Heymow - Lawnmower Racing Forum

Mower Building / Setup Help => Project Builds => Racing Mower Builds => Topic started by: Squidd on November 05, 2006, 01:21:52 pm

Title: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 05, 2006, 01:21:52 pm
OK just about ready to get started here...

Been collecting parts for the past couple weeks.. and have enough to do the basic layout...

This won't be a 5 hr or two day project, as it's not a "common" chassis rebuild, but more of a custom from the ground up creation...USLMRA rules for mid frame chassis F/X allows the frames to be "updated" as long as they follow the "form" of the original...with a little stretch and widen..so I plan on some creative engineering to use the "allowances" to my advantage.

Comments and concerns always welcome, and I'll try to answer the "why" I did something as well as the "How" I did it.. And be willing to discuss why you might think I should do something different...

First ... "The Victim" ....
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/bradfordWildcat.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/bradfordWildcat.jpg)


A "Bradford Wildcat" of unknown vintage... (any info on history or ID appreciated)
While it looks bulky in the pics..It is Shorter, Narrower, and Lighter than the Rugg chassis I started my A/P with...

Rectangular Frame to be "Updated" and upper tube reinforcements to be "complementary" and functional... >:D

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Frame.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Frame.jpg)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 05, 2006, 01:51:23 pm
Couple parts to start, we'll see them again as we progress...

Power plant...Briggs 28N707 "supposedly" a runner, will have to open 'er up and giver 'er the once over before sending out for mowchine work...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/OHV.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/OHV.jpg)

Also have an ARC Flywheel laying around here somewhere...
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/6611-28.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/6611-28.jpg)

Clutch...Noram Mini Cup (to be modified to work with RAGB)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/MiniCup.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/MiniCup.jpg)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 05, 2006, 02:30:11 pm
Front axle will be based off EC Dist. front spindles.. (these things are "smooooth" George):twothumbsup:

Had George cut the keyway for Hegar front brakes (which will be coming later in the build) the sealed bearings are glass smooth and the adjustabilty  for caster, camber, and ride height will be much appreciated (and used)..

Also had the steering arms left loose so I can place them where needed after axle is located...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/ECFront.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/ECFront.jpg)

I used the ACME "Fun Cart" type spindles on my AP and even after refitting with brass bushings, grease zerks, and reinforcing the arms...there is no comparison..

These are going to  be "WAY" better, smoother and hold ajustment "tighter"...Definetly worth the money...:thumbsup:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 05, 2006, 03:03:08 pm
Rear Brakes just showed up...MCP Dual piston Hyd..

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/MCP.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/MCP.jpg)


and I'm expecting the rear axle, hangers and hubs tomorrow (at least that's what the tracking numbers say)(http://www.saltwaterfish.com/vb/images/smilies/bouncy.gif)

Then we can get started with some "measurements"... :woo:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: 300xdeere on November 05, 2006, 03:25:15 pm
man i wish i had that kind of money i mean i got a nice mwoer but to get all that nice stuff is wow that mower is gonna be sweet whe its all finished like realy sweet i wish i had that kind of money i'm only 15 :P i would need a pretty nice job at my age to make the money to make that thing danm good job can't wait to see it finished :).
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Gearstix on November 05, 2006, 03:31:30 pm
COOL!
I like that mower.
I think that flywheel costs more then my whole mower :lol:
Have fun
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 05, 2006, 03:42:29 pm
Aw Dude...Don't get the wrong impression here..(or discouraged)...

It's not all about the money...while I'll admit, this one i am going to go with some nice parts on, take a lok at my A/P build where I used the more common parts or better yet, Sami's S/S (both stickies in this forum) where we built a competitive class mower with MINIMAL store bought parts..!!!

It's do able with a little work and imagination..!!!

This is my forth mower now (including my IMOW, also a minimal cost build) and so each time I try to upgrade a bit...Yeah, I have a decent job, but I'm also dang near 50 ((http://www.saltwaterfish.com/vb/images/smilies/scared.gif))...so after raising 4 kids and shipping most of them off...It's time for the old man to have a little fun of his own.... >:D

Mostly I'm doing this to show what can be done... Parts can be substituted...and competitive/racing mowchines built within a "reasonable" budget...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Gearstix on November 05, 2006, 03:48:14 pm
Yup, I'm kinda going nuts with my little 5HP. Ive got heads and cams and stuff. I couldnt afford a arc flywheel or anything so  I bought a aluminum 3HP one and it weighs less than a pound. Im guessing it will be anywhere in the 7-10 horse range.
(I'm probably getting a Blue Wazoom Cam, if I win the bid) I'm trying to recycle, or adapt parts to work.
I cant wait to see how your mower turns out.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 06, 2006, 09:13:52 am
Quote
I'm trying to recycle, or adapt parts to work.
THAT is where a lot of the "fun", ingenuity and savings come in...

On my AP I used a snowmobile mechanical disc and caliper for the rear brakes, on Sami's SS we converted a stock diff to a live axle set up...

Both at minimal to no cost...:thumbsup:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: creechfan on November 06, 2006, 03:43:00 pm
sweet sweet!!

are the breaks the ones George sells?
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 06, 2006, 04:04:59 pm
The MCP rear brake set up pictured above, I got off e-bay...not sure what type george sells there..

The front brakes will be Hegar..and most likely come from him when I'm ready for them as he seems to have the best price I've found...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: LVine2001 on November 06, 2006, 04:24:28 pm
Is that the same mower Al Minneaker has?
Looks a lot like his...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Snowman18 on November 06, 2006, 04:32:23 pm
 Randy if you don't need the air cleaner assembly I would like to buy it from you.
 Looking forward to see you winning with that one.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 06, 2006, 05:06:25 pm
Is that the same mower Al Minneaker has?
Looks a lot like his...

Yes actually it is...

I did a google search on Bradford Wildcat and his name came up on top, extreme mower mayhem...

I thought it looked familiar...

I PMd him and he says looks like it..

Now I can go out and "Beat him with his own Mowchine"...Bwahh Haa Haa haaaaa :badgrin:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 06, 2006, 05:13:40 pm
Randy if you don't need the air cleaner assembly I would like to buy it from you.
 Looking forward to see you winning with that one.

Thanks...

PM me and we can work something out on the AC...

Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: allen minaker on November 06, 2006, 08:54:11 pm
now that we know your going to come out and try and beat me i dont think i'm going to be around for you to come over and look at it . :woo: now if you had said that you were going to try and beat me on my OWN MOWCHINE then i could have helped but it sounds like you dont need any help  >:D
that as i told Randy is only the third one of this kind of MOWchine that i have seen . I'm sure there are many mower out there but not as easy to find as some of the other RUGG MOWCHINES .

LEE that has to be the worst that anyone has ever butchered my name , I'v seen alot of differant spellings of my name but that is the best . LOL :lol:

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Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: George Herrin on November 06, 2006, 09:57:23 pm
Yes thats the same brakes We sell at E.C. As for the Hegars, takes a couple weeks to get them in they are 400.00 a set plus shipping. Comes with everything but the wheels and master cyclinder LOL
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 06, 2006, 10:22:08 pm
Dang it Al...Knew I should have come over and gotten those measurements before I said anything... :oops:

Oh well..Ain't the first time my mouth got me in trouble...and probably won't be the last... :badgrin:

Guess well just have to see you on the Track... >:D

Hey..we could be twins... :omg:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: birdman_express on November 06, 2006, 10:27:53 pm
Quote
Squidd  Hey..we could be twins... :omg:



How many tats you got squidd?
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: George Herrin on November 06, 2006, 10:34:34 pm
Allen he won't be able to catch you with the new secret motor ya getting.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 06, 2006, 10:36:05 pm
I got a couple, but he's got me beat there...

Course..he has a "tail" too...!!!  :woo:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: birdman_express on November 06, 2006, 10:38:14 pm
 :lol2:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 06, 2006, 10:40:40 pm
Allen he won't be able to catch you with the new secret motor ya getting.

That will work George... ;)

Just the incentive needed to get Don moving on that "Double Secret" Motor He's building Me...>:D
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: George Herrin on November 06, 2006, 10:56:12 pm
 :owned2: :rofl:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 06, 2006, 11:01:09 pm
Gonna be a long winter...  :bash:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: mightymowe on November 06, 2006, 11:02:30 pm
I was wondering,are you using the vertical crank engine because that is what you got,or is it because that is what is winning in other guys machines,or is it parts availability,or you just like briggs engines? I was just wondering because you can use the horizontal crank engine and do away with the angle drive in F/X.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: George Herrin on November 06, 2006, 11:05:26 pm
But we like it that way!!! And cheaper TOO!!!! :twothumbsup:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 06, 2006, 11:14:56 pm
The horizontal Hondas are doing quite well at present...but to get get them there is also a bit pricy...

The Briggs have been holding their own are a little (lot) cheaper to build and rumor has it there are some trick pieces coming out with the advent of the CP class (more OHVs will be "experimented" on)...and you "might" even be seeing a horizontal Briggs or two out there.... :ninja:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: allen minaker on November 06, 2006, 11:34:56 pm
as George and Squidd both said in a way , its because they work very well when setup right , not to say mine is right  :confused: but i was running a flathead from George  and did pretty good with it and way better on some tracks than the bigger mower powerfull motors . :woo: but next year as was preluded to I will be running a BRANDY NEW OHV from GEORGE and from the sound of it it's going to be BAD  >:D >:D and not in the least bit stealth like your little ninja there Squidd :omg: :lol:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: mightymowe on November 06, 2006, 11:35:17 pm
  I was just curious because as you said the hondas are doing good and I was seeing a lot of hondas on most of the pictures of F/X machines.We have been using Hondas on our machines just in stock form because we can take the govenor off and rev them all day long and it dosn't seem to make too much difference on the durability,they take it and keep on going.But you are right they cost more in the first place.Oh and the ARC flywheel makes them just wild.
  Do you guys know if they are getting them up to 465cc because the stock 13Hp is only 390cc?
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 06, 2006, 11:38:38 pm
Thats where the money is..that and opening up the valve train...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: allen minaker on November 06, 2006, 11:41:29 pm
this is a pic of my MOWchine that Squidd is trying to copy  :roll: .
look alot alike when i got it but with a little TLC and some hard earned money this is what its look like for now at least .

and by the way Squidd i guess i could let you take some pics but its going to cost you a trip to HOOTERS !!!!!! :woo: :woo: GIVE ME A CALL , I'll pm you my number .


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Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: allen minaker on November 06, 2006, 11:42:12 pm
OPPS !!!! WRONG PIC  :bash:

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Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: mightymowe on November 06, 2006, 11:51:44 pm
Nice machine what engine are you running?And is that adjustable caster I see on the front wheels?
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: allen minaker on November 07, 2006, 01:55:13 am
THANK YOU  :D

at the time it has a B&S 28 cid GEORGE built mowtor , but i have a super duper altra secret motor being built by George for next year
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: mowdak1 on November 07, 2006, 05:47:24 am
 :eyebrow: I am not going to say a word... Nope! Not this time George.

I'm gonna leave this one alone... resist temptation... fight the urge!!

Sittin here bitin my finger tips to avoid saying anything!!!

Yep... I'm gonna leave it all up to Randy and Birdman to comment on that "SUPER" duper remark up there!!!



:rofl: <~~ That's cause I know it's coming!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 07, 2006, 07:10:25 am
Yeah we don't want to talk about Don's super hero costume!

Shhhhh...Don doesn't know about "his" secret identity yet...it's a "double" secret... :badgrin:





(I'm thinking Black Ninja Stealth... :ninja: ) 

Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: LVine2001 on November 07, 2006, 08:33:24 am
Sorry Al,
I was in a hurry and didn't take the time to proofread that post like I should have. I was onmy way out of the office and didn't look at it before I clicked on the submit button...

From what I am hearing of new builds going on here and there, it sounds like the upper midwest is gonna have lots more competition in the FX ranks come 2007.

We already had more fx's registered than any other national race (Morris) on the 06' schedule.

Aught to be interesting eh?
 :drool:
#9 out
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: George Herrin on November 07, 2006, 08:35:53 am
you guys are simply  :crazy:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: allen minaker on November 07, 2006, 10:32:03 am
No probablem Lee , i was just joking anyway , if you look at the way i spell things it could confuse anyone .

and what is it that makes us crazy ???
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 07, 2006, 10:25:53 pm
Quote
and what is it that makes us crazy ???

"Racing Lawnmowers" :willynilly: need I say Mower... ;)


Any way back to the build...

The rear axle, Hubs and Hangers came in yesterday...

Got these from "Smokin' Joe"s cart shop on E-bay...Decent prices good selection I suggest checking him out...Shameless Plug..will see how the Kickbacks roll in.. :badgrin:

Has "Package" deals set up in various levels of completion...anything from a pair of hubs or bearings to a complete rolling shoping list including tires/wheels, steering and brakes and brackets..!!!

Got a 1 1/4" chr/moly axle 1/4" wall (black) with matching hubs and cassettes..

Check these out..Dual Clamp Bolts....:thumbsup:

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/hubs.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/hubs.jpg)

I got a "mini pack" with hangers and a couple useful brackets...

Check these out...Set for MCP Brakes..the caliper bracket is also adjustable to allow caliper to follow axle height adjustments...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/brackets.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/brackets.jpg)

Not a "big" deal but handy none the less when we get to mounting the brakes...

Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 07, 2006, 10:37:59 pm
Started setting up the front axle...

Gonna be tight..with the 11" tires I plan on running, I'm just barely making a 4" minimum on the frame...If the tires come in much under 11" diameter I may have to cut the spindles off the barrels and reweld...

I think I'm just gonna "tack" them on until I get the actual tire/wheels in just to be sure...Axle tube a  little closer to that top nut than I'd like to be...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/rideheight.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/rideheight.jpg)

I'm sure they would fit just fine with a 13" tire...any thoughts on that George..?

Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: TrophyRanger on November 07, 2006, 11:34:39 pm
Squidd,

Bear in mind that I know next to nothing about lawnmower technology (other than what I have read on the forum over the past couple of weeks), I was just curious why is the kingpin angle so great on the spindle (angle between the axis of revolution and the the axis that the wheel bearings rotate on).  I'm sure there's a reason why lawnmower racers design them that way but most suspension/steering systems I've seen don't run much over 10 degrees due to the changes in camber when you turn the wheels.  Just thought that you or someone else might be able to inform me.

Thanks,
Matt
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 07, 2006, 11:42:00 pm
It's been discussed a couple times brfore, but check this link (http://www.heymow.com/index.php/topic,98.0.html) out for a little deeper discussion...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: TrophyRanger on November 08, 2006, 12:35:08 am
Thanks,

For some reason they looked to be more than 10 degrees but I guess not. Can you build a mower with suspension or do they have to be rigid frames?

Thanks again,
Matt
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: allen minaker on November 08, 2006, 02:14:59 am
a rigid frame is all that we are allowed to run in the USLMRA , not sure if some of the other groups run a suspension or not .
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: birdman_express on November 08, 2006, 02:24:10 am
I don't think you will have to worry about slippin' a hub with that setup.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Don Gienger on November 08, 2006, 09:18:41 am
Oh Boy Oh Boy.  :woo:
I leave you guys along for just a minute and all goes to Heck!!!
Super Duty Secret motors? Whatever. :lol:
Ninga?
What ever the case just remember who's been doing it longer then any of you newbies. Also remember who has help push the World Famous George to the front more times then any of you all have ever raced is still here building some bad to the bone motors and more. :party:
You got to know if you don't hear anything from me that is when I am up to no good!! >:D
While Briggs Verticle shaft motor is great and there is lots I have done to one for the past 8 years ( Yeah it has been that long G ) there is mower I will be doing to one. In fact you might say I will tip Briggs on it's side!! Yeah No kidding. Josie my 17 year old daughter (today is her birthday ) will get a FX. This FX will be a Mustang and be PINK!!! Hey she is a Girl!! Also since girls do it different then boys the motor will be on it's side!! :rocknana:
Yeah I know. Say all you want. This will be a long winter. But Josie will have one sweet ride. I may have to build me a new FX too with the lay down Briggs in it.
There will be lots of Up dates to the work I do to an OHV single too this winter.
But the big thing from me is watch my site. All the parts Randy has picked up I will be selling too. Yes not only a motor guy but a parts guy.
Azusa, Digatron, BTS and SSOOOO many more.
So go ahead and chat about your special this and secret that. I got to go and do something that is real.
Later
Don
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: birdman_express on November 08, 2006, 03:50:38 pm
Yep.... the Japanese said after bombing the US, "I believe we have awoke the sleeping giant".


hahahahhahaahaha   :bash:


 :maxevil:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 08, 2006, 04:56:38 pm
That's Don for you....All work and seriousness..and "Bad to the Bone"...

Just like his motors...


Be seeing you at the Track... Al...!!  :ninja:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Don Gienger on November 08, 2006, 06:10:18 pm
 :woo:
What?? I am not funny??? :badgrin:
I am the laugh of town!!!
I can make jokes like the rest of them.
George is MY Hero too!!
I mean just cause you guys go to the restarant and they bring you your food don't mean the guy cookin it up and funny!!! Just cuz you don't see him doesn't mean he is not funny!!!
I can Yuck It Up with the best!!!
Just because I have not been out racing and no one remembers me don't mean I am not funny.
Cause I am funny Cause I know Funny!!!

 :3gears:

I run a Peerless 3 speed and that is what my burn outs look like.
George things I am funny for running one.
So HA HA I am funny!!!
Who else you know that came out of the Womb with a Golden Wrench in his hand? Who do you know that has some sort of Freaky Ability to make some Cast Aluminum run fast and strong??
That's funny right there and I Don't care who you are!!! :dance:

I am here all week!!!

Don
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 08, 2006, 06:16:33 pm
That's pretty Funny...

Your "Super Suit" is in the Mail...!!!   :ninja:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Don Gienger on November 08, 2006, 07:22:43 pm
 :oops:
Now I need a Suit?? :confused:
 :doh:
No Way!! I am not that kind of guy!!   :dancing:

Just do this for me. Don't order other peoples parts. MCP?
I have my own front ends now and a host of parts now too.
I am an Azusa Engineering dealer and yes even a Digatron Dealer.
Mower to come!!!
Don :wow:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: DarkNyte on November 08, 2006, 07:30:53 pm
Wait Now Don....You mean i got to buy more parts???Aww man..I cant afford to send you a hero suit i will call you soon enough...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: mowdak1 on November 08, 2006, 08:53:25 pm
I already sent him his super hero suit but he won't let me post pictures of him wearing it on the net!

Right Lee!

Maybe if we put yours up Don, we could get George to model his for us?!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: LVine2001 on November 09, 2006, 12:00:22 pm
I donnnnwwwwwaaannnnnaaa seee that. :freak:

I think I have a picture of Don somewhere here in my wallet....
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 09, 2006, 12:59:17 pm
Just do this for me. Don't order other peoples parts. MCP?
I have my own front ends now and a host of parts now too.
I am an Azusa Engineering dealer and yes even a Digatron Dealer.
Mower to come!!!
Don :wow:

Well Don, you know I got a big chunk of change with your name on it...(http://www.subvertcentral.com/forum/images/smiles/:censored:.gif)

Problem is I'm into this "instant gratification" thing...and needed some parts to get started...

Speaking of which, I'm still in the need of some tires and wheels...Those QRC/Burris are looking nice..:thumbsup:..

In the meantime, you know those front tires we were talking about..?

I got the pic, but can't read the tape measure, and if you seen the post (bottom page 3)...I need a definite measurement on the front tire height (or tire/wheels) to set ride height...

Can you get me a measurement..? are they a "true 11" or run taller or shorter..?
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: allen minaker on November 09, 2006, 01:40:26 pm
Be seeing you at the Track... Al...!! 

I thought that NINJA's were silent and stealth , that has to be the farthest thing from the truth for you . with the motor that im going to be getting the only part that will be like a ninja is that i won't be able to see ya , with you behind me and all . :woo: :banana: :pffftt: :rofl:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 09, 2006, 01:52:02 pm
When I come up to LAP YOU..!!!  :rofl:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: LVine2001 on November 09, 2006, 03:04:57 pm
 :wow: it's getting deep in here. I gotta go and find a shovel so I can dig a path out....
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Don Gienger on November 09, 2006, 04:41:37 pm
Hey Randy,
I am working on BTS. Waiting to hear from them and many others.
Now on the measurements they are 11 inch front tires. Center is 5.5 inches. But make it safe at 6 inch. That is all I do. Set the rear up the same. Even if you run 12 inch tires or not. This way you want to play and try 11's you won't be caught short or too low.
The disc I used in setting up my FX were much smaller. I used the above math. But when setting up my FX I ran 13 inch tires all the way around and gave myself room to run 11's.
I don't know 1 inch in ride height will hurt a guy like you and me. We are too big or tall and there is no fixing that.
My mower sits at 4.25 or so to frame. The tubed Deck is 3 inch.
One thing I did lately is replace the mesh in the running boards with 1/4 inch steel plates. Yeah I know added some 40 plus pounds to my FX. But with that weight at ground level made it run through the corners much better. At 300 lbs. I could tip my FX and it did not feel like my SP when I did it so it scared me.
Now the little bugger dirt tracks like crazy on grass and loose dirt. No more tipping. And with me at 226 now I can't wait to see how much more faster it is.
Oh that one thing should show you something. Drag racing Pro FX racers at 300 pounds and staying right there with them should tell you I have the Horse Power.  Sure I can't corner for poop but I can drag race down the straights just fine.
NOW though I am lots lighter. Now we need to see what happens.
Guys like Al  and Mike and others could run from me. But NOW that can't hide!!!! :lol:
Later
Don
PS As I work on my FX and Prepared chassis this winter I will have mower and mower new pictures. Stay tuned.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 09, 2006, 05:57:54 pm
:thumbsup:  You Da' Man... :ninja:

I can build, set up, and drive a chassis thru the corners...and with your HP to get me there...ol' "Al" ain't gonna have a chance... :badgrin:

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Threadingtheneedle.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Threadingtheneedle.jpg)

Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: nic_hayes on November 09, 2006, 07:15:03 pm
hey squidd, i'm starting a build almost just like yours and i was wondering what gears you were thinking about running from your engine to the ragb and then from your gearbox to your axle, i have know idea, thanks ;)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: George Herrin on November 09, 2006, 09:16:17 pm
Now Squidd I would think you would know better than to count your chickens before they have hatched... :nono:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Don Gienger on November 09, 2006, 09:36:58 pm
 ;) Oh G!!
It's only a couple of Cheeseheads.  :bash: Let them have their fun.
This way the rest of us can get work done!! :roll:

Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 09, 2006, 10:06:39 pm
Yeah, you guys have all the work to do...

All me and Al gotta do is drive them... ;)

Besides...he started it... :whistling:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 09, 2006, 10:28:01 pm
hey squidd, i'm starting a build almost just like yours and i was wondering what gears you were thinking about running from your engine to the ragb and then from your gearbox to your axle, i have know idea, thanks ;)

Well that's an interesting question....

I haven't quite decided yet, between a 1:1 ratio engine to RAGB or to underdrive it 1.5 or 2:1 and make up the difference in the sprockets...

Similar to the "overdriving" a 700 debate to reduce negative torque effect on output shaft (which I do) or to run closer to the lower max rpm ratings of the box, with a bigger drive sprocket...

Part of it will depend on the makeup of the box itself (although I plan on running an additional bearing on the output shaft to absorb stress....) I have been asking around and recieving differing opinions, but I think some of that is based on the RAGB they are/were running...

So I'm hoping to have a bit more input myself as I get to that part of the build...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: allen minaker on November 10, 2006, 04:32:31 am
When I come up to LAP YOU..!!! 

You have to learn to start befor you can lap anyone unless your talking abought getting a lap back !!!!!!!!!! :rocknana: :banana:

with all that set aside its going to be a great year , we have so many people that are going to be stepping up and some that are just going to be stepping out . i think we have like 6 or 8 mower people just in WI that are buliding new FX's and i think some of the BIG BOYS might have something to start thinking abought .
the only other thing i have to say is i hope that everybody is having fun and GOOD LUCK TO EVERYBODY !!!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 10, 2006, 07:26:00 am
Quote
You have to learn to start befor you can lap anyone unless your talking abought getting a lap back !!!!!!!!!! 
Either way...I'm still passing you... ;)    :badgrin:

All right enough of that bench racing...I haven't even built the dang thing yet...And your right George, right about the time I start counting chickens...Murphy comes in and steals the eggs, rolls the belt or unclips my master link.... (I know...been there Done that...)

Got a couple days vacation coming up here so I'm hoping to actually get back to the "Build" portion of this thread....before I travel off to the East coast this coming week...

Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: nic_hayes on November 10, 2006, 11:38:53 am
would you guys prefer to put the seat on an FX right above the axle or have the axle right behind the seat :confused:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: LVine2001 on November 10, 2006, 12:16:17 pm
If possable get the seat and your butt ahead of the axle a bit...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Don Gienger on November 10, 2006, 12:49:19 pm
To me ahead of the axle. This puts more pressure on the front axle.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: nic_hayes on November 10, 2006, 12:51:57 pm
thats kinda what i was thinking, thanks for the input :chris:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 10, 2006, 01:09:34 pm
Definetly ahead... That's one of the beautys of being able to strech this frame a tad...

Moving rear axel back and still giving me a bit of leg room...

On my AP I moved the seat forward for the weight transfer, handled well, but that really cramped my leg room...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: allen minaker on November 10, 2006, 01:40:26 pm
another thing that you should keep in mind is its not always the best to have the seat as low as you can get it . I know i had mine on the frame and had to move it to make the thing handel.

YOUR RIGHT TO SQUIDD !!!!! I'V been there and had alll the GOOD >:D luck a guy could ever have, that and the part abought all we have to do is drive the wild little beast after the MOTOR GUYS do all the HARD WORK .

Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 12, 2006, 12:30:21 am
OK... Got a little "work" done myself this weekend...

Starting with the front axle...I recut the center tube and lowered it to a more central mounting on the spindle flanges...with an approximate ride height and room to run either 11" or 12" tires (per Dons suggestion)

 I'll have to mount it to the frame slightly lower than the frame...but the way the tech guys measure is "to" the frame (not axle) so I'll still be good...Also gives me more room to get to upper adjustment bolts...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Axle.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Axle.jpg)

Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 12, 2006, 12:44:16 am
Next going to the frame..I'm choosing to "update" it with new materials and in doing so use some of the leeway provided by the rules...
Quote
.. 17) Mid-engine frames may be updated, but must retain the form of the original factory frame. Mid-engine frame updates must follow the following specifications:
.... a. 15 inch maximum width outside to outside of the frame (rails).
.... b. The frame may not exceed an overall length of 48 maximum.
.... c. 42 inch maximum wheelbase, center front to center rear axles.
.... d. Must be replaced with steel only. Round tubing is not allowed.
.... e. Hoods, grills and fenders must be original or retain the original form.

Original "form" of the frame is rectangular rails...so I followed that with a little stretch to 47 1/2" long and 14 7/8" wide, with 41 1/2" wheel base...basicaly moving the rear axle back...which in effect puts the seat forward of axle and leaves me some leg room...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Frame-1.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Frame-1.jpg)

As the rear axle is now "centered" in the frame rail ( to get ride height) I ran a loop over the carrier bracket to reinforce and tie together...

Here's a trick to keeping things in line...Clamping to a 3/8" plate... I used to have a 4'x8'x3/8" plate building table in my old shop, but it was a bit heavy to move...a simple 3/8" x 6 flat bar works just as well for this size layup...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/RearMount.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/RearMount.jpg)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: mightymowe on November 12, 2006, 11:44:02 pm
Thats a nice looking front axle are you going to run front brakes? Is the caster adjustable on it or do you just set it when you install it on your frame and just leave it alone?
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Don Gienger on November 13, 2006, 02:10:23 am
Now don't get me wrong. Please understand.
But that front end has King Pin Inclinnation. ( I am sure I did not spell that right :oops:)
But what is the reason to run it? Don't get me wrong I am a front end man for many years on many kinds of RC cars and racing vehicles. Ok cars and trucks too.
So tell me why?
So anyway I don't know how to insert pics of my front ends so Mowdak1 might have to do that for me.
But I don't build or run KPI. That is Karting design and we don't sit that low nor do we roll over to raise the rear tire to turn through the corner. We sit way to high on the mower and over the rear axle.
Plus most front end manufactures don't have the best Akeriman Steering. The only way to try to do the best is with a middle pivot point or part like I use in my mowers. This alows the wheels to run different angles to alow the vehicle to turn threw a corner without scuffing one tire.
Cars and trucks have it heck even RC cars and trucks have it. Karts have special steering design since the driver or main weight is 4 inches off the ground and sitting in the middle of the vehicle.
So I just ask why?
If you want to see what I do then e mail me at gteam@qwest.net and I will send you pictures of what I do.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: mowdak1 on November 13, 2006, 03:47:41 am
It's much easier to just copy the link to the slideshow and paste it here, then they can look at all of them.

http://www.g-team.us/Front_End/


Or, if you really want search engine benefit you could dress it all up and make it look like this...

G-Team Lawn Mower Racing F.A.S.T. Front End (http://www.g-team.us/Front_End/)


Yeah I know, you build the mowers, I'll do the web goodies!!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: George Herrin on November 13, 2006, 07:24:53 am
http://www.heymow.com/index.php/topic,425.0.html (http://www.heymow.com/index.php/topic,425.0.html)
Read this if you still have questions let me know. Its all a personal preferance for different reasons. Ex. You like big valves in a 12/31 build. I don't. Both seem to run great with their own advantages and disadvantages depending on personal preferance. Same with the front end I drove yours and personally don't like it as much as mine. No I am not saying it isn't good or bad its simply different and I don't like the way it feels. Again Personal preferance thats what makes the world go round... If we all ran the same thing or all did the same thing it wouldn't be any fun.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: mowdak1 on November 13, 2006, 07:45:11 am
If we all ran the same thing or all did the same thing it wouldn't be any fun.


Sure it would, and we could call it IMOW!! :lol:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: mightymowe on November 13, 2006, 08:13:09 am
there is a difference between castor and king pin inclination and I see that some of Dons front ends have a bit of adjustment for the castor(the slotted hole in the top) but that is probably for fine tuning.Do you mount your axle with some positive castor in the first place and use the slots to adjust slightly more or less.
As far as king pin inclination I find that with wide tires the pot holes and stuff dont have as much leverage on the steering wheel because the pivot point is moved closer to the centre of the tire(less driver fatigue)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: George Herrin on November 13, 2006, 08:50:54 am
Quote
As far as king pin inclination I find that with wide tires the pot holes and stuff dont have as much leverage on the steering wheel because the pivot point is moved closer to the centre of the tire(less driver fatigue)

Very good way of describing it. It keeps more tire patch on the ground all the time. And the EC axles has the caster adjustment with the slots also. On an mtd chassis I mount it using the caster the axle provides then fine tune with axle adjustments. Which is none. I like that setup. I did try less castor in the left side this weekend just experimenting. Was a small adjustment did not notice that much of difference. In the middle of the corner (apex) it seemed to pivot just a bit better but the track was extremly slick so it could have been more throttle response too.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 13, 2006, 09:49:29 am
Here's my understanding of the steering geometry and it's differences...The "Why"...
 (12 years ASE Certified Mechanic including front ends, 7 years stock car builder/driver, 5 years RC car track owner/driver/Hobby Shop owner)

With with no kingpin inclination and 10* or so Castor, the inner tire spindle will travel "down" as it turn in, and the outer tire will travel "up" as it turns out....effectively giving us the cross weight transfer and to pick up inner rear tire Don says we don't need...?? This change of axle angle also adds negative camber to inner tire and positive camber to outer tire (tire angle in relationship to track surface) on a narrow tire set up (AP) this is good as it allows the tire to "roll" onto its tread surface as sidewalls flex....

With the KP inclination and 0* (or very little) initial Castor, pitch inclination is introduced on both the in swing and the outswing...giving less of that cross transfer twist and keeping both tires on more of an even "plane" in relationship to rear axle...Also set with minimal (but some) initial Castor, induced camber changes will be less... on a wider tire setup (FX) this will keep more of the tire patch in contact with track surface...

With a vertical kingpin (relatively) the pivot point to hub face distance is greater, causing the tire/wheel to travel further forward and back in its arc of travel as you turn...this also applies additional "leverage" working against the steering linkage both input and feedback...but also "triangulates" your frame/lengthens wheel base on outer side...

With base of KP pointed toward hub face, the effective pivot point to hub face distance, wheel arc (and leverage) is reduced, as well as the change in wheel base length from side to side...

So "technically" the EC with KPI should hold the tires flatter to the racing surface (less camber induction), introduce "less" of the axle plane twist (frame twist), have a tighter pivot Arc (wheel base change/triangulation), and have a "self snubbing" effect to track surface "input" (less armstrong leverage required)...

I have one of each styles sitting here in my shop and can confirm visual range of motion and combined Castor/camber/pitch changes observed...

Is one better than the other...??  I'm gonna say NO...they each have a place on "different" types of setups/class style...and depending on the "rest" of your setup, tire wheel choice, frame construction and driving style BOTH have a place in part of a total chassis package.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 13, 2006, 10:18:49 am
Thats a nice looking front axle are you going to run front brakes? Is the caster adjustable on it or do you just set it when you install it on your frame and just leave it alone?

Measured and set for Hegar front brake setup...

Castor, camber, wheel track and ride height all adjustable on spindle setup, some "initial" caster could be set when building axle, but this particular setup is minimal...see explanation above....
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Don Gienger on November 13, 2006, 11:18:49 am
While this whole sport is filled with options like big valve and small valve and front ends to work on this and not on that I do too sell options.
I don't like big valve 31's but everyone ask so I sell. Same goes with front ends. While Randy and George have explained tons of reason how front ends work and why that EC front end is the cat's meow there is lots that front end don't do.
While you turn the wheel one way and you have the correct caster and camber you loose all that when the wheel moves forward in an attemt to unload the rear tire. Pick up a Karting Tech book and this shows you all exactly what G and R are talking about.
What I tend to ague is this. We race mowers and not Karts. Mowers the tire is unloaded simpley because the driver is high on the vehicle and using tire pressures will get the mower to roll over and unload the rear tire. KP will tip the mower and may help but it is taking pressure off the front end where you need it the most.
G you drove a mower of mine the paint was not even dry on. You drove a mower that would not turn at the TN races I showed up for. You drove a mower that as soon as I got home I changed completely.
While KP will be fought forever so I will say no more about it the real fight might be Ackreman steering.
All four tires go through a corner at four different radiuses. To better point the tires you will need a center pivot of some kind versus the one link method.
Finally yes my front end just gives everyone more options. My front end goes in and you can simpley weld it in if you front end has some angle to it like an MTD or add some if you want. It has up to 10 degrees caster. You can widen it for what ever width you would like. Camber you can go crazy on.
But the truth is this. I will put them on my mowers for show and sell. But I don't hardly ever adjust and what is on my mowers is all I need. But unless you race the same track every weekend you really don't need all that adjustment since you won't have the time to figure out the ever changing track.
But again no matter what or how I just offer another idea.
For front end brakes BTS has some cool parts. I hope to know soon if I am the only lawn mower dealer they will have. Check out www.btsbrakes.com
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: George Herrin on November 13, 2006, 11:35:48 am
Mutually agreed as usual all a matter of preferance. Like fords and Chevys and dodges. Takes all kinds.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Don Gienger on November 13, 2006, 11:42:39 am
 :woo:
Yes Exactly.
Most Machanics don't have just one 9/16 wrench. They have more then one screw driver too. Why? Options. I don't use the same wrenches George uses and he don't like mine.
NO Ill will here just we have what works for us going on and that is that.
One more thing. While folks seem to think George and I have some beef with each other or whatever let me say this. As far as I know we are still the best of friends and have no ill will torwards one another. So stop the rumors!!!   :bash:
George likes it his way and mine my way. Neither are wrong. But all of you viewing this have to make a choice and mow with it.
Good Luck.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: George Herrin on November 13, 2006, 11:47:14 am
AMEN
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 13, 2006, 11:48:44 am
Quote
Is one better than the other...??  I'm gonna say NO...they each have a place on "different" types of setups/class style...and depending on the "rest" of your setup, tire wheel choice, frame construction and driving style BOTH have a place in part of a total chassis package.
 

I guess we all agree then....

Quote
Like fords and Chevys and dodges

Except for that part..everyone knows Chevys rule... :lol:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: George Herrin on November 13, 2006, 11:53:45 am
Nope its gotta be a dodge or ain't worth having.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 13, 2006, 02:32:47 pm
Oh wise ones...

I have a question here...

Was getting ready to set motor mount(s) in frame and was checking ride height of MC clutch in order to line up with RAGB...

After sliding it on the crank, to where the end bolt fits, I see it's hanging a little low for my preference...??

At 4 1/2" even with a 2" frame rail...the chain/belt drive and tensioner will be hanging down within 2" or so of dirt ...and 2 1/4" below frame...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Shaft.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Shaft.jpg)

Question is...do I have the wrong clutch...?? (Noram Mini Cup for 1" mount)

Or can I cut 1 1/4" off end of crank, redrill and tap end bolt and tuck clutch up higher into frame...?

If I do so will that affect getting the crank balanced...IE: can I do it now or wait until after it's balanced...??

Not sure I want to run it "as is"...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: George Herrin on November 13, 2006, 03:49:20 pm
Quote
do I have the wrong clutch...?? (Noram Mini Cup for 1" mount)
yes and no. They make one that can be mounted inboard or out board. I had the one you had milled sprocket off tigged a pulley on it and ran a belt instead of chain. One engine I cut the crank. After blowing it the next I made some spacers and raisded the motor, keep in mind not near as much as you only 3/8" I was using a mtd chassis. Can you cut the crank yes you can what ever you do do it before you balance it. I have cut many and had no problems at all.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 13, 2006, 04:07:16 pm
Cool...I'm cutting it...Didn't want to have to raise the engine that high...

At least that way most of the clutch will be up in the frame rails and the rest protected by the running board/mower deck ...and my adjuster won't be hanging out in the "underbreeze"...

Didn't realize they made an in and an out clutch...next one will be different...:thumbsup:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Don Gienger on November 13, 2006, 06:01:40 pm
I use the Star clutch from American power sports. Yep big $$$ but it is made for 20 hp or more. Bandeloros use them and other cars use them too.
You have to watch out. If it has a stamped drum and not machined they are not very good.
The Star clutch only goes on one way. Then for the rest of the shaft sticking out on mine I just have one spacer. It does stick down a bit and you can see it on my pictures but I have a belly shield........for my mower!!! :P
There are several companies that show clutches in their catalogs that I am filling out so I can get dealer status with them. More on that later
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 13, 2006, 06:30:12 pm
I've seen the pics, and the belly pan... and that's what prompted the question...

May just be the angle of the photos, but looks like your clutch bell is way up near the bottom of of engine case...

I do see the end bolt...so if thats a standard shaft engine.. it's sitting lower than it looks...

You OK with me cutting the end of the crank...?
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Don Gienger on November 13, 2006, 09:13:51 pm
I have always thought of cutting the crank or setting it up special in some way. But then if I have to build another motor I have to do the same to it.
What if I am at a track and don't have my special spare there???   :doh:
That is why I leave it alone. You can cut I don't care but the motor at the top of the frame rails that puts the 3 1/2 inch crank just a hair low. But you have 4 inches from the bottom of the frame to the ground.
Like mine I took 1.5 tubing for my deck and that hangs down to protect my crank.
I have race in ruts and deep ones. Never hurting the crank or clutch.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 13, 2006, 09:43:52 pm
Been kinda pondering that same scenario (special piece's) as I go along...But then I've been known to be short on "generic" spares from time to time too...(like a belt) :doh:

Got the motor mounts made, been slideing them forward and back working on placement with steering and hood...and will look it over and measure things a couple more times before I commit...one way or the other...

Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: allen minaker on November 14, 2006, 01:03:05 am
with the steering are you planning on using the stock setup that was on the MOWchine ??
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 14, 2006, 01:45:28 am
Nope, all new...Gonna have full bearing vertical shaft in front with matched Ackerman and repositioned wheel on hood (also with bearings), on account of I got long arms...

Didn't take pics today, will have some up tomorrow (I hope) but I lowered and raked the hood and mounted the hood "loops"... Just gotta make sure I have room to get the motor in and out of there before I weld everything up.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: birdman_express on November 14, 2006, 07:39:16 am
Quote from: Squidd
Just gotta make sure I have room to get the motor in and out of there before I weld everything up.

That is a good point to make Randy, these things(engines) are not permanant, and you need room to work, in a compact environment as possible.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 14, 2006, 11:15:20 am
Yeah it is and this one's gonna be tight with the steering going across the top and down the front...

On my AP, I figured I'd pull the hood and have room to manuver...But that turned out to be more trouble than it was worth...

So on that one I had to pull the blower housing and flywheel to "lift, twist, spin, lift and twist again" to get it out the side...


And that's a lot smaller motor... :omg:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 14, 2006, 12:37:36 pm
This one, the front clip will be {easily} removable...

Just gotta rig up a quick disconnect for the steering wheel...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: IBuiltmine-o1oo on November 14, 2006, 10:38:42 pm
Front axle will be based off EC Dist. front spindles.. (these things are "smooooth" George):twothumbsup:

Had George cut the keyway for Hegar front brakes (which will be coming later in the build) the sealed bearings are glass smooth and the adjustabilty  for caster, camber, and ride height will be much appreciated (and used)..

Also had the steering arms left loose so I can place them where needed after axle is located...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/ECFront.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/ECFront.jpg)

I used the ACME "Fun Cart" type spindles on my AP and even after refitting with brass bushings, grease zerks, and reinforcing the arms...there is no comparison..

These are going to  be "WAY" better, smoother and hold ajustment "tighter"...Definetly worth the money...:thumbsup:



how do you make these? I have the heim joints, and bolts, but id like to know what bearings you use on the king pin??
Do you have an exploded view of it?
Id apreciate it!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Don Gienger on November 15, 2006, 12:47:13 am
On the Hegar brakes. This just my two cents so don't shoot!!
I don't use the Keyway method for holding the caliper. I weld a 5/8 stopping post on the spindle. The curve of the housing rest up against it. This way I don't weaken the spindle.
Also check out www.btsbrakes.com they took Hegar brakes one step farther.
I hope to hear back from BTS soon about selling their stuff.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 15, 2006, 12:55:18 am
They are pretty...I'll give you that...:thumbsup:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: George Herrin on November 15, 2006, 01:59:44 am
 the key doesn't hurt the strength. Trust me I have flip end over end even clip a 4 inch high curb on pavement at 62mph and bent nothing except a 1/2 heim joint. But if using a APS spindle. yea you probably will bend it they bend regardless just a rough track will bend them.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: money89tractors on November 16, 2006, 09:55:37 pm
hey somethin about the mid engine mowers, i have a huffy caprise i was thing about putting an 18 hp twin briggs on, will the thing even fit between the frame rails (and i know someones gunna say "set it on there and find out" so imma add this...)..i dont have the 18 yet so i thought i would get some imput on it  :D
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: allen minaker on November 17, 2006, 03:04:25 am
If your determend enough it will fit but buy looking at all the mid-engine mowers i have its going to be real tight !!!! I mean real tight , I have a flat head Briggs on a frame same as Squidd's in this post and its tight !!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 17, 2006, 08:39:06 am
That's basicly it...you might be able to make it fit...Actually, you can make just about anything fit anything with enough determination, but do you want to...?

Power to weight ratio will be a little off...(actually torque to handling) as well as physical size constraints...

On the other hand the "mid engine" layout (sized correctly) is probably the better handling of the chasis available..

There's a reason they are banned from the B/P C/P S/P and Imow class's....( I think they are afraid of them...) >:D
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Robert Sparbel on November 17, 2006, 08:50:58 am
Al is right! if you want something in there bad enough you can get it there. Lord knows I have put some big motors where they don't belong in my days  >:D

But if you are building for the USLMRA FX class rules the 18 briggs you want to use won't work as they only allow maximum engine displacement of 465cc single cylinder 4 cycle.

If you are building to another set of rules that allows it or just for fun I say go for it! but hang on  :3gears:

Oh and if you do go for the 18briggs please post some pics for all to see...

Good luck, be safe and have fun.


Robert Sparbel
#938 IMOW #938 FX
R&T Racing Hudson WI
2006 WILMRA Rookie of the Year

Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Robert Sparbel on November 17, 2006, 08:58:57 am
oop's sorry squidd I didn't mean to skip over ya!

It looks like we were posting about the same time.

Looks like we all agree anyhow  8)


Robert Sparbel
#938 IMOW #938 FX
R&T Racing Hudson WI
2006 WILMRA Rookie of the Year
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: George Herrin on November 17, 2006, 09:16:44 am
Not afraid  they worried some one would get hurt with so much motor on so little chassis.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: matt25001149 on November 17, 2006, 02:51:52 pm
another reason i wont put my 22hp kohler on my little lawnflite ;)

 im only 18 19 in a week i kinda wanna make it till then :rofl: im sure it would be lotsa fun tho  :woo:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: George Herrin on November 17, 2006, 02:57:52 pm
I rode a huffy as an FX for two years. The thing is so short that while one can be made to handle quit well you must have reflexes faster than a cat and be reading ahead of the mower ALL the time. The short chassis makes things happen very quickly you don't have time to think what do I do now if you do you will find yourself being picked up and everyone saying HEY you OK. Been there done that too. I built my 05 FX using a full size MTD chassis and it was FUN easy to drive very forgiving and never finished out of the top 5 in every race it ever finished. Locally or Nationally.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: nic_hayes on November 19, 2006, 03:34:18 pm
hey squidd, what size of tubing did you use for your frame, i started out with some inch and a half square and it just looks to big, the stuff your using looks a lot beter and is probably lighter ;)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: money89tractors on November 20, 2006, 06:55:35 am
haha thanks for the input guys, makes me really wanna do it now, i rode the little huffy once when it had the 8hp on it and we HAD to add a wheelie bar so i can only imagine with the 18.

TALK ABOUT WHEELIES NOW WOOHOO! lol

when i thought up the idea, the first thing that came to mind was "im gunna be straddlen that thing" and the next thing was "SCATTER SHEILD!" lol. this will just be a play toy for me, as the rules say i cant have a 18 on a mid engine lol

I will have pictures posted when i begin work on it, i wont be doing the whole weld the frame up and stuff, just a before and after of the engine, and if im lucky a short video.

-Phil
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 20, 2006, 09:27:14 am
hey squidd, what size of tubing did you use for your frame, i started out with some inch and a half square and it just looks to big, the stuff your using looks a lot beter and is probably lighter ;)
1"X2" thinwall 14 ga. or .102" for frame and 1"x2" heavier wall 9 ga. or .127" for front axle...then a 1"x1" 14 ga for the loop over the rear axle..

On it's own it would be a little thin and weak for a bare frame such as this, but the weiight savings allows me to add a few brace points off seat mount and front motor/hood loop (also of thinwall tubing) so the end result will be a very stiff no flex chassis with a total lighter weight than the stock chassis had...

I'm gonna play around out in the garage today (been out of town most of the week) so hope to get a few pics up tonight...

I'll do some cross sections of the different tubings used in construction...

Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Don Gienger on November 20, 2006, 10:05:45 am
Well this is totally against the grain but here is what I am going to do when building an FX
#1 I will use 1x2 tubing and it will be .125 thick.
Why so heavy? Well I want the weight and I want the weight down on the ground. Lowers my center of gravity. I found that out on my FX that I run now. My FX now is light and lean and all that. But I found it was very tippy. Sure it did not help that I weighed 300 pounds. The flex I do not like too.
I added some 50 pounds to my FX and raced the same Pros in the USLMRA and was not any slower. But I was faster in the corners.
#2 The reason here is the flex you get from light weight frames. Over time my FX is all out of shape. It has shifted around and if you look at it real close I can point out some weird things.
I will be building an FX in the next few days. I will have pictures on how I do an FX. And in my DVD I will explain why.
Again just my 2 cents.
Don't shoot me. :woo:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: nic_hayes on November 20, 2006, 12:04:35 pm
Thanks for all the help guys, this is my first fx build and i wanna get it right. :D
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 20, 2006, 12:55:45 pm
There are two ways to gain stability...

Mass...(which generally infers weight) and Leverage (or triangulation)...

I'm going for the lighter weight with leveraged bracing made discrete by following the "form" of the original chasis...(ever see those 500lb weights held up by "toothpick" bridging..??) The "trick" is to not put any more toothpicks in than absolutly neccessary...

Center of gravity "effect" (on this ride) will be dictated by lowering of components (including driver) and by leveraging "Roll Center"...(which I think has more affect on handling)

Good thing there is more than one way to skin a cat (or build an F/X)...

Otherwise we'd all be driveing copycat MTDs... :badgrin:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 20, 2006, 07:56:58 pm
Here's a pick of the thin wall and thick wall tubing...
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/DSC00006.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/DSC00006.jpg)

You can see just by relative mass and size...that the thin wall even with a secondary bracing/cage will come in lighter than a single run of the heavier wall...

I am NOT taking shots at Don, but I'd sure like to compare relative weights of bare frame chassis's when we're done...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: nic_hayes on November 20, 2006, 08:06:15 pm
i think your right squidd, i'm sure the thick wall would work well but the thin wall is just that much lighter. ;)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Don Gienger on November 20, 2006, 10:04:08 pm
 :woo:
While I won't even go there I am talking something different in a way.
I mean I know you are not taking shots at me or my ideas. But Center of Gravity is what I am talking about.
Much like the fin out the bottom of a sail boat. It keeps it from tipping. So does the weight down low on a mower.
My First stratch built FX is mostly Chrome Molly. While it is made to flex and rebound time after time I can show you that is WAY off now. I mean it is all move around.
For one the axle on my FX is pushed out the left side of the mower a 1/8 a year. Double axle locks and all. Things move. The forces on an FX are way different then other mowers.
But all I am talking about is putting weight down low. Low as you can go.
Rocky was over today and we talked about this very thing. The mower I am building for Josie will have the lowest Center of Gravity I have ever seen. The frame rails and motor will be WAY below the center of the tires.
On Wednesday when I get this thing on wheels for my DVD on chassis I will be able to take pictures.
I am sorry but it is very hard for me to explain what I am talking about here.
Hope this helps.
Don
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: nic_hayes on November 20, 2006, 10:41:43 pm
hey don, i have nothing against any thing you say, i'm just on a very tight motor budget so i'm trying to make this thing as light as possible. as far as the center of gravety i can see exacly what your saying. in fact my frame will be a little below the center of the wheel. but thanks for the comments don, if it wernt for you guys alot of us wouldnt have a clue :rockon:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Don Gienger on November 20, 2006, 10:58:59 pm
 :woo:
Hey Nic,
Sucking up to the Motor Guy is a good thing. Christmas is coming soon!!!! :dance:
Weight is an issue with all classes of mowers. But sometimes a little heavy never hurts.
It was funny to see high powered little fast racers spin out in the corner from a lack of traction due to them being to lite.
Ten or twenty pounds will not kill your racer.
My first FX had tons of frame work and all light weight. New ones will have very little steal above the frame and below the steering wheel. The motor will be lower then anything you have ever seen.
Later
Don 8)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: DarkNyte on November 20, 2006, 11:03:20 pm
Well does it work like this Don???The more you spend with g-team through the year the mower you get at christmas??? :lol: I should get a little  :P
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Don Gienger on November 20, 2006, 11:08:46 pm
 :woo:
Well I have to check my Naughty and Nice list. Then I check and see what you did buy this year.
Then since I live so close to the big guy up North I can put a good word in!!! :lol:
But we will see what will happen. There is still time to buy a motor or racing mower!!!! :P
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: DarkNyte on November 20, 2006, 11:28:24 pm
I have your motor...Proven Winner..Got everyone down here mad... :badgrin:
BTW this is chris from Alabama...Great work on the carb...The hat is awesome I wear it everyday...If I had the money I would have me one of those twins but we will see maybe next christmas..
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: nic_hayes on November 20, 2006, 11:59:51 pm
well don we'll see what happens over the winter, i may have to buy some more parts from you :rockwoot:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: TheMowinCuban on November 21, 2006, 12:02:12 am
i had a look of that G-force V-twin intek engine, and i COULD NOT get my eyes off of it! man, i wish i had money....currently i have no money to my name. thats what not having a job and getting no allowance does to ya i guess.  :(
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: mowdak1 on November 21, 2006, 06:11:38 am
Don't you guys have yards out there? You could always mow grass, ya know! Gotta be someone around there has a yard, and if you expressed an incentive to go to work and earn enough money to pay for your own racing ventures, dad might even spring for a lawn mower and a weedeater. And, if you do a good job for a reasonable rate, word spreads, and pretty soon you will have more mower business than you know what to do with.

Here in town we have a kid, started mowing 2 years ago. First year he established clientele, last year he got his drivers license so the folks didn't have to haul him everywhere anymore, but he's mowing 3 - 4 yards a day, 4 days a week, 5 days when it rained regularly. He doesn't have to drive but 2 miles to work, he picked up a good used mower, and a mower trailer for next to nothing, maintains it all himself, so really all he has in the business is gas, oil, time, weed wacker stringer and the occasional oil change and set of blades. He's charging $20 - $30/yard thus he's averaging $300 - $400 (or more) a week, working only 25 - 30 hours a week. And, he's the cheaper of the two that do that around here!

Hang an ad on the bulletin board at the local grocery store or coffee shop. If you have an electronic bulletin board in the community post an ad on there, seek out all the little old ladies in the neighborhood that need their grass mowed, the guys that are too busy to mess with it themselves, and do a good job! You'll have more business than you know what to do with unless you live in one of the sub-divisions where there are no yards!    
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 21, 2006, 07:10:05 am
What...??? Are you nuts ...? WORK for a living..??!!??

Especially driving around all day on a lawn mower...next thing you know you have to work on them and maintain them...Get all greasy and work with stinky motors??? Yuck..!!!

And worse yet... People will have you hauling all kinds of Crap from their yards... cleaning out he garage and barn and all that....Probably make you take their old mowers with you since they have a "mowing service" now...Next thing you know your yard is full of all these old lawnmowers and parts you've been picking up...

Probably have to start an E-Bay account just to get "Rid" of all the antiques and useable stuff people "make" you haul out just cause you show up with a trailer...

I don't know..probably easier just to ask the parents for some money from time to time...Heck they have a lot of it...look at all the bills they pay...



Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Don Gienger on November 21, 2006, 11:54:52 am
Yeah I am with Randy. I am moving home and will live with my Mom. She cooks and cleans for me and gives me less crap about it then my Wife. :oops:
And Yeah look at me. I cleaned out yard and some guys wanted to go faster on their mowers of all things and now I build racing mower motors. :lol:
It's crazy!!!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: TheMowinCuban on November 21, 2006, 03:03:25 pm
haha thanks rocky! here i am all involved in getting money on building up my LAWN MOWER and i forgot about LAWN MOWING as a job!! lol
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: mowdak1 on November 21, 2006, 03:25:05 pm
It's not necessarily a promising career, although some do very well at it. I know folks that truly enjoy mowing yards, and they do make a living, or at least make a good side income from it. It is a great choice for an aspiring young guy like yourself that's looking for a few bucks to work on his racing mowchine however.

Find yourself a little trailer to hook behind the rider, toss the weedeater and push mower in there for the tight spots, gas cans, whatever else you might need. It'll come in handy for picking up around the yards as well.

And, don't rule out shoveling sidewalks, blowing snow, and such during the winter. If you have any elderly neighbors, they probably have a snow blower and you could use their blower to clean the walk in many cases. There's lots you can do around the neighborhood! You just have to get the word out that you're interested in working, and prove to be industrious!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Chris on November 21, 2006, 05:11:16 pm
And, don't rule out shoveling sidewalks, blowing snow, and such during the winter. If you have any elderly neighbors, they probably have a snow blower and you could use their blower to clean the walk in many cases.

Speaking of such, I got a pretty nice (older) snowblower given to me because it didn't run. Got it running and it goes good. I'm considering modding it so it'll go right on the front of the toro >:D
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: money89tractors on November 21, 2006, 06:46:42 pm
thats the way to do it chris, and theres the weight you need in the front, might have to use some wheel weights on the rear or somethin, it might be too heavy and just make ya spin...
-Phil
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 21, 2006, 06:55:05 pm
Well with the 19 twin on the back, I don't think he'll have a problem there...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 21, 2006, 09:13:59 pm
Speaking of weight...

Weight is weight and a lighter chassis "should" accelerate quicker, respond sharper and handle better than a heavy chassis..That's just basic laws of enertia...

I think Don was on the right track with his "first" mowchine....light and stiff...and that's what I modeled my F/X after...

A couple pounds above or below the wheel line is not going to make that much difference... It's the "Nut" behind the wheel that weighs the most and will have the greatest effect on handling and center of gravity...

Lower him and things won't be so "tippy"..

At least that's the basic design premise of my new ride.. longer and lower than my AP, I'm getting "my" 200 or so pounds 4"-6" lower and spread out and again, that will have a greater effect than lowering an 60lb engine 2"...although every little bit helps...Lowering components, battery, tranny, gas tank (and engine) a couple inchs all helps in lowering C/G..

This is a basic layout of the chassis stiffing frame work I'm working toward...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/UpperBracing.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/UpperBracing.jpg)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 21, 2006, 09:20:13 pm
This is what it looks like so far...
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/DSC00007.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/DSC00007.jpg)

Don't have all the gusseting in yet, but total weight of "All" the tubing above the frame line is just over 5 lbs.
Weight savings of the thin wall vs. thick is a little over 10 lbs for a total of 4-5lbs...Really not a lot of difference there, but twist should be greatly reduced...


Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: money89tractors on November 21, 2006, 09:28:47 pm
6 pounds?!?!?! :omg: thats crazy, its gunna be ALL engine, and i thought puttin a twin on that little midengine would be mean,wow!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 21, 2006, 09:36:12 pm
Here's a little trick I "stole" from Don's last FX layout...

A built in workstand...

Keeps rear tires off ground and will be stable even with engine in...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Stand.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Stand.jpg)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 21, 2006, 09:46:17 pm
6 pounds?!?!?! :omg: thats crazy, its gunna be ALL engine, and i thought puttin a twin on that little midengine would be mean,wow!
It's at 31 lbs now (as shown above) goal is to be right at (or under) 150 ready to run....we'll see...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: money89tractors on November 21, 2006, 10:18:28 pm
still tho, thats like NOTHING.!

-Phil
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: allen minaker on November 22, 2006, 12:58:18 pm
I'm not sure of this at all Squidd but i dont think that it will be that light , like i said i'm not sure of this but mine is just over 200 , 212 to be exact and for you to lose another 60 lbs is going to be hard from what i saw with my build .

Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 22, 2006, 05:24:18 pm
OK...Just went out and weighed my AP...217 !!!

That's heavier than I thought it was, but there is a lot of steel in that deck and motor plate...
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/MowerBuildUp046.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/MowerBuildUp046.jpg)

May have to revise my projected finish weight goal to 195-200 for the FX... I'm thinking that's more realistic and still do able...

I know the chassis will be considerably lighter...but then the motor is heavier... should be close...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Don Gienger on November 23, 2006, 12:43:15 am
Yeah I would have to guess you will weigh in at 200 to 240.
My mower as you seen it weighed in at 240 when done. That is with mess in the running board area and all the supper thin Moly I used.
That is with a lightend cast wheel on the motor and the syncro still in place.
But Josie's mower with the motor on the side and no right angle gear box and lots of other changes should and could be lighter then you think.
On my FX I added 40 plus pounds and still chased Mike Miller and others the same way. I can't say 40 to 50 will kill a guy if the weight is in the right spots.
Now for me loosing 80 pounds now that will be killer :woo:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: allen minaker on November 23, 2006, 01:02:10 am
that is for sure Don , buy the way you did look good last time i saw you .
like i said befor Squidd not saying you cant get it that light but it will be hard to do and still have it as stiff as you would like .
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 23, 2006, 08:58:45 am
Well then I'm just gonna have to loose another 25-30 lbs myself...

That's it No second helping of Turkey and Pie today.... :omg: :omg: :omg:

 :noplease: No Screw that...I'll start next week...

Nope, can't do that...Leftovers...Christmas cookies...Christmas Parties...Egg Nog...

Gonna have to wait till after the Holidays.... :D

Yeah, Yeah...That's It..!! Got my New Years resolution all set... ;)

(This going Light is gonna be Harder than I Thought..)    :lol:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Don Gienger on November 23, 2006, 11:13:38 am
 :woo:
Have some mower bird you Turkeys!!! While I am a looser you can all gain my weight and see what it does for you!!! :doh:
Hey you know I love you all and I hope you all have a Great Thanks Giving! :party:

Have a good day
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 23, 2006, 11:05:52 pm
And a Great Thanksgiving to you all as well..!!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 23, 2006, 11:12:31 pm
OK had a little turkey...had a little more turkey...took a nap...

Then went out in the garage and got a little accomplished...(most of my vacation has been spent "working" around the house and visiting people...Ughh... :doh:)

Putting bearings on the steering to maintain smoothness and feel in the wheel..

Using 5/8" sealed units...I wanted to keep the carriers small, light and yet strong...

1 1/2" schdual 40 pipe works well..a little touch with the die grinder and they slip snuggly in...

Cut a couple rings 1/2" thick and welded a  couple 3/4" washes to the bottom to form a "cup"....
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Cups.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Cups.jpg)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 23, 2006, 11:15:52 pm
Installed the bearings, lined them up with a 5/8" shaft and tacked them to the top cross bar and front of axle...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Gusset.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Gusset.jpg)

Then cut some angle gussets and welded them square and secure...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 23, 2006, 11:21:02 pm
Installed..

This is smooth turning , and yet "tight" (no slop)...I ran the stock "bushings" on the AP and even with added grease fittings and constant lube, they loosened up and toward the end of season there was a touch of "slop" forming...

These should hold true...and if they wear...the bearings are easily replaceable...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/installed.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/installed.jpg)

Ran out of wire just about here, so I didn't get much further on the ackerman plate or steering wheel mount, but it will be similar...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: money89tractors on November 23, 2006, 11:27:43 pm
looks great!! your doing a heck of a job with shoing how things should be done, your pictures are for the most part very inforative and whatever you dont understand from lookin at the picture you can figure out from your explanation of it, exsellent job,

-Phil
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 23, 2006, 11:57:58 pm
Thanks...I have just about as much fun here posting "show and tell" as I do out in the shop making this stuff up...

Although, this is not necessarily "how it should be done".. as much as "how I'm doing it"... You can tell from a couple pages back there has been discussion on "different" ways of doing things...and that's all good...

I may post something here that is just totally out of wack, and someone will come along with a "better" idea...I may use it or I may stick to my guns or I might change things up..

That's the beauty of a board like this...get a wealth of knowledge and interchange going for the benefit of all...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: money89tractors on November 24, 2006, 12:03:06 am
thats just how things should be. if its wasnt for ppl comin up with ideas that could possibly be better, and sometmes worst, where would we be? we sure wouldnt know as much as we do now.

-Phil
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: offroadwhatever8 on November 24, 2006, 07:38:39 pm
woooh, thats really good work, :drool: it looks like that mower came out of the factory like that
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Tom Fox on November 24, 2006, 09:12:26 pm
Between this build and George's....I learned a lot!!! Keep the info flowing!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Chris on November 24, 2006, 09:29:03 pm
That thing is going to be so awesome!!!!!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: jamie_guy3 on November 28, 2006, 08:38:57 pm
squidd i just got a clutch similare to yours wondering if i live my 3 speed peerless #516 or run a gear box withe my 13 inch tire in back wath should i do and if i get a gear box 1to1 wath should be my set up thanks
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 28, 2006, 08:47:24 pm
With the centrifigul clutch and 1:1 ratio RAGB....you will have less "drag" on the system than a clutch/belt/transmission will produce so you should be able to set for a final gear ratio "slightly" higher than we talked about...which in turn should give you a "slightly" faster top speed...all other things..(tire size and motor) being the same...

Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: jamie_guy3 on November 29, 2006, 06:16:20 am
with the clutch on the motor what should be the set up with the tranny i got to weld a pulley on it
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: jamie_guy3 on November 29, 2006, 06:17:39 am
40 on th rear should be good then
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 03, 2006, 07:37:39 pm
Got to play a little in the shop "finally"..

Worked on the steering...

Added EC spindle to axle...added a few holes to steering links and ackerman link to down rod...
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Steering.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Steering.jpg)

Hooked up tierods and checked lock to lock..

Good inswing ackerman add on..and the extra holes will allow fine tuning once I get 'er running...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 03, 2006, 07:44:36 pm
I've seen a couple posts asking about the tie rods so I thought I'd show how I do them...

9/16" rod (could use 1/2" but I have a bunch of this...)
3/8"x3/8" Heim joints- RH thread- Mc master Carr
3/8" fine thread jam nuts
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Parts.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Parts.jpg)

Nice thin about these Heims, I cut rod 2" less than "hole to hole" on steering links and they come out perfect length...

Find center an "punch" to keep drill from walking...I like to do a 3/16" pilot hole first to guide tap drill...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Centerdrill.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Centerdrill.jpg)

Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 03, 2006, 07:48:29 pm
Then redrill to proper size for tap (in this case "Q" bit) and tap 3/8" NF..

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Tap.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Tap.jpg)

Assemble with jam nuts and ready to install...Whole thing took maybe 20 minutes...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Tierods.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Tierods.jpg)

Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 03, 2006, 08:09:25 pm
Here's what it looks like from front... Steering up and tight to frame, not much to drag or catch on track...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_front.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/front.jpg)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 03, 2006, 08:12:36 pm
Built the RAGB mounts...lined up bottom gear with motor /clutch so set height.

Added second bearing to output shaft to help take up load fron drive sprocket.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_gearboxb.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/gearboxb.jpg)


(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Gearboxa.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Gearboxa.jpg)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: matt25001149 on December 03, 2006, 08:13:18 pm
whats with the plywood??
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 03, 2006, 08:16:01 pm
Plywood discs make it much easier to measure and set toe and camber than trying to find a consistant spot on a "rounded" tire...

Also quick and easy to check ride height and get accurate measurements on ackerman offset angles...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: matt25001149 on December 03, 2006, 08:16:48 pm
hmm good idea
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: mowdak1 on December 03, 2006, 08:24:48 pm
I saw that "linged" up gear up there, I was wondering if you were working in Danny's garage? :rofl:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: matt25001149 on December 03, 2006, 08:43:08 pm
hey squidd seeing that u are looking for a steering wheel for ur mower may i suggest this (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Grant-Lowrider-Chrome-Chain-Link-Steering-Wheel_W0QQitemZ270062010577QQihZ017QQcategoryZ33704QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem) one :D
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 03, 2006, 08:51:31 pm
:rofl: I haven't had one of those since my 65 Chevy..back in high school...

10" wheel...real trip to steer when the power steering goes out...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: matt25001149 on December 03, 2006, 08:52:49 pm
lmao well since its was a chevy i bet u had strong forearms :rofl:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 03, 2006, 08:56:02 pm
Actually...Im looking for a 15" wheel...three spoke ...flat or "0" setback...

Older Bolens or sprint car style...Anyone got one like that laying around...shoot me a PM..

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Dash003.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Dash003.jpg)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: nic_hayes on December 05, 2006, 06:57:13 pm
hey squidd, i got a few seat questions for ya, how high will it set and how far back from the front of your frame, thanks ;)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 05, 2006, 07:30:53 pm
"Final position" will be determined after I get my steering wheel and running boards set...so everything "fits" comfortably...

But in general I want to lower and center "my" mass (center of gravity) but to do so I am moving seat "back" and leaving it relatively high (10" above frame)  in order to get a forward lean...and have room to strech my legs...

On my AP I sat higher straighter and a bit more cramped (although it still felt comfortable) If you read thru that build I tweaked the running boards steering wheel and seat mount to get the most out of the room available.

Here I have a bit more room to "realign" myself and get a lower center of gravity...

A page or two back I mentioned moving a 200 lb driver 6" lower would have more effect on handling and stability than lowering a 60 lb motor 2" ...this is what I 'm shooting for..

Here is a real "cheesy" (wisconsin joke) drawing of the difference I'm refering to...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_COG.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/COG.jpg)

Red circle represents CofG...you can see it's lower and centered even with a higher seat than a standard "setting" with a lower seat..

I'm doing this because I'm long and tall.. But I know a shorter fat guy that had problems "tipping" because I think he sat too "tall" in the saddle... ;)



Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: offroadwhatever8 on December 05, 2006, 09:17:02 pm
found this on ebay randy, thought you may be interested.......


http://cgi.ebay.com/Bolens-1956-1962-Ride-a-Matic-Steering-Wheel_W0QQitemZ110062536502QQihZ001QQcategoryZ88437QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item110062536502
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 05, 2006, 09:25:18 pm
Appreciate the link...I got two on my watch list now...started looking at 14" and 16" stuff and it opened a whole bunch of possibility's...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_FlatSteeringWheel.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/FlatSteeringWheel.jpg)

(just don't bid against me...)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: savyxer on December 05, 2006, 10:58:35 pm
Here is what I am gunna use on my mower to go along with the gold and white paint. http://www.mooneyesusa.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=188_23_74&products_id=1310&osCsid=23147edd36eda47ba3b197e5fb3d1ff6 .Or I could just punk the one off my dads 50 chev but I think he would notice hahaha.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 09, 2006, 07:54:54 pm
Hopefully I'll win a bid on a wheel tomorrow (will update) and can complete upper part of steering...

In the meantime I hooked up the sprockets and drive chains and was able to position and mount the gas tank...

That allowed me to weld engine and RAGB mounts in final position so I can get started on idler/tensioners....

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Gastank.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Gastank.jpg)

Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 09, 2006, 08:04:09 pm
Parts are starting to "fall into place" on this design as you build chassis... (at least some of them are)

Got the rear brake caliper mounted, and was scoping out mounting locations for the master cylinder...Seems I can't quite place it on the right side with the gas tank and RAGB mounts where they are...In order to clear starter, I won't get a good line up with my linkage to pedal "inside the frame rails..

I might be able to place it "outside" the frame rails near the rear wheel and use a direct link to pedal...or...

Otherwise I'll have to mount it on the inside left of frame rails and run a cross link to lever to pull on MC....

I'll have a better idea which is more practical once I get the running boards on...hopefully tomorrow..
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: mowdak1 on December 09, 2006, 08:15:30 pm
Pictures help in the thought process??

http://www.g-team.us/Pedals/slides/Oct29_019.html
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 09, 2006, 08:27:53 pm
Yeah..that's kinda what I was thinking...On the outside of the rail behind the running board...Then I can mount it low and get a straight shot to pedal with linkage...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: mowdak1 on December 09, 2006, 08:58:52 pm
Two bolts welded under the frame is all he's running to mount it. Works great... And, it cuts down on brakeline to the rear caliper. Which is where most of our stopping goes on. Sweet and simple to install.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 09, 2006, 09:05:47 pm
Yep...so now tomorrow, I can go out there and "stare" at it somemower...

Must have been out there 6-7 hours today...got a gas tank and a couple chains mounted... :noplease:

Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: mightymowe on December 09, 2006, 10:43:48 pm
You should get a nice cumfy chair to sit in when you are "staring" at it I think it helps the thought process,oh and some music and and I'm thinking about "my" happy place
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: money89tractors on December 09, 2006, 11:36:59 pm
how did you set up your driveline with just chains and a RAGB? are you runnin a centrifical :censored: on the engine? id so how are you planning on protecting it from getting beat to death?

-Phil
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 10, 2006, 08:14:56 pm
10 minutes to go...I'm currently in the lead on the wheel...(http://www.saltwaterfish.com/vb/images/smilies/jumping.gif) got a couple bucks in reserve...

If someone "snipers" me...I'm gonna get a shot gun... :mad:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 10, 2006, 08:23:15 pm
2min 36 to go...too late to add a bid on dial up...but still winning..
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: money89tractors on December 10, 2006, 08:29:04 pm
hope and prey!!

-Phil
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 10, 2006, 08:36:12 pm
I win... :woo: Dang that was close..ran up to almost meet my reserve at the last second...

16".. Gotta love those big wheels..




[old attachment deleted by admin]
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 10, 2006, 09:37:20 pm
how did you set up your driveline with just chains and a RAGB? are you runnin a centrifical :censored: on the engine? id so how are you planning on protecting it from getting beat to death?

-Phil

Part of protecting the C clutch is getting it as high in the chassis as I could...I didn't want to "raise" the engine...so I had to raise the clutch...

Here you can see it hangs down a little lower than it needs to ...and definetly lower than I like..

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Shaft.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Shaft.jpg)

So, I cut 1 1/2" off my crank (and a backup crank  ;) ) to raise the clutch..then drilled and retapped center bolt...


Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 10, 2006, 09:41:17 pm
That tucks the clutch and chain up almost completely between the frame rails...mounted RAGB to match...

Then when I added the running boards (1 1/2" lower) it completely protects chain, clutch and tensioner....

On the angle shot here you can barely see it...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Angle.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Angle.jpg)

On the side shot you can see it's completely protected...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Side.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Side.jpg)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 10, 2006, 09:50:53 pm
I can see I'm gonna like this "built in" chassis stand...

It's coming in handy already...and will be great for on track adjustments, gear changes etc...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Bottom.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Bottom.jpg)

Added the running boards...for FX they only have to "represent" a mower deck...So I made them small and light as possible with an expanded mesh to let the mud slid out and still provide side (positioning) support and traction for my feet...

Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 10, 2006, 09:54:55 pm
Starting to look like something now..I set the seat and "old" wheel on for Mock Up purposes...

Now that I won a wheel...I can finish the upper steering and set the seat in it's permenent (but adjustable) position...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Almostrolling.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Almostrolling.jpg)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: offroadwhatever8 on December 10, 2006, 09:59:06 pm
Your new f/x is looking great so far :twothumbsup:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: birdman_express on December 10, 2006, 10:07:32 pm
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Bottom.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Bottom.jpg)

I also see, that the position of your tensioner gives your drive sprocket more percentage of chain coverage as well.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 10, 2006, 10:12:34 pm
Yep...rather than pull "away" for tension...or placing it down by RAGB (which has plenty of tooth engagement) I put it up by C Clutch and pushed "in" for that reason...

Also when I set the chain on I pulled the motor mount so the chain was  "almost tight"...then welded it... so now I need minimal tension to hold chain, no 1/2 links to adjust length and no excess "bends" in chain path...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: money89tractors on December 10, 2006, 10:33:23 pm
that things really looking sweet! i love how you did the chain setup, its very simple and basically makes the mower a go-cart to a sence. keep us updated on this build,  imay very well build one after this :D

-Phil
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: creechfan on December 10, 2006, 11:33:38 pm
Hummmmm, I thought there was a common belief here on haymow.com about chain not liking to run on it’s side…..

It looks like you did a superb job with your setup, but will it work? Is this chain mystery finally going to have some light shed on it??


I’d like to know more about how your setup works!!    :)  :)

btw,

your ride is sweet!!

( Honestly though, everything you build is pretty darn cool!)




-=CreechFan
 
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 10, 2006, 11:36:09 pm
Seems to work OK here...

[old attachment deleted by admin]
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 10, 2006, 11:43:18 pm
And here... ;)

[old attachment deleted by admin]
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: creechfan on December 10, 2006, 11:50:24 pm
I’ve just heard otherwise from other people…

Thanks for the picks!!!!

-=CreechFan
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: mowmanscott on December 11, 2006, 06:17:18 am
Verry nice Randy. What are the sprocket sizes you are useing from engine to axel? Thanks Scott
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 11, 2006, 07:26:54 am
I'm going "start" by underdriveing the RAGB by 1:2 with a 16 and 32 and then start with a 15 and 40 on the axle for a 5.3:1 final...Then by changing drive sprockets on the RAGB I can switch by 0.3 per tooth for 4.7 and 5.0 and 5.6 ratios...fine tuning with axle sprocket as needed for track length....

With the extra bearing on the output shaft, I think I'll be able to get better torque transfer thru the ragb with the underdrive...
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Gearboxa.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Gearboxa.jpg)
 

Depending on how things hold up (ragb and lower chain) I may switch to a 1:1.5 or even 1:1 ratio to RAGB and adjust drive to axle accordingly for final....
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: nic_hayes on December 11, 2006, 10:28:53 pm
hey squidd, i was thinking about buying that same clutch that you have and i was wondering why you couldnt just slide the clutch up on the shaft farther instead of cutting the crank, thanks
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 11, 2006, 10:56:14 pm
Check page 7...reply 92 and down...

They make two different kinds of clutch...and end mount (outboard/like mine) and an inboard (slides over shaft) Make sure you order the correct one...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: creechfan on December 22, 2006, 02:37:30 pm
Quote
3/8"x3/8" Heim joints- RH thread- Mc master Carr

do you think you could share that part number with me?


thanks!!!!!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 22, 2006, 03:41:25 pm
 60645K141
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 23, 2006, 12:36:35 am
Still waiting on my wheel, but I set the top linkage and bearings...I'll just leave the shaft long till I can set ride height with the wheel...

Top back bearing mount (and wheel) is removable to gain access to motor if required for removal...

Tomorrow I'll cut the hood out to fit around the steering...wheel should come out just where I want it for C.O.G. balance...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Steeringfront.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Steeringfront.jpg)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Steeringback.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Steeringback.jpg)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: money89tractors on December 23, 2006, 01:42:23 am
man randy that f/x is lookin sweeter and sweeter, i like the way you did the steering setup, its really nice. one question, if you take a midengine frame (steering column in fron of the engine) and make the before the engine, would it be USLMRA legal?

-Phil
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 23, 2006, 07:52:41 am
That's a good question....

According to rule #9 for F/X...
Quote
9) Front axle and steering may be reinforced, substituted or fabricated
It would seem you could...If a guy wanted to fabricate a drop shaft just behind the motor for direct steer, this rule allows substitution and fabrication...But....

Rule #19 says....
Quote
19) Engine must remain in original position (front, mid or rear) in reference to the steering column and the seat.

I take it to mean you can not move "engine" in relation to steering colum and seat (so mower stays "stock appearing") but they may use it against moving the steering as well...

I'll drop Jim Witt a line (head tech) and see what he has to say....
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: mowdak1 on December 23, 2006, 11:50:00 am
I'd have to agree with your opinion on that one, I think you're going to find the intent of the rule there is to prevent the use of front or rear engine chassis in mid-engine configuration to retain a somewhat stock appearance.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: George Herrin on December 23, 2006, 02:17:26 pm
You are correct Rocky that was the intent of the rule when it was made. But things have changed since I was  tech interprtation may be somewhat different now!!!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Chris on December 23, 2006, 03:09:22 pm
That steering setup is pretty darn cool!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: offroadwhatever8 on December 23, 2006, 04:10:16 pm
Yeah, i dont think ive ever seen a steering set up like that before, it looks awsome and so dose your new fx  :+1:, Keep up the great work
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 23, 2006, 04:21:29 pm
Thanks Guys...

Summer (racing season) is so short and winter so long... I sure enjoy the time to play around and design and dream out in the shop..Building is half the fun, or as much fun as racing...

"Fixing" or rebuilding in the middle of the race season on the other hand..is a pain in the butt..

Big snow storm last night so power is out..so no new work in the shop today...

(but I did back up the race trailer and hooked the generator up to the computer, so I could go on line... :badgrin:)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: offroadwhatever8 on December 23, 2006, 05:26:32 pm
You have a computer in a trailer? :lol: :badgrin: :D
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Chris on December 23, 2006, 05:46:40 pm
You have a computer in a trailer? :lol: :badgrin: :D

Why not? I have one in my car ;)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: mower_mulisha on December 23, 2006, 05:54:22 pm
You were out too hey Randy, in Wausau here ours went out last night around 9:15 pm then came back on today at 12:30 this afternoon. We got about 5 inches between 4-7 pm last night. Before that we got 2 days of rain. At least WI finally got some snow on the ground for Christmas!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 24, 2006, 02:00:23 pm
We got 6"-7", which may not seem like a lot to guys that get 2' of powder...but it was that heavy wet snow that clings to trees and bends them over taking out the powerlines as they go....

Hey..Like the avatar...But we may have to change them...

Or guys are gonna start thinking Wisconsin racers don't know how to run on 4 wheels... :rofl:

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_SP660-540x374.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/SP660-540x374.jpg)
^^Fearless Leader...^^
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 24, 2006, 03:34:56 pm
Used 1 1/2" schd 40 pipe and "flanged" 5/8" bearings on the wheel mount, 5/8" shaft a wheel mount and a couple shaft locks...makes a solid little pivot point...

Finished with a little gusseting to add strength...
(don't want the wheel popping off in my hands when I'm hanging it all out on two wheels)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Gusset-1.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Gusset-1.jpg)

Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 24, 2006, 03:40:56 pm
Got the hood roughed in to fit over mount...wheel should come out right where I want it...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Hood2.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Hood2.jpg)

This is where I'd put my steering wheel...If I "HAD" a steering wheel....I mean I bought a steering wheel...paid for a steering wheel...even paid shipping for a steering wheel...

But I don't "have" a steering wheel.... :mad:

But if I did...this is where I'd put it....
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Hood.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Hood.jpg)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: money89tractors on December 24, 2006, 04:02:52 pm
mowers lookin really nice squidd!   i thought you got the whole deal with the wheel taken car of?

-Phil
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 24, 2006, 04:07:05 pm
Obviously not...see that big "empty" spot where the wheel should go...(assuming I actually ever recieve a wheel... :mad:)

Last I heard he was to ship last Thursday...asked for confirmation and have neither...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: offroadwhatever8 on December 24, 2006, 07:45:30 pm
Mower is looking real good randy, and hopfully one of these days you will get the steering wheel...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: septemberrein on December 26, 2006, 07:37:59 pm
lookin good,how soon before the rims & tires are installed?darn it again ,  I forgot to sign in under my user name  :D .
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 28, 2006, 11:23:13 pm
Tires and Wheels have just been ordered...Gonna run QRC/Burris front and rear..

Don at G-Team is "starting" to bring in and carry mower and mower parts, working on becoming a "One Stop" Mower and karting shop...so I placed a good sized order on most of the stuff I'll need to bring this project home...

Tires, Wheels, Exhaust kit is coming..."J" pipes and flanges...Take a look in my AP build to see what I did with the last set...

Sprockets, Hubs and a few misc. pieces to finish the rear end and then we can move up front to dig into the engine, Body and front brakes....

And if I'm really Lucky...My steering wheel might show up before the start of the racing season... :doh:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Jeff Hosford on December 29, 2006, 12:20:42 am
Hey Squidd looks great so far. keep us all posted on your build can't wait to see it finished. And good luck with the wheel.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 30, 2006, 09:12:42 pm
OK you'll never guess what finally showed up (19 days later)...

But it was worth it ...16" (more like 16 1/2"-17") Aluminum and light as a feather...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_SteeringWheel.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/SteeringWheel.jpg)

Darrin and his Dad (mower_mulisha)...stopped over this afternoon for some bench racing...and they assured me I'm a shoe in for next years "Big Wheel" award... :badgrin:

But it does the trick..Nice wide handstance (similar to "handle bars") without the bars...:thumbsup:

 
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Chris on December 30, 2006, 09:26:08 pm
You're still giving him negative (or at least neutral) feedback, right?
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: money89tractors on December 30, 2006, 09:29:18 pm
i would give negative, he jerked you around pretty good with it.

the wheel looks nice on there though!! :D

-Phil
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 30, 2006, 09:32:13 pm
Quote
at least neutral

Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Jeff Hosford on December 30, 2006, 10:23:34 pm
Wheel looks great. Your mochine is really starting to take shape looking forward to seeing more posts on your progress. Keep up the good work.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: mower_mulisha on December 30, 2006, 10:57:14 pm
Yep dad and I went to the North Pole to visit Santa's workshop. And just like Randy said, The Mower Mulisha Racing Team is for sure going to Award the BIGGEST Wheel Award to Randy Stys in the FX Class!! LOL. All he needs is a suicide knob on that big thing!! But to tell you all the Truth why Randy wanted such a BIG steering wheel. He says it's to fool your eyes!! It makes his FX look smaller with the big wheel on it!! And let me add, his FX has som A+ fabrication done to it. These pics don't do it justice!! Can't wait to see it all done. The way that sounds it won't be for a while!  ;)    Keep up the good work Randy and thanks again for everything.  Darrin.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 30, 2006, 11:14:38 pm
Yeah..yeah..it's been going slow with the holidays and all , but I have ordered up most all the parts.. just need to wait for them to show up to do the next big "push" in building...Got a few "small" details worked in, nothing real dramatic, so they'll show up in detail shots a little further down the line..

In the mean time I touched up a few things on the AP (left over from last year) and getting ready to do convert Sami's S/S to the new IMOW rules and do a direct steer conversion (she has the Ackerman and bell crank, but we want to pull the stock "gearbox" and go direct..) That, we'll do in her buildup thread..

Also got a G-Team "F.A.S.T" axle install...and new IMOW conversion to do on John Lyon's ride (my old IMOW) soon as he gets parts we'll do a writeup..

So while I haven't had a bunch of "new" stuff to show on the F/X lately, still got things in the works..(stay tuned) ;) 
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on January 13, 2007, 08:46:43 pm
Got the Rear Brakes installed, hooked up and tested...

I'm running a Willwood hand operated hydraulic master cylinder (L/H snowmobile type)... I like this setup as it allows me a finer braking action and more control on "feathering" the brakes as I throw the mowchine into a powerslide and throttle steer thru the corners..

Much easier (for me) to feather a hand grip than pump a bouncing foot control...

This is also matchs the layout on my A/P with the mechanical brakes so they have  the same feel as I jump from mowchine to mowchine...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_WilwoodMC.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/WilwoodMC.jpg)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on January 13, 2007, 08:51:48 pm
Rear caliper is a MCP unit with the dual line setup... Master is a single output unit...

As the Wilwood is a high volume/high pressure master, it pumps both sides up with just a slight squeeze of the grip...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Caliper.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Caliper.jpg)

Front brakes will be operated by the dual outlet MCP Master cylinder hooked to a foot control...allowing seperate brake controls for front and back (ala motorcycle)


Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: nic_hayes on January 13, 2007, 08:54:58 pm
hey squidd, do you have a pic of it with your seat and steering wheel on, still trying to figue mine out, also how long is it axle to axle?, thanks
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on January 13, 2007, 09:11:41 pm
Not at present, closest I got is on page 16 reply #234...

I'll get one tomorrow to show the layout and strech...

Wheelbase (axle to axle) is just below max at 41 3/4"...

Did get the throttle , start and kill button installed...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Controls.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Controls.jpg)

Has the same basic "feel"and layout as my A/P...but a little wider and further forward...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_APControls.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/APControls.jpg)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: nic_hayes on January 13, 2007, 09:14:32 pm
yea i thought the rule was 42 inches so i made mine 41.5 but it looks really short ;)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: money89tractors on January 13, 2007, 09:16:51 pm
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/SteeringWheel.jpg (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/SteeringWheel.jpg)
^^theres the picture with the wheel and a seat on it.

i like how you setup your brakes, i think it will be much safer than just having the brakes on the foot.

all that work to get that wheel and you go cutting up the cover on it, shame on you Squidd  :noplease:

-Phil
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Chris on January 13, 2007, 09:17:04 pm
That's really cool!

I was thinking about doing something very very similar to El Toro, as bouncing down some trails requires you to be standing up. One time I was climbing a very very steep hill, I was leaning on the handlebars to keep the front down and one of the back tires broke loose and the other caught. It brought the front end up and spun the mower around - standing up and leaning slightly forward I couldn't push in the clutch or activate the brake. It was very scary!! I jumped off the mower and it fell on it's side. Ever since then I've wanted to put "backup" (so to speak) clutch and brake levers on the handlebars for situations like so.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: offroadwhatever8 on January 13, 2007, 09:24:51 pm
This mower is turning out really cool looking  :woo:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on January 13, 2007, 09:28:33 pm
yea i thought the rule was 42 inches so i made mine 41.5 but it looks really short ;)

No...36" is short... :omg: Thats what My A/P is...

I'll set them on the floor side by side tomorrow so you can see the difference 6" makes...

All the difference in the world for a tall guy like me...Seat is 4" back from where the A/P sits and the axle is 2" further yet....Nice balance and very close to my "goal" C.o.G...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: nic_hayes on January 13, 2007, 09:29:55 pm
thanks a lot squidd, this build up is alot of help
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: offroadwhatever8 on January 13, 2007, 09:31:50 pm
Randy, your at 50 karma now  :twitch:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on January 13, 2007, 09:54:49 pm
Randy, your at 50 karma now  :twitch:
Cool....Pretty soon you can call me "Earl"...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: offroadwhatever8 on January 13, 2007, 10:07:41 pm
Blah hahahhahahahahahah!!!!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on January 14, 2007, 03:02:38 pm
OK put them side by side for comparison..

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Sidebyside.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Sidebyside.jpg)

FX is sitting a little lower, the wood disc are the actual size of tires I'll be using...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_lower.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/lower.jpg)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: nic_hayes on January 14, 2007, 03:05:26 pm
looking good squidd, how high is your seat off of the frame? thanks
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on January 14, 2007, 03:06:43 pm
With the fronts matched up like that the extra 6" shows up well in the back.. steering wheel and motor are in same relative position, but seat is 4" further back for legroom but still allowing seat to be forward of axle for weight transfer and balance...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_wheelbase.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/wheelbase.jpg)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on January 14, 2007, 03:09:40 pm
This one here probably shows seat position a little better..

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_seatposition.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/seatposition.jpg)

Seat is 10" from top of frame to bottom of "pan" (then figure a 1/2" to 3/4" foam and cover...)
A/P is 12" frame to seat....

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Back.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Back.jpg)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: nic_hayes on January 14, 2007, 03:11:35 pm
it looks like you put the back of the seat in line with the axle, is that right, also about how high did you put your steering wheel, thanks again :)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: offroadwhatever8 on January 14, 2007, 03:49:14 pm
THAT THING IS AWSOME!!!

just emagine it painted and with wheels.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: money89tractors on January 14, 2007, 04:23:55 pm
if his A/P is a mean as i think it is (except in the snow...), i can only imagin how the F/X is going to be, its longer which mean more stable, and its lower, which also make it stable. 

looks really nice squidd!

-Phil
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on February 08, 2007, 08:57:00 pm
Alrighty then...

Big Brown Toy Truck came down the driveway today...With a box from North Dakota... :woo:

Got my "exhaust kit" ("1 1/4"-1 3/8" and 1 1/2" "J" bend pipes)

Rear Billet Sprocket hub, Axle Clamps and best of all....

BTS Front Brakes....Check these bad Boys out...
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Brakes.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Brakes.jpg)

I had set up for the Hegars and initial measurements say these will bolt right in... but the overall size is just a tad smaller...so shouldn't be any clearance issues...

Floating disc on pined hub.. cute little caliper on a symmetrical mount (left/right interchangeable)

Can't wait till tomorrow and the weekend to get them fit...will post pics...
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_BTS.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/BTS.jpg)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on February 08, 2007, 08:58:34 pm
Have the MCP master already mounted and the custom front pedal in place I'll get pics of them as well...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Scurry Murry on February 08, 2007, 09:05:06 pm
Just to verify, Don has those up there.. I called up there to G-force today working on getting a motor to him, might as well see if I can't deal on some other provisions from him.   
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on February 08, 2007, 09:11:16 pm
Yep..Don at G-Team is working on becoming a Full Line Mower parts retailer...anything and everything specifically for a racing mower is his goal

BTS Brakes- Front (as shown) Rear, QRC/Burris tires, dig this QRC >>>"Beadlock" <<< Rims , exhaust kits, headers, flanges, etc... Full race frames and all components, steering rear drive axle everything...

Not to mention some Briggs inventions and inovations..You'll be hearing more as time goes on...!!!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Chris on February 08, 2007, 09:12:33 pm
I'm very interested in seeing how those are going to mount - take lots of pictures! The rear brakes I have look the exact same mount-wise, and I was considering different mounting options.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on February 08, 2007, 10:39:01 pm
Will do. Gotta see if I can find 3/16 brakeline and fitttings in town here, shouldn't be a problem, and then get it strung through the chassis. These caliper brackets are made to mount on a stationary spindle, and be held in line with a key...little different  than a rotating rear axle.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: George Herrin on February 08, 2007, 11:54:53 pm
Nice brakes. We should have our own line of Front brakes done in about a month at E.C. Soon as we do will compare them to yours. Be a very similar setup as hegars and Bts.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Don Gienger on February 09, 2007, 10:39:30 am
Hey Just to help out the fitting going in is 1/8th NPT. I have been going to Jeg's for fittings. Earl's is a nice set up. Straights and 90 degree and yes 45's too. They have a #3 Braided line or hose size. Then you can get any length you want to make it all work out.
Don't know what I am talking about see me in Iowa for the build clinic. My FX has the set up you are wanting to copy.
And as far as BTS front brankes and more?? There is special pricing coming soon too.
Heck to much going on.
Mower Later
Don
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on February 10, 2007, 07:57:23 pm
You guys have probably seen this before, But Don carries "U" and "J" bend pipe in the smaller diameters as well as flanges for small block and big block motors...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Mower008.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Mower008.jpg)

With a couple different size pipes and careful cutting, you can make a smooth flow exhaust to fit most any motor/chassis/exit combo imaginable...

For my F/X I'm keeping it short, sweet and simple... 1" to 1 3/8" about 22" total length...Down and back..

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Exhaust-1.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Exhaust-1.jpg)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on February 10, 2007, 08:13:18 pm
Brakes went on smooth and as expected...

BTS has the same mounting as the Hegars I had set up for, so only a little adjustment for track width was necessary to get them installed..

Right...
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Right.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Right.jpg)

Left..
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Left.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Left.jpg)

While the rear brakes are operated by the Wilwood "Hand control" Master... The Fronts will powered by a MCP master actuated by a foot pedal... This gives me full control over proportioning the braking application...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Master.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Master.jpg)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Pedal.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Pedal.jpg)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on February 10, 2007, 08:21:05 pm
Found some neat little couplers to plumb everything together...

A 1/8" npt to 5/32" "Quick connect" compression fitting, with a 5/32" nylon brake line...

Brake line "pushes" in and locks and pushing the collar down will "quick release" the line...These are stamped "DOT Approved" so I'm pretty confident they will hold and not leak or come apart...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Fitting.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Fitting.jpg)

Actually quite a bit easier to work with than the 3/16" white nylon and standard compression fittings..
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: money89tractors on February 10, 2007, 11:36:15 pm
super nice setup squidd!! this f/x is gunna be sweet!

-Phil
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: rebelchild16 on February 12, 2007, 12:17:57 am
Love to see pictures of the whole mower up to this point! looks great what I can see.we run a AYP pro-x or FX. Wife won campionship 06 season for middle tenn.Were going to run BTLMRA this year. would like to run together some time.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: allen minaker on February 15, 2007, 01:20:11 am
Hey Squidd , are the orange spacers just that spacers to keep you out at 38 in . or are they needed to keep clearance ?
Do your rotors run on the inside of the rim or just outside ??? would love to see a pic with the tires on .
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on February 15, 2007, 07:38:00 am
Spacers are their for the 38"....might have to cut them down a tad once I get the actual tire/wheel on....

Should be picking my T/Ws up from Don at the Build Clinic in Iowa and get a final set on the measurement /spacer.....and then she's ready for paint...!!!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: allen minaker on February 15, 2007, 09:16:34 am
Good deal , just lookin and wondered what it looked like with T/W on . THANKS
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Scott on February 18, 2007, 11:38:34 am
Those fittings look like standard air brake fittings and hose. I didn't know those were rated to carry fluid.

I haven't seen anyone using steel or aluminum brake line down the frame. I would think it more durable and more resistant to wear. As well as less expansion under pressure.

Maybe cause its just easier?  :bash:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: allen minaker on February 18, 2007, 11:42:05 am
There are a few of the fuys that are running the braided stainless lines but I don't remember ever seeing solid line used .

LOL*** guys *** LOL
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on February 18, 2007, 12:33:38 pm
Well yes, they are air line rated, nylon, and DOT 5 compatiable....

Would I use them on my car...no, but I don't have aneed for quick release couplers on my car either....

These are functional and compatible for the application....

Is there any reason I shouldn't use them...??
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Chris on February 19, 2007, 01:06:05 pm
I need to figure out how I'm going to be mounting my brakes, as I'll have the rotating axle and that'll be a problem.

One question, what are the advantages of having the rear brakes on hand and the front on foot?
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: DanW on February 19, 2007, 01:15:30 pm
You can do some nice e-brake slides  :)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on February 19, 2007, 07:21:55 pm
Quote
One question, what are the advantages of having the rear brakes on hand and the front on foot?
This is a "personal preference" thing...

Some guys will run the dual masters off a foot control and one will run full to rear and proportion to front...the other guy will run full to front and proportion to rear...

On a motorcycle they run hand front and foot rear...

I'm running hand rear...because my "other" mowchine runs a hand rear brake and when running two or more mowchines it's always a good idea to keep controls the same for familiarity...also I like the "control" of feathering a hand brake to set up for throttle steer, compared to stabbing at it with my foot...

When I need the extra braking (emergency or hard lock on a deep corner entrance) I can mash the pedal with my foot, and still be able to override "either" front or rear with the dual control...I can adjust the proportioning thru the corner as needed...

Also..(and this is the real reason) after I beat Al in the race, I can lock the fronts and do the killer donut/burnout in front of the grandstand...:badgrin:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: allen minaker on February 19, 2007, 07:25:49 pm
Your not plannin on using the new brakes much ????
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on February 19, 2007, 07:30:12 pm
At least once per race...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: allen minaker on February 19, 2007, 07:36:44 pm
That's good , I'll let you try them out in the heat race .
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on February 19, 2007, 07:46:23 pm
That's "Per race" not per race weekend.... 8)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: allen minaker on February 20, 2007, 01:24:17 am
 :lala: :lala:   



 :lol:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: George Herrin on February 20, 2007, 07:04:22 am
Don't worry AL if you can drive it you will have the motor, unless you driving a tank.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: allen minaker on February 20, 2007, 09:06:39 am
I know the motor is the least of my worries , Now I have to learn how to drive .   LOL
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on February 20, 2007, 11:04:27 am
Yeah, he might be going for "Most Improved" two years running...

Hail, probably room for a third in there...:rofl:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: allen minaker on February 20, 2007, 11:39:10 am
That just means that I'm getting better , what about you ????????

I could stand to be the most improved driver again and the class champion !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on March 03, 2007, 11:07:26 am
That just means that I'm getting better , what about you ????????

I've always been good... Now I'm just going Faster...(http://www.reefmonkey.com/phpbb2/images/smiles/cool.gif)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on March 03, 2007, 11:10:34 am
Anyway...Looks like we lost a couple posts here.. so I'll "re-up"....

Got some rear tires and wheels at the Iowa Build Clinic from Don... >>GTR<< and dropped the motor off with him for some  :ninja: ..."Special Tweakage"... :maxevil:

Burris TXs on Douglas Rims... These puppies gonna put some rubber on the track...:thumbsup:

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Rears.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Rears.jpg)

These things are just Huge..!! But Don does have one size Bigger... the 12"x9"x6 a Burris/QRC/G-Team exclusive... and I may pick 1 up to give a little stagger and more of a "Sprint Car" look...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Hugerear.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Hugerear.jpg)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on March 03, 2007, 11:16:22 am
Got them mounted up (fronts too) and finaly got 'er down on the ground to check ride height...

Front is perfect and rear needs to come down a 3/8" but i have that much adjustabilty in my rear carriers...(plus room to tweak in some wedge)...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_GroundLevel.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/GroundLevel.jpg)

So this is it Rolling Chasis ready to strip down and get body work and painted...
Aluminum Panels (ala stock car) will cover the frame and be fit after painting...

How Sweet is that...!!

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Tireson.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Tireson.jpg)

Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Tom Fox on March 03, 2007, 11:22:05 am
Your MOWSHINE looks great sitting on the ground!!!

Will you be making you side panels (right side) come up high to act as a BUTT-HOLDER-INNER for your seat?
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on March 03, 2007, 11:32:49 am
Your MOWSHINE looks great sitting on the ground!!!

Will you be making you side panels (right side) come up high to act as a BUTT-HOLDER-INNER for your seat?

Yeah...that's gonna be pretty much a neccessity with this bad boy...

I'll be doing that as part of the Body Work/Painting/Upolstry/Graphics as we go along here...

Thinking a thin closed cell, custom upolstered, form fitted seat using the "original" seat pan to comply with the rules...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: mightymowe on March 03, 2007, 03:03:48 pm
Just out of curiosity why does everybody use 5" wheels and tires on the F/X machines? Is it because the kart tires have the most selection of sizes and styles,are they proven to work better? I was just wondering,because the B/P machines seem to work good on turf tires and they are cheaper.Is there some other benefit to the kart tires? I was toying with 8" rims and tires all the way around the bigger diameter would give you just as much of a footprint as the wide small diameter tires plus more room for a bigger brake disk.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: allen minaker on March 03, 2007, 03:15:47 pm
I have 5's on the front of mine and 6's on the rear , But have a whole NEW set of BAD A** tires that are 5's and got some rims off Ebay so now I will have a set of 5's and 6's to run on the back and two differant seets for the front .
I Know a few differant people that are running all 6's and turf tires and seam to do pretty good and a couple mower that are going to be running this year . So it's not out of the question to do that .
As far as haveing enough room for your brake rotor , I have plenty of room for my rotor even with my 5's on the rear .
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on March 03, 2007, 03:25:23 pm
These are 6" all the way round..

And for F/X there is no comparison of "mower tires" to the soft compounds of the grooved Kart tires... In the prepared classes mower tires are required...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on March 03, 2007, 03:36:26 pm
Quote
I have plenty of room for my rotor even with my 5's on the rear .

Yeah, but I think you may have a little trouble with calipers and rotors with 5's on the front...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: allen minaker on March 03, 2007, 03:47:06 pm
That's what they make a spacer for .
Your MOWchine does look real nice !!! good work !!!!

Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on March 03, 2007, 03:57:33 pm
Your MOWchine does look real nice !!! good work !!!!

Thanks...

Quote
That's what they make a spacer for .

Hint....think backspacing on wheels...(ie: skip the douglas and go Van K)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: allen minaker on March 03, 2007, 04:22:55 pm
Got that hint and the rims already !!! but thanks .
That and the Van-k's are cheaper and work (look) just as good .

I think I will still have to use some kind of a spacer , not sure . Not even sure if I will have the front brakes this year , would love them but have the sisters mower to build and al the new cool parts may rule out the brakes for this year.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on March 03, 2007, 04:31:00 pm
Well... It's not like your gonna be needing them to do the victory donuts or anything...:badgrin:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: allen minaker on March 03, 2007, 10:03:42 pm
Your right I'll have enough MOTOR i won't need to us front brakes to do a doughnut .
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: allen minaker on March 03, 2007, 10:16:40 pm
Well we all know George is our HERO and he builds my motors for me so enough said !!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on March 03, 2007, 10:20:41 pm
(http://www.reefmonkey.com/phpbb2/images/smiles/character0051.gif)We'll see at the track buddy...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on March 03, 2007, 10:25:17 pm
Got 'er stripped down and ready for painting...57# with all the bracketry, mounts and deck installed...
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_BareChassis.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/BareChassis.jpg)

Was 31# as shown earlier (bare fame) and original frame was over 50# without the deck, so I think we hit the goal of light and stiff on the chasis here....

For comparison...Don said eariler he had added 40-50# just putting plate steel on his foot hold/deck...that's about the total for my whole chassis.. :omg:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: allen minaker on March 03, 2007, 10:28:39 pm
OK , for real now .

I wa going to ask you if you had ran it at all but that would lead me to belive that that is a NO .

LOL
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on March 04, 2007, 11:58:06 am
Nahh... I like to wait till the Thursday or Friday before the season opener to get my prototype motor installed, tested and get it dialed in for the big race... :roll:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: allen minaker on March 04, 2007, 12:05:55 pm
I know that's how I like to do it to  :doh:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Chris on March 05, 2007, 10:21:40 am
So you're going to let me take it for a ride Squidd, right? :lol:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Kiddanger on March 08, 2007, 01:52:58 pm
Im curious what kind of transmission that is and where i could get one.
Thanks
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: allen minaker on March 08, 2007, 04:34:01 pm
RAGB --Right Angel Gear Box , there kind of hard to find but can be found on mower decks , snowblowers , and who nows were else ??

Ebay   LOL
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: redline on March 08, 2007, 05:03:03 pm
Squidd-looks good, out of curiosity, how many mowers have you built? I'm on my second, and i still fab something, then throw it in a pile and make it again...excellent work!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on March 08, 2007, 05:20:37 pm
Sanctioned /Racer mowers, this is my forth...

But my Fab skills go back many years... I owned a small custom steel fab shop Lotta "one up" stuff I designed engineered and built preproduction.

That and I got good tools...and that makes a big difference..
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Kiddanger on March 09, 2007, 09:54:14 am
Ill put that gearbox high on my priority list... hydraulic brakes are second. The 1" axle is next  - need adapters to run my 4 golf kart rims/wheels. I figger using those adapters will work for any rim with that 4 lug pattern.
Thanks again fro the help with my project.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Ty on March 09, 2007, 10:28:39 am
RAGB --Right Angel Gear Box , there kind of hard to find but can be found on mower decks , snowblowers , and who nows were else ??

Ebay   LOL
on some older murrays that use the 2300 trans and jacobsen lawn tractors.
Looks great squidd ,can't wait to see it after paint .
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: SoBecide on March 23, 2007, 07:59:52 pm
hey squidd,

what is the size tires and rims in the pics:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Tireson.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/GroundLevel.jpg

these are on page 20 is this topic.

been reading about different tire widths at:
http://www.heymow.com/index.php/topic,1041.0.html

At reply #2 he was talking about having a smaller width for a taller tire, or a longer width for a low profile tire.  just wondering where your tire and rim's width/height is.  umm...i think i had another question about that or something...but my brain just died on me.

thanks a bundle,
SoBe
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on March 23, 2007, 08:09:07 pm
In the pics those are 11x5.5x6 tires in the front and 12x8x6 in the rear...

Quote
a longer width for a low profile tire.


George is running a B/P in that thread and I'm building a F/X in those pics...

They are different chassis/engine combos in a different class's with different "allowable" rules..





 
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: SoBecide on March 23, 2007, 08:37:07 pm
thanks a lot!

hmm...*ponders*

so the tires overall width is the same as the rims width?  i might be reading the rim sizes wrong on the websites lol.  bc i look for a tire size thats in a common size used on here, and try to find a rim that would match it and cannot find an exact match tire to rim.

eh...been on the internet too many hours this evening.

-SoBe
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on March 23, 2007, 08:52:46 pm
Quote
so the tires overall width is the same as the rims width?

Personal preference... and a bit of the black arts... Rim size affects sidewall stifness (in conjunction with side "ply" rating) as well as tire roll over, tread patch contact and jounce/rebound elasticity...

I run 6" rims on front and 9 1/4" rims in the rear...;)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on March 25, 2007, 07:58:27 pm
Looks great squidd ,can't wait to see it after paint .

I wanted to wait till I got further along, but I thought I'd toss out a teaser...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_color.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/color.jpg)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: money89tractors on March 26, 2007, 06:37:39 am
 :drool: that things gunna be awesome!!

-Phil
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Tom Fox on March 26, 2007, 06:51:03 am
The side panels look great on there!!!

I really like the UNPAINTED RIVET look to!!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Ty on March 26, 2007, 01:38:07 pm
weren't you told not to tease as you were growin up ? :lol:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Greyghost on March 27, 2007, 05:11:05 am
I just started building a murray last year and I'm starting to build an old super ride this year. It is awsome that you guys share these tips and techniques of building. Great builds, keep up the good work.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: allen minaker on March 27, 2007, 08:12:10 am
That's how we make sure we have good racing !!!!! That and it's how we make sure that people know the right way to build a safe mower .

Looks pretty good Squidd , can't wait to see it done .
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: SeanStanley on April 06, 2007, 05:13:06 pm
wow squidd!
it looks great...
but whats this with you and purple :lol:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on April 15, 2007, 09:06:58 pm
Just about ready for the motor..
(Hint.. Hint... Don...)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_NeedsPaint.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/NeedsPaint.jpg)


I do have a "Grape Pearl" paint I want to try on the hood though before I commit to lettering..

And then recovering the seat and adding the side plate...

Won't be long and ready for a test drive.... (hint....hint...)

Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: MTDrider1160 on April 15, 2007, 09:18:17 pm
One would think your anxious for your engine!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: crocco58 on April 15, 2007, 09:35:46 pm
That is a nice mowchine  :twothumbsup:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: tractorracer12 on April 16, 2007, 12:30:09 am
Tell me about it everyone else is ready for the test drive you promised us to.   LOL
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Ty on April 20, 2007, 11:06:53 am
great job squidd ,is it goin to be ready for may 12th race in greenbay ?
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Robert Sparbel on April 21, 2007, 10:43:35 am
Looking GOOD!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on April 21, 2007, 11:00:14 am
Thanks Guys...

I'm shooting for the GreenBay opener to wring it out and work some bugs out, but really the big "debut" will be Fifield... and National Debut in Mendota..

That was my first National race and my first National podium finish in AP, so looking to repete in the new class...

(in fact, I think that was the first race ever for the "22 Special"...nothing like putting a little pressure on to perform...)    :omg:

Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Ty on April 21, 2007, 09:48:03 pm
Thanks Guys...

I'm shooting for the GreenBay opener to wring it out and work some bugs out, but really the big "debut" will be Fifield... and National Debut in Mendota..

That was my first National race and my first National podium finish in AP, so looking to repete in the new class...

(in fact, I think that was the first race ever for the "22 Special"...nothing like putting a little pressure on to perform...)    :omg:


Hope to see ya there , The club and I will be there . planning on bringing the monster mowers to it if you guys don't mind .Al is excited to check it out .Other than that great job again on the fx , can't wait to see how it does for the opener .
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on May 18, 2007, 08:03:04 pm
Hey Ty that was great that you brought out Goliath to the 141 race .... I do appreciate getting to see it in person and even more the opportunity to "test drive" 'er around the track and thru some infield "obsticals"...

As tall as that mowchine looks... It Is VERY Stable.. I was impressed as it walked over some "bumps" and felt sure footed as it crawled in granny gear never breaking a sweat...!!!

Very Cool..!!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on May 18, 2007, 08:06:47 pm
OK so the FX missed the opener in Green bay...

And I'm sitting here on a friday night the week end before the big Fifield race ...with no motor and no sign of the Big Brown Toy Truck...


Going on 7:pm...

Might as well just get a pizza and a movie.... :noplease:

Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on May 18, 2007, 08:15:48 pm
But wait...

What's that noise...???

Could it be..???


 :omg:


YES..!! It is...!!

The BBTT rolling down the drive at 7:04....:thumbsup:

And he has a package for ME...!!!   :woo:



OK Al.... >:D Gonna be a couple of late nights BUT  we'll be seeing YOU at the TRACK.... :badgrin:

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_MIB.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/MIB.jpg)

(and don't you never you mind what for those "extra" holes are for on the intake side...) :ninja:

Bwahh Haaa HaAAA HAAAAAA...  :maxevil:



Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Ty on May 18, 2007, 08:25:46 pm
I see that you have your motor FINALLY!!!!!!Any who , I'm Glad you had a fun playin with Goliath at the Green Bay opener .Sorry hat I haven't checked in much , been busy getting ready for our Pulaski race this Sunday .Plus been workin on finishing the wifes trike .It is ready fr paint .
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: money89tractors on May 19, 2007, 12:11:36 am
hmm i wonder what those extra holes could be for.... :confused:

-Phil
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: SeanStanley on May 19, 2007, 09:13:25 am
somebody's got a new fancy carburetor we haven't seen yet... :P
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: jamie_guy3 on May 19, 2007, 10:03:32 am
how come theres 2 breather tube on the block one i no but other i don't
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: mightymowe on May 19, 2007, 10:53:22 am
Order Don's DVD he talks about it in there.(the breather holes)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: SeanStanley on May 19, 2007, 01:15:49 pm
does it have to do with CVS
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on May 19, 2007, 03:50:36 pm
does it have to do with CVS
No, it's just an extra breather to help lower internal case pressure...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: jamie_guy3 on May 19, 2007, 03:55:10 pm
that meens you can get more power out of that lesspressure in base more power
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on May 19, 2007, 03:58:32 pm
This is one of those "little" things...but every "little" bit adds up and helps...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: jamie_guy3 on May 19, 2007, 04:20:59 pm
if you would putt a higher valve cover that would help to more air volume same as a stock car
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: SeanStanley on May 19, 2007, 06:07:15 pm
Crankcase Venting System

it works like a vacuum, when the piston changes from down to up, it creates a suction due to the lack of air in the pan. When you put a breather in there, it allows air to replace the suction ,giving you more horsepower
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: jamie_guy3 on May 19, 2007, 06:19:07 pm
to bad we cant make a bigger pan then you will a lots of room for air in a stock car the bigger the pan more hp you get it,s bind dyno test up to 80hp in a stock car if you put less oil in your pan allows you more air
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on May 19, 2007, 06:58:19 pm
Crankcase Venting System

it works like a vacuum, when the piston changes from down to up, it creates a suction due to the lack of air in the pan. When you put a breather in there, it allows air to replace the suction ,giving you more horsepower

I guess you could call it a "passive" CVS system.. Basicly opening up for more flow less resistance...Not quite a PCV system pulled on from either exhaust or intake negitive pressure... But by opening to atmosphere (filtered) it lessens the pulse charges and resultant drag...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: allen minaker on May 20, 2007, 02:41:55 pm
I got mine too !!!!!! that's why I haven't been on in afew days .

Your on for Fifield  :badgrin: And I don't worry about what your motor has on it or in it . I got SUPER GEORGE to build mine and have very little worry about your holes  :roll:.
I think I know what they are any how , alittle some thing to hold your carb on  :P LOL :lol:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on May 20, 2007, 08:14:01 pm
Rolling...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Rolling.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Rolling.jpg)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on May 20, 2007, 08:15:54 pm
From Al's viewpoint...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_BackView.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/BackView.jpg)


Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on May 20, 2007, 08:17:10 pm
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_NWRA.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/NWRA.jpg)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: sr71mopar on May 20, 2007, 08:27:53 pm
Very nice. Your workmanship is tops.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: crocco58 on May 20, 2007, 08:45:38 pm
Nice mower. It looks like it is a top notch and very reliable.do you have any pics of your engine?
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: money89tractors on May 20, 2007, 08:50:20 pm
Squidd, did this mowchine not come with rear fenders factory or did you just choose not to run them?
Very nice work, tell us, how does she run?

-Phil
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: jamie_guy3 on May 20, 2007, 09:24:58 pm
good job squidd like your mow
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: mowmaster on May 20, 2007, 10:11:28 pm
it looks like a good runner, but how does she do on the track?
Andrew
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: allen minaker on May 21, 2007, 03:03:52 am
From Al's viewpoint...




That's good to know what the lap traffic is going to look like , but it looks real nice all the way around .
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Ty on May 21, 2007, 10:02:17 pm
great job squidd!!!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: SeanStanley on May 22, 2007, 05:18:24 pm
i think i know what those inside holes on the intake side are for  :woo:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: jamie_guy3 on May 22, 2007, 05:40:58 pm
let go men tell has if it,s for power right to me in my message i don't race with you guys so come on tell me i am from north of Canada to fare
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: SeanStanley on May 22, 2007, 05:49:23 pm
i read somewhere
if you put a smaller intake on a larger engine, it compresses the fuel/air mixture
there for allowing for bigger compression
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on May 22, 2007, 06:30:01 pm
Well I got 'er fired up and lets just say I am getting some "frosting" issues as she sucks so much air thru a given manifold....

Give you just a teaser..... Don has supplied me with several manifold options...and during the course of this season we will be doing comparison runs and checks both "seat of my pants" and on a dyno...

Goal is to get to the "real" bottom of the short, mid and long manifold controversy...AND..as an added bonus...We'll be doing at least four exhaust length/diameter runs as well...(short-fat-long-skinny) at least a dozen runs planned...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: jamie_guy3 on May 22, 2007, 07:00:46 pm
come on squidd the men good body of mine right to me in my private message i wont to teach some people down here how a tractor fly when my back injury goes good i am off work until Sept.... that the only thing i can do is learned thanks body
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on May 22, 2007, 07:25:19 pm
Nothing to tell yet jamie...

The point is to scientificly test and document results both on the track and on a dyno, rather than bench racing B.S on what "should" work or "might" be better..

It's gonna take most of the summer on a dozen different tracks and a mid summer dyno run to get it all figured out...

Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: jamie_guy3 on May 22, 2007, 08:02:45 pm
you can give me some good stuf that i dont no yet
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: tractorracer12 on May 22, 2007, 10:06:02 pm
Oh ya i understand the frost i had frost the first minute i started up my Sp even.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: 300xdeere on May 23, 2007, 12:56:19 pm
Hey squidd do you mind getting a few pictures of the baby under the hood or are you keeping it under wraps?
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: redline on May 23, 2007, 01:33:01 pm
Squidd, that frosty manifold may help on a hot day...after your done with the race you could scrape it off and make snow-cones! As long as it isn't icing the carb you should be ok. Frozen throttle suck! Let us know how it turns out. Don't forget to calibrate that seat of pants dyno also!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Ty on May 23, 2007, 01:49:37 pm
how ya getting the frosting on the manifold , I know that you create more power with cold fuel , but how  is this achieved ?
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: redline on May 23, 2007, 02:14:15 pm
It happens because the air traveling through the manifold is at very high velocity...think high winds.....I think Squidd is working on something top secret here!!!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: allen minaker on May 23, 2007, 03:12:12 pm
Yeah , I started my motor from George and a winter storm front rolled in !!!! :werd: :lmfao: :rofl: :roflbow:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: redline on May 23, 2007, 03:29:22 pm
Well then, if we can coordinate allen and squidd statring their mowers at the same time we could possibly bring some much needed rain to wisconsin!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: allen minaker on May 23, 2007, 03:42:16 pm
 :lmfao: :lol2: :rofl:


I don't mean to talk smack but I don't think Squidd is going to want me to start mine . >:D
Well back to work , got lots to do to get ready for the BIG WEEKEND !!!!!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: mightymowe on May 26, 2007, 09:51:47 am
I predict that a longer intake that is not too big is going to produce the best torque off the corners and make the most power.The only thing I was thinking is that you might have to use one of the new flat slide carbs off of a four stroke dirt bike because you might need the accelerator pump on a long intake.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Josh705 on May 26, 2007, 08:21:34 pm
Wow that thing is nice, great job
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on June 24, 2007, 08:14:39 pm
OK... so as Most of you may have heard by now... debut race for the F/X went off with slightly less than desirable results...

Don G motor started and ran flawlessly... Mowchine pulled hard and fast and was a joy to ride...

Got a good run and pulled out side by side with Matt on the heat race....as I hadn't had many (any) laps on the new mowchine I decided to let him pull ahead "follow" him around getting a feel for the track and handling of mowchine...

F/X is a big change from A/P even with Don's 22 Special cranking the R's.. Torque from a Brigs OHV will pull the front wheels off the ground at 30 and still have a handful of throttle to grab...


I followed Matt around,  right on his tail, confident I had the power to make a pass at any given opportunity...Ran a high line and then a mid line to find his weak spot and was ready to pull on the low line next time round...

I glanced over my shoulder on lap 5 or 6 and saw we had a good 1/2 track on the rest of the pack...

I pulled high in 3 and made a dive on 4... Picking up speed I nicked a cone and felt a little jerk on the wheel as I entered the straight....

Next thing I knew I got rag dolled down the straight at 40-50 mph

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Fifield4.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Fifield4.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Fifield3.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Fifield3.jpg)


Dang that'll take the wind out of your sails in a hurry.. That or a broken rib poking your lung will make it hard to catch your breath...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Ribs.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Ribs.jpg)






Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on June 24, 2007, 08:22:46 pm
Any way, I though I may have hit the cone, got a little sideways and flipped 'er down the track....

But post mortem shows broken "cast" steering hub, that was driled, tapped and bolted to the steering shaft.... That, the little jerk I felt on the wheel just prior to being thrown and the pictures showing the wheel flying loose awfully soon in the accident..

Thought maybe the wheel was knocked loose when I flipped, but now I'm feeling fairly confident the hub snaped under pressure tossing me sideways and and causing the accident..

I'm replaceing it with a steel hub welded in place and much less chance of having the wheel breaking loose like that...no matter how many times it rolls...(may God forbid)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_SteeringHub.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/SteeringHub.jpg)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on June 24, 2007, 08:35:36 pm
Mowchine is back together, checked over, rewired, and fired..

Took 'er for a spin in the back yard test track and Hoo Doggie !!! :woo: ...Can't wait to get back out on the track..  :3gears:

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Rollingagain.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Rollingagain.jpg)

Hood has a little fiberglass Boo Boo and is getting patched as I write this... Should be good to go for some break in laps at Darlington next week and the Big Lawn Monkey rematch in Fifield Forth of July weekend...



Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: redline on June 24, 2007, 09:27:29 pm
Squidd, was any of the components on your wheel damaged? I.e. Digitron, master cylinder and brake lever? In the pics it looks like the wheel was whipping around pretty good! Just curious about the durability of the Digitron!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on June 24, 2007, 09:47:28 pm
Actually very little damage to any of the components...

Digi is mounted on flex mount in center of wheel and quite protected from any direct impact. (see discussion earlier in this thread on tach protection) re-mounted, hooked up, turned on and steady readings result.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Wheelmount.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Wheelmount.jpg)


Was worried about brake master but good shape, Nylon brake line was pulled out , cut an inch off and remounted with new brass ball, bled and works well..

Wires were ripped lose from tether, re soldered and function continues.

I did loose the the little red "button" on starter switch, but unit still functional.

Throttle cable was ripped loose from carb, straightened and replaced also functional.

The wheel itself I just pounded out straight and reused.

So other than a little bondo on the hood and the steel hub...no expense or delay in repair.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: tgames64 on June 25, 2007, 06:52:02 pm
You have us thinking about our cast steering hubs now.
You have raplaced it with a steel hub, I was wondering where you found this hub.Is it a steel brake disc off a tranny?
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: grassthrasher on June 25, 2007, 07:56:09 pm
omg that looks like a nasty fall hope you heal up well

thos are sum fast thinking pics

and that kinda makes me wannt to change sum parts of my stering cause my mower commes stock with a fabrick u joint that I think i mite change
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: George Herrin on June 25, 2007, 08:10:48 pm
I don't think the hub is an issue. I garantee my BP is heavier than that FX I barrel rolled mine last weekend and it landed on the sterring wheel bending it to the dash breaking the corner of the dash yet the hub is still very much intact. Did you have a lock collar below it or snap ring that is supposed to be there. Only time I have seen one break like that it was shoved down past the splines because the snap ring or a lock collar/stop was not in place to keep it from going down to far. That being the case it could have been forced down initially when tightening cracking it at that point thus it completely breaking under driving pressure. Plus it the nut was on it with a washer it still should have stayed attached to the column but the pictures shows other wise.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Snowman18 on June 25, 2007, 09:46:39 pm
Randy it's very plausible that the hub had stress cracks along or very near the through bolt (which appears may have contributed to the fracture) from the first incident and then in the next race when you clipped the cone that finished it. I also clipped a cone and yes it is almost as bad as clipping a bail, you definitely feel it in the wheel, I just checked my hub at it looks fine but I will inspect it closer (yes it's cast). I wonder what a billet steel one would cost?
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on June 25, 2007, 10:23:58 pm
Ths shaft the hub fit on is not a comercial splined "steering shaft".. with nut on top..

It's a 5/8 steel rod, short one as shown in steering set up pics a few pages back...

Cast hub had splines bored smooth, and drilled for a cross bolt... It may have been the thru bolt (actually a socket head bolt into shaft, not thru) that stressed the hub and cracked the collar...

New hub also has thru bolt but is also welded top and bottom to keep from sliding off..
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: George Herrin on June 26, 2007, 07:33:59 am
If mounted correctly and I use a lock collar as a stop not the snap ring, and the nut on top and or a bolt in it as a stock MTD shaft would provide, these hubs will stand up to about anything you dish out. Many have seen some of my crashes. In all my years racing and crashing I have broken only one. I did not have a stop under it and when it flipped it pushed the hub down past the splines splitting it yet the nut kept the wheel from flying off. They are designed to be mounted a certain way and cross drilling or altering that way could possibly comprimise the integrity of the part.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on June 26, 2007, 08:43:30 am
That may be it... looking at the piece the crack goes thru the cross drilled hole and the twist and torque it's subject to on that pivot may have been the contributing factor...

New piece is steel, welded top and bottom to to shaft prevent any movement with the additional thru bolt to add tortional strength (similar to welded collars on rest of steering links...)

This one should bend before it breaks and give me some warning....
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on July 15, 2007, 09:45:44 pm
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Fifieldheat.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Fifieldheat.jpg)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_FifieldFeature.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/FifieldFeature.jpg)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: tgames64 on July 16, 2007, 09:34:43 am
 :lol2:

And is this your way of saying the shoulder and rib are all better now and the other F/X's have something else to worry about??

Hope so, looks like you were having fun.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on July 16, 2007, 07:57:43 pm
Yep, it's been a slow start this season for me and the FX but things are starting to change...

Shouilder is feeling good and ribs aren't bothering me as much so I ran the AP in Darlington two weeks ago and then brought the FX out to Fifield to get back on the horse that threw me...

For the heat I drew a number near the back of the pack but a quick starting Donny G motor pulled me to the front by the first turn....You can see by the pictures it was a narrow line to run, but the Squidd built chassis held the line I put 'er in.. Felt real good to hold the checkered in the first race I was able to finish on the FX...

Feature race I was positioned in the front and another quick start got me the lead which I held for most of the race...

The chassis once again handled well and ran the line I placed 'er in...unfortunatly that "line" included clipping the cone that put me in the Hospital last time out... Spinning out in the same place., same corner  and at the same speed can get the old heart just a pumping .... :woo:

This time the chassis adjustments (and keeping the steering wheel attached) I was able to ride it out and spun to the infield, pack went by and I pulled back out to play "catch up" that didn't take long, but the track line wasn't conducive to passing, so we ran a "train"...

Coming round to turn 4 again, I see my arch nemisis..."the cone"... had placed itself out in the middle of the track to try to get me...

I wasn't giving no quarter and ran the bugger over squarely so as not to spin out... Of course that took my chain off from underneath and ended the race for the day for me, but still the day felt successful for me...

Mowchine ran good, took a flag and let me walk home under my own power...Can't ask for much mower than that....

OK fine... :mad:  I want one of those big plastic trophy's to show my friends and sponsors....  :oops:

Wait till next week.... :badgrin:

Oh..and those "R-T" boys...ain't got a chance...Buahh Haa Haa Haaaaa >:D




 

Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: mowdak1 on July 16, 2007, 09:18:49 pm
Someone duct tape a cone on his hood before leaves the track next time, so he can learn to drive around them! :D

Dude that is too funny, since you walked away this time!! One of these days, those cones will learn to stay out of your way! :lmfao:

Way to go Randy!! You'll get 'em next time, there's no doubt in my mind!!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: THawley08 on July 17, 2007, 12:00:21 am

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Fifield4.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Fifield4.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Fifield3.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Fifield3.jpg)


Dang that'll take the wind out of your sails in a hurry.. That or a broken rib poking your lung will make it hard to catch your breath...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Ribs.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Ribs.jpg)








Whoops!!!! LOL That looks like it hurt!!! Good thing I have never had a spill like that. "knocks on wood"
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Robert Sparbel on July 17, 2007, 01:31:25 pm
Hey squidd, we are all G-Team drivers so if we take 1 2 3 that aint bad!  :D

Besides I have always said "if you can't take first take the press!"  8)

Looking forward to Glenwood City this week end, does anyone know if the monkey will be there?
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: diesel on July 17, 2007, 03:09:09 pm
Remember I always keep an extra cone right under the hood to plunk out there in the field-- You cant escape the dreaded cones now that i know your secret!!!!! :woo:

Maybe I shale bring two cones just in case the track officials use only hay instead of cones squidd.  And hey no pulling strings there pally :)

See you next race

Diesel

P.S. In the heat I happen to have found a cone as well but the old R&T Racing chassis levitated just before it hit and floated right over it--- hahah not
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on July 18, 2007, 11:07:18 pm
We'll be seeing you boys in Glenwood..

1-2-3 is good.. you boys will have to fight over 2 and 3 though..   :badgrin:

I don't think Als gonna make it being a Michigan national weekend (Sparta) and all..

That's too bad... he and I still haven't had a head to head yet... >:D But it's coming...

Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: George Herrin on July 18, 2007, 11:12:54 pm
I believe he has the FX back to gether. Head is fixed. I havn't spoke to him this week. But he should be ready. MAYBE... LOL
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Robert Sparbel on July 19, 2007, 08:25:05 am
Hey Randy,
2nd or 3rd is just fine by me! Heck I'm just happy to be there and if I happen to take a trophy home even better  :D.



Quote
I believe he has the FX back to gether. Head is fixed. I havn't spoke to him this week. But he should be ready. MAYBE... LOL

Yep I just spoke to Al yesterday, he was doing the same thing I was at the mowment (running to parts stores). He said he had a diff head he was putting on and all should be good to go.  ;)

Even with the MI race I think we should have a good feild of FX mowchines this week end...



Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: diesel on July 19, 2007, 12:16:42 pm
Dont forget levitation is key  :abducted:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Robert Sparbel on July 19, 2007, 02:39:20 pm
 :hmmm:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Robert Sparbel on July 23, 2007, 06:23:08 pm
Hey Squidd,

What did I tell you, 1,2,3 both in the heat and feature!!! All G-Team motors...

It was cool racing with you!

I guess we will see you in MN next for the double header...

Take care,

Robert
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on July 23, 2007, 06:38:36 pm
Yeah, that was cool... you guys are moving right along keeping me on my toes...

It's a great feeling when a chassis and motor combo comes together and this one has a lot of untapped potential in it yet.. so to do well especially against prepared mowchines like the R and T racing stable and G-Team motors... well it kinda gets a guy all warm and fuzzy inside...


(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_GlenWood.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/GlenWood.jpg)

And yep looking forward to MN double header...wasn't sure how this season was gonna run out, but I'm healing and feeling well and the mowchines is running great.. so let's ride...!!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: diesel on July 24, 2007, 10:21:11 am
Squidd, nice job racing there bud --- nice job --- see you at the next races--- congradulations on that 1st place finish. Apparently I forgot to levitate :)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on August 27, 2007, 05:39:12 pm
Minnesota wasn't a bad run and did learn a few things there..

Austin was a dry track with a few bumbs and a narrow line, I had a :censored: number like 12th out of 17 or so but moved up to 3rd position rather quickly held it for most all the  Race  (http://www.uslmra.com/forum/index.php?topic=226.msg676#msg676) with only Mike Miller and Kevin Penny up front, that says a bit...

Last lap caution regrouped us with Lapped traffic for a green/white/checkered and I gave up a few positions in the resultant cluster, but overall I was happy with the way the mowchine dove into the corners..

(edit: late correction in scoring error, I did finish 3rd)

Morris was a super fine sticky sweet track the like of which we rarely see... something about that MN black tarmac (and mix of cow manure) that holds the moisture and blue grooves in the heats.. That track was tight, meaning lotta line and lotta traction... was hard to get low enough in gearing with the tires gripping so much..

Again a back pac start (I don't wanna talk about my heat racing) from 11 or 12 needed a quick jump to 5 moved to 4 and was working on Robert Sparbal to take over 3rd... Was "waiting" for him to make a mistake so I could pass, but he don't make mistakes (good run Robert) next time I'm just gonna have to take it from him... I think my G-Team motor can beat his G-Team motor...:lol:  Finished 4th (http://www.uslmra.com/forum/index.php?topic=227.msg678#msg678)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_MorrisAustin.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/MorrisAustin.jpg)


Learned a lot in those two races, mowchine is handling well, made some changes to gearing and clutch springs so each time out should be a little better..

One more Local...then off to Ohio...

Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Robert Sparbel on September 06, 2007, 10:11:14 am
Quote
moved to 4 and was working on Robert Sparbal to take over 3rd... Was "waiting" for him to make a mistake so I could pass, but he don't make mistakes (good run Robert) next time I'm just gonna have to take it from him... I think my G-Team motor can beat his G-Team motor... Finished 4th

Wow, I have been so busy with the BP builds and other stuff going on in the R&T shop that I have been away from Heymow site and have fallen behind on my reading...  :D

Thank you for the kind words Squidd, I had a blast running with you in MN and in Iron River WI and more recently in Ohio. I hope you didn't hurt your OHV too bad in that last race  :doh:
I can't wait for medford (our last race of the year) only a couple weeks away...

talk to you soon
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on September 07, 2007, 12:34:31 am
I hope you didn't hurt your OHV too bad in that last race  :doh:
I can't wait for medford (our last race of the year) only a couple weeks away...

talk to you soon

Yes, well  :oops: the new super light weight "Half Rockers" ain't all their cracked up to be... :noplease:


(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_HalfRocker.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/HalfRocker.jpg)

Then again by moving the valve over a 1/2"...we were able to eliminate some of the valve/plug shrouding... Just doesn't seal as well as it used to....:lol:


(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Anglevalve.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Anglevalve.jpg)

We'll be back bigger and "Badder" for Medford...  :maxevil:

Me and the monkey only got one last shot at both finishing the "same" race...

Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: greenmachine on September 07, 2007, 01:48:29 am
WOW .....Unbeleivable how it punched through clean like that, looks like the hole was actually drilled for the valve in the pic...... Now all ya gotta do is punch the other side through, put in 2 more valves, and a couple more half rockers and you'll have a 4 valve head :D

Wish ya better luck to finish out the season
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: allen minaker on September 07, 2007, 02:14:38 am
Well with the kind of luck that I have Squidd your having a GOOD day of racing if that's all that happened !!! But I ALWAYS HAVE A SMILE !!!!!

Really that does SUCK , but not really that hard of a fix - REPLACE IT  :D

I really would like to run you on a day that we are both on the top of our games , I don't think it would be the ending of the season that you were hoping for  :badgrin:

I don't like to say to much but the year has changed and I have already finished a nation race UNDERPOWER !!! and Medford is the place I won my firrst race at !!! Don't think I'm going to let you beat me there .

Sorry I don't have the time I used to for the PUTTER but I have been all over this year and have to work my butt off to be able to and my hook up SUCKS !!!!!!

Sorry I havn't given them a proper schooling with your motor George But IT COMING !!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: George Herrin on September 07, 2007, 07:45:30 am
Broke rockers generally mean valve bind and with a broke rocker AND the tip broke off the valve I would say Valve bind. Not enough spring pressure and or too much But too much generall pulls a stud out. Multiple problems from what I see. Been there done that!!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Robert Sparbel on September 07, 2007, 09:51:15 am
Quote
We'll be back bigger and "Badder" for Medford... 


I cant wait, I was telling Tim the other day that Medford is going to be a blast! With the FX guys we know will be there and some other possibilities from the north and south it should be a great day of racing and hanging out!

Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: mowinmachine on September 12, 2007, 07:52:59 pm
That's totally what it is. The mower has those exact same rails around the engine. I wasn't able to tell what kind of tranny is on it, but that can be remedied. We sort of run "outlaw" in our racing group, so it would be interesting to have such a small mower out there. I just like the idea of having something small enough to just about pick up and throw in the back of the truck.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: MowPower31 on October 03, 2007, 11:03:08 pm
Where did u get your R.A.G.B.? I found some on a web site but they dont look like yours. I was wondering who makes it or wat would be a good one to use, the ones ive been finding have been kinda big. I haver also been looking around on bushhogs cause i know alot of them use R.A.G.B.'s.

Thanks,
John
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on October 06, 2007, 05:40:54 pm
I got the RAGBs off e-bay advertised as off an older craftsman mower deck...

There was a pair of them driving two blades... $30 for the lot....
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: greenmachine on October 06, 2007, 06:33:35 pm
You can find them on old cub cadet garden tractors too. They used a R.A.G.B. to operate rear tillers on the garden tractors.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: MowPower31 on October 07, 2007, 12:22:00 am
Ok thanks alot i know where theres a couple of cubs sitting around so ill go check them out.

Thanks for all the help,
John
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: greenmachine on October 07, 2007, 12:59:08 am
Ok thanks alot i know where theres a couple of cubs sitting around so ill go check them out.

Thanks for all the help,
John

Just look at the rear where the hitch is on the cubs, it bolted on in place of the hitch and then the hitch was bolted to it. it was a bolt on addition for those that had the tillers. IIRC they had about 4" pullies on 5/8" shafts on both ends so they would be easy to adapt for racing.

Don't see one on ebay right now but at the bottom of the pic of the tiller in this ad you can see the RAGB attachment.
http://cgi.ebay.com/cub-cadet-rototiller-tiller-40-in-complete_W0QQitemZ290166355364QQihZ019QQcategoryZ29519QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem (http://cgi.ebay.com/cub-cadet-rototiller-tiller-40-in-complete_W0QQitemZ290166355364QQihZ019QQcategoryZ29519QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: nic_hayes on October 11, 2007, 10:44:49 pm
squidd, were those shafts on your ragb 3/4 in i'm surfing around the net trying to find one that my kart clutch will fit, thanks
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on October 11, 2007, 10:53:06 pm
These were originally 3/4" input and 7/8" output to mower blade...

But the way I run them is up thru the 7/8" (engine clutch/chain to vertical sprocket) then 3/4" horizontal shaft sprocke to to axle sprocket...

But you could run direct to bottom and clutch to axle... I may try that setup my self, if I don't go Sidewinder motor this year...

Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on October 14, 2007, 04:31:35 pm
Last race of the 07 WILMRA season...Medford...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_MedfordChampionship014.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/MedfordChampionship014.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_MedfordChampionship016.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/MedfordChampionship016.jpg)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: sr71mopar on October 21, 2007, 06:38:10 pm
Hey Squidd, did that mower come with rear fenders? Seth(mowinmachine) picked one of those up, and it came without rear fenders, but it looks like it used to have them.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on October 21, 2007, 07:20:20 pm
Mine didn't "come" with fenders , but it may have had some on at some point... (mounting holes)

I believe Al (Lawnmonkey) has original fenders on his if you need a measurement or photo to duplicate
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: nic_hayes on October 21, 2007, 07:22:25 pm
squidd, what size rear tires are you running, thanks
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on October 21, 2007, 07:59:47 pm
12x8-6 Burris TX-22
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: nic_hayes on October 21, 2007, 08:05:18 pm
thanks, i have some burris 11x5.5-6 would these work ok with those rear tires?
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: nic_hayes on October 24, 2007, 11:27:39 pm
hey squidd what did you use for your side panels? thanks
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on October 24, 2007, 11:33:36 pm
thanks, i have some burris 11x5.5-6 would these work ok with those rear tires?
I've always found it easier to buy the material to "fit the plan" than to modify the plan to fit the material.....
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 04, 2007, 09:03:31 pm
One of the few things I was not comfortable with on this ride was the seat...

With the G-Forces this mowchine develops in the corners (especially off side "chicane" corners) I felt I was being tossed and sliding in the seat causing me to tense my body and work to maintain position with my legs...

This leads to an uncomfortable ride and a sore tired driver at the end of 20...

So in order to become more "One with the Mowchine" I added a second thigh wing and additional padding to the seat to complete a true bucket and a tight lock on my torso...

Will be testing it out in Tennessee  next week, but trial fits are very comfotrtable...
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_BucketSeat.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/BucketSeat.jpg)


Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: nic_hayes on November 09, 2007, 11:15:22 pm
squidd, i'm getting ready to buy some of the 12x8-6 burris tires for my fx but i'm not sure what size rims to get, what did you use on yours, thanks
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 09, 2007, 11:20:11 pm
I have 9" and I think they are too wide...

Suggest the 8" units...

I plan on replacing mine with 6"x8" Beadlock rims from G team before next season...

Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: nic_hayes on November 09, 2007, 11:23:02 pm
thats kinda what i was thinking just because the tires are 8 in wide, but you know how many different rims there are, thanks again
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: George Herrin on November 10, 2007, 09:22:34 am
Even the tire manufacturers recommend running wider rims on rear than tire. The idea is less sidewall flex. More tire on the ground and a more sure feel instead of a wiggle or loose feel from the sidewalls flexing. Now on front most manufacturer recommend same size rim as tire. Go to a kart track you will see tires on as much a 2 inch wider rims. It helps with stagger also by giving a different overall dia by stretching tire sides out.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on November 10, 2007, 09:33:13 am
Well I rolled it off the rim twice now and that can make a hairy ride..

I have not found tubes to direct fit a 12 x 8 -6

I like the sidewall stance, but not the tire pressure I need run to keep them on the rim..

If I could find tubes I'd stay with the wider rims

Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: nic_hayes on November 10, 2007, 11:29:20 am
I'm not sure if they make tubes for those tires squidd, they are a tubeless tire but you could check burris's website or maybe they have a number you could call, later
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 04, 2007, 08:23:14 pm
I know I ain't the first Kid on the Block to have a set of these.. but purt near...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_head3.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/head3.jpg)
Sweet little items, excellent fit and finish and the cover still fits...

Gonna be the start of one solid lightweight high revving little OHV build...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_head2.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/head2.jpg)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: George Herrin on December 04, 2007, 08:42:27 pm
Quite honestly Randy you were the FIRST one to have them in hand!!! Jed was the first to have a set of twins he was running them at Ooltewah, and he now has them for the  single also. Use your lash caps!!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 04, 2007, 08:45:35 pm
Quite honestly Randy you were the FIRST one to have them in hand!!!

Cool... 8)

Quote
Use your lash caps!!

Good thing you mentioned that... Glad I didn't toss them out yet...  :oops:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: George Herrin on December 04, 2007, 08:49:41 pm
The lash caps give a broader base and helps ease the stress on everything and spreads the load out more evenly. briggs had SOME good ideas.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Mowindown on December 04, 2007, 08:54:49 pm
Does the V-twins run lash caps?
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: George Herrin on December 04, 2007, 09:11:38 pm
No they don't the biggest reason for them on the single is the long rocker ratio. The twins are much less.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: stubbysteve on December 04, 2007, 09:37:45 pm
No they don't the biggest reason for them on the single is the long rocker ratio. The twins are much less.

Now i'm really confused!!! what are lash caps? I opened my stock 14.5 ohv single and don't know what you are talking about. Do they come with the new rockers??
help..... pic please...... never mind i found out :doh:
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Mowindown on December 04, 2007, 09:40:50 pm
If you look on top of the valve stem right where the rocker arm makes contact with the valve stem you will find the lash caps.  Most of the time they will come right off with the rocker arm out of the way.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: stubbysteve on December 06, 2007, 08:04:50 pm
If you look on top of the valve stem right where the rocker arm makes contact with the valve stem you will find the lash caps.  Most of the time they will come right off with the rocker arm out of the way.
'

yeah sorry, (man i feel stupid) i remembered when i rebuilt my v-twin, i didn't see any, and then i remembered that on the singles they do.  also George, how much hp do these free up? or can you even put a # on it, or is it just so that every thing moves easier, less friction(?)my engine is a 14.5 ohv briggs Don's cam, block, head work,etc.(no crank,rod, or piston yet)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 06, 2007, 08:37:05 pm
You can see where the caps both spread the load across the roller on the rocker... but also downforce is split over valve end and retainer to spring.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_DSC00001b.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/DSC00001b.jpg)

The extra height also brings the rocker geometry in line... an 1/8" off can change cam and lift effect.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: stubbysteve on December 06, 2007, 08:59:55 pm
You can see where the caps both spread the load across the roller on the rocker... but also downforce is split over valve end and retainer to spring.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_DSC00001b.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/DSC00001b.jpg)

The extra height also brings the rocker geometry in line... an 1/8" off can change cam and lift effect.


hey thanks, were you just using just one to show me the difference, or do you just use one?
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 06, 2007, 09:02:39 pm
That head is still loose and on the bench... just a shot for comparison...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: stubbysteve on December 06, 2007, 09:04:34 pm
That head is still loose and on the bench... just a shot for comparison...

kool, thanks a lot. have to remember that.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: birdman_express on December 06, 2007, 09:09:19 pm
kool, thanks a lot. have to remember that.

Ah oh... this means you have to buy him a suit... LOL



Randy, what struck you the most when you first saw these rockers?
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 06, 2007, 09:34:20 pm
Strength... no more "Half Rockers"..

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_HalfRocker.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/HalfRocker.jpg)

Then I'm seeing smooth action so less pressure to actuate rocker, which can then be applied to keeping valve from floating = higher rpm potential...

Still have weak link of the casting lugs, but there is a way to reinforce them... Maybe pics after this weekend...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: George Herrin on December 06, 2007, 10:12:38 pm
very good desriptions Randy Thanks, I could not have said it better myself...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 07, 2007, 03:37:32 pm
There's more to them than just good looks...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: birdman_express on December 07, 2007, 07:48:40 pm
There's more to them than just good looks...

And that is why I asked your opinion of them.

Folks, that was totally unsolicited.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: mightymowe on December 07, 2007, 10:51:01 pm
How do those rockers mount? Are they on the original studs?
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: George Herrin on December 07, 2007, 11:00:10 pm
They mount on their own pedestal mount which sets on top of the original cast pedestals and are supplied with their own studs.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: johnboy on December 10, 2007, 08:56:52 pm
Is the original pushrod guide plate used with these rockers or is it  omitted?    Thanks   johnboy
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 10, 2007, 09:45:22 pm
I'm going to run without.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: George Herrin on December 10, 2007, 10:54:36 pm
You can run it either way!!! I don't like em they tend to touch occaisionally ever seen the wear marks on tha stocker aluminum push rod. Well rubbing is friction and to me that is drag I don't want. BUT some folks swear by em. BUT you can do it wither way personal prefferance. BUT YOU MUST run the lash caps.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: amcchevy1 on December 10, 2007, 11:48:23 pm
Strength... no more "Half Rockers"..
  hey squiid that head looks like mine did, except i had 3 other holes where my valve played pick-a-boo with my rocker
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: mowinmachine on December 20, 2007, 11:53:19 am
Hi Squidd,
Had a question for you. Where did you find your larger 3/4" sprocket for the output on your RAGB? I've found plenty of 10-20 tooth units, but I've spent hours trying to find anything larger than 20 tooth with a 3/4" bore. thanks in advance.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on December 20, 2007, 11:57:53 am
McMaster-Carr

http://www.mcmaster.com

They have all bore sizes , tooth counts and chain pitch you could ever need....
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: mowinmachine on December 20, 2007, 12:10:16 pm
Wow. That's the best parts site I've ever seen. You just saved me hours of fiddling around. Thanks!!!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: mowinmachine on January 07, 2008, 10:52:42 am
Hi Squidd,
Had a question for you. I was trying to determine what would make for a good seating position for my FX build. After doing some thinking, I see that I came to the same conclusion that you did, which would be that it would be better to mount the seat a bit higher so you'd be leaning over the steering wheel a bit.That would bring more weight towards the front.  I tried this and it seems to feel better anyhow. It also gives me more legroom for the pedals since the build is rather short. I'm 5 ft 7", so the shorter build isn't a big issue. I plan on mounting the seat almost directly over, or slightly in front of the rear wheels.

 Anyhow, I was seeing how your seat position worked out for you. How prone are these types of mowers to flip backwards? Thanks in advance.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on January 07, 2008, 11:31:12 am
Not as bad as you might think, but it is a compilation of things which will get you to flip...

They get great traction with the wide Kart tirea (but you want that)
The seat can be forward, even or Back of the axle (forward is better)
HP and Torque "powers" the upward travel (Hp and torque are good)
Clutch engagement probably plays the biggest role (lower from dead start/higher on rolling start)
And of course how long you hold the go lever down (hold down go fast)

If you get three or four of these working against you....your going over.. but for the most part they are pretty stable..
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: mowinmachine on January 07, 2008, 12:08:17 pm
That's good to hear then. I suppose handling will come with practice then. I'm going to drill a few adjustment holes for the seat bracket in case there is a slight back flipping tendency. Anyhow, thanks for the input. Building will go as planned!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on February 11, 2008, 08:59:00 pm
OK last trip out (Tennessee Invitationals) I snapped a crank and didn't get to race...

Long ride for no track time  (Sami did win her class though so we had plenty to celebrate)

I decided I need a back up motor for just such occasions, or at least a spare crank in the trailer to save the day... I run a shortened stub crank balanced to my rod and Piston so just "any" crank wont do (I know Don warned me about running "special" parts) so I'll just make more...

My current motor is repaired and running and will become my backup and next seasons motor will be bad as I can get it (I won't go bigger,even though some places let you run them and some people run them where they shouldn't ... rules state 465cc and I'll stand for a displacement check any day they do them... )

You've already seen the roller rockers I got from George at EC...
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_head2.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/head2.jpg)

Mounted on a fresh head two angle valve job and porting...well lets just say George and I had a long talk (no he didn't give away his hard earned secrets but he did tell me where to look for enlightenment ...


Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on February 11, 2008, 09:14:04 pm
Cranks are shortened for clutch clearance, then the Syncro lobes are trued to the shaft

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Crank-1.jpg) (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/?action=view&current=Crank-1.jpg)

Weights are cut on a mill for consistency and welded on in proper position

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Weld.jpg) (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/?action=view&current=Weld.jpg)

If your gonna steal someones ideas, at least give credit where it is due... I got a lot of these by "reverse engineering" parts I purchased from Don at G-Team...this based on his techniques that he shares in his videos I just took the idea and made it out of hard steel...

So please don't ask for weights and measurements and part numbers... Buy your Parts from Don...and go from there...

I hope your taking all this as a compliment Don... Imitation is the most sincere form of flattery  :D
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on February 11, 2008, 09:19:01 pm
As long as I'm in there setting up the pan, I machined out enough space to insert a thrust bearing for the crank to ride on...


These are relatively common parts if you know where to look... and I've mentioned my favorite parts house a number of times...


(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Thrustbearing.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Thrustbearing.jpg)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: nic_hayes on February 11, 2008, 09:51:40 pm
Hey Squidd, what caused your crank to break. Is there anything that can be done to prevent this? thanks
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: George Herrin on February 11, 2008, 09:58:52 pm
I been doing alot of research on this. I feel that especially with the amount of compression we run on these OHV motor's that we run way to high a timing. These motors on gas should run no more than 30* btdc timing. And the only way to get that right is using a degree wheel and dail indicator. Simply put the more timing you use the harder hit that crank takes when it fires. Fuel grade plays a role also.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: nic_hayes on February 11, 2008, 10:02:38 pm
Ok George, makes sense, I just started running an arc flywheel. What timing mark would be the best one to run to avoid this but still make good power? Thanks
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on February 11, 2008, 10:18:30 pm
I would have to say advanced timing as well, along with the poor fuel grade I used that day...

Those are the only two things that changed from winning at Medford one week (after a full year of no troubles whatsoever)  and snapping the crank during warm up two weeks later...

I advanced the timing to the middle of the ARC range that day and the fuel I used was less than 25% 110 and 75%  89 oct.   50/50 might have helped...

I usually run at the first or second mark on the - side of the wheel...and 50/50 turbo blue and premium
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: George Herrin on February 11, 2008, 10:21:09 pm
FULLnegative. Not all are the same. But using a stock key thats as close as you will get to 30 without retarding. Least wise on the one's I have checked recently.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: 97supra on February 19, 2008, 09:56:57 pm
wowowow  Squidd   this mower is really sweet. I dont wanna be annoying, but where did you people go to learn this stuff about timing and how to take a motor apart and make your own crank stuff etc..  LOL  id hurt myself =] good job squidd, and i really have to say Don   even if people copy your ideas, you are the true holder of the honor =P  good job everyone
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: mowinmachine on March 03, 2008, 10:47:28 am
Hi Randy,
I was wondering about whether you have a problem running without fenders. Mine didn't come with any.Since we both have Grants mowers, I assume yours didn't either. Whether mine ever had them, I'm not sure. If that be the case, I am assuming that it's ok to run without them? According to ARMA, which is the organization we race under, if the mower came with fenders, you have to race with them.

 If so, do you have any issues with mud getting flung up in the air? Thanks!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on March 03, 2008, 11:05:01 am
Mine did not come with fenders...meaning it did not have fenders on it when I found it in the scrap yard... so I run without.

Al (Lawnmonkey) has one as well and does have fenders so he runs with them (check pictures 2nd page)


Even if you had fenders..in their stock size and location.... they would not help with mud flinging..Because now you are 10" wider...

Most of the mud in your face comes from your Front tires and the rear tires of the guys in front of you...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: mowinmachine on March 03, 2008, 11:33:00 am
hmmm... well, those fenders on his mowchine look fairly useless but simple to make if I had to have them. I'll consult with our group leader and see what my options are. I expect to get absolutely filthy anyway since the wheels are 2 feet away and the mud is going to probably go right through the wire mesh of the foot rests.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: nor66 on March 03, 2008, 11:54:03 am
Like Squidd said you are going to get the mud from the front tires and the guy in front of you! You will be suprised how little mud comes from the floorboards, and usually the rear tires are only going to sling mud towards you at slow speeds once you get them spinning the mud goes out the back!  At one track I run at they use the mowers to pack it in and when you are moving slow you get covered in mud but once you get it moving pretty good it nearly stops. For the most part once you are out there to race dust will be your only concern.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on March 25, 2008, 11:02:17 pm
Continuing with the new motor build I just received my Tilly carb from EC Distributing...

Stage 1 Blueprint, Polished and Velocity stack, this thing is so shiney....I can seriously see myself in the throttle plate...:omg:

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_TillyCarb.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/TillyCarb.jpg)

With a larger bore than any Walbro, this thing should move some serious fuel/air mixture...which will be a nice match to the new Precision Cam...
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: George Herrin on March 25, 2008, 11:36:08 pm
Glad you like!!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on March 26, 2008, 02:33:46 pm
Oh yeah I like it..  :D

Pic from the back shows where all that extra breathing will be coming from compared to a Walbro...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Backside.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Backside.jpg)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on April 07, 2008, 05:57:16 pm
Got the motor built and carb mounted, in the process of breaking 'er in..

Even in these first few runs, I can tell a difference in sound and rate of acceleration with the new cam/carb combo...much "throatier" and crisper sounding and still has the quick bump and start capability (which is a neccessity in USLMRA) :thumbsup:

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/th_Tilly.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/Tilly.jpg)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: nor66 on April 07, 2008, 09:44:10 pm
I hope the crank stays together. That carb is Bad!!!
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: cycloneracer on April 08, 2008, 08:43:27 am
Randy,
How do you like your pop rivets that you used to put your side panels on?  I am going to need to make some shields for the sides of my engine and was wondering how to make them.

Did you have any problems with them shearing off from the vibration?

Paul

Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on April 08, 2008, 09:01:46 am
I hope the crank stays together. That carb is Bad!!!
Me too... if not I have the process for building more balanced cranks down to a science...
Randy,
How do you like your pop rivets that you used to put your side panels on?  I am going to need to make some shields for the sides of my engine and was wondering how to make them.

Did you have any problems with them shearing off from the vibration?

Paul



I've only lost one and the rest seem to be holding tight, of course I don't have any flex in the chassis with the way it's boxed and triangulated..
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: lil orange on January 22, 2009, 08:15:20 pm
mower looks good love the purple 8)
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Seth Brunson on January 23, 2009, 02:04:45 am
how much would a brotha have to shell out to get a tilly like that.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: markiemark on January 23, 2009, 10:36:24 am
Check out e.c site they got different stages going from $250 up to $600+
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Squidd on July 03, 2009, 08:43:52 am
This mower for sale or trade...

http://www.heymow.com/index.php?topic=11161.msg120019#new
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: turftracracer19 on March 02, 2010, 10:32:54 pm
Front axle will be based off EC Dist. front spindles.. (these things are "smooooth" George):twothumbsup:

Had George cut the keyway for Hegar front brakes (which will be coming later in the build) the sealed bearings are glass smooth and the adjustabilty  for caster, camber, and ride height will be much appreciated (and used)..

Also had the steering arms left loose so I can place them where needed after axle is located...

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/ECFront.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/Squidd/ECFront.jpg)

I used the ACME "Fun Cart" type spindles on my AP and even after refitting with brass bushings, grease zerks, and reinforcing the arms...there is no comparison..

These are going to  be "WAY" better, smoother and hold ajustment "tighter"...Definetly worth the money...:thumbsup:


so how much did these cost? i want to put adjustable spindles on my racer next year but dont trust myself to build them.lol
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: Wheel Horse Man on July 27, 2011, 07:41:53 pm
Nice mower. It looks like it is a top notch and very reliable.do you have any pics of your engine?

Can you say JINX..... lol kinda ironic considering what happened the first race.... not really funny but i thought it was ironic
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: jeff_lalonde on September 20, 2012, 10:48:54 pm
Squidd how does the wilwood handlebar mounted master work with the MCP caliper? I am looking at changing to the wilwood master if I can find where to buy one because right now I am trying to actuate the MCP master with a brake lever and cable & it just doesn't get enough movement to work the caliper well.
Title: Re: Let's Build an F/X..!!!
Post by: blake hasting on April 25, 2013, 04:20:26 am
what gauge square tubing did you use on chasis? and what is the total length and width of the chasis?