1/12 Scratch Build Frame V6.0

[GTmike400]

Heres the new frame pieces Im starting with. Explination will ensue progress. Below are pics of the new rear sections of the rails. Im building the rear seperate to make sure it works, and if it doesnt, then it saves material. Also are pics of the beginning of the aluminum two link for the rear suspension out of 6061 Aluminum.


http://img465.imageshack.us/img465/3328/img04051hw.jpg

http://img468.imageshack.us/img468/6836/img04068zd.jpg

http://img468.imageshack.us/img468/857/img04078gt.jpg

http://img388.imageshack.us/img388/7457/img04078qn.jpg

[GTmike400]

http://img388.imageshack.us/img388/5756/img04085ep.jpg

http://img388.imageshack.us/img388/386/img04107yw.jpg

http://img468.imageshack.us/img468/9778/img04122rj.jpg

Thanks for looking. More pics tomorrow hopefully.

[slammd454SS]

looking awesome as always young un.

[GTmike400]

I have been working on the milled radius rods, two links, ladder bars, what ever you please to call them. I had a few problems, and they are far from perfect. I'll probably end up redoing them down the line. Milled out of 6061 aluminum, and polished with a variety of cloths and compounds. Still needs more polishing if I choose to use these and not redo them. They will end up being repolished during final assembly because of course they will be knicked, scratched, and filed on Im sure.

http://img349.imageshack.us/img349/4337/img04217bu.jpg

http://img287.imageshack.us/img287/5346/img04224pu.jpg

The two pictures below are of the rough milled (standing vertically) and the "finished" piece
http://img287.imageshack.us/img287/5536/img04234hf.jpg

http://img287.imageshack.us/img287/9293/img04266li.jpg

Little bit of explination about these since I seem to be getting numerous questions about them. These tie into the cross members, not on, around, below, or bracketed. They are going to be built into the cross members for an ultra celan look (more on that later). Then on the opposite end, the two holes are for the bracketry on the axel, also very smooth and clean. The notch just forward of that is for the shock mounts, which I will turn on my lathe then mill the flats. The flats will be flush with the radius rod to for a super smooth look.

Sorry for talking to much.

[daveyracer]

Awesome work there buddy....

[Matt Wadlinger]

Very nice and shiney. You gonna anodize 'em with sharpies?

[GTmike400]

Finally finished a single shock. This is a shock for the rear suspension, the rear shocks are a bit shorter than the front. 100% scratchbuilt, including the spring, and 100% fully functional and adjustable. The adjuster/collar is threaded to change the spring tension. Something like 12 hours of machine time, and 6 seperate pieces.

http://img294.imageshack.us/img294/6204/img04386tz.jpg

http://img47.imageshack.us/img47/3170/img04404as.jpg

http://img294.imageshack.us/img294/4016/img04422wj.jpg

Thanks for looking!

EDIT: Just looking at the pics, seems like I should have dusted them before taking pics.

EDIT 2: This is also the first thing I have turned on my lathe, so it is anything but perfect.

[GTmike400]

Here are the brackets for the rear suspension/four links, and the "axel". I still need to machine the differential casing, and third member. I dont have the material for that right now, so the brackets are already soldered on to keep things moving at a steady pace. Once I turn the diff case I will cut the axel in half, slide the case on, and solder it all up.

http://www.pichut.org/up/IMG_0446.jpg

http://www.pichut.org/up/IMG_0448.jpg

[GTmike400]

Got a lot done...now Im second guessing myself about the frame. This is just the rear section, the front section will be built seperate, then attached together later. The joint will be dovetailed, pinned, and another sheet will be laminated on the outside.

So, about the progress. I worked 20 hours yesterday (up until 5:00am building), then worked another 8-10 hours today. Functional suspension (four links), havent built both of the springs yet. Yadda yadda. It's anything but perfect...I dont think its even that decent for that matter. Lots of stuff needs to be straightened...the more I think about it the more I hate it.

Here is the horror:

http://img155.imageshack.us/img155/3456/img0452b4zg.jpg

http://img76.imageshack.us/img76/9421/img0454b3el.jpg

[Zoom Zoom]

Mike, it looks good-don't worry that some things aren't perfect and don't give up on it-there's no reason to start over (not that you said you would, but it's happened in the past). That will happen w/every project. Try to look forward and not get tied up w/the details, and learn when to let things be and move forward. With a project like this you're bound to have challenges at every turn that will be frustrating. Try working on another part of the model while you stew over the parts that are buggin you. That way you move forward in one area while you figure out the other. It's plenty "decent"!

[GTmike400]

Thanks Bob! Thats reasurring. I through it in a jig earlier. Most of its straightened out for now. I just hope when it comes out of the jig that its still straight and square.

I just keep looking for the final reveal at the show, and that anticipation drives me forward.

[Zomby Woof]

That's coming along beautifully. It is going to an awesome "best in show" model when its done I'll bet.

[GTmike400]

Fixed the frame now, its all straight, well mostly. If time allows I'll fix it later, I need to keep moving forward to learn more about modeling of this kind and attempt to get it finished for the show.

http://img142.imageshack.us/img142/5214/img04565ms.jpg

http://img142.imageshack.us/img142/9732/img04576rr.jpg

http://img142.imageshack.us/img142/2107/img04586us.jpg

I like it a lot more now.

Next I will be building the front section of the rails. Im really excited about my engine mounts. But, I have to finish designing my engine first to make sure it will fit the rails nicely before I start building anything.

[GTmike400]

Here are a few quick pics of the new frame.

http://www.pichut.org/up/IMG_0777.JPG

http://www.pichut.org/up/IMG_0779.JPG

http://www.pichut.org/up/IMG_0782.JPG

I still need to add the clip that attaches to the front in that last picture. I will be working on that tonight and tomorrow, and also finishing up the rear Ford 9"

[Lug Nutzz]

Man your rolling now! I take it that the wrist is doing better. You've done a great job of keeping the symmetry through the frame.

[Dino Scuderia]

That looks like a frame that a guy has been working on for years....oh, it is.

[Pauley Sty Reen]

This is looking pretty good, Mike. Unless its really twisted and out of alignment, I would keep going on it. It will look better as you progress. I know you are aware of all the defects, but like Bob said, some defects will need to be tolerated. The next project will be an opportunity to improve on this.

[Zoom Zoom]

The chassis is looking really good, it's coming along well.

As I mentioned last night, I was wondering what type of structure you are going to add to the upper front suspension mount. Is the following illustration anything like you envisioned?

http://images7.fotki.com/v110/photos/1/10258/17860/Chassis-vi.jpg

[GTmike400]

Yes Bob, similar to that.

Heres a normal aftermarket '32 Deuce independent front suspension control arm mount.

http://streetrodderweb.com/tech/0308sr_chasis14_z.jpg

Thanks for all the comments, its good you have y'all backing me up and cheering me along.

[GTmike400]

I have been working on the rear suspension assembly. I first machined the rear axel out of brass, and resin. I then proceeded to the hardware for it. After machining a dozen bolts I started going nuts. A dozen bolts and nuts total machined on the lathe (with hex heads).

http://www.pichut.org/up/IMG_0829.JPG
Note, one of those pieces is a blank that accidently fell into the shot. The rest are the actual nuts and bolts for the rear suspension. Compared to a penny for size.

http://www.pichut.org/up/IMG_0836.JPG

http://www.pichut.org/up/IMG_0838.jpg

Thanks.

[Steve_L]

Hey man, that project is looking good! I think Augie would be proud...

[slammd454SS]

that thing is takin shape quite well Mike, you could make even some of the best guys jealous with your arm tied behind your back..lol.

[BRE350Z]

Mike - you continue to amaze me - keep up the good work

Wayne

[GTmike400]

I have built more of the body using resin, styrene, and evercoat. I first started by building a styrene frame, then proceeded to fill it with resin and sand it into shape. Note the styrene profile cuves on the 1/4 panel.

http://www.pichut.org/up/IMG_0858.JPG

http://www.pichut.org/up/IMG_0872.JPG

http://www.pichut.org/up/IMG_0873.JPG

The door jambs are no near the finished product. What is shown is the exterior visible door line, not the jambs. Those will be build at a later date. Currently I am beginning to shape the other 1/4 panel. I will step to building the rest of the rear shortly followed by the front of the "cab".

[Zoom Zoom]

Lookin' good so far! Don't slow down! :D

[slammd454SS]

thats freekin awesome Mike, its really comin together.

[dragfan]

One year ago today, the world lost Augie Hiscano; I'm sure that he is smiling down from Heaven about the progress you have made on your project & is telling you in his own special way, "You go, boy!"

[Zoom Zoom]

One year ago today, the world lost Augie Hiscano; I'm sure that he is smiling down from Heaven about the progress you have made on your project & is telling you in his own special way, "You go, boy!"

Indeed. I can't believe it's been a whole year.

I just dug out the exhaust tips he gave me; at the end of our 2004 show he came up to me and said something along the lines of "hey Bob, I see that you like tuners-I didn't know that before, and I really dig your Z car. Here are some exhaust tips I turned today that I think you might like".

I was surprised with the gift and honored that he would think of me. They are the three most valued pieces of model car parts in my entire collection.

That's the kind of guy Augie was.

[GTmike400]

http://www.pichut.org/up/IMG_1205.JPG

http://www.pichut.org/up/IMG_1221.JPG

[The Prez]

;) :D ;)

I still think Mike is really a 30something old guy.Who is the Federal
Marshals witness protection program.I can't wait until the show.
Both Mike and Ken's work is OUTSTANDING.The Augie Award is going
to be tough this year. The Prez:D :D

[Zoom Zoom]

;) :D ;)

I still think Mike is really a 30something old guy.Who is the Federal
Marshals witness protection program.I can't wait until the show.
Both Mike and Ken's work is OUTSTANDING.The Augie Award is going
to be tough this year. The Prez:D :D

Hmmmm... I'm starting to think Mike and Dennis are twin brothers separated at birth :D The upcoming family reunious could be a real hoot.

Speaking of hoots...er....where are yesterday's pictures :confused: :D

[Dino Scuderia]

Looking really nice, Mike!

[Pauley Sty Reen]

This is really starting to look like something. I find it motivating when I can see progress on my projects and I hope the encouragement and results so far motivate you to keep going.

Lookin' good!

Ken
(It feels great to finish a major project!)

[freakmech]

Holy crap Mike, it looks like a car! I never thought it would be realised but here it is, body panels and all. Im actually getting excited about this now. Keep it up!

[Dennis]

Mike, that is really starting to come together!! Great work!!

[Zoom Zoom]

It's nice to see it coming together and seeing more than just a chassis. Looking good so far. Though Mike was disturbed at seeing his model get felt up at the meeting :eek: Hey, they do it wet at the body shop and it's pretty dirty too :D

[GTmike400]

Thanks for all the compliments and kind remarks. I'm honored to even be mentioned to run for the Augie. I always joke about it with no seriousness behind it what so ever.

Unfortunately, been having to RTV problems to progress much further. Hopefully it can be worked out.

Thanks again! Even if Bob was feeling up my model.

Oh, while I havent been working on the model I've been working on a tool for the model. A miniature english wheel to form the brass panels for the body. I told Pico about it at the meeting yesterday an he gave me an evil look. :) Should I post pics of that?

[Zoom Zoom]

Oh, while I havent been working on the model I've been working on a tool for the model. A miniature english wheel to form the brass panels for the body. I told Pico about it at the meeting yesterday an he gave me an evil look. :) Should I post pics of that?

DUH...don't ask, just do it! Let Pico worry about whether he needs a defibrillator or not :D

[GTmike400]

The frame is built out of 1/2" square tubing. The lower anvil is machined out of a 41xx material with bearings from one of my racing RC's. The upper wheel is a 1.25" bearing. I still have to make the yokes and adjuster for it. But here is the frame so far.

http://www.pichut.org/up/IMG_1304.JPG

http://www.pichut.org/up/IMG_1306.JPG

http://www.pichut.org/up/IMG_1308.JPG

http://www.pichut.org/up/IMG_1309.JPG

[willimo]

Wow! I didn't know so much was going on with this car! It's actually getting somewhere, and looking great! I really like the tail end of it. Great style. And your english wheel - I hope it works as well as it looks.

[GTmike400]

I spent the day machining my crankcase out of resin. I could have done it in aluminum, but it would have taken too long, plus theres not a need for it. This is technically the bulkhead for the engine as everything will be built off of it.

The blue is dykem, I'll wash it off with alcohol this evening.

http://img347.imageshack.us/img347/975/img3910bl0.jpg

http://img54.imageshack.us/img54/1585/img3928ef3.jpg

http://img174.imageshack.us/img174/7228/img3929ka2.jpg

Enjoy!

[Dino Scuderia]

Looks good!

[GTmike400]

My God this took forever. I have quite the journal of pictures show the parts I cranked out. I've been working on this since I got home from school on Wednesday. What a headache, and its still not done. I still need to sleeve the crankcase, and machine the main caps so I can bolt it all together to square it off. Then I have to balance it, and solder it all together.

I first milled out all the counterweights out of brass.
http://img226.imageshack.us/img226/8057/img3848bd2.jpg

I then proceeded to true the counterweights on my lathe. At this point I also chamfered the edges on the bell curve.

http://img184.imageshack.us/img184/5455/img3862nm0.jpg

http://img132.imageshack.us/img132/2310/img3864li4.jpg

http://img184.imageshack.us/img184/567/img3870xe3.jpg

After finishing all of the counterweights I machined all of the journals seperately. I'd also like to note that at this time I also machined all of the sleeves for the mains and connecting rods to check the fit before I put the crank together. That way I know it will fit when it comes time to bolt everything together.

http://img132.imageshack.us/img132/7324/img3874do0.jpg

http://img132.imageshack.us/img132/339/img3876xf0.jpg

And then here is the final product.

http://img132.imageshack.us/img132/8692/img3961zk0.jpg

http://img90.imageshack.us/img90/940/img3967bc6.jpg

http://img90.imageshack.us/img90/8287/img3971tt7.jpg

Thanks for looking.

[The Prez]

:eek: Oh! My God!!! This looks great.We have got to find you another girl:D :D Way too much free time on your hands.;)

[BRE350Z]

:D Mike, this looks great and rember even on a real car things are not perfect. Alos, you need to finish your GT3 so I expect to see you during the holidays. Don't make me hunt you down:eek:

[slammd454SS]

wow, thats awesome. Now to slide it into my truck...