Re: First build ,cat D11
 

I have seen timing chain tensioners used that simply apply pressure on the chain with the use of a slippery plastic. However you may need to use a threaded rod on that idler gear as you won't have a constant source of lubrication. Maybe a hydrolic type tensioner pushing on the idle gear bracket?

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

I was trying to think of something that would complicate such a simple idea. :) lol,,,, I do like your idea of some sort of hydraulic tensioner. Thank you for the idea, but for my Lego mind storming I'm just going off that idea and thinking of something like an idler sprocket or just a simple wheel (wheel would probably be better) on a spring loaded shaft. The spring would keep some tension on it but the shaft would stop it from giving too much. As tension would reverse from one direction to the other. Like a double pulley on a shaft with a mount in the middle, keeps tension but limits travel. Yea,yea,yea,, it sounds complicated but is quite simple with one moving part.

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Yep that would be basicly the same principal but use of a spring instead of hydroloc.

Also depending how you mount the wiper motors. You possible could incorporate a jack screw to adjust the motor to pull the chain taught... Kinda like a motorcycle rear wheel is adjusted to take up slack...

Ok not my build...I'll shut up now! ;). LOL

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Don't forget about half links for adjustment!
Cheers, Neil.

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

I forget but think its #25 chain?? Small stuff from robot marketplace. I'll have to look into 1/2 links if need.

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

I'm not a machinist , just learning. But for you that are I didn't want to spend $ for a insert grooving tool (and don't like to wait for mail )that I don't think I will use much. I did a little research and tried to grind one out. It's a hss blank and I have the end just a touch wider. Will it be ok to use it with the top staying flat? Many set it a touch below center? Planning on using it on some 1/2" stuff. Only a groove deep enough for retaining clips.
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps718c0c31.jpg
And got the motor mounted, will be counter sinking bolts or using button head.
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...pse310892d.jpg

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

You should be fine if you have a small relief on the bottom too . I've cut 100's of grooves with home ground grooving tools . If you need any help come down to the shop anytime , I'm about an hr south of Williamsport .

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Thank you for the invite, might have to look you up, or keep me in mind to notify of any shows, clubs, pertaining to rc trucks, equipment in our area. Closest rc to me is hidden hanger, takes me about 45min. I live about 10min south of Williamsport.

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Got some time between shoveling snow to get the motors mounted. I have to shave about 1/32 off each motor gear housing to get them to fit. They look big in there, i don't think this will be underpowered as the weight go on.
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps6443cbbf.jpg

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

You have done an excellent job so far keep up the good work. Ed

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Very nice! Cant wait to see more!

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Very neat a clean job. Should be very quiet. Keep the pics coming.

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps5b6a7080.jpg
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps3f3fe4d9.jpg
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps52cdac6f.jpg
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps56e743df.jpg

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Yes, also the cab, I want to be able to push dirt this summer. I'm not planning on doing an interior. Going to just use smoked glass for the cab. So all the cab room will be able to house electronics ect. Possibly in another build I will be willing to tackle the small details of interior operators compartment but for now I've got my hands full on just the mechanical workings. :)

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

I'm interested in seeing how those motors hold up in heavy pushing. I see those on evilbbay. sure hope you can make it down to York in April to display your "work in progress"
we have an outdoor show at the Brownsvville,PA twice a year where I set up a pile of dirt to work off in may and August.

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Looks good , will you have it pushing for cabin fever expo in April ? That's the closest show to me in York ,an hr and 15 min south of me . I'm going to try to get to the national pike shows in Brownsville , pa this year . All dirt shows for us :D

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Wow! Awesome job:jaw:. Keep up the momentum!

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Its taking shape now, looking good!
Cheers, Neil.

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Very nice work and you are moving right along with this project. Ed

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...psce73a8fa.jpg
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps90f3f83a.jpg
Don't ya hate it when you are all proud and excited that a plan comes together just to realize you $&@##% up??? Lol,,, the 4 holes in the pusher arms were not planned to show, measured and drilled/ countersunk bolts from other side. But forgot I had to take off material from the front side!!! Oh well maybe a little bondo when paint time comes. Going to start work on the blade and front radiator hood.

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Looks very good can wait to see it in the dirt.

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Don't sweat the little stuff! Its still an outstanding model:D:D:D
Cheer's, Neil.

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps53fdc51a.jpg
Starting on the blade. It would be so nice to make a straight pusher blade, I could just stick sides on and be done. But,,,,, I've got no experience in metal fabrication, so what fun would that be:). These are the first two pieces of metal I have ever sheared or rolled. I'm planning on making the carry/dump blade with cutting edges. I don't think I'm going to get too detailed with all the bends but would like to make the ends somewhat realistic. My welding skills are,,,well we will have to see if I post any of them. :). Lol!!! I weld like an old hit n miss engin, sometimes good and sometimes bad in the same bead.
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps7cdb5742.jpg
I originally was using hard rubber grommets for the degree of movement in the blade arms. Had to go to hardware store this morning and found they have rod ends. I cut off the threads and ground to close to round then pressed them into the hole. They will definitely not be coming out. But now I have a nearly indestructible pivot point. And got some for the stabilizer bar too.

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Thanks, yea, by the time I'm done,,,,,,I'm sure I will be seeing a lot of places wher the camera doesn't take pics:).

Damm,,, got to go plow more snow!!!!! I was born in Florida and need to get back to the sand and sun:rolleyes:

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

When and where, I would like very much to go. Cabin fever in Harrisburg? Let me know, thanks.

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Here is the link. I am looking forward to seeing you there.
http://www.cabinfeverexpo.com/index.html

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

edit : Steve beat me to it

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Just cut the sides of your blade out of poster board, to find the right shape, then you will have templates to make the rest of your blade.
Cheers, Neil.

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...psfeb56b56.jpg
Figured I need to have some sort of internal support. Using 22guage steel. I figure I can weld onto the blade then together with a couple holes in the back plate. Then I will be able to have a few spots welded to the back as well. Will be able to hide them easily too.

Yes I will be doing that Neil, using the cardboard sheet for perishable templates will make things a lot easier for my right angle mind. Always have fits when installing cove moulding on slanted ceilings around corners!!!!

And I will definitely be trying to make some time for any shows in or around my area.

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

There is a lot of them in your area throughout the yr, you are blessed! :)

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Cool! you're ahead of me :D
Cheers, Neil.

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Cabin Fever is in York PA not Harrisburg just thought I'd let you know. Ed

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Just remember , what you are about to see is from a professional metal welder/fabricator. Reality------my welding skills are a work in progress,,, first time welding on such thin material!! I have to trim the sides and build rock guard, cutting edges, mounting brackets but the big idea is done. Well it's definitely a carry blade.
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...pse7da2b84.jpg
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...psbf3683f3.jpg
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps6d2aeb65.jpg
I did get the internal bracing in and it really stiffened it up!!
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps3f60d51b.jpg
I added a small strip of steel so I will have something to bolt cutting edges to.
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...psa7070b95.jpg

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

And the bottom side
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...psed0ce353.jpg
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps1d502355.jpg
Topside with tractor
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps53a96608.jpg

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps7b6c1781.jpg
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps293b5396.jpg

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Oh forgot two, and can anyone say bondo??? Lol. :)

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps31547b09.jpg
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps8d3f49de.jpg
Got cutting edge and side edges on. I was going to have a scale bolt on cutting edge, but I decided to save some time and skip that. Now I have to grind welds down and have some automotive metal filler. I guess its like bondo but a little stronger? Maybe it's just a half gallon bucket do jb weld. Lol!! This should be able to have the final outcome pretty smooth and straight, I hope.

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Looking good. Keep up the great work

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Boy, you first build guys really know how to show even the veterans up! The Cat D11 is looking very nice, and you are making excellent progress. Keep it up. I never get tired of watching builds like yours come together.

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps73a42d02.jpg
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...psdc702fea.jpg
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps61f83d1d.jpg
So far this little piece has given me the most fits!!!! I'm not an engineer so I figure the mechanics of real machinery is working so use similar. I made this pivot block to where only one set screw will be needed and will be hidden. Gonna have to start thinking about hydros. Where do you guys get your bushings/ seals for piston rods and what size hose and fittings should I be getting? 1:14 scale.