me... Anyway, here's the offset with the modified Lesu wheels. A little less than half of the tire sits outside the fenders.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-L6zDCp2/0/XL/IMG_7882-XL.jpg

And here's the HH side. They tuck in quite a bit more and I really like it!
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-BvPs3V6/0/XL/IMG_7883-XL.jpg

The slots in the wheels are more of a kidney bean and the Lesu rears are more of a circle, but it's hardly noticeable so I think I'll be sticking with the HH wheels for the front of this truck.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-JJk6ZTJ/0/XL/IMG_7885-XL.jpg

[Tommy R]

Smugmug is having issues right now so I can't link, but hopefully attaching the photo will work instead....

I couldn't use standard ol' socket head cap screws on these wheels in such a prominent location! Locked Up RC scale hardware to the rescue!

[frizzen]

Looking good, and i really like the way you shaved the rim hexes

Since you sacrificed some springs to beef up the axle mount, why not build the 5th wheel spring from the scrap?

[Tommy R]

Looking good, and i really like the way you shaved the rim hexes

Since you sacrificed some springs to beef up the axle mount, why not build the 5th wheel spring from the scrap?

Thanks! And good idea on the remaining pieces for the springs. I need to see if I can locate them, but I might be able to come up with something. :)

[TRUCKMAKER]

Go to this thread and look at post #3, you will find these at your local hardware store. I bought the smallest they had for 35 cents. Take it apart and inside you'll find a spring almost identical to what Tamiya uses for the 5th wheel and trailer legs.

http://www.rctruckandconstruction.com/showthread.php?t=11374

[Tommy R]

Thanks! I may have some sheetrock anchors in the garage and will look into it!

Also, I noticed my attached image earlier didn't work. My hosting site is back online so here's the image of the Hercules wheel with the scale hardware:
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-McJ9QBP/0/XL/IMG_7893-XL.jpg

[porky69]

From my experience with 6x6's the amount your tires stick out with the HH wheels is pretty close to what a real life 6x6 with 385/65R22.5 tires would have stick out. Add some fender flares and you have the right look.

https://i.ytimg.com/vi/hEaV-8M68Z4/hqdefault.jpg

http://www.timstrucks.com/4940263-R1-008-2A.jpg

[Tommy R]

Thanks! Yeah, I think the current stance is pretty close to what I was hoping for.

And in case anyone is interested in how to access the wheel nut with these Hercules Hobby wheels, this is how it's done. The center cover simply unscrews. What's odd is that it's completely smooth and has no way to grab it with a tool to screw/unscrew. With the heads of the hardware in close proximity, it makes it difficult to get a good grip on it with your fingers! I will likely plasti-dip the ends of a small pair of pliers so I can grab it reasonably well without marring it. Not a fan of this design, though. I may pop a hole through it so I can insert a small allen key into it to tighten/loosen it. I'm curious what others may have done?
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-8fHKPQc/0/XL/IMG_7910-XL.jpg

[huber1918]

Tommy,

I have a set of Lesu wheels very similar to these. They also have the removable center. Lesu drilled holes around the outside of the hub that allowed me to put a small allen wrench in it.

http://www.rclesu.com/1.14/img/W-2009%E5%89%8D%E8%BD%AE%E8%BD%AE%E6%AF%82/1.jpg

[Tommy R]

Tommy,

I have a set of Lesu wheels very similar to these. They also have the removable center. Lesu drilled holes around the outside of the hub that allowed me to put a small allen wrench in it.

Hey man!

That's a good idea. I'll have to look into it...

[frizzen]

Would it work to put some mold release (dish soap) on the hubcap, and rtv a stick to it? Once cured use that silicone cup to remove/install.

Or if you have a die that size, run the cap through a couple times to loosen the fit?

[Tommy R]

Would it work to put some mold release (dish soap) on the hubcap, and rtv a stick to it? Once cured use that silicone cup to remove/install.

Or if you have a die that size, run the cap through a couple times to loosen the fit?

Not sure I'm following you... The cap threads on/off easily, but to keep it from unscrewing when driving it'll need to be screwed on fairly tightly, which is a challenge. That makes it difficult to get it off, as well.

My thought was that if I drill through the cap (top to bottom, for example) I could insert a thin allen key in there to tighten/loosen it and the hole might not be too visible.

[frizzen]

My thought was make something that looks kind of like a toilet plunger, with an RTV silicone cup molded to the hub cap. Hopefully it would act kind of like a jar lid opener, and grip the hub to install/remove while you rotate the handle.

The holes around the edge to use a wrench like a pin-spanner would probably be faster to mod. I thought you ment center drill and file or broach flats in the hole to fit an allen wrench.

[Tommy R]

Got some more work done to the Peterbilt recently. First was to glue up the tires. The glue doesn't seem to bond very well between the aluminum wheel and the hard rubber of the tires. Hopefully they'll hold. Time will tell...
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-wnRwQtC/0/XL/IMG_7946-XL.jpg

Hard to tell with my crappy pic, but I replaced the 2mm nylocks with Locked Up RC acorn nuts. Much better!
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-x3vQN5R/1/XL/IMG_7977-XL.jpg

And paint has started! I'm waiting for a warmer day to apply the clearcoat, but so far I'm loving it.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-F2gMCX2/0/XL/IMG_7980-XL.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-NH38CJ2/0/XL/IMG_7981-XL.jpg

[Lil Giants]

If you filled your tires with BBs the tires won't slip on the rim, you wouldn't need to glue.

[Tommy R]

I appreciate the thought. My main reasons for not running BBs in the tires is because I want the tire to be able to flex/conform to the terrain as much as possible. So while I don't mind adding a bit of weight in the wheels, I prefer to have ample room for foam. Also, generally speaking I prefer to keep the weight on the body, as opposed to the wheels. I just do this for more realistic performance, but I'll sometimes add a smidge of weight to the front wheels. All that being said, I really don't know what to expect with the performance of this truck. Honestly, I'm not even sure what kind of terrain I'll be running it on. So my thoughts on all this may change once I get it running. :)

[tc1cat]

One way to not have to unbolt all of the center cap bolts is to make 8 of them just the socket head and super glue them in the cap. Only use the other 2 to hold the cap on the rim. This should be more than enough bolts to hold the center cap on. You might think about getting some model railroad stick on lead weights to put into the wheels instead of using BBs to add some weight to the truck for traction. Leaves room for the foam inserts.

[Tommy R]

One way to not have to unbolt all of the center cap bolts is to make 8 of them just the socket head and super glue them in the cap. Only use the other 2 to hold the cap on the rim. This should be more than enough bolts to hold the center cap on. You might think about getting some model railroad stick on lead weights to put into the wheels instead of using BBs to add some weight to the truck for traction. Leaves room for the foam inserts.

Thanks! I like the idea of gluing 8 cut-off screws into the cap like you suggested. I may wait to see if I end up removing the wheels/tires very frequently. If so, I'll definitely cut and glue!

For wheel weights I've used the stick-on type, as well as lead rope. It usually just depends on the shape of the wheels I'm running and which fits better without adversely affecting the foam's performance.

[Tommy R]

3 coats of clear applied. Will likely give it at least 2 more.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-66HpTbb/0/XL/IMG_8004-XL.jpg

[scottyk]

That gold leaf is awesome! Cant wait to see that thing covered in nice thick clear coat!

[Tommy R]

That gold leaf is awesome! Cant wait to see that thing covered in nice thick clear coat!

Thanks!! :) I was pretty much dead set on gold leaf being a part of this truck since I first thought of the build. It's coming out just like I'd hoped! All the clear is done and it's still curing, but I'll see if I can get some decent pics today since the sun is out.

[Tommy R]

As is typically the case for me, pics could be better. It looks nicer in person, but here ya go....

https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-xx3RrhS/0/XL/IMG_8024-XL.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-LhhdvQ5/0/XL/IMG_8025-XL.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-gxvWfv2/0/XL/IMG_8026-XL.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-RNpM5Fh/0/XL/IMG_8022-XL.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-2HtKSfJ/0/XL/IMG_8023-XL.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-MbZWvDD/0/XL/IMG_8021-XL.jpg

[up9018]

That rig is looking great! What paint and clear coat did you use?

Chris

[Tommy R]

That rig is looking great! What paint and clear coat did you use?

Chris

Thanks! It was some stuff I picked up at the local Advance Auto Parts. I'll get the exact name later today and let you know.

[Tommy R]

Progress.... Waiting for Semi Joe to get more Peterbilt aluminum grills in stock. :)
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-z2zkXjw/0/XL/5FA9B54B-E8CC-4EDF-8BD5-EC847C312742-XL.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-cLRsbwc/0/XL/F8CB7BDD-79C0-4EB6-9492-A9C134EA0D31-XL.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-N8QKZXJ/0/XL/3658B99F-93B7-44E9-AB20-52B06F34E015-XL.jpg

[pontiacmann]

:jaw: Looks very good nice work

[Tommy R]

Thank you very much! :)

Earlier, Chris asked about the paint I used. It's all just Dupli-Color from the local auto parts store: Bahama Blue and Arctic/Dover White. The white is definitely a softer eggshell color. Kinda old school looking and precisely what I was going for (I got lucky!). The blue is nice, but I was really hoping for a teal.....just couldn't locate any I liked. Everything is cleared with Dupli-Color gloss, as well.

Anyway, here's the paints for those who may be interested:
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-GRQs6xk/0/XL/IMG_8040-XL.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-SD8hDTn/0/XL/IMG_8039-XL.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-h8WCk67/0/XL/IMG_8041-XL.jpg

[huber1918]

Tommy,

Great paint job! What kind of prep did you do on the fenders?

[Tommy R]

Thanks, man! Basically, the prep on the fenders started with a lot of sanding to try to smooth out the coarse finish of the 3D printing process. Once I started getting it a bit better I started applying a filler primer. I'd apply numerous coats and then sand that down. I repeated this process until I could apply a coat of normal primer and felt good about the finish. But overall, there were probably a dozen or so coats before I felt good about it.

[up9018]

Very cool Tommy. That truck is really looking good.

Chris

[Tommy R]

Thanks, Chris!

I picked up a tiny bulb R&R tool from ebay and it looks to be working like a charm. Thanks! :)

https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-knrrF8r/0/XL/IMG_8093-XL.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-8Q9GSPt/0/XL/IMG_8094-XL.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-2jGMfNc/0/XL/IMG_8095-XL.jpg

[Tommy R]

Just had to see what the painted body looks like on the chassis with the wheels/tires installed....

https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-hWjH5HR/0/XL/IMG_8171-XL.jpg

[Tommy R]

On June 18th some Texas folks are getting together with some RC construction equipment and trucks to play around. I'm stoked about running my Peterbilt with some other rigs so that was enough motivation to finally get off my butt and work on the next step of the truck: mounting the transfer case.

I decided on an Axial trans as a t-case. It's going to hang down pretty darn low, but that's okay. This thing isn't a rock crawler. And if the low slung nature of the t-case causes too many hang-ups, I can always build a new bracket with the t-case oriented in a different direction. But with it the way it is, the front driveshaft easily clears the transmission so I figured I'd give it a whirl.

First I took some folder material and started mocking up the overall length of material needed and where I'd want to bend it (approximately, of course).
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/aeQa_V-XSkbJ1oGUspH3FU7WqPcp2nSjuPp8LxCeRYUuS9b8MqPXVSuf3 AaSKN-Bla3C1ao0mGKhY78R_4KSjPGTlyi7iqGPSYtzgsMO92ep_h0V0 X6hhzd4xjrio0qtSqkgrbQxjXVoQYo_iw4tFzuHVrVMBUIofGR-Rppd0xXr3A9Ym2fM7ouuDa5aekZBanQvlIhFIRL8T7HyRbeJGE DWnKCstv_ZEqDPXfBfjjjiWKlwo1QW7zCMFyUs52OvMYEkNr5h VzVJCALPpQo8_swJIb8DJ5imWMi9EfekKyONdiVBSQTrIZeZmb ktfxuJqNOkzpDda2qHsEqjot5vpvK6G4tPOQ3OT9z8YPD8hJHO heK_6mgTxs3qBDfWgm67O9L7Jb1K_mq2XJr-8cUDFYTL24o1cGdgQ0k0m_zdIdG83f8XcNxFBkH6VMI4LVoRjJ 2LSqaDsLjwbajcugDuA1HVdu2SJv4WBD2XkyLG0pvOTK0GeQTD hH0sLX9SV0MlPX3j1an3q20YoRRGwEvVv0-4r9xNkZa_gFQe8zuSgKUwA8ugk_pq-J1tHq5PSPHQFg9NP9eSxHBJN8ueeBlWtweb_T7UYirTChiDyxP yn7ggAeHxU2LC=w1215-h911-no

Then I transferred it to some 1/8" THK aluminum flat stock and began bending it. I just used my vice so the bends did not come out too cleanly. That's okay. It'll work for now and doesn't look awful.
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/dnvwazaYENHFwFrM3IFtve5aOe5MZMYOz9G0Stojo8FYdRo8Qi 0VTvfP16wVDzjVpfhz5LBP0UD5X1f6qQiVtTsJIpsPLY5VGWXn ppRseHuLLKac33Vr2T_tvhIe2tbnXDSzUJx9yBSEkDUAU2OtNI ppgIz6S39FP6PfzNDimwXmJAcEKOfd0OCLBIam6Ajsg2UZ4ooB WgHVSOPoMkPXD-J7l7kYuZUMuLDRvX5GP0m_yFY-qbhbljjpD4fHFmCNqUmLtv39Etd6avIoEYw9IoLYWdyUFkz8FA 3a4uvC8M1EcKHf7JvXae7cWMEAy3bzE0cHVruC2I2onTJkr6_E 0TGBJFNFgaQsocCKDKO3ZXT3UUlO_Sb8mpO-ZSwTVM0aKz3vfVXh_FLWTPcXzZtq4IE4NfTPUkZMS9_1dBsk_C tM5JIml8cCAE3rTSYQl6HLlvqrSw-bxXFWQWArPR0SbSxpTDhPCCFrWxVbNnEHajIP-AxJAdDagepMIAMZOa4WEI2FbY4mpX0OUYEx9zt06PqbiizBp6J QkE0rapJFcJFiTsSTQZ8723hUOxZoBtB2OkgjJlTapXDUKXnfA 2TZH7fFodlCUO_EC6bwxgwbfIoRsstD_Nl0=w1215-h911-no

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/U8Cv-Gg2JgreW3EhiYyilDkHk3AFBeP_hyUUDFbaUlu5THchjTcZzsD 8fd9dWO-ZyHIdvpwICvWlbiSuHlD_F2YFJvdALuzdkiZV3rgrAA29GydxY zTuQnUkMsDWyOaBaPYVykIgkMu01tfNLBzSbqvhMg-oC-n5HCQcL7AUfjtCJS6-F2lL3lKlxk-hmA5jE8OlFMSdJE9p8SAIgmHbJK9161T-SQrLVZsPzmLQiDyiiHBN_hWXhzGnMKNV3zQQmxmasWuvap4kUU zhfhHu4kpF2zgBhIPVRik-gHkmazF7n7qQrexgsXBKxO9BfGTbmYZR6BXkZYAyrRezwup1FW v7jEzlNxyGnD_SBNVfqUZfa_L1FDIC7b6r_T5qrZDO55LzJ6wk TVzBuBPx0M2VU08XNj_qMQvvMGc7XepeMZjXx0xcTUUlaf_2Uc sOYd-eMMeh2sQQ_i8be0rEgL5kFgPbxk2UAXfGQCczu6o5S7b50U29y vFM7FcTxNh4YyLQDWQdp7arUac-ISns7FqITBevEZGAYHPiQJXk7VFm4qz2ASyZfJqwks3j4WNyDz VSEl8X_Uq58nVFWobCB5ZmGVishJqjnZeitkuUbYD5mvqk39mV O7mD=w1215-h911-no

Was able to re-use the stock rear driveshaft to join the trans to the t-case.
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/8PE-ZzeV2YHxRusrvEii_vNzbWZae3VhxMo023YmTJUbfq48lcF0_q hZIf5YF2lpNV44sR-LWd8y862ILBI2aawQmaVZsi4UA__KAyiJFPlETUrblgPe7vEdJ 3Nw8Zdqb-5JtIljel8eUVr1NpRYULvoJkEuCmEQ8pNR_88U5bJDmhmDYe_9 G-6Qcw8cviPQVaBq45tFwBXoMsFv6IO6KBKVYQ1xXxstCabI2cN1 TVLv61_XGLjuBmfaVcunigDfdvwJvqe18Yuv2bhbuI0v1SWnIn BAfewTqIwSm26VoL5JivHBnXEErAiwqsIMuerktmc39KNu1cFK tR1VFzV8SxcwwKAThZDJs4Rdd60IJ5Aob64cyP61Tubih_c9H_ IVJkk1V2-ReQmBPUqw_iCJPVD6CDW_lTA44clbhofEt2YeIkE8bt7HoadFg 2SGTfw4VJS8odAv8WZicH8YZl0Rh3RwhEDYvK6wrUYf_TysgEI gTTiwHyzfDBx1O92D-ua9Z9MowVV8M4PZ6Bre1dqPC3rk0zdrBZhW5rP4rnQyPiyIquo u_FWBSaXkxC1Cc7uUp4N3MRwPl_P6pPRCH75TGUUVf4tN_o8Ua jxmqNXKHpQOTy7YHk2m=w1215-h911-no

Using the stock main driveshaft for the front now. This may change soon, though.
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/vJLD15dt-UD7FirSE_PEwRyCk3qGRDr8vt2Rs73lMymkKM1n7Ac_KEwi7Vg yDrBz4g4h9aRL5KnA_oBZXI9ChzFgAMipgUFE8yOvo56fbHCj9 iSTNW0skbX657vqYI31jBtS76CGTIuTFlNsbT5UBmQpV8_6vrK mJp6SBBZFFH4Id1VGsrzijaLTC-PY5b-j_brfch4OTmkJ7bA7a1RtsCnQPnrhC-K880z569AXGuBMj86-ZjLK3dW4Uxp5Vofoh5rGv6llRrvvAH4ZZsvtFbahg2gTWzKcag DrwK3O-zJdaeW74Gku1Fy5fdZZoxq-xEwCvcdKcTLikq_H2Uh_EuwiCoQG3GEhh8ADiyPEZkX0Cz30DV lf0d7rvjar-aAVqPz-bmerM4yD5jBOFBU7Ir5krr_jQBMWRqE_A0_jjeS0jOKiR_HiqP DfdlGXDVkyRn2bd-IXtjGsAoC8sy00xFYBNKJ5uewoqC3ZdUWqqsF2eXLmnt9QM56d 7JV3BOnI4YZAddQV3f89Dc4E2P7NoviH_1eCp2aPdeDAPI1aRr E8Mrc958sayGn0VJ2XFVHcIPOFEGsjIQxpvqYC8bFIvoHe57t4 fXuHmGdwnMKP5IVO9JUFjM81=w1215-h911-no

The t-case sits a bit above the framerails so I had to trim away some of the sleeper cab floor.
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/nSsLs6gxa_yhv1rPg4xGP6dkcZoJwrZc1xqZaiLHYvyUNVT57S GnkJLOPNi3Ri4cYV_9ndecPV0QKjILx8CFvYLKYwERNfUZtWKQ Sht_wr7EX2X1dmeTRSUBQEX9Fg4v0rs0_IlV-rKDTjunJsJowMsXBr7oyQuu2TVdnge-qpYKqPhRaTAl_k267P1Y-VmaxmFd7Hhxq6YGkRVNlWQmd0ANzfOPab6UxkD9Vr0pJT9HXur ZIvnjDUSySN8DJjD9zDUwiaUeISzV9_hdM0lfR6u0VHOKIWAlY Cn0zHBiZUNW3sPSOSGTMvzfS4iw063cgcNFLmmGbhKC0VY-Bxr2fgn4qR-0-FEaDQEPK6slhQIEmh3rPeWMjVYAZaUI0kbrI5_XNN9yXhRKc5_ tEL4yBJfKK5cNBPnOrjNZN-bC5llu9tX_-7kUIbnNDpArSZzCRWYyE1VxFk3P6O-AsyCzcY5bzzMhZ4L_IPKkZorvqTCGgPOUPuaA_OJ7LlE3VJEMn Uo_00wwiSuicsLvqnlqh0ZOyR_DqxfybQwWtbo7KfFF2A5iW05 yihDdep_dDXN-agc0zOAfnTKC_5CYo6eYs1C_x9GUoOQfUSII7G4JQ_QUXp-XpZpn=w1215-h911-no

Now it'll sit nice and flush. I just need a rear driveshaft to join the t-case and the middle axle.
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Qx-WMqqHx-13wgQjLTokZEHNJGFJE-Tr2Vggg-FFVhjSvgiModJhYMd0kBRMlvjUupqYWcDeQAJRHOUzlZAHwIZa UkoTGliuZhKyEB6QAabW4XB817CWqWQ1hCdD6YzEczVu4lvtNV FyKklqKnWmdzx5bqwdQJKQ0hCbVq7oebHT1GrfQHGnXD5Ld9Dr 7fD1GPBvBvHnwHVkBHX94_vRGEQrUV5nVHH2FCWwJfEOW8doU6 EUFOyhRJ-UEYQXUjUw53dhZU08JHfX4XLTByHMBZBKI2pqSf-JGJ2k67K9ERq1Pi9Zkk4I0VSh87YVaprbQcN0-MZUyxXlNc4avVsfhjVraKO1wcTFx1efR2cHkwiE9TxIQ5zagX9 O4MA212FkjjxVFz71VyZ0719GZ8qLBo7EGaPOOE5Xg-TJllYWgMrseBIsCuU9lQMtWDoQNzlhJwjhYqLi8NlSrHKALQlx Td5LacBPHJtqSxvk5ftW9EtPdVQfUiDFRBJqJ6uC8i3mSkTmeB bqUxxjIv84pbWvonTIKrcMeq1XJHiktNnLofwlAh2U7YmBxWI_ cMfoJ7WKH6vIHUu8KTISrsAHTGSLdhLApL_BFDYYP-1dLfiBuf6M20x7qE5z=w1215-h911-no

[Tommy R]

Couple more pics....
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/buygC0akrXLZKz1726doEaAP1MUkTJdyuuE9PYY-glHSYfkyGTouw74qz6v1jDgtDFWH4VHgIbkwM5dq2Lzg15DhXr oSyGMCYy8PEi8j8zmSlegaq_dd1jnHBWeIZnQShdxEokwfXTjy 3hqA2DjvAeVFRF1exFvDy_-n_6TFI2Rts3igOW2fpMVTBpSkhK03kQ_RoUj2zrvlm7YFViGPX ElDfS0x5nv32VXm09it3QWJoTVYVgMN_9lJlts3kC_4LjmH8wk 5kt5RAqaXctljy_FOu6E6w4lF6mbUBKX6tKf6oqWZQ0dAYh0eD zW38JyzLTs7K9l8uQ8heNERmgQ8UsgDiy7GQXuLXWwzcx_0ETO yOY_ryTLkUTtjdkgthChi7_DCX8FfQMsaIPBiWoehpCa4j7aTv gdOLTZiUYgj-vg7ZIcSaqB-IhTRvSfU1us0pAR4dfirjVG3k8ZDF8FVBtjnwvaULTRty_Mmjn 45RU9YBooUfhu1zcA1fSyOqDMQwokzR1d1BwbtPHQi4XklES4c PrfhnhQ_eomjt1W8BnsMDpTd8RI-TaLK_ZmDH_URcQXxMjHVRumHS2UL8aCMhQP9mItC4d_YO6Ixlg cK_mxPFvF2UBOd=w1215-h911-no

Showing off the new Lesu aluminum grill.
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/5g1O1d4AQWO-1FHpbTEwBf15tQ_PQgOZe7NWs7nmEqlVuxRA-HFMDu3j0hVSOyWmzQhAgq657j8om1dl7yT_HalJZjLjQEVGOlj Y6tlTlbsPgFLkQdHiU-zY-e82NDqR1_W9-aXYZOn9S1eS3XJw1PpIguAcoE_ADr6Vk78DUk9uXyGYwkkWjIK kVIz07yl58zFOA5Vz3sxDY_5Jq5Jmv3XXF4tTJaojU1dwizMgg tbRyHIphKJDj5sE9fBPzzqEqDPVx68l18xf61TZdiHBbfkcUt6 NlMrZ5wyrVu5KYmGjow6dHwQxqjIDQMfwdROHbg_aN2OIELWJb UKVoyJgpEMxYAQrcuIr68layyOKaWOzeUWSaVmGQvbikDPe-6NNTsZr0EwLkUHFnZv1sQu4PXqoq8McDhnmOpduAiGK-z2xCmwpVgpEIAdbpuPWyrySaDc6bFIlaZG3hRVVkJpOH-oZhhz9lcUaQS8I5H7NM2yjwavmPbgEhtvCeyPldzizkBlitoLu 2Dz7KzQ9uC0ANHOMMnPWw91gfiX-1xZ6kIptwKvFO109jRQ3uJvsRLVu7aNGcUMatVHOANBMdBehVt xczE75iYStIY1G2B2dkcCxHjY4wZPk=w1215-h911-no

Front driveshaft and t-case skid just visible below.
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ZaOJIAciSzfIX27mrjq9mU2vtSyE57CQxb5mIc7pIp9Nqq-O01g5iuNuz22_7PsqUMUXU5aMwy3qTsF693G7BpyDcJMZ4MCM2 BxcX6BQoDlNwJycttktFMQNzlMIDUyGxyCoEyGTGR15dNbAacT nGce_cz1MzTrub7ryC6NGBNRvFI_scuyO5Td-xgDQ_hQjYeZ5DCpvZJz3nZ_8_zkgJR-m62MNhrfUUyknIEwZhuVmSW1NJQNxRUO_3-4nb3ejp25EMsqCbHUsbRCDEEBvPbCJFH_WcjTJk9ckXnWhrOmJ uI4-ErWz0WTMTu56Ay-5UwfUtQDw6IxQ4hfqzia8RwQskgxd3I-oxAyHVRC-3E9uUF4eHLVeFwy6b6YLcoXedyYb15wNSdQwsyFpqE92EDEDZ0 SWgdQEbk3LyyWjq0PK_Ad4nTONo94-VW_iJEUUMV5GRF7Nr4mfKF_rBquGsuUGsAWM7VA3TeRxnXdhuN ocekGNhGEAy855JyUD3Zt7AK7lrTIsNzXsyUKkL3YfDwEpRSfm Cj2cVrj_v93eF8HnICM-7iOr3Rd0pAtk8UBqRSYpqGZFvMXle1fH9Z1lgOCmQI3uumpijx QS7zsbUG5gy5PiPFnl=w1215-h911-no

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ZtzdIxAvTKvgrOlTHXtFBA36jMxCnTfwRe1P-aUdViMiKGKP9OpaBpYQ5KOytGdCW4OY4w3V7Jy3KzF9_ppXeSs JHvysZFi_0rUwdaJUa0tktVBa53BsWy4n6rWvHa_Q3QHICziNN 1SFTYBXaApMCaC5m7ruR4itjerNWHVyVM4GilDQ6Z-2vxT61vsfQ6FenS7ghpmcu0rvkgBDLRB1wLCX0YqXEXYs0Sc_L YXo5g41UEVvReS_tQMuLrQ2XpVp2qChX0QKS5GqNPMG6kVlvNV nqcM4012ffS-tCEqH8K8GZ0C3mzvdGKkOzFnrzsS5WJtCyzKwAQ1iSmvLtCh58 QphoK5ukteDczMBDYleqFPveps3Iji9Bl8ejTCufG-DtD_cPhgH9whCEN6zEkBi2_y-nf-JrGKckLXpZmNqRe5_qfRdy0_S3CkyIC1a9gIQS71-oSWFPBuIeOkoF56779lqGU3804HxO5iZ9Ai7Pzo9udD68n3TCF nWNal6nmnPR87RjTNx_rF6dPWEskIpkuMWX0bREts9Dc9bUE7G uAOjnMDDG1ySsUyMNr-GGi31Bxx0YogooFqR0fUCIYDk6gKJky8mAxrUX6UUFl6_Y8X15 Z59LvNA=w1215-h911-no

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/yEd6AQFhhDsYS1TDbRbrmSHwHHHsb1_hUQ-6J5d3TH2cZQeGyoVHv5uPsRHLafrzlTFyxAuqOv9m_Tk9zGDne DVp4FZ5JJfWydh5SJ1DgqolObRa4dV0G4qu_0AcSoFVKQIJTou ie4ugKVJ_1WAuRpqmPKasflX-AXdsqmdrA-VJuBH-kMbJElmdMV4N2fG1bvEuHv7syA9bSheUaIqc1z4QI8bx77Q_IT SzrHmYDsdB0x4tTEsPiYPasZFbDzDaEaVPUXUt7Fm3vMxPJbsX w-_shySwH9zB6z6N3AP8B9pSnt_2p7lVLfhUqBcs6HrJWz4oFJPN 37tYzw6dCSlV46EWcTuYnXpEhTNrxmZgoHq8Csx-HQ1MUZWHLhilp85DCDtZSdirLYjvDcudFAsYRBshy4BwdJJh4n JVwMtxg0AJbzmZJQ73NtzlwqmuZK7TcmpPdubo_n_GJHr-Rv_7POOjW0w1y3zZtMoGUWCBCTqCaYIeCB2l-3ivKNQC8GUUMvVcrsN5yJWYT2agawLoMlKMsGNFLGq7eiqfma7 _HxgcxTbblJiWe8cY73qsfxbsZrN8vvJFAsbDWzrWfbkiWXTKH sylVb0lhJa4b0oQGdWT0SzEG9s7=w1215-h911-no

[egronvold]

Lookin' good! Almost too bad to get it dirty ;)

[Mustang46555]

Very Nice! Clean and uncluttered, beautiful job

[Northern Farmer]

Awesome job! I like the gold leaf :)

[Tommy R]

Thanks, everyone! :)

[jack van]

hi there your build looks realy great i was hopeing you might have some pics of how you set up your locking diff cables i am haveing problems makeing mine work

[Tommy R]

hi there your build looks realy great i was hopeing you might have some pics of how you set up your locking diff cables i am haveing problems makeing mine work

Hi and thanks very much! No locking diffs on this truck, however. I just used a VERY heavy oil in the diffs to nearly lock them, but allow them to slip.

[Tommy R]

Okay, folks, I need some suggestions! All throughout this build I've had the plan to paint the chassis the same blue as I used on the truck. I've toured a Kenworth and Peterbilt plant and on some chassis they would paint the entire chassis/suspension the color of the body. The entire rolling chassis would be assembled and then rolled through the paint booth so EVERYTHING would get painted. I love that look and it gives the truck a very "high end" appearance.

I'm 90% sure I'm going to do it (and soon!), but want some thoughts on it before I commit. Most trucks will have a plain gloss black chassis/suspension, but I want this truck to have a "well cared for" look to it and think a painted chassis would suit it, but I'd like to hear y'all's thoughts.

Here's a few trucks that I found inspirational. They look like work trucks that are taken very good care of, but they're not all out "show trucks". This is the look I've envisioned, for the most part....
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/0MVzJlV3swtlMvKbzICrQusbpSP9U0vbDTXQ3I1JPzmqZ1-g4AFCBIJDvEFfvjLuTPztN5hhVOfb1d3Zc5OSBWnmdObCBKtcy bqX5oD9Uz9vpE_7G6KU_rIFGIU17stJIdUNxJIgeH88DUFe83_ hGOK0SVrpWSTeJo_22S7CnV3_m105VRz7cAjWJ_ZL_Esy5EkfC n1ItPaAw298gYqBiabAiZm7cTsDk3uH67NBhYS5qCBT-UfBm6Na0mHCXyp72MiMISfSmzyYOohIohdy9GiHmg0TS19xUKE JHzJrrR4nD8yCYRvswMne2KQiIe_kIkxe8gzMynloP7r5U7IyY zKYZHCqL8xHZG8wpDNNKPBWimn1XKqMxhdKO2KzWiCbBrIEW-Xo15_PLmmZz1PrYR6w9BJASt0IulDWrMM-JSwWnJ4GsyshxwUCb0YewjgYv4xfkBs4RUhay4fRE1rLngN8mk 6BC5FcKjeXUkhQ4LXD6bp3HwcbEvmX_2VI6am8kLM8L7Mvu6EM dVbCHnxy7MQXJ4Mk1HWLyIJrF1h9115piK0N8ATmf7t41Eq2Cm _gwhTHGNWtzDXrVCdJifq_nOsHT-axU5t4Vsd4G3qUpOgyBE-wTs6-=w500-h375-no

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ciUoI3vofXSzNg5AMhI0Rol8Hnxl91pi5LtH7fOrr5xmegY8kx Jxyr06XPmrZ--T_kd1GNJS34gZJhjaTN66gnAkuSP9W7z1JPWYo7ha35BNyjtrj u9iMnTN0IKQUm6XRiZuAmZXnu_1rJQbhy7lXutBbQEi7zwpR9F Psq8ei6gbbK0yEbTkvkPk7a3A4UYqQLq1r4DNvC6RkTonUXwI9 GAba9m_ZjKQ3WoJa4GT0OYzfUhqpv7Kcs11gtVPh3gCarWvzFa MHiQT0gNy1737nqFvAdENvsBjh-wlbtoMQzh1dk19S0JnxtAH_zQtmFheNA6SfWTiYaW3D4TlpXiv MHqYxJLKcq-DHaqpfuSCCkOD0AbWvlLAXLRV2X-Dju2Xz9NrDMb4CqUnd19Ie58C0oDBksU75ML88f6QuV4fgzjVK yWzw1uaIsc2LnOHdF3CGYtIcVO5eIjAeZ-O3h_4vmanj-MBx8_YdDr_O3XP8YHTLT87SWVI0fiyenEXcmq7AKveGYMsQZmQ 6mtK78Zy9PyilbbCu9wIdSFTdMfl2m5Nuw1mUtA7tZx2pghHR8 LNmSGB-ZkSWw6RiAByHKaZtJY3RDcks0UDyOSf7NBwz61EZ8YFSJ5V=w6 74-h504-no

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Wv73IEisL7GFyN6rIUHbYs11R5rYD0hEmar1nRpt7f6GG4scMA AYLw4DiTNoZcLeHM83F5QnU5wM4zqehcCXCkGIZF2-JGyN7TEOtDSwrq5Ud5V-dnR52sPcm_DfqxpJHGrdDgXWcdoB-KCTEObzMQZmnR8dAgY4Zk7-s5mhhuc1VO0Atoi1x-fEFBonOkny0vbyP9KKk4ZcCRNsDVHaMiu7HoJwcsDNvctVI1Fs gtEzVrGFvyR7mMsDk13QWuOKStTiryikYyzBtTmY6fTjaPLRoL MIy2IXCgM2Y6seL8Vy3pmue7bbmWqOgXPY88sMET7_xrszBL_D P0gzlgCIfQQzNxHxE3_-Cc6lkwbNheqOo125OyD4AayR0e4H5aLzlAvyCNhPi8Imzpudtg s8n2GQfUN79bj6fV80L2m29ZtjbA4Tj5WyQMP4iV45bsMJ28lV 7saSJ-r5ZTf6-9a8Vp9e8G6FyC5RDC8Qs5KYGyz-SwZRQLUN68J8_uI2EZkz6CSQGvf7OX-GH-fbYBl8GIRBEXXcwvACsGYSjgf0NQnTCFPEu6LGb3qBhxd6lPo4 DScLehqXNKQiShJ7z6aZXu7MHBYn27BFS4UK6JScSX2_LJQDc7 WM=w720-h540-no

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/cbNts5FP2o6UJ8wn0ib3Q-TFJarXwsjugJ3GTD9mNSje0BW57ABzSyM8YQwPP261EYzmvBmE ZftQmem1UBVpd9VdnKObSHKhHqgVHtvPTSR9DOq5kJpV_Qyo-_W_Pzg-NlAZ8qsuIIjN7f0mh4zBAtEvCZ5agPtvCbUEEVpz_G-OU_mkTLSKLLb9K-d081fda68zmibA-lDuv8BhgwcoVwP4OjaoNlHdFNWq3xCyEAKTTKC0mDGKglS2bns pxkOlBDZKlLozAP4tx315RU-y2Cj8Eclke34l_4XJEoupuCFpLRjEC2wHo2AO2qVkNmOoxb5gX wCu-JiPB7BrzbC_iJcGv20Sd0U294VI8-vmd-Q5bpdi8yXDxa7ujO-bkkb386Ct7Re3YJqll5eRNMUco0BqP1xANRR8uRLqvA5AJiLcU iFUpQ_nm0TvQbKW71Te5PXAnzZbM0v3av7hGsxNI07uamhxFnK aN2FrJckYOyVtZ_7jGnFCn0GXsYjvIBkCaudY08NxIZkxYs7nU IQfsdtSFjm0zc9IughR3u9iYaxkXbqfjIr6D4Ox-biLHgLhUvDs1JquaK0b1vlmlEl9vR556uyA-ohwe32eCQzXTY6fJiPut2KL=w640-h480-no

Now take note of this one... The hubs were also painted the same color as the chassis/body. I'd like thoughts on this, as well. I'm leaning toward leaving mine black, though. Suggestions?
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/PW2uxp8PT5QZsByJhHz0C3GDxhuwPNXDYmDTVzDWcDdZHw3rqN twXijWYoAqG-DnbvFHdyuoYlZCmiUsDDk3Kl_io0q4FtmPD-k6YFs3vfUtiA6tP33L0Nrp_WKPY3L0UCFgdoONCWg6cB4Qg7OL FDHmhRj5aiCv93_6Tr66sL5LUHZCC3LEr3Pk_owCje5z_jWANa xke1BiWSpCUlT2152-64gEgEkR1M_twdJWDXmhU9lNq5VwDnF7uYa1utpoMYWjXY_Z_d KTwOHWXKOKlabDtag7KpbjPbFNDcwzd3LoaCDJ7CsL1mXfICoH ZFJcbtC7Ejq7hjn6OILWuDbd6q8ZjiXfeaPOZKs1ofq06qTKjY OHpJlRQZBqO15jeQPMyvegmROP3GLrbfVma1gmXApzQ5qlfV_R Ka0uIMRCdlcyaAIXav11X1bB1YJsafw-B_F2Rs5ZRAsmxJhua0vFImSDfS6sPUa1yku_9sCyK5S3tlYNj4-MEV6GMrklSkVeg_16KBr4ZUIQKdV8I08KV-jUhEL0-y7BQ7mojI-JDioGAxKmmKZIKjntYGQmDWxhiHOhnx3sKIfZvNxihRz19Xlrp fM6qXdIHvb5WV5usB3wQAkCsBxJ=w1280-h720-no

For what it's worth, the fuel tanks will remain chrome, but the straps will be painted blue. And here's a pic of the truck making a cameo appearance at the drift track in Houston last night:
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/vp1sy5cozRIFB-WRq532FZdsEIBea99VMeuYa8yP3lpVkh2fLnnLWaoHFvcuwPzx ks7U7wyqnZliehU06TDFbMoSr35rSG8LE96WWv1JiCMuDRbjBk IN1_qp6h1LbSN7xC4TwtaFnYKRYXE4kM3u8cYvV2yIx2JO995U 92BuQAsL1FVMmn5l5ubVK98aWlGW5u7iXI9ZZ8Ba4Wew5YOrzF _klSmP2xtdErE9zruBMk3Cv_b3BLoiyMvvXUnr8t-8PeCxnL0WxtsgKwwNRMC-srbG1dD1NtT6dZ86LIbYxycnyp4PbBKahWBxa7Ievn7f_nkXQO c6Uxl0hHdAoOZgwsRSImntyXX005l2ihMpPPxFdNEz2ayt1tQo W7pBTrCKW4vdxfF8OY6CNdQfy-UA3WdGeEymNl5_MQUgKyK8jvvtdL7U5ZCXDqddJQy8J2n830hZ q-mUovexVMHEoHQMZpySXUCNfQ0ch-GgoLZKmnR7zMApLPAoHHtzKooREvd036doNzQcSOrdt2RrgUri KfeCIzvNhbUJranIq9AFGS_uMMXw1swvfpcKKnDdvvH8lHa5al Ayfp3_ka2au2IqMzRZnVuEAG4GzCC5FNjm-7dX8RLEYzwV=w615-h346-no

In the background....
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/14Ax9vyHKrboaGAkckTmNVXW21TScge4HmIWX1JEdSg1HoypNZ Ld1EfyM1G3w12TjfEdtapAklLZxEhrVdQ4eePL6SoIL1R2AQeu kVc9kh6IcilhVqVvg4vp9z87OMUR-YDrnIGYgxwTzputc2JfU3zTj2V9HxtqCR9pZrtz6F5kVMYFw7c y2d8VJMh6WleKUKPzHMUUVUKe70W0yDnjh0bcurXPdhMTk7BXz pwKcdDdedt6_VEkuu_Z0SohdmFeBPcXQMv3aKRdgpD3X4wVBdS d2T-fp7tYw8RLTnlr3kpZVggsWV3OrDyxIp3cXTKpj112n909lF4Eq ndEtwgo6wTF-PMlpRv4cVIhmaCdphC08FJnB3DcPy3JaL_a_Z9sghfJWqhtiCk e7yRlersD2D3dA_U1qlAkKk83MKBa6bqgP3ATIx_dLTZgEnOuP RGpvxCSc6dJ6x0RyTVN5M33TfNwAfh1cLDAvYHCFAmjzgA9VVq 0zZBKMoRCSDYH8nBF6MGWYx1mzAjh1Aqauw_6FmGDxs026tnNU 53tjm6RuM6l5pGz_FcyYTFkVOif4es8svlyVcwQZTuY-HaxsHjnQ_pjDmFTHJYUBFT_QPTooiw6mI2wnXKG=w1369-h770-no

[NRS91]

Any updates on this truck?
Im building a 6x6 King Hauler Day Cab and I was wondering if you ever did get any more steering lock out of those TLT-1 axles?

[Tommy R]

This project is back after a way-loo-long hiatus. Currently working on paint. Decided it's getting a Cat. :)
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-cvVP6Nq/0/X2/i-cvVP6Nq-X2.jpg

Chassis is getting fresh paint, as well.
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-qXdT3GN/0/X2/i-qXdT3GN-X2.jpg

[jerry56]

LOL you should be all primed for a fresh start....

[Tommy R]

LOL you should be all primed for a fresh start....

Ha! I see what you did there! :D


So for the most part the paint work is now.....finally.....complete. The chassis got some gloss clear, but not as much as the body did. That just seemed to make more sense to me that the frame isn't quite as pretty. Anyway, here's some pics...
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-pcMM9bP/0/X2/i-pcMM9bP-X2.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-z4c6Rc5/0/X2/i-z4c6Rc5-X2.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-fVtpDpp/0/X2/i-fVtpDpp-X2.jpg

An overhead shot of the Axial t-case.
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-qzQRLLc/0/X2/i-qzQRLLc-X2.jpg

I need to get the 5th wheel's orientation corrected. It's leaning the wrong way again!
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-szJf7jn/0/X2/i-szJf7jn-X2.jpg

Interior floors going back in. You can see where I hacked it to clear for the raised transmission.....which was required to make room for the front driveshaft.
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-j8NHScm/0/X2/i-j8NHScm-X2.jpg

I'll need to build a center console to cover this up when I finish out the interior. I don't plan on having side windows so the interior will need to be fully detailed to look realistic.
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-SHPqxnW/0/X2/i-SHPqxnW-X2.jpg

Looking like a truck again. The front needs to come down about 1/4", but I've got a few options on how to address that.
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-hBQttsF/0/X2/i-hBQttsF-X2.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-zBXPRQt/0/X2/i-zBXPRQt-X2.jpg

Here you can see how far the front tires stick out from the fenders. I'd prefer a narrower track, but I'm okay with this.
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-zgfqKRL/0/X2/i-zgfqKRL-X2.jpg

But to keep the front and rear track widths proportional I think I'm going to make some 1 or 2 mm spacers for the rear. It'll be subtle, but it'll also provide some space between the tires, which I think will be a good thing, appearance-wise.
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-D4kQnkZ/0/X2/i-D4kQnkZ-X2.jpg

Oh, one other thing I did tonight. The hub bore on the Lesu wheels is super tight and with just paint on the hubs, they would get scratched up when installing them. I couldn't have that so I bored the wheels' center bore ever so slightly. This angle makes it look worse than it is. It actually looks good and nicely centered in person. At least now the wheels can be installed/removed without scratching up the hubs. :D
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-dtjcKZS/0/X2/i-dtjcKZS-X2.jpg

[frizzen]

Glad to see you're back at it. That's looking really sharp!

It's a shame the trans eats that much interior room, but it should be able to handle a lot more terrain now

For the front track width on that TLT, why not just get some narrower wheel hexes?

[Tommy R]

Glad to see you're back at it. That's looking really sharp!

It's a shame the trans eats that much interior room, but it should be able to handle a lot more terrain now

For the front track width on that TLT, why not just get some narrower wheel hexes?

Thanks! Yeah, it's a bummer about the interior, but I'll fab up some interior bits to make it all look nice. Just gonna take more time. :)

I think I'm down to a 4mm thick hex already. And to fit that I had to "machine" the depth of the hex on the front wheels. I'm not sure how much farther in I could go, but thanks to my RC drifting, I do have some crazy thin hexes that I may be able to try. Hmm.....

[Tommy R]

Good news. Turns out the dash fits over the transmission without modification. I'll still need to build a center console over it, but that's okay. I knew I'd have to do that.
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-QKV26CJ/0/X2/i-QKV26CJ-X2.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-2Pc8SL6/0/X2/i-2Pc8SL6-X2.jpg

Then as I was sifting through bins of parts I came across some stock HiLift springs. Wow, these are easy to bend! So I did a little eyeball de-arching and test fit them under the truck.
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-wBPXk9P/0/X2/i-wBPXk9P-X2.jpg

It's still got a smidge of negative rake, but it's hardly noticeable. I may leave it like this, but I'll have to paint those springs, of course.
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-LJxBhXB/0/X2/i-LJxBhXB-X2.jpg

[Tommy R]

So the truck is now the closest it's ever been to finally being a runner! So OF COURSE I end up doing this:
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-v6r7NS5/0/X2/i-v6r7NS5-X2.jpg

Yeah, I'm a glutton for punishement. I decided to change two rather important things about the truck. First, I decided to change the drivetrain. A Lesu 3 speed trans will be here tomorrow and it's already set up for AWD. Second, I decided the stock frame rails made the truck look a little too stubby for my liking. So I picked up some Grand Hauler rails.

Here's the truck with the new (unpainted) rails installed. Ideally I may prefer it about one inch shorter overall, but I'm going to try it like this first. Maybe one day I'll shorten the wheelbase, but I think the longer setup fits the style of truck I'm wanting to emulate.
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-GxMrnps/0/X2/i-GxMrnps-X2.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-fxGdNFg/0/X2/i-fxGdNFg-X2.jpg

The Lesu gearbox has an even taller gearset than the stock Tamiya. That sucks! So to compensate I picked up a HH 80t motor and it's feeding a 3:1 gear reduction unit. I hope this new drivetrain holds up okay. I've heard bad things about some of the Lesu stuff.
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-QkSqsvw/0/X2/i-QkSqsvw-X2.jpg

[egronvold]

Looking good! Will be interesting to hear your experience with the new setup.

[9W Monighan]

This project is back after a way-loo-long hiatus. Currently working on paint. Decided it's getting a Cat. :)
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-cvVP6Nq/0/X2/i-cvVP6Nq-X2.jpg

Chassis is getting fresh paint, as well.
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-qXdT3GN/0/X2/i-qXdT3GN-X2.jpg

Changing the subject some, What's the yellow Wrangler?

[Tommy R]

Looking good! Will be interesting to hear your experience with the new setup.

Thanks! Well, the output shaft of the 3:1 GRU is too small for the press-fit pinion that the Lesu trans requires (pics coming soon) so I'll have to figure something else out there. I was thinking 3:1 may not be low enough anyway so maybe I'll just get a 4:1 now. Given the tiny pinion of the Lesu unit, though, I'm concerned how easily it'll strip.

Changing the subject some, What's the yellow Wrangler?

That's my '01 TJ. This is what it looked like when it was still on the road:
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-cB6jmsg/0/X2/i-cB6jmsg-X2.jpg

However, it's currently under the knife as I do some major surgery. I'm adding 15" to the overall length (converting it to an LJ), adding one ton axles, and building all new suspension. This pic is a bit outdated. Frame is now lengthened and welded back together, but still have a long way to go!
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-LqLhSDQ/0/X2/i-LqLhSDQ-X2.jpg

[9W Monighan]

WOW:eek: you are really into that TJ I see lots of travel in your suspension.

Here's my sons rig. 98TJ He drives it every day in the summer. Luckily he is 2mi from his work because he put 4:88 gears in it. Dana44 air locker rear,high pinion 35 in the front. Rubicon long arm suspension. We have a beater Cherokee too
Now is see why you just had to make that PETERBILT into a 6X6

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img923/3252/UBaI2q.jpg
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img922/4467/hKloik.jpg
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img924/5446/maTomz.jpg

[Tommy R]

Nice rig your boy has there! That's the exact axle and locker combo I ran for years. With 35s it was great, but with the 37s I'd have preferred 5.13s. After wheeling the Jeep since '07 I decided to finally put some big axles in it so I no longer have to worry about breaking them. New combo will be Ford Dana 60 and Sterling axles with air lockers and 5.38s. Stepping up to 40" tires, too. I plan on keeping the good road manners as I drive this thing all the time and love taking it on road trips. :)
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-RDFRsH7/0/X2/i-RDFRsH7-X2.jpg

And if you're interested, I'm documenting the Jeep build on my YT channel:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQg4WnREnuSHByWUvBjNK8w

[Tommy R]

The Lesu 3 speed AWD trans showed up. It's aluminum and pretty heavy! Comes with two sets of mounts (one higher and one lower), but the holes don't line up with the width of the Tamiya rails. *sigh*
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-PjSqGWG/0/X2/i-PjSqGWG-X2.jpg

And look at the size of this teensy tiny press-fit pinion gear! I'm going to be feeding it with an 80t motor and a GRU so it's going to be subjected to a lot of torque. I'm concerned about it's longevity. :(
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-k75KrFB/0/X2/i-k75KrFB-X2.jpg

Here's the "highly detailed instructions" that come with it. :lol:
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-jXzV7r6/0/X2/i-jXzV7r6-X2.jpg

The rod at the top is if you want to shift the trans from the front, instead of the rear. I may have to look into this further. I opened up the trans and tried to swap them, but it wasn't look like it was going to be worth the effort so I may just shift it from the rear. And judging by the short length of the shifter linkage, they must assume your servo is right next to the trans!
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-3XnNLXC/0/X2/i-3XnNLXC-X2.jpg

Mocking up the trans with the motor. Adding the GRU will require it to sit rearward just a bit more to clear the servo. The GRU will add about 3/4" overall.
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-znFL4G2/0/X2/i-znFL4G2-X2.jpg

[frizzen]

Truck looks great, but i'm guessing you'll take it back apart for paint later. Very nice looking trans

Cool TJ stretch project! Are you just going up to LJ length, or going even longer?

[Tommy R]

Truck looks great, but i'm guessing you'll take it back apart for paint later. Very nice looking trans

Cool TJ stretch project! Are you just going up to LJ length, or going even longer?

Thanks! Yeah, I'll be tearing it apart again for what I hope will be its final paint job, but I'm waiting to have a better idea if I'm done with any fab work beforehand. Case in point, the front axle was sitting too far to the rear of the fender opening so I've been working on getting that aligned better. I'll get some more pics/updates posted hopefully later today.

Regarding the Jeep, the body will be LJ length so I can use an LJ top and cage. However, I backhalved the Jeep 5 years ago and got about 6" of wheelbase added to the rear, putting me at just over 99". With the extra 15" length of the LJ conversion added in, I'm hoping to have a similar wheelbase as a 4 door Jeep, which is about 116". I'll also be stretching the front a bit.

[Trucker47]

Awesome thread! You've shown me all the steps I need to take to build my project haha.

I've picked up a grandhauler and want to build in into an tridrive 8x8. Based on the oil field trucks I've seen up here in Canada.

[Tommy R]

Awesome thread! You've shown me all the steps I need to take to build my project haha.

I've picked up a grandhauler and want to build in into an tridrive 8x8. Based on the oil field trucks I've seen up here in Canada.

Happy to help! :) Hope to have an update to share soon. Just been waiting on parts to arrive and also been doing some drilling and tapping....

[Tommy R]

My 4:1 RC4WD gear reduction showed up so I got it hooked up with the Lesu trans and the HH 80t motor. I was pleased to see how short the overall length of the GRU is, but was surprised to see so few gears inside. My biggest concern right now is if the gearing in the GRU and the trans hold up.
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-KWQzSNT/0/X2/i-KWQzSNT-X2.jpg

The front mounting hole on the frame rail was re-used, but the rear hole has to be drilled/tapped. Note that I'll lose the upper step mount, but I don't really care. It's not like it's gotta support the weight of a scale 350 lb. truck driver! :D
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-dmZkd3L/0/X2/i-dmZkd3L-X2.jpg

I had mentioned earlier that I'd like a bit of a gap between the rear tires so I made up a little styrene spacer to sandwich between the rear wheels. It's about 1.5mm thick. It's ugly, but is only for prototype purposes.
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-pzWgWrK/0/X2/i-pzWgWrK-X2.jpg

Here you can see the gap created by the spacer on the far wheel set. The near wheel set is stock Lesu wheels.
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-xm35XZD/0/X2/i-xm35XZD-X2.jpg

Ages ago I modified a set of front wheels to get them to tuck in farther. That was on the Lesu wheels I originally tried. These fronts are made by Hercules Hobby and they have quite a bit more backspacing so they tuck in better. However, I still have to run a 6mm hex for them. If I run a 4mm hex you can see the hub bottoms out against the knuckles. Also note I put some aluminum TLT knuckles on.
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-n4NNGZs/0/X2/i-n4NNGZs-X2.jpg

The issue with a 4mm hex on these wheels.
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-mMnvqqR/0/X2/i-mMnvqqR-X2.jpg

So I drop a pair of thick washers inside...
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-t6XTPTs/0/X2/i-t6XTPTs-X2.jpg

Then out comes the Dremel! I rest the cutter flush to the washers and slowly cut through the hub. Be careful here. It's super easy to get hurt if you don't take the right precautions!
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-QxDVXkT/0/X2/i-QxDVXkT-X2.jpg

And the deed is done.
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-3sQgB8f/0/X2/i-3sQgB8f-X2.jpg

Now I have great clearance even with thin 4mm hexes!
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-9cXxFWc/0/X2/i-9cXxFWc-X2.jpg

Now the fronts tuck in really nicely. They're not fully tucked, of course, but this is the look I was after.
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-qVfbQXW/0/X2/i-qVfbQXW-X2.jpg

The other side still running 6mm hexes.
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-RjCcK4R/0/X2/i-RjCcK4R-X2.jpg

[egronvold]

Some smart tips for others to use :)

[Tommy R]

I decided the front axle needs to move forward a bit to get better centered within the fender. So I drilled a couple new holes in the leaf springs.
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-txcM8dF/0/X2/i-txcM8dF-X2.jpg

However, this moved the axle too far forward. So then I moved the hanger back and up just a bit. This would bring the wheelbase back a smidge, but also give me a bit more caster. By the way, you can see how poorly my paint is adhering to the self-etching primer. I recently picked up some touch-up paint and I'll definitely be needing it when I go to reassemble.
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-5Lv5Z5r/0/X2/i-5Lv5Z5r-X2.jpg

And here's my plan to put a little space between the duallies. First, I thread in some longer 12mm screws through the hub. I also added a dab of grease on the hub to hopefully prevent the wheels from bonding to the paint that seems to want to come off far too easily sometimes!
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-WKdFXvp/0/X2/i-WKdFXvp-X2.jpg

Install the inner wheel and then add nuts to the wheel studs. In this case, the nuts are 1.5 or 2 mm in thickness.
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-6x2rw93/0/X2/i-6x2rw93-X2.jpg

Now with the outer wheel installed I have a reasonable amount of space between the tires. It's not excessive like a brodozer but it's just about what I was hoping for so I'm pleased.
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-pM5RrrD/0/X2/i-pM5RrrD-X2.jpg

[NRS91]

Looks good, perhaps if you have someone local with a 3D printer they can make you some wheel spacers/shims? I know you can barely see the nuts but a spacer would look better and hopefully make it easier to keep all your nuts tight!
Im based in the UK but can help if youre interested, keep up the good work!

[Lil Giants]

I see your tie rod in front of the drive axle, it should be behind the axle, it will steer far better behind. ;)

[Tommy R]

Sorry if this is a double post. I swear I replied yesterday, but didn't see it.
Anyhoo...

Looks good, perhaps if you have someone local with a 3D printer they can make you some wheel spacers/shims? I know you can barely see the nuts but a spacer would look better and hopefully make it easier to keep all your nuts tight!
Im based in the UK but can help if youre interested, keep up the good work!

Thank you so much for the offer! I do have a local friend who offered, but felt the nuts were a simpler solution. However, I would prefer a slip-on spacer that's printed provided the thickness can be held consistent.


I see your tie rod in front of the drive axle, it should be behind the axle, it will steer far better behind. ;)

Thanks for the input. I considered that, but my current knuckles don't provide for that. I would need to also move my drag link behind the axle, which would complicate things. So I'd either need to get a side mounted steering bell crank or fab up a bracket to keep the drag link up front and the tie rod in the rear. Not saying it won't happen, but it would take a bit of work.

Currently, my limiting factor on steering throw is the outside wheel. The knuckle kits the axle at full lock. However, if moving the tie rod behind the axle increases the Ackerman significantly, I could certainly see if providing a nice benefit!

[NRS91]

Currently, my limiting factor on steering throw is the outside wheel. The knuckle kits the axle at full lock. However, if moving the tie rod behind the axle increases the Ackerman significantly, I could certainly see if providing a nice benefit!

You did reply, not sure where its gone though!

Some off road racers use reverse ackermann to help pull the front end around so for an RC it would be nice to have correct geometry but not critical, it may even help stop the double drive rear end pushing straight offroad?

[Tommy R]

You did reply, not sure where its gone though!

Some off road racers use reverse ackermann to help pull the front end around so for an RC it would be nice to have correct geometry but not critical, it may even help stop the double drive rear end pushing straight offroad?

LOL, after I posted the new message the old one appeared! So I deleted it. :)

I just did a little test and it does appear putting the tie rod behind the axle results in more Ackerman which would turn my inner tire more than the current setup. I think my limiting factor would be the dog bones in the front axle shafts. I wish CVDs were still available for TLTs. :( I think I found some in Germany, but they were too pricey and I couldn't justify the cost.

[NRS91]

LOL, after I posted the new message the old one appeared! So I deleted it. :)

I just did a little test and it does appear putting the tie rod behind the axle results in more Ackerman which would turn my inner tire more than the current setup. I think my limiting factor would be the dog bones in the front axle shafts. I wish CVDs were still available for TLTs. :( I think I found some in Germany, but they were too pricey and I couldn't justify the cost.

Yea ive been looking for CVDs too but no joy!

[Lil Giants]

LOL, after I posted the new message the old one appeared! So I deleted it. :)


Sometimes you need to refresh the page to see recently made posts.

[Tommy R]

Got a nice delivery of Lesu goodies today, but the only pic I have so far is the micro servo mount for the transmission. I drilled/tapped a bunch of holes on the chassis today for the other stuff that came in and all of it should get paint tomorrow.

Anyway, here's the servo installed. With the servo arm cut down just a bit it clears the bottom of the sleeper cab. I just had to clearance part of the crossmember for the shifter link.
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-n7Q5ZCH/0/X2/i-n7Q5ZCH-X2.jpg

[kaptain Jack]

Are you kidding me? That's amazing !!!!

[Tommy R]

Are you kidding me? That's amazing !!!!

Thank you! :)

[Tommy R]

A few progress pics after some paint work.
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-jwGZg5M/0/X2/i-jwGZg5M-X2.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-8687QZ7/0/X2/i-8687QZ7-X2.jpg

Lesu rear suspension and some other aluminum goodies. I also should've installed the rear center caps. D'oh! :)
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-svzrxVW/0/X2/i-svzrxVW-X2.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-w9b8pdk/0/X2/i-w9b8pdk-X2.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-7S7D5jr/0/X2/i-7S7D5jr-X2.jpg

Scale hardware for the win!
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-2crwfs3/0/X2/i-2crwfs3-X2.jpg

[Bo Wallen]

That's good looking. I see you have lots of patience :) You're hired:lol:

[Tommy R]

That's good looking. I see you have lots of patience :) You're hired:lol:

LOL, thanks!!:D

[frizzen]

Very sharp looking truck!

[jerry56]

Are the leaf springs you used tempered..?? I saw you drilled new holes, did you have to anneal the spring or something... I haven't had any luck drilling leaf springs, any tips would be great.

[Tommy R]

Very sharp looking truck!

Thanks!!

Are the leaf springs you used tempered..?? I saw you drilled new holes, did you have to anneal the spring or something... I haven't had any luck drilling leaf springs, any tips would be great.

I doubt they're tempered and I didn't temper them myself. They're just stock F350 springs and yeah, it was a pain to drill through them. :(

So we got a bit of snow on Sunday here in Austin, Texas. That's not a common occurrence for us so I figured I'd take the opportunity to take a few pics and see how it drives in some icy conditions. Well, it did great!
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-vDPmTS3/0/X2/i-vDPmTS3-X2.jpg

Then last night we got some real snow. Like....."are we even in Texas" kinda snow! Depending where you measured, we easily got 4-7 inches, which is crazy for us. Well, of course I had to test out the truck in deeper stuff today. Overall, it did really great and had plenty of traction. The limitation, as one would expect, is the low hanging front bumper and the overall low right height. Nonetheless, I was pleased!
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-fvhtdTZ/0/X2/i-fvhtdTZ-X2.jpg

I also got some Lesu steps for the frame, but only have one installed at the moment.
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-w7FPNQ3/0/X2/i-w7FPNQ3-X2.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-H5FqFdR/0/X2/i-H5FqFdR-X2.jpg

[NRS91]

Tamiya 9805522 is the part# for the rear leaf spring of Tamiya 4x2 trucks which are pre-drilled with the 12mm spaced holes, it may be an easier option?

[Tommy R]

Tamiya 9805522 is the part# for the rear leaf spring of Tamiya 4x2 trucks which are pre-drilled with the 12mm spaced holes, it may be an easier option?

Oh, mine were drilled, but I wanted to move the axle forward a bit so I drilled new holes.

[NRS91]

Oh, mine were drilled, but I wanted to move the axle forward a bit so I drilled new holes.

Ah my bad!

[egronvold]

Might be a long time before you can take winter pictures again ;) Looks good in the snow!

[Tommy R]

I knew I'd want custom plates for this truck and rather than spend money on some custom ones, I decided to try my hand at making some. Being 1/14th scale, they're only about 1" long so it won't be obvious if they're not perfect. And it costs me nothing to try so why not? I went online and copied a few JPGs of license plates I'd want. I printed them and then trimmed them out. Here's a super close-up of what my mediocre printer could do:
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-rVKNj6t/0/67aa76de/X2/IMG_0582_HEIC-X2.jpg

Then I adhered them to some .015" styrene with some glue.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-9m26JsH/0/83918310/X2/IMG_0583_HEIC-X2.jpg

Then I trimmed them out with some clear tape applied over them to protect the ink.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-28Cpj2j/0/cb253a7e/X2/IMG_0584_HEIC-X2.jpg

The thin overall thickness feels pretty realistic and from a short distance I think they'll look just fine.

Another thing I've been thinking about lately is the front bumper. I haven't found an aluminum one that I like so for now I'm going to use the stocker. I cut off the two "buck teeth" from under it to help the approach angle.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-LCvWZ34/0/be143583/X2/IMG_0587_HEIC-X2.jpg

I like weight in my scale RCs. They perform more realistically that way. In fact, I'm rather disappointed the Pete is only weighing in at about 9 lbs so far. So I decided to add some weight in the form of touring car weights glued into the front bumper. I Dremeled out some room inside the bumper, glued the weights in, and will paint them silver so they're less obvious. Those 80 grams really gave the bumper some heft!
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-GcNf8zf/0/9a8b6ec9/X2/IMG_0586_HEIC-X2.jpg

[egronvold]

Weight is good! Interesting way of making plates :)

[Tommy R]

Weight is good! Interesting way of making plates :)

I agree! And ideally I'd like to apply the plates to some super thin aluminum, but I just used what I had around.....for now. :)

[frizzen]

Snow pics look great

Soda can or aluminum disposable oven cookware (tooling foil) can make pretty good license plate backing.
Commercial rig with Vanity plates? (The LA plate took me a second to get.)

[Tommy R]

Snow pics look great

Soda can or aluminum disposable oven cookware (tooling foil) can make pretty good license plate backing.
Commercial rig with Vanity plates? (The LA plate took me a second to get.)

What can I say? The owner/operator is a vain guy! :lol: Great idea on the can for an aluminum source! I'll give that a try soon. Thanks!

I popped some holes in the dash today in preparation for backlighting the dash similar to how Bob at Hobby Concepts does it.
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-Vq9HGBx/0/X2/i-Vq9HGBx-X2.jpg

And with paint and my marker job it came out looking like wood grain. Perfect!!
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-n2wksZC/0/X2/i-n2wksZC-X2.jpg

Primed/painted some other bits today, too. Ignore Cletus. I think he sniffed too much spray paint today.
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-djRSBzS/0/X2/i-djRSBzS-X2.jpg

[Tommy R]

I picked up a pair of super single Michelins from RC4WD in hopes of maybe running them up front. Holy crapola, they're gigantic!
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-t6HXnNj/0/6cf47174/X2/IMG_0611_HEIC-X2.jpg

I mean....sure, technically they fit, but that wheel is way too narrow so these will be used another time. It's a bummer because they look amazing and are so much softer than the rock hard Lesus.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-qJjXrLW/0/9e7364b6/X2/IMG_0612_HEIC-X2.jpg

I also started working on painting the driver. Never painted a person before so it'll be interesting to see how this dude turns out! But how do I mount him into the seat?
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-6vKCn5z/0/e58b80e4/X2/IMG_0618_HEIC-X2.jpg

Not gonna lie. This felt a bit awkward.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-WxMW4JG/0/8bd69a2c/X2/IMG_0622_HEIC-X2.jpg

But I had my reasons to violate poor Cletus the way I did!
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-Z9m4jcK/0/0edd7f58/X2/IMG_0624_HEIC-X2.jpg

See? I told ya. This wasn't just for my own personal enjoyment!
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-2twBJtQ/0/009088c3/X2/IMG_0625_HEIC-X2.jpg

Finally getting around to doing some detailing of the cab, too. Rolled the windows down to make it easier to see the interior.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-qhXVr8S/0/2ffbf08a/X2/IMG_0626_HEIC-X2.jpg

Got the orange lenses fitted to the cab clearance lights and painted the visor.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-vjhzhz5/0/801ea82e/X2/IMG_0627_HEIC-X2.jpg

I also painted the wipers and some window trim.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-ptzTsRF/0/7bb0e382/X2/IMG_0628_HEIC-X2.jpg

Lastly, I picked up a Gear Jammer fifth wheel slider and a Lesu fifth wheel and did some painting along the way.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-nMBPsBL/0/5438b1ba/X2/IMG_0629_HEIC-X2.jpg

[Bo Wallen]

Lookin' good over there. I did shorten the front axle 19 mm. and moved the springs further in, a little tight for the gearbox. It looks pretty cool.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48916255921_7fbf3f86f0_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2hwyAEM)IMG_5576 (https://flic.kr/p/2hwyAEM) by Bo Wallen (https://www.flickr.com/photos/47955920@N04/), on Flickr

[frizzen]

For super-single steers, probably consider making a set of cut&shuts? You'll need some Rubberized CA glue normally used for mounting racecar tires. I'd take off the parting line tread block, and maybe the one next to it.

We're not gonna judge you about what you were doing with the driver, if you're both concenting adults, be yourself.

[Tommy R]

Lookin' good over there. I did shorten the front axle 19 mm. and moved the springs further in, a little tight for the gearbox. It looks pretty cool.

For super-single steers, probably consider making a set of cut&shuts? You'll need some Rubberized CA glue normally used for mounting racecar tires. I'd take off the parting line tread block, and maybe the one next to it.

We're not gonna judge you about what you were doing with the driver, if you're both concenting adults, be yourself.

Thanks, guys! I've got a set of 30mm width wheels coming from Semi Joe. We'll see how they fit. I've done cut-n-shuts back in the day, but it's been well over 10 years. I may consider that, but we'll see...

As far as Cletus goes, things were a bit awkward between us for awhile, but we're all good now. :D

I'm happy to see the interior taking shape the way I'd envisioned. :)
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-P4k7QKm/0/X2/i-P4k7QKm-X2.jpg

[Tommy R]

Well, Cletus has gotten all gussied up so he can scour the truck stops for lot lizards!
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-D6Jfztr/0/8e579b24/X2/IMG_0717_HEIC-X2.jpg

I told him his toupe looks ridiculous.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-KsvW853/0/1a4017df/X2/IMG_0718_HEIC-X2.jpg

Since I got rid of the raised transmission I decided to get a new floor section that wasn't cut up. I also painted and detailed the seats a bit.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-F38BdJC/0/1b20a583/X2/IMG_0737_HEIC-X2.jpg

Uh oh, the Lesu trans is also too tall.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-wBBV7Cp/0/f8b5b64c/X2/IMG_0733_HEIC-X2.jpg

A 2mm body lift under the cab and sleeper did the trick.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-FcSGSsq/0/d3126084/X2/IMG_0734_HEIC-X2.jpg

Barely noticeable.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-HkT7Bq9/0/266bc679/X2/IMG_0727_HEIC-X2.jpg

Here you can also see the plates I put on the bumper and I also added some lenses to the Lesu headlights because they weren't included! :(
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-TrtS8NJ/0/df4fe725/X2/IMG_0728_HEIC-X2.jpg

Speaking of the Lesu headlights, it's not going to be easy to wire these up cleanly!
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-bLzTz9M/0/95e12281/X2/IMG_0731_HEIC-X2.jpg

Since I'm planning my trailer build, I also picked up some aluminum axles and some cheap wheels. For now I'll use the extra Lesu AT tires I had laying around, though I'm hoping to get some lower profile tires to fit underneath my trailer. Anyone wanna trade? :)
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-PdpN8M6/0/6d341a7d/X2/IMG_0723_HEIC-X2.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-9wfv7Gq/0/60c73052/X2/IMG_0724_HEIC-X2.jpg

It's getting so close! Cletus had to jump in and make vroom vroom noises. By the way, it's not easy getting the body on with him in there! LOL
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-jVc59zm/0/c7c9e19b/X2/IMG_0739_HEIC-X2.jpg

[egronvold]

Did you at one point think "Hey, I've finished my truck!", before you started the modification and upgrades? :)

[Tommy R]

Did you at one point think "Hey, I've finished my truck!", before you started the modification and upgrades? :)

No way! :D I've actually had a fairly clear vision for this truck once I got it. I know it's still got a way to go, but it's never been closer!:)

[Tommy R]

Uh oh! Looks like I've got a defective super single. I hate it when that happens.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-GkZhWG8/0/b302c418/X2/IMG_0850_HEIC-X2.jpg

Yep, I'm resurrecting my cut-n-shut days from 10+ years ago. I decided to remove one sliver of tread blocks to get the width I wanted.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-bwXzhnQ/0/36a2eedb/X2/IMG_0749_HEIC-X2.jpg

I've got some more work to do on them, but I'm liking what I'm seeing so far.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-xBjFsxn/0/8588e7bf/X2/IMG_0851_HEIC-X2.jpg

[Tommy R]

All done. Incidentally, the Michelin on the right from rcbrmin.com is SUPER hard. It made the Lesu feel like a crawler tire. The RCW4WD Michelin that I narrowed, however, is very soft, but with the stock foams it looks like it'll support the weight of the truck nicely.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-jTS6WgX/0/b1f93f1c/X2/IMG_0853-X2.jpg

I may experiment with taller foams to see if I can get the profile of the tread a bit more rounded, but nonetheless, I'm quite pleased!
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-5S83tC7/0/0a6c20ee/X2/IMG_0854-X2.jpg

[skeeter]

I LOVE the idea of trimming some meat out of the center of them tires!

[Tommy R]

Trying a new servo that hopefully doesn't burn out like the Tower Pros have done.
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-BJdf2DF/0/X2/i-BJdf2DF-X2.jpg

Interior details.
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-Sv9tS3R/0/X2/i-Sv9tS3R-X2.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-tb9g9q2/0/X2/i-tb9g9q2-X2.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-FZdmGdM/0/X2/i-FZdmGdM-X2.jpg

Now Cletus is ready for some gear jammin'!
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-XjwpVxV/0/X2/i-XjwpVxV-X2.jpg

Anyone else tried TheDIYGuy999's homemade sound/light controller? I'm working on it now...
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-ct2nF39/0/X2/i-ct2nF39-X2.jpg

[jerry56]

Not yet ... kind of intimidating ....really want to see how this works out

[Tommy R]

Not yet ... kind of intimidating ....really want to see how this works out

Yeah, very intimidating for sure. I've done all the soldering now, but getting hung up on the software aspect of it. Hoping to get it resolved soon....

[Wombii]

It's a great soundkit. Using it in my firetruck. I'm using my own hardware and heavily modified an older version of the firmware though. Let me know if I can be of assistance.

This truck is so beautiful!

[Tommy R]

It's a great soundkit. Using it in my firetruck. I'm using my own hardware and heavily modified an older version of the firmware though. Let me know if I can be of assistance.

This truck is so beautiful!

Thank you very much! I'm really looking forward to getting the ESP32 unit working. Right now I'm researching SBUS/radio stuff. I use a Sanwa MT4-S radio setup and hoping I can make it work well enough. It's only 4 channels, though, so I'm prepared to get a Flysky Noble if I decide I want more channels.

FYI, I just ordered a Lesu locking front axle so coupled with the transmission shifter all 4 channels are used up, but maybe I can use the dual rate or something to operate lights and such? That's the kind of thing I need to determine. :)

[Wombii]

In theory it should be possible to add some code for that. I have used an arduino to control multiple things from a single channel in the past. But it won't be quick or easy and might not be user-friendly in use. I don't know if I can gather enough energy to dive into the soundkit code for a challenge like that right now, but I might take a look.
Having more channels for light controls is definitely easier.

[Tommy R]

Oh, I wouldn't ask you to do that! I'm thinking of getting a Flysky Noble transmitter and I believe it can support 8 channels. I just want to make sure that it will be compatible with the ESP32 MFCU.

[Tommy R]

Hey Wombii (or anyone else in the know), I've got a basic and likely very stupid question to ask. :)

If I use the SBUS feature from a receiver, does that mean I can control many more channels than my standard transmitter/receiver would normally control? As I understand, PWM would mean I can only control 4 channels with a 4 channel rx/tx, but if I have an SBUS output on my receiver I can control more. Is that accurate?

Similarly, is IBUS similar to SBUS in that regard? Basically, I'm trying to determine if my 4 channel Sanwa setup can control all the features that Martin's ESP32 system is capable of controlling. It would seem I'd need a receiver with an SBUS output, however, which does not seem to exist with Sanwa. So now I'm looking into the Flysky Noble NB4, which I believe offers IBUS, but not SBUS that I can see.

I definitely want to keep a steering wheel controller for my truck, but want to have full functionality like Martin does in his youtube videos. Any thoughts?

Many thanks!
Tommy

[Wombii]

I really wanted a wheel controller for my truck too, but I ended up learning to "drive stick" because I needed 16 channels.

The transmitter is what determines how many channels are transmitted through the air. The receiver is what determines how many channels are put out through wired connections to servos and other things. With the old standard PWM servo outputs that usually limits the channels, because there is only so much room on the receiver for connectors. With bus protocols like SBUS or iBUS the receiver only needs one physical connection to output multiple channels. You still need a transmitter with 8 channels and an 8 channel receiver that supports SBUS if you want to output 8 SBUS channels over one connection. Often you'll find SBUS receivers with 3 standard servo connectors + an SBUS connector for the whole set of 8 or 16 channels.

The ESP32 soundkit supports a max of 6 separate PWM connections, but more for a bus connection. Plugging in a single bus connection is easier both for the hardware and software parts.
It looks like the standard setup for for the soundkit used 8 channels, but most functions are available with 6 PWM channels. The standard setup is using:

2 normal channels for steering and throttle,

3 channels with 3 positions (up-neutral-down) for gear, indicators, headlights and engine on/off,

and a normal channel /potentiometer for horn/bluelight/siren. It seems this one has 4 positions: horn-nothing-bluelight-siren. Skipping separate bluelight/siren controls you should be able to do that one with a 3 pos switch instead, or 2 pos for only horn.

2 of the 3 position channels requires dual rates.
You could probably cut one of the 3 pos channels by enabling auto indicators when turning. If you want to skip light controls entirely and only use engine sound, you might be able to get away with 3 channels (steering, throttle and gear).

I have only barely looked at the Flysky Noble. If it can output 8 channels over iBUS it seems like a good choice. Check that the channels are assigned to switches that makes sense with the info above, and that they have adjustable endpoints.

diyguy also has an open source arduino based pistol grip/wheel controller project that works directly with the soundkit, if you're feeling brave.

Please keep in mind that the above info is strictly theoretical from the documentation and code, and that I haven't tested it. I branched off at version 4, and had to make my own code to read SBUS, simulate an automatic transmission with a separate reverse switch and control sounds directly. I don't use the light features and I don't use any of the standard channel inputs.

[Tommy R]

Thanks so much for all the info! I just found out that the Flysky i6X (10 channel) is only $60US so I think I'm just going to get one for now. Once I'm more familiar with the ESP32 MFU I'll consider looking into getting a wheel controller to work with it.

It looks like this receiver is compatible with the i6X and it appears to have SBUS. It's 8 channel, but I think it may be all I need. Think it's a good choice?
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61Fc6JryHyL._AC_SL1500_.jpg

[Wombii]

As far as I can tell, the soundkit now has the power to take iBUS/SBUS in, decode and output servo signal for steering servo and 5th wheel, so that should work fine. I would guess you can use the 5th wheel servo output for diff locker instead.

[Tommy R]

Well, I hate to admit it, but I ordered a stick radio yesterday (Flysky i6X) with a 10 channel receiver. I also ordered the 8 channel rx pictured in my earlier post. My hope is that I will get the ESP32 MFCU working and gain familiarity with it, then when I'm more confident I can look into adapting to a 8-10 channel pistol grip. Not sure if that'll be possible, but I hope it will be.

[jerry56]

You may already know but this one has the 10 ch and IBUS
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07D35C6MQ/?coliid=I2I5BBTU1NESXY&colid=X118RPBMCW6I&psc=1&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it
And just FYI the with a firmware update the $50 6ch i6 becomes a 10 ch, I've done all three of mine and it seems to work pretty well...

[Tommy R]

Thanks! It looks like mine is coming with the 10 channel version of that receiver:
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/619TEyleq4L._AC_SL1200_.jpg

Ultimately, I'd love to be able to operate the truck with a Flysky Noble 8 channel tx, but I'm not yet sure it'll give me the functionality I'm looking for.

[Tommy R]

Well, in an effort to make it easier to integrate the DIYGuy999 light/sound controller, I decided to pick up this Flysky i6X. I also picked up an additional receiver and between the two of them I hope to have a solution to be able to fully control the MFCU to its full extent. In time I hope to be able to migrate to a pistol grip transmitter of some sort.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-7MvHPc7/0/f45f8f89/X2/IMG_0974_HEIC-X2.jpg

So I've been having issues with the Lesu transmission. I believe I've mentioned how I've burned through a micro shifting servo and the replacement servo tends to run hot. It hasn't failed, but I think it's only a matter of time. The reason? Well, the springs are pretty strong so when you're in low or high gear there's a lot of stress on the servo to hold that gear. In middle gear there's no strain because the springs aren't at play.

After a lot of thoughts on how to deal with this I decided to tear it apart to move the shift linkage toward the front. Moving it from the rear to the front means I'll have room to use a full size servo to shift. It'll still be under load, but a full size servo should be able to withstand the load much more easily. So here's some pics of the Lesu 3 speed 4WD transmission cracked open.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-Vvg6mHT/1/ba5954e0/X2/IMG_0977_HEIC-X2.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-LNNhhtL/0/0c14acab/X2/IMG_0978_HEIC-X2.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-gbnRPZn/0/67136bb5/X2/IMG_0979_HEIC-X2.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-WRpqr6V/0/94b2a48a/X2/IMG_0980_HEIC-X2.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-PcVtTW2/0/caf839d9/X2/IMG_0981_HEIC-X2.jpg

So here's the shift linkage now at the front.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-fGFw8ks/0/bb902ed8/X2/IMG_0982_HEIC-X2.jpg

Now to get this full size servo set up to shift it. Hope this works like it should! I may instead mount a low profile servo with the servo horn up top. I'll experiment with a few options tomorrow.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-FMd34hw/0/23679611/X2/IMG_0983_HEIC-X2.jpg

[frizzen]

So with the FS-I6X, i'm assuming you still have a menu for setting 'End Point Adjustments' like the fs-i6?
If so, you can back off the servo throws to a lower percent of travel to keep from having the servo fighting at full power to reach beyond the mechnical stops on the trans.

If it really is the servo fighting too strong of springs, you might also be able to move a locking collar or trim a turn off the coil to reduce preload toward 2nd gear.

[Tommy R]

I'm currently using a Sanwa MT4-S, but yes, it has all the endpoints adjusted properly. But the spring tension is significantly stronger than those in the Tamiya trans. I hoped to remove the springs, but they're necessary for the trans to function. Before I cut or replace the springs I decided to move the linkage so I can use a full size servo. If necessary, I'll look into softer and/or shorter springs. I also looked into just using the Tamiya trans with a front output. That would work out great except for the fact that the output is 1" higher than the front axle's pinion and it's only 1" forward.....so that yields a super steep driveshaft angle. :(

[Tommy R]

I now have a full size servo controlling the shifter. It's so much stronger than the micro servo I tried and doesn't heat up at all. I think that issue may now be resolved.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-WvRWbzM/0/cf042a37/X2/IMG_0986-X2.jpg

I also put this stuff in one rear axle to try out. It looks like it'll work better than the 2.5M weight oil I was using and shouldn't leak out. Now to do the other rear axle. No need to do the front axle, though. I have something different planned for it! :)
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-4Kr6Z7t/0/f6f64076/X2/IMG_0987-X2.jpg

I'm also starting to make some progress with the ESP32 MFCU. I have the steering worked out, but that's all. I still have quite a bit of configuring left to do. Having to also learn a new transmitter just adds to the complexity!
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-73fPq4t/0/dc0eb653/X2/IMG_1002_HEIC-X2.jpg

[egronvold]

Looking at the ESP32 myself, just a million other projects to finish first...

[Tommy R]

Looking at the ESP32 myself, just a million other projects to finish first...

I can definitely relate to that!

So here's why I didn't bother with putting the new diff grease into the TLT front axle. Lesu locking diff with a 2.6:1 ratio. It's narrow so the tires will tuck as far as I want, they bolt up to the F350 leaf springs I'm using, they're shorter in height which will lower the ride height a bit, and with the option of an open diff and higher steering angle, it should turn much sharper. That being said, the narrow width of the axle means the tires will get into the leaf springs. Add spacers to gain more throw and the scrub radius increases, possibly causing fender clearance issues. We'll see, though! Time for test fitting soon. :)
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-wSxg8MH/0/4cc66049/X2/IMG_1012_HEIC-X2.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-kMJXvKW/0/f9be7698/X2/IMG_1013_HEIC-X2.jpg

Here it is with the diff lock cable attached. It also included a tie rod, which I wasn't expecting. Nice!
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-b3gH7X2/0/61d41e7e/X2/IMG_1015_HEIC-X2.jpg

It's substantially narrower than the TLT it's replacing.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-bd2dFSv/0/d0fbb364/X2/IMG_1014_HEIC-X2.jpg

I almost forgot this came with my axle order! I'm really excited about the level of detail this unit will add. I think it looks pretty amazing.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-nSZKRsB/0/ba832a65/X2/IMG_1016_HEIC-X2.jpg

[Tommy R]

With that narrower Lesu front axle the tires tuck waaaaay more than before. And this is shown with wheels that have much less backspacing than the ones I've been using. I would actually like to space them out a bit more. The issue is the scrub radius is pretty bad and at full lock the tires get into the back/inside of the fenders. I either need to do some clearancing and/or raise the fenders up a bit.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-32kvX8K/0/85eb5a20/X2/IMG_1024_HEIC-X2.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-7LxWBtz/0/382e3f5a/X2/IMG_1025_HEIC-X2.jpg

Loving the new AC unit!
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-cgvZQGk/0/49530193/X2/IMG_1023_HEIC-X2.jpg

And I've got a bit of good news to report on the ESP32 sound unit. I have it operating the lights like it should, but am working on the sound now. Fingers crossed I can get it all working properly!

[Tommy R]

Meet Fred.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-ZKggVP7/0/af1d56cc/XL/IMG_1093_HEIC-XL.jpg

[Tommy R]

So I hit a bit of a milestone yesterday. You see, a very daunting task that's been lingering over my head is the wiring for the lights for this truck. And that was on hold while I determine what solution I want for the light/sound unit. I was working on the DIYGuy999's homemade unit, but I haven't fully figured that one out just yet. I'm not giving up on it, but in the meantime decided to try a Beier USM-RC-2 sound/light unit. Since it's an off-the-shelf unit and available in the US through Bob at Hobby Concepts, I figured I'd try it out.

WOW! This thing is powerful! It can do so much. It took me awhile to learn it and get it all sorted, but I managed to make it happen and I'm super excited about it! What does that mean for the truck? Well, it means I can finally start wiring everything up and begin......dare I say it......final assembly?? :lol:

Yeah, yeah....I know no project is ever "done", but you know what I mean. :D I also have a few more goodies for the truck that I'll be installing along the way. I'm so stoked to have this thing finally nearing completion!

[Tommy R]

In the process of wiring lights, it dawned on me that I never shared what I'd done with the dash lights. I did pretty much what Bob from Hobby Concepts does.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-dMF9RMS/0/d462f3f6/L/IMG_1388_HEIC-L.jpg

https://photos.smugmug.com/Hobby-Stuff/Scaler-Pics-and-Videos/King-Hauler/i-8PZpg6w/0/c48e8157/L/IMG_1389_HEIC-L.jpg

[skeeter]

I'm loving the lighted dash!

[Benni]

It's amazing what a couple of LEDs can do...

[groom3]

how did you get the sift linkage to the front?

[Tommy R]

The trans came with a second shaft for front shifting. When I had it disassembled I swapped them out.

[groom3]

Wondering if you reversed the longer shaft or put it in the same way? I am trying to change mine but having difficulty.