Model Boat Mayhem

Mess Deck: General Section => Other Hobbies and Interests => Topic started by: U-33 on June 12, 2013, 01:16:30 pm

Title: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on June 12, 2013, 01:16:30 pm
Operation "High Hopes" has commenced...to convert my Traxxas funny car into a turbine powered tractor puller. New rear wheels/tyres fitted, funny car body and mounts removed, and the anti wheelie bar removed so far.

Next job is to build the dummy turbine engines to cover the radio gear, then it's onto the body work.


Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: unbuiltnautilus on June 12, 2013, 02:12:21 pm


Next job is to build the dummy turbine engines to cover the radio gear, then it's onto the body work.



Wheres your sense of adventure, you can get real turbine engines!

Looking forward to this one :-))
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: Martin (Admin) on June 12, 2013, 02:18:22 pm

"dummy turbine engines"..... shame   {:-{
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on June 12, 2013, 02:45:29 pm
It's got a huge brushless motor as standard! Not too sure about real working turbines though, could be frightening!
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: unbuiltnautilus on June 12, 2013, 05:15:26 pm
Huge brushless motors are for wimps :}
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: GAZOU on June 12, 2013, 05:29:01 pm
U-33 you are a small player!
it takes a reactor!
http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xwxwf_velo-a-reacteur_auto (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xwxwf_velo-a-reacteur_auto)
http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x1228o_velo-a-reacteur_creation (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x1228o_velo-a-reacteur_creation)
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on June 12, 2013, 05:31:00 pm
Maybe, but nowadays I can't run as fast as I could!
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on June 12, 2013, 10:22:41 pm
Thanks to my old friend Andy (tattooed) the turbines will soon be under construction, made from plastic tube, and will be sprayed in a metal colour by my adopted daughter's partner.


Watch this space...
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on June 16, 2013, 07:43:10 am
A short update on "High Hopes"...


I haven't been able to do much, it's been a bad week health wise, but I have managed to make a start on the rear bodywork...that was interesting, to say the least!


I've managed to buy a new pair of rear tyres with a much more realistic looking tread pattern...needless to say, they don't fit the rear wheels, so now I'm looking for a pair of Tamiya Clod Buster rear wheels. This is getting to be damn expensive!


That's about it for the minute..not much to report really.







Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on June 21, 2013, 01:20:38 am
Quick update on 'Operation High Hopes'...


The new rear wheels/tyres have been sorted out and should be here tomorrow with a bit of luck and a following wind...


The rear bodywork (mudguards) turned out pretty good, I cut them to size out of 1mm styrene sheet, boiled them in water for a few minutes, then bent them to shape and left them to cool off. Had to boil them twice, but the end result is fair to middling. Just need to have the corners sanded off, then adopted daughter's partner is going to spray them metallic purple with the wording 'High Hopes' in a gold colour, and the design shown in the pic on each one. Next I have figure out a way of attaching them to the chassis...



Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: tattooed on June 21, 2013, 08:11:53 pm
and your turbine is on the building board mate and should be with you next weekend  :-))
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on June 21, 2013, 08:17:20 pm
That's great Andy, thanks so much...err...I need three of them.  %)
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: tattooed on June 21, 2013, 08:28:56 pm
i did know that >>:-( did you think i was that stupid  <*<
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on June 21, 2013, 08:32:22 pm
Phew...I thought I'd got it wrong, dad.  O0
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on June 22, 2013, 10:48:19 am
You just gotta have good friends...and they don't come any better than Andy (tattooed)




Thanks for all your help, mate..
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: tattooed on June 22, 2013, 07:48:01 pm
your always very welcome mate just glad i can help a friend out :-))
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on July 05, 2013, 12:24:11 pm
Swift update...the fancy new rear wheels and tyres are due to arrive Monday ish, and the rear bodywork is practically finished, just needs a  nifty bit of sanding on the corners, then it's off to adopted daughter's partner to be sprayed and lettered up ready to fit. I think I've fathomed out how to attach the rear bodywork, I'll have a play with that with a spare one I made (and cocked up...)

Turbines still under construction.
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: tattooed on July 05, 2013, 07:56:09 pm
sorry for the delay mate been out on the road alot also had to get some supplies from my shop(work {-) )should have it all done this weekend for you :-))
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on July 05, 2013, 08:29:36 pm
No worries mate, I thought you'd maybe been up the road. No rush,  I'm just grateful that you're doing them for me.
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on July 13, 2013, 09:43:59 pm
Right, now we are cooking with gas...the wheels/tyres will be here Monday, and the turbines are practically finished. Next week I can finally get cracking...
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: tattooed on July 20, 2013, 08:15:08 pm
turbines all done rich and in the post monday sorry for the delay out on the road alot mate hope it's what you wanted
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on July 20, 2013, 08:38:37 pm
Super mate, thanks ever so much for all your efforts. Rear bodywork is done, just needs prospective son in law to weave his magic with the air brush, new wheels/tyres fitted...it's getting there.


Thanks again, mate...
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: tattooed on July 22, 2013, 02:55:31 pm
turbines are on there way as i type this mate :-))
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on July 22, 2013, 04:04:39 pm
You're a star, mate...a true star. How much do I owe you?


Rich
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: tattooed on July 22, 2013, 05:31:17 pm
nowt,ziltch,nothing
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on July 22, 2013, 05:37:45 pm
I shall be calling you later, young man...
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on July 24, 2013, 11:06:02 am
The turbines have just arrived for ''High Hopes'', awesome piece of modelling...thanks so much, Andy...a true star!




Rich
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on July 24, 2013, 01:08:43 pm
Turbines laid temporarily in position on the chassis, main fuel tank has to be made, plus the controls for the fuel. The roll cage has to be removed and raised a fair bit, then the bodywork needs to altered a bit before I can fit it.

Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on July 24, 2013, 01:11:27 pm
Another pic
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: unbuiltnautilus on July 24, 2013, 01:37:12 pm
Sweet :-)) . Original use of plumbing fittings there. Quick polish and ready to run??
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: Shipmate60 on July 24, 2013, 01:50:52 pm
Metal Intakes: Obviously fully operational units!!!


Bob
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on July 24, 2013, 02:30:15 pm
The thought of having fully working turbines did cross my mind...briefly. But the two main places I'll be running it don't allow ic engines, let alone turbines. (that's if I can ever get my legs working to get out and run it)



Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: essex2visuvesi on July 24, 2013, 03:42:46 pm
(that's if I can ever get my legs working to get out and run it)


Maybe we should do a group build and build you a chair.... like davros from Dr Who :)
(Turbines optional)
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on July 24, 2013, 03:47:45 pm
 Now I could get into that, E2V...I'd want alloy wheels, of course...rear wing and a full set of wheelie bars.   ;D

Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: tattooed on July 24, 2013, 07:14:50 pm
think they could have been abit bigger mate if you want them remade let me know
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on July 24, 2013, 07:44:01 pm
No mate, they are spot on, couldn't be better. I've still got the fuel control system to fit in behind the turbines, and there's enough room.


Thanks so much mate...

Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on April 14, 2014, 09:18:18 am
An update on 'Operation High Hopes'...


I regret to say that I managed to drop the turbines that Andy built for me (b*&^%y arthritis) and finished up with a large pile of styrene pieces and three pieces of copper pipe.


The project was shelved after that for a while, and the funny car sold on. Two days ago, the decision was made to start again, so I've managed to rebuild the turbine wreckage into a single engine, and with the help of friend on the Tamiya Trucks page on Facebook, a whole new chassis is being built around the turbine. This is being made from a Tamiya Volvo FH12 chassis, with the stock diff and rear axle and chrome Lunch Box rear wheels/tyres. The front axle is stock FH12, but moved forward to within 1/2'' from the front to allow room for the weight box, and will use a pair of Tamiya wheels/tyres from a race car.

A micro 2.4gHz rx will fit inside the turbine body, along with a micro esc, the lipo battery will sit inside the transfer box behind the turbine, and the mini steering servo sits inbetween the chassis rails under the turbine body.  The motor will be a small brushless one (haven't decided which one yet) and will drive the Volvo rear axle direct from a shortened and modified Tamiya shaft, this will sit directly behind the transfer box.


Attached are two pics of the single turbine build so far, and one of the tractor I'm basing High Hopes on.

More to come as and when...


Rich
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on April 23, 2014, 10:30:50 pm
I've just received the first picture of the mocked up chassis..ignore the wheels, they are just to show the chassis stance, the proper wheels are on order.

The rear axle may be narrowed if it's feasible, it would be a lot more scale looking if it can be done.

Rich
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on April 27, 2014, 11:04:38 am
This is the Mark V1 turbine...so far, I'm reasonably happy with it. There's a few more pipes to go on here and there, and the safety heat covers, but it's getting there.


Rich
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: IanPal on April 27, 2014, 05:10:26 pm
Looking better each time mate, I do think you need the bend done in stainless though  :-))
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: Netleyned on April 27, 2014, 05:37:30 pm
Have the bend made in Stainless?

Trying to part the man with his pension %% %%

Ned
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on April 27, 2014, 06:08:44 pm
Very few of the full size tractors have s/steel exhausts, so I'm just following scale procedure. (says he with hand firmly on wallet...)




Rich
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: IanPal on April 27, 2014, 06:48:51 pm
To be honest Ned, I think he's doing that pretty well himself without any help from us  O0
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on April 27, 2014, 07:06:17 pm
I inherited the art of spending money from my two ex wives...


Rich
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: Netleyned on April 27, 2014, 07:12:52 pm
Two exies :D :D
Wonder you have any pennys <:( %%

Ned
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on April 27, 2014, 07:46:44 pm
Where there's a wheel there's a bike... ;D


Rich






Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on April 28, 2014, 09:50:02 am
Bit more done to the false turbine...heat safety shields fitted now. I haven't put any sponsor decals on yet, I think they will go on the turbine mounting bracket covers, each side...not sure yet.


I think I'm reasonably happy with this one...if not, I have found a 1/10th scale 440 cu in V8 engine kit on eBay, so 'High Hopes' may end up in a different pulling class.... ;D


Rich
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: essex2visuvesi on April 28, 2014, 05:42:00 pm
Bit more done to the false turbine...heat safety shields fitted now. I haven't put any sponsor decals on yet, I think they will go on the turbine mounting bracket covers, each side...not sure yet.


I think I'm reasonably happy with this one...if not, I have found a 1/10th scale 440 cu in V8 engine kit on eBay, so 'High Hopes' may end up in a different pulling class.... ;D


Rich


Any chance you could post or pm a link to that engine?
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on April 28, 2014, 05:47:12 pm
I had to buy a complete car kit just for the motor... <:( ...I'll find it and post it up here in a bit. Sit tight, chap...


Rich
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: eddiesolo on April 28, 2014, 06:31:06 pm
This is just awesome Rich :-))


Si:)
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on April 28, 2014, 06:38:01 pm
Well, thank you Si...it's only an aerosol tin with a copper U bend on it, when all's said and done.


I'm hoping the chassis will arrive very soon, then I can crack on with the proper building. I have all the electronics ready for it, the awkwardest (is that a word?) part will be the construction of the bodywork, I think.




Rich
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on April 28, 2014, 07:37:53 pm
Here you go, E2V...eBay item number : 390791376871

Rich
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: essex2visuvesi on April 28, 2014, 08:20:31 pm
Here you go, E2V...eBay item number : 390791376871

Rich


You know its 1:12 and not 1:10?
I have this kit in my to do pile.
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on April 28, 2014, 09:05:54 pm
Yep, I know...may have to buy another and make a twin motored job. Or even two more and do the job properly... ;D
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: essex2visuvesi on April 28, 2014, 11:05:26 pm
http://www.ebay.com/itm/REVELL-FORD-T-BIG-TUB-2n-1-MODEL-KIT-1-8-SCALE-/370735040181?pt=Model_Kit_US&hash=item565187c6b5


maybe a couple of these?
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on April 29, 2014, 07:15:32 am
Wrong scale, E2V.. <:(  My tractor is around 1/14th-1/12th scale, based on a set of 1/14th scale Tamiya FH12 Volvo chassis rails.


Here's another one, bit clever this...but, wrong scale again. <:(


http://store.rc4wd.com/Fracture-V8-Engine-with-T-Case_p_827.html (http://store.rc4wd.com/Fracture-V8-Engine-with-T-Case_p_827.html)




Rich
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: vnkiwi on April 29, 2014, 07:50:19 am
Hi Rich,
I have a couple of V8 files for 3D printing, and can print one or two for you, in whatever scale you want.
Not sure what scale the one in the photo is, but the heads & block are 55mm long.
PM me if your interested.Nice work your doing, keep it up
cheers
 :-))
vnkiwi
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on April 29, 2014, 08:05:07 am
Ooh, that looks nice, VNK...I may very well take you up on that offer. I can't do too much until the chassis arrives (shouldn't be that much longer, I hope) Once I've got that on the bench, I can begin to work out which motor to use and how many, where on the chassis it (they) will go, etc.


I still have to work out where all the radio is going to fit...


Thanks for the offer, much appreciated.


Rich
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: vnkiwi on April 29, 2014, 08:18:42 am
Hi Rich,
Your welcome.
Personally, I'd like to see you do the turbine truck, and the offer still stands for this, or your next one.
Only to happy to help
cheers
vnkiwi
 :-))
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on April 29, 2014, 08:24:28 am
I'd prefer to do the turbine tractor as well, provided nothing goes drastically wrong, that's the one I'll be doing.


I'm also following up on a kit of a Pro Stock tractor from the US of A, which may be next on the bench...but, I need to finish the turbine first, I want to take it to a show in August.




Rich
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: Sparky on April 29, 2014, 10:13:15 am
Rich -- That bug -- it's bugging me -- seriously !!  {:-{ {:-{

Can't read your posts without being distracted by it !, bit good though !!. O0 O0

Cheers, Vic.
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: vnkiwi on April 29, 2014, 10:21:25 am
I tied to squish that bug before realizing it was in the screen, not on it.
 O0
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on April 29, 2014, 10:30:33 am
My 'ladyfriend' in Canada spent ages cleaning her iPad screen when she first saw it...


The name's Arnie...Arnie the Ant.   ;D




Rich
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on April 30, 2014, 08:45:41 am
Latest updates on 'High Hopes'..


I heard from my chassis builder last night, the rear and front axles are now fitted to the chassis with custom made brackets, rear wheels/tyres sourced and fitted, he's having troubles though finding a pair of front wheels and tyres that will fit the FH12 axle, and also look right, size wise.


I think I've worked out the steering servo mounting, once that's installed I can get the steering rods made up.


Today I hope to make a start on the rear bodywork, fingers permitting..


More updates (and hopefully some pictures) later.


Rich
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: IanPal on April 30, 2014, 09:23:07 am
Aww does that mean I can have a good look at your bodywork this evening then  :o


That's if it's still ok to pop down, it was Wednesday you said wasn't it?
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on April 30, 2014, 09:33:10 am
You really want to look at my bodywork?  :o


Yep, see you tonight mate...make sure you've plenty of room in your car, I've been having another clear out... ;D


Rich
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on April 30, 2014, 09:35:59 am
Time for a bit of bling on the turbine...sponsor decal boards made up, these sit more or less as in  the pic, and are fitted to the chassis to protect the pipework. Warning signs also stuck on 'Danger, Hot' etc.


Rich


The postman has just delivered the decals and the steering wheel, so I can now make up the control box.



Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: derekwarner on April 30, 2014, 01:13:10 pm
 >>:-(....get rid of that e**en ant <*<.....I hate it...........it detracts from your post threads Rich.......... O0.......Derek
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on April 30, 2014, 01:17:09 pm
You leave my ant alone, you...you bully! I'll report you to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Ants!   :police:


Ants have feelings, you know... ;D


Rich (and Arnie Ant)
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on May 01, 2014, 09:38:46 pm
Situation report...just had the latest photographic updates on the chassis. Note the narrowed rear axle..


Rich


Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: vnkiwi on May 01, 2014, 10:26:59 pm
lookin' good
 :-))
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: IanPal on May 02, 2014, 08:39:26 am
Starting to take shape Rich, and that turbine looks far better in the flesh than in the pictures. Only problem I can see is every time I come down to look I seem to come away with a car load. Your room is clearing but mine is filling up.


5 subs I've had off you now and I got asked if I was trying to start my own navy when I got home  {-)


So when do you think the chassis will be on your doorstep?
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on May 02, 2014, 08:53:42 am
Thanks Ian,


I had an interesting phone call yesterday, I'm not allowed to say too much ( :police: ) but there may be a change of turbine on the cards.  ;D


I'm glad you were allowed back indoors Wednesday night, I did have visions of you sleeping in the car...


Hoping to have the chassis here next week, mate...then the real work can commence. I'm looking forward to getting cracking on it...




Rich
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: IanPal on May 02, 2014, 09:00:56 am
Oh go on, do tell. Your not going for one of those (cough) expensive ones are you?


I still might end up in the car  if I don't find somewhere for the s class, it's still sat in the living room at the moment  %%
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on May 02, 2014, 09:06:48 am
I remember that problem when I had U-117...'er that was indoors wasn't best pleased to have a 9' U boat 'cluttering up the front room'. In the end we compromised...I bought her a fancy wall unit on the condition that U-117 could live on the top of it.


I couldn't possibly comment on the possibility of the new turbine...Official Secrets Act, etc.  All I can say is that it will have ''revolving parts...''




Rich
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on May 02, 2014, 05:55:15 pm
After much bad language and two failed attempts at the rear bodywork, a friend on a German pulling forum I belong to suggested a Dutch website which supplies all sorts of pulling parts and accessories.


To cut a long story shirt, I've ordered a set of their rear bodywork panels, all beautifully pre formed in heavy weight Lexan...€45 plus €10 insured delivery. It may be cheating, but it will save me an awful lot of work (and even more bad language)


Photos to follow...


Rich
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on May 02, 2014, 07:05:11 pm
Photos of the rear bodywork parts..


Rich

Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on May 03, 2014, 07:13:34 am
Pic showing bodywork fitted with the driver's safety area installed..




Rich
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on May 03, 2014, 02:21:43 pm
Made a start on the control panel...just the main power switch to make and fit. And just noticed the rev counter is crooked...   <:(

Rich
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: IanPal on May 03, 2014, 03:27:45 pm
Wow, I like very much mate. so that was the idea then, glow motor?


I had to really stare to notice the rev counter, once all in will it be that noticeable? as the saying goes, a blind man would like to see it.


Rich, on Tuesday I will probably be running up to Uckfield   as I need some more plasticard and bit's, is there anything you need while I'm up there?
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on May 03, 2014, 04:29:27 pm
It's now in the right way up/round/whatever...the yellow part of the rev scale is now vertical. I don't 'spose it does really matter Ian, but it annoyed me...  >>:-(  I've just found a tiny red led, I might install that on the panel as well...or is that going OTT?


Glow motor? Oh, see what you mean...no, that pic was just to show what the bodywork should look like when it's mounted, probably a bad choice on my behalf.   <:(


Uckfield...hmm...can I make up a shopping list please, Ian? Plasticard sheet/strip and solvent, I'll get the sizes and drop you a pm tomorrow if that's ok?




Rich
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: IanPal on May 03, 2014, 04:41:53 pm
Yes, no problem, you have till Tuesday as they are not open until then being bank holiday. come to think of it I don't think they open Mondays anyway.
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on May 03, 2014, 04:47:21 pm
That'd be great...thanks Ian, muchly appreciated.


Rich
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on May 03, 2014, 05:53:56 pm
I really really want one of these in 'High Hopes'...


https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=R7o-8UA3p1k
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: Big Ada on May 03, 2014, 07:36:42 pm
Photos of the rear bodywork parts..


Rich



Look like Springer Hulls to me!
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on May 11, 2014, 12:59:01 pm
Latest updates on 'High Hopes'...the chassis is on the way, and in the hands of the couriers, should be here by Tuesday.
The rear fenders are also en route from Holland, according to the tracking system they should be arriving early next week.


I've just had a call from my mate Andy, the new turbine is under construction...and what a turbine it will be. Stainless steel body, cut and welded stainless exhaust with "heat staining" left on, brass strip rivetted around the turbine shell, polished fuel tanks and fuel lines...I am really going to have to up my game to do this justice.


I have the new motor ready, prop shaft and couplings ready, last bit to get will be a three channel pistol grip 2.4gHz radio.


More updates and photos to follow during the week.


Rich



Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: essex2visuvesi on May 11, 2014, 08:59:10 pm
last bit to get will be a three channel pistol grip 2.4gHz radio.


More updates and photos to follow during the week.


Rich


Will a Spektrum DX3.0 do you?
(http://www.modelsport.co.uk/_images/products/normal/spm20310_2.jpg)
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on May 12, 2014, 07:03:42 am
Something along those lines, yes...although the Traxxas one that came with the funny car is on the list too.


Rich
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: triumphjon on May 12, 2014, 07:33:55 am
is there much of a following for small scale pullers in this country rich ? i know a few people who use modded gargen tractors , plus the bigger rover v8 powered one i asssited biulding a few years ago , and of course tony who has a yank tractor unit which he travel around europe with pulling

Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on May 12, 2014, 08:32:58 am
If we're talking full size pulling Jon, then yes...there are several UK organisations spread around the country, and loads of forums and websites. There used to be a chap who owned a garage near Heathfield, right out in the sticks, he had a Merlin powered tractor (in fact, that was the first puller I ever saw) The tractor was still around up until a few years ago, I used to see it parked up in a shed when I was working up that way. There are several shows in Sussex where you can go and see tractor pulling, one just up the road from me...might even take mine along when it's done.


R/c model pulling is a different kettle of fish...Europe has several rc clubs, forums and websites all devoted to pulling competitions, but here in the UK, I seem to be the only one who has any interest in building a tractor.


My tractor will really only get used for demonstrations at model shows, so I'm not overly bothered about entering pulling competitions with it...it's just something I've wanted to build for a long time, but never got round to doing so until now.


Rich
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on May 13, 2014, 12:01:54 pm
Just a short update...the rear fenders arrived this morning. Now all I need is the perishin' chassis to be delivered...I can't do anything without that bit!   <:(


Rich
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: triumphjon on May 13, 2014, 06:22:49 pm
i know theres a following for full size tractor pulling richard , ive been to a couple of events myself , north somerset show and headington &stockley , as i used to work for somebody who used to pull the sled ! model tractor pulling could be an interesting side of our hobby , are you building the sled as well as the tractor ??

Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on May 13, 2014, 06:27:46 pm
Eventually Jon, yes...I have a set of plans for a sled downloaded ready, plus there's the option of buying a full kit from a company in the States. The sled itself in model form is quite a complex thing to build, with a lot of engineering needed to get everything to work properly. I didn't realise just how complex a sled was until I looked into building one.

Rich
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on May 15, 2014, 10:38:34 am
''High Hopes'' takes a step forward at last...the chassis has just arrived.  Chris has done an excellent job with it...size is bang on, the stance is perfect, and it looks really good. I'm pleased that the turbine fits perfectly too...not bad for guesswork over the measurements!


The new turbine that Andy is building for me is being made using the same measurements and sizes as this one, so I can go ahead now and make a start on making the other little bits...I have the front oil tank ready, a new instrument panel, so first thing to do is to install the steering servo. Next will be the drive transfer box which hopefully will house the LiPo battery, then the main motor.


Rich

Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: IanPal on May 16, 2014, 08:27:47 am
Very nice, why couldn't it of turned up a day earlier so I'd of of seen it  %)


Does this mean you didn't get to do what you planned with the skip? your not allowed to put that back under the bed while you play with High Hopes you know, your end up forgetting it's under there again  {-)
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on May 16, 2014, 08:33:39 am
Fear not, young Ian...the Skipjack is on the slipway, I think I've worked out the cylinder and the Engel tank installation now, thanks to Andy.


'High Hopes' is awaiting parts to arrive, so whilst I wait for those, I'm going to make a start on opening up the flood holes in the Skippy today.


But first...tea is needed.




Rich


(PS...your tank is here)
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: IanPal on May 17, 2014, 07:17:49 pm
Young? Hell it's been a long time since I've been called that...


I'll pick up the tank when I'm next down, that way you might of cracked on with yours a bit and I can copy  :P
Title: Re: Operation "High Hopes"
Post by: U-33 on May 17, 2014, 07:28:38 pm
No worries mate...Wednesday as usual? The cylinder should be here by then.


Rich