Kenworth T880-Aluminum cab

[RCP57]

As many of you know my KH is the only model in my fleet besides the Bruder Mack conversion that has a plastic body(cab). I have wanted to change it since the day I bought it but the timing hasn't been right and I couldn't decide what to build anyway. I struggled with the idea of old vs new for the body but I have decided that new is more challenging. I wanted to do a Kenworth T880 a while ago to test my patience but someone else beat me to the punch and I got busy building my Hayes. The Hayes is now close to being finished so today I got to work on this. I started out this morning making some sketches(tracing) of the cab and then started to transfer the templates onto the metal. Once that was finished the real work began....

Here's what I got accomplished today....
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3879_zps3f7e3192.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3879_zps3f7e3192.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3880_zpsc4b7faf5.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3880_zpsc4b7faf5.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3881_zps061f85ba.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3881_zps061f85ba.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3882_zps9f902b1a.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3882_zps9f902b1a.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3883_zps2c6920e0.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3883_zps2c6920e0.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3884_zpsf16e941c.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3884_zpsf16e941c.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3885_zpsd7c2ccf2.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3885_zpsd7c2ccf2.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3886_zps69969fdf.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3886_zps69969fdf.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3887_zps38ce635e.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3887_zps38ce635e.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3888_zpsff06ba21.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3888_zpsff06ba21.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3889_zpsb7f41e6d.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3889_zpsb7f41e6d.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3890_zps1bbe9d57.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3890_zps1bbe9d57.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3891_zps0a1f650c.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3891_zps0a1f650c.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3892_zps7e2691fe.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3892_zps7e2691fe.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3894_zpsa5f66ea8.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3894_zpsa5f66ea8.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3895_zps74edc03c.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3895_zps74edc03c.jpg.html)

Thanks for looking!

[ihbuilder]

oh boy there goes the N'hood :jaw:

[Dieselchopper]

Looking great!!

[longhairRandy]

This is going to be a great build.

[Brian in PA]

Reg that is just insane. Your metal skills are off the charts!

[glorydays24]

Excellent start.:bounce::bounce::bounce: Your skills are insane.:jaw::jaw: Keep the pic's coming, I would love to see more.:D:cool:;)

Big John

[tc1cat]

:eek::eek: WOW!!! Welding that thin of metal is unreal!! What a start to an already great build:jaw:

[Steve1503]

Looking good!

[spudd]

very impressive!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Supermario]

Reg is like a musician with perfect pitch. Anything he creates is a masterpiece! ;):D

So should be done in a few days eh Reg? :lol:
Can't wait to see more:):bounce:

Mario

[TRUCKMAKER]

Your totally un-stoppable Reg, watching the progress as always!:bounce::bounce:

[RCP57]

Thanks for all the positive comments! I would like to take this opportunity to blame you all for my lack of a social life and constant symptoms of "RC-itis":p.

In my typical fashion, this thing is coming along quickly or at least it would seem. All tolled I have about 12 hours in this already but most of the sheet metal work is finished short of trimming the fenders and cutting out the lights and grills. Now that I have it this far along I need to turn my attention back to the half round trailer I am building before Keith flies to Canada and Kicks my A$$.:cop::p

Anyway, here is today's update. I was thinking the cab was going to be a little wide but once the fenders were built, welded on and trimmed everthing looks pretty close. I still need to open up the wheel wells but I am pretty impressed with how it is all fitting together so far.

http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3897_zps82cf36a3.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3897_zps82cf36a3.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3898_zps733df68b.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3898_zps733df68b.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3899_zps27fb1263.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3899_zps27fb1263.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3900_zps318d028c.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3900_zps318d028c.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3901_zpsabfddc05.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3901_zpsabfddc05.jpg.html)

Thanks for following along!

[bigford]

looks just like the t680's we have at work

[RCP57]

I decided that I needed to cut out the wheel wells and headlights before I put it aside:D.

It turns out that a CD was the perfect size to mark the opening. The KH cab floor is holding it up higher than it should be but it lines up really well with the factory steps vs axle position. When I build the bumper I will just have to mount it out further from the frame rails....or build another truck.:cool:

http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3902_zps4dade03e.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3902_zps4dade03e.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3903_zpsc94cb336.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3903_zpsc94cb336.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3904_zps6577597c.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3904_zps6577597c.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3905_zps1bbf409b.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3905_zps1bbf409b.jpg.html)

[ihbuilder]

:eek::jaw::eek::jaw: you about fixed it now I just put the empty argon bottles in the truck :p:p:p:p:p

[RCP57]

:eek::jaw::eek::jaw: you about fixed it now I just put the empty argon bottles in the truck :p:p:p:p:p

Prompting you do pick up the TIG torch again am I Steve?:cool:

[heavy_duty]

Great job,man you got some serious metal fab skills.looks awesome.

Ed

[Trucker_Jo]

Very cool build Reg! :D

[RCP57]

OK, last update for today I promise.

Looking at pictures I noticed that there should be a slight flair to the fenders so a little dolly work was in order. It's fairly subtle but I think it will be more prominent once painted. While I was at it, I added some more weld to the headlight area so that I could grind the corners round. After that I cut out the breather holes in each side of the hood.

I think it's finally starting to look like a T880

http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3907_zps7564d139.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3907_zps7564d139.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3908_zpsa138d5ed.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3908_zpsa138d5ed.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3909_zpsd850be77.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3909_zpsd850be77.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3910_zps9630a2be.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3910_zps9630a2be.jpg.html)

Reg

[ihbuilder]

Prompting you do pick up the TIG torch again am I Steve?:cool:

yea I am :rolleyes: well I have to finish the blade yet on the compactor . I ran out in april and still have yet to get to the supply house and get more :rolleyes:

[robcakes]

great work reg , cannot wait to see more.....

[bruce]

That cab is awsome. You sir have some nice skills

[BERNA]

Hi friend I love your work, you really have very good hands to make this work, I congratulate

[RCP57]

Thank you all very much!

Here's a small update. I spent a few hours machining the front grill. Not having CNC really sucks with this kinda stuff. I said the F word really F ing loud when the grill caught on the buffing wheel and flew across my shop, bouncing off the shelving unit that stores my models and coming to a rest under my bandsaw:mad::mad:! I thought for sure it would be destroyed yet amazingly enough it was unharmed:eek:. What a relief! I then said some more F words surrounded by things like, _____ amazing, I can't ____ believe it isn't ____ and so on. All of this while standing alone in my shop... I think I'm losing it!:bounce::bounce:

http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3911_zps58f5cd03.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3911_zps58f5cd03.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3912_zps83cfc32d.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3912_zps83cfc32d.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3913_zps6bbc6e49.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3913_zps6bbc6e49.jpg.html)

[Lil Giants]

So wifey must be at work today or she might have appeared at the doorway yelling "WT_____ is wrong with you?" :D :lol:

[RCP57]

So wifey must be at work today or she might have appeared at the doorway yelling "WT_____ is wrong with you?" :D :lol:

Hahaha! You got it!

[Tamiya Cowboy]

Truly amazing work as always I am stunned by your ability

[ihbuilder]

"Here's a small update. I spent a few hours machining the front grill. Not having CNC really sucks with this kinda stuff. I said the F word really F ing loud when the grill caught on the buffing wheel and flew across my shop, bouncing off the shelving unit that stores my models and coming to a rest under my bandsaw! I thought for sure it would be destroyed yet amazingly enough it was unharmed. What a relief! I then said some more F words surrounded by things like, _____ amazing, I can't ____ believe it isn't ____ and so on. All of this while standing alone in my shop... I think I'm losing it!"


:D:lol:I guess I'm not alone :lol: you be surprised the abuse a good grade of aluminum can take . I gotta say this , unfortunately my kids know every cuss werd in the book :o ( thats how I learned them ) .

Great job on the grill . watch these guys here :rolleyes: or you'll be needin the CNC

[RCP57]

Thanks for the compliment and no you aren't alone Steve! It wouldn't have been the first time that I had a few solid hours into something only to watch it be destroyed by one wrong move. Years ago I would get mad and smash stuff but I soon realized that it is easier(and cheaper) to put it down and walk away than smash it and start all over. As it turns out, sometimes my mistakes can be fixed after taking a second look with a cooler head:rolleyes:.

[ihbuilder]

Thanks for the compliment and no you aren't alone Steve! It wouldn't have been the first time that I had a few solid hours into something only to watch it be destroyed by one wrong move. Years ago I would get mad and smash stuff but I soon realized that it is easier(and cheaper) to put it down and walk away than smash it and start all over. As it turns out, sometimes my mistakes can be fixed after taking a second look with a cooler head:rolleyes:.

I've come a long way but still got the (me smash in me yet ) like today , just about destroyed the shop . :eek: everything just came to a head at once , Started with a boring bar and insert order that was delayed delivery for a week do to a tec glitch on his end . Ok that stuff showed up mon. , Life is good right ?? get that op finished std blanks ready for holes now ss blanks need a different bar to finish :rolleyes: . OK take it in the butt and order fro MSC cool in stock I'll get fri . NOT:mad::mad::mad: go check order shipped from mafr. will take over week :mad::mad::mad::mad: WTF it said in stock now says this after I order . hen today . software glitch I didn't catch before hitting green blinky button ------- I needed that to finish an order this week !!!!!!!!!!!!! 3 days to get and have order coming in on mon from same place :( oh well pay more shipping :(

[Izzy]

Steve - more and more catalog companies are stating in stock but what it actually means is direct ship from manufacturer. Acme taps are this way - McMaster had to have tap built even though it said "in stock"

Chin up old man - business is changing around here .....not necessarily for the better though.

[ihbuilder]

Steve - more and more catalog companies are stating in stock but what it actually means is direct ship from manufacturer. Acme taps are this way - McMaster had to have tap built even though it said "in stock"

Chin up old man - business is changing around here .....not necessarily for the better though.

well todays issues what I get for werkin straight through the night :rolleyes: I only use MSC if I have to any more like a friday night emergency call in before 4 and pick up at the dock 30min away. I like my lil guys , they're nice on the pocket and good stuff just takes week max to get .

[toniolillo]

Great job, it´is very interesting project

[JAMMER]

Reg very nice job on the cab and your welds are looking real good considering the light metal. Ed

[Izzy]

Reg - I like your aluminum skills - I've heard that welding thin sections are terrifically difficult - great work!

[RCP57]

Sorry to hear about all your issues Steve. Somedays it seems like if it can, it will.

Thanks Ed, Izzy. Some welds are fairly easy and others are a pain. Fitment of parts makes a huge difference. Sometimes I just have to blob on extra and grind it off. Lol

[dabears]

Outstanding work!!! When your done with it ill take it in red... HAHA absolutely amazing aluminum skills!!! Cant wait to see what you do next on it

[RCP57]

Haha, be careful what you wish for... If it turns out well enough I may put it up for sale.

[chaseracer]

Looks amazing reg , you amaze me every time you build .. Look forward to seeing more

[tc1cat]

Not having CNC machines can be a blessing at times. 8 hrs of pushing a button can make for a very BORING night:eek: I still enjoy making things where I control everything. Manual machines are nice if you have a DRO on them. Reading dials gets to be as big pain as CNC after awhile.:rolleyes::rolleyes: Grill looks great!!

[Acadieman]

Looks great as usual! :cool: You make it look so easy!

[dabears]

Haha, be careful what you wish for... If it turns out well enough I may put it up for sale.

It that a promise?? LOL I got 1st dibs!:jaw:

[RCP57]

Looks amazing reg , you amaze me every time you build .. Look forward to seeing more

Thanks Jason!

Not having CNC machines can be a blessing at times. 8 hrs of pushing a button can make for a very BORING night:eek: I still enjoy making things where I control everything. Manual machines are nice if you have a DRO on them. Reading dials gets to be as big pain as CNC after awhile.:rolleyes::rolleyes: Grill looks great!!

Yes my father inlaw says the same thing. When I talked with him about converting my mill to cnc he said to buy a second mill so that I still had a manual machine. The DRO on my machine does make a huge difference! It makes life much easier.

Looks great as usual! :cool: You make it look so easy!

Thank you but its not that easy for me. I'm just determined to succeed!

It that a promise?? LOL I got 1st dibs!:jaw:

It's entirely possible. Money does funny things to all of us! No idea what it would be worth though.

Reg

[RCP57]

I haven't looked at this in almost three weeks but I spent about an hour on it this evening and made some changes. I added some material back into the front of the wheel arch so that the whole thing could be moved back. This gets the cab forward more and the wheel arch closer to where it should be. I also rolled a piece of 3/8" round bar in my slip roll and split it down the center for the fender flares. Once everything was fitting, I welded it into place on each fender. I'm still not satisfied with how the fenders are looking but at least it's a step in the right direction. In the pictures the cab is sitting very high because of the KH cab mount sitting in the way. Hopefully when all is said and done it will sit about 1/2" lower.

http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3967_zps7eb5d44c.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3967_zps7eb5d44c.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3968_zps12b2c519.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3968_zps12b2c519.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3969_zps575ffe5e.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3969_zps575ffe5e.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3970_zps87ff1a05.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_3970_zps87ff1a05.jpg.html)

Reg

[FabOne]

AWESOME!!! Keep posting. I like!!

[glorydays24]

You are your worst critic.:rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes: I think the fenders are turning out really nice buddy.:):D:cool:

Big John

[Kaf343]

Reg, I've been in the sheet metal business for 25 years and have got to say, you are a master of fab work. Looking great.

[TRUCKMAKER]

The fenders are looking real good. I like the cab sitting up higher for dumps and heavy hauls, kinda goes with the heavier suspensions. :cool:

[RCP57]

AWESOME!!! Keep posting. I like!!

Thank you!

You are your worst critic.:rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes: I think the fenders are turning out really nice buddy.:):D:cool:

Big John

I know I am John. There just always seems to be a detail/shape that I know I could have done better on. If I had your painting skills I would feel a lot better about how this will look in the end.

Reg, I've been in the sheet metal business for 25 years and have got to say, you are a master of fab work. Looking great.

Wow! Thanks Keith, that's a really nice thing to say! I have a lot to learn yet about metal fab but that's part of the enjoyment for me. There are a lot more wasted parts on the floor from trying to build this cab compared to the HD or KW850. I guess there is a reason that the 1:1 uses fiberglass for the fenders and hood and not metal.

Reg

[Exclusive RC]

**** reg this thing is gorgeous, it takes a lot to impress me and dude im impressed. There is really nothing else to say.... all this needs as an "Exclusive" paint job and your set ;) great job buddy, keep it up!

[tc1cat]

Fenders look GREAT!! You are just like most of us on the forum. You are your own worst critic. Not really satisfied with anything until it is perfect in your mind. Can't wait to see it finished and painted.

[RCP57]

**** reg this thing is gorgeous, it takes a lot to impress me and dude im impressed. There is really nothing else to say.... all this needs as an "Exclusive" paint job and your set ;) great job buddy, keep it up!


Well thanks very much! It is not where I want it to be just yet but I will get it eventually. I agree that one of your paint jobs would look really good on it. Painting is definitely not my forte!

Fenders look GREAT!! You are just like most of us on the forum. You are your own worst critic. Not really satisfied with anything until it is perfect in your mind. Can't wait to see it finished and painted.

That's what drives all of us to do better isn't it? I know that I cannot make this exactly to scale but there are a few tweaks left to improve the realism. I find it hard to see the shapes and curves when it is shiny so I think I will bead blast it soon. A consistent dull finish should make it easier to see imperfections...At least I hope!lol

[RCP57]

Not really much of a noticeable update but I did a little massaging here and there and took a few pics of the cab sitting on bare rails. I have my brain fixated on two different ideas for this truck so I need to make a choice very soon....

http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4007_zpsc7e688c6.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4007_zpsc7e688c6.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4008_zpsf2774871.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4008_zpsf2774871.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4009_zps7234a99b.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4009_zps7234a99b.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4011_zps40cd5d29.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4011_zps40cd5d29.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4012_zps47d5f00f.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4012_zps47d5f00f.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4013_zps9f4d4159.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4013_zps9f4d4159.jpg.html)

Thanks for looking!

[Grainfarmer]

Very good job...you "got talent" ;)

[#Hauler]

WOW!!!

[Ken Orme]

Looking very professiomal. I like it.

Ken O

[flatdeck]

I have no words other than AMAZING...



Wayne

[MoRockN]

Reg , YOU..............ARE................KILLING MEEEEE.............WOW brother you're taking this to the next level. When do they start to ship?? :D

[RCP57]

Thanks a bunch guys. Over the next few months I plan to turn this into a complete "one off" truck from top to bottom. I have my fingers crossed that it turns out well and that someone will like it enough to give it a good home when it's finished.

I got back into the shop today and had my fingers on a lot of different things. I made sure that this got a little attention as well although I didn't get a lot done. Basically, I spent most of the time carefully filing the fenders and hood but I also started to make the visor.

Can anyone spot the body filler?

http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4022_zpse69ea1ba.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4022_zpse69ea1ba.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4023_zpsf0876ce9.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4023_zpsf0876ce9.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4024_zps9964a85f.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4024_zps9964a85f.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4025_zpsa347b1fd.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4025_zpsa347b1fd.jpg.html)

Thanks for looking!

[Supermario]

If I spot the body filler.......Is it mine! :D:bounce:

Wicked Reg . Simply wicked :cool:

Mario

[RCP57]

I guess I kinda am using body filler it's just aluminum...:rolleyes:

Today was kind of a s*** show when it came to this. I started off by adding the lower muck catchers on the front of each fender. This went fine and with a little extra rod melted on I was able to clean up some body lines in the same area. I then went to my parents to use my Dads bead blaster. That went great too and I was happy to see the body all in one color. I meant to put it down and get on with some chores outside but I just couldn't stop(no lunch, no drinking, no pee breaks). I decided that the next step should be the bumper so I got busy cutting things and bending it to shape. This where the wheels started to fall off... Once the bumper was bent to shape I discovered that the right fender was almost 1/8" ahead of the left. This obviously causes major fitment issues with the bumper especially with the new fender extensions. After a few tweaks with no success I found out that the fender does come off just like on the real truck! The only problem was that I had to use a grinder to get it off and a TIG welder to put it back on!:mad: Anyway after a nearly 3 hour battle things were back together and fitting pretty close so I put the bumper in the mill and milled out the slots and so on. Now I need to bead blast the body again and then I can do some more filing.:(

That was a lot of rambling, sorry... Here's the pictures
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4030_zps3c5d65ce.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4030_zps3c5d65ce.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4031_zpsf44c0a9b.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4031_zpsf44c0a9b.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4032_zpsa700ea13.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4032_zpsa700ea13.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4033_zps572a2463.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4033_zps572a2463.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4034_zpsda8dfe2b.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4034_zpsda8dfe2b.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4040_zpsd1fa51da.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4040_zpsd1fa51da.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4042_zpsd5430c71.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4042_zpsd5430c71.jpg.html)

Thanks for listening and looking.lol

[RCP57]

I contemplated buying 30" rails but I wanted to see if I could make my own so I gave it a shot. It took me about an hour to make them but I think they turned out well and I saved myself some money.

http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4092_zps4ac74a14.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4092_zps4ac74a14.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4093_zps07d8d999.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4093_zps07d8d999.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4094_zpse390e67b.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4094_zpse390e67b.jpg.html)

[flatdeck]

What is your time worth Reg.. Hope you can cut the time down some....LOL


Wayne

[RCP57]

What is your time worth Reg.. Hope you can cut the time down some....LOL


Wayne

Well I guess my time isn't worth much Wayne if I base it off of what I make per hour building dump boxes and so on for other people. A new set of blank rails from RC4WD sell for $25US plus shipping so the better part of $50CAD delivered to the post office. Then I have to drive there and pick it up. I don't make anywhere near half of that building stuff for other people after expenses so considering this is for me, I think it was well worth it!:;)

[flatdeck]

OK very good... Nice to have the equipment to do it... build is great Reg....


Wayne

[RCP57]

Haha thanks Wayne. I always have more time than money and as you said the equipment to make it happen even if it does take too long(and I agree, it did take too long).

[spudd]

great work. You have put a lot of time into it and it shows. Very nice

[RCP57]

Well, it's been a couple of months since I have done anything other than pile stuff on top of this. A while back I received a bunch of goodies from a guy that's addicted to orange and every now and then I remember that they are there and what my intentions were for them.lol I have so many different things going at the same time right now that I need to get my head checked but I decided to pull this out again for a couple hours anyway and mount the bumper. In a way by doing this I am consolidating the parts so it's a good thing right?:rolleyes: I made up an aluminum cross member/mount and drilled the bumper from behind so that there are no bolts showing. I guess the next things will be mounting the cab and the third axle although it may be a while before that happens.

http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4471_zpsd5cc1fed.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4471_zpsd5cc1fed.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4472_zps9390069e.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4472_zps9390069e.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4473_zpsa0f27e68.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4473_zpsa0f27e68.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4474_zps310cf538.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4474_zps310cf538.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4475_zps800a3ee2.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4475_zps800a3ee2.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4476_zps1fd08d3a.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4476_zps1fd08d3a.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4477_zpsf2c12fcb.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4477_zpsf2c12fcb.jpg.html)

[Sphyron]

Very Good Man, very good!!!

:jaw::jaw::jaw:

[flatdeck]

Very nice Reg.

[thebigo]

Reg, I am amazed at the metal work on this truck, really like everything about your build!!

[JAMMER]

Looks real good Reg are you going to make the frame rails for the dump trailer also? Ed

[RCP57]

Thanks a lot guys. I'm thinking about making my own air ride for the rear but we'll see. I don't like the look of the 3rd axle hanging on half of a stock Tamiya setup.

What dump trailer are you referring to Ed?

[flatdeck]

Re: 3 axle.... I hope you come up with a design that is good looking and easy to install and will work with a servo....



Wayne

[RCP57]

We'll have to see. I've never tried to make it before so my expectations aren't that high. I just want it to work properly and have articulation.

[JAMMER]

One of your pictures looked like you started a trailer. Ed

[RCP57]

Oh, those are modified Tamiya flat deck trailers Ed. I'm using them as the base for the end dumps I've been working on.

[jffhrvstr]

Your truck is amazing!! I can't believe how good you are with building stuff out of aluminum! Very impressive build, I can't wait to see more pictures!!!

[RCP57]

Your truck is amazing!! I can't believe how good you are with building stuff out of aluminum! Very impressive build, I can't wait to see more pictures!!!

Thank you! Hopefully I will have some updates again soon.

[KWT880wayne]

I currently drive a 2015 KW T880 dump truck and come across your pictures while I was online. What would it take to have a complete cab and all built or even a complete truck? That's if your even considering building these for people. And if so what about the dump boxes? I would like to have a replica of my current work truck built. I could even supply all kinds of pictures.

This truck your building looks fantastic!

Wayne

[heavy_duty]

That truck looks incredible. It looks rugged and ready for whatever you can throw at it.Keep it going and I cant wait to see more.

ED

[RCP57]

I currently drive a 2015 KW T880 dump truck and come across your pictures while I was online. What would it take to have a complete cab and all built or even a complete truck? That's if your even considering building these for people. And if so what about the dump boxes? I would like to have a replica of my current work truck built. I could even supply all kinds of pictures.

This truck your building looks fantastic!

Wayne

Well I certainly could use some more pictures!lol Especially of the fenders. I have only seen one of these trucks locally but I've never got a good look at it. It hauls fuel around to gas stations at night and is locked in a compound during the day. It is also nearly a two hour drive from my house so seeing it up close in person hasn't been an option. I wish that it was because I really need to see it up close with my own eyes in order to fix all the screw ups on my cab. The truth is I don't really know if I am close or way off. It is hard to tell from internet photos. I don't think I would ever try to produce anything like this as a regular sales item. For one, I don't think it is good enough(yet) and the amount of hours in it already would make it too costly(I think). If I get this one right and someone wanted it, I would probably sell it though.

I appreciate the kind words also Wayne and would like to see pictures of your truck.

That truck looks incredible. It looks rugged and ready for whatever you can throw at it.Keep it going and I cant wait to see more.

ED

Well thanks to reading both of your comments, I put this back on the bench this afternoon after I finished a customer project. I didn't get a lot done but I did manage to weld in a cab mount right behind the grill and get started on the flatdeck. My original plan was to make this a tri-drive but the more I look at it the less I like that idea. What do all of you think? I guess It's appearance will change a little once I make tanks and other details but I think the tri axle makes it look short even though it isn't.

Anyway, let me know your thoughts...

http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4587_zpsc4608d2f.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4587_zpsc4608d2f.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4588_zps7b4b2c04.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4588_zps7b4b2c04.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4589_zpse9047577.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4589_zpse9047577.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4590_zpsc5534cfc.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4590_zpsc5534cfc.jpg.html)
http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b588/RCP57/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4591_zpsb6dfb6e1.jpg (http://s1293.photobucket.com/user/RCP57/media/Kenworth%20T880/IMG_4591_zpsb6dfb6e1.jpg.html)

Thanks for looking!

[TRUCKMAKER]

Definently looks better as a tri-drive. But as you said fuel tanks and battery box or tool boxes might change that. It just looks like if you put any weight on a similar 1:1 you'd over load the front axle in a heart beat.

[JAMMER]

Hi Reg that turned out real nice. You should have made a wood mold and you could have turned the cab out real quick. I had a friend that hit the corner of his bunk and he made a wood mold from the other side and when he banged it out you never knew anything happened.Ed

[Izzy]

Rcp57 - wow you have come a long way (I've been away from the board alot lately)
there are several versions of this nose out there. This edgy rugged look that we like is hard to find. Ones with softer lines and more rounded head lights are more popular. And the Internet adds were mostly computer generated. So it's really difficult to say the least.

Either way your cab looks fantastic. You captured the essence of that rugged look.

For a tanker tri-drive
for a flat bed standard is my 2 cents

But do what ya like. If she runs short hauls then simple step tanks are most likely on 1:1s I would think.

BTW still jealous of your aluminum skills.....

[RCTech9]

I vote Tri-Drive!

[petermoblin]

Tandem with a tag axle would really look sharp and be more realistic. The truck is really coming along nicely.

[cabs]

I vote for a pusher

[Trucker_Jo]

I vote...




https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfp1/v/t1.0-9/10522440_684728161644131_7739387992534542469_n.jpg ?oh=04c283f4593c9c7d5fb385d9f07701bd&oe=553C3F2F&__gda__=1430277030_a137258cd7fca402351368cddc47764 9

:D

[RCP57]

Thanks for all the opinions guys. I'm still undecided but I do have just enough alloy wheels for 3 drive axles and the steer axle so I'm leaning toward tri-drive.

Izzy, you are right. There just aren't many of these trucks around. I'm not sure if it is the economy and no one is buying new trucks or if Kenworth is losing popularity(at least in this area)? The only new trucks I see here are Western Star. Lots of new WS tri-drive logging trucks and a few dump trucks around here lately but not much else. I don't know whether people around here like the Western Star more or if their pricing/service is better than the other brands. I appreciate the compliment also Izzy. Thank you:).

[speedy8305]

Well RCP it depends where you are @ the reason I say that is because Western Star is manufactured in Canada if i'm not mistaken they aren't cheap trucks however it is said that the best steel comes out of Canada and since they are made from Canadian steel they are very rugged trucks

[RCP57]

I am sure the Canadian made thing has something to do with it. There may even be some government incentives or something for buying a Canadian product and "stimulating" our economy. In my opinion they are nice looking trucks but that's about as much as I know about them.lol There are several dealers on the Island here too which I'm sure makes a difference as well.

[Nhrafan]

Reg tri-drive logger would be pretty sweet !!!!!

[bigpipespete]

Western Star hasnt made a truck here in Canada in over a decade if im not mistaken. I toured the Kelowna plant almost 20 years ago and i think it moved within 5 or so years after.

[RCP57]

According to Winky they moved in 02 to Portland Oregon. I didn't know that...not that I know much about trucks at all really...Thanks for pointing that out Mike. Now we can get back to this being a KW thread!lol

[speedy8305]

Yea back to the KW post lol