Bucyrus Erie 40H Excavator 1:14

[Machfab]

After great inspiration from many on this forum, I have decided to construct an rc excavator. I have been designing and machining industrial parts for the last 36 years. I have always loved watching and operating heavy equipment. Still have a long ways to go, but have really enjoyed so far. not sure if the pic will come thru;)
5603

[TheBennyB]

Can't see the pic. I have the same problem. I did find if you can get the pic below 100 bytes it will alteast show up as a clickable tagline but not the actual pic. Seems most are using an external service to post links to such as photobucket. Looking forward to your build.

[Machfab]

Maybe this time

http://i483.photobucket.com/albums/rr192/MACHFAB/Capture.png

[Rakthi]

An interesting project! Hope you are going to have a build thread!

http://i483.photobucket.com/albums/rr192/MACHFAB/Capture.png (http://s483.photobucket.com/user/MACHFAB/media/Capture.png.html)

In Photobucket, under "share" on the right side of the screen is a box with IMG in front and an [URL= etc etc code inside. Click on that box. It will turn yellow and display copied. Then come here and paste what was copied in the reply box.

To make sure it worked press on Preview Post at the bottom (that is if you are in the advanced reply box)

You can place 15 images per reply.

[TheBennyB]

Bingo! You had better luck than I on getting photobucket to upload. Now the big question is will you go with the calendar, canvas wrap, or holiday photo card?

[bigford]

look like a big girl
http://i483.photobucket.com/albums/rr192/MACHFAB/img04.jpg (http://s483.photobucket.com/user/MACHFAB/media/img04.jpg.html)

[Machfab]

Will have a build thread with design, machining, and assembly. It will be hydraulic for the boom, stick, and bucket. Gearmotors for the swing and tracks.
I will need plenty of help along the way. Glad you guys are here!

http://i483.photobucket.com/albums/rr192/MACHFAB/Capture-1.png (http://s483.photobucket.com/user/MACHFAB/media/Capture-1.png.html)

[sparkycuda]

I grew up with Bucyrus Erie products, so it nice to see one being built. The H-series excavators were very advanced for their day, and one of the first to use fiberglass cabs and body panels. Powerful machines using gear-type hydraulic pumps and a big engine - normal for then.

Looking forward to watching this come together.

Ken

[Machfab]

I am attempting to be as close to "true-scale" as possible. I used the factory spec sheet for a reference. Was the cab position (on the right side) a carry-over from their cranes?

[sparkycuda]

Well, seems my brain was a lot slower than my fingers on the keyboard! The 300 Series (300-H/350-H late 1970s) excavators had fiberglass cabs... The 30-H/40-H models were just before 300 Series. I've never heard why cabs were located but a discussion thread on Heavy Equipment Forums about 5 years ago gave information that no standard existed in the early years and manufacturers followed what they had done before on cranes. Seems the left-side standard may have started when the Japanese started leading the world in excavator engineering, and everyone followed after that. But still no actual reason why left verses right that I have found.

Ken

[sparkycuda]

I took a look this afternoon and I do have access to a 40-H Operator Manual. It has specs and several dimensioned drawings, along with b&w pics of various components and assemblies (mostly for maintenance purposes). If you have need of specific information, let me know and I'll see if can furnish copies of pages.

Ken

[Machfab]

I took a look this afternoon and I do have access to a 40-H Operator Manual. It has specs and several dimensioned drawings, along with b&w pics of various components and assemblies (mostly for maintenance purposes). If you have need of specific information, let me know and I'll see if can furnish copies of pages.

Ken

That would be very helpful!
I have been looking for a manual.

[Machfab]

Design finished for the most part. Added cylinders. Time to start machining!
http://i483.photobucket.com/albums/rr192/MACHFAB/Capture5-7-16.png (http://s483.photobucket.com/user/MACHFAB/media/Capture5-7-16.png.html)

[SteinHDan]

Cool!! I can't wait!

Stein :-)

[Machfab]

Beginning the machining phase of the build.
Track rollers machined on the turning center.

http://i483.photobucket.com/albums/rr192/MACHFAB/21a54f38-f866-4580-8474-93725f7ac206.jpg (http://s483.photobucket.com/user/MACHFAB/media/21a54f38-f866-4580-8474-93725f7ac206.jpg.html)

http://i483.photobucket.com/albums/rr192/MACHFAB/IMG_08701.jpg (http://s483.photobucket.com/user/MACHFAB/media/IMG_08701.jpg.html)

[Rvjimd]

Holy Cow, that is some fancy turning machine you have there! I could probably figure out how to turn it off but that would be it. :p

Do you have any schedule you are trying to keep with the build? I'll be watching!

Jim

[Machfab]

Thanks for the complement! I own (or it owns me) machine shop. This is one of our turning centers that had some open time, so I jumped in. My hope is to be able to dig in the sand at Myrtle Beach next summer with the Bucyrus.

[Machfab]

Cutting out the Track Frame pieces on the Diesel powered waterjet.
http://i483.photobucket.com/albums/rr192/MACHFAB/IMG_08721.jpg (http://s483.photobucket.com/user/MACHFAB/media/IMG_08721.jpg.html) track frame pieces on the diesel powered waterjet.
http://i483.photobucket.com/albums/rr192/MACHFAB/IMG_08731.jpg (http://s483.photobucket.com/user/MACHFAB/media/IMG_08731.jpg.html)
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http://i483.photobucket.com/albums/rr192/MACHFAB/IMG_08751.jpg (http://s483.photobucket.com/user/MACHFAB/media/IMG_08751.jpg.html)

[Machfab]

Machining Sprockets and Idlers

http://i483.photobucket.com/albums/rr192/MACHFAB/IMG_09001.jpg (http://s483.photobucket.com/user/MACHFAB/media/IMG_09001.jpg.html)

http://i483.photobucket.com/albums/rr192/MACHFAB/IMG_08991.jpg (http://s483.photobucket.com/user/MACHFAB/media/IMG_08991.jpg.html)

[modelman]

I like the old machines and I got excited when I saw the title of your thread-Bucyrus erie excavator and I thought you were building an old cable machine but I see you are going the hyd. way like everyone seems to be doing. I will watch anyway because I enjoy nice machine work. Looks good so far.

[Machfab]

Machining the Track Sections.

http://i483.photobucket.com/albums/rr192/MACHFAB/IMG_09011_1.jpg (http://s483.photobucket.com/user/MACHFAB/media/IMG_09011_1.jpg.html)

http://i483.photobucket.com/albums/rr192/MACHFAB/IMG_09021.jpg (http://s483.photobucket.com/user/MACHFAB/media/IMG_09021.jpg.html)

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http://i483.photobucket.com/albums/rr192/MACHFAB/IMG_09041.jpg (http://s483.photobucket.com/user/MACHFAB/media/IMG_09041.jpg.html)

http://i483.photobucket.com/albums/rr192/MACHFAB/IMG_09051.jpg (http://s483.photobucket.com/user/MACHFAB/media/IMG_09051.jpg.html)

[doodlebug]

There's a 40h for sale on the H C E A page on Face Book, don't know how far away it is from you?
Cheers!

[Machfab]

Machining the Sprocket Drive Adapter Housing.

http://i483.photobucket.com/albums/rr192/MACHFAB/8c164d85-de8f-47d0-86ae-34ed29d8fccc.jpg (http://s483.photobucket.com/user/MACHFAB/media/8c164d85-de8f-47d0-86ae-34ed29d8fccc.jpg.html)

http://i483.photobucket.com/albums/rr192/MACHFAB/IMG_09101.jpg (http://s483.photobucket.com/user/MACHFAB/media/IMG_09101.jpg.html)

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[Machfab]

There's a 40h for sale on the H C E A page on Face Book, don't know how far away it is from you?
Cheers!

About a 10 hr drive. I would love to just be able to see one up close and maybe even dig a few bucketfulls!!

[Machfab]

Track Frame Assembly
http://i483.photobucket.com/albums/rr192/MACHFAB/IMG_09241.jpg (http://s483.photobucket.com/user/MACHFAB/media/IMG_09241.jpg.html)

http://i483.photobucket.com/albums/rr192/MACHFAB/IMG_09251.jpg (http://s483.photobucket.com/user/MACHFAB/media/IMG_09251.jpg.html)

[jack van]

looking real good so far will be watching this build

[Rvjimd]

I'm interested to see the coupling or whatever to connect from the motor shaft to the sprocket. Jim

[ihbuilder]

which milltronics do you have ? How do you like it ?

[Machfab]

I'm interested to see the coupling or whatever to connect from the motor shaft to the sprocket. Jim


Coupling is a Mcmaster Carr part

http://i483.photobucket.com/albums/rr192/MACHFAB/MCM%20Coupling.jpg (http://s483.photobucket.com/user/MACHFAB/media/MCM%20Coupling.jpg.html)

[Machfab]

which milltronics do you have ? How do you like it ?

Actually have several Milltronics.
Started back in the mid-90's and still have the original machine.
MB20, VM17, RW15, VM2016, ML17, SL10

Have had excellent service out of these machines.
They use "off the shelf" components for the electrical and electronic systems.
The only proprietary component is 1 motion control card.
Factory is always helpful if the need occours.
Interface is really easy to navigate.

[ihbuilder]

Vm16 here and mazak qt10 . I have a milltronics salesman coming Monday on a vm5020 . He quoted me 80k base for that 1. They seem to offer more then haas on the base machine . I guess they replace the vm25 which I'm looking at used . If they're hight is right on the website , it'll fit in my current shop so I still only need to heat 1 building .


Nice work on the B&E so far ;)

[Howie]

This is one unreal build!! Keep the photos coming, and a video when done.

[Machfab]

Vm16 here and mazak qt10 . I have a milltronics salesman coming Monday on a vm5020 . He quoted me 80k base for that 1. They seem to offer more then haas on the base machine . I guess they replace the vm25 which I'm looking at used . If they're hight is right on the website , it'll fit in my current shop so I still only need to heat 1 building .


Nice work on the B&E so far ;)

VM 5020, should be a nice machine!
Thanks for the complement!

[Machfab]

Assembled Turret to Track Frame

http://i483.photobucket.com/albums/rr192/MACHFAB/IMG_09271.jpg (http://s483.photobucket.com/user/MACHFAB/media/IMG_09271.jpg.html)

http://i483.photobucket.com/albums/rr192/MACHFAB/IMG_09281.jpg (http://s483.photobucket.com/user/MACHFAB/media/IMG_09281.jpg.html)

[gmailol]

Hi there! RC construction has recently become my hobby No 1. You know, I always wanted to learn what real farming is. I'm highly interested in the agriculture equipment like those on https://cranenetwork.com/ (https://cranenetwork.com/) website. I have just one question, what should I focus on to get involved into the real agriculture world?

[Machfab]

Hi there! RC construction has recently become my hobby No 1. You know, I always wanted to learn what real farming is. I'm highly interested in the agriculture equipment like those on https://cranenetwork.com/ (https://cranenetwork.com/) website. I have just one question, what should I focus on to get involved into the real agriculture world?

It really depends on your skill level and access to equipment. If you enjoy building, I would get a few model kits and progress to making from scratch.
Hope this helps.

[modelman]

Hi there! RC construction has recently become my hobby No 1. You know, I always wanted to learn what real farming is. I'm highly interested in the agriculture equipment like those on https://cranenetwork.com/ (https://cranenetwork.com/) website. I have just one question, what should I focus on to get involved into the real agriculture world?

Cranes don't have much to do with farming but if you are into cranes, check out-kerst's cranes on this forum. He has some amazing models.

[Machfab]

Track assembly. MY FINGERS ARE TIRED!!!

http://i483.photobucket.com/albums/rr192/MACHFAB/IMG_09411.jpg (http://s483.photobucket.com/user/MACHFAB/media/IMG_09411.jpg.html)

http://i483.photobucket.com/albums/rr192/MACHFAB/IMG_09421.jpg (http://s483.photobucket.com/user/MACHFAB/media/IMG_09421.jpg.html)

[modelman]

Looks really good!! That is a lot of small pcs. I can't see the size of the pins you used but I know they are small. Keep posting pictures.

[Machfab]

They are 7/64" roll pins. I hope they work well.

[Machfab]

Video of track running:

https://youtu.be/G7qt4MTGmSQ

[Machfab]

Beginning work on the "House".

http://i483.photobucket.com/albums/rr192/MACHFAB/IMG_09651.jpg (http://s483.photobucket.com/user/MACHFAB/media/IMG_09651.jpg.html)

http://i483.photobucket.com/albums/rr192/MACHFAB/IMG_09661.jpg (http://s483.photobucket.com/user/MACHFAB/media/IMG_09661.jpg.html)

http://i483.photobucket.com/albums/rr192/MACHFAB/IMG_09671.jpg (http://s483.photobucket.com/user/MACHFAB/media/IMG_09671.jpg.html)

[Jared]

That's looking pretty dang good! Tracks look great!

[Machfab]

Thanks for the complement! I have really enjoyed this build!

[Mustang46555]

Very nice build.
Have been watching it with interest, I have a friend at work that used to work at Bucyrus Erie and actually machined parts for the 40H. He did the big turret gears.

[Hofabooz]

Hi

This is a great build thread.
Thanks for sharing.
I will look forward to watching this progress.

[Machfab]

Finished machining the Boom Clevis

http://i483.photobucket.com/albums/rr192/MACHFAB/IMG_10021.jpg (http://s483.photobucket.com/user/MACHFAB/media/IMG_10021.jpg.html)

http://i483.photobucket.com/albums/rr192/MACHFAB/IMG_10011.jpg (http://s483.photobucket.com/user/MACHFAB/media/IMG_10011.jpg.html)

http://i483.photobucket.com/albums/rr192/MACHFAB/IMG_09991.jpg (http://s483.photobucket.com/user/MACHFAB/media/IMG_09991.jpg.html)

[Rvjimd]

Nice, I always like these sort of progress photos showing machined parts.

Jim

[Jared]

Looks sharp! I've never been able to decide when drilling smaller holes in a part like that if it should be done before or after milling. If before, it's a deep hole and more opportunity for the bit to wander. If after, the ears might bend if too much pressure is applied also causing the bit to wander. Anyone got an opinion or am I worrying about nothing?

[egronvold]

This will be a nice machine. Real heavy duty parts :)

[thebigo]

Nice... Looks like fun, wished I had your machining experience....

David

[Machfab]

Looks sharp! I've never been able to decide when drilling smaller holes in a part like that if it should be done before or after milling. If before, it's a deep hole and more opportunity for the bit to wander. If after, the ears might bend if too much pressure is applied also causing the bit to wander. Anyone got an opinion or am I worrying about nothing?

Most of the time, I will drill and ream the holes and then machine away the material.

[ihbuilder]

Looks sharp! I've never been able to decide when drilling smaller holes in a part like that if it should be done before or after milling. If before, it's a deep hole and more opportunity for the bit to wander. If after, the ears might bend if too much pressure is applied also causing the bit to wander. Anyone got an opinion or am I worrying about nothing?

I drill ream after . I always spot drill 1st and with proper F&S I've never had an issue unless I didn't spot drill . It also helps to keep your drill bits sharp .

[skeeter]

Are there any updates on this build?

[Machfab]

Yes, I have been working on the boom section and it is almost finished.
I would like to post some pics, but what is everybody doing for a host source?

[Bo Wallen]

Yes, I have been working on the boom section and it is almost finished.
I would like to post some pics, but what is everybody doing for a host source?

Looking forward to see your machine. If you chose Flickr you don't have to deal with ads and crap.

[skeeter]

I use flicker.com as it's still free. There are other options, but this is the one that I use.

[Machfab]

Boom, Stick, and Bucket complete. Time for hydraulics!

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4632/25314453237_2713b0f90b_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/EyXc1i)IMG_0490 (https://flic.kr/p/EyXc1i) by Lyn Byrd (https://www.flickr.com/photos/139956476@N02/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4619/40186333021_5374ae6951_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24e8sJH)IMG_0489 (https://flic.kr/p/24e8sJH) by Lyn Byrd (https://www.flickr.com/photos/139956476@N02/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4751/25314452207_5cf9cddc11_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/EyXbGx)IMG_0492 (https://flic.kr/p/EyXbGx) by Lyn Byrd (https://www.flickr.com/photos/139956476@N02/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4701/25314451777_9162977421_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/EyXbz8)IMG_0493 (https://flic.kr/p/EyXbz8) by Lyn Byrd (https://www.flickr.com/photos/139956476@N02/), on Flickr

[Jared]

Looking great! Is the stick a solid piece? I'm guessing the boom is solid, too, just two pieces welded together at the bend?

[Machfab]

Looking great! Is the stick a solid piece? I'm guessing the boom is solid, too, just two pieces welded together at the bend?

Yes, Stick is solid and Boom is solid but welded at the bend. I wanted some weight in the boom to add some "backpressure" on the hydraulics to make the movements more realistic. I might end up having to remove some weight by "pocketing" the underside.

[Rimrock]

just a small note, would advice a bigger turning motor, same as the track motors you've got (another gear ratio) Such size gearmotors are the 'standard', and about got enough power (but could be even more powerful)

[Machfab]

just a small note, would advice a bigger turning motor, same as the track motors you've got (another gear ratio) Such size gearmotors are the 'standard', and about got enough power (but could be even more powerful)

Was going to try the small one first and then go to the larger one if needed.

[Lil Giants]

Looks HUGE! :cool:

What's your boom/stick weigh?

The boom/stick of the Vario are paired 5mm plate steel incased in GFR, they're heavy! (don't know weight) A combo of EPA & curve in radio settings, the movements of each are smooth with twin 18mm bores on the boom & 22mm on the stick @35Bar - 1.8L flow

[Machfab]

Looks HUGE! :cool:

What's your boom/stick weigh?

The boom/stick of the Vario are paired 5mm plate steel incased in GFR, they're heavy! (don't know weight) A combo of EPA & curve in radio settings, the movements of each are smooth with twin 18mm bores on the boom & 22mm on the stick @35Bar - 1.8L flow

I would guess about 8 lbs. I will test “as-is” and then reduce weight if needed. I don’t think hydraulic power will be a problem.

[Lil Giants]

You making your own hydraulic system too?

[Machfab]

You making your own hydraulic system too?

Planning to use Magom cylinders and RC4wd pump.

[Lil Giants]

That'll be interesting to see how that combo handles the high pressure :thinking:

RC4WD valves too?

[Machfab]

That'll be interesting to see how that combo handles the high pressure :thinking:

RC4WD valves too?

Yes, RC4wd valves to start with. If problems arise, I will make my own or improve what I have.

[Machfab]

3D Printed cab parts

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1890/30629449598_a89f305827_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/NEBWfA)IMG_0631[1] (https://flic.kr/p/NEBWfA) by Lyn Byrd (https://www.flickr.com/photos/139956476@N02/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1842/30629432798_9158cb5243_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/NEBRfW)IMG_0630[1] (https://flic.kr/p/NEBRfW) by Lyn Byrd (https://www.flickr.com/photos/139956476@N02/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1843/43589627155_114d75ae3d_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/29pSevM)IMG_0629[1] (https://flic.kr/p/29pSevM) by Lyn Byrd (https://www.flickr.com/photos/139956476@N02/), on Flickr

[Zabco]

Really glad to see work is continuing on this. Great job, please keep posting updates.

[Machfab]

More progress. Added hydraulic cylinders and bucket.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1844/42926755290_6c3a16e325.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/28phQNw)IMG_0642 (https://flic.kr/p/28phQNw) by Lyn Byrd (https://www.flickr.com/photos/139956476@N02/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1872/42926754520_87c3f9bf32.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/28phQzf)IMG_0643 (https://flic.kr/p/28phQzf) by Lyn Byrd (https://www.flickr.com/photos/139956476@N02/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1859/42926753210_84fe0365ec.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/28phQbE)IMG_0644 (https://flic.kr/p/28phQbE) by Lyn Byrd (https://www.flickr.com/photos/139956476@N02/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1858/42926752130_dba38849f1.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/28phPS3)IMG_0645 (https://flic.kr/p/28phPS3) by Lyn Byrd (https://www.flickr.com/photos/139956476@N02/), on Flickr

[skeeter]

Looking goooooooooooooood!

[Machfab]

What would be a good radio for this model?
I was thinking about the Radiolink AT10?
Any input appreciated
Thanks

[Jared]

Looking good! Love seeing older equipment get built.

[skeeter]

Looking good! Love seeing older equipment get built.

I as well love to see the old stuff being brought to life!:drool::bounce::jaw::):cool:

[Machfab]

VIDEO Diggin in the quary!!!

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4898/44901029055_40de7b2aab_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2bpKvBn)IMG_0703[1] (https://flic.kr/p/2bpKvBn) by Lyn Byrd (https://www.flickr.com/photos/139956476@N02/), on Flickr

[skeeter]

It's not letting me see the video, fo rsome reason. Have you considered a YouTube account for posting videos?

[Machfab]

It's not letting me see the video, fo rsome reason. Have you considered a YouTube account for posting videos?

Try this
https://youtu.be/ZL8PREyACIY

[skeeter]

Try this
https://youtu.be/ZL8PREyACIY

Much gooder, it plays now. That's AWESOME! I took the liberty of sharing the video to PNWSTE facebook group.

[Lil Giants]

You got it working good job :cool:

Swing is pretty slow, what rpm did you use there?

Hydraulic speed seems ok... to help preserve battery time, radio mix valves to cylinder chs so pump motor slows to 20% idle speedwith no stick no movement. With these rather large outrunner brushless motors on the hyd pump, there's certain amount of stall amperage to start them, so always have pump motor turning so you don't cook your esc.

The stick cyl, at the back of cyl, was the pin mount machined into the boom? ...if you could your stick cyl back about an inch, get your stick to fully stretch out.

It's looking good, keep at it.

[Machfab]

You got it working good job :cool:

Swing is pretty slow, what rpm did you use there?

Hydraulic speed seems ok... to help preserve battery time, radio mix valves to cylinder chs so pump motor slows to 20% idle speedwith no stick no movement. With these rather large outrunner brushless motors on the hyd pump, there's certain amount of stall amperage to start them, so always have pump motor turning so you don't cook your esc.

The stick cyl, at the back of cyl, was the pin mount machined into the boom? ...if you could your stick cyl back about an inch, get your stick to fully stretch out.

It's looking good, keep at it.

I will have to learn channel mixing as I have never done it.
I am using a Spektrum 8 channel radio.
Swing motor is a 19 RPM.
Have a 34 RPM i am going to try.
Stick cylinder mount was machined into the boom, I might be able to play with cylinder length a bit.
Thanks for the compliment!

[Lil Giants]

Spektrum is quite easy to program...
1st entry is master - enter #ch on boom valve, stick valve or bucket valve
2nd entry is slave - the #ch your pump esc is connected to
next two entries is + - 100% values and their order will depend how the pump is wired so pump turns correct direction. If it seems pump is turning backwards, you have no pressure, reverse the order of values.

That's it. The other values below can be used for Dual Rates for various styles of digging. I experiment with different values on swing (rudder ch) to either it takes a lot of stick movement for slow swing speed or a flick of the assigned dual rates switch to change swing speed faster with very little stick movement on tx... something for you to tinker with at a later date.

I have my pump on 3pos switch, down is off, middle is about 30% engine speed, up is full speed. You could be using the dial switch on your DX8 Aux3ch. With these large outrunner brushless motors there's a small amount of stall amperage used to start every time & if you allow your pump motor to start/stop continually while using it on "MIX", it will cook your esc... some esc's have built in thermal protection which will shut off esc till it cools enough, then functions again. Many Chinese esc's don't have thermal protection & burn out - maybe even catch fire. So it's good to have your pump motor always turning, it just doesn't have to be full speed all the time.

I think the stroke on your stick cyl is about right, though it doesn't need to curl so far under the boom... I'd cut the rear mount off & make a new one... machine a rectangular box into boom & make a new mount to fit down into it, two 3mm should keep it place with no side load.