Skeeters contracting services [Archive] - RC Truck and Construction

skeeter

08-28-2017, 08:33 PM

I rarely have JUST one project in the frying pan at a time. With a SUPER dump, & log truck in the construction phase, PLUS Bruder Cat D5, & Cat D11, as well a Mack conversion AND a Bruder Liebherr 574 in the conversion phase(s)......Oh, yeah, & the cheapo Chinese excavator (needs IMPROVED upon so it'll actually do something) ALL are in the process of being converted/built, I think it's time to open shop. Much easier to have ONE thread for all the pics, comments, question, concerns etc.

I'll post pics & build progress here from now on, perhaps even video or two along the way as well.

This weekend, THANKS to Stein, user name SteinHDan, & the open source 3D STL print files he graciously posted, I began putting the new asset to work.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4431/36710111652_7d31132a63.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/XVWVew)20170826_174837 (https://flic.kr/p/XVWVew) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr
The 3D printer started to crank out the needed 3D parts for the front loader conversion. Being NEW to 3D printing, as well as CAD, I'd be several months before I could feel comfortable enough to produce ANYTHING that would be used for building.

With that being said, I already ran into some problems with the newest asset. I printed parts, I've looked at pictures that show what's wrong & how to correct it, but they DON'T have this problem on there. One of the parts I printed is severely deformed.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4358/36047007034_ebf4a67a25.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WVmkkh)20170828_164523 (https://flic.kr/p/WVmkkh) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4420/36072528883_8f4c8d7a33.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WXB96a)20170828_164548 (https://flic.kr/p/WXB96a) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4399/36710110372_8f0ac77d63.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/XVWURs)20170828_164534 (https://flic.kr/p/XVWURs) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr
Any thoughts, ideas, opinions how to fix?

skeeter

08-28-2017, 08:48 PM

Here's the other parts that came out of it so far.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4394/36710367622_22c4ea727e.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/XVYejN)20170828_173625 (https://flic.kr/p/XVYejN) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr
I'm pleased with how they came out.

frizzen

08-28-2017, 09:23 PM

Looks like it's just on parts with overhangs. The plastic is not allowed time to cool properly before gravity makes it sag.

Couple ways to go:
Slow your extruder, and thus print speeds, also weaker layer bonds. - Meh
Rotate parts for no overhangs before slicing, printing. - Not always an option
Add a fan at the hot end to help set plastic faster so it can't sag. - May void warranty, have to run aftermarket software.
Edit parts to ramp overhang supports that are ground off during clean up. - learn cad
Dual print heads with filiment and a disolvable support matrix. - $$$

skeeter

08-28-2017, 11:15 PM

Even with things slowed down, it still drooped. :eek:

CAD, Yes, I'm learning it, slowly. :o :thinking:
I've never been good with computers, so it's a challenge for me to learn it.

Here's my Polish Hillybilly Redneck solution, since I DON'T yet know enough about CAD. :confused:
Making the "RAMP" :D
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4380/36487218930_800c599133.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/XAfwZy)20170828_193913 (https://flic.kr/p/XAfwZy) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

It's been RAMPED :lol:
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4431/36049497904_41740857c7.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WVz6Mj)20170828_193205 (https://flic.kr/p/WVz6Mj) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr :bounce:

frizzen

08-28-2017, 11:39 PM

Heh, nice.

"If it's stupid, but it works, it's not stupid." How do the parts look?

skeeter

08-28-2017, 11:45 PM

:cop: And it's been bridged AGAIN! :D
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4399/36075558833_0b464af36d.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WXSEMF)20170828_203920 (https://flic.kr/p/WXSEMF) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

08-28-2017, 11:49 PM

Heh, nice.

"If it's stupid, but it works, it's not stupid." How do the parts look?

Yeah, it's pretty silly, but it works.

I'll know in a couple more hours. So far, it looks a LOT better than it's predecessor! I think I'll be able to clean it up, & work with it when it's done.

skeeter

08-28-2017, 11:51 PM

I just hope I DIDN'T slow it down too much & make a weak part! Well..............IF that happened, I know what to do for a Polish Hillybilly Redneck fix to make a 3rd attempt at it. :)

skeeter

08-28-2017, 11:54 PM

Gotta run, just got a call, some Ftard just went into the ditch....................it Towmater time. LOL

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4339/36428411176_fff7c1dcbc.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Xv48uL)20170808_002335 (https://flic.kr/p/Xv48uL) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

08-29-2017, 12:12 AM

All warmed up, & ready to leave the garage.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ULW8AM72PJU

skeeter

08-29-2017, 01:25 AM

Turned out to be these two fools in the ditch.
https://www.google.com/search?q=coy+vance+duke+images&tbm=isch&imgil=eKJyxvF4LbjXpM%253A%253BQ5N55IC4ev7BMM%253Bh ttps%25253A%25252F%25252Fwww.pinterest.com%25252Fp oprocket6%25252Fdukes-of-hazard-coy-vance-bo-luke%25252F&source=iu&pf=m&fir=eKJyxvF4LbjXpM%253A%252CQ5N55IC4ev7BMM%252C_&usg=__aKhk5qmMeucX7cDIi1Lt0MI8dEU%3D&biw=1304&bih=629&ved=0ahUKEwi9ydKP2fvVAhXnlFQKHbYeC1YQyjcISg&ei=n_mkWf39KOep0gK2vaywBQ#imgrc=eKJyxvF4LbjXpM:
Said something about being in town for the big race at the track this coming weekend. Something about not being able to get any track practice time in right now, so they were out on the streets a tearing it up. After seeing them drive, it's now wonder they stacked 'er up. This video was captured by an innocent by standard.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KPOg1IGQjZM

skeeter

08-29-2017, 01:58 AM

It's kind of crappy cell phone video. Here's a slightly better picture of the truck they were driving.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4312/36010732392_e9e67206f8.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WS9q9q)Traxxas Slash 4WD General Lee (https://flic.kr/p/WS9q9q) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

SteinHDan

08-29-2017, 04:34 AM

Hi Skeeter!

Your two printing problems are very common problems, but they can be fixed. One is actually very easy to fix :-)

Overhangs drooping:
- The 3D-printer cannot put molten plastic in thin air. It will need some support to build on. But you don't need to add it yourself. Your 3D-printing software can do this for you. It will create a scaffolding that can easily be broken away when the part has finished. I guess you have a "Add supports", "Automatic supports" or an option like that in the software. That takes care of that problem.

Part pulls up in the corners:
- This is the most common problem of this generation of 3D printers IMHO. Getting the first layer of plastic to stick to the build plate is crucial. If it lifts in the corners, that's only going to worsen as you go up (as you can see from your part).
There are many ways to fix this, or combinations of ways:

- A surefire solution is to print with a raft. Again, this is most likely an option in your 3D-printing software. When building the raft, the 3D-printer will use a lot of plastic to get a good grip on the platform. The only downside with a raft is that it takes longer to print, but it will most likely stick fine.

- Instead of the full raft, you could just print anchor pads in the corners. This is what I do most of the time. Something like a square or circle 20mm diameter, 1mm height pad and put it on the bed under the corner of the part so that it gives more surface that touches the bed in that corner.

- Moving the nozzle closer to the build plate: I would try this first. Calibrate with a thinner piece of cardboard / paper than you did before. That will make the nozzle closer to the bed. This will make the plastic stick better to the bed. You can move the nozzle closer until the part is very difficult to remove from the build plate. Then you are too close.

- Increasing the temperature (maybe even just on the first layer). Sometimes the hotter plastic sticks better to the bed.

- Slowing the speed (maybe even just on the first layer)

- If you have a heated build plate, try increasing the temperature.

- Adding hairspray, etc (many people do this, but I've never done that)

- Add a high-tack build plate sticker sheet, like BuildTak (you can buy it at Amazon for example).

.. and probably a lot of other ways. In you case, it looks like your problem could be solved by moving the nozzle closer to the bed or just enabling a raft.

Best regards,
Stein :-)

skeeter

08-29-2017, 06:36 PM

Stein, as ALWAYS, thanks for your help. I did find settings on the printer for rafting, as well as supports.

skeeter

08-29-2017, 09:38 PM

Follwing a quick nap after getting home from work, I'm ready to RE-print the FRONT structure. This time with rafting, & some structural supports. 3Rd times a charm......HOPEFULLY :)

skeeter

08-30-2017, 12:06 AM

While awaiting the 3D printer to re-make the front support for the loader :cool: I tinkered in the garage a bit tonight. Made some cab mount brackets (NOT my idea, I borrowed it from someone else's build) for the Bruder Mack conversion. I made 4 of them, I think I ONLY need 2, but while I had the saw, miter box & file out (No fancy tools here, just basic hand tools ;) ) I may as well make 4 of them.............just in case I find I need to use more. :lol:
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4424/36737761752_d6215976e1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/XYoCDo)20170829_202052 (https://flic.kr/p/XYoCDo) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4410/36737756772_1c91512676.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/XYoBaw)20170829_201904 (https://flic.kr/p/XYoBaw) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

I also did the blade locks on the D5. I saw this idea in a SmallHaul :drool: youtube video. I WISH I could take credit for it. :o I liked the idea, so I borrowed it to incorporate into my build. :jump:
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4351/36099986783_9e5a5dd4c7.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/X12Sne)20170829_202140 (https://flic.kr/p/X12Sne) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

this makes the blade be able to swivel side to side, :) UNLIKE my original attempt, that was heavily glued :(

skeeter

08-30-2017, 12:43 AM

:o The Right Hand Side blade sway MOCK cylinder I kind of messed up on it. The drill bit walked off of center as I was drilling it. Since I have a FAILED earlier attempt, I have extra of those. sometime in the future, I'll RE-do it with one of the left overs from that project. LUCKILY, I'm a hoarder, & NEVER throw away ANYTHING, until I'm absolutely positive that I won't have a future use for it! Heck, I've still got parts laying around for nitro powered vehicles, & I HAVEN'T had those around in years! :cop:

skeeter

08-30-2017, 12:53 AM

our previous Co accusation, a haul truck. It's nothing fancy, & won't pull a full load, but it'd be what we got. Body is mounted on an old 3406 E=Traxxas Emaxx chassis.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4297/36134828216_94d30c00df.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/X47rvA)20170724_000054 (https://flic.kr/p/X47rvA) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

some pics of the build process
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4317/35784646850_c7557649ac.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WwaEMQ)20170724_000106 (https://flic.kr/p/WwaEMQ) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4304/36134826336_b81ec88e86.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/X47qXb)20170724_000124 (https://flic.kr/p/X47qXb) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4318/36134825146_73acb413fe.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/X47qAE)20170724_000252 (https://flic.kr/p/X47qAE) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4326/35784645660_84259308d4.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WwaErj)20170724_000311 (https://flic.kr/p/WwaErj) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on FlickrBody is mounted to CUSTOM fabricated mounts, & bolted with 3mm screws & nylock nuts.

skeeter

08-30-2017, 01:00 AM

The black semi will be getting the sleeper cut off, converting it to a day cab, SOMETIME this winter when work slows a bit. It will be built as a SUPER DUMP, dump truck. If you don't know what that is, here's a video of it. It even feature a company truck that is local to my area.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T-7mm9btEXE

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4323/36208341066_65eb53f9c7.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/XaBdjw)20170726_162200 (https://flic.kr/p/XaBdjw) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

This yellow King Hauler, acquired from Corbetttrailers will be converted to a logging truck...........also this winter when work slows. It as well will be converted to a day cab
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4363/36427367661_b577598868.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/XuXMi8)20170814_034507 (https://flic.kr/p/XuXMi8) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr
The 1:1
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4361/36239614472_714927ccc0.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/XdnuPb)images (https://flic.kr/p/XdnuPb) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr
The Ertl 1:24 scale version
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4408/36239614602_2d54afacc2.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/XdnuRq)ertl-weyerhaeuser-logging-truck-3006_1_627c7bca27114eca35d82c9a3b95641d (https://flic.kr/p/XdnuRq) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

08-30-2017, 01:06 AM

The fore mentioned Bruder Mack conversion
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4341/36310281922_be1d257986.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/XjBFMu)20170810_024851 (https://flic.kr/p/XjBFMu) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4354/36310281472_de6f6727b7.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/XjBFDJ)20170810_024900 (https://flic.kr/p/XjBFDJ) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

The cab trimmed to fit the motor & 2 speed WTBCarr planetary transmission
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4411/36081608340_f0f03ec7cf.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WYpF6w)20170810_024943 (https://flic.kr/p/WYpF6w) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

PERHAPS :thinking:some parking lot snow removal work may be in order this winter:)
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4403/36478570445_a8caf6d60e.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Xzud6K)20170810_025235 (https://flic.kr/p/Xzud6K) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4344/36478571105_33fb49e788.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Xzudi8)20170810_025116 (https://flic.kr/p/Xzudi8) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

08-30-2017, 08:08 PM

WOW! printing rafts, AND supports takes a LOT more time to do. What was taking around 5 hours, took OVER 8 hours last night to do! The extra time was well worth it! Although the raft FAILED the added supports made a HUGE difference! We already saw the pic I posted of the FIRST attempt. Here's attempts 2, & 3. #2 is the one I inserted rolled up tape where the supports were needed. Attempt 3 has the 3D printed supports still on it.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4422/36927857905_14e34d4351.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YgbVBg)20170830_155328 (https://flic.kr/p/YgbVBg) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

08-31-2017, 09:02 PM

ANYONE that's thinking of, or has got a XYZ PRO, & ran through the factory supplied filament, take note................It does NOT like ABS filament. :eek: I bought a $35 roll of ABS filament when I bought mine. I recently used up the supplied filament. :) I re-wound from the LARGE roll I bought, onto the SMALL .5KG roll that's supplied with the printer. I couldn't get it to even build a raft. :mad: it doesn't extrude it well. I tried max recommended, & several variations from there to the minimum temp settings & it wouldn't build a raft. I changed out the ABS with PLA, & it's printing again, as it SHOULD be. :bounce: The PLA is re-wound on the same spool, the SAME way as I did the ABS. Just thought I'd throw this out there for anyone that may be considering acquiring one of these machines. I know we all learn from others mistakes &/or failures around here.

skeeter

08-31-2017, 09:52 PM

I wonder if this comes with a DETACHABLE gooseneck?
http://www.ebay.com/itm/NEW-John-Deere-Big-Farm-Peterbilt-Model-367-w-Lowboy-Trailer-1-16-LP64456/382188614418?_trkparms=aid%3D333008%26algo%3DRIC.M BE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20140212121249%26meid%3Db68d99 d287fb49fd860622fd13798334%26pid%3D100102%26rk%3D2 %26rkt%3D4%26sd%3D351590378171&_trksid=p3693.c100102.m2452

skeeter

08-31-2017, 09:55 PM

YEP, it do, I THINK :) I JUST found this, it's pictured as detached.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/BIG-FARM-1-16-SCALE-MODEL-SEMI-WITH-TRAILER-LP64456/282304196184?_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIM.M BE%26ao%3D2%26asc%3D46089%26meid%3D5ed2bcd90ea64ea b919309ec306fa3dd%26pid%3D100005%26rk%3D5%26rkt%3D 6%26mehot%3Dpp%26sd%3D382188614418&_trksid=p2047675.c100005.m1851

RCP57

08-31-2017, 11:52 PM

skeeter

09-01-2017, 12:01 AM

I'm not sure if you have an Ertl truck but if not, be warned that they are a lot smaller than the Tamiya and Bruder trucks. I did a comparison video a few years ago here... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WfUw0onMKcE

Thanks you for the info.

No Ertl truck here, I just borrowed that pic for illustration purposes, as it is very close to what I hope to make the finished build look like.

skeeter

09-03-2017, 11:02 AM

NOT much to update on the builds. just been busy 3D printing parts.

skeeter

09-03-2017, 09:26 PM

Friday night, after work I fired up the printer before bed. Saturday was spent visiting with family, so not much happened that day, printing wise. I did start a part before leaving. When I returned home, I tried to do another part, but the extruder nozzle was plugged. Several Youtube videos & many hours later we were back running again. I started a part before going to bed.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4358/36203946153_ed5c5f8206.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/XadFSa)20170903_175200 (https://flic.kr/p/XadFSa) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

The bulky looking part is the front steering rack. it's made of 4 peices. A GREAT BIG THANK-YOU to Stein for posting the STL files. I liked what he did with the Man conversion so much,I'm going to try it with a Bruder Mack dump.

skeeter

09-03-2017, 09:30 PM

ONLY 8 parts have been printed this far this weekend. My printer is SLOW. If I weren't affraid of boogering up the finished parts, I'd try messing with the settings & speed it up a bit.

Currently there are 2 more parts in the printer, about 3/4 of the way done. one is only 5MM tall, & finished. The other, I haven't measured, but it's significantly taller on teh print bed, rough guess 1.25 inches tall.

skeeter

09-03-2017, 11:29 PM

Thanks you for the info.

No Ertl truck here, I just borrowed that pic for illustration purposes, as it is very close to what I hope to make the finished build look like.

WOW! I just watched the video. I DIDN"T realize there was such a great size difference between the 2, until I watched.

skeeter

09-04-2017, 12:52 PM

This 3D printing stuff sure is SLOW! I'm working on slowly increasing the print speeds. I just don't want to go too fast, & ruin the structural integrity of the part(S) Just a little over 10 hours of print time went in to these 2 front tires that will be for my 2ND Bruder Mack conversion project.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4414/37025639465_3161b0aac5.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YpQ5Ee)20170904_092356 (https://flic.kr/p/YpQ5Ee) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

09-04-2017, 07:54 PM

Somebody help me PLEASE! I just downloaded Fusion 360, I want to import a scan form XYZ BUILDER, the 3D scanning program that came with my 3D printer/Scanner/Laser all in one unit. The program DOESN'T offer an option to save as a IGES, SAT, SMT, or STEP files, or Fusion Documents, the files that Fusion 360 supports. How can I convert the 3D file to a format that Fusion 360 will like?

Finster

09-04-2017, 10:14 PM

It sort of depends on what files your 3d scanning program can produce. I would search for a file conversion program that can read whatever file format that program exports and can convert to something Fusion 360 can import. Hope that helps...

skeeter

09-04-2017, 10:26 PM

Makes perfect sense. Any suggestions?
XYZ scan, XZY build, & XYZ Pro ONLY offer options to save as STL, 3MF, OBJ, &/or DLY files. neither is supported by Fusion360

skeeter

09-04-2017, 10:27 PM

Any suggestions what to use to convert it?

Finster

09-04-2017, 10:55 PM

This should help
https://knowledge.autodesk.com/support/fusion-360/troubleshooting/caas/sfdcarticles/sfdcarticles/How-to-import-or-open-a-file-in-Autodesk-Fusion-360.html

skeeter

09-05-2017, 05:58 PM

Yes sir, it do, a little. I still don't get an option to upload to the cloud with the STL file though.

I think I'll have to watch some more tutorial videos before diving into this cad thing. It's tougher than I though it was going to be.

PrimeRigg

09-05-2017, 09:30 PM

there are 3d file converters online. just google 3d file converter

skeeter

09-05-2017, 10:27 PM

Well...................I was disappointed when I awoke this morning. While I was sleeping, the 3D printer ran out of filament. It was SO CLOSE. I awoke to use the bathroom, & saw it had an hour & a few minutes left on the print. I was happy it was going smoothly. I managed to get the print times down from a little over 5 hours down to 4.5 hours. I knew I'd have another part when I awoke. Since I smacked the snooze button too many times this morning, I didn't have time to do much, but get ready for work. When I got home, I see this gut wrenching sight
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4384/37055844555_7190d5d84c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YsuTzD)20170905_191102 (https://flic.kr/p/YsuTzD) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

I ran out of filament while printing this part. So close, yet so far away. Too bad I don't know of a way to pick up the printing process where it was left off.

Since I'm a bit of a tight @ss, I bought the LARGE spool of filament, & re-wind the smaller spool that came with the printer. 10 minutes after starting, my spool was full again, & I reloaded it into the machine. I just retrieved the finished part as I was typing this. Since I type SLOW (ONLY 4 fingers, 2 from @ hand) it takes me a bit to complete a typing task. She's callign DINNER TIME........have to go for now. I'll write more later

skeeter

09-05-2017, 11:24 PM

there are 3d file converters online. just google 3d file converter

Thank-You sir, I shall look into those, perhaps tomorrow. It's getting too late tonight, have to work in the morning.

skeeter

09-05-2017, 11:46 PM

Anyhow, back to what I was saying. This Polish hillbilly redneck can ONLY use 4 fingers to type with. I use 2 from each hand. The rest just seem to get in the way, & cause even more typo's then I already make.

On a positive note, When the printer ran out, & parts was incomplete this morning. it gave me a good reference for cleaning up the hex inserts in the other rims. So far, mess ups included.......between the front loader, & Mack conversion, I've got over 100 hours of 3D print time invested. ONLY about 65 is for the usable parts, & there's approximately 20-30 more hours left to go. ALL the parts for the front loader conversion are printed. Those, along with the Mack parts all need to go through the final clean ups before they are ready to use. I've been told that our workload should slow down at the end of this month, or shortly after the first of next month. I, for once am anxious for the slow down. I FINALLY have enough projects in the garage to keep my mind occupied, & stay busy for the long slow winter to come!

On a separate note, the wildfires here in WA state are producing so much ash & smoke, eyes are itchy, & watery. When I awoke this morning to start the car it was lightly dusted with ash. Wish I had time to take pics.....Even if I did, it was dark out & not much would have showed up with my crappy camera phone. I did, however think to snap this pic today at work. This snap was taken this morning, 9-5-17 at around 8:15AM from the worksite in Des Moines WA, looking due east into the morning sun. There's so much smoky haze, that I was looking directly into the sun while this snap was taken
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4395/36915684541_4fbf76b942.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Yf7wTF)20170905_081816 (https://flic.kr/p/Yf7wTF) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

09-06-2017, 09:37 PM

:cool: ONLY 2 more parts to print, & the 3D printing for the Bruder Mack truck, & Bruder Liebherr 574 front loader will be completely printed! :bounce: I'll have to post pics of the whole lot together, BEFORE they are cleaned up for assembly.

frizzen

09-06-2017, 10:04 PM

Looks like a heck of a fire! I'd probably be asking around if they need help digging firebreaks.

Glad the parts are coming together. Stay safe up there.

skeeter

09-06-2017, 11:19 PM

Looks like a heck of a fire! I'd probably be asking around if they need help digging firebreaks.

Glad the parts are coming together. Stay safe up there.

The fires are far enough away, I'm safe. :) The closest to me is approximately a 2 hour drive away, or an hour as the crow flies, & is burning away from me. I just have to deal with the smoke, & the ash fallout. The area it's in is mainly vacation cabins, & unpopulated. I feel for those that have assets in that are that are being turned to ashes. It's been a rough fire season this year. First time in a very long time I can remember fires of this magnitude West of the Rocky Mountains, in Wa State. :jaw:

I'm glad the parts are almost all printed as well. I know this winter I'll appreciate that I did them ahead of time, rather then waiting impatiently for them to get outta the printer. I'll be even more glad, once I have tinkered with it a bit more, & have a better grasp with CAD!:bounce:

skeeter

09-07-2017, 11:05 PM

D@M IT! :mad: I though I was almost done with 3D part printing for a bit......................................BUT...... .............When I checked them out, the Front Body for the front loader had warped a bit. The holes in it DIDN'T match with the template holes:lol: SO....I cranked up the heated print bed more, added a larger diameter raft, & try AGAIN:)

I tinkered with the servo mounting system that will drive the D11 today. I WANTED to use the BLUE one, but it was too big to fit inside against the back wall of the dozer. :(
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Redcat-Blue-Aluminum-Servo-Mount-Rampage-Dunerunner-Rally-MT-TT/332071966848?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4380/36953315131_bb58ab94bd.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Yirp9X)20170907_190102 (https://flic.kr/p/Yirp9X) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

Instead, I used some that I had previously purchased from robotshop.com, OR was it ServoCity.com..........IDK, can't remember right now.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4331/37094908455_a474bcaf48.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YvX6Va)20170907_185648 (https://flic.kr/p/YvX6Va) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr
That's a METAL gear Savox servo there. I had a few that were bad. The potentiometers went bad in them. they WOULDN'T move at all. I disassembled them, removed the pottent, & the motors still worked. Now I'll have to use a Sabertooth 2X5 to run them. that's alright, I got a few on hand here. I may also need to add another mount plate to those 2, to get the drive sprocket in the right position with the tracks. I used 2, & put them together with M3X8mm countersunk screws. :confused: Yeah, I know buttonhead screws are more typical for this, but I didn't want them protruding too far out, so went this route. :)
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4331/37094908455_a474bcaf48.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YvX6Va)20170907_185648 (https://flic.kr/p/YvX6Va) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

Here's some pics of the latest company acquisition, an ERTL 1:16 log skidder. She's in rough shape now, & needs a bit of work from the 3D printer before she's ready for work. You know how them @sshats with the Department of Labor & Industries are, safety this, safer that. Personally I kind of like it WITHOUT the top! It fits right in around here, with our Polish hilbilly redneck equipment. :lol:
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4380/37094906755_a67a34858b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YvX6pR)20170907_161017 (https://flic.kr/p/YvX6pR) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4365/37094917355_0fc982e74c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YvX9yB)20170907_160945 (https://flic.kr/p/YvX9yB) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4442/37094907695_f26353bc63.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YvX6G4)20170907_155756 (https://flic.kr/p/YvX6G4) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

I'm thinking a 3D printed cab, 4 new tires, & rims too. The tires aren't that bad, but I don't think they'll be good once separated from the beat up, cracked, & broken rims that are on it now...................:confused: IDK, still on the fence about this project. I may just toss it........not sure yet. IDK how I can make the NON motorized winch on the *** end function as it needs to for an RC skidder. Also I know a solution for the drive, but it would ONLY be 2WD. Figuring out a front drive system...............................may be hard to do.

skeeter

09-07-2017, 11:12 PM

I ALMOST :o forgot to post the pics of the cheap Chinese excavator:jaw: I FINALLY remembered to take a pic of it. I think with 4 new Firgeli actuators it'll work well enough for this outfit. It's not quite scale in the cab area.......................perhaps once I get a grip on CAD I can make one that's more suitable to scale. :bounce:
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4343/37094906185_7eb6dcb042.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YvX6f2)20170907_190749 (https://flic.kr/p/YvX6f2) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

09-07-2017, 11:28 PM

:eek: One final comment before I turn in for the night. PLA sticks better to the build plate (Well, in my experience, with my XYZ Pro 3D printer) than does ABS. I'm not sure why. Anyone that's more experienced with 3D printing know why? :confused: The ABS, & the PLA parts I've printed have ALL been printed on the same bed tape, same rafts, (actually with the PLA I found it's not necessary for rafting, nor a heated print bed) same supports, same temps, & identical printer settings. Actually I even tried turning up the temp(s) a bit with the ABS, & haven't been able to make it adhere as well to the printbed as the PLA.

frizzen

09-08-2017, 06:55 AM

skeeter

09-09-2017, 12:35 AM

Who dropped a tree across the skidders hood?

Skidder winch, still have any more broken servos? Make drum, mount to servo. Wrap fake drum with same cable you use, mount servo and drum below body.

Since it's articulated, why not do a 4 motor, 2 esc setup like steinhdans bruder loader conversion with the 3d printer files?

Can the model pass for the early ones that had no roof or ROPS? From back when your operating position was a steel seat on a spring because "why are you whining? the rest of the crew doesn't even get to sit!"

IDK who did that, at the previous outfit, we acquired it from auction that way. Whomever it was, I would think they got sh!t canned for such f#@ktardery.

ALWAYS have broken servo's laying around. :) NEVER know if/when can use a part from a busted one to resuscitate life back into one that recently took a dump. I LIKE you'r idea for the winch, :cool: & shall go that route.

The front drive, I don't believe is friendly (space wise) to doing that with it. I'll have to look at it again. I don't think there's enough room to place the motors in it, without some serious fabrication work to the pot metal. I'd do it now(look at it & see)......but after a 13 hour shift, PLUS morons playing bumper cars & CLOSING the freeway for my commute home, OH, AND couple that with traffic for the State Fair :jump: :rolleyes:.................I'm calling it a day.

I think she's a bit too new of iron for the good ole days set up. No title on the old heap, got it for scrap price, but I'm guessing early to mid 80's model.

Ya know, the more I :thinking: about it, the more I think I may be able to do a set up like Stein used for his loader for this....................IF I cheat the tubing & place the pivot mount hole very near the top of axle:thinking:

Frizzen, I could give you a great big ole kiss right now! you're a freaking GENIUS, :bounce: or I'm a dumb@ss :o for NOT visualizing that. :lol: ESPECIALLY since I have a build in the works of a loader that uses that very system on it! :jaw: I need to think OUTSIDE the box more often. I got so use to Traxxas & the OEM parts, couple that with newish to figuring out ways to convert things that aren't READILY available in the RC world:o

frizzen

09-09-2017, 01:19 AM

You've seen what stuff i build. Can't think inside the box, it was thrown away like 30+ years before i was born!

Servo winches work in my crane, and most of the smaller cable machines on the site. Either hack the stock board or get a baby esc. I'd just use the stock drum location as a pulley to drop the line to the hidden drum.

I'd just get some square or rectangle brass stock and solder, just make an ugly simple ROPS, maybe slap a roof on top that's not quite square. A tree fell on it busted up the cab and hood, the welder just cut off the mangled original and 'bubba-ed' this together to finish work before the cutting permit expired. Do you want original, or personality? Makes it look mean.

A lived in world with some grime is more interesting to look at than where everything is new and box stock. Perfect and new have their place, but if it works for a living it's not a trailer queen.

skeeter

09-09-2017, 05:29 PM

Yeppers, I concur. Stuff that has some character is better than shiny new stuff. It's also more fun to build too.

I like the idea fir using the existing winch drum as an additional fairlead, & will be going that route with this project, as well as the idea of the cab too.

Once I get done waiting in line at the Department of Vehicle Licensing, (long story.......sold brother a vehicle 2 years ago, he lost the title. I acquired the necessary paperwork so he could Xfer it 3 days ago. I misplace it, so I'm back AGAIN, waiting in the hour plus long lines) I'm going to double check the front axle & see if I can skeeterfy a front drive system, soon as I get home.

I FULLY concur with the work isn't a trailer queen. I find it funny, some people at work, they keep the inside of their work trucks looking as they did on the dealership showroom floor. It's a frigen WORK truck, NOT a show truck, or a brand spanking new truck! LOL!

skeeter

09-09-2017, 10:51 PM

:bounce: YIPPIE! I checked, & there, with a little redneck engineering, will be room to do a front wheel drive system in the skidder.

skeeter

09-10-2017, 09:45 AM

Between Friday, & Saturday's mail, I got a truck load of packages delivered me. Time for some pics! :bounce:As we all know :worthless:

As threatened, here's ALL the 3D printed parts for the ALL PLASTIC Bruder Mack conversion. One front tire has the bearing installed in it already.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4421/36971281502_21a03e7e24.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Yk2tVY)20170909_165352 (https://flic.kr/p/Yk2tVY) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

Here's the lucky candidate that's been selected for the conversion. The dump box on it is much LONGER then the other Mack conversion I've in the works.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4343/36306402644_ded87c3a56.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/XjgNBo)20170909_173008 (https://flic.kr/p/XjgNBo) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

MAGOM HRC delivered me some parts for the D11. They DON'T offer ALL the parts for us self conversion types, but will throw us a bone.............................WELL, that's what I thought anyways! I ordered the Conversion hubs for the stock Bruder track sprockets. When I installed them, I noticed that I DON'T have a motor with a large enough shaft to fit them. Even the 4 or 5mm shafts of gear motors WON'T fill that hole.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4427/36953473776_5febbc74c2.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Yisdjd)20170908_205236 (https://flic.kr/p/Yisdjd) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

Here's a pic to show the gear motor shaft sixe, & the diameter of the motor mount hole in Mr Magom's mount.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4363/36971282172_6a660cafdf.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Yk2u8w)20170908_205334 (https://flic.kr/p/Yk2u8w) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

Luckily for me, I've learned to NEVER order only the parts I (THINK) need, but order back up plans with th em as well. So here's the back up plan. Magom aluminum D11 drive sprockets. They are suppose to mount to a continuous servo. All the servo adaptors I have (Sorry I forgot to snap pics of this part :worthless: ) won't match up with the holes. That's alright, I think I may have found a work around, with my Polish Hilbilly Redneck engineering! It's only about 1mm each side that the holes are off. Rather then have holes in the servo adapter, I'll have slots. Simple as just dremmeling into the holes with cutoff saw to make them slots.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4406/36971283242_35536d811d.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Yk2urY)20170908_204124 (https://flic.kr/p/Yk2urY) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

Well, that's all the time I have for now. I've got to run to the brotyhers place, & hand off that release of interest...................BEFORE I missplace that d@m thing AGAIN.

skeeter

09-10-2017, 09:51 AM

F@#k me running! I spent over an hour, hunting & pecking out that message with this d@m keyboard, & thought I was careful to double check it, ONLY to hit post, & find typos :(

skeeter

09-10-2017, 11:02 PM

To keep this thread from being :worthless: Here's the pics I forgot to snap the other day.

Here's the Servo hub, after I modified it to work with the Magom D11 aluminum drive sprocket. Also a pic without the second screw installed, to HOPEFULLY show the distance that the 3mm screw holes are off from working with this servo hub as it comes from the factory. In the pic with one screw installed, the servo hub has been pushed all the way to where it WOULD have set, had I not modified the holes to make em work.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4437/37156956555_deebd72b0f.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YBr7DZ)20170910_192648 (https://flic.kr/p/YBr7DZ) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4392/37014566931_315255e673.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YoRkbt)20170910_192721 (https://flic.kr/p/YoRkbt) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

09-18-2017, 11:00 PM

I've been busy working like there's no tomorrow lately. Today, due to a massive rain storm, work let out early. :) I put the time to good use tinkering in the garage, & worked on the Bruder D5 conversion a bit. :bounce:

Here's the idea for the new drive sprocket mounts I came up with. I'm awaiting parts to mount them to the servo's
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4362/37173995411_c91d797b19.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YCWrHn)unnamed (https://flic.kr/p/YCWrHn) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

This is the idea I've borrowed for the updated drive motors. They WEREN'T continuous servos, so I had to modify them so they would be. I chose this servo because it's got a 25 tooth spline, & I can readily buy servo mounts that fit it. :)
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4338/36479204814_19b39bedf3.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/XzxsF9)unnamed (1) (https://flic.kr/p/XzxsF9) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

09-18-2017, 11:15 PM

One more pic, showin how much material was trimmed from the original drive sprockets. 11.62mm, according to the cheap harbor freight digital caliper I've got. I trimmed it with a 24TPI hobby saw. It wouldn't fit into the miter box I've got, so I free handed it.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4382/37174200471_248d4f0596.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YCXuET)unnamed (2) (https://flic.kr/p/YCXuET) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

I used a hole ream bit to enlarge the center hole of these 25tooth servo hubs. i enlarged them just enough that they would pass over the hole. Once they were large enough, I used RED locktite to insert 2 screws in them. I placed the screws into the sprocket, & attached the hub to the sprocket with epoxy. :lol: These sprockets should be better centered than the previous attempt. After the epoxy had dried, i used a 15/64 drill bit to make the hole of the drive sprocket large enough that a 3mm button head screw could pass through the center. I DIDN'T have a 6mm drill bit, so I used what I had that would do the job. :cop: I had to forego power tools for this, as this made the walls really thin! I hand drilled them, then fitted the servo hub back onto it. HOPEFULLY once the other parts arrive, & I can put ti together, it'll function as intended!

skeeter

09-19-2017, 10:18 PM

I got home today, & had a metric tone of parts awaiting me from www.robotshop.com ! :bounce: I didn't have much time to tinker tonight, :( but I did do a little bit. :) I got the D11, & D5 drive sprockets mounted to their servo hubs. On the D11, I had to enlarge the holes to 4.5mm, so I could make them mount to Mr Magom's drive sprockets. :mad:
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4342/36523790823_ff427a5cb1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/XDtYxr)unnamed (3) (https://flic.kr/p/XDtYxr) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4399/37193504501_1a3d5aa9d5.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YEEr5Z)unnamed (5) (https://flic.kr/p/YEEr5Z) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

Showing the Polish Hillybilly Redneck engineering I used to make the hubs mount to Mr Magon's drive sprockets.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4388/36939132190_daf6f4dbd3.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YhbH4u)unnamed (4) (https://flic.kr/p/YhbH4u) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4424/36498734964_8683b50518.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/XBgyiS)unnamed (6) (https://flic.kr/p/XBgyiS) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

ALSO, there were a bunch of fergeli actuators that are for varying proects. :jaw:The Bruder front loader conversion will get 3, the D11 will get the 2 large ones, & the remaining will be used for the Hunya excavator improvements. I had a brain fart, & FORGOT to order the PROPER amount for the excavator, :eek: SO................I'll have to order one more to be able to do that project.

skeeter

09-19-2017, 11:30 PM

I left in a hurry for it was dinner time. I forgot to post the pics of all the actuators that came today. There's so much work here, my shop foreman, seen in the upper right hand corner, had a fit like a 2 year old, slithering on the floor, laughing, then crying, then cursing, & throwing things. It was a sight to see.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4418/37193504071_f02f2840c0.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YEEqXz)unnamed (7) (https://flic.kr/p/YEEqXz) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

09-20-2017, 10:03 PM

when I arrived home today, there was a box from www.servocity.com :bounce:
I knew Ihad ordered it, but wasn't expecting it for a few more days.

I noticed that with the previous D11 servo hubs, I had a slight rubbing issue. The mounting screws lightly rubbed on the (MODIFIED) continuous servo. The new servo horns are slightly diffent from the ones I installed yesterday. https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4385/37215043951_11e6c391bb.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YGyQ1P)unnamed (8) (https://flic.kr/p/YGyQ1P) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

The NEW servo horns installed. I still had to slightly enlarge the mounting holes in them, but NOT as drastic as their predecessors. This time I used the dremmel (knock off cheap Harbor Freight) tool, & slightly elongated the holes.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4376/37215042511_f1e41abd9f.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YGyPzZ)unnamed (9) (https://flic.kr/p/YGyPzZ) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

The NEW horns, with the yesterdays version shown,
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4384/37215041531_a9aa8ded18.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YGyPi6)unnamed (10) (https://flic.kr/p/YGyPi6) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

09-20-2017, 10:22 PM

I ALSO had an envelope from Hong Kong awaiting me. I knew from the tracking # what it was. It was the pins for the Bruder front end loader conversion. :cool:
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4357/37185648712_f7b41a5985.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YDYaQm)unnamed (11) (https://flic.kr/p/YDYaQm) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

I bought them on Ebay. I received an envelope, with the ORIGINAL tracking number, on the 12th. When I opened the package, it was empty, :confused: sans a note that explained they had production problems, & weren't able to ship my order. :mad: Note also said it would be shipped within a few days. Imagine my disappointment, I waited a month, then a package that I'm anxiously awaiting arrives,......... I open it & find it's EMPTY!:confused: Why not send an E-mail, explaining the issue to me, rather then an EMPTY package? I fired off an E-mail to the seller inquiring when I could anticipate the parts arrival. They gave me the updated tracking # that would have the actual shipment in it, & said the package was already in route to me.

Said pins FINALLY arrived me today. They are 20, 20, & 5 quantity packs. It was CHEAPER to order them this way, than to ONLY order what I needed. :jaw: :confused: Looking at the bright side, I've enough left over I can do a few for family, &/or friends. :D Just have to fire up the 3D printer & make more parts! :LOL:

I've ONLY done this ONCE before, but I had to leave neutral feedback for the transaction! I left a score of 5 for Item as described, a score of 2 for sellers communication, & a score of 3 for item quickly shipped. IF/had the seller sent me an E-mail to tell me of the issue(s) I would have left for them POSITIVE feedback of 5 stars all the way around. Am I wrong for thinking this way?

skeeter

09-21-2017, 12:06 AM

One more pic, before I slip off to dreamland for the night. in the ServoCity package there were several of these in there. I ordered a few more, as I think I will need 2-4 more when I mount the D11 sprockets & servos to the unit.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4362/36547543753_c13d3097a5.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/XFzHsH)unnamed (12) (https://flic.kr/p/XFzHsH) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

frizzen

09-21-2017, 06:11 PM

Looks like you'll be busy for a while.

skeeter

09-21-2017, 08:11 PM

Looks like you'll be busy for a while.

Yes, sir! Just awaiting work to slow for the winter months. :bounce: This is the FIRST time in a LONG time that I'm anxious for the winter slow down to get here. USUALLY I'm that guy that volunteers for weekend work, & additional after hours work, takes the job(s) that others complain about (The job last over 8 hours in a day:rolleyes:) & loves to get 65-80 hours on each weeks paycheck.:D I usually hate winter time since work slows down to 15ish hours worked per week.

skeeter

09-22-2017, 07:36 PM

Stayed home sick today. There's no way I'm going to drive that d@m truck, while throwing up. Between praying to the porcelain gods, sleeping, shivering, & cold sweats, I needed SOMETHING to do. I found these sanding stick on www.cults3D.com , & decided to give them a go. I need these for when I do projects, anyway, so..............why not make them now.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4421/37205908676_d256b74acd.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YFL1q5)unnamed (13) (https://flic.kr/p/YFL1q5) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

Somehow, between boughs of projectile vomiting, I was able to go to the homedumpster to acquire the needed 4mm bolts, & nuts. The description on cults says hey are printable as well, but I didn't find the files for them. As usual, homedumpster (read that Home Depot) DIDN'T have enough of what I needed. I found 2 packs labeled to copntain 4 each of 4mm bolts. One of which was opened, & ONLY (they knocked the price down from $.89 to $.50) had 3 in it. The nuts, they ONLY had a 16 pack of them that weren't nylocks.

14 hours after I cranked up the 3D printer, I have a set of sanding sticks. There are more that were printed, but I'm being a lazy @ss today, & didn't take pics of them. For that matter, they are not yet assembled, nor ready for assembly. They still need cleaning up before I can assemble em.

On a positive note, I did swing by KFC & grab a meal. I managed to ingest half of it. HOPEFULLY it doesn't get expelled. So far so good. tummy isn't flip flopping no more, like it was.

skeeter

09-22-2017, 08:08 PM

After the shop foreman had his hissy fit last week,due to the heavy work load in the shop right now, I decided it was time to re-assign him. He has been a good employee, but doesn't do well with heavy stress load like being the shop foreman. He'll be my new operator, & will help out around the shop as needed. Not being solely responsible for the shop activities should help calm him down......I HOPE! He's being replaced by this cat, who's in the process of relocating here from Michigan. Hopefully he'll be able to start in about a week or less.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Bruder-62100-bWorld-Man-with-Repair-Shop-Accessories-New-Factory-Sealed-/272403860014?epid=691451895&hash=item3f6c890a2e:g:FGMAAOSwujBZwnSE

skeeter

09-22-2017, 08:14 PM

We acquired a NEW piece of equipment today. It's being shipped from the auction block now. Hopefully with a little bit of work, it'll be ready to run with the rest of the fleet this winter!
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Bruder-CAT-Delta-Loader-/282643395268?hash=item41cedbf2c4:g:IoYAAOSw9YNZseC Y

skeeter

09-22-2017, 08:23 PM

This cute lil thang walked into my office today, & asked if I had any driving jobs available. I told her to try back once she was mended.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Bruder-62710-Ambulance-Figure-Playset-New-Factory-Sealed-/332387232007?hash=item4d63d2a907:g:W0AAAOSwufpZxBa 2

skeeter

09-22-2017, 09:05 PM

I called her, after she had left, & told her to call this cat. He may need some help.
http://www.rctruckandconstruction.com/showthread.php?p=158164#post158164

skeeter

09-23-2017, 05:44 PM

Well,I hit a snag with this project. turns out the servo I selected to use for teh drive motors has a b@stard bolt that attached the servo horn to it. The bolt is 2.3mm. The LHS ONLY offers 2.5, & 3mm bolts. Needing a longer bolt, I had to do something. I opted to use a 3mm button head screw. This meant I had to drill out, & tap new threads into the servo.

Here's a few pics to show it fits together. Also HOPEFULLY, a video too. IDk for sure if the vid will show up. Flicker claims they can do video, but I've never seen anyone link one, nor have I tried to link one from there before. We'll find out if it works or not!

WELL..................I can't figure out how to get video to upload to flicker, so I'll try YouTube.

Here's a pic showing what I had to trim to get this piece to fit over the screw that holds the servo in place.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4380/37224647656_78a05cc03c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YHq3RW)unnamed (14) (https://flic.kr/p/YHq3RW) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4385/37271379501_cb19bf6a69.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YMxyBp)unnamed (15) (https://flic.kr/p/YMxyBp) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

HOPEFULLY I can get the video to upload to YouTube, to show that the proof of concept works.

skeeter

09-23-2017, 05:48 PM

I THINK I figured it out, here's the flicker video link to prove that the concept works.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/shares/5EhE37

One side down, one to go. I have made a jig, so that the other side will be EXACTLY the same!

skeeter

09-23-2017, 05:52 PM

The potentiometer, & travel limiter are removed from that servo to make it a continuous serve. I'll have to install a Sabertooth 2X5 to run this model. I like this set up BETTER than the previous attempt. I like that it DOESN'T require screws be added to the Bruder sprocket to make it grip the tracks! :)

The above video was shot WITHOUT a speed controller, just a 6V battery supply to the servo motor.

I think this setup will work quite well for this conversion :bounce: FINALLY, I figured it out!

skeeter

09-23-2017, 08:43 PM

I tinkered around some more in the garage. Got the other servo hacked to a continuous servo, & then installed into the Bruder D5 conversion.

Also here's the pic of the jig I made so both side are identical on the conversion

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4465/36604263743_384c579331.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/XLAqkz)unnamed (18) (https://flic.kr/p/XLAqkz) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4508/37416286145_ddd8392ed6.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Z1mfiP)unnamed (19) (https://flic.kr/p/Z1mfiP) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

I FORGOT to reverse the + and - wires on one of the servo's, so when I plugged them in, one ran reverse, while the other ran forward. No worries, I'll reverse the polarity of one of them when I hook it to the Sabertooth.

skeeter

09-23-2017, 08:49 PM

So far, due to Photobutt being @sshats, & holding EVERYONE'S photo's at ransom, :cop: this build has been a challenge. There isn't much left for reference, without being able to see the failures/success of others build projects. HOPEFULLY the D11 goes off without a hitch, :) as it's Much costlier to booger it up, & have to order a new model to start over with:eek:

Bo Wallen

09-23-2017, 09:14 PM

skeeter

09-23-2017, 09:53 PM

Almost ALL of the links to photobucket poics I can't see anymore. I was able to view a few by doing ~original after the JPEG, when I quoted, but that was the ONLY way I've found that I can view them. It's too much to quote everything, just to see if the pics in that section are pics I'd be highly interested in for the builds I have going. Other forums are the same. Photobutt holding pictures ransom for $$$$

skeeter

09-23-2017, 10:20 PM

Skeeter What are you talking about. Photobucket Ransom ???

Check this out.
Here, I qouted them, with ~original added after the JPEG, & the pics show up
http://www.rctruckandconstruction.com/showthread.php?p=158403#post158403

Here's the original post that they came from, but the opics DON'T show up
http://www.rctruckandconstruction.com/newreply.php?do=newreply&p=150387

Photobutt is holding pics at ransom for $$$$$$

Bo Wallen

09-23-2017, 10:31 PM

I can see all picture from day one except picture deleted or moved by the person that posted them. and all your pic. too

skeeter

09-23-2017, 10:39 PM

I use Flicker, it DOESN'T........................YET demand we pay to be able to link our pics to 3rd party sites.

Bo Wallen

09-23-2017, 10:51 PM

I use Flicker, it DOESN'T........................YET demand we pay to be able to link our pics to 3rd party sites.

Just wait they will charge an arm and a leg soon Yahoo is the owner.
I'm using Flickr for right now. Going to change that hopefully before they burn.:cop:

skeeter

09-23-2017, 11:28 PM

Just wait they will charge an arm and a leg soon Yahoo is the owner.
I'm using Flickr for right now. Going to change that hopefully before they burn.:cop:

What will you be changing to? I'm curious to know, before Flicker explodes like Photobutt did.

skeeter

09-28-2017, 11:10 PM

It's been long days at work this week, (I'll take ALL the hours I can get now, cause I know they'll dry up in a few more weeks) already got almost 48 hours in for this week, after a 10 hour day today. Since it wasn't a terribly long day, I opened a ton of mail that had accumulated this week. I didn't take pictures of it. The new servo mounted winch spools for the log skidder arrived today. I'll have to modify them a bit, to make them work, but my Dremmel, & I can make it happen. ALSO, both of my new employees started work today. Perhaps tomorrow, or this weekend, I'll snap a few pics of the winch spools.

skeeter

09-30-2017, 02:09 PM

60.95 hours this week, I LOVE it! Show me the $$$ ! Here's pics to accompany previous post

The new servo mounted winch drums
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4367/23561225288_417cfc5820.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/BU2rqd)unnamed (https://flic.kr/p/BU2rqd) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

Showing the modifications done to them with the dremel tool
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4347/36703914494_fcdcef1f15.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/XVpa2Y)unnamed (1) (https://flic.kr/p/XVpa2Y) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

The new crew members
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4502/23561609008_32ce9899b5.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/BU4pu5)unnamed (2) (https://flic.kr/p/BU4pu5) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

The newest candidate for RC conversion
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4418/36743270193_fd6e8bc5fb.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/XYSS7v)unnamed (3) (https://flic.kr/p/XYSS7v) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

09-30-2017, 02:12 PM

The tracked loader was inexpensive from www.RuralKing.com . So inexpensive, that I bought two. Seems that I always mess up the first try, so this way I have the 2nd attempt already here.

Hostile

09-30-2017, 07:00 PM

Nice haul skeet! Doing well on your projects. Love it mate!

skeeter

09-30-2017, 08:09 PM

Nice haul skeet! Doing well on your projects. Love it mate!

Soon as the wintertime slowdown gets here, I'll be getting going on the Bruder Mack conversion. I've already got the cab mounts made.....the ones that you came up with.

skeeter

10-01-2017, 02:44 AM

Well.............Having today off I did a little tinkering in the shop. I got a little more done on the Bruder D5 conversion. I crafted this part to re-seal the unit. I had to cut a bit away to fit the drive servos in place. I DON'T want a bunch of mud/dirt/debris getting into it, so I came up with this. Shoe Goo holds it all together.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4364/36753182053_c87b87d3dd.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/XZKEyD)unnamed (6) (https://flic.kr/p/XZKEyD) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

The former shop foreman, here's his new home. He's installed into the seat with double sided stick tape. I DON'T want him to leave that cab, & have another tantrum. Doing so may run off the rest of the hired help.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4502/36753182273_e96732996f.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/XZKECr)unnamed (4) (https://flic.kr/p/XZKECr) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

Here's the inside of the dozer. I re-used the weight from the FAILED attempt I did before. Also The 3D YELLOW grill, is cut to accept a servo. I HOPE to use the servo to lift the blade. Right now the yellow grill is temporary, while fitting everything together. It's yellow because that's the filament that was loaded in the 3D printer at the time of printing it. Later, once I get everything exactly figured out, I'll re-print it in BLACK so it looks more like the 1:1. A big Thank-You goes out to NebraskaTrevor for the STL file of the D5 grill!
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4468/37376649816_993f0529de.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YWR6NQ)unnamed (7) (https://flic.kr/p/YWR6NQ) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

Remember those sanding blocks I printed a bit back? Well I thought they were too lengthy. So.....................I cut them in the miter box with the wood saw. I couldn't justify wasting ALL that time & material to throw them away, so I modified them POST print!
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4340/37376649996_1e09c2bd7a.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YWR6RW)unnamed (5) (https://flic.kr/p/YWR6RW) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

10-01-2017, 10:58 PM

With this style battery holder,
http://www.ebay.com/itm/2Pcs-Wired-Connector-2-3-4X1-5V-AA-Battery-Holder-Plastic-Case-Storage-Box-Black-/142507002526?var=&hash=item212e144a9e:m:m3-JR9yTl30MrCHVOhee4yg
If I attach a charger to it, can I charge the batteries while in the holder. I ask as I would like to keep the batteries inside the D5 Bruder conversion, rather then have to remove them to charge them. OR, if you guys have a better suggestion, I'm all ears. I already know I'll be placing a charge port on this thing. It's easier to open than stock, but will still be a PITA to open JUST to change/charge batteries.

skeeter

10-01-2017, 11:13 PM

Today, after a short work day (Rare that they let us work on Sundays, as they DON'T want to pay the DOUBLE time :( ) I made a little more progress on the Bruder D5 conversion. :) I DON'T have anymore HiTech servos like I used for the drive motors. They're on a SLOW boat from China. So.............I mocked up the blade lift with a Traxxas mini servo. https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4469/37443962251_8a0dbdbd91.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Z3N6s4)unnamed (8) (https://flic.kr/p/Z3N6s4) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

I found an issue! I'll have to make a spacer to mount between the servo & the grill, to make clearance room. The linkage binds on it's self. I think if I add a spacer to push the servo into the grill farther, I can overcome this hurdle.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4464/37396252886_9d6b3e93d5.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YYzz7N)unnamed (9) (https://flic.kr/p/YYzz7N) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

Now I have to await the rechargeable batteries, holders, & on-off switch to arrive on the fore mentioned SLOW boat. Once I get all these goodies, I'll hopefully have this model buttoned up within a few hours! :bounce: I intend to mount the On/Off switch at the rear of the operators compartment, behind the drivers LEFT hand side. I think there's a good opportunity to place it there, & have ease of access to route the wiring. Also it'll be easy to turn on & off there.

skeeter

10-04-2017, 02:23 AM

Well...............Since work decided that I get to work graveyard shift tomorrow, I get to stay up all night re-adjusting my sleep schedule. :( So..................I figured I'd start on the Leibherre wheeled loader. :) I already have all the 3D parts printed for it, & everything I need on hand for it. I'd finish the D5, but I'm still awaiting the slow boat from China to bring the remaining arts for it. :confused:

I'll be using the design Stein posted in his build thread, but with my own twist to it. Feeling that this loader needs a little more weight to it, I'll be adding weight to the tires. For now, I'll be adding half a pound to EACH wheel. :confused: HOPEFULLY that will be enough? The weight will be epoxied in place to prevent lead exposure. HOPEFULLY I'll get a ways along with this conversion tonight. The lead is solid core 1/4 inch fishing weight. I unrolled it, measured it, & cut it in half. I DIDN'Tweight it. I figured as long as it's relatively close, it should be fine for hobby usage. :cop:

a pic showing the before/after shots of the weighted wheels.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4459/36778314364_f2815be3e8.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Y2Ytwm)unnamed (11) (https://flic.kr/p/Y2Ytwm) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

SteinHDan

10-04-2017, 05:34 AM

skeeter

10-04-2017, 06:23 AM

Well................I DIDN'T have all the stuff I thought I had. I had it all, but DIDN'T have enough of everything! The wheels I used ALL the epoxy that was suppose to do the WHOLE project, just to do the rear wheels. Even then, I fell short of materials. The 4mm Screws I have, AREN'T long enough to pass through the wheels, let alone the adapter plates. I did what I could, with what I had.

Each wheel took around 6 U.S. Ounces of epoxy to fill. I had planned for 3Oz. per wheel. I thought I had some more of it from a previous project. I DID, but it wasn't any good. It had hardened in the bottles, it was so old. Here's what I got done, with the supplies I had. One wheel is completed. The other still needs about 2Oz. more to finish.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4458/36780861434_d58cab6082.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Y3cwFm)unnamed (12) (https://flic.kr/p/Y3cwFm) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

I got the holes all drilled into the rear axle. I used blue Lock-tite on the mounting hubs to the motors. Pictures beside this is the lead I bought to use for the wheel weights. One spool does 2 wheels at a half a pound per wheel.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4481/37442741976_e1a378725e.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Z3FQGQ)unnamed (14) (https://flic.kr/p/Z3FQGQ) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4464/37459520182_b2857f1bc0.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Z5aQhf)unnamed (13) (https://flic.kr/p/Z5aQhf) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

The motors I intend to use are 12V 80RPM motors. They may be a bit fast for this project BUT..............they are what I have laying around. I figured I'd put them to use. Long story on how I ended up with 30 of them. I ordered them form Deal Extreme. I paid with PayPal. the website said my payment DIDN'T go through. I looked at the online bank statement, & it didn't show the PayPal transaction, 30 minutes after I made it. I re-sent the payment. The website STILL said it DIDN'T process. 30 minutes later, after STILL not seeing a PayPal transaction, I re-sent payment AGAIN. Once again, the website said the payment didn't process. At this point I gave up, & went to sleep for the night. the next morning, I awake to find 3 PayPal transactions had cleared. I also had 3 emails form Deal Extreme, stating that my order was processed. No worries, I thought, I'll get my 10 motors I ordered. Fast forward a few weeks, & I get home from work to find 3 packages from Deal Extreme awaiting me. :LOL:

skeeter

10-04-2017, 06:29 AM

I've been thinking about the same thing! I've been prototyping with adding steel wire 4mm) inside the wheels, but your lead approach looks more doable. The handling will be much better with the added weight in the wheels.

Stein :-)

Yes sir, I think it will be a decent machine with the amount of added weight. Not only the added lead weight, but the added weight from the epoxy too.

I'm glad I can do something that you find useful/helpful, since you've offered so much to others in the hobby!

skeeter

10-04-2017, 08:15 PM

frizzen

10-04-2017, 10:06 PM

skeeter

10-04-2017, 11:04 PM

Yes, you can hook up a charge port to a holder. I'd install a charge/run switch if your charge port doesnt have it built in.

I'd rather use 2/3A or Sub-C batteries instead of the AA that work with that holder. More capacity, higher charge and discharge rate, more flexabiliy in where the batteries go, can do a 6pack if your esc prefer it to the 4pack.

The 2A/3A batteries you mention, would you by chance have a link to them, or pictures of them? When it comes to electronics that I've not been yet exposed to, I'm hesitant to buy, as I DON'T want to get the wrong things.

skeeter

10-04-2017, 11:21 PM

That SLOW boat from China arrived today. It brought my 4 new HS85MG Mighty Micro servo's. ONLY 3 are still in the boxes, as pictures here
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4503/36836223083_3d33d2e1f4.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Y86gLx)unnamed (16) (https://flic.kr/p/Y86gLx) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

The 4th one has been opened to test fit into the D5 conversion. I'm pleased with how it fits so far. Since I hacked the grill to test the theory with a Traxxas servo, I'll be 3D printing another grill to test fit it with. I think I'll start the printer now, so the part's ready when I get home from work.

Although I DON'T remember exactly where I saw pictures for the grill mounted blade servo, I know my success was limited with it. The set up kept opening the model due to the torque applied to the grill. Here's the idea I came up with to mount the blade servo, & solve this problem. That aluminum piece is bolted to the bottom of the dozer, & then I bolt the servo to it. The new part will take the torque abuse, rather then allowing the grill to work side to side eventually opening the model. The cut out in it was hand machined with my dremmel tool, the flexible extension, & a the cut-off wheel. The new grill isn't yet installed in this pic, but everything lines up properly when it's put together. That pic doesn't have any bolts in it for the servo,.......YET. It was just a quick mock up to give the idea how it would be when done.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4482/36795175944_4f0d89f195.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Y4sTTf)unnamed (15) (https://flic.kr/p/Y4sTTf) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

frizzen

10-05-2017, 01:20 AM

skeeter

10-05-2017, 02:33 PM

2/3A battery.
https://www.maxamps.com/nimh-1600mah-2-3a-nimh-cell
(2/3 length of an 'A' battery)

You'll either have to pick up some solder and bars or wire to build the pack. Shoegoo or epoxy work to keep the pack rigid.

I like the new servo mount, should be a lot stronger.

Thank-you, sir, for the info. They're even a local company. Well, 4 hour drive away local. LOL!

Yes, much stronger is the new mount. Once work FINALLY finishes for the day, I hope to get 'er buttoned up with that part of it.

skeeter

10-05-2017, 10:15 PM

Well...............after a grueling 17 hour day, I came home to take a nap! Ate dinner, & it's time to go to sleep so I can return tomorrow at 6 AM. I DIDN'T do anything today in the garage.

skeeter

10-07-2017, 07:12 PM

Charging help. PLEASE, & thanks. I'd like to find a charge port that I can easily mount, (Drill the hole into the plastic, insert charge port, secure with a jam nut) to the Bruder D5 conversion. I would like one that bolts/screws to it permanently. I've searched Ebay for charge plu, & charge port, but DON'T find what I seek. Any ideas?

frizzen

10-07-2017, 07:35 PM

skeeter

10-07-2017, 08:01 PM

I already run Deans on all my stuff and i like simple, so i'll probably do something like these 'deans panel mount' (once the bobcat conversion eventually starts...)

https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1733664

https://1080aerial.com/products/deans-connector-w-aluminium-mount

But i'm also lazy and prone to lose special adaptors for things. Normal batts have deans, charger has deans, pass-through gets deans. Same is good.

I like the way you think, sir! Thanks for the link to 3D files. I'm printing a trial part now. I REALLY liked https://1080aerial.com/products/deans-connector-w-aluminium-mount but, they're SOLD OUT! :( I would have never thought to 3D print something like that! I'm anxious for the 3D part to come off the printer, so I can try it out :bounce:

I was looking at these, BUT.......I thought they look like I woul dhave problems with the wiring in the power supply breaking off.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/4PCS-Male-Female-Panel-Mount-DC-Power-Plug-Socket-Jack-Connector-2-1x5-5mm-US-/371888574197?hash=item5696494ef5:g:ebYAAOSwhQhYxiS Z

skeeter

10-07-2017, 08:14 PM

Frizen, TYVM for all your help on my various projects! I took your advise, & have ordered these 2/3A batteries. I ordered them over the suggested link, as they already have the bars build into them!
http://www.ebay.com/itm/12pcs-a-set-Ni-Cd-600mAh-1-2V-2-3AA-Rechargeable-Battery-NiCd-Batteries-White/252557102588?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649

I've got this switch on order for the charge/run/off switch. HOPEFULLY, it is the right kind/type, & will work for what I intend to use it for.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/1PCS-Mini-Toggle-Switch-MTS-103-2A-250V-5A-120V-for-RC-Model/282242405634?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649

frizzen

10-08-2017, 01:18 AM

Glad to help. My suggestions are usually just the first site to come up to show what i mean, not an 'order here'.

2/3 AA should work too, they're smaller (DoubleA size girth, put your thumb over the duracell Coppertop) so you should be able to stick them more places, and the 600 mAh probably won't hold you back too much on a Dozer. Hard to argue wit $0.50/cell.
- - I just like 2/3A since i find it to be a pretty great balance of runtime and size, usually you can get 1500-1600 mAh which can run my 1/10 comp crawler for 15 min, 1/14 van or dumptruck for 30+ min.

Not sure about the switch, it's only showing vac ratings, so no idea about vdc ratings. That would take time tracking down a datasheet if available or trying to figure a safe amount to be derated. All i can safely say is Maybe. Bench test it hard and see if its getting warm or any suggestion of arcing.

skeeter

10-08-2017, 12:10 PM

I don't think run time should be a factor too much with this model. the batteries ONLY have to run 3 micro servo's & the 2X5 Sabertooth.

skeeter

10-09-2017, 12:41 AM

Today I placed a Team Associated NMH battery into the Bruder D5 conversion, just for giggles. I wanted to see what it would/could do. After I ran about 3 passes of 2 feet long, I had a decent pile. I then turned the dozer around to push that pile so I could push a FULL blad of gravel. The battery died just after I got the camera set up & filming, so this is just a teaser vid.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4499/37554290882_478275a4f9.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ZdxyiQ)20171008_1554111 (https://flic.kr/p/ZdxyiQ) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

10-09-2017, 08:19 PM

Yesterday I took the Bruder D5 out for a trial. In the initial test run, I found an issue. The blade controll linkage was moving. The nut I installed on the back side of it was NOT tight any longer. SO...............I mixed up dome epoxy, & tightened the nut. To keep it from happening again, I filled in the cavity with the epoxy.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4451/36894366564_5732da0de7.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YdegNm)unnamed (17) (https://flic.kr/p/YdegNm) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

I also made a little progress with the front loader. I'll have to take pics of that. I WISH there was a way to speed up that SLOW boat from China. I REALLY want my parts, so I can complete this build!

frizzen

10-10-2017, 06:15 PM

Nice to see it's pushing gravel already.
I really like nylock nuts or blue locktite for most things once you finalize a design.

Wait until you find your trucks driving along at a meet and suddenly the back end jumps wildly, and the back starts trying to pass the front, and it locks up... or you have one at a comp being judged through the gates decide it needs to rip an axle loose and bounce its way down the rock face... . Nylock all the things!

skeeter

10-10-2017, 11:53 PM

Frizzen, THANKS for the tip. I never thought about it before. I know it's premature, to be working it, but I couldn't help it. I just had to see if it was going to work as I hoped it would. The micro servo's are REALLY slooooooooooooooooooow. I wish I had used FULL sized servo's in it. Perhaps then it would be a little faster.

A quick question, (pardon my sloppy sketck, it's the best I could do. I'm not artistic) In the sketch I've drawn below, is this the proper way to wire a run/off/charge switch into a model? Where EVERYTHING converges, I forgot to draw the battery, at the bottom of the sketch. The bullseye looking thing at the left, is suppose to be the charge plug.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4483/36917996704_c7790199b9.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Yfjody)unnamed (18) (https://flic.kr/p/Yfjody) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

10-11-2017, 12:32 AM

I think I found better(BETTER as in MORE bang, 3.7 V per cell, as opposed to the 1.2V per cell I have already ordered) batteries. I found this holder, & batteries on flebay. I've never used the LiOn battery before. Are they good batteries?
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItemVersion&item=162577073125&view=all&tid=1609013003006

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Plastic-Battery-Storage-Case-Box-Holder-For-4-x-18650-3-7V-With-Wire-Leads-UL/161868305478?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649

I worry, with LI, like the LIpo, LIpo needs balance boards per cell. DO LIon batteries need a balance board, or can they charge like standard rechargeable AA batteries?

frizzen

10-11-2017, 05:22 PM

Smallhaul ha several dozer or bobcat builds that replaced the standard hs645 with the digital version of it since they have a faster transit time, maybe look into those specs for the size you run? Check the channel endpoints, you might not be giving the motor control full range/speed. You might also have a dual rate setting turned on in the tx.

No, that drawing will let smoke out.

All the grounds can just be tied together. Put esc + on a side, put battery + on center, put charge + on a side.

I'm not sure if you're using a 2 or 3 pos switch. You want center off if you have it. One throw connect charge to battery, other throw connect esc to battery.

Li-on isn't used much in rc. Its safer than lipo. You don't generally have much of a C rating, the chargers are kinda weird, and a lot of them have a circuit that bricks the battery after x time or cycles. Hopefully someone knows more about them than me.

skeeter

10-11-2017, 06:23 PM

SteinHDan

10-12-2017, 05:34 PM

I've used Li-ion batteries in some robotics projects and a couple of RC-builds:
- Bruder MAN truck: http://www.scale4x4rc.org/forums/showthread.php?t=80393
- Bruder Delta loader: https://www.rcsparks.com/forum/threads/bruder-delta-loader-rc-conversion-w-embedded-pc.36063/
and I think they work very well for smaller sized RC projects (and Tesla uses them in their cars, so evidently good for larger models as well).

I typically now just buy single 18650 industry standard cells (like Tesla) from a well-known brand like Panasonic:
- NCR18650A 3.7V 3100mAh http://www.ebay.com/itm/292133363075
You have to look up the datasheet to get the C-rating. For this one, the NCR18650A's datasheet:
- https://na.industrial.panasonic.com/sites/default/pidsa/files/ncr18650a.pdf

says the maxium charge current is 1475mA. Charging at 1000mA is thus very safe, you could probably also go with 1500mA. With the 3100mAh capacity, you are looking at 4 hours charging time with 1A charger. But for a small RC model, the 3100mAh will also last you a whole day, so the charge time VS run time is a good ratio.

The 18650-type cells is the same type that Tesla use in their Model S and X cars:
- http://fortune.com/2016/07/27/tesla-bigger-battery-gigafactory/

I combine the cells in a battery holder with a battery protection circuit to avoid over discharge, over voltage, short circuit and other things that could hurt the cells:
- http://www.ebay.com/itm/381100264951
You can get these holders in any configuration, 1S, 2S (7.4v), 3S (11.1v), 4S, etc and parallels, e.g. 1P, 2P, etc.

and finally I use a charger like this one:
- http://www.ebay.com/itm/191941924713
it's just a standard CC/CV charger, like your typical RC-charger for LiPos.

You can of course also use your normal RC charger.
On top of that you can also charge the cells individually in parallel using a charger like this (but I've never done that):
- http://www.ebay.com/itm/272685459838

You can also get the battery packs pre-build with protection boards, and even in very large size batteries. I use batteries like these in my robots:
- http://www.ebay.com/itm/291652625112

Best regards,
Stein :-)

skeeter

10-12-2017, 07:19 PM

skeeter

10-12-2017, 07:24 PM

I got some goodies in the mail when I arrived home today! :bounce: The charge/run/off switch arrived. I drilled out it's new home in the D5, & installed it!
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4504/37404455810_a103f425f3.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YZiByw)unnamed (19) (https://flic.kr/p/YZiByw) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

10-15-2017, 08:25 PM

WELL.....................poop!
My RANT about EBay sellers follows!

I JUST now saw that the Ebay seller of the charge plugs for the D5 sent a message last night. I read it, & was disappointed! The shipment WAS due to reach me in 3-5 days from now. They tell me they HAVEN'T yet shipped it. Something about problems with their distributor(s), or some horsesh!t like that. They tell me it'll be 10-15 days before they have inventory to ship me. Asks if I'd like to wait on them. WTF? REALLY? You contact me a few days prior to the delivery date to tell me you DON'T have the product you sold me. You then have the gumption to ask IF I'd like to wait on you! I requested a cancellation of order with a refund, & it was granted. The ONLY reason I ordered them from the original seller, was they were shipping from California, rather then China. China takes a LOT longer to arrive to me, then does mail from Ca., & I was willing to pay the difference for the speed that they'd be here to me.

Now I've re-ordered the plugs from a different seller. Unfortunately, they ARE comming from China this time around. That said, Once the Batteries, & battery holder arrive me, I'll be delayed a bit till I can get the D5 finished.

skeeter

10-15-2017, 10:05 PM

It's getting colder outside. Winter's ALMOST here. Yesterday morning I had to scrape ice form the windshield before I left the house. Knowing that epoxy doesn't like the cooler temps of winter, I decided to get the other set of wheels done for the front loader. I thought about it for a while, & decided that the ones that have 1/2 # of lead added to them should go on the front. I also decided that since the rear of the machine SHOULD be heavier then the front, to add as much lead to the rear tires as I could. I got about 3/4 of a pound of lead crammed into each of them. I then epoxied over it as I did the others.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4497/37692141932_db8419c93f.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ZqJ5C5)unnamed (20) (https://flic.kr/p/ZqJ5C5) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

G1050

10-16-2017, 04:07 PM

I was looking at these, BUT.......I thought they look like I woul dhave problems with the wiring in the power supply breaking off.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/4PCS-Male-Female-Panel-Mount-DC-Power-Plug-Socket-Jack-Connector-2-1x5-5mm-US-/371888574197?hash=item5696494ef5:g:ebYAAOSwhQhYxiS Z

Sounds like you're probably already settled on a route for the charge port on your dozer, but I use those DC jacks/connectors that you linked to from ebay on my builds and I really like them. They're compact and easy to wire. With cheaper ones, you do have to be a little careful when soldering on the wires or they'll melt, but not a big deal.

They're easy enough to install somewhere so they blend in. On the dozer, I put it in the air cleaner (I believe it's the air cleaner, anyway).
You can see it (kind of) in this pic:

https://diycgk.files.wordpress.com/2017/03/img_0696-sm.jpg?w=440

Love your thread and builds, by the way. Makes me want to get a 3D printer.

SteinHDan

10-16-2017, 04:27 PM

Nice hidden charger port, G1050! I always wonder where to hide those things! :-)

Stein :-)

skeeter

10-16-2017, 08:18 PM

Sounds like you're probably already settled on a route for the charge port on your dozer, but I use those DC jacks/connectors that you linked to from ebay on my builds and I really like them. They're compact and easy to wire. With cheaper ones, you do have to be a little careful when soldering on the wires or they'll melt, but not a big deal.

They're easy enough to install somewhere so they blend in. On the dozer, I put it in the air cleaner (I believe it's the air cleaner, anyway).
You can see it (kind of) in this pic:

https://diycgk.files.wordpress.com/2017/03/img_0696-sm.jpg?w=440

Love your thread and builds, by the way. Makes me want to get a 3D printer.

Yes, I reluctantly settled on those, when I COULDN'T in a timely manner get the one I was trying to get. I LOVE THE IDEA for hiding it in there like you did!

Thanks for the comlpiments, but ALL the credit is due Stein for open sourcing his build STL (the file type that the 3D printer reads) files! I've taken his ideas, & added my own twist/spin/optional parts etc., to it to make it my own.

skeeter

10-17-2017, 06:20 PM

Today, due to weather it was a very short day at work! :) Nothing wrong with that once in a while. I took advantage of the time to tinker in the garage a bit. Since I still don't have the parts :( for the D5, I worked on the 574 Front End Loader a bit. I soldered the leads to the drive motors, & got the rear axle mounted on the model.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4488/37504292370_5005bc2218.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Z98iuw)unnamed (21) (https://flic.kr/p/Z98iuw) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr
My axles are now 1/2 an inch wider then the stock axles. I wasn't anticipating this when I started this project.:o Due to the lead I added into the rims, & wanting to make sure it was WELL sealed, I the epoxy work I did was a little too much. :eek: No worries, I'm still going to run them. I've too much time invested in them to NOT use them.

I would have liked to got more did today, but I couldn't. When I got home to start on the project, my drill had a dead battery. I plugged it in, before I started the soldering work. By the time I got everything out to solder, & performed the task, the drill had a lil charge to it. It had just enough charge that I could drill the holes in the stock rims, as well as the ones in the bottom of the model for the mounting holes.

I know the bolts that hold the assembly to the model are horrendously long & hideous looking. I SHOULD have used between a 27mm to 30mm long m4 bolts, but I've misplaced them. :cop: I was ONLY able to find the 35mm long bolts that I used. I tried to cut them off with a pair of dikes, but CAN'T get far enough back in the jaw of the tool to get proper leverage to make the cut. :jaw:

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4465/37504303300_1e623d8a4a.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Z98mJY)unnamed (22) (https://flic.kr/p/Z98mJY) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

10-17-2017, 06:25 PM

I would like to still be out in the garage tinkering, but it's a cold dreary day & the garage is unheated. I'll just have to sit inside, & look at the previous posts on here. Now that my brother got that photobutt thingy installed to fix it so I can see the pics again! :cool:

skeeter

10-17-2017, 06:42 PM

My mentor on this build, Stein did his wheels like this
http://d1t2tbzmskak12.cloudfront.net/bruder-574-loader/IMAG1531.jpg
http://d1t2tbzmskak12.cloudfront.net/bruder-574-loader/IMAG1535.jpg

I did mine a bit different. This is where the differential in width of the tires comes into play for me.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4497/37692141932_db8419c93f.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ZqJ5C5)unnamed (20) (https://flic.kr/p/ZqJ5C5) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr
Had I taken the time to look over his build thread a bit more...............I should have did the epoxy a bit differently. I SHOULD have NOT put any in the very center of the wheel hub. I know for next time!

SteinHDan

10-18-2017, 03:46 AM

skeeter

10-18-2017, 04:34 PM

You could put the hubs on the motor axle the wrong way and just drill a wide hole in the center of the epoxy, wide enough for the axle and hub cylinder to fit in. That would save you half an inch on each side, maybe.

Stein :-)

The more I stare at it, the more the wider stance is growing on me. I'll run them as is.................for now, & I'll reserve the right to swap them at a later time.

skeeter

10-22-2017, 01:31 PM

As we all know by now, I struggle with electronics! :o So............that being said, I have a question. When installing the electronics in the Liebherre 574 front loader, I will be using a 2X12 Sabertooth, & a 2X5 sabertooth. The 2X5 will run the lift actuators, & the 2X12 will power the drive motors. Both will be supplied from the same battery. When I install the leads from the Sabertooth's do I REMOVE the redwires from ALL the connectors that come from the Sabertooth's to the receiver, EXCEPT for 1? Could they all be left intact WITHOUT harm to the receiver &/or Sabertooth's?

The weather's getting colder, far & few are going to be the warm days. That said I decided I'd better throw a coat of paint on some parts. I painted the Front axle assembly of the front loader today. There are some spots that have runs, but those nasty looking spots WON'T be seen. They'll be covered up with parts of the original model. I was lazy, & DIDN'T want to take it all apart to paint it. I placed a ziplok sandwich bag over each tire, then neatly folded it around the inside of the tire.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4482/37830294942_d443568253.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ZCW9Gw)unnamed (23) (https://flic.kr/p/ZCW9Gw) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

10-22-2017, 02:52 PM

I know the paint WON'T match exactly the original models paint, but it's the closest I could find.

frizzen

10-22-2017, 04:49 PM

Yes speed control red wires need pulled on all but the one with strongest BEC. Any single bec works, but i'd use big amps if you've got it

The wide stance could be undone with a drillpress or a dremel if you really wanted. I'd see how it looks in mockup before narrowing. Might help keep it from getting stuck, or let it turn with more force.

skeeter

10-22-2017, 05:38 PM

Frizzen, thanks for your help, yet again.
I'll keep the wider stance, for now. If, at a later date I find I'm not enjoying it, I reserve the right to narrow it.

skeeter

10-24-2017, 12:22 AM

I arrive home from work today, & find that I have mail! :) I knew I was expecting the charge plugs, as tracking info showed that they ha cleared customs. When I open it, it's my charging plugs. I tried to install it like G1050 did. I liked how well it was hidden. :cool:
https://diycgk.files.wordpress.com/2017/03/img_0696-sm.jpg?w=440
BUT......I boogered it up. While I was trying to drill the air cleaner to accept the charge recepticle, :o I broke it. I broke it BADLY. So, I now have this instead of an air cleaner. https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4510/37184471624_04fd8fa748.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YDS8VJ)unnamed (25) (https://flic.kr/p/YDS8VJ) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr
Perhaps, in the future, I may 3D print a part that will fit inside of it, & look like an air filter. For the time being, it will look like this for the foreseeable future. One of these days, I'll get around to it.

sparkycuda

10-24-2017, 11:45 AM

Have an extra connector that plugs in? Make an air cleaner to glue to it and plug it in the port - remove to charge the battery.

Ken

skeeter

10-24-2017, 08:39 PM

Have an extra connector that plugs in? Make an air cleaner to glue to it and plug it in the port - remove to charge the battery.

Ken

That's what will most likely happen, eventually.

skeeter

10-24-2017, 08:50 PM

I had some more mail awaiting me when I got home today. :) The battery holder with the built in protection circuits arrived. :cool: I was anxious to get into the garage & get it installed. I got a disappointment. Turns out it's a few mm too big to fit into the space available in the D5 dozer. :( Good thing I already ordered 3 of these!
https://www.ebay.com/itm/2-pcs-Plastic-Battery-Storage-Case-Box-Holder-for-2-x-AA-with-6-Wire-Leads/222658549470?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649

I know I WILL have room to fit ALL 3 of them in, & it will give me 7.2 working volts. NOT as much as I was hoping for, but I'll take what I can get to fit, so I can get this thing FINALLY running! I also ordered one of these.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/1-pc-1S2P-18650-3-7V-Holder-Case-Battery-Li-Ion-PCM-Protection-Circuit-Module/152444548348?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649
Afterall 7.4V is better then 7.2:D

Here's the pic of the battery holder that 3S battery holder that arrived today, sittin gin the dozer. IF I REMOVED :( the cab interior, I COULD make it fit. I WON'T do that, as I really want it complete with cab, & all.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4486/37637390800_b79c0711b4.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ZkTt23)unnamed (24) (https://flic.kr/p/ZkTt23) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

frizzen

10-24-2017, 10:08 PM

skeeter

10-24-2017, 10:22 PM

Maybe a good reason to build a dusty enviroment filter? Or check out some bigger machine filter designs? Maybe a D7 style might look good on the d5

Any chance gutting the battery holder might work? The plastic is all optional, just keep the protection circuit and bus bars, insulation tape over the contacts.

I'm afraid NOT! Even the 3 batteries by them self's are too long to fit, side by side. IF I were more electronically inclined, I might could disassemble the thang, & redneck it together. I'm afraid that I'd try it, do something wrong, then it'd let out a BIG cloud of smoke, & leave behind a mound of melted plastic for me. I wish I were more electronically inclined. I think if I were to be able to stack the batteries 2 on bottom, & one on top, they just might could fit.

skeeter

10-24-2017, 10:45 PM

I'll address the air cleaner issue after I have a few less things over the fire. Perhaps it's just been recessed to be better out of the operators line of sight. That's my story (For now) & I'm sticking to it.

skeeter

10-25-2017, 01:13 AM

IF I buy these, & solder ALL 3 red wires together, to make 1 positive lead, AND do the same to the black wires, to make 1 negative lead, would that battery pack function properly? :thinking: If it'd work, I can still get the 11.4V battery I was hoping to have :bounce:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/3-pcs-1S1P-18650-3-7V-Holder-Case-Battery-Li-Ion-PCM-Protection-Circuit-Module/361909936004?hash=item5443835f84:g:wjkAAOSwdGFYq~e c

frizzen

10-25-2017, 06:27 AM

I don't know much about the 18650 cells, but you can build them into packs that way.

If you solder all reds together, and all blacks together, you will have a 3p pack. It has single cell voltage, 3x the amps.

If you solder a red to black, and another red to black, you'll have a 3s pack. It has 3x cell voltage, and single cell amps.

skeeter

10-25-2017, 07:38 AM

Trucker Al

10-25-2017, 03:53 PM

skeeter

10-25-2017, 10:11 PM

Be careful of 18650 and 26650 cells. The cheaper cells are for flashlights and have a lower "C" rating. some are only good for 2 amps max. output. You need cells with at least a C35 rating. I know because I just tried the lower c rated cells on my model trucks and they died very quickly.
Thanks for the info. I wasn't aware of this. Makes me wonder how long the one's I've ordered will last. Neither the battery, or the sellers posting on Ebay has the "C" rating.

skeeter

10-29-2017, 09:19 PM

Thanks to my bro-in-law, I'm starting to print the tires/rims for the Ertl Diecast skidder conversion. I don't know CAD, & I CAN'T learn it........................................YET. My computer is too old, & SLOooW! When I open Fusion360, my machine pauses for an extended period of time, then it opens it, FINALLY. Once I start to do anything in the program, the computer closes the program, after an EXTENDED pause, while it tries to make things happen. This will be a bit of a process. 15.75 Hrs each one. I'll hopefully have pics to post when I get them done.

skeeter

10-30-2017, 12:05 AM

If there's anyone out there that wants a modified Cat D5 drive sprocket, I have the STL file for it. My brother in-law & I designed it on his laptop one night. I'll try & get pics of the stock Bruder D5 drive sprocket, next to the one I have. The teeth are a tad longer, more pointier, & grad the tracks better. For now, I'll be running the stock sprockets, but this design, I think will be useful once the tracks start to stretch, & wear. Also I have made another that's even bigger diameter, so when the tracks are really stretched & worn. I'll post BOTH stl files, with pics in the near future.

skeeter

10-30-2017, 05:50 PM

As promised, some pics of the new shoes for the Ertl log skidder conversion
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4473/38049603381_0e5e051f1e.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ZYjasv)unnamed (26) (https://flic.kr/p/ZYjasv) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

10-30-2017, 05:53 PM

It needs some YELLOW paint on the rim. Having a printer that ONLY prints a single color, I'll have to do some work to this thing to make it look better.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4500/37340326054_157cb2d565.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YTCW25)unnamed (27) (https://flic.kr/p/YTCW25) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

10-30-2017, 05:57 PM

The tread profile of the tire ISN'T quite right. :o It's more like a tire that'd be on a front end loader in a gravel pit, then the tractor style that'd normally be on one of these machines. :jaw: What can I say, my tire guy offered me a great deal on this set of tires, rather then the original style tires. :D
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4491/26273412119_98ef0af763.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/G2G758)unnamed (28) (https://flic.kr/p/G2G758) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

10-30-2017, 05:59 PM

All 4 tires will be printed with PLA at 35% honeycomb infill.

skeeter

10-30-2017, 06:32 PM

Got the first coat of paint on it. It's NOT the proper shade of yellow, but I got a great deal on it! 2 more hours & I can add the second coat. 14.25 More hours to go, & tire #2 will be finished printing.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4470/38050319511_e8aec2703c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ZYnQkz)unnamed (29) (https://flic.kr/p/ZYnQkz) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

10-30-2017, 11:10 PM

As promised, here's pics of the 3D printed drive sprocket for the Bruder D5 conversion.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4491/24202284428_cf5fa82c6e.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/CSF2Y1)unnamed (31 (https://flic.kr/p/CSF2Y1) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

10-30-2017, 11:11 PM

A better pic, showing the difference in tallness of the teeth on the sprockets
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4461/24202286168_58754d1349.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/CSF3u1)unnamed (30) (https://flic.kr/p/CSF3u1) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

11-01-2017, 07:42 AM

FINALLY! The SLOW boat that carries my 2/3aa rechargeable batteries arrived. I'll assemble them into a battery pack, & place them into the model. I didn't take pics...............yet. I'll get some pics when I start to assemble the pack. This was the last obstacle holding me back from completing the Bruder D5 conversion. HOPEFULLY the 6ooMAH batteries will be big enough to power the machine for a bit between charges. I think they will as there is ONLY 3 servo's that it will power.

skeeter

11-01-2017, 07:54 AM

I almost forgot to post this. Here's the link to download the Bruder Cat drive sprocket STL file, if anyone needs it.
https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2616603

Here's the link to get the RIGHT hand side tire for the log skidder. As of yet, there is ONLY the RHS tire. I'll be getting the B.I.L. (brother In-Law) to help me make the LHS tire. He says it's s simple fix. As they are now, IF I print 4 tires, the chevrons will be pointing forwards (as they SHOULD be) on the RHS, & would point backwards on the LHS.
https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2616612

skeeter

11-02-2017, 09:18 AM

Feeling the need to have more scale stuff, I found this 55 Gallon drum on Thingiverse, & decided to experiment with it. I mean, what shop DOESN'T have a waste oil container in it?

The top, & bottom didn't fit, so I hogged out the ID of the barrel with mr. Dremell tool. After I was done with the Dremell tool, the top & bottom were a bit lose fitting. I experimented with Plastistruct to see if it would work with PLA, & it DOES!

The 3D printed bungs for it didn't turn out too good for me. Instead, I used an m3 buttonhead screw, & a m4 cap screw. I just tapped threads for each in their respective locations.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4485/38081345492_cf91a6ca74.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2127Rhh)unnamed (33) (https://flic.kr/p/2127Rhh) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4466/37403820994_007d8e5a50.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YZfmRq)unnamed (32) (https://flic.kr/p/YZfmRq) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

11-02-2017, 09:41 PM

Today, when I arrived home from work, I got a surprise. I had mail awaiting me. :cool: The 1S 2P 18650 battery holder/charger/ with built in protections arrived. ;) I was preparing to build a 2/3AA NMH battery pack for it. I'll be using this instead. :D I'll have 7.4V, rather then 7.2V from the NMH pack. Additionally I'll have 6000MAH rating, versus the NMH 600MAH rating. HOPEFULLY this will be a big enough fuel tank that this little thing can run for an hour, or more on a charge! I'm optimistic I'll have time this weekend to get it all soldered together, & can FINALLY get this thing buttoned up! :bounce: After I get it completed, then I can get some better video of it running!

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4509/38095260792_1b722a4924.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/213maPf)unnamed (34) (https://flic.kr/p/213maPf) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

11-02-2017, 09:49 PM

I found this thing on Thingiverse.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4512/26350539279_999fd64af9.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/G9vphK)unnamed (35) (https://flic.kr/p/G9vphK) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr
It's a holder for the Sabertooth 2X12 speed controller. I'll use this in the Bruder Leibherre 574 front loader conversion. It just came out of the 3D printer. I'll have to clean it up a bit, before I can use it.

skeeter

11-04-2017, 09:18 PM

Well, poop! Today I did get the Bruder D4 conversion wired, & battery installed. When I bound the receiver to the remote, I was disappointed. The 1806 battery, with the 1s2p charger, with built in circuitry ISN'T enough juice to power it. The blade servo worked, barely. Every time I tried to make the tracks move NOTHING happened. When I re-opened the model, & started to try & trouble shoot the problem, I noticed that the receiver browned out EACH time I attempted to make the tracks move. Looks like I'll have to go with the NMH batteries, & build a battery pack with them.

skeeter

11-05-2017, 02:41 AM

When my battery idea DIDN'T work I thought about using a traxxas 1200MAH NMH battery pack. but that thought was quick lived, as it wouldn't fit.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4562/38124491856_d9d163908a.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/215VZc7)unnamed (37) (https://flic.kr/p/215VZc7) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4568/38124492196_446a48ba60.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/215VZhY)unnamed (36) (https://flic.kr/p/215VZhY) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr
It's yet completely finished. I'll need to get some heatshrink tubing to complete it. I'll use the heat shrink tubing to keep everything held tightly together, as well as keep things insulated.

skeeter

11-05-2017, 06:43 PM

I JUST got the STL from the B.I.L. for the (Left Hand Side) LHS skidder tire. I'm printing it now. When it gets done, I hope to have time to post pics.

skeeter

11-06-2017, 10:03 PM

With the talk of the local fire department possibly contracting out for fire servcves, skeeter decided it's time to get this thang! IDK,....YET, where it'll call home, but I'm sure I'll find a spot for it
http://www.ebay.com/itm/REMOTE-CONTROL-FIRE-TRUCK-Used-2-MFD-2-Feet-Long-Awesome/311980392978?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649

frizzen

11-06-2017, 10:13 PM

Nice looking apparatus!
That should be a ton of fun to start converting! How many functions are you thinking about? (Yay, i'm a bad influence)

skeeter

11-07-2017, 12:43 AM

Ideally, ladder extend/retract, as well as rotation too, plus working emerg lights with siren & a working water pump too. In reality, IDk what will come of it. It'll be a last project to do, after I get the rest did.

frizzen

11-07-2017, 08:13 PM

This might be useful.
German build of a USA firetruck that was built in China
https://translate.googleusercontent.com/translate_c?depth=5&nv=1&rurl=translate.google.com&sl=auto&sp=nmt4&tl=en&u=http://modelltruck.net/showthread.php%3F46277-American-Truck-(Drehleiter)&usg=ALkJrhjDS_1SiAt98VDcNtzJ-DkCTqWN0g

skeeter

11-08-2017, 12:19 AM

Thank-You, sir for the link. ALL information is helpful, as I've never tried doing a corded to true RC conversion.

skeeter

11-08-2017, 12:34 AM

Being unable to locally source anything larger then 1/2" heat shrink tubing, I had to order the 1.5" heatshrink tubing from evilbay. It was awaiting my arrival when I got home from work today, so I put it to good use. The 600MAH NMH battery pack for the Bruder D5 conversion has been finished. I made 2 of them, as they ONLY last about 8-10 minutes, from the time they are turned on, to the time they are dead. since the battery life is such short lived, I've decided to forego the on board charging system, & the battery will need removed/swapped when it dies.
One of the 2 COMPLETED battery packs.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4575/38202651886_1147bc0f81.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/21cQzrQ)unnamed (38) (https://flic.kr/p/21cQzrQ) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

I smoked 2 batteries while trying to figure this out. I had BOTH + & the - terminals on them bused together. I was wondering why the batteries were getting so warm, & they sparked each time I touched the buss bar. Now I know!

frizzen

11-08-2017, 07:28 AM

skeeter

11-09-2017, 10:55 PM

The wintertime slowdown with work has started to happen. I didn't work today, so I ran a few errands, then tinkered in the garage a bit.

The Bruder 574 front loader conversion got some love today. Under the hood is bolted the Sabertooth 2X5 that will controll the bucket & arm lift.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4550/38300118971_76c64ff3d9.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/21ms81P)unnamed (42) (https://flic.kr/p/21ms81P) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

Speaking of the lift rams, I did mine a bit differently then my mentor's. I decided that since I added a LOT of weight to the model, it would have more force applied to the rams. That being said I abandoned the method for fastening the rams to the model liek his, & came up with my own version.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4547/26525488769_e2515e2714.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GpY4Fg)unnamed (39) (https://flic.kr/p/GpY4Fg) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

Here's the parts I used to do it.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4549/38245467766_3f5728066f.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/21gC27E)unnamed (41) (https://flic.kr/p/21gC27E) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

mocked together
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4526/38300119431_cd88b23f55.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/21ms89K)unnamed (40) (https://flic.kr/p/21ms89K) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

The "blind nut", AKA ribbed nut (I've heard them refered to both ways) did require some slight modification to the 3D printed parts that it goes through. I believe I had to drill (CAN'T remember for SURE) a 6mm hole about 1/4 inches deep into the print part. Then I used a M3x40mm bolt to go through both of my custom built aluminum parts, into the blind nut. Between the alum part, & the actuator there is a washer, followed by an M3 nut, then 5 more washers. There is a locknut behind the custom aluminum parts that holds the actuator to it.

one more pic, showing the wiring of the 2X5 controller finished.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4539/26525472479_a86b7d383e.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GpXYQp)unnamed (43) (https://flic.kr/p/GpXYQp) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

Tomorrow, I hope to start the wiring for the wheel motors!

skeeter

11-09-2017, 11:02 PM

That sucks, atleast you only smoked 2 batteries. Maybe you can use the 600mah batterys in something with lower current draw.

Cord remote to real RC can be easier than starting with a clean slate. It's going to have some kind of a gearbox and steering axle already installed. Then it's more about pulling old electronics and swap with something good.

I hope to have an alternative use for the 600MAH batteries soon. I would like to find some 1200MAH 2/3AA batteries that are affordable. The ONLY ones I can find are $8 to $12 for TWO of them. that's a little unreasonable to me, to spend that much, $24 to $36 U.S.D. just for batteries to build my own pack. Perhaps tomorrow, I may go to Batteries Plus Bulbs, & see if they can help source some that are a bit more affordable.

skeeter

11-10-2017, 07:24 PM

Well, today DIDN'T go quite as planned. I went to Batteries + Bulbs today to try & get batteries. Theirs was worse then mine, as all they could source was 2/3AA 400MAH batteries. :mad: After that I ran around town & did a few more things.

As I got back home, & prepared to start in the garage, the phone rings. It was the call that sold the old ford ranger pickup truck that had been sitting for a few years. I was keeping it as a backup rig, but decided to let er go. :D

Flushed with cash, & having become such a large contracting services company, we needed a tax write off. We decided it was time to invest in a racecar! :bounce:
McQueen was purchased from Fred Meyer about 2 months ago. It's the largest "cars" toy that I recall ever seeing made. It works out close to 1/10th scale. When I walked into the LHS, their jaws about hit the floor when I told them I WASN'T there to buy parts, :lol: (as I USUALLY am there ONLY to buy misc parts/pieces for various projects) but rather to buy a new RC car. :cool: They asked what I had in mind. I told them IDK, ANYTHING that will fit this body, as I flopped McQueen onto the countertop. After a few minutes of measuring & trying the body on a couple vehicles, I walked out with a new Traxxas Rustler.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4556/24449766118_4b549fa8a8.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DfxrDG)unnamed (44) (https://flic.kr/p/DfxrDG) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

Here's what's left of the stock chassis, & the packaging that it came in. Since McQueen WASN'T made as an RC, I had to gut the chassis from it. Who would have known them little screws they pt in it would be so d@m hard to get out?:confused: I was FINALLY able to remove the 3 front screws. After removing them, I carefully cut with the Dremel tool, the chassis near the remaining screw holes. I then took the same dremel tool with the same end mill bit still in it, & carefully carved off the remaining screws of that section in the body. Then I cut back to the next section, for a repeat.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4586/24449823378_cb44f0a4a1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DfxJEW)unnamed (45) (https://flic.kr/p/DfxJEW) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

The body gutted from it's childs toy chassis
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4541/24449823048_fd83f208a1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DfxJzf)unnamed (46) (https://flic.kr/p/DfxJzf) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

Here's the mock up on the donor chassis, of the Traxxas Rustler.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4580/24449822668_6836c05bd4.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DfxJsG)unnamed (47) (https://flic.kr/p/DfxJsG) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

I've got smaller tires to place on it yet, as well as figure out how/where to secure the body to the chassis. McQueen will fit right in with his buddy Towmater sitting next to him on the shelf.

skeeter

11-10-2017, 07:39 PM

I also took the D5 out for a lil video session today. Sorry, it's a small video snippet, as that's ALL my phone (ONLY thing I got that'll take video's) ONLY takes short vids before running out of memory. I need to adjust the blade servo a bit, so we have some down pressure to the blade. With the blade improperly adjusted, I WASN'T able to get down far enough to push well due to the rocky terrain.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4544/38265607176_bf8397d250.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/21ipeRS)Bruder D5 2nd version vid (https://flic.kr/p/21ipeRS) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

11-11-2017, 09:37 PM

Nice looking apparatus!
That should be a ton of fun to start converting! How many functions are you thinking about? (Yay, i'm a bad influence)

It arrived me today. :bounce:

I'm already feeling overwhelmed looking at it. I may have bit off more then I can chew with this project. :o I'm sure the onboard water system i was hoping for is not a viable option anymore. I've no idea where/how to do that. Also since the ladder will extend/retract, as well as pivot side to side, IDK how I'd make a hose to extend/shrink like that.

The other functions, lights, sound, fwd, rev, ladder extend/retract, ladder movement side to side, I'll have to take a look at it later this winter.

As IF I DIDN'T already have enough projects, I felt the need for another. ESPECIALLY with the insiders information I just hears about. Something bad is about to happen near the new year with the tractor industry, & the farmers won't be able to get enough machines to do their work this year. Having the inside scoop, I had to get in on the action by getting some equipment while they can be got. I hope that little twerp at the tractor manufacturing plant ISN'T pumping me full of BS about the grave situation that'll be happening. So.........................................knowing the secret insiders info, we acquired this little gem, a NewBright tractor
https://www.ebay.com/itm/New-Bright-Remote-Control-Tractor-1987-Working/172563424839?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649

Also had to acquire the wagon to go with it
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Vintage-New-Bright-1987-R-C-Turbo-Trac-990-Wagon-for-R-C-Tractor/292009583906?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649

Hopefully we'll have enough time to get em right so that they are ready to go to work when they are needed.

skeeter

11-12-2017, 01:17 AM

Today, after doing a few things I needed to do, I started the Weyerhauser Logging truck conversion. I didn't get too far along on it, but it's a start. I got as far as chopping off the sleeper, adjusting the width of the previously rear panel/access door on the sleeper, & marking out where I intend to place the rear window.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4551/26576104849_795e9b4208.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Guru5i)unnamed (48) (https://flic.kr/p/Guru5i) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

The hardware was previously used for open/close the access panel.......it's only there temporary, until I get everything sorted. Once things are ready to be glued in place, I'll remove them, & patch their holes.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4560/26576114509_2990bdd181.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GurwWR)unnamed (50) (https://flic.kr/p/GurwWR) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

I took 5CM out of the center(ish) to make the panel fit it's new home.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4571/38320398442_eae4b2c655.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/21of4oS)unnamed (49) (https://flic.kr/p/21of4oS) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

11-12-2017, 01:30 AM

1 more photo from today. This is what the sleep portion looked like, after i hacked it off. I used what Bo, in his steering mod tutorial calls a "FAST TOOL" to make the cut. I stayed rather far away from the cab portion of the truck while doing this. I would rather have a NON needed part look ragged & haggard, then the cab of the truck.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4519/38320694612_ab924755e8_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/21ogzrf)unnamed (51) (https://flic.kr/p/21ogzrf) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

frizzen

11-12-2017, 04:03 AM

Efroeh

11-12-2017, 10:23 AM

Great website I found to make your fire truck put out some flames. https://www.harbormodels.com/firemonitors.html

skeeter

11-12-2017, 10:34 AM

Thank-you for the link. That's so cool, that they have WORKING version of them. I wonder if the 1;16th scale version is adaptable to working order?

skeeter

11-12-2017, 11:10 AM

Instead of 2/3AA cells, Have you tried looking for 2/3A cells, they're usually good for 1500-1600 mah. They're about 0.650" diameter by 1.150" long.

Nice Rustler, or is that a Rusteeze now? I've got an old randomly upgraded ancient MSC version of it, you'll have fun.

Don't get overwhelmed, use the Elephant Method.
With the Ladder start with the basics: steer, drive, flashy lights, maybe some noise. Then later on when that's not enough, get a couple cheap esc to run the ladder up/down, right/left, in/out.
If after all that, you STILL have some insanity and the room to do it, maybe look into nitro fueltanks, fuel tube and fountain pumps or windshield washer sprayers. Water cool, but its a gimmic you can't do all the time and can easily trash your electronics.

Make conversions run and drive as soon as possible because it gives momentum to keep you from getting burned out because you already see the light at the end of tunnel.

I didn't know they did cable control tractors, that's pretty cool. I wonder how well it will be able to pull?

Nice progress on the daycab.

Thank-You Sir, for the thoughts. I just ordered from evilbay some 2/3A NMH 1600MAH batteries. I'll try making a pack with them, to replace the current one. :)
https://www.ebay.com/itm/12-Pcs-2-3-A-1600mAh-1-2V-Ni-Mh-Rechargeable-Battery-W-Tab-With-Tab/400506528367?epid=1431691159&hash=item5d400ca26f:g:IccAAOxy2YtRtToU

The Rustler, it's now morphed into a Rusteeze race car. I like it a LOT! :D I've several Traxxas vehicles around here. I started with the nitro trucks/cars, I had 8 of them at one time. I went to LHS to buy a new motor for one of them. A man was there & saw me doing that, he inquired if I'd like some nitro motors. I replied, I may, what do you want for them. To my reply, he laughed, & said you can just have them for FREE! A short time later, I was following him to his house to get them. While there he showed me his truck/cars that he'd yanked the nitro engines off from. He showed me how he used redneck engineering to replace the nitro motors with brushless motors. He also introduced me to LIPO batteries. Before I left that mans house, he let me drive his Traxxas Tmaxx that he'd converted. My nitro Maxx NEVER popped wheelies like his did! I was sold, I went home, & converted my Reevo to an E-revo. Shortly there after, I ditched the nitro chassis, & acquired the electric version to swap everything over to. Everything went downhill after that. I sold the remaining gas vehicles. I went from those 8, to the currently 30+ RC vehicles. 2 boats, a few semi trucks &/or big rigs, some equipment, a couple Emaxx, a couple of the slash, a few Duratrax evaders, some models that are awaiting conversion from static to RC, others awaiting corded to cordless conversion, while still others are kits that need put together, & there's more.

I do concur. Vehicle driveability will be the first issue tackled, when I get around to this project.

I didn't know they did cable tractors either. I was searching fleabay for "NewBright" & thats how I found it. I looked through several pages of garbage :eek: before I found the GOOD stuff. By garbage I mean NewBright electronical components pieces/parts that people were trying to sell .

Hopefully it'll do alright pulling. I may have to add some weight over the drive tires to make it function more gooder. :thinking:

The daycab.............well, it's just a start. I've got a LONG way to go before I cross the finish line with that project. :popcorn:

Efroeh

11-12-2017, 02:51 PM

The 1/15 says display only. I'm sure you could find some some wear that would work.

skeeter

11-12-2017, 07:32 PM

Come to think of it, it's got one on it already, I wonder if I could just hook hose(es) to it & make it work? I'll have to check next time I'm out in the garage.

skeeter

11-12-2017, 08:09 PM

I'm surprised none of the RC logging people here have done this Letourneau log loader yet. IF I had access to, or room in the garage to have machinery, I'd be doing one of these. I'm sure it'd be a one off, that no one else would do.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4519/24504365228_685bcf9037.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Dknh4E)Loglifter Laterneou (https://flic.kr/p/Dknh4E) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

11-13-2017, 01:38 AM

Tonight, after dinner, I went back into the garage to tinker again. I made a lil more progress on the logtruck conversion. I removed the drivers side fuel tank, & the passenger side steps. The passenger tank with it's steps will move ahead to be the cab steps. The drivers side exhaust was removed, & won't be back again. I also got the hole for the back window cut away.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4581/38381197081_b619d0c342.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/21tBEHg)unnamed (53) (https://flic.kr/p/21tBEHg) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4516/26605444849_0df877d98e.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Gx2RQn)unnamed (52) (https://flic.kr/p/Gx2RQn) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

11-14-2017, 12:51 AM

It was a cold wet rainy day here today. No work for me today, so I ran some errands. I have to acquire a coupler for the 3D printer feed tube, as well as some new feed tubing. After I ran to several shops, & FINALLY found a place that sold them, I went to the garage. I didn't have much time to tinker tonight. I did manage to get the cab for the log truck worked on a bit more. I'm still awaiting the couple pics I took to finish uploading. Soon as they get did, I'll post up a couple pics

skeeter

11-14-2017, 01:07 AM

Here's the pic of the cab with the holes filled in. The putty I used Squadron Products, I've never used before. :eek: I hope it works well. I figured if it works for them fly boys & their aerodynamic plane bodies, it should work good enough for my truck body. :D

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4582/37693300224_7604af168e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ZqQ1WC)unnamed (54) (https://flic.kr/p/ZqQ1WC) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4539/24536919058_dc54f5751d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Dof8bA)unnamed (55) (https://flic.kr/p/Dof8bA) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

11-15-2017, 06:52 PM

It arrived me today, the NewBright tractor, & trailer that is :)
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4570/38413954532_9fb52444f1_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/21wvymU)unnamed (56) (https://flic.kr/p/21wvymU) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr
It's been placed on the shelf of projects awaiting my attention. Sometime this winter I'll get er did.

No work today fir me. A friend of mine talked me into going to Tacoma RC Raceway http://www.tacomarc.com today. I took the Traxxas slash as it's 1/10th scale short course truck type of track. I HATED how it performed. :( The Team associated buggies were WAY faster then we were. SO..................I just had to do it, as if I needed ANOTHER project, I just couldn't help myself.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4530/38413954352_907dac4319_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/21wvyiN)unnamed (57) (https://flic.kr/p/21wvyiN) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

11-15-2017, 06:56 PM

NOT my video, but it does give one a good sense of what kind of fun can be had here.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xcKczUGFiGU

skeeter

11-15-2017, 07:07 PM

Another vid clip, again NOT mine. It's at the same track
Tacoma RC Raceway's 2wd Mod A-main from 7/1/2012
The winners BOTH driving Team Associated trucks in the race.
1st Luke Smith - Team Associated
2nd John Walentia - Team Associated

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PtXFxhJ-15s

frizzen

11-15-2017, 09:13 PM

Squadron putty is supposed to be pretty good and stable.

'turbo' tractor? Body looks nice. Am i seeing 3-point arms on the back of it? The hay wagon looks decent too.

Heh, you're reminding me why my stuff doesn't race. Rock crawl comps were expensive enough. Get a great setup, then they change the rules...

skeeter

11-15-2017, 09:24 PM

I'm glad to know it's good stuff.

Yes sir, turbo tractor WITH a 3 point hitch. Both tractor & wagon are in decent shape.

No competition racing will be done. It'll just be something that'll keep up with what my friend, & new friends are runnin at the track. I found a group of coworkers that go to the track in the wintertime while work is slow. They go every Monday & Wednesday after work. If no work, then they meet at the track at 10ish.

skeeter

11-15-2017, 09:27 PM

It costs 10 dollars fir an hour, or 15 for the day. They provide power outlets for the chargers, a nice pit area with tables & chairs & a vast array of spare parts for purchase.

skeeter

11-18-2017, 01:28 AM

Tonight, after work I made some progress on the Weyerheauser log truck conversion. I painted the green parts of the 2 tone body. Green on the back of the cab over the patch where the sleeper was hacked off, & green on the hood, just like the 1:1 I use to drive. It was an old Weyerheauser truck when the bossman acquired it.

I taped off the lines, then packed the entire cab assembly into a plastic shopping bag to keep over spray off the unwanted areas. I have a bit of touch up work to do to make everything right. This was the first time I tried tape lines.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4527/37607857445_f6c6131d74_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Zih6Mg)unnamed (58) (https://flic.kr/p/Zih6Mg) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4523/37607857325_6ecdca98df_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Zih6Kc)unnamed (59) (https://flic.kr/p/Zih6Kc) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4561/37607857185_de183b3d52_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Zih6GM)unnamed (60) (https://flic.kr/p/Zih6GM) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4548/24622450628_82d98823b8_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DvNuJQ)unnamed (61) (https://flic.kr/p/DvNuJQ) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

11-19-2017, 01:11 AM

Tonight, after dinner, I went to the garage to do a bit of work. Remember a while back I used the 3D printer to make a case for the Sabertooth 2X12 controller?:thinking: Well today I got around to using that case. I had to modify it a bit to make it work for me. I wanted a protective case for the Sabertooth. This case was set up to be a direct bolt on unit. Since I DON'T wish to take the front loader apart further, I will be just resting this case inside the body of the machine. That said, I had to modify it a bit. rather then re-CAD this thing, I used my Dremel tool, & what Bo Wallen calls a "FAST TOOL". :lol: I needed to make openings for the wires to pass through the walls. Tomorrow, I'll go to the LHS & acquire the wire & connectors for the battery so I can get them installed. Here's a couple of pics of the Polish ingenuity I did to make the case work.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4580/38457784786_f07c98ed60_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/21AocyW)unnamed (62) (https://flic.kr/p/21AocyW) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4528/24641424658_7a6195c25b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DxtK4h)unnamed (63) (https://flic.kr/p/DxtK4h) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4547/37798069584_e0e80a7d97_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ZA5ZdU)unnamed (64) (https://flic.kr/p/ZA5ZdU) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

11-19-2017, 04:21 PM

Today i messed with the front end loader a bit more. I found I had to modify the hood a bit so that it would close with the Sabertooth 2X5 being tucked into the engine compartment. I also found that with the CUSTOM boom cylinder mounts that I used, I'll have to modify the bucket a bit. Rather then 3D print &/or mod the stock plastic bucket, I'll be attempting to make one from sheet aluminum. :popcorn:

Here's the pic showing the mod to the hood. I used the Dremel tool with the "FAST TOOL" to do the mods. I just had to shave a little from the hoods underside.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4532/37640678215_decfbb9685_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ZmbjfB)unnamed (65) (https://flic.kr/p/ZmbjfB) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

I was able to test (SORRY I didn't have the opportunity to video it) this thing today, & everything works. The Traxxas 1/16 Slash battery is a little small for this operation. 4 drive motors, with 3 actuators needs more then the 1200MAH battery can provide. Additionally, EVERYTHING in this model is equipped to handle at least 12 volts. More volts = more power :D Once my batteries FINALLY get here on the SLOW boat from China, I'll be building a 12V 1800MAH battery pack for this thing.

skeeter

11-19-2017, 04:29 PM

I still have to figure out how to program the "MIX" setting on the Spektrum DX6i radio. With the current mix settings, the bucket will tip forward, to dump, as the boom s trying to raise. :( I messed with it a bit, unsuccessfully. Perhaps I'll take the model, & radio to the LHS tomorrow. I know the guys in there know how to set them thingies.

skeeter

11-20-2017, 01:07 AM

WELL.........I wen tback into the garage tonight, & messed with the dip switches on the Sabertooth 2X5. Turns out the problem WASN'T in the radio mix(es), but a switch was set wrong. It functions now as it should. :)

skeeter

11-20-2017, 08:01 PM

No work today, so I monkeyed around a bit in the Garage. I got started on the Bruder Skidsteer conversion. I figured I'd start with the hardest part, making the bucket functional. After scratching my head most all day, staring at that d@m thing, & a few different ideas later, I got something that worked. Since it's servo operated, I hooked it up to the servo tester, & turned it on in the "AUTOMATIC" mode. I works fairly well, WIHTOUT weight in it. I don't yet know how well it'll work with weight in the bucket.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4574/38495921306_b540c0f0c8_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/21DKEe9)20171120_1617451 (https://flic.kr/p/21DKEe9) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

11-20-2017, 08:03 PM

HOPEFULLY you guys see a video /\ up there! It doesn't look right to me, but I remember struggling last time I tried posting a video here, using Flicker.

skeeter

11-21-2017, 11:11 PM

Here's a few still pics of how managed to get the bucket servo mounted to the skidsteer last night

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4574/37857316144_ece1a95ddc_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ZFjDaj)unnamed (67) (https://flic.kr/p/ZFjDaj) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4569/37857316114_af4e3630a1_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ZFjD9N)unnamed (68) (https://flic.kr/p/ZFjD9N) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

HOPEFULLY it shows what, where, & how much was cut/trimmed to make this work. This set up isn't my idea, I'm fairly sure I seen this on one of SmallHaul's conversions.

skeeter

11-22-2017, 01:14 PM

Made a lil more progress on the Bruder skidsteer conversion today.

The wheels proved to be a challenge! I COULDN'T using only 1 adapter get them to work. I wound up using spacers that I had paying around the shop. I cut the axle & placed it back in it's hole in the wheel. I used this as a guide for the centering to drill the holes. Each wheel will be held on by 4 bolts, just like the 574 front end loader I just did.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4542/37857316214_10f5bd303d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ZFjDbw)unnamed (66) (https://flic.kr/p/ZFjDbw) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

Here it is all cut away & ready for servo's to bolt into it.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4554/37857316064_ed7b9f285e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ZFjD8W)unnamed (69) (https://flic.kr/p/ZFjD8W) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr
Those sidewalls look a lil thin for plastic. I think I'd better beef that up a bit with some metal!
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4561/37857315944_7fe495b5bc_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ZFjD6S)unnamed (70) (https://flic.kr/p/ZFjD6S) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr
I'm not sure yet if I'll paint the aluminum, or leave it unpainted.

frizzen

11-22-2017, 03:26 PM

That looks like it's coming along real well

skeeter

11-22-2017, 04:15 PM

Yes sir, thanks to the pioneers before me that have done these, & posted pics/vids, it's moving along nicely. I REALLY wanted to use FULL size servo's in it, but they WON'T fit right. If I used the larger servo's, I would have had to cut the mounting brackets completely off one side, the side where they meet in the middle of the tires. I was thinking that the large servo's might could be a touch faster then the micro servo's I'm using. I know I was slightly disappointed with the speeds of the Bruder D5 conversion.

I've decided to leave the Aluminum unpainted. My lil custom addition to this build.

A pic of everything mocked up. I just need to get them installed into this thang.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4543/24715383988_a69a2f6e81_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DE1NA9)unnamed (71) (https://flic.kr/p/DE1NA9) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

11-22-2017, 06:28 PM

A lil more progress was made on the skidsteer, before it came to a screeching halt! :(I just knew this project was progressing too smoothly. One of the Servo horns I received has NO splines on it. They drilled it, instead of placing splines in it. :(

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4538/38589533241_5e979c85f9_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/21N2rN2)unnamed (75) (https://flic.kr/p/21N2rN2) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

At least one side is finished! :D
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4557/38589533461_8c1b89ea53_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/21N2rRP)unnamed (74) (https://flic.kr/p/21N2rRP) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

The servos fit so close in this project, I had to use some Polish ingenuity to make them fit. On one of the bolts, the nut is resting atop the nut of the other servo.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4563/38589533641_65e3534109_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/21N2rUV)unnamed (73) (https://flic.kr/p/21N2rUV) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

11-22-2017, 06:33 PM

Since I'm NOT sure if the video from Flicker works here, I'll link to the Youtube video of them.
Testing the bucket curl
https://youtu.be/WlRAZTQLdU0

Testing the drive train......well, the one side that I was able to finish.
https://youtu.be/vfCVtoQJmNc

skeeter

11-22-2017, 06:43 PM

If I were to re-do this skidsteer project, I would space the wheels apart 10(ISH)mm more. that would allow a little more room for strength where the center servo bolts go through! It would also make it so that the bolts wouldn't have their nuts stacked atop each other, thus achieving a better hold to the model.

Additionally, I WOULDN'T epoxy the wire for the bucket curl into the boom arm as I did. I forgot just how heavy that stuff was. It adds up FAST. IDK (I DON'T Know) how much weight this thang will be capable of handling once I get er did.

frizzen

11-22-2017, 08:26 PM

skeeter

11-22-2017, 09:59 PM

On mounting the drive servos, maybe make an inboard sandwich plate that lets you clamp plastic body between aluminum sheets, and also wraps around the servo bodies (square holes they slide into) with the center mount holes tapped instead of using nuts?

Also for visable wire management, i like to clear tape over wires on the hidden side of the part.

I would much rather had the Aluminum plate, or other structural addative(s) on the inside, but there wasn't room. The micro servo's are a=right against the floor board of the model.

Remember this? :thinking:
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4376/37215042511_f1e41abd9f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YGyPzZ)unnamed (9) (https://flic.kr/p/YGyPzZ) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

Well, it now looks like this! :cop:
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4572/38558961732_83bae44aef_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/21KjKX3)unnamed (76) (https://flic.kr/p/21KjKX3) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr
SOMEETIMES it pays to be a serial builder. I robbed it from that drive sprocket, & re-purposed it to the Bruder skidsteer conversion. Although it is a different thickness that the others, I was able to use shims to make them the same thickness.

Now I've got this.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4577/37874959654_cc9764b4ca_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ZGT4XL)unnamed (77) (https://flic.kr/p/ZGT4XL) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

I didn't get any farther tonight. It's getting late & it's dinner time.

frizzen

11-22-2017, 10:11 PM

Nice repurpose! Looks good

Ok then how about just making an inside plate wrap the servos on sides and bottom? tap mount holes, then throw in a couple more random screws to tie both plates to the body.

It'll hurt the ground clearance a touch, but i think the extra strength and low cg would still be a positive

skeeter

11-22-2017, 10:20 PM

That's not a bad idea, Frizzen. IF I already had my new computer & was able to do CAD stuff, I'd be trying to do CAD one up right now. The servo's can use all the help they can to be sturdy(fied) in there. Once the new computer is acquired, I WILL be initiating your idea for that.

skeeter

11-22-2017, 11:51 PM

Now it's just a waiting game. I've ordered the Sabertooth 2X5 from www.robotshop.com that will run the drive train, AND one that will for a future project. Since they didn't make it before the holiday, I'm not expecting them until next week some time. Guess I'll have to leave this one sitting for a bit, & dive into a different project tomorrow to keep my mind occupied.

skeeter

11-23-2017, 02:25 AM

The LHS (Left Hand SIDE) wheels for the Ertl skidder conversion JUST came outta the printer. A 33 hour printing marathon it was.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4561/24722484658_5a83ba6c43_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DEDcnu)unnamed (78) (https://flic.kr/p/DEDcnu) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

I had the shop foreman looking at the front loader tonight, preparing to fab the new bucket for it. He said he hired on here to turn wrenches, not to burn metal. I told him that as the HMFIC (Head MF In Charge) of the maintenance division, he'll do ANYTHING in the shop that I want him to do, even if it's as simple as pushing a broom, or as complicated as fabricating from scratch a new loader.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4542/26818087109_d53bdf781f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GRPGYe)unnamed (79) (https://flic.kr/p/GRPGYe) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

frizzen

11-23-2017, 06:28 AM

I like CAD, but run the old version... Cardboard Aided Drafting.

33hrs is an impressive print. any grip or does it get coated with something?

Might want to hire it out to a real welder, your shop lead is just gonna booger-weld it up and fail. Then tell him to go hire a Safety Guy to chew him out for how the loader bucket's supported. Need some wood cribbing in there, or he'll need the cast and bandage set.

skeeter

11-23-2017, 12:01 PM

For now, I'll just be running the tires as is, made from PLA. Possibly in the future, i might could add something to them to make grip more gooder.

Yeah, I'm sure this project may hire out. I think I know someone that once upon a time has made these buckets :thinking: I think his name was RCP57.

Frizz, there's NOTHING wrong with CAD, I still use it a LOT around here. Speaking of which, I think it's time to swing by office depot, & acquire some more manila file folders!

Here's wishing everybody a HAPPY Thanksgiving! Hope you all have a great holiday, & can enjoy time with friends & family, while sharing good food.

skeeter

11-24-2017, 01:21 AM

skeeter

11-24-2017, 01:26 AM

Tonight, after everybody had left to return to their homes, I started a new project. The Bruder Delta Loader. This d@m thing was by far the WORST Bruder toy to dismantle! I thought the disassembly would be the WORST part of this build! :cop: WRONG was I! There's like ZEREO room in this thing. I think it'll sit in pieces on the shelf for a bit, whilst I ponder it over a tad. Who knows, I my just slap it back together, & give the d@m thing to one of the nephews.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4582/38555398376_410b8cf3ee_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/21K1uFS)unnamed (80) (https://flic.kr/p/21K1uFS) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4582/38555398376_410b8cf3ee_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/21K1uFS)unnamed (80) (https://flic.kr/p/21K1uFS) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

11-24-2017, 05:11 PM

Today in the mail was my batteries. The SLOW boat from China FINALLY arrived with my 2/3A 1600MAH batteries. I sat down & did what any RC enthusiast would have done, & made them into the battery pack I wanted!
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4565/37906775534_460ba381b8_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ZKG8Hq)unnamed (82) (https://flic.kr/p/ZKG8Hq) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

Here's a comparison pic showing the size difference between the 2/3AA 600MAH pack, & the 2/3A 1600MAH packs.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4521/24751704498_b04ffa0e4c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DHdXpQ)unnamed (83) (https://flic.kr/p/DHdXpQ) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr
There isn't much differnce in the amount of room that they need to have inside the model. There IS, however a HUGE difference in the amount of time I can run the Bruder D5 before a battery swap is necessary. Now I just need to get the tiny hardware sourced, & bolt the brass wear plate onto the dozer blade. I'll also be adding some more weight into the model. Since I'm running low on room inside it, I'll be adding that weight the inside of the track bodies.

skeeter

11-24-2017, 05:39 PM

I had a video to upload of it pushing gravels in the driveway today. At 56 seconds long, it's too long to email from my phone to myself. IDK any other way to get it from the phone into my computer to upload it here.

skeeter

11-24-2017, 09:29 PM

Knowing that the dozer needed more weight added to it, I undertook that task tonight. I added approximately 3/4 of a pound to it tonight. The process I undertook I call the Skeeter special. Cut lead to fit where it's going, mix epoxy, & enshrine the lead in an epoxy coat to eliminate lead exposure(s).
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4567/38571138006_b641a74d28_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/21LpawN)unnamed (83) (https://flic.kr/p/21LpawN) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4530/24754798848_9e0ea1101f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DHuPfG)unnamed (84) (https://flic.kr/p/DHuPfG) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

I sure hope this will be enough weight for it, as it's getting hard to find places to sneak more lead into

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4541/24754798448_cd80d05388_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DHuP8N)unnamed (85) (https://flic.kr/p/DHuP8N) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

11-24-2017, 09:39 PM

The video I was trying to post earlier. I called my brother, he's the smart one with computers. When I told him the problem he started laughing hysterically. He then told me I was a dumb@ss, & inquired why I didn't just upload the video DIRECTLY yo Youtube from the phone. He thought it was super funny that I had been Emailing the vids to myself, then uploading them to Youtube from the computer. I told him that NOT EVERYONE is as computer smart as him. without further adieu, here's the vid. Like I said before, it DON'T push well, as I HAVEN'T yet installed the metal wear plate on the blade.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YChiFPc-yEE

The New BIGGER batteries made a HUGE difference in this thing. I forgot to time them, but I'm sure I can live with these batteries.

frizzen

11-25-2017, 12:19 AM

Glad the real batteries finally showed up.

Looks like it pushes pretty well. Do you know anybody who reloads for shotgun, or is into muzzleloading shotguns? Lead shot can pack weird areas much easier than rod.
Also once you run out of lead hiding places, think about brass plates glued to flat surfaces.
--

Put away the servos, The delta loader conversions seem to all use the dual-output tamiya gearbox that use the 280-ish motors.

skeeter

11-25-2017, 02:51 AM

I LOVE the idea for the plates. If/when I run out of room, & need to pack more, I'll be employing that method!

Unfortunately, I do not know anyone that reloads. I do, however know of an outdoors store near me, that has said re-loading supplies. Perhaps Monday I'll head there & see if I can acquire some of them lead BB's. I've got the copper BB gun type BB's but I don't think they are as dense as the lead ones are.

No more Tamiya gearbox's here! I still have 3 in the parts bin. I don't like how fast they break. :( I've ordered a couple motors from the interwebs, as the servo idea WON'T be an option on the Delta loader. Found these on Evilbay, & decided I'll try to fit them in it. SOMEWHERE?
https://www.ebay.com/itm/DC-3-6v-Gear-Motor-65mm-Rubber-Tire-Wheel-smart-Arduino-Robot-Car-Yellow/302509717417?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&var=601340911461&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649
IDK if they will fit in it, or not, or how well. Once that SLOW boat from China carrying them arrives me, I'll find out if they will work.

skeeter

11-25-2017, 08:12 PM

Today, I lost a dear friend. A friend that's been there for me through thick, AND thin. A friend like no other. We thought you were a goner before, but you pulled yourself together, & soldiered on.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4541/38588741176_ac263cc754_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/21MXokJ)20171125_145000 (https://flic.kr/p/21MXokJ) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

Today when your tails shaft disintegrated, I knew it was the end. Rest In Pieces my friend, you'll truely be missed by me!
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4529/26868965939_d80dc44726_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GWjttr)20171125_144943 (https://flic.kr/p/GWjttr) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

Today at 3:15Pm, while I was attempting to craft a part for the Bruder skidsteer conversion my lil buddy, the flex shaft for my immitation dremel tool had the BIG one. The shaft that goes into the colette snapped off. It was a good run of 2+years. I suppose it is time to close this chapter, & start anew with a Dremel tool, The REAL brand name one!

Northern Farmer

11-25-2017, 08:27 PM

Well, we did it, I bought my FIRST piece of HYDRAULIC equipment. :bounce::bounce: I got this one \/

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4564/38612544171_e5080043a4_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/21Q4o9c)unnamed (81) (https://flic.kr/p/21Q4o9c) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

I'd LOVE to have made the MOSTLY 3D printes, & a little bit of CNC excavator, like Stein did, but I DON'T have access to a CNC machine! Without access to one, I decided I'd just bite the bullet & buy one during RC4WD Black Friday SALE! I feel I got a decent deal out of it. The machine, battery, extra hyd hose, plus S+H was $1644.27! By far the MOST expensive RC I've ever bought, but I feel it'll be $$ well spent.

Congrats on your new purchase :cool: You got a good deal. Check out DiggingWithMartin on youtube. He’s had his 4200 for a couple years now and know’s everything there is to know about these excavators. In the future if you ever want to upgrade the track motors take a look at Soyland Industries (Rimrock) on here.

frizzen

11-25-2017, 10:41 PM

Alas, poor flex-shaft, taken before its time. Hopefully you new fast-tool replacement lasts longer.

Hey what kinda height, width, and length do you have on that Fire Ladder? Not counting the search light, since i'd knock that off first thing. Uh, for research purposes...

skeeter

11-25-2017, 11:40 PM

I'lll have to take some measurements of the ladder, tomorrow fir ya.

HOPEFULLY Santa got the hint, & will be placing a new Dremel tool under the tree for me :popcorn: :bounce:

skeeter

11-25-2017, 11:42 PM

Congrats on your new purchase :cool: You got a good deal. Check out DiggingWithMartin on youtube. He’s had his 4200 for a couple years now and know’s everything there is to know about these excavators. In the future if you ever want to upgrade the track motors take a look at Soyland Industries (Rimrock) on here.

I feel after searching around for a LONG time, that I got a good deal price wise. I just hope it's a good deal in the long run. Meaning I hope it holds up well!

Thanks fir the info, I'll check those 2 out.

skeeter

11-25-2017, 11:54 PM

Today I made a lil more progress on the Bruder Skidsteer conversion. :) I fabbed an aluminum box to hold my Savox servo that I want to use for the boom lift. Since I had to cut the mounting tabs off to make it fit inside the model, I had to get creative with how to mount the servo. Then I used some old Traxxas parts to make a connecting rod for it. The servo horn (You guessed it) it's left over Traxxas too. A while back I'd ordered a beacon light for a different project. That light DIDN'T work well scale wise for that project, & sat in the parts bin for a lengthy period of time. Today it gained a purpose in life! :D

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4577/38588741856_15354c414a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/21MXoxs)20171125_152912 (https://flic.kr/p/21MXoxs) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4563/26868965369_e0ec80a4c7_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GWjtiB)20171125_152925 (https://flic.kr/p/GWjtiB) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4522/37760213195_3599971d65_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ZwJXQx)unnamed (86) (https://flic.kr/p/ZwJXQx) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4516/38591531806_af4bcb694e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/21NcFU3)unnamed (87) (https://flic.kr/p/21NcFU3) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4575/37760213045_4973a017f0_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ZwJXMX)unnamed (88) (https://flic.kr/p/ZwJXMX) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

11-26-2017, 12:06 AM

Now lets test things out!

Testing the programmable beacon lamp
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8EuY1RwZ4qA

Testing the boom lift
https://youtu.be/toAzzow-0nc

Um,....yeah, there's a problem here! I knew I SHOULD have tested that Savox servo PRIOR to installing it in the model! It glitches REALLY bad. Reminds me why I pulled it from the crawler to begin with! Well.............I guess tomorrow can be spent undoing what I did today, so I can change that servo to a different one. HOPEFULLY that one DOESN'T glitch like this one does! I think I will test it BEFORE installation :D

skeeter

11-26-2017, 12:10 AM

Since our little case dozer at the house is dead, we rented a D4 to finish up a lil work. I snapped some pics of the Bruder conversion with it's 1:1 likeness. After seeing the Bruder perched upon the Cat D4, I am more sure than ever that the Bruder is modeled after the D4! You take a look at pics, & decide fir yourself.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4535/26868966979_02875d1fcf_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GWjtMn)20171125_125535 (https://flic.kr/p/GWjtMn) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4541/26868968119_48e9a6f930_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GWju82)20171125_125334 (https://flic.kr/p/GWju82) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4527/38588742866_d7602590cd_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/21MXoQS)20171125_125517 (https://flic.kr/p/21MXoQS) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4522/38588744146_e962e87b53_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/21MXpdW)20171125_125250 (https://flic.kr/p/21MXpdW) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

11-26-2017, 02:10 AM

Well...................poop! I just it ate at me WHY would I put a servo into the misc parts bin, if it wasn't any good. I just had to do something about it, so I went out tested OVER a dozen servo's with the servo tester. ALL of them glitched. EVEN the brand new hitech micro servo that I just got. I think my servo tester is boogered up! Tomorrow, I'll have to make a trip to the LHS, & see if I can acquire a new servo tester, as well as a new servo. I just want to make sure that when I return home with the new tester, IF in the event all them servo's went bad (I CAN'T imagine why they would) that I have a brand new one that I can place into the skidsteer to get 'er working...........WELL, as working as can be, until the Sabertooth 2X5 gets here to make the wheels drive.

Hofabooz

11-26-2017, 06:58 AM

Hi Skeeter

It all looking good congratulations on your excavator purchase.
Will be looking forwards to seeing it and the skid steer in action soon.

skeeter

11-26-2017, 11:30 AM

Thank-you, sir! IDK if the excavator will be used until the weather dries things out a bit. It's too wet here now. I have rocky ground, but it got clay like properties to it, if that makes any sense.

HOPEFULLY tomorrow, or day after at the latest, the Sabertooth will be in my hot lil hand. Soon as that thing gets here, Skidsteer will be running.

skeeter

11-26-2017, 09:51 PM

Hey what kinda height, width, and length do you have on that Fire Ladder? Not counting the search light, since i'd knock that off first thing. Uh, for research purposes...

Frizz, the firetruck is 26 inches long from bumper to bumper. From the ground to the tallest part of the truck with the ladder stored for transit is 8.25 inches tall. The ladder from base to the end of the basket is 19 inches long while stored for transit. The truck measures 5.5 inches wide from side to side.

Since I have that d@m Skidsteer apart today, here's a couple pics of the custom fabricated mount I made to hold the servo that operates the boom lift. There's already a few sanps posted of it, but they are with it installed in the machine.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4578/26892379029_a7979e80e8_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GYotnp)unnamed (90) (https://flic.kr/p/GYotnp) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4520/37950756474_a18dc34492_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ZPzxHu)unnamed (91) (https://flic.kr/p/ZPzxHu) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

skeeter

11-27-2017, 01:28 AM

I've REALLY been wanting a CNC machine, & a lathe. I've found a lathe at Hazardous Freight (Harbor Freight) although small, it'll work for what I do, IF I can find a spot for it in the garage. ? :thinking:

I've found this CNC on Evilbay. Is it any good? will it work? Is it any good? Will it have longevity, or die within a couple projects?
https://www.ebay.com/itm/4Axis-VFD-3040-CNC-Router-Engraver-Engraving-Drilling-Milling-Machine-Desktop/401445967429?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649

tc1cat

11-27-2017, 01:44 AM

Machine would be fine for light milling in plastic only or engraving. I would not use it for much of anything other than plastic. No telling what kind of bearings are in it. Milling machines need bearings that can take a side load. Engravers and drill press' do not have bearings made for side loading. That is why a drill press will start making oval holes besides bad drill bits.

I would get a regular milling machine and convert to CNC. Need to go slow and learn process as you go. I speak from 30 years of machining experience- both manual and CNC.

skeeter

11-27-2017, 03:24 AM

frizzen

11-27-2017, 05:56 AM

Frizz, the firetruck is 26 inches long from bumper to bumper. From the ground to the tallest part of the truck with the ladder stored for transit is 8.25 inches tall. The ladder from base to the end of the basket is 19 inches long while stored for transit. The truck measures 5.5 inches wide from side to side.

Wow, i figured it was a little bigger. My fire chief is 8 1/4" tall to the light, 7 7/8" wide at the rub rail, and 26" long at bumpers.

tc1cat

11-27-2017, 10:11 AM

I really cannot praise the Sherline machines enough for a beginner. Easy to assemble and easy to use. This was my first small mill and lathe which I still have after 25 years of use. Both have been upgraded many times and very few parts replaced. While they do seem pricey at first, they are worth every penny. Size is an issue with them thou. You can just make wheels for the semis over the saddle on the lathe without some mods but the accuracy of the machines is much more than needed for this hobby. The many available options are one of the big plus' for me.

Must add that I have 6 of the Sherline machines- 3 lathes and 3 mills!

skeeter

11-27-2017, 07:39 PM

Today, I installed the new Traxxas 2075 servo into the skidsteer conversion. :D The Traxxas servo is shorter then the Savox SC-0251MG. :( Since the two are different size, I had to modify the box that I fabricated to hold the servo in place.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4584/37801453955_b977dbea71_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ZAokh8)unnamed (92) (https://flic.kr/p/ZAokh8) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr
The gears from the Savox DO, however fit the Traxxas 2075 servo's. :cool: Since they fit, I gutted the bad Savox servo, & installed the METAL gears into the Traxxas servo. :) Now I still have a metal gear servo in this thang, even if it is a slightly weaker servo than I originally wanted to use.

skeeter

12-04-2017, 12:53 AM

Since the flex shaft for the Dremel tool died, I've not been doing much lately. I've gotten spoiled with the ease of removing material(s) with it. Hopefully once Xmas is here, I'll have a new dremel tool with flex shaft, & can again start new projects. In the meanwhile, I've ordered the pump for the firetruck conversion.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/DC-3-7V-6V-Small-Gear-Pump-DC-Motor-Water-Pump-Self-suction-Pumping-Oil-Pump/112547599000?hash=item1a345c1298:g:vXsAAOSwkjNZqNY S
Alo been ordering a few other misc. parts & pieces that are needed around here.

Efroeh

12-04-2017, 02:04 AM

Awesome look forward to see your take on the fire truck conversion. I've been thinking about building one also. Keep it comming

skeeter

12-05-2017, 12:39 AM

Made a lil progress on the Bruder Skidsteer conversion tonight. This thang has been a PITA (Pain In The @zz) from day one. It all started with the disassembly, & nothing's been easy since the beginning! I thought I had it all sorted out, but ran into problem after problem with this thang. The battery pack I thought was going to fit nicely.............:lol: it didn't fit. The receiver.....well I HAD room for it, but then I had to re-arrange EVERYTHING in it! I now have to order the miniature 4channel Spektrum receiver :( I'll be impatiently awaiting it's arrival on the SLOW boat from China. Anyways, here's a couple of pics from tonights adventures with it.

The 2/3A batteries shohorned in it.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4578/38844668341_2fffc673ff_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22bz5z4)unnamed (97) (https://flic.kr/p/22bz5z4) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

The run/off/charge switch installed. It still needs dome black touch up added to it, so it looks more like an exhaust stack.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4542/38844668451_aecbabe2b5_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22bz5AX)unnamed (96) (https://flic.kr/p/22bz5AX) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

The top cover mocked in place with the new switch installed
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4540/38844668791_6789b4b62a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22bz5GP)unnamed (95) (https://flic.kr/p/22bz5GP) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

lenny

12-05-2017, 12:34 PM

Looking good with the skidsteer.. just mite be the next piece I'll be looking to buy.

skeeter

12-07-2017, 07:03 PM

Thanks for the encouragement, Lenny

Yesterday, when I arrived home from work, I had a package I've been awaiting fir a LONG long time! The SLOW boat carrying it FINALLY made it's way to me from China. :bounce: I took them, & made a pack for the skid steer conversion. The 2/3A pack fits in it, but I'd have to move EVERYTHING from where I had planned. :( Going with the 2/3AA 1800MAH batteries hopefully it's enough power to last fir a lil bit of play time in that machine. Picture below has the 2/3A pack next to the 2/3AA pack. I liked how the 2/3A pack weighted the machine slightly rear heavy, just like the 1:1 machines. Perhaps, I'll find a spot in/near the rear of the model, & give it the Skeeter special treatment........just a few ounces worth.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4561/38902100281_e4b3b35741_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22gDr5V)unnamed (98) (https://flic.kr/p/22gDr5V) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

Today I didn't work, due to a Dental appointment. :( I HATE going to them places......but when tooth is abscessed, & hurting, it's time to drag myself in there & get taken care of. When I arrived home, I had an EXCELLENT surprise awaiting me. :jump: I WASN'T expecting that package to arrive for about 4-7 more days. A great big THANK-YOU goes out to Hostile for being of assistance with acquiring this project. The Subaru WRX, I COULDN'T source locally. I inquired if he'd help me out, since they are readily available in Australia. It's sitting on my shelf, awaiting it's turn to be converted.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4539/25030570838_30b2bf2d83_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/E8SdEb)unnamed (99) (https://flic.kr/p/E8SdEb) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr
I'm excited to cut the cord off this little rice burning hot rod, but have other projects ahead of it. Once I get a few more parts, the dump truck will be taking over as the HIGHEST priority build. After all, I'll need something to haul away all that dirt that the new hoe will be digging up! :bounce:

frizzen

12-07-2017, 10:09 PM

Atleast you've got some battery options to work with. It looked like you might have been able to run 4 of the 2/3A across the back counterweight, then stick the other 2 onto that going into engine compartment?

Wait, the 2/3A are 1600, but the 2/3AA are 1800? Do the AA have a slower discharge rating?

Nice scooby, mine should just be couple days out then.

skeeter

12-08-2017, 12:36 AM

Unfortunately, neither evilbay seller was able to provide a "C" rating for the batteries, so I'm unsure.

Yes sir, your new ride SHOULDN'T be too far away.

Yeppers, I have a several options for batteries to work with. I COULD have ran the 2/3A battery pack, but then I wouldn't have room to put in the Sabertooth 2X5, or the receiver. With the smaller 2/3AA pack, I can have the Sabertooth in the back with the pack, as well as shoe horn the receiver in there too. The 4CH receiver for the Spektrum is slightly too bulky to fit under the seat area.

skeeter

12-08-2017, 11:58 PM

Tonight, after work, I tinkered with the Bruder Skidsteer conversion some more. I got as far as installing 7 testing the driveability functions. I added another 2/3AA battery to the pack. It now runs off from a 2/3AA 8.4V 1800MAH battery pack. I also got the on/off/charge switch installed. IDK, yet where I will shoehorn the charge port at on this thang. Perhaps, at/near the rear of the ROPS, on top perhaps?
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4636/38211847924_c7df0135b7_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/21dDH7d)unnamed (100) (https://flic.kr/p/21dDH7d) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

Even with the lighter weight batteries that make up the pack, the thing is still slightly heavy to the rear, just like the 1:1 is. I still think I'll do the skeeter special, just a bit to it, as it's not quite right.....yet.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4537/38040639155_51d63181a7_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ZXwdGT)unnamed (101) (https://flic.kr/p/ZXwdGT) by Anthony Kalnoski (https://www.flickr.com/photos/157093418@N06/), on Flickr

Once it FINALLY gets did loading, I'll have a short video of the driveability testing to post.