MY NEW GRAND HAULER/KENWORTH BUILD

[glorydays24]

I am as excited as a kid on Christmas.:bounce: I received my Grand Hauler yesterday, and I was totally surprised.:jaw: I haven't started on it just yet, I'm deciding where too start...possibly the body work.:rolleyes: Well here is the truck and some items I have got for it so far.

https://s19.postimg.org/3p2s91qpv/100_1085.jpg (https://postimg.cc/image/sv3qfvrzz/)

https://s19.postimg.cc/nwg81cghf/100_1086.jpg (https://postimg.cc/image/dmdt23qlr/)

https://s19.postimg.cc/544cxrcdf/100_1087.jpg (https://postimg.org/image/dz578a15r/)

https://s19.postimg.cc/3p2s913kj/100_1089.jpg (https://postimg.cc/image/41u6f7lu7/)

https://s19.postimg.cc/w1y9zhhkz/100_1090.jpg (https://postimg.cc/image/x48gi10e7/)

I have a lot of plans for this beast, and I have to order quite a few parts if I want this to be a KW.

Thanks for looking, Big John

[DrDiff]

Are you going to get a rolling chassis going while waiting on those parts?

[glorydays24]

Are you going to get a rolling chassis going while waiting on those parts?

DrDiff, I might start it, but I can't 100% complete it. I am looking at a different front cross member to bring the bumper more flush with the grill from Shapeways, and a different steering axle so there won't be any play in the steering. I will do what I can and post pictures.

Thanks for your interest, Big John.

[ittigger]

Very nice! I told you it would get here quick. :)

[glorydays24]

Very nice! I told you it would get here quick. :)

:lol: Yes you did. :lol:

[glorydays24]

Well I got started building today, but I didn't achieve much, but it felt good wrenching. ;)

https://s19.postimg.cc/ffd32qrkj/100_1093.jpg (https://postimg.cc/image/im7mmdc0f/)

https://s19.postimg.cc/91nzzgk3n/100_1094.jpg (https://postimg.cc/image/bvr5cwm9r/)

While I am here, could anyone possibly make the marker lights above the headlights, or maybe know of someone? Thanks!

https://s19.postimg.cc/b68d0jtg3/100_1097.jpg (https://postimg.cc/image/tlstxy7kf/)

Thanks for looking, Big John.

[ittigger]

Nice. :)

[glorydays24]

Nice. :)

Thanks! But I didn't do much today either, I had things to do around the house...you know that thing called life?:lol: But I'm going to try to get some serious progress done tomorrow.

Big John

[frizzen]

For the amber marker over headlights, how would a 3mm led with the base painted silver look? From that angle in pic i can't tell if it needs a rear cover, or if it's in fender.

It's a good start

[glorydays24]

For the amber marker over headlights, how would a 3mm led with the base painted silver look? From that angle in pic i can't tell if it needs a rear cover, or if it's in fender.

It's a good start

The marker lights are mounted in place, and the housing is enclosed on the back side.

Big John

[Hostile]

Im liking the look of this project. What about cutting down a pair of roof lights? Hardest part would be chroming them after the chop.

Edit- these are on garden trucking. Might be more suitable as it can have the led run through the mount. And if you want you could cap the end like i suggested above.
http://www.gardentrucking.com/details.tpl?action=search&cart=152266474918487549&eqskudatarq=130&eqtitledatarq=Blinkers&eqvendordatarq=PMD#.WsIFFNCubqA

[glorydays24]

Im liking the look of this project. What about cutting down a pair of roof lights? Hardest part would be chroming them after the chop.

Edit- these are on garden trucking. Might be more suitable as it can have the led run through the mount. And if you want you could cap the end like i suggested above.
http://www.gardentrucking.com/details.tpl?action=search&cart=152266474918487549&eqskudatarq=130&eqtitledatarq=Blinkers&eqvendordatarq=PMD#.WsIFFNCubqA

Thanks Hostile. I've had these in the past, and they are just to big for what I need. PMD also has a work light, it's the same as the turn signal, but with a chrome back. This is not going to beat me. :lol: Quitting is not an option. ;)

Big John

[ittigger]

Hope you find them!

Where can one find the lights that hang off the left and right of the front bumper?

[glorydays24]

Hope you find them!

Where can one find the lights that hang off the left and right of the front bumper?

If you're talking about the lower corners, the King Hauler turn signal housing will work. PMD also has some.

Big John

[glorydays24]

Finally I am making some progress. I love the tie rod, it gives a tighter turning radius, and the shaft between the rear axles looks beefy. I shouldn't have any problem with that little bad boy.:D;):) Here are some pic's.

https://s19.postimg.cc/niim09d8j/100_1100.jpg (https://postimg.cc/image/5sgxf7znj/)

https://s19.postimg.cc/kbo2gml2r/100_1101.jpg (https://postimg.cc/image/sh64es9bj/)

https://s19.postimg.cc/bgn864r5f/100_1102.jpg (https://postimg.cc/image/77ii3ynvz/)

https://s19.postimg.cc/8zbgyuzj7/100_1103.jpg (https://postimg.cc/image/qclrdpuu7/)

Thanks for looking, Big John

[skeeter]

That tie rod, where did you acquire it? I LOVE it, & want very much to get one like it for my builds.

That jackshaft looks tough. I foresee NO potential problems in that area.

[kaptain Jack]

Doing good, John.

[DrDiff]

I would like to get one as well!

That tie rod, where did you acquire it? I LOVE it, & want very much to get one like it for my builds.

[glorydays24]

That tie rod, where did you acquire it? I LOVE it, & want very much to get one like it for my builds.

That jackshaft looks tough. I foresee NO potential problems in that area.


I found this on ebay, and the seller is rrchen2008. Very light, and strong. Happy building!:cool:;):D

Big John

[glorydays24]

Doing good, John.

Thanks brother! :D

Big John

[glorydays24]

Today I received some vinyl graphics I had made by RC TRUCK GRAPHICS. They are on Facebook, and Andrew did an excellent job. The quality is second to none, the colors are crisp, and he can do just about anything you can come up with. When I get my two tank trailers, I know these will really look the part.

https://s19.postimg.cc/5125fejxv/100_1104.jpg (https://postimg.cc/image/8xfhbe4xb/)

https://s19.postimg.cc/nte0izo1v/100_1105.jpg (https://postimg.cc/image/9zpntxvgf/)

https://s19.postimg.cc/woeutikk3/100_1106.jpg (https://postimg.cc/image/5qkxrrzwv/)

Thanks for looking, Big John.

[skeeter]

Thank-you sir for the info!

[glorydays24]

Thank-you sir for the info!

You're very welcome. ;)

[glorydays24]

Well I got busy today and built the transmission and added my new drive shaft. This thing is very beefy. :eek:

https://s19.postimg.cc/gr7uvlnrn/100_1107.jpg (https://postimg.cc/image/5ev9dtf2n/)

https://s19.postimg.cc/yh9jglr1v/100_1113.jpg (https://postimg.cc/image/yu0xms9bj/)

https://s19.postimg.cc/pz03c9s8z/100_1114.jpg (https://postimg.cc/image/tim122uyn/)

https://s19.postimg.cc/8lpsxgmo3/100_1116.jpg (https://postimg.cc/image/ci34tg7nj/)

https://s19.postimg.cc/8lpsxgudv/100_1117.jpg (https://postimg.cc/image/6h5fwdsr3/)

https://s19.postimg.cc/fc6a6xcer/100_1118.jpg (https://postimg.cc/image/4pch1i49b/)

https://s19.postimg.cc/hgqn806bn/100_1119.jpg (https://postimg.cc/image/uxnlqvgn3/)

https://s19.postimg.cc/vzxs9erqr/100_1120.jpg (https://postimg.cc/image/aqa5ykbfz/)

https://s19.postimg.cc/yh9jgo3xf/100_1121.jpg (https://postimg.cc/image/pm8p65f4v/)

I am going to paint the transmission either caterpillar yellow, or detroit blue/green.

Thanks for looking, Big John.

[ittigger]

Comin' along pretty good.

[glorydays24]

Comin' along pretty good.

Thanks brother! I don't know how much more I can do until I get more parts. I placed an order with Shapeways yesterday for an aerodyne roof for the sleeper. And on Ebay I bought Grand Hauler frame rails, and cross members for the converter dolly. Waiting is the hardest part...:popcorn:;):p

Big John

[frizzen]

I really like the sunoco graphics, those look sharp.

The trucks coming together nicely.

[glorydays24]

I really like the sunoco graphics, those look sharp.

The trucks coming together nicely.

Thanks bro! I wanted something a little different than what is on the market. :D;):)

[Panther F]

My step father owned & operated a few Sunoco service/fuel stations back in the 70's... I even worked there after school.

Very partial to that brand and logo so it will be interesting to see this come to life. ;)

[glorydays24]

My step father owned & operated a few Sunoco service/fuel stations back in the 70's... I even worked there after school.

Very partial to that brand and logo so it will be interesting to see this come to life. ;)

That's pretty cool:cool:! I like fuel tankers, and I figured why not do a sunoco theme in 1/14 scale:D. I have a friend who's dad drove for texaco, but you can buy those vinyl decals all day long:p.

Big John

[Fury Fan]

Does that tierod have any adjustment? I guess if the axle pieces are machined right, a fixed-length tierod should be OK?

For the turnsignal, try looking in the beads and steampunk jewelry at a craft store? There are those tiny pellets for making a fake stained-glass ornament that are pretty small, too.

Also - can you get me measurements on those landing legs, both retracted and extended?

[glorydays24]

Does that tierod have any adjustment? I guess if the axle pieces are machined right, a fixed-length tierod should be OK?

For the turnsignal, try looking in the beads and steampunk jewelry at a craft store? There are those tiny pellets for making a fake stained-glass ornament that are pretty small, too.

Also - can you get me measurements on those landing legs, both retracted and extended?

The tierod is a direct fit, no adjustment at all. Thanks for the tip about the beads, and the legs are the same as the stock ones. If you need the actual lengths, just let me know.

Big John

[glorydays24]

I have been doing some body work the last couple of days:eek::p;). I have to put another thin coat of filler in a few spots, the it will be ready for primer to see all of the imperfections:(. On a lighter note, I got an email from Shapeways telling me my aerodyne roof is on it's way:bounce:. Here is what I've done so far.

https://s19.postimg.cc/vs53fx07n/100_1123.jpg (https://postimg.cc/image/hlpckopcf/)

https://s19.postimg.cc/6m4592r7n/100_1126.jpg (https://postimg.cc/image/tnkqetqv3/)

https://s19.postimg.cc/815pxtfg3/100_1124.jpg (https://postimg.cc/image/li2ogoprj/)

https://s19.postimg.cc/g6nrvy143/100_1127.jpg (https://postimg.cc/image/hlpcko273/)

https://s19.postimg.cc/oox80c52r/100_1128.jpg (https://postimg.cc/image/slajwbq27/)

https://s19.postimg.cc/yyzmzjsdf/100_1129.jpg (https://postimg.cc/image/69cr2wodb/)

https://s19.postimg.cc/upuwxcetf/100_1130.jpg (https://postimg.cc/image/8qoia4xz3/)

I will drill new holes to relocate the roof lamps. Thanks for looking, Big John.

[ramjetexpress]

looking good

[Fury Fan]

Yes, if you could get me actual measurements that would be great. I bought a set of generic ones off ebay, and they seem too big, or my homemade trailer is too short. I'm just needing a good reference point without buying Tamiya legs, in which case I should just buy a whole trailer -- and then the snowball begins...

[ramjetexpress]

Yes, if you could get me actual measurements that would be great. I bought a set of generic ones off ebay, and they seem too big, or my homemade trailer is too short. I'm just needing a good reference point without buying Tamiya legs, in which case I should just buy a whole trailer -- and then the snowball begins...

I've got a couple of sets of those stock Tamiya legs for trailers , I doubt that you live locally but if you do you can have them

[Fury Fan]

I've got a couple of sets of those stock Tamiya legs for trailers , I doubt that you live locally but if you do you can have them
I don't want to hijack his thread any more than I already have - send me a PM and let's see if we can work something out?

[ramjetexpress]

P.M sent and apologies for the hijack

[Fury Fan]

Tried to reply, but system says you can't receive private messages. There's a little clickbox you need to hit in your profile settings.

[ramjetexpress]

there is a check mark there that says I can receive??

[glorydays24]

there is a check mark there that says I can receive??

I tried to send you a pm, but it tells me the same thing. You can't receive pm's. But the measurements are 4-3/16" opened, and 3-3/16" closed. I don't need the support legs, but thank you anyways.

Big John

[glorydays24]

I received my aerodyne roof yesterday, and I didn't post anything because my daughter, her husband and my grandchild came down for the weekend. I wanted too know if the gap between the cab and sleeper roof's is to big? I'm not really sure, so if you think it is please let me know. Here are a few picture's.

https://s19.postimg.cc/pudfacolf/100_1131.jpg (https://postimg.cc/image/pudfacolb/)

https://s19.postimg.cc/5a8lbwqur/100_1132.jpg (https://postimg.cc/image/hc3z62033/)

https://s19.postimg.cc/cq7uxoz4j/100_1133.jpg (https://postimg.cc/image/4kpszjavj/)

Thanks for looking, Big John.

[Claus]

Honestly I think the gap is a little high but I would not worry about it. When you paint the truck, add the lights, air horns, stacks and mirrors it will all help hide that gap. If you do some shaving, keep the rivet line on the sleeper and work on the roof section.

here are a few 1:1 examples, it's hard to find a good top view.

https://i.wheelsage.org/pictures/k/kenworth/w900_aerodyne/kenworth_w900_aerodyne.jpeg
http://www.tenfourmagazine.com/misc/2010/NovTroys1.jpg
http://www.kenworth.com/media/40376/90thAnniversary_billboard_1976.jpg
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KmNcqc_xDLM/UAcLeTakjyI/AAAAAAAABWE/4YupdywEpTs/s1600/IMG_3161+Netti.jpg
http://forums.aths.org/InstantForum2010/Uploads/Images/74ba8d30-428f-4b9a-89b7-b46f.jpg
https://images.truckpartsinventory.com/parts/269/1997-Kenworth-Other-Sleepers-F6NzxLzIeIE4_f.jpg

[glorydays24]

Thanks for the pic's Claus. :D I might leave it, not sure yet. ;) What to do, what to do...:rolleyes::p:)

Big John

[frizzen]

Testing.

https://s19.postimg.org/3p2s91qpv/100_1085.jpg
Becomes
https://s19.postimg.cc/3p2s91qpv/100_1085.jpg

I am as excited as a kid on Christmas...

https://s19.postimg.cc/nwg81cghf/100_1086.jpg

I have a lot of plans for this beast, and I have to order quite a few parts if I want this to be a KW.

Thanks for looking, Big John

[jack van]

hi big john truck is looking good i have a question have you looked into the all metal transmission at all

[glorydays24]

hi big john truck is looking good i have a question have you looked into the all metal transmission at all

Thanks brother!:) If you are talking about the all metal gears, I had considered it. But I don't think I will due to the fact these transmissions hold up very well.;) And if you are talking about the aluminum housing I never have thought I needed it. Now if I start stripping the plastic gears,:eek: I probably would go all metal gears.

Big John

[glorydays24]

I received a little something in the mail today. It's the Tamiya metal air horns, and they are saaaweeet! Here is a couple of pic's.

https://s19.postimg.cc/8zj070z3n/100_1136.jpg (https://postimg.cc/image/mt7cw2rov/)

https://s19.postimg.cc/65futmexv/100_1139.jpg (https://postimg.cc/image/7khficg0v/)

Thanks for looking, Big John.

[ittigger]

Nice!

[Claus]

I have those air horns on my truck, they are very nice indeed.:)

[lenny]

Can the house come down at all? Bottom of cab and bottom of house should line straight across, and crown tight to cab roof. The time is now !!

[glorydays24]

Nice!

I have those air horns on my truck, they are very nice indeed.:)

Thanks guy's. :)

Big John

[glorydays24]

Can the house come down at all? Bottom of cab and bottom of house should line straight across, and crown tight to cab roof. The time is now !!

Yeah, I know the cab and sleeper bottoms should be level with each other. The only way to fix the problem (and easiest) would be to add a strip of styryne to the bottom of the sleeper. But I am planning on having led's running along the bottom of both. Hopefully when I have everything put on, I can hide the mismatch. As far as the roof, I did see a picture of an actual truck with the roof having a bigger gap, so I think I will leave it the way it is.

Big John

[HAZMAN]

Yeah, I know the cab and sleeper bottoms should be level with each other. The only way to fix the problem (and easiest) would be to add a strip of styryne to the bottom of the sleeper. But I am planning on having led's running along the bottom of both. Hopefully when I have everything put on, I can hide the mismatch. As far as the roof, I did see a picture of an actual truck with the roof having a bigger gap, so I think I will leave it the way it is.

Big John

I had the same issue with my Aeordyne build and I decided to go the 85 w900 look by raising the roof of the cab by inserting a wedge creating a 2mm gap between the cab and lip of the roof. I also lengthened the cab 4mm behind the doors. Looks like your going for the 76 look then you could also separate the cab from the sleeper and raise the cab up 3mm. If do this then you'll need to to add washers under the cab mount to achieve the new height. I did the cab separation and washer with my build as I wanted it to sit a mm or 2 higher than my other King Hauler. As for the bottoms matching up , cut and add 2 or 3mm strips of styrene to lineup the cab and sleeper.

[glorydays24]

I had the same issue with my Aeordyne build and I decided to go the 85 w900 look by raising the roof of the cab by inserting a wedge creating a 2mm gap between the cab and lip of the roof. I also lengthened the cab 4mm behind the doors. Looks like your going for the 76 look then you could also separate the cab from the sleeper and raise the cab up 3mm. If do this then you'll need to to add washers under the cab mount to achieve the new height. I did the cab separation and washer with my build as I wanted it to sit a mm or 2 higher than my other King Hauler. As for the bottoms matching up , cut and add 2 or 3mm strips of styrene to lineup the cab and sleeper.

Thanks for the info brother! If I was to cut the sleeper from the cab and raise the cab with washers, wouldn't that make the gap between the grill and front bumper be to much? If you have a thread on your idea, please let me know so I can see what it look's like.

Big John

[HAZMAN]

No thread but a lot of pictures. I actually made a new bumper mounting plate and raised the bumper 3mm. I'll upload the build picks to my post image page and send you the link.

[glorydays24]

No thread but a lot of pictures. I actually made a new bumper mounting plate and raised the bumper 3mm. I'll upload the build picks to my post image page and send you the link.

:bounce:

[HAZMAN]

https://postimg.cc/gallery/jzniiriy/

OK, I included a link with build pics of my Aerodyne. I checked the gaps on my Aerodyne with one screw spacer under each cab mount and I'm seeing about a 1 mm gap between the bumper and the fender, and a 2mm gap from the top of the cab to the aerodyne cap. There's a pic of the front bumpers of the 85 KW and of my latest project the W900 Studio Sleeper with a 4mm spacer lift. I wanted body flaring under the cab and sleeper for lights but covered them with chrome step trim. I added flaring to the front lip of the fender to close the bumper gap and purposely left the space under the grille open. if separating the Cab and sleeper you can also elongate the bumper mounting holes to raise it up, which I may do. This only works if using a aluminum bumper as the stock plastic bumper has the molded slot for the bumper mount.

[glorydays24]

https://postimg.cc/gallery/jzniiriy/

OK, I included a link with build pics of my Aerodyne. I checked the gaps on my Aerodyne with one screw spacer under each cab mount and I'm seeing about a 1 mm gap between the bumper and the fender, and a 2mm gap from the top of the cab to the aerodyne cap. There's a pic of the front bumpers of the 85 KW and of my latest project the W900 Studio Sleeper with a 4mm spacer lift. I wanted body flaring under the cab and sleeper for lights but covered them with chrome step trim. I added flaring to the front lip of the fender to close the bumper gap and purposely left the space under the grille open. if separating the Cab and sleeper you can also elongate the bumper mounting holes to raise it up, which I may do. This only works if using a aluminum bumper as the stock plastic bumper has the molded slot for the bumper mount.

Thanks brother, this helps a lot!

Big John

[HAZMAN]

No problem Brother, that's what we're here for.

[DrDiff]

Hey glorydays24, How is the build coming along?

[glorydays24]

Hey glorydays24, How is the build coming along?

Hi Dean. The build has been put on hold temporarily, still getting parts for the truck. I will be updating soon though. ;) Thanks for asking.

Big John