Re: First build ,cat D11
 

http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...psc34136f6.jpg
Definitely have enough tilt!!!!
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...psc697acc8.jpg
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps99ab1c44.jpg
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps0e2af6be.jpg
That's how far movement can happen before anything touches. I don't know how much tilt d11s have, maybe 15~20 degrees?? Going to start working on stabilizer arms

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Thank you, I've been blessed with some time to devote to this during the winter so I'm trying to get it together in the time I have. And I really enjoy seeing what others do, love the pics myself, so I try and take as many as I can. Hope it's not too many :)

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Looking good so far I was just wondering what u used for track I did not notice if u said also did u get plans for it r just doing out of your head but keep it up

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

For the track pads I used 1/2 x 1" bar. For the links I (think) I used 3/8 x 5/8 and used a slitting saw to cut them in half for individual pieces. I'll try and get some pics of the stuff I used and how. As far as plans, yup all in my head:eek: after numerous times forgetting measurements I started writhing simple part sketches down for my lack of memory. I did get a cat parts/shop manual. The problem with the manual is you just get some non scale drawings but at least it's something to scale off of. And a bunch of pics of dozers from the web. I am trying to build a d11 but it has some blend of d9 also. A local cat dozer dealer is about three miles from home so I could see some machines firsthand. But they never get a d11 sitting around that is assembled. Too big and expensive, they usually go right to the job site.

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps5025d71c.jpg
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...pse7ffa245.jpg
Added a little of the detail.
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps79fbcb07.jpg
Work on the side of the engine compartment and trying to blend into the front. Wanted to make the front sides a bit beefy for the blade hydraulics to attach to. Not sure how I'm going to accomplish that part, it's like cast into the side. Might mill a slot into,,,,well when I get there I'll be straining the brain again :)

http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps43533ab6.jpg
I did re-do the roller wheels. Same internal size but made to look bigger. I think it make a big difference in appearance.

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps8fafeb94.jpg
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...psb689d4da.jpg
Working on the skid plate for front. Hats off to you metal workers!! Seems simple and easy but trying to transfer measurements from paper template to the actual metal shape is a bit of luck for me. Some minor tweeting but it will fit. I'm going to be bolting it to frame. Originally I was going to wrap it up the sides like the 1:1 dozers but a bit too complex for me:)

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

You did a fine job yourself. :cool:

What gauge is that?

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...psce2f87a7.jpg
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps10b3dcf1.jpg
A couple more in process,,,,

Lil giant, I'm working with 22guage, thin enough to burn through during welding very easy and thick enough to not be able to use hand shears. Just the right size to make it hard to work with (for me:).

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps1d2f4ae5.jpg
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...psa8cc81cf.jpg
I think I'll have the skid plates done by weekend. Have to weld two pieces yet. But this is what I've come up with so far. I have a 2-56 broken tap in one of those holes and I over tightened a brass 2-56 screw trying to get the metal to lay a little more flat and twisted the head off. More work!! I'm going to mill out the tap and drill out the brass then I'm going to try that aluma-weld stuff. If that does the job I'll be able to re drill and tap new holes. It just adds more time and the p.i.t.a. Aspect. :). Have some materials for hydraulics coming later in week, so I guess I'll be needing to get valves and pump soon. I think the pump and valves will be the bullet-biting expense. Once I get my fingers on one I'll try and make my own for other projects.

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps2a9dbc3d.jpg
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps3a1aa8bc.jpg
Figured I will need to have rotational movement if I plan to have a tilting blade. I will be using stainless with a setscrew as a retainer for the pivot shaft.

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps3f0713c1.jpg
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps1ae411ba.jpg
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps830b2126.jpg
Here's one for you lil'giants, I saw you recently got a "smart" phone ,, lol, actually once I figured out how to make a simple call all was good. There are some very useful apps, this one comes in handy a lot!! And it is surprisingly accurate. More than I can use a sight level. But it did take me an hour or so trying to figure out how to switch all the views :)

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

I figured this was the easiest way for a chain adjuster/tensioner. It's simply a idler, a flanged bearing, with an offset center that I can set the free play. As I didn't think a spring tensioner would work on account of both forward and reverse tension applies. In the pic you can see by the first one the top chain is curved. And the bottom pic with the tensioner adjusted the top chain is straight from sprocket to sprocket, and that is forward rotation to where more pressure (should) be applied by pushing a load.
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps92831b5a.jpg
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps9c24b656.jpg


And a pic of the part, I'll be using a tooth washer for some more security of keeping it in position.
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps1b1c931b.jpg

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

And if I show the good I guess I have to show the bad. I broke a 2-56 tap off in one hole and spun the head off a brass 2-56 bolt. So I decided to mill out the broken and use that aluminum weld stick stuff. I watched some tube videos and tried it. Well the vids make it look fast, I heated and heated with mapp gas. Well I just missed that magical temp as by the time I was done fixing the holes I had a big drooping bulge of liquid aluminum on the bottom. Well once I learned how to use it the second part was pretty easy. That stuff comes in handy. But now even though I was using it to fix a part and save some machine time by not having to remake the part I think I will anyway.
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps7003d1a5.jpg
First try.

http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...psfdb72e62.jpg

Second part, top hole was the one remade.

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Thank you Cooper for the tip on the phone app, I'll look at doing the same for my phone too. ;)

And the set up pics of machined parts, I'd be interested in seeing more of them too. My knowledge of machining & how to do it safe & accurately is very limited. I've just got a mini mill right now in my house, never did anything too complicated with it b/c of its lack of rigidity. But my soon to be finished garage will be getting a bigger one this fall, probably one like yours & I'll look forward to do more of my own machining. And tips on accessories you use during your build would be a plus as well, plz. ;)

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Will include some more of the machining pics. I can't say I know what I'm doing as these are scratch builds from air plans but I always figure there is a way for something to be done. Ya know that old saying if there's a will there's a way, well s few scrap parts and some broken tools later , yes there is. Lol,,,,

Have some more work to do but a pic of the skid plates. One front and one back. Both bolted on. I had to file a housing support on the motor gear housing down some but other than that it a pretty snug fit. At least keeping some debris out.
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps18ca4789.jpg
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...psf2e6af7f.jpg

And a side shot, starting to figure out operator housing and stabilizer bar.
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps216e96b3.jpg
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps0b61f3d4.jpg
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps7625dafe.jpg

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Nice work!

Where will the hydraulics fit?? lol!

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Hey Cooper,
What's the name of the APP? I downloaded tilt meter but it's different to your screen shot.
Thanks

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps0c0337f6.jpg

I'm using an iphone5 and new iPad for these apps. Cliinometer is the name of the app. I've compared it to other levels and it has been more accurate than any sight level I've used.

http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...psb543f2a1.jpg
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps56cf6050.jpg

It was dark so just the screen is visible not the phone or couch it was on. :). And there is a couple machinist apps. But the only thing I find useful is wire size and drill size decimals or tap drill sizes. I don't use any of the feed or speed guides as I just feed and cut by feel and sight.

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Lol, yes the motors fill up quite a bit of space. I might be thankful that I'm making a blacked out cab, I may need that area for electronics. In a serious note I have not handled any of these pumps or valve blocks but by seeing them on the forum and for sale sites I do think things will be crowded. 5 valves (independent tilt cylinders) sabertooth esc, (forget but about 4" wide) lipo batteries, sound module , speaker, thinking about a computer fan in front grill for added cooling, and hydro pump with motor attached.
After reading what I just wrote it does sound like it will be crowded!! I think its time to order pump and valves before placement of those parts. Might be a bit of puzzle. :).

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

How much space do you have in front of the motors ? It looks like you may be able to put the jung set up Fumotec uses . This is where I placed mine on my TD 40 and plan to put a fan on the back side of the pump motor (outrunner )

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

I'm thinking I'll have plenty of room now that I started on the body work.


http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps434648bc.jpg
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...psef81f9b2.jpg
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps3efb9f1f.jpg

I didn't want to take the time and make a grill like the 1:1 has and I had some of this perforated material laying around.

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

And this is a good lesson to just tack things in place before completely securing them. I finally made some good welds on the blade lift cylinder mounts. After done I attached to the machine only to find out the blade cylinders should be somewhat in line with the arm mounts of it puts stress on hydraulics when tilting. Guess better now than later.
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps525bd3bc.jpg


And the lower relocation of the cylinder mounts.

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...psf89fb249.jpg
Oops forgot to add pic.

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

You need to add spherical rod ends on the cylinder rods.
I helped a mechanic install a blade on a D11N back a few years ago. We a had a heck of a time getting the push arms aligned because it was a low hour machine at the time. The mechanic got his torch out and started cutting the spherical bearing just as the big boss came around and gave him h e ll.:cop: The next morning I was passing by and the Cat Dealer mechanic was there installing a new push arm end.

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Yes I have them for all the moveable cylinders.
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps62d6851c.jpg

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...psd68e49ff.jpg
Started work on cab. It looks big but scale is correct. Maybe once side tanks and rops are on will look ok.

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Got a little more done. The metalwork is not my favorite thing to do. But I'm getting a little better at the welding.
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps0954cb23.jpg

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps04e108aa.jpg
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...psa54a8799.jpg
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...psd40f0d24.jpg

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Hey Cooper, How many Hours are you spending each day on this project?
You are flying along :jaw:, I know we can spend a whole day in the workshop at the weekend and still not make the progress you make in a couple of days during the week.:(

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Great work looks great keep up the excellent job. Ed

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

wow looking great good detail can wait to see it push so dirt I found it very tight to put all my electrics and pump in my dozer. I think that's an art all by it self
patrick

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Haha, I tried working once, I didn't like it. Lol,,,,, na,, I'm in a slow time of the year. And lately I've been trying to keep out in the garage as we have a Great Dane puppy that is **** in the house!!! Wife like to deal with that. Lol. Plus once the weather breaks I'll be busy and not have much time to devote to the toys.

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

I added some hinges so it will be easier to gain access to guts.
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps55dc6300.jpg

And I tried to tuck them under the overhang of the back so they aren't noticeable.
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps47c3e3c9.jpg

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

I know I'm not much of a welder, but I'm slowly getting better. Nothing that bondo wouldn't fix. :).
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps0790cf71.jpg
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...psa95f1237.jpg
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps93ba83dc.jpg

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

And I figured I would reinforce and needed to secure the screen somehow. I just tacked some bent metal to sides. Added a lot of stability and clamped the screen in place as it's aluminum not steel.
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps5dc1df8a.jpg
And once smoke stacks are located a support will be tacked in top also.

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

I'm planning on having a small computer fan in front for some cooling. I left a small louvre in the top of the cab for some air to pass.
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...psb51b6953.jpg

And again I'm not too good at the welds towards the back.

http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps6a25484f.jpg

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

So some idea of the access to the internals.
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps2f21692a.jpg
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...psa4ce6b94.jpg
http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/...ps718a43d9.jpg

And everything in the cab area that folds up is open space. Originally I was going to use the side tank for excess hydro fluid but I'm just not confident in my welding that it would end up giving me fits.

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Amazing quality build, Good job so far Cooper:D

Re: First build ,cat D11
 

Thanks,, it's one of those good from far but far from good!!! Lol! That's the welding mess. Well I'm definitely addicted to the construction equipment stuff. I'm sure more builds will be in the future. As my metal welding skills can get better. (I hope!). I guess its like drywall, the smoother the first coat the less work on the last.