Heymow - Lawnmower Racing Forum

Mower Building / Setup Help => Project Builds => Racing Mower Builds => Topic started by: Tom Fox on October 20, 2006, 09:56:54 pm

Title: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Tom Fox on October 20, 2006, 09:56:54 pm
Didn't start the build but will continue to post progress along the way.

Here is the mower as she sits:

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0010.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0010.jpg)


1986 Craftsman II, 14 hp Twin Cylinder.

Got the tractor for free and she runs without smoken!!

Plans are to Strip down to bare frame, install motor plate and transmission, install a live axle, Peerless 350 transmission, Run the 14hp twin cylinder til she blows!

Here's the hard to find PEERLESS 350 3 speed transmission!!

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0013-2.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0013-2.jpg)


Stay tuned for further updates!!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on October 21, 2006, 06:15:27 pm
Started some of the teardown today. Didn't have much time (wife had me putting a new tile floor in the bathroom), but it is amazing what 15 minutes and a 9/16" socket can do!!

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0004-1.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0004-1.jpg)

Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Squidd on October 21, 2006, 09:04:24 pm
Mowman...can you read us the tag...?

I tried blowing up the pic, but can't get a number off it...

Thanks...
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on October 21, 2006, 11:27:53 pm
Numbers on tag:
MOD 350A
5139  6449
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Squidd on October 22, 2006, 01:15:41 pm
OK...Here's the word from the G-Man himself...on the 350 vs 400 debate!!!

Quote
Hello Guys,
Well looks like I have to change my settings on Mow Better Forum so I get some of this coming my way again.
Seems there are tons of questions about my Favorite Trany. The Peerless 350/400. So here I am to answer some questions.
So here goes.
The Peerless 350 or 400 trany are the same dam trany!!! But the 350 has bushings and the 400 has bearings. The 400 also has TWO output shafts some people think. But in fact the 400 has one output and one Brake shaft.
Now both the 350 and 400 have all the same gearing on the inside. Same shift pattern and so on.
The 350 SHOULD NEVER BE RACED WITHOUT ME OR G TEAM REBUILDING IT!! The reason is I have a race proven recipe that will make it into a durable racing trany. 350 with bushing can't be raced in anyway before mods are done.
The 400 has bearings and has lube and that is good. WAY better then the 350. BUT it does not have a vent and will push out oil when it heats up and cools down. The thrust bearings are good but have a plastic cage. I use steel!!
The 350 and 400 trany are made for 1,200 rpms input only!!! So mods have to be done to both for them to stand up.
So why is my work so cool? I replace all bushing for bearings. I DON'T get them from the small engine dealer. I buy from my local bearing supply store.
I have a special mix of bearings. ALL the bearings are NOT what the factory 400 comes with.
The seals are special too. They look and work like the factory seals but again it is a G Team Trick.
Also the input shaft is special. It is NOT for a 350 or 400 but for another Peerless trany. What so cool about it? Length, key way and there is threads in the end of the shaft to put an bolt in to use in many ways.
I charge $150 plus $15 for S&H to go over one of either of these tranys. I put a vent in it too so it can breath like your trucks has. I weld your gears to the outputshaft. I remove reverse and 3rd since most SP, BP and CP racing mowers don't need them. If you run AP and or want 3rd left in I can do that. But Reverse does spin all the time for no reason robbing HP so I remove it.
Know this one final thing. There are NO replacement parts for these tranys. So hope and pray the trany you have is in good shape. Once I go over it you will run it for years.
I have one from my very first build. I have my second 350 in one of my mowers now. And my BP runs my third trany I have ever built for myself. The first trany is now my spare if I ever do need one. In 8 years of racing that is all I have ever used for 2 of my mowers.
I did have an output shaft brake off years ago in WI at a race. But that is the only trany I have ever had problems with.
So there you go.
I hope that answers it all.
Don



HTH...
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on October 27, 2006, 08:36:17 pm
Entire mower is stripped down to a bare frame. Frame was “GUNKED” and scrubbed nice and clean. Naked Frame!

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0001-2.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0001-2.jpg)


As you can see, from about midpoint back there is no support whatsoever!

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0003-2.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0003-2.jpg)


3/4" tubing will be installed to stiffin her up!

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0006.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0006.jpg)


(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0004-2.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0004-2.jpg)

Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Skeeter on October 27, 2006, 08:50:18 pm
mowman racer, the frame you got there is like mine. In your last picture, if you look under the front end area the metal was cut out to insert the front end "U" channel type metal. I was told that it will crack in the edge of the cut out metal area. I backed mine up with some angle iron, cut to fit under the "u" channel and welded into place.

Scott #396
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Skeeter on October 27, 2006, 08:59:10 pm
Are you going to use the holes where the brake/clutch rod went through?

If so will the square tube get in the way?

Scott #396
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on October 27, 2006, 10:10:06 pm
I'm sure the holes will get blocked....but I have a couple plans for the clutch setup.
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: mowdak1 on October 27, 2006, 10:25:10 pm
All images above are now thumbnailed to larger images for you Tom. (o;?
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Skeeter on October 28, 2006, 12:38:58 am
I like those saw horses! What are they made of and can we get a closer look at 'm?

The work bench is tooooo clean. I've got parts all over my shop. :D

Scott #396
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on October 28, 2006, 08:57:41 am
All images above are now thumbnailed to larger images for you Tom. (o;?

Thank you!!

I like those saw horses! What are they made of and can we get a closer look at 'm?

The work bench is tooooo clean. I've got parts all over my shop. :D

Scott #396

Chassis Stands they are called. They are made from mild steel. I worked at a race shop for some time and we used these when we were building new cars or repairing damaged ones! These two stands had sustained damaged when were were at a race at Sebring and got tossed in the garbage. Needless to say.....I grabbed them and repaired them.
You can buy them here: http://www.pegasusautoracing.com/productselection.asp?Product=3175

but they are not cheap. These are the 28" model. Here is a picture from the above mentioned site:
(http://www.pegasusautoracing.com/Images/L/3175.JPG)
http://www.pegasusautoracing.com/Images/L/3175.JPG
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: mowdak1 on October 28, 2006, 11:39:24 am
Yeah they are kinda proud of those things aren't they! But, they are sweet!

I can see room for a carpenter mod to prevent scattering carbide tips off your saw blade all over the garage! Wouldn't take much, a couple brackets bolted on the edge of 2 x 4 to slide down over the top rail and pin beneath, or bolt through. With that configuration a guy might want to use 1 x 2 rectangular steel on the top beam to help prevent roll, and one could also build a set of those brackets with a roller on them to slip over the top rail. These things could be made really functional with the addition of a few simple mods!! (o:?

Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on October 28, 2006, 09:31:32 pm
Played around a little more in the garage today!!!

I ground off all raised sections of the frame where I'll be adding x-tra support.
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0002-1.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0002-1.jpg)


I installed both rails and made sure they were level and square in the chassis
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0004-3.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0004-3.jpg)

Here is one side tac-welded into place
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0006-1.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0006-1.jpg)

Here is the other side secured in place prior to welding
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0010-1.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0010-1.jpg)

Here are both rails tac'ed into place
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0013-3.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0013-3.jpg)

Here is the front brace that connects both side rails
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0014.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0014.jpg)

Starting the process of welding the rails into place
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0017.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0017.jpg)

Top of deck showing rails. Other than being tac-welded way in the back, this side will get it's final weld one I install my tranny plate for my 350

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0018-1.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0018-1.jpg)


I have the bottom side welded more than it will ever need! I think I added more weight with welding wire than the tubing weighed!!

I may be cutting the rails a little shorter in the rear of the chassis for the axle. Right now I'd have to notch the rails for clearance for a 1.250" axle and I want to use adjustable cassettes so even more clearance will be needed. I'll know better once they arrive in my hands!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: coreyk on October 28, 2006, 09:40:30 pm
Nice, what welder are you using?
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: George Herrin on October 28, 2006, 09:55:45 pm
Very good work looks like some one took good lessons LOL. Dont cut the rails short for axle weld the cassette mounts on and then cut through them I will try to get some picks up Been trashing on this puter to get it back on line been a two day thing.
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on October 28, 2006, 10:23:06 pm
Nice, what welder are you using?

It's an older Miller 110v machine--oldie but goodie!

Very good work looks like some one took good lessons LOL. Dont cut the rails short for axle weld the cassette mounts on and then cut through them I will try to get some picks up Been trashing on this puter to get it back on line been a two day thing.

Thanks George...The only lessons were looking at your build!!!

Thanks for the info on the rails...I won't cut them short!!

Are you running a brace across the back? If I install one I'm 100% sure the sprocket will be be hitting it. So..That wouldn't make much sense installing one then hacking it for gear clearance!

My thoughts are that the tranny plate will aid in the support for the back half and may I install one cross brace behind the tranny plate as far back without causing interference with the chain, brakes, and sprocket.

As always...time will tell!!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: George Herrin on October 29, 2006, 12:33:31 am
I don't run a piece across either the front or the rear. Since I have the puter working again I will try to get some more pics up. to give you an idea what I have done. I do weld the rear plate on and weld all seems on the inside of the frame. Pics to come.
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on October 29, 2006, 07:06:48 am
I don't run a piece across either the front or the rear. Since I have the puter working again I will try to get some more pics up. to give you an idea what I have done. I do weld the rear plate on and weld all seems on the inside of the frame. Pics to come.

My thoughts (I'm sure I'm wrong) would have been to leave the back as a bolt on piece (more securely than the stock self tappers). I figured it would make gear changes and such a little easier.
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: George Herrin on October 29, 2006, 08:23:15 am
Useing a craftsman chassis mybe but I am using a kart style hub and split sprocket, 6 nuts and swap. On jack stands of course. Its part of the chassis a main part and even botled more securely it will allow some flex to some degree. I have found either make em rigid or let em flex inbetween doesn't work. And with the speeds we running now a real fexy chassis is not the best anymore. Flex will never stay the same. WHY, because as it flex's it weakens the metal over time the flexing continuely gets worse to the point of even having stress cracks and fractures in the frame. While the whole time you are chasing the setup because it isn't staying the same. Does this make sense.
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on October 29, 2006, 08:45:00 am
Useing a craftsman chassis mybe but I am using a kart style hub and split sprocket, 6 nuts and swap. On jack stands of course. Its part of the chassis a main part and even botled more securely it will allow some flex to some degree. I have found either make em rigid or let em flex inbetween doesn't work. And with the speeds we running now a real fexy chassis is not the best anymore. Flex will never stay the same. WHY, because as it flex's it weakens the metal over time the flexing continuely gets worse to the point of even having stress cracks and fractures in the frame. While the whole time you are chasing the setup because it isn't staying the same. Does this make sense.

Makes 100% sense. So if I weld my back plate on this will not cause any "ISSUES" during a tech inspection I hope......and will you slow down with your new build!!! I'm trying to keep up! LOL ;D
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: George Herrin on October 29, 2006, 08:53:25 am
Quite honestly I only got about 5 hours in the build so far, IF I have everything in front of me I can build a complete MTD racer turn the key drive away in two days. I am on dail up its took me this long to load all the pictures. And welding your plate on will cause no issues. Do all the welding inside makes a cleaner look for the out side.
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on October 29, 2006, 09:49:02 am
Quite honestly I only got about 5 hours in the build so far, IF I have everything in front of me I can build a complete MTD racer turn the key drive away in two days. I am on dail up its took me this long to load all the pictures. And welding your plate on will cause no issues. Do all the welding inside makes a cleaner look for the out side.

Thank for the info!!! True..I only have about 3.5-4 hours into my build..Most of the down time is trying to find a good deal on parts and waiting for them to arrive!!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Squidd on October 29, 2006, 09:52:08 am
Dang, you guys are really moving along on these builds...(and looking good Tom)

Making me anxious to get started on mine..(just gotta collect a few more pieces to start the layout)
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Squidd on October 29, 2006, 09:54:37 am
Yup...Waiting is the hard part..!!! (http://www.saltwaterfish.com/vb/images/smilies/jumping.gif)
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on October 30, 2006, 01:19:21 pm
Just ordered my adjustable cassettes, mounting flanges and bearings. Should be getting my axle, sprocket and brakes in any day as well!!.....

Man hardley really have anything in my hands and already put out $350.00!!! oh well....I figured  a good $1000 or so to get it rolling the way I want .

Wait til the wife see's the credit card statement! :bash:
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Squidd on October 30, 2006, 10:34:50 pm
I know it...Haven't even started ordering parts for the engine internals yet...(http://www.saltwaterfish.com/vb/images/smilies/scared.gif)
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: creechfan on November 02, 2006, 11:02:01 pm
lol, i just got done today adding up all the stuff i am going to start my first build with..

i'm going to be over 550 for my first order....

but honestly, that does not hold a candle to the race stuff i could be doing to my quad.
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on November 03, 2006, 11:25:10 pm
Well, got a few more things in the mail today......so I started the installation of the rear axle cassette holders.

First thing was to grind off the surface rust so I had a nice clean area to weld onto...

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0002-2.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0002-2.jpg)


Next was to mark the centerline of the old original axle and to figure the height that the new axle needs to be mounted. The new rules allow for a 4" minimum ground clearance. I set my at 4.250". I will be using adjustable cassettes for mounting the axle it will allow me to TWEAK an extra 3/8" either way.

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0003-3.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0003-3.jpg)


Next I measured and marked the cassette holder to find the centerline of the holder as if the cassette was installed in it's center position.

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0004-4.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0004-4.jpg)


With the marking made on the cassette holder, I was able to place it right onto the frame of the mower right over the centerline markings I made earlier.

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0005-1.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0005-1.jpg)


This was squared up off of the bottom of the frame.

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0006-2.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0006-2.jpg)


Cassette holder was clamped into place and tack welded at four points.

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0008.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0008.jpg)


Clamps were removed and cassette holder was final welded onto frame.
Frame now needs to be cut out for installation of axle!

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0012.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0012.jpg)


Here is a pic of one of the adjustable bearing holders/cassettes!

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0014-1.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0014-1.jpg)


That's it for now...Ran out of welding wire!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Squidd on November 03, 2006, 11:42:19 pm
Looking good...

I like the "measure, mark, square, clamp and then weld routine...

Beats the heck out of "slap and tack and check it with a tape measurer"...and then have to grind 'er off cause you tweaked it by 1/4"...

Ain't that something with the wire...??? Roll looked full this morning...Cept I usually don't run out untill saturday afternoon...after all the parts stores are closed... :mad:
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: mowdak1 on November 03, 2006, 11:43:22 pm
What's up with that runnin out of wire routine... you gotta buy the BIG spool dude! :confused2: ;)

Lookin good!!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: birdman_express on November 03, 2006, 11:55:18 pm
What's up with that runnin out of wire routine... you gotta buy the BIG spool dude! :confused2: ;)

Lookin good!!

I did that the other day myself....  :dunno:

Was glad though, the wire was junk, but even my welds with better wire don't look as good as yours.
I make chicken turd welds.

Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: George Herrin on November 04, 2006, 02:43:51 am
Looking good there not only can you adjust by the cassettes but by moving them as well if you drill all the mount holes. My 06 chassis is that way also. Nice job.
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: George Herrin on November 04, 2006, 03:14:25 am
OK I looked harder AND in your last pic you cannot mount the cassette in the position you have it in. The center shall we say Jack bolt must be at the top. THIS is what we run into using the cassette mount for karts and adjustable cassette's. They are mounted on top of the kart frame which means the axle comes out the top of the holder where a mower it comes out the bottom. My 05 and 04 chassis used those cassettes, and They have plenty of holes simply turn it over with bolt to top see if the still match the Holder holes. If not You may have to locate and drill new mounting hole thru cassette holder and frame. Have I confused you at all yet!!!  :woo:
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Gearstix on November 04, 2006, 04:02:04 am
Here's the hard to find PEERLESS 350 3 speed transmission!!


Lol
Nice mower build. I wouldnt blow the 14. send it to me i have a 5 :D
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on November 04, 2006, 07:37:33 am
OK I looked harder AND in your last pic you cannot mount the cassette in the position you have it in. The center shall we say Jack bolt must be at the top. THIS is what we run into using the cassette mount for karts and adjustable cassette's. They are mounted on top of the kart frame which means the axle comes out the top of the holder where a mower it comes out the bottom. My 05 and 04 chassis used those cassettes, and They have plenty of holes simply turn it over with bolt to top see if the still match the Holder holes. If not You may have to locate and drill new mounting hole thru cassette holder and frame. Have I confused you at all yet!!!  :woo:

Per the last line of the above quote....YES!!!

I am thinking YOUR reason behind this is that with the "JACKBOLT" located on the top, This would not allow the cassette to "SLIP-UP" out of position if the four other adjusting bolts were to get loose. Since my fat behind will be applying downpressure to the frame and making the axle wanting to move higher up in the chassis, the JACKBOLT will limit the travel of the cassette and locking it into it's height position.
Was that was you were trying to explain or do I still have it confused??
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: George Herrin on November 04, 2006, 08:45:26 am
Quote
Since my fat behind will be applying downpressure


I didn't say that or imply it but  >:D if it's the case yup you are thinking correctly.  :D
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: coreyk on November 04, 2006, 03:40:38 pm
The 4" minimum ground clearance rule. This sounds stupid but im confused. Does that mean it has to have at least 4"'s of ground clearance, or can it have 5" and still pass?
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: George Herrin on November 04, 2006, 03:56:50 pm
nothing less than 4... 5 is ok
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: coreyk on November 04, 2006, 04:07:18 pm
Alright, thats what i thought. Thanks george.
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on November 04, 2006, 10:11:55 pm
Well I cut out the chassis for clearance for the axle and started the installation of the cassette holder on the other side as well.

Here I used a hole saw to cut out for axle clearance

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0001-3.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0001-3.jpg)

Here I marked the section to cut out to be able to drop axle out thru bottom

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0002-3.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0002-3.jpg)

Here is the chassis after above section removed

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0006-3.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0006-3.jpg)

Here's more metal for the scrap pile

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0003-4.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0003-4.jpg)

Not shown was that I redrilled the cassette holders to reorientate the adjustable cassette 180* for the way it was pictures before.
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: coreyk on November 05, 2006, 05:22:05 pm
Slow down!! I can't keep up. I wish i had a welder that can weld 1/4" steel.... :(
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on November 06, 2006, 07:56:42 pm
Finished welding up both sides, both sides are redrilled for the proper orientation of the cassettes, slid the axle in as well as the brake rotor and the gear hub. I need to get a gear for the hub so clearance can be cut in the back panel.
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0006-4.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0006-4.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0003-5.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0003-5.jpg)

Within the next few day I'll weld in the tranny mount plate so I'll know where to position the rear sprocket so I can cut the clearance in the back panel!!!

I also mounted up my front wheels tonight as well!!!

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0005-2.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0005-2.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0004-5.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0004-5.jpg)
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: creechfan on November 07, 2006, 01:56:58 pm
what hubs are you using for the front wheels??
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on November 07, 2006, 03:14:34 pm
what hubs are you using for the front wheels??

Standard 3 lug KART style. As for a mfgr name....Don't know--
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Skeeter on November 09, 2006, 12:08:49 pm
Hey Tom, The rear panel should bolt on and off. I noticed that you have the short one. If you get the longer one you might not have to cut a slot for the sprocket. On mine it did not make any noticeable difference in appearance but made a lot of room for the sprocket.

Check this out. May be it will help.


[old attachment deleted by admin]
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on November 09, 2006, 05:34:25 pm
Hey Tom, The rear panel should bolt on and off. I noticed that you have the short one. If you get the longer one you might not have to cut a slot for the sprocket. On mine it did not make any noticeable difference in appearance but made a lot of room for the sprocket.

Check this out. May be it will help.

I remember you pointing that out a while back to someone else.....I wish I knew what years and model the longer came off of to help me find one. Any clue what year/vintage that your extended panel is off of?
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: matt25001149 on November 09, 2006, 05:38:53 pm
yup look for the 42'' cut models the tranny is moved back further so its needed for the longer plate
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on November 09, 2006, 05:39:16 pm
UPS MAN just dropped off my rear wheels and hubs from ARC!!!!! Just started to mount the rear tires onto the new wheels.... :mad: Man these are a tight fit to get on!!!

I think I had both my front wheels mounted with tubes in about 15 minutes tops....I've already spent 20 minutes just trying to get half the wheel inside the tire and still have not got it! :willynilly:
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on November 09, 2006, 05:45:23 pm
yup look for the 42'' cut models the tranny is moved back further so its needed for the longer plate

u da man!!!! Thanks!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on November 09, 2006, 09:26:34 pm
Well...got the tires mounted on their wheels!!! I placed them on the axle to see what my preliminary frame height is at and with tires inflated to 8 psi I'm measuring 4.250" with my cassettes set at mid-point.

Here is a view with the fender placed on.
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0004-6.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0004-6.jpg)

Here is a full side view with my wanna be front axle
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0007.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0007.jpg)


Here is my low cost front axle
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0006-5.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0006-5.jpg)


The end
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0003-6.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0003-6.jpg)
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Squidd on November 09, 2006, 09:57:18 pm


Here is my low cost front axle
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0006-5.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0006-5.jpg)

Well, the rules do state "one piece" and " not aluminum"...so I "guess" that qualifies..... :omg:
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: LVine2001 on November 09, 2006, 11:46:14 pm
Yes but the question is ..wood it hold up?

I think you are barkn'  up the wrong tree with that axle.

I'm knot going to be the one to test it.

You might want to spruce it up a bit.

The race season is barely over and I'm already board, Oh how I Pine for the race season to start again..
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: hellyan on November 10, 2006, 01:19:22 am
Jest think when he sayes ow no i hope my front end doesent brake he can knock on wood  :rofl: :woot:
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: creechfan on November 14, 2006, 01:01:40 pm
you guys are toooooooooo funny :lol:
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: creechfan on November 14, 2006, 01:13:23 pm
George,
Is this what you mean when you say you need to flip the casset?

(http://img1.putfile.com/thumb/11/31713110669.jpg) (http://www.putfile.com/pic.php?img=3991237)

Do you mean just move the bolt , or flip the entire casset in it's holder and leave the bolt where it's at?

Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: George Herrin on November 14, 2006, 01:20:02 pm
Redrill the holes either in the back of the casstte or in the holder but flip the entire casstte not the holder so the bolt is on top
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: creechfan on November 14, 2006, 03:44:36 pm
is the "top" where my arrows end?
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on November 14, 2006, 03:48:53 pm
Yep, where your arrows end is the top. All I did was rotate the entire cassette assembly 180* from the position in the photo. Drilled new holes thru welded on holder and thats it!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: creechfan on November 14, 2006, 03:51:15 pm
i see now! LOL....

Awww guys,

i am getting giddy about my build!! i cant wait!!!  (hence all of my "funnyness" today...)
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: creechfan on November 14, 2006, 03:51:58 pm
Thanks MowerMan!!!!!! :twothumbsup:
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on November 16, 2006, 08:30:08 pm
Well, been waiting on parts to arrive and decided to install my brake caliper just to get something done!!!

Here's a picture of the caliper mounted
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0004-7.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0004-7.jpg)

I still need to run the lines and mount the master cylinder. It is off of a 03' GSXR 600

I also decided to add this as well.....
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v


Per the recomendations of a certian individual on EBAY whom I purchased a wonderful step by step "E-BOOK" on how to convert your mower into a racer.......I added this outlet to plug my fan into to help cool the engine.


(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0011-1.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0011-1.jpg)

 :lol:

 
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: birdman_express on November 16, 2006, 08:56:13 pm
Would that be a front brake?

And for outdoor use, wouldn't you be better with a GFI plug..... :rofl:
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on November 16, 2006, 09:13:09 pm
Would that be a front brake?

And for outdoor use, wouldn't you be better with a GFI plug..... :rofl:

It is a rear caliper and brake set up. The rotor is a standard KART type.

I was thinking about installing a GFCI type outlet, but decided when I install the breaker box I'll make sure to use one of those GFCI breakers!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: LVine2001 on November 17, 2006, 12:51:10 pm
That's the wrong outlet!
You had better install one of those big round ones with the tabs so it locks in place when you insert and rotate it like on the 220 circuts, and doesn't vibrate loose.:willynilly: :willynilly:
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on November 17, 2006, 09:42:27 pm
Here is the fabrication of my tranny plate as well as the installation! I got photo happy so there is a TON of images I took!

First  was to turn the tranny upside down.

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0001-4.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0001-4.jpg)


Then I took a piece of cardboard and placed it on the bottom of the tranny to make an indentation of the input shaft in the cardboard.

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0004-8.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0004-8.jpg)


I then used a marker to show where the indentation is and from the center of it made a circle for the diameter needed for clearance for the tranny’s input shaft. It was then cut out with a razor blade.

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0005-3.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0005-3.jpg)

I then placed the cardboard over the input shaft.

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0006-6.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0006-6.jpg)

Then I pushed 4 nails into and thru the cardboard so they went into the four mounting locations on the tranny. This gave me a template of the bottom of the tranny.

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0007-1.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0007-1.jpg)

Now with the template I placed it on my 12” x 8” .250 thick steel plate and used a marker to transfer all the locations that need to be drilled out.


(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0008-1.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0008-1.jpg)


(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0009-1.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0009-1.jpg)

Here is the plate with me making sure holes will be drilled square to the plate.

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0010-2.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0010-2.jpg)

Here are the four mouting holes drilled out.

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0011-2.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0011-2.jpg)

Here goes the big hole!!!

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0012-1.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0012-1.jpg)

5 minutes and a lot of oil later....

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0013-4.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0013-4.jpg)

all cleaned and deburred!

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0014-2.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0014-2.jpg)

Here is the plate placed on the tranny. YES! the holes line up!!!

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0015.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0015.jpg)

I now secured the plate to the tranny by using studs, washers, and nuts.

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0016.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0016.jpg)

The plate and tranny assembly is now placed into the chassis and set to the pre marked location so the shifter is in a near stock position.

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0017-1.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0017-1.jpg)

This is where I measured to make sure the tranny was square to the chassis

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0018-2.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0018-2.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0019.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0019.jpg)

Here I tack welded plate into location

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0020.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0020.jpg)

Here is the bottom getting welded into place after I removed the tranny.

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0021.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0021.jpg)

I still need to finish weld the plate in, just wanted to give it plenty of COOL DOWN time!

Next will be the front axle!








Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: George Herrin on November 17, 2006, 09:49:37 pm
very nice work. Looking good.
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: matt25001149 on November 17, 2006, 10:53:45 pm
SWEET :thumbsup: keep the pics comin
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: creechfan on November 17, 2006, 11:58:09 pm
Is that a special kind of hole saw for metal? Or is it a wood one run at a very very very very low speed?


-=CreehFan
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on November 18, 2006, 12:12:13 am
Is that a special kind of hole saw for metal? Or is it a wood one run at a very very very very low speed?


-=CreehFan

It's called a BI-METAL hole saw.  I run it at a slow/med speed with plenty of lubricant!! I think I bought that particular hole saw around 1997...and still good as new!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: creechfan on November 19, 2006, 09:37:53 pm
thanks!!!!

Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on November 19, 2006, 10:12:32 pm
Your welcome!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: coreyk on November 25, 2006, 06:59:20 pm
Any progress?
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on November 25, 2006, 08:10:16 pm
I shipped out my tranny to Don @ G-TEAM for him to give it aork over...Ordered some other parts from him at the same time....

I got sprockets, pullies, steering shaft, steering wheel, heims, and don't even remember what else I'm waiting on to be delivered.

Picking up another 40CI opposed twin tomorrow from MOWRON1.

Waiting on some heims from Ibuiltmine-0100 then I can get started on my front axle...but I think those are coming to me on a boat from China!

What else....looking for a lathe to add to my shop...Guess that's about it until some parts come my way
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: LVine2001 on November 27, 2006, 09:26:23 am
Just an FYI...
If that 40 is an INTEK then Don G. has some goodies for you there as well...
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on November 27, 2006, 11:59:33 am
Just an FYI...
If that 40 is an INTEK then Don G. has some goodies for you there as well...


Thanks for the info...but my engines are the BRIGGS I/C twin cylinder flathead ones (valve in block)....not much (if anything) out their yet for these engines. USLMRA just started a class (CP) to allow the use of these engines so in due time, things will be made!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: LVine2001 on November 27, 2006, 01:03:53 pm
Oh you have one of those...J/K.

You are right I am sure it's only a matter of time before performance stuff shows up for those engines. If I know him half as well as I think I do I am sure the mad machinist at G-Team is already looking for one to do R&D on.

I believe the largest oppo twin is a 46 cid correct?

Now that is the place to start...There is no replacement for displacement.....
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: mowdak1 on November 27, 2006, 01:20:49 pm
That would be correct Lee 460700 - 463700 series. And, a few of these did have pressurized lubrication system if you really want to go all out in your search for one.
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Chris on November 27, 2006, 02:11:13 pm
I have three opposed twins. The one on the Toro has the pressurized lube system, the internal difference between the two types is quite substantial (as would be suspected). I can't wait for some performance stuff to come out for them, I just love the sound of the opposed twins :D
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on November 28, 2006, 10:07:44 pm
Back to the build!…..such a nice night had to go do some work out in the garage!

Well, had enough components  to make up the front axle.

Started off my measuring, drawing  sketches, measuring and calculating and came to the measurement needed to cut the tubing to the length needed.

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0001-5.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0001-5.jpg)
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0002-4.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0002-4.jpg)

I used some tubing I had in my shop (aka GARAGE!)…And it fit the original location of the axle perfectly! It is OVERKILL for an axle…but..oh well…Didn’t cost me anything!

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0003-7.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0003-7.jpg)

Next I had to make up some end plates to mount the heims to.
Again…more steel I had laying around. The first plate was made up “FREE-HAND” with a drill bit and a die grinder. Got the shape as  close as I could with the minimal tools avail to me for making a cut like this. The first one is always the easy one…it’s trying to make the second one match that can be the headache!

Anyway….After the first one was made up. I placed it over the second plate to be made and marked where I should drill the holes to open up into a slot.

Here is the second plate that I drilled out (3)  .500” holes.

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0007-2.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0007-2.jpg)

I then stacked the two plated on top of each other with the first completed plate on top. Clamped them in a vise to hold them together.
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0009-2.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0009-2.jpg)

I then grabbed a can of spray paint and sprayed it thru the first plate onto the second plate to hopefully leave a pattern to die grind out so they both match.
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0010-3.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0010-3.jpg)

After giving the paint a minute of dry time…I removed the top plate and whay was left on the second plate was the pattern I needed to make each plate match!
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0012-2.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0012-2.jpg)


Here we are with two matched end plates.
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0013-5.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0013-5.jpg)


Here I welded a .500” fine thread nut onto the backside bottom of the plates to thread the lower heim joint into. I wont have access to this nut once the plates are welded onto the axle tube.
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0015-1.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0015-1.jpg)

Here you can see both end plates assembled with heims.
 (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0017-2.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0017-2.jpg)

Here they are tacked into place onto the axle .
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0018-3.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0018-3.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0019-1.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0019-1.jpg)

Here you can see I’m getting a little shy of 12* caster adjustment  on the end plates alone. As you can see in some of the previous images, I have tack welded these end plates onto the axle tube with an additional 6* POSITIVE caster . This will now give me an adjustment  from 6* NEGATIVE thru  18* POSTIVE caster on each side.
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0016-1.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0016-1.jpg)

Here we are with one wheel just thrown on (waiting on my other hubs to arrive) to take a measurement from the center of the axle to the outer most part of the wheel. This measurement was giving me 17”.  This will give me a 34” front track width with room to make this wider if need be.
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0020-1.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0020-1.jpg)


I’ll have enough adjustment to set the front chassis height from 3.750” to 5.000” depending on how I space the spindle.

Next will be to finish weld the end plates onto the axle. And weld it into the chassis.

Not counting my time...I'll have about $65.00 into this front axle once done. I had heims, the steel, and misc hardware...All I needed to buy were spindles, bushings and hubs!

That’s enough for tonight……Back out to the garage tomorrow after work!

Sorry for the smaller than normal images...had to use the el'cheapo camera tonight...the better one's batteries were dead and didn't feel like running down to the gas station to get some!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Chris on November 28, 2006, 10:09:59 pm
That's pretty darn cool!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Squidd on November 28, 2006, 10:14:29 pm
Well thought out and presented..:thumbsup:
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: George Herrin on November 28, 2006, 10:24:52 pm
 :twothumbsup:
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: matt25001149 on November 28, 2006, 10:38:58 pm
sweet guage man :thumbsup:
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: creechfan on November 28, 2006, 10:40:26 pm
have you guys ever seen the stock axel used with this kind of chassis? I was going to use my stocker, but if it is really not a good idea, i may end up building it, i was just trying to save some time by using the stocker....


and yes, i was going to weld it or bolt it in solid....lowering the front end...

Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: creechfan on November 28, 2006, 10:43:08 pm
Quote
And, a few of these did have pressurized lubrication system if you really want to go all out in your search for one.

does briggs not make them any more?
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on November 28, 2006, 10:48:31 pm
have you guys ever seen the stock axel used with this kind of chassis? I was going to use my stocker, but if it is really not a good idea, i may end up building it, i was just trying to save some time by using the stocker....


and yes, i was going to weld it or bolt it in solid....lowering the front end...



The stock one that came out of this build was two halves of stamped sheetmetal spot welded together! I'm actually suprised it held up since 1986 just mowing lawns!

If you are building your mower to race....throw the stock one away! At bare minimum order the acme axle.
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Chris on November 28, 2006, 10:58:09 pm
does briggs not make them any more?

I don't believe so, my girlfriends father just went out and bought a brand spankin' new machine (and the first thing he said when he noticed that I noticed it was "Don't you even THINK about touching that mower") and it has the pressurized oil system. Its a 20HP single
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: creechfan on November 28, 2006, 11:08:08 pm
chris,

you saying they are not made any more?

thanks mowerman!
i will add it to the list...

btw,,,,
where did you get you heim joints and rod at?
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Chris on November 28, 2006, 11:10:40 pm
No, I'm saying that they are made. Sorry I'm a bad explainer sometimes :oops:
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: matt25001149 on November 28, 2006, 11:12:08 pm
they dont make the b&s opposed's anymore dude i believe they last one was made 2001 or round there
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on November 28, 2006, 11:15:19 pm
btw,,,,
where did you get you heim joints and rod at?


Heims I've alway got from http://www.cmwraceparts.com/

What do you mean by rod?
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Chris on November 29, 2006, 09:38:31 am
they dont make the b&s opposed's anymore dude i believe they last one was made 2001 or round there

Yes, but they still make the pressurized oil system
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: creechfan on November 29, 2006, 01:28:02 pm
Quote
Yep, your right they don't make the b&s opposed twin anymore, the EPA killed theme
really??? I would have never guessed that being a 4 stroke and all...
do you have any details??


Rod...as in threded rod for your steering.
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: matt25001149 on November 29, 2006, 01:58:46 pm
Quote
Yep, your right they don't make the b&s opposed twin anymore, the EPA killed theme
really??? I would have never guessed that being a 4 stroke and all...
do you have any details??

uhh the flathead motors pollute more than the ohv v-twins so theres ur answer :D
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Chris on November 29, 2006, 01:59:24 pm
I don't think it was the EPA, I think it they were just phased out as the V twins were the newer models (so to speak). Kinda like an upgrade.
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: creechfan on November 29, 2006, 06:04:07 pm
Quote
uhh the flathead motors pollute more than the ohv v-twins so theres ur answer

ok, i did not know this.

i wonder the reason??

chris,

your idea sounds better though

??Do we now have a conspiracy dealing with opposed twins??  DO DO DOOO DOOO DO DOOO DOOOO  :lol:
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on November 29, 2006, 09:26:37 pm
Well I headed down to the garage after dinner tonight...wanted to get a few loose ends done!

Here I final welded the front axle end plates on
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0001-6.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0001-6.jpg)

Here is where the axle will live for the rest of its life!
 (Yes, I ground off all the surface rust prior to welding the axle in)
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0004-9.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0004-9.jpg)

After axle was placed in chassis. I made sure it was perfectly centered in chassis.
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0005-4.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0005-4.jpg)

Here you can see some of the welds on the underside
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0012-3.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0012-3.jpg)

And here you can see where I have welded the axle to the chassis
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0013-6.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0013-6.jpg)
 

Had a few minutes to kill tonight so I made up this little fixture that gets mounted over the engine clearance hole on the chassis. This fixture puts a “simulated” crankshaft thru the center of the engine mount so I can install a pulley on it to mock up my belt/clutch linkage.

Most guys use a bottom case with the crank put in it while mocking up their drive system…since I didn’t have a spare bottom end but I did have these things laying around the garage I made this fixture instead!!


(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0015-2.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0015-2.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0017-3.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0017-3.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0020-2.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0020-2.jpg)


Thats all I did tonight. I had a real busy day at work and I'm tired!

Be back out in the garage tomorrow night..not sure if it will be working on the mower...I really need to pick up the mess I made over the past couple of days!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: creechfan on November 30, 2006, 04:48:01 pm
sweet man! looking very good.....
how much would you build me front axel for?

also,

why not mount your engine to the frame? why do you have to use a mock set up?

i just planed to flip my chassis and motor upside down.
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on November 30, 2006, 07:36:10 pm
Once mower is tested I may whip up a few front ends, but til it's proven...not going to make any (unless you really want one...PM me!).

Those 40CI engines weigh a ton....don't feel like lifting and flipping the chassis with the engine. on it!...plus I just felt like making something!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on November 30, 2006, 07:51:52 pm
Here is a pic of the mower as a roller!

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0002-5.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0002-5.jpg)

Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: coreyk on November 30, 2006, 08:24:40 pm
Need a local tester?  ;)
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: George Herrin on November 30, 2006, 09:00:38 pm
Sure looks good Tom
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on November 30, 2006, 09:33:42 pm
I've got a mower just like that one but a newer and i'm thinking of doing the same thing your doing to it, but what is the cost of it i mean lowering and putting rims like you have on it?

Well doing some quick math...... rims (4), tires (4), hubs (4), spindles (2), heims (4), rear axle, adjustable cassettes (2), cassette mounts (2), and material to build front axle......

I've come up with $645.00!!!!

Don't forget..this was for a live axle conversion. I should have a good $1300 into this before I even play with the engine!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: money89tractors on November 30, 2006, 09:36:13 pm
wish i had the kinda money!! my case is going to bed VERY low bundget...most i might buy for it is a new belt and a pully if i cant find the right one....the case already has hiem jonts for ALL the steering! :woot:

-Phil
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: money89tractors on November 30, 2006, 09:39:05 pm
nope, plannin of IMOW, what im shootin for...i wanna see if one can be built dirt cheap and still be competative (doubt it but imma try)

-Phil
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: money89tractors on November 30, 2006, 09:43:24 pm
what are you planning n doing with the engine on this tom? what kinda engine ar you running? i really want a EFI kohler!! would be awesome!! problem is its not legal :P

-Phil
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: offroadwhatever8 on November 30, 2006, 09:56:08 pm
i rather have a carb instead of electronic fuel injection, i would be worried somthing would brake and be expensive and hard to fix. :(
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on November 30, 2006, 10:00:07 pm
what are you planning n doing with the engine on this tom? what kinda engine ar you running? i really want a EFI kohler!! would be awesome!! problem is its not legal :P

-Phil

I have (2) 40 cubic inch Briggs Flathead opposed twin cylinder engies I'll initially toy around with. I have a few things I'll be trying internally and time will tell how well they play out! :whistling:

Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on November 30, 2006, 10:11:07 pm
What kind of internall suff?

Oh we'll see..........not ready give out any ideas just yet (mostly because I don't know what the outcome will be...and if it works good I'll never tell!!!)!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: creechfan on December 04, 2006, 02:57:22 pm
Quote
Once mower is tested I may whip up a few front ends, but til it's proven...not going to make any (unless you really want one...PM me!).

Those 40CI engines weigh a ton....don't feel like lifting and flipping the chassis with the engine. on it!...plus I just felt like making something!

OK.

Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on December 06, 2006, 06:57:28 am
Hey, what tranny was in there when you got it?

It was a Foote...not sure of the model number (didn't care so I didn't look!).
5 forwards speeds and 1 reverse
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: LVine2001 on December 06, 2006, 11:21:47 am
I just had one of these mowers "donated" to me.
It's the 12hp version so the front Grille is a little different but still "boxie".

It is sort of a shell, no motor, no deck, no transaxle or wheels/tires.

Is there anyone interested in it as individual parts or the whole machine?
Good: hood,side panels,lights,footboards,fender,frame,dash,steering, etc...

You can have it, or desired parts of it, at no cost (except shipping of course).

If not, I will scrap it, just thought I would offer it up and see if any of you are interested.

Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on December 06, 2006, 03:53:47 pm
Do you know if they all had footes in them? as you know i'v got a craftsman II4000 now its the same body style but a lot newer it has a V twin B&S that came on it when my dad got it i'm thinking its a 94 maybe newer.

I really don't know...you may want to start a new topic and see what people have to say.
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Chris on December 07, 2006, 09:02:11 am
Going Once...

You have a PM
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: George Herrin on December 07, 2006, 09:23:37 am
 :hijacked: :alcoholic: :rofl:
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: LVine2001 on December 07, 2006, 09:29:13 am
WOW we get off topic quickly eh?

It must be the: "Creative" yet "Intuitive" "Helpfull" yet "thought provoking" way we all think ...

or

Maybe we all just suffer from a touch of ADD or ADHD or AHHD or AAAD or ...um ....what was I talking about...?

Let's get on with these builds I need more new pictures to look at !!!!!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Squidd on December 07, 2006, 04:46:58 pm
Don't make me come in here and move this.... :nono:
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on December 07, 2006, 09:59:31 pm
Well, back out to the garage tonight……I wanted to get my steering shaft support made up so….I DID!

Lots of pictures (Sorry dial-up peoples)

Anyway….

First thing was to get the mower up an the stands:

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0001-8.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0001-8.jpg)

Next, I needed to mark on the chassis where the centerline of the steering shaft should be.
I place a piece of string with a washer on the end to act as my cheap plumb-bob!
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0004-11.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0004-11.jpg)

This in return showed me where the shaft would be centered left to right in the chassis.
Marked it with a yellow paint pen.
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0006-8.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0006-8.jpg)

Now I took a square and transferred this centerline further down the chassis.
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0007-3.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0007-3.jpg)

I then placed the steering shaft thru the console/dash to get a good angle for it to be at. Where it met on the centerline a new line was drawn to determine where the thru hole is to be made.
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0008-2.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0008-2.jpg)

Here we go using a hole saw!
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0009-3.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0009-3.jpg)

Look, It made a hole!
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0010-4.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0010-4.jpg)

Here I laid out the lower mounts of my steering support as well as the spherical bearing mount I fabbed up from some tubing I had in the garage
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0011-3.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0011-3.jpg)

Here they are laid in place ready to be welded in place.
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0012-4.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0012-4.jpg)

Here they are partially welded in place.
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0013-7.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0013-7.jpg)

In this photo I’m determining the proper angle for the support bars/legs of the steering support
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0015-3.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0015-3.jpg)

Here I have tacked both uprights into place.
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0016-2.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0016-2.jpg)

Here the upper cross/support bar has been tacked into place.
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0018-4.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0018-4.jpg)

Here you can see I welded a nut onto the backside of the upper support and  threaded a 5/8” heim into this to act as the upper support for the steering shaft
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0019-2.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0019-2.jpg)

Here is a picture of the assembly tack welded in place.
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0021-1.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0021-1.jpg)

Here is the dash reinstalled onto the chassis to check for fitment and to confirm the steering shaft is still centered in the dash opening. IT WAS!
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0023.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0023.jpg)

Side view of mower with steering shaft in place.
(pay no attention to the seat…it’s just for mock-up!)
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0024.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0024.jpg)


I need to final weld the steering support then onto the clutch system!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: birdman_express on December 07, 2006, 10:22:05 pm
Plenty of pics per step in this one, good going.
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on December 08, 2006, 06:56:32 am
What color you gone to paint her when your done?

No idea!.....Over the next few months I'm going to try my hand at some type of sponsorship program. Who knows what will happen.....if a decent sponsorship arrives, the mowsheen will be the colors of the main sponsor...if nothing comes in....it may stay the standard craftsman silver color (only with new paint). Really don't know.


Plenty of pics per step in this one, good going.

Thanks!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: creechfan on December 08, 2006, 10:15:08 am
awsome job!!!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: hillbillyracer on December 08, 2006, 10:21:22 am
looks good i suggest you paint it arctic cat green or john deere green and yellow
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on December 08, 2006, 11:33:28 am
looks good i suggest you paint it arctic cat green or john deere green and yellow

For some reason I've always hated those colors. So...needless to say...I won't be spraying those colors!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: George Herrin on December 08, 2006, 12:01:07 pm
Amen Mow Man, no green here either.......
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Mowindown on December 08, 2006, 04:03:46 pm
Paint it chevy orange make it run faster.
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: LVine2001 on December 08, 2006, 04:08:09 pm
I may be a bit partial here but I think yellow would be  a great color for that thing !!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on December 08, 2006, 04:11:25 pm
I may be a bit partial here but I think yellow would be  a great color for that thing !!

Yep...your partial!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: mowdak1 on December 08, 2006, 08:05:26 pm
I kinda like the Silver Bullet look about it... try a Coors Light sponsorship! Always cool to have beer sponsors! Especially if they want you to promote their product after the race. Everybody will love you!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on December 08, 2006, 08:53:47 pm
I kinda like the Silver Bullet look about it... try a Coors Light sponsorship! Always cool to have beer sponsors! Especially if they want you to promote their product after the race. Everybody will love you!

Even thou I'm not much of a beer drinker I really would like to have COORS LIGHT just to give you guys that free beer at the end of race day!

I actually like the factory color style of the mower as well......Maybe I can give SEARS a call for some sponsorship as well!

But as of now I'm planning on keeping it the factory color and layout!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: George Herrin on December 08, 2006, 09:31:46 pm
I don't drink much no mow either BUT if you get down to it, Coor Light is my beer. SO go for the sponsorship and I  will take one ever now and then. LOL Seriously though, I think sliver would look great on it. That color fits that machine well.
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: matt25001149 on December 08, 2006, 10:31:02 pm
like that one??
(http://www.extrememowers.com/sitebuilder/images/DSC00245-285x207.jpg)
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: George Herrin on December 08, 2006, 10:42:59 pm
Have to admit that don't look bad at all
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: matt25001149 on December 08, 2006, 11:29:41 pm
to bad the guy blew the motor by overrevving the darn thing (bone stock btw) dropped an intake valve into the cylinder and big cloud of white smoke POW!!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: George Herrin on December 08, 2006, 11:43:35 pm
BEEN THERE DONE THAT TOO!!! Lost 4 fx motors that way experimenting winter before last getting my fx ready. BUT it happens sometimes. From that I learned how not to break em!!!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: matt25001149 on December 08, 2006, 11:47:13 pm
sorry to hijack but usually when u start to hear valves floating u normally let off throttle right?
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: George Herrin on December 08, 2006, 11:50:11 pm
Generally but it wasn't floating was simply popping the retainers off. No warning from that. And believe it or not MAny do not know what valve float really sounds like most feel its carb problems. And yea we don't need to jack the thread no mow!! SORRY too.
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: money89tractors on December 08, 2006, 11:52:09 pm
well, there are those of us that dont exactally know the sound of valves floating...i do know how longi can hold that briggs wide open without it wanting to pop to, im sure ive heard valves float before, just didnt realize it.

-Phil
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: nor66 on December 09, 2006, 08:49:20 am
:hijacked: Looks like we got off the subject again!   Funny how that happens huh?
Anyway really cool job of detailing the build I find it real interesting how different people have their own ideas, and sometimes when your stuck on how you are going to do something it is really cool to get someone Else's imagination and thought processes to open your eyes to different ideas, keep up the good work!!!

OH yea since we were on the subject of color  RED & WHITE  maybe BUD will sponsor you!!!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: George Herrin on December 09, 2006, 10:54:15 am
Yea we got off, Mowman if you like an ADMIN can go thru and clean up your build thread by removing the posts that are off topic. Makes it easier for everyone to follow the build!!! Just let us know if you want this done it your thread.
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on December 09, 2006, 10:58:32 am
Yea we got off, Mowman if you like an ADMIN can go thru and clean up your build thread by removing the posts that are off topic. Makes it easier for everyone to follow the build!!! Just let us know if you want this done it your thread.

Ahhh no big deal to me!!! What thread dosen't go off topic!!!

Now about my bar stool with the hole for exhaust........
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: George Herrin on December 09, 2006, 11:06:25 am
Quote
Now about my bar stool with the hole for exhaust........

Sorry I couldn't help it, I don't come up it good ones very often but that one just JUMPED out at me!!!  >:D
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on December 11, 2006, 07:31:25 pm
Went back out in the garage again tonight...Did my finish welding on my steering support. Also built a  battery tray to locate the battery behind the steering shaft and in front of the transmission.

Then I also started on the clutch.....got the mount made, pullies installed and just need to add some guides and mount it up!

Pictures will follow soon (wife has it with her tonight)!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: coreyk on December 13, 2006, 07:29:07 pm
What size hole saw did you use to drill the hole for the steering shaft? And also where did you get the sperical bearing?
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on December 14, 2006, 07:35:03 am
What size hole saw did you use to drill the hole for the steering shaft? And also where did you get the sperical bearing?

I used a 1.250" hole saw
Spherical bearing : www.MSCDIRECT.com
And I made the retaining ring from a piece of 1.625" ID tubing I had laying around.
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on December 17, 2006, 07:33:00 pm
Here are a few more pics of my build.
I needed to place one of my engines in place to set the fuel cell location


Had to mock up a fuel cell mount………

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0008-3.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0008-3.jpg)


Here is the fuel cell on the mount.
I still need to make the straps to secure it

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0006-9.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0006-9.jpg)


Here is how she looks with the console in place

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0005.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0005.jpg)


Here she is all-together!


(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0004a.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0004a.jpg)
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: matt25001149 on December 17, 2006, 07:44:10 pm
dude the thing ROCKS!!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: offroadwhatever8 on December 17, 2006, 08:00:29 pm
Man, that is one sick mower!!!  :woo:
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: kyle mcgee on December 17, 2006, 08:05:55 pm
looks awesome  :twothumbsup: better that any thing i could do :tard:
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: money89tractors on December 17, 2006, 10:19:09 pm
i agree, it looks sweet!! keep us posted.

-Phil
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Chris on December 17, 2006, 10:22:50 pm
Lookin good!!!!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on December 17, 2006, 10:43:48 pm
Thanks everyone!!!

Still got a full list of things that need to be done, but with the weather we've been having...Should be ready to test drive my mowsheen in about a month!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on December 18, 2006, 07:42:23 pm
Made Straps for my fuel cell tonight. Went to do some more welding...ran out of gas!!! My fault because the tank side gauge has been broken for some time...Will be getting a new gauge and a fresh bottle tomorrow!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on December 27, 2006, 06:52:36 pm
Back out in the garage tonight……
Made my rear fender mount as well as seat mount

Here is the rear fender in place and the seat mount/frame placed in it’s location

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_a.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/a.jpg)

First thing I did was to weld a bolt onto the bottom of the seat mount/frame in order to secure it to the chassis
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_b.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/b.jpg)

Then I had to make a hole into the fender.
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_c.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/c.jpg)

Then I welded a 1x1 piece of tubing onto the original rear fender support. This tubing will act as a spacer for the rear fenders to allow proper tire to fender clearance. By me making this tubing extend the entire width of the rear fenders it stiffens them right up. (they were kinda flimsy without this support)
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_d.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/d.jpg)

Here I drilled thru the new mount so the rear of the seat mount/frame can be secured to the chassis.
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_e.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/e.jpg)

Here is the seat mount in place (rear view).
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_h.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/h.jpg)

Here is the seat mounted on its frame in its rear most position.
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_j.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/j.jpg)

Here is the seat in the forward most position
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_k.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/k.jpg)


This set-up allows me to adjust the seat a total of 4” front to rear for a little tuning of the handling of my mower!




Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: offroadwhatever8 on December 27, 2006, 07:37:19 pm
Wow this mower is turning out good, I also like those bar stool racers in the backround  :lol:
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: money89tractors on December 27, 2006, 07:44:44 pm
 :lol: haha barstool racers

the mower is turnin out really nice, i love how it looks with just the stock paint!!  if it was mine, i would refinish the mower with the same paint sceme, maybe a custon silver thought. lots of flake!! make it shine!!!

-Phil
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on December 27, 2006, 08:48:15 pm
:lol: haha barstool racers

the mower is turnin out really nice, i love how it looks with just the stock paint!!  if it was mine, i would refinish the mower with the same paint sceme, maybe a custon silver thought. lots of flake!! make it shine!!!

-Phil

That's the plan....Keeping it original color scheme....I would love to put some metal flake into the paint when I spray it...but want to keep it a solid color for ease of touch-up!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: savyxer on December 27, 2006, 10:21:04 pm
Do metal flake it would look so sick. I wanna flake my mower but if I do it like really good it might cost a bit much
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: nor66 on January 07, 2007, 10:34:52 am
Dude the build looks great and is really helping me on my build too keep up the good work looking forward to see more!!!! :tard:
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on January 07, 2007, 11:00:58 am
More to come soon....Just waiting on parts from Don!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: offroadwhatever8 on January 07, 2007, 05:56:35 pm
I'm looking forward to seeing the updates  :)
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: mightymowe on January 08, 2007, 04:35:01 pm
It's hard to tell from that angle but I think I would I would have put the rear most position of the seat in the same place that you got the front position and had it move forward from there.I started with the seat back even with the axle and it put some good weight on the front axle which makes it steer good.
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on January 08, 2007, 10:09:32 pm
It's hard to tell from that angle but I think I would I would have put the rear most position of the seat in the same place that you got the front position and had it move forward from there.I started with the seat back even with the axle and it put some good weight on the front axle which makes it steer good.

It's a starting point where I got it....It is in the stock location per rules

Quote
VII. GENERAL MOWER REQUIREMENTS


Q) No offset or stagger. Body must be mounted in the center of the wheels. Tires must match in size per axle. Lawn mower seats only, in the stock location, no lower than the tops of the fenders or exposed rear tires and on centerline. Offset measured from centerline to the outside of tire sidewall. Wheelbase may not be altered.
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Chris on January 09, 2007, 08:42:42 am
BWAHAHAHAHA Nice avatar mowman!!!!! :rofl:
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: offroadwhatever8 on January 09, 2007, 03:54:56 pm
ahhh chris, you beat me to it  :grumpy:
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: eddiehenjr on January 09, 2007, 05:21:27 pm
I like the rims!  Where did you get them, and could you provide a link (if you got em on the internet)?  Tractor's comin along nice, REALLY nice!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: offroadwhatever8 on January 09, 2007, 05:42:40 pm
Quote
I like the rims!


Yeah those rims are sick
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on January 09, 2007, 07:19:14 pm
I like the rims!  Where did you get them, and could you provide a link (if you got em on the internet)?  Tractor's comin along nice, REALLY nice!

FRONTS: http://www.tsracing.com/store/showprod.cfm?&DID=7&User_ID=1334709&st=9449&st2=78717031&st3=69434042&CATID=14&ObjectGroup_ID=99

REARS: http://secure.dnihost.net/mtcatalog/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=MC&Product_Code=301719&Category_Code=RWH
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: eddiehenjr on January 10, 2007, 09:18:28 am
 :woo: DUDE ME LIKEEEEE  :badgrin:  I'll be buyin some of those for sure  :D
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on January 31, 2007, 08:06:05 pm
Got my DIGATRON today.

Very impressed with this instrument!!!  DT32K5......Backlight displays, EGT sensor, CHT Sensor, Remote store button, RPM sensor, and MPH sensor. Half the intrument is a data logger. It records tach and speedometer readings. This information is played back on the right side of the instrument. The data logger displays elapsed recorded time and lap times.

I just need to purchase the magnetic collar that goes onto the axle. ($10.00 list price per the Digatron website).

A QUESTION.......Where do you guys mount your instruments? I know the smaller ones work well on the steering wheel, but this one is a little larger than the basic Digagtron DT32. Thanks!

Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Squidd on January 31, 2007, 10:26:52 pm
Quote
A QUESTION.......Where do you guys mount your instruments? I know the smaller ones work well on the steering wheel, but this one is a little larger than the basic Digagtron DT32.

Couple options there.. but a couple things to think about too..!!!

Steering wheel is nice for the smaller ones not just because it's in front of you and you "could" see it if you looked...but because the steering wheel "protects it" in a roll over accident...

Other guys have mounted them on the "hood" because they wanted to "look" at them, but have broken them off or broken them up in a roll over...(and YES it most certainly WILL bite you)...ask Al..

I have mine, one on the hood "under" the steering wheel and my new one (also just came in today) will go "in" the steering wheel where it's protected....

To be honest... other than a quick glance during a practice run, i very rarely look at my tach during a race... I just need the logged info "after" to help tweak the setup...

A lot of the guys running the bigger or more "expensive" units set them down under the steering wheel, on the dash mount or top of tunnel... that way you can see it during a caution or red flag if you want, it's convienient for after race downloading, and still protected "during a race...

Again..very few people actually look at (or need to look at ) the tach during the race...better to keep eye on traffic and the track...

If you set your limits correctly, it will "flash" if you go over and that will alert you to a problem... the flashing you can see "at a glance" and you don't really need the tach exposed to notice it...
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on February 01, 2007, 06:56:41 am
Nice man, how much did it cost?

EBAY...$124.00


Thanks Squidd for your input.....I had no intention of really looking at it during race time. IT will be mounted in a location where I can at least see it (per your suggestion) if I reach one of the limits and during cautions.

Does Digatron make the "BAGS" for these or does someone else?

Anyone on here a Digatron Dealer?
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Squidd on February 01, 2007, 07:01:40 am
Not sure if Digi make the bags or they are aftermarket... but I did get one with mine...

ARC, EC, and G Team all deal in Digi...(or you could try a digi bag search on e-bay, I've seen a bunch there)
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: allen minaker on February 01, 2007, 01:30:39 pm
Yeah thanks for reminding me of the tach and hood that got busted up in MOWhio . But Squidd does make a good point , they look cool on the hood but it dont look so cool when there broke and not workin .
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on February 01, 2007, 08:12:23 pm
Played around an hour or so in the garage tonight.....tried about 6 different locations to where this tach is going to go.....Finally ended up placing it below and behind the steering wheel. It safe there, not in the way when I need to shift and can glance at it thru the wheel.

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0009-4.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0009-4.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0007-4.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0007-4.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0005a.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0005a.jpg)
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on February 03, 2007, 08:16:36 pm

Back out to the garage again......

Made a plate for in between the dash and rear fenders...
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0016-3.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0016-3.jpg)

Made a dash panel out of a sheet of aluminum and drilled an access hole for the tachs signal wires
(Don't worry, I will be installing a grommet  before I'm done!)
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0015-4.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0015-4.jpg)

Also installed a volt meter just so I know the condition of the battery!
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0013.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0013.jpg)

Still have to do some more thinking on where to put a few other items, wiring and still need to do my clutch as soon as I get some components in from Don G.!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Chris on February 04, 2007, 10:17:20 am
DUDE!!!! That dash looks sick!!!!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on February 06, 2007, 07:39:12 pm
DUDE!!!! That dash looks sick!!!!
Thanks!

Now with the new engine I need to add a oil pressure gauge as well!!!


Here are a few new pics I took tonight....

Got my new engine today!!!!
20HP V-Twin Vanguard

Here it is sitting in the chassis.
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0002.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0002.jpg)

Look how the stock head pipes fall into place!
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0005-6.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0005-6.jpg)

With the hood on!

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0007-5.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0007-5.jpg)

Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: matt25001149 on February 06, 2007, 07:46:03 pm
motor didnt take very long to get there :thumbsup:
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: offroadwhatever8 on February 06, 2007, 07:49:34 pm
holy crap, that is just freeken awsome
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on February 06, 2007, 08:12:04 pm
motor didnt take very long to get there :thumbsup:

Paid for it 9:30 am yesterday morning and was sitting in front of my garage when got home at 5:00pm today!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: fox_racin4 on February 06, 2007, 10:16:58 pm
i guese you didnt get my PM??    if you dont yous those exhaust flanges i will take them off your hand.
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on February 06, 2007, 10:30:36 pm
i guese you didnt get my PM??    if you dont yous those exhaust flanges i will take them off your hand.
Just PM'd YA!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: fox_racin4 on February 06, 2007, 10:39:33 pm
ok ok i just got it
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Scurry Murry on February 06, 2007, 11:06:21 pm
I don't know if I missed the message or not but, if you are switching to a v-twin ohv. Won't you have to move up to the B/P class. C/P rules state:

All single-cylinder overhead valve and two cylinder valve in block engines 20 hp and under.

Did I miss something??? Is that engine not an overhead valve motor?


Well I should of taken the time to read your other posts. My bad  :omg:, I won't let it happen again.
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on February 06, 2007, 11:07:07 pm
I don't know if I missed the message or not but, if you are switching to a v-twin ohv. Won't you have to move up to the B/P class. C/P rules state:

All single-cylinder overhead valve and two cylinder valve in block engines 20 hp and under.

Did I miss something??? Is that engine not an overhead valve motor?



You are correct.....This change to my build just took place about 4 hours ago!

Sorry for the confusion........

ATTENTION ALL READERS OF THIS TOPIC. SINCE I'M CHANGING ENGINES ON THIS BUILD IT WILL NOW BE A B/P CLASS MOWSHINE.

Heck, if I can swap engines fast enough Maybe I'll run both classes!!!!
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Scurry Murry on February 06, 2007, 11:10:24 pm
Yeah that would be interesting, are you gonna hire a pit crew.  :lol:
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: money89tractors on February 06, 2007, 11:40:21 pm
Where can i fill out an application :D

-Phil

*sorry im off topic a bit*
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: eddiehenjr on February 07, 2007, 07:55:09 am
That dash looks awesome.  Isn't that thing a little complicated to use and isn't it a little hard to see it while you're driving?  I'll stick to a traditional mechanical/electric attentuator tachometer mounted on the hood or top of the dash thank you - technology scares the crap out of me :lol:
Naaaah it more intimidates me.
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on February 07, 2007, 09:09:22 am
That dash looks awesome.  Isn't that thing a little complicated to use and isn't it a little hard to see it while you're driving?  I'll stick to a traditional mechanical/electric attentuator tachometer mounted on the hood or top of the dash thank you - technology scares the crap out of me :lol:
Naaaah it more intimidates me.


Thanks for the compliments!!

I really don't plan on watching the gauges during race time. During a caution I'll glace down at it just to see if all is OK. I can actually see that tach quite easily. I would like it mounted up on top of the dash but scared it will get damaged in an accident or mishap. It's really protected where I have it mounted. I think I sat on the mower for about an hour before I found the location that I liked for that tach!

Now I need to add a oil pressure gauge to the dash and am also considering a Autometer  PRO-LITE to warn me if oil pressure drops during race conditions.
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: matt25001149 on February 07, 2007, 11:24:32 am
good idea bout the light! would never thought of that :thumbsup:
Title: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on February 07, 2007, 11:59:54 am
good idea bout the light! would never thought of that :thumbsup:

I had a few racecars in the past....no time to look at gauges...the lights have saved me a lot!

The can be set-up as a shift light, you can use them for low oil pressure warning, high water temp warning, oil temp warning.....and so on!

Here's a few images so all knows what I'm talking about.

(http://www.horsepowerfreaks.com/images/products/Autometer/Shift_Lights_Pro-Lite_Warning.jpg)

(http://www.horsepowerfreaks.com/images/products/Autometer/Shift_Lights_Pro-Lite_Mini_Warning.jpg)


I have used the larger ones in the past, may look into the smaller ones for the mower
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Chris on February 07, 2007, 12:20:49 pm
...Won't you have to move up to the B/P class.

Seems that the title of the thread says it's a B/P ;)
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: eddiehenjr on February 07, 2007, 01:22:01 pm
If I used a tach, I'd mount it right into my line of vision, so I don't have to take my eyes off the track to look at it.  That way I don't blow anything up see... :lol: we wouldn't want that!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Squidd on February 07, 2007, 01:38:41 pm
Now if we could just get Digitron to come out with LOS (line of sight) projections onto the inside of our face shields...(like they do on Jet Fighters)... :omg:
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on February 07, 2007, 01:55:38 pm
If I used a tach, I'd mount it right into my line of vision, so I don't have to take my eyes off the track to look at it.  That way I don't blow anything up see... :lol: we wouldn't want that!

REV limiter my friend!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: eddiehenjr on February 07, 2007, 05:23:19 pm
And who makes those?  MSD?
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: cycloneracer on February 07, 2007, 08:10:05 pm
Warm up that check book Randy!   Digatron makes one!!!!!  Go to thier site http://www.digatronusa.com/ look at the bottom of the page.

Later
Paul
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: matt25001149 on February 07, 2007, 08:22:59 pm
thats pretty effing sweet
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Scurry Murry on February 07, 2007, 08:27:40 pm
I'm glad i have a birthday coming up, that gauge set up will be at the top of my list. :D
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: George Herrin on February 07, 2007, 10:37:20 pm
Yup they sure do!!! VERY NICE piece
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Squidd on February 07, 2007, 10:46:29 pm
That's what I'm talking about....
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: eddiehenjr on February 08, 2007, 09:43:15 pm
Yeah that's all good and sweet but how much $$kaching$$ are you willing to spend when all you gotta do is glance down at a gauge every minute or so to save a few hundred bucks?
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Squidd on February 08, 2007, 09:50:07 pm
Quote
all you gotta do is glance down at a gauge every minute or so to save a few hundred bucks?


It's the 30 -40 seconds "between" the minute or two that can fry your motor and cost you thousands...

Beside it's kinda like Star Wars Pod Racing with the laser images flashing thru your head... :woo:

How Cool is that....???
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: eddiehenjr on February 09, 2007, 08:06:23 am
Yeah that does sound pretty sweet!!  Well who makes a rev limiter for small engines?  I'd just buy a rev limiter and go with a regular tach.  Then you have no fears of going boom :lol:
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on February 09, 2007, 08:42:21 pm
Here are a few more updates I did tonight.....


Bad Picture, but installed my oil pressure gauge in the dash...
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0003.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0003.jpg)

Then I started the build of my BUTT-HOLD-IN-PLACE support.

Here you can see some of the brakets I have attched to the steel seat pan
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0001-9.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0001-9.jpg)

Another View of the brackets
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0002-6.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0002-6.jpg)

I then mounted a piece of .125" aluminum to the brakets and installed edge guard all the way around.
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0008a.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0008a.jpg)

Inside View
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0006-10.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0006-10.jpg)


One more view
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0009-5.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0009-5.jpg)

I have some standard bolts holding the side plate on, but will be changing them out for some nice Stainless Steel button head screws as soon as I can get to the store!

Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on February 10, 2007, 07:16:59 am
Here's a question........the way the original seat was mounted it was allowed to FLIP UP to access the bottom adjusting bolts to move the seat back and forth. For safety, I made the seat solidly attached so it's not bouncing me around during a race. Now, the only way I can readjust the seat would be to completely unbolt it. Could I slightly enlarge an existing hole that is under the seat (on the fender) to gain access to this seat adjustment? That way I can reach right under and make a seat change in less than a minute vs. the 10+ minutes it takes now! Thanks!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Squidd on February 10, 2007, 08:54:10 am
Unless your shareing your ride with other drivers....

Once you get the seat position set...it will be very unlikely you will ever move it...

Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on February 10, 2007, 09:00:08 am
Unless your shareing your ride with other drivers....

Once you get the seat position set...it will be very unlikely you will ever move it...




That was what I was thinking but due to lack of experience I could be wrong!

I have over 4" of front/rear adjustment on this seat and was thinking that mabe with different track conditions a seat adjustment (weight transfer) may help.....I guess it will be learned from experience!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: eddiehenjr on February 10, 2007, 10:54:51 pm
That's nice!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on February 12, 2007, 06:54:57 pm
Back out to the garage once again!!! I figured tonight was a good night to haul the mower deck down to the garage to make a “DECK” for my racer.

We are going to get around 12” of snow starting sometime tomorrow and if I didn’t drag this deck from out behind the shed now, it could be buried for a while!



Here is the deck with the two sections cut off to be used.
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0006-11.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0006-11.jpg)

Here is one of the above cut sections that I have marked to “THIN” the deck to be about as thick as my running board.
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0011.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0011.jpg)

Here it is trimmed to size and being held up againd the running board.
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0009-6.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0009-6.jpg)

Another view. With the rear wheel width set at 37.5” the deck halves fall about 1.5” narrower then the rear track width.
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0014-3.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0014-3.jpg)

Here it is tacked into place.
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0015-5.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0015-5.jpg)

Another View that shows the thickness (or lack of!) of the deck.
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0016-4.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0016-4.jpg)

Yet one more view!
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0018-5.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0018-5.jpg)


The other side was done just as a duplicate to this side but didn’t bother taking pics!

So…..They both need final welding and molding into the running board then I can check that item off the list!


Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: eddiehenjr on February 12, 2007, 08:27:29 pm
That looks pretty awesome!  I thought they had be deeper than that, but if that's right, you can really slam it close to the ground with good clearance!  Nice job!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Squidd on February 12, 2007, 09:13:41 pm
There's still a 4" ground to frame minimum...and a 2 1/2" ground to deck minimum to consider....

Without "channeling" the body over the frame (which you can not do) the thinner deck won't help you "slam" (lower) the overall effect...

But actually, the "higher" ground clearance on the deck as shown, avoids "dragging" thru the dirt ruts on the track that sometimes develop...
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: DanW on February 12, 2007, 10:31:17 pm
It also prevents catching the deck pieces on any tree roots that may be in the backyard during a test run...  :P
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on February 13, 2007, 07:58:51 am
I copied how George did it on his build. Made 100% sense and looks so much better than a low hanging deck.

As you guys mentioned, something less to get hung up on as well!!!

As of this writing we are going to be getting 10-14" of snow....So I'm glad I did this part of the build last night!

Tonight I will make the hood latch, drill the chassis for the new engines bolt pattern, cut a slot into the rear panel for gear clearance and make the guard. 8)

Now if I can get Don to ship me my gearbox, pullies and gears I should have a  rolling chassis ready for an engine with about four (4) more hours worth of work!

Then engine time......

Just did a quick calculation of money spent to date for all parts used, some spares, 2 engines, and a misc steel that I didn't have around the shop......................




........$1865.00!!! :woo:

I didn't even get to the engine yet!!! I have a feeling that this engine is not going to as "wild" as I thought it was going to be :(

At least I know a have a good solid chassis!

I'll do a few things with the engine but can't spend to much on it at this time. (Still have to put together two more racers for the kids!)

Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: eddiehenjr on February 13, 2007, 08:01:18 am
There's still a 4" ground to frame minimum...and a 2 1/2" ground to deck minimum to consider....

Without "channeling" the body over the frame (which you can not do) the thinner deck won't help you "slam" (lower) the overall effect...

But actually, the "higher" ground clearance on the deck as shown, avoids "dragging" thru the dirt ruts on the track that sometimes develop...

Yeah, I guess I was thinking about it the wrong way :lol:

On my mower, I think I'm gonna just do what everyone told me.  Build up the frame steering and brakes first, and then worry about my motor.  I might just run it stock for a season and hope it holds together.
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Squidd on February 13, 2007, 10:01:59 am
With a good chassis, solid prescice steering, smooth rolling wheels and good brakes....you will do just fine with a stock motor...
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: LVine2001 on February 13, 2007, 10:15:22 am
The way I see it you have options.

#1 Run it with whatever engine mods you can afford and just have fun. Depending on the level of competition in your area you might be ok.

#2 Put a stock flatty in it (relitively inexpensive) and run IMOW for this year. That way you can still be competitive (in class) and you have a year to get the handeling setup nailed down and save a few $$ in the meantime.

Just my .02
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Squidd on February 13, 2007, 01:30:31 pm
Quote
#2 Put a stock flatty in it (relitively inexpensive) and run IMOW for this year. That way you can still be competitive (in class) and you have a year to get the handeling setup nailed down and save a few $$ in the meantime.

That'as kinda what I was getting at...

If your starting with a limited budget, you can either have a "half built" motor on a "half built" chassis and run mid pack or worse...
Or you can have the killer smooth prepared chassis and the exact same stock goverened motor as everybody else and have a darn god shot at running up front...

Than the following year...with the same kind of budget...you already have a complete and smooth chassis so go all out on the motor of your choosing...that prepared chassis (as long as it's long enough) will run in any of the other classes...
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Chris on February 13, 2007, 04:25:40 pm
As of this writing we are going to be getting 10-14" of snow....

Yeah, we're supposed to get hit really hard out here :omg:

I have a feeling that I wont have power for at least all of Wednesday, and more than likely won't be able to get out of the driveway...

Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: eddiehenjr on February 13, 2007, 04:28:26 pm
I'm gettin the snow right now!!

The way I see it you have options.

#1 Run it with whatever engine mods you can afford and just have fun. Depending on the level of competition in your area you might be ok.

#2 Put a stock flatty in it (relitively inexpensive) and run IMOW for this year. That way you can still be competitive (in class) and you have a year to get the handeling setup nailed down and save a few $$ in the meantime.

Just my .02

That's what I want to do, but I'd be lucky if I can get a flatty and still have the chassis and everything in IMOW condition.  Right now, I have a 17.5 OHV... I'd hate to downsize.
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: LVine2001 on February 13, 2007, 04:45:59 pm
That's a single? if it is you might be ok for this year, in C/P. Being that it's a new class it's the first year for mow-st guys.
Sure there are some that will go wild, they always do.

For the most part I think the learning curve on the OHV will keep everyone in the same boat for at least the first half of the season anyway.
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: eddiehenjr on February 13, 2007, 09:51:30 pm
That's a single? if it is you might be ok for this year, in C/P. Being that it's a new class it's the first year for mow-st guys.
Sure there are some that will go wild, they always do.

For the most part I think the learning curve on the OHV will keep everyone in the same boat for at least the first half of the season anyway.

Yeah, it's a single.  Just a stock OHV single.

Yeah I see your point... since it's a new class, it may not be that big/experienced.

What do you mean "learning curve"?
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on February 14, 2007, 08:58:23 am
Well, decisions, decisions, decisions.....................

I know I do not want to move down to a governed class so IMOW is out.

Forget A/P for my mowshine will be to big and heavy

S/P could be a possibility

C/P was my initial intentions but that was because I have 2 40CI engines...may still go the CP route with the opposed twins mostly because other than some standard performance upgrades (porting, valve train, shaving, and cam) that is all that can be done due to nothing avail...so that kinda keeps the cost down!

B/P--I would really love to run this class for the speed...but really don't think my budget right now can afford it.

F/X...Down the road!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Squidd on February 14, 2007, 11:54:04 am
Quote
Well, decisions, decisions, decisions.....................

One of each...!!..:badgrin:

Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: allen minaker on February 14, 2007, 12:12:14 pm
Now that would be awsome , but I can tell you one thing you would be one tired puppy after a day of racing .
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on February 14, 2007, 01:16:05 pm
Oh someday...one of each!!!

I'm debating right now between the opposed twin (CP) and V-TWIN (BP).

Love to run BP (V-TWIN) right now but it's one of those CATCH 22 things. If you only do certain things the ones you didn't do will fail (ex: spend money on cam, flywheel, head work....then the connecting rods will fail destroying all around them!). when all is said and done I'll have well over $2000.00 into the motor to do it right.

Then on an opposed twin...other than head work, valve train and a cam..that about all that you can do because of limited availability of performance parts! I can put together an opposed twin for less than half of that.....but then again I'm dealing with obsolete technology where replacement parts can be hard to come by.

Maybe I'll just throw the V-twin in see what she does in stock form!



Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: LVine2001 on February 14, 2007, 03:05:39 pm
"Iron Man" Dave Stratton ran 3 classes ap, sp & bp all of 06'.

Will he go for 5 (adding IMOW & fx) in 07'? 

Talk about a weight loss program.

He was wringing wet and grinnin' ear to ear, in Forest City Ia, last year.
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: allen minaker on February 14, 2007, 04:19:05 pm
Yeah that's why we call him the IRON MAN , your right though I don't think you could get that smile off his face at a race ....any race .
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Squidd on February 14, 2007, 05:26:15 pm
This brings up an interesting topic/problem/conundrum...

How many classes do you run, can you run, should you run..???

Do not answer here and take this thread off topic...

I will start a new thread....and post link Here... (http://www.heymow.com/index.php/topic,2936.msg33697.html#msg33697)
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on February 24, 2007, 12:10:46 am
Well back out to the garage again tonight!

Had to decided on my steering set-up and went with this:

Note* any'ol nuts and bolts were used for mock up purposes only. Hardware will be upgraded. Also, most brackets are only tacked into place and the steering arm off the shaft is going to be replaced with a one piece arm.

Steering links are hardend .375 solid rods with MALE threaded ends. The rod ends are FEMALE with .375 studs.

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0010-5.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0010-5.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0009-7.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0009-7.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0008-4.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0008-4.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0007-6.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0007-6.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0006-12.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0006-12.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0005-7.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0005-7.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0004-12.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0004-12.jpg)
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: mightymowe on February 24, 2007, 06:05:08 am
I was just thinking that looks a little goofy for geometry.When you turn all the way to the right the rod that comes from your steering wheel to the front almost goes over centre,if you hit a few bumps it could go over centre and lock there,unless it hits the pully on the engine and then you wont be able to turn all the way right anyway.
You might want to play with some different length linkages as well it looks like your steering wheel only turns about a 1/4 turn all the way from one side to the other,that is going to be very hard to steer(lots of effort on the wheel)especially with those big front tires,and really twitchy at speed.You want to try to get as much motion on the steering wheel as possible.I suggest about a 1/3 to 1/2 turn each way from center to each side it makes it much nicer to drive.
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on February 24, 2007, 08:36:05 am
I was just thinking that looks a little goofy for geometry.When you turn all the way to the right the rod that comes from your steering wheel to the front almost goes over centre,if you hit a few bumps it could go over centre and lock there,unless it hits the pully on the engine and then you wont be able to turn all the way right anyway.
You might want to play with some different length linkages as well it looks like your steering wheel only turns about a 1/4 turn all the way from one side to the other,that is going to be very hard to steer(lots of effort on the wheel)especially with those big front tires,and really twitchy at speed.You want to try to get as much motion on the steering wheel as possible.I suggest about a 1/3 to 1/2 turn each way from center to each side it makes it much nicer to drive.

It's just 1/4 turn lock to lock. Steering stops have not yet been installed and they will eliminate any over center issues.

Steering does not even come close to interfering with the pulley.

I am still going to refine it. I would like to get 1/4" turn from center to one direction. Overall I'm shooting for 1/2 a steering wheel turn lock to lock.

Even with the way it is now...it turns quite easy sitting on the ground in a static position. Obviously while moving it becomes eaisier.....but I DO want to get another 1/4 turn out of the steering wheel for the overall 1/2 turn lock to lock.

I think if I shorten the pitman arm of the steering shaft it may help may help.

Anyone else have suggestions?
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Squidd on February 24, 2007, 10:25:32 am
Thats some pretty wacked up geometry....

I'm sure it "works" in that it moves the wheels from side to side , but at what cost (tire scrub and instabilty)..??

Center tie rod ends should be "side by side" rather than front and back as shown...the way it is one tierod/wheel travels (and turns) further than the other.. in "both directions"...!!

Proper Ackerman would have the inner tire turning further than the outside tire in "either" direction...

This pic ... The tires have "even" radius (will scrub)
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0006-12.jpg)

and this pic...he inner tire is "tighter" than the outer (no scrub)
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0005-7.jpg)
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on February 24, 2007, 11:15:37 am
Maybe I'll just do a plain and simple steering.....I was kinda bored last night and thought I'd give it a shot. Oh well.....
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Squidd on February 24, 2007, 11:41:56 am
Your on the right track, just gotta make some geometry adjustments..(good thing everything is just tacked)

Side by side on the bell crank tab and shorten both steering rod links... That will help eliminate the "overcenter" leverage...
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: grassthrasher on February 24, 2007, 12:23:52 pm
WOW rely nice mower

by the way I rely like how you did your dash with the aluminum nice job
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on February 24, 2007, 01:22:59 pm
Your on the right track, just gotta make some geometry adjustments..(good thing everything is just tacked)

Side by side on the bell crank tab and shorten both steering rod links... That will help eliminate the "overcenter" leverage...


From what I can understand from your description.....

Shorten up pitman arm.

Relocate bell crank centerline to the right. (is there a measured distance for this or are we lining this up with something?)

Make bell crank so each link is side by side, not stacked like mine.

Is that what I understand?

Thanks for your advice too!!! :bow:


Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: mightymowe on February 24, 2007, 05:15:59 pm
the pitman arm would only have to be shortened by about 1/2 inch to gain quite a bit on the steering wheel unless you shorten the other arm
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Fox on March 16, 2007, 11:24:54 pm
Well...got the steering the way I like it now.

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0001-10.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0001-10.jpg)


Back out to the garage again tonight for an couple of hours.......

Made up a gear shroud/cover
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0030.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0030.jpg)

Played around with the tranny and chain idler (not shown here)
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0029.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0029.jpg)

made up and mounted clutch pedal
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0026.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0026.jpg)


Made up my clutch tonight as well.

With pedal depressed
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0024-1.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0024-1.jpg)

With clutch pedal at rest
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0023-1.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0023-1.jpg)

Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 3/16/07
Post by: Squidd on March 16, 2007, 11:31:10 pm
Clutch action looks good...

Except for the part where the belt is wraped around the running board and all jambed up in the steering gear...:lol:
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 3/16/07
Post by: Tom Fox on March 16, 2007, 11:36:29 pm
Clutch action looks good...

Except for the part where the belt is wraped around the running board and all jambed up in the steering gear...:lol:

Yep....the fun of having a belt that 2 feet longer than you need!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 3/16/07
Post by: rather_be_racin on March 17, 2007, 11:42:50 am
i like the sprocket on the 350
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 3/16/07
Post by: grassthrasher on March 20, 2007, 03:28:58 pm
Is that a home made clutch system?  :confused:
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 3/16/07
Post by: Scurry Murry on March 20, 2007, 04:05:38 pm
I noticed on your sprockets; they are really close together are you going to run a tensioner.
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: money89tractors on March 20, 2007, 07:36:57 pm
...Played around with the tranny and chain idler (not shown here)
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0029.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0029.jpg)...

-Phil
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 3/16/07
Post by: Tom Fox on March 20, 2007, 08:29:01 pm
i like the sprocket on the 350

That tranny and sprocket is a G-TEAM Special recipe!

Is that a home made clutch system?  :confused:


Yes

I noticed on your sprockets; they are really close together are you going to run a tensioner.

Yes
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 3/16/07
Post by: 300xdeere on March 20, 2007, 11:36:33 pm
That seems like such a big tranny sprocket and the final ratio in that 350 is higher than a 700 if I'm not mistaken, what is it geared for speed wise? And um Chris thats what I was talking about for your mower the double pulley set up.
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 3/16/07
Post by: Tom Fox on March 21, 2007, 06:43:48 am
That seems like such a big tranny sprocket and the final ratio in that 350 is higher than a 700 if I'm not mistaken, what is it geared for speed wise?



Don at G-Team set me up with pullys, 3 different tranny sprockets, and a couple sets of split gears for the axle. (the largest ones are now seen in the above picture)

Don did do some internal modifications to the gearbox and may have changed finial output ratio (haven't checked it as of this writting).

MY guess is that Don doesn't like to wind these gearboxes out (based on engine and trans pully sizes) and the output gear size makes up that difference.

Time will tell once she's on the track!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 3/16/07
Post by: Tom Fox on March 22, 2007, 10:18:49 pm
Here are a few more pics of the bottom side. You will see:

The clutch is mounted (need a new return/tension spring).
The brake MC is mounted and linkage completed (need to add return spring).
Installed an idler pully on the LONG side of the belt.
Installed belt guides (need to add 1 more on the clutch)


(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0004-14.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0004-14.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0003-9.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0003-9.jpg)


Bottom side is just about done. I have to measure up the belt and order me up a few, Final weld a few points....and that should do it.

Still playing around with my chain idler....but shoud have that completed tomorrow.

I'll get the exhaust built up this weekend and either the following weekend or the one after she'll be out for a test run!

Then she comes apart for paint!

Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 3/22/07
Post by: murray1 on March 23, 2007, 01:11:16 pm
Maybe I missed something, but since your bell on your ackerman steering is off center, will that still give you true ackerman steering?
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 3/22/07
Post by: Tom Fox on March 23, 2007, 03:32:33 pm
Maybe I missed something, but since your bell on your ackerman steering is off center, will that still give you true ackerman steering?

With the off center bellcrank it gives you a slight left side bias in Ackerman. If the bellcrank is centered it would give equal ackerman in both directions. The initial reason I offset the bellcrank was thinking I might have a clearance issue from the engine crankshaft to steering linkage. I later "LEARNED" that even if I centered the bell crank it would still clear.....so for now it stays right where it is.

Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 3/22/07
Post by: murray1 on March 23, 2007, 04:09:32 pm
Alright. How is the clearance from the top of the tie rod to the bottom of the frame? That machine looks moweriffic! Any paint scemes picked out yet?
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 3/22/07
Post by: Tom Fox on March 23, 2007, 05:59:09 pm
Alright. How is the clearance from the top of the tie rod to the bottom of the frame? That machine looks moweriffic! Any paint scemes picked out yet?

I slightly notched the frame where the tie-rods would travel over. If not the tie rods would slightly rub against the frame.

As for paint......Stuck between these....

Keep it the original Craftsman colors of black and gray/silver

Paint it all black and make it into a KNIGHT RIDER mower complete with the light!
(http://www.knightlight.co.uk/images/anim/products/ks01id.gif)
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 3/22/07
Post by: murray1 on March 26, 2007, 12:38:00 pm
Haha nice, I use to race a Craftsman in the races I had around home. Well keep us up todate with the build
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 3/22/07
Post by: tractorman on April 02, 2007, 07:18:55 am
i have a craftsmen where do you mount the cassestes above the stock transaxle mounts or above the next hole over

stock transaxle mounts
or the other holes
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 3/22/07
Post by: Tom Fox on April 02, 2007, 08:00:16 am
They get mounted directly above the centerline of the original transaxle. Height depends on class rules and tire size. If you move the mounts "OFF CENTER" of the original transaxle, you are altering the wheelbase. If your rules say that you can not alter wheelbase you would be illegal if you offset the cassettes from the original axle location.
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 3/22/07
Post by: Tom Fox on April 04, 2007, 09:26:29 pm
Mocked up the exhaust tonight. All joints just tacked on for now.

All pipes starting from the cylinder head are 1" ID then stepped up to 1.250" and finish at 1.50"

Still have to weld on a "BUNG" for my EGT sensor.

Here is the front pipe from the left head crossing over to the right side.
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0009-8.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0009-8.jpg)


Here you can see where both left and right pipes exit the chassis on the right side.
(yes...No tire to exhaust clearance issues)
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0005-8.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0005-8.jpg)


Here you can see the pipes terminate about 1/4" from the edge of the mower deck.
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0011-4.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0011-4.jpg)

One more pic of the same.
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0013-9.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0013-9.jpg)

The pipes are tucked right up under the running board. With the chassis ride height set at 4.250" I have 3.750" of ground clearance from the ground to the bottom of the exhaust.






Here is a side view of what it looks like
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0014-4.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0014-4.jpg)


Another view with a WANNA BE hood scoop for the fun of it!
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0015-6.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0015-6.jpg)

So at this point the chassis is done. Just have to go thru it and final weld a few locations.

All that is left with the BODY is to make up some screens or covers to go in place of the original headlights.

Then its bodywork and paint time!!!

Then comes ENGINE MOD TIME!!!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 04/04/07
Post by: tractorman on April 04, 2007, 09:36:37 pm
LOOKS GOOD mowman hope mines turns out just as good. What color are you going tp paint it.  :twothumbsup:  :twothumbsup:
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 04/04/07
Post by: Tom Fox on April 04, 2007, 09:38:11 pm
LOOKS GOOD mowman hope mines turns out just as good. What color are you going tp paint it.  :twothumbsup:  :twothumbsup:

See reply #256
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 04/04/07
Post by: Scurry Murry on April 04, 2007, 11:13:46 pm
Just curious, since I like your foot pedal idea so well i'm thinking about doing the same... But it looks like the linkage for your clutch i'm assuming would bind with your exhaust. How about some pics of that linkage set up, I hope I didn't miss anything from a previous post.
I found a pic of the clutch linkage set up so never mind the post #252, but how about a pic with the exhaust set up underneath....
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 04/04/07
Post by: Tom Fox on April 05, 2007, 06:56:48 am
Just curious, since I like your foot pedal idea so well i'm thinking about doing the same... But it looks like the linkage for your clutch i'm assuming would bind with your exhaust. How about some pics of that linkage set up, I hope I didn't miss anything from a previous post.
I found a pic of the clutch linkage set up so never mind the post #252, but how about a pic with the exhaust set up underneath....

I've already started taking the mower apart for final welding....but BOTH pipes fit pefectly between the OUTSIDE of the FRAME and where the PEDAL comes thru the RUNNING BOARD. The pipes are tucked right up to the bottom of the running board with maybe an 1/8" air gap between the two. A couple of support tabs have been added so the pipes are not just support at the flange as well.
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 04/04/07
Post by: mowdak1 on April 05, 2007, 08:36:12 am
See reply #256

Click that little bitty (http://www.heymow.com/Themes/default/images/post/xx.gif) at the top of the post you're directing folks to Guys, and it will snap that post to the top of your browser and set the URL to that specific post. You can then right click the address bar to highlight the entire address and set the drop menu in one click, and copy the url of the specific post you're referencing, rather than referring to it by post number.


In that fashion readers can simply click the link to go back to the post in question, they don't have to sort through the entire thread looking at post count.
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 04/04/07
Post by: Tom Fox on April 05, 2007, 09:15:50 am
Learn something new every day! Thank You!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 04/04/07
Post by: mowinmachine on April 05, 2007, 11:38:27 am
As for paint......Stuck between these....

Keep it the original Craftsman colors of black and gray/silver

Paint it all black and make it into a KNIGHT RIDER mower complete with the light!


 If you paint it black, I agree that it would be extra-sweet if you used the Knight rider light. They sell the kits you know...
http://www.quasarelectronics.com/1088.htm
 Some of the deluxe kits actually have buttons to push so it'll say: " I will now engage the turbo boost" How awesome would that be during a race?

 All kidding aside, we have the same mower and I almost painted mine black. I think the square body style on this generation of sears would look pretty good straight black.
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 04/04/07
Post by: mowdak1 on April 05, 2007, 11:52:04 am
Learn something new every day! Thank You!


Yes sir, you're welcome Tom!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 04/04/07
Post by: grassthrasher on April 05, 2007, 04:38:44 pm
look sick good job  :twothumbsup:
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 04/04/07
Post by: Tom Fox on April 06, 2007, 08:20:00 am
look sick good job  :twothumbsup:

Thank you!
----------------------------------------------------------------------
The MOWCHINE is all broken down now. Final welding has been done, Need to do some smoothing of the mower deck to the foot rests with some Bondo, then she's ready for paint.

Cleaning the garage this weekend (from the accumulated mess of the build). Setting up a "clean" area for motor teardown and modifications!

Once paint color is 100% decided....then I'll squirt the color!

I have a crazy work week coming up then I take off for a 7 day long CRUISE to the Western Caribbean!

So progress will get slowed down a bit...but oh well!

Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 04/04/07
Post by: allen minaker on April 06, 2007, 08:34:30 am
i think I could live with missing a little mower time to go to the Caribbean , Sound like a fair trade .  LOL
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 04/04/07
Post by: Chris on April 06, 2007, 08:34:51 am
As for paint......Stuck between these....

Keep it the original Craftsman colors of black and gray/silver

Paint it all black and make it into a KNIGHT RIDER mower complete with the light!


 If you paint it black, I agree that it would be extra-sweet if you used the Knight rider light. They sell the kits you know...
http://www.quasarelectronics.com/1088.htm
 Some of the deluxe kits actually have buttons to push so it'll say: " I will now engage the turbo boost" How awesome would that be during a race?

 All kidding aside, we have the same mower and I almost painted mine black. I think the square body style on this generation of sears would look pretty good straight black.


SO GOING ON MY MOWERS!!!!!

(and maybe even my car) :lol:
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 04/04/07
Post by: nor66 on April 06, 2007, 06:56:21 pm
Really good looking mower dude,paint black and gray looks really good when complete!!!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 04/04/07
Post by: lawnmow3r on April 06, 2007, 08:21:09 pm
well a little further in the post i saw your axle whatkind of steel is that off hand
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 04/04/07
Post by: Tom Fox on April 06, 2007, 08:22:52 pm
well a little further in the post i saw your axle whatkind of steel is that off hand


Front or rear axle?
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 04/04/07
Post by: redline on April 06, 2007, 08:46:19 pm
Looks awesome, but for the paint I think yellow with a black stripe up the hood would look killer, plus it would tell people your coming so get out of the way!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 04/04/07
Post by: lawnmow3r on April 06, 2007, 08:49:46 pm
rear
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 04/04/07
Post by: Tom Fox on April 06, 2007, 10:47:02 pm
rear

36" LONG
.250" WALL
1.250" DIA.
CHROME MOLY
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 04/04/07
Post by: lawnmow3r on April 07, 2007, 09:33:53 am
but do you actually know the material its made out of 40/41 a steel etc
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 04/04/07
Post by: Tom Fox on April 07, 2007, 09:53:57 am
but do you actually know the material its made out of 40/41 a steel etc

4130
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 04/04/07
Post by: Dave Fires on April 29, 2007, 01:09:19 am
Hey MOWMAN,  Got that good looking RIG painted yet ?           Dave
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED 04/04/07
Post by: Tom Fox on May 12, 2007, 09:40:57 am
Finished squirting the last color this morning..........

Sorry that the pics are on the DARK side....darn flash on camera was not working when I needed it to!

Still needs to be lettered up with my primary sponsors decals...gotta put all the other "REQUIRED" decals on as well.

Hopefully I'll have this rolling this afternoon and get some OUTSIDE in the SUN shots....it looks soooo much better in the daylight!


(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0009-9.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0009-9.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0002-7.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0002-7.jpg)

Here is one when the flash decided to work!!!

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0008-5.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0008-5.jpg)


Mower was painted with TRACTORS SUPPLY Farm and Implement paint (rattle can version). Paint and supplies cost me aprox. $30.00.

After I sanded down the grill for paint...it was still kinda PITTY from all the rust that was on it...I then decided to spray the grill with a can of BEDLINER coating. It gave it a nice texture and should help resist chipping while debris is thrown at it on the track.
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: PAINTED 05/12/07
Post by: SeanStanley on May 12, 2007, 09:51:59 am
awesome looking
the colors look great  :twothumbsup:
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: PAINTED 05/12/07
Post by: Negrey on May 12, 2007, 03:48:04 pm
What happened to original craftsman colours?
Anyways, I like it!
:3gears:
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: PAINTED 05/12/07
Post by: grassthrasher on May 12, 2007, 08:21:19 pm
looks nice n' shinny good job   :twothumbsup:

did you put clear cote on it ?
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: PAINTED 05/12/07
Post by: Tom Fox on May 12, 2007, 08:30:57 pm
Here are some better shots when I rolled it outside today!!!

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0009-10.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0009-10.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0008-6.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0008-6.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0007-7.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0007-7.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0006-13.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0006-13.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0004-16.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0004-16.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0003-11.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0003-11.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0002-8.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0002-8.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0001-13.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0001-13.jpg)


looks nice n' shinny good job   :twothumbsup:

did you put clear cote on it ?

Nope...Don't plan on it either.
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: PAINTED 05/12/07
Post by: chini on May 12, 2007, 11:15:42 pm
 That mower looks really nice, good job Kevin
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: PAINTED 05/12/07
Post by: grassthrasher on May 13, 2007, 10:18:00 am
wow that looks rely good for no clear cote   :omg:

looks sick
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: PAINTED 05/12/07
Post by: Tom Fox on June 25, 2007, 09:45:49 pm
Here are a few more images for ya!

Machine is ready for engine!!

All wired up, brakes bled, frontend set, all sharp corners removed...ect...ready to rock and mow!

Now I gotta give George a call about my engine  !!

Anyhow....

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0010-6.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0010-6.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0009-11.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0009-11.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0008-7.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0008-7.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0007-8.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0007-8.jpg)

Just have to install the engine and put a number on the front and it's off to the races!!!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: PAINTED 05/12/07
Post by: grassthrasher on June 25, 2007, 11:08:25 pm
she looks fast !!  :woo:
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Tom Fox on July 09, 2007, 09:51:20 pm
When I went to my local chapters TEST and TUNE day a few weeks ago, I brought my mower so they can do a TECH INSPECTION on it even though it was engineless!! My thoughts are to get the mower inspected so if something MAJOR needs to be addressed I'd like to find out NOW instead of at the first race event!

Anyhow....My mower checked out just fine. I did have a word of advice from our chapter president about the location of my battery. When I originally built my mower I had a LAWN & GARDEN tractor battery mounted behind the steering shaft. At first it seemed just fine...then I got thinking about some of the upcoming race weekends I have (Got a 3 day show in mid-August). Well, Being a worrybody I had to find a better location for my battery....well the big problem was the battery was BIG!...I tried for hours to find a better location for the battery, but no place would work. After scratching my head and loosing more hair..I decided to talk to George.....After a few pointers and some advice I ended up not using a standard LAWN AND GARDEN battery. I ended up going with a SEALED, Non-Spillable personal watercraft type battery. It is rated at 310 CCA and only 3/4ths the size of a L&G battery! This allowed me to fabricate a battery box in front of my transmission. Installed a strap and WALA! I can now change my battery in less than a minute!

Only down side is the cost.... a L&G 310 CCA battery can be had for about $30.00......this battery I used was  $100.00!!

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0010-7.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0010-7.jpg)


I WILL NOT be using the battery cables you see in the picture...they are 6 Gauge and am afraid of to much resistance. I will be installing a MUCH heavier gauge!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: mowinmachine on July 10, 2007, 02:30:30 pm
I tell you one thing I saw at Kragen Auto Parts the other day that I thought I might use. They are these tiny, rechargeable emergency starter batteries. They are small enough to fit in your hand. Since they're rechargeable, you can use them over and over. They're meant to start cars, so they have enough to start a lawn mower. Kudos on getting a sealed battery by the way. The wet ones can explode ( unlikely) and they could splash in your face since you had it sitting right in front of you.
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: outlawmower on July 19, 2007, 12:47:01 pm
How long was the steering shaft? I am now needing to order one and didnt know how long it should be?
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: cycloneracer on July 19, 2007, 01:33:25 pm
Order the longest one and cut the extra off.  It is hard to add to a shaft!  I ordered the long shaft from American power sports and I cut off about 6-8 inches.  But I have my wheel a bit higher than most.  I don't like to hit my elbows on my knees!

Paul
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: crocco58 on July 19, 2007, 08:17:01 pm
Looks great Tom :twothumbsup:
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: KartMan250 on July 30, 2007, 09:54:42 pm
incredible job, but you have officially made me seriously jealous
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Tom Fox on August 30, 2007, 09:21:03 pm
Few changes....New number, New decals, New engine!!!!  Just have to install the exhaust, throttle and a couple of wires!!!!

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0007-9.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0007-9.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0006-15.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0006-15.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0005-10.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0005-10.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0004-17.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0004-17.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0003-12.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0003-12.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0002-10.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0002-10.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0001-14.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0001-14.jpg)
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: THawley08 on August 30, 2007, 09:40:09 pm
I'm guessing you got the "flood" cleared up. Are you going to MOWHio?
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Tom Fox on August 30, 2007, 10:03:59 pm
I'm guessing you got the "flood" cleared up. Are you going to MOWHio?

Flood all dried up....no MOWHIO for me.....I a couple of local chapter races coming up..Then shooting for Shelby ,NC in Nov for the first 08' USLMRA race!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: George Herrin on August 30, 2007, 10:20:41 pm
Tom, I am impressed with your attention to detail. Very nice looking. And if I might add, the #6 sure looks right at home on her too.... You know that adds a couple MPH to it also.
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: cycloneracer on August 30, 2007, 11:36:04 pm
VERY NICE!  I like the AN fittings, they look very cool.  Was going to do that to mine, but $$$$ was to much!

Paul

Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Tom Fox on August 31, 2007, 06:17:01 am
VERY NICE!  I like the AN fittings, they look very cool.  Was going to do that to mine, but $$$$ was to much!

Paul




Your right on the $$$ end of running AN fittings and Stainless line!!!  Just the fuel filter you see mounted by the starter was $50.00!!! Sure I'll never have buy another filter......but WOW!!!! I had 95% of the line and fittings from previous projects/race vehicles....but...If I was to actually go out and purchase NEW lines and fittings....It would have been around $100!!!

My fuel tank is actually a JR. DRAGSTER fuel cell that had AN fittings on it....so...I had to use some nice pretty line!!! Then I installed a 12" piece of stainless coming off the rear of the lower engine pan. I put a plug at the end of this 12" line. I can then grab this line, undo the plug and drain my oil right into a gallon jug without spilling a drop!

I also ran a -3 line for my oil pressure gauge.

The fun part was trying to make "0" guage welding cable go where you want it to!!!!!

The final countdown list:

Waiting on a new CHT sensor to arrive (broke my original one).
Waiting on a EGT fitting.
Have to wrap my exhaust.
Need to hook up my kill (tether) wires.
Need to hook up throttle
Put fuel in tank

PUSH THE START BUTTON!!!

Once the engine is up and running...I just want to go over all hardware to make sure everything is tight and secure! As long as I get the last of my needed parts today...I'll be out in the field this weekend giving it a little shakedown, then I'll be taking it to a small local dirt kart track mid-week for a real good shakedown!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Tom Fox on September 02, 2007, 09:18:33 am
I've had a few PM's over the past couple of days asking me how is my mower wired........The attached image shows you how I wired mine. Thanks

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_WIRINGVG2.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/WIRINGVG2.jpg)
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Tom Fox on September 03, 2007, 05:34:38 pm
Well....She runs like a rocket!!!! I didn't have enough property to properly "open her up"...but for a nice 200' strech I do have....HOLY GOOBERS!!!


Anyway...with the exception of a couple odds and ends.....(reposition hand throttle, re-route a couple wires) she is ready to go!!!


I'll say one thing.....FRONT BRAKES are going on over the winter!!! My rear brakes work great...but I can see how the front brakes will improve the stopping power!

Anyway..here are a few mower poses for ya!!

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0011-5.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0011-5.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0009-12.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0009-12.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0008-8.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0008-8.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0007-10.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0007-10.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0006-16.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0006-16.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0005-11.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0005-11.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0003-13.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0003-13.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0002-11.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0002-11.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0001-15.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0001-15.jpg)


Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: birdman_express on September 03, 2007, 09:56:09 pm
Man Tom..... you made me have to go and change the way I look at craftsman mowers.
*Cough* Uh... Really nice mower. There, I said it.  :noplease:
Hope you have lots of fun on it. Thanks for giving us this build.

Marc
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: LVine2001 on September 13, 2007, 01:18:56 pm
Is anyone interested in free mowers (I have 2 now)  like this one (Tom's) ?
It's missing a mowing deck and the engine is gone otherwise it's all there and best of all ....free !!

Located in Minneapolis, Mn.

Lemme know.

Lee
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: benfield_boy on September 13, 2007, 07:13:31 pm
Thats one slick ride ya got there! Do you run any tire prep on races?
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Tom Fox on September 13, 2007, 09:35:14 pm
Thats one slick ride ya got there! Do you run any tire prep on races?

No
Well, With my truck being lifted..it is a nightmare to get a mower up and into the bed...Then with it being a short bed..no room left over for all the extras needed at a race!!

I want an enclosed trailer, but not in the budget til next spring......so....

I ended up picking up a donor trailer frame. It was one of those NORTHERN TOOL  40" x 48" trailer with little 15" tall tires. I got it off ebay for $100.

The platform was way to small to put a tractor on. So a trip to the steel shop for some 2" angle. 30 feet ran me $60 cash.

Welded up a platform to mount onto the original 40" x 48" frame.

I had some 2x10's so that took care of the deck.

I wanted to put some type of stone guard...so I improvised and used an old formula car wing I had in the shed!

The original tires/wheels were in like new condition....but way to small. I needed to raise the trailers height in order to get it level. I'm already running a 8" drop hitch and hate the look of those dinky tires anyway!!!!  So a trip to TRACTOR supply and $140.00 later got me some new skins.

So some quick math:
$100 initial donor trailer
$60 steel
$140 tires/wheels

About 6 hours of my labor ( I didn't even pay myself!)

This adds up to $300...Works for me!

Here are some pics!


(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0006-17.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0006-17.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0008-9.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0008-9.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0004-18.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0004-18.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0005-12.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0005-12.jpg)


I had some left over rattle can paint from the mowers paint job.....so the trailer got some of the same colors as the mower!

I had some ramps so that makes loading and unloading quite easy!

Now I have the entire bed of the truck to haul all the extras!

Just thought I'd share!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: THawley08 on September 13, 2007, 10:04:50 pm
I like the trailer will help with gas
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Tom Fox on September 14, 2007, 06:25:41 am
I like the trailer will help with gas


Well I'm sure there won't be any wind resistance!!! My truck should block it all!!

This is just a temp. trailer until the funds get accumulated for a nice 16' enclosed trailer!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: cycloneracer on September 14, 2007, 08:10:21 am
Cool little trailer Tom!  But please be carefull when pulling it.  It appears that you won't be able to see it when pulling it.  Those little trailers can do some stupid stuff if pulled at speed.  I would suggest putting a old junker mower on it and pulling it.  Those springs will make the trailer jump when hitting a bump and if your mower don't weigh enough (and being a racer it probably don't) that trailer will jump a lot.  Also the hitch is a bit short, or at least it is in the pics.  So don't turn to short or you will have a bent bumper!  Also try to get it to sit level behind your truck so it don't catch the wind.  You will be suprised how hard it will pull.  Sitting that high it will have a ton of wind resistance and if it is tipped a bit, it will be worse.

Just be careful!  I know how much work you have put into that mower and I don't want to see pics of it after it rolled down the intersate!

Later
Paul
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Tom Fox on September 14, 2007, 09:52:48 am
Cool little trailer Tom!  But please be carefull when pulling it.  It appears that you won't be able to see it when pulling it.  Those little trailers can do some stupid stuff if pulled at speed.  I would suggest putting a old junker mower on it and pulling it.  Those springs will make the trailer jump when hitting a bump and if your mower don't weigh enough (and being a racer it probably don't) that trailer will jump a lot.  Also the hitch is a bit short, or at least it is in the pics.  So don't turn to short or you will have a bent bumper!  Also try to get it to sit level behind your truck so it don't catch the wind.  You will be suprised how hard it will pull.  Sitting that high it will have a ton of wind resistance and if it is tipped a bit, it will be worse.

Just be careful!  I know how much work you have put into that mower and I don't want to see pics of it after it rolled down the intersate!

Later
Paul


I actually went out this morning to Homey Depot and picked up two 4' fiberglass driveway markers that I'm going to mount on the back two corners of the trailer. That way I can at least see if it is still there while I'm towing!!!

The hitch is a standard length, at least compared to the utility trailers they sell at Homey depot.

I think even if I did a hard turn..the trailer would go under my bumper!!

The trailer sits about 1.5" higher in the front as compared to the back. once I load the bed of the truck up with all the extras it should drop about an inch. making it pretty level.

The trailer has some pretty good weight to it. those 2x10's helped a bit!!
When I installed the 2X's I have about a .750" gap between each...just for that reason of catching air.  I'd say the trailer weighs in around around 300 pounds. Then a 300 lb mower...600 all together....should ride pretty smooth actually.

I do plan on taking it for a test drive tomorrow with the mowing lawn mower....and give it a good workout!!!

Thanks for your concern!!!

Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: hotrodmower16.5 on September 14, 2007, 11:25:03 am
I do plan on taking it for a test drive tomorrow with the mowing lawn mower.

I can see it now,Tom goes speeding down the road and hears something looks back and see's the mowing mower bouncing down the road, Tom comes home goes into the house and says: I have been thinking it's time we bought a new lawn mower. :badgrin:

But i do hope everything goes alright with your trailer,You might want to weld some hooks on the side's for the straps, because a buddy of mine was hauling his less then a year old four wheeler and it fell off of the trailer when he hit a small bump, The reason it fell off was he did not have a good place for his strap's to hold and they came loose when he hit the bump, It bent three out of four rims busted two tires bent the handle bars and cracked 40% of the plastic.
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: greenmachine on September 14, 2007, 01:37:16 pm
Looks good Tom, both the Mower and the trailer.

I suggest an even lower drop hitch. I tow all my trailers with the tounge slightly lower then the rear of the trailer, seems to help with stability. Also, when loaded, keep more weight in front of the trailer axle than behind it.

Something that you may want to consider too for peace of mind towing a small trailer like that you can't see is to install a backup camera with a monitor in the dash, it's nice to be able to see the load is OK behind you. It'll be a nice upgrade on an already nice truck and a big help manuvering the trailer when backing up something you can't see.
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: benfield_boy on September 14, 2007, 02:33:40 pm

When I installed the 2X's I have about a .750" gap between each...just for that reason of catching air. 

 :confused:Did you space them like that or did you push them together and let them shrink down on there own?
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Tom Fox on September 14, 2007, 07:41:05 pm
.
Looks good Tom, both the Mower and the trailer.

I suggest an even lower drop hitch. I tow all my trailers with the tounge slightly lower then the rear of the trailer, seems to help with stability. Also, when loaded, keep more weight in front of the trailer axle than behind it.

Something that you may want to consider too for peace of mind towing a small trailer like that you can't see is to install a backup camera with a monitor in the dash, it's nice to be able to see the load is OK behind you. It'll be a nice upgrade on an already nice truck and a big help manuvering the trailer when backing up something you can't see.

Well I've been meaning to LOWER the truck a bit...The truck has a 6" lift kit. So tonight I decided to lower it two inches. I was using a 6" block in the rear and just changed it out to a 4" one that I had. The truck is a 1/2 ton but when I put the lift in...8 years ago I changed out the 1/2 ton torsion bars for 1 ton bars. This gave me about an extra 2" of from lift...well as you guessed it..I put the 1/2 ton bars back in tonight as well.

Now the truck sits 2" lower and rides 10x better (not as stiff).

Now with the trailer on it sits nose down by a 1/2 inch. this should also keep more weight on the tongue.

:confused:Did you space them like that or did you push them together and let them shrink down on there own?

I purposely spaced them that way so air can flow thru and rain/snow can melt thru
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: greenmachine on September 14, 2007, 09:00:26 pm
.
Well I've been meaning to LOWER the truck a bit...The truck has a 6" lift kit. So tonight I decided to lower it two inches. I was using a 6" block in the rear and just changed it out to a 4" one that I had. The truck is a 1/2 ton but when I put the lift in...8 years ago I changed out the 1/2 ton torsion bars for 1 ton bars. This gave me about an extra 2" of from lift...well as you guessed it..I put the 1/2 ton bars back in tonight as well.

Now the truck sits 2" lower and rides 10x better (not as stiff).

Now with the trailer on it sits nose down by a 1/2 inch. this should also keep more weight on the tongue.

I think that was a very wise decision. Sky high rough riding trucks get old after a while and your body will thank you as you get older too....Don't ask me how I know :lol:
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Tom Fox on October 08, 2007, 09:09:56 pm
A few updates.....The trailer towed beautifully!! Took road bumps and such like a Cadillac.

After My first event (had a 2nd place finish in my class)...I found that my mower had so much power that I had a real hard time keeping the front end on the ground.

After looking at my seat height I realized it was way up there!! I ended up doing a few mods to the factory bracket and removing all the foam on the seat bottom. These mods gave me almost 2" drop in my butt height! I also moved my seat forward 2.5". I'm 6' tall and having the seat back just was so much more comfortable for my height...but that moved most of my weight right behind the axle...So now with the seat forward..it should help keep some more weight forward and the front end down!!!

The downside to moving the seat forward is that my pedals were almost impossible to use in a comfy and safe way. Also my DIGATRAON tach was now interfering with the newly contoured shifter......So.... I cut and welded up some new pedals this evening. They feel perfect!!! Had to move the tach to the steering wheel. overall feels great...my only concern is the seat back...While sitting on the mower, I feel to "FITTED" to the seat and wonder If I can even fall out if I wreck...I'm going to give it a run in a couple weeks at a test/tune/awards day for our LC. We will see how she does!!

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0029-1.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0029-1.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0028.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0028.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0026-1.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0026-1.jpg)


I also went from a 1" tall foot guard to a 2" tall one.
(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0025.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0025.jpg)
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Squidd on October 08, 2007, 09:20:39 pm
You may find being "fitted" to the seat (being one with the mowchine) a much more relaxed feel as you can concentrate on driving rather than holding your butt in position..

Wouldn't worry about being "stuck" to the seat in an accident... Pretty sure you'll go flying...

Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Tom Fox on October 09, 2007, 11:21:40 am
You may find being "fitted" to the seat (being one with the mowchine) a much more relaxed feel as you can concentrate on driving rather than holding your butt in position..

Wouldn't worry about being "stuck" to the seat in an accident... Pretty sure you'll go flying...



You got a great point on feeling more with the machine. Just from the few test laps I did in the yard Ifelt so much more in control.

I was going to swap out for a lower back seat..But I like the security of my back being somewhat protected.
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Chris on October 11, 2007, 08:08:12 am
.
Well I've been meaning to LOWER the truck a bit...The truck has a 6" lift kit. So tonight I decided to lower it two inches. I was using a 6" block in the rear and just changed it out to a 4" one that I had. The truck is a 1/2 ton but when I put the lift in...8 years ago I changed out the 1/2 ton torsion bars for 1 ton bars. This gave me about an extra 2" of from lift...well as you guessed it..I put the 1/2 ton bars back in tonight as well.

Now the truck sits 2" lower and rides 10x better (not as stiff).

How did your IFS hold up with that? I'd imagine you went through a few CV boots at least having it cranked that much.

That's one nice trailer, I need to get myself one. I found out a few weeks ago that even with ramps it's VERY hard to get a mower in the back of my truck, and it's not even lifted that much; yet...

Just ended up putting it in with a tractor. Easy to get in, not so easy to get out!!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Tom Fox on October 11, 2007, 09:39:26 am
How did your IFS hold up with that? I'd imagine you went through a few CV boots at least having it cranked that much.


I did over the years change both axles once. The biigest issue was the ride...rode like it had minimal suspension....all better now!!!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Chris on October 11, 2007, 09:41:24 am
Yeah, when you crank or swap torsion bars it definitely takes you along for a ride! The problem is that it's really hard on the front suspension and driveaxles. Have you checked your ball joints at all? If you haven't, you really should. That's the part its the hardest on. I've seen some really bad things happen when a balljoint fails, and that looks like a nice shiny newer truck, and I wouldn't want to see one of your front tires go on vacation!!!


Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: grassthrasher on October 12, 2007, 10:51:59 am
I haven't bin on in a long time and wow it :censored: sick good job lots of new modifications looking good  :wow:
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Tom Fox on October 12, 2007, 11:42:01 am
I haven't bin on in a long time and wow it :censored: sick good job lots of new modifications looking good  :wow:

Thank you.....Took my time, followed ton of advice here on the forum, took some advice from my local chapter guys, and had fun building it!!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Tom Fox on November 24, 2007, 06:37:34 pm
Well, gave her a run today. It was 27* outside but it felt great!!!

Tomorrow she goes up on the stands for the winter :(

Winter plans include:

New front spindles.
Front brakes.
Send my DIGITRON out for service (one segment dead)
Change my fuel tank for one that I can see thru instead of guessing how much fuel is left.
Drop my rear fender down another .500"
Redo my exhaust (2 into 1 instead of true dual)

I'll buy a few more spares parts and that should do it!!!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Tom Fox on December 08, 2007, 05:24:36 pm
Out in the garage today!!!!

Today I rerouted my exhaust and changed it from a TRUE DUAL into a 2 INTO 1


My pipes from the heads run about 13-16" and are 1"
From there they merge together into a 2.5 pipe. This pipe is aprox 10" long.
From the end of the 2.5" pipe I welded on a 3" diameter 45* turn out pipe.

The 2.5 and 3" pipe were massaged into an OVAL shape to gain much needed ground clearance.


(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0003-14.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0003-14.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0005-16.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0005-16.jpg)

The vise grip will be removed!! :)

Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Mike Gentry on December 08, 2007, 05:29:57 pm
I like the exhaust n all , but that new style VISE GRIP EXHAUST CLAMP really caught my eye  :lol: Ill have me one of those  :D

Looks really nice , good work
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD UPDATED 12-8-07
Post by: Tom Fox on December 10, 2007, 08:55:30 pm
Fired it up today.......I only ran it up on the work table....but what a different sound!!! I thought I liked the way true duals sounded before..............this monster sounds better than a NEXTEL CUP CAR!

Can't wait to give her a run!!!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD UPDATED 12-8-07
Post by: George Herrin on December 10, 2007, 10:57:32 pm
I know my exhausts systems.... As good as it sounds it will run that much better TOO!!!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD UPDATED 12-8-07
Post by: mowerman90 on December 18, 2007, 09:13:39 pm
that is a sweet exhaust set up i like the oval shape it looks like a mustange with side pipes
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD UPDATED 12-8-07
Post by: Tom Fox on December 19, 2007, 06:03:00 am
that is a sweet exhaust set up i like the oval shape it looks like a mustange with side pipes

Turned out nicer than I thought myself! And like I said.....the tone is AWESOME!!!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD UPDATED 12-8-07
Post by: Tom Fox on January 12, 2008, 09:30:45 am
I race-prepped 2 700 series tranny's last night!!! No more 350 for me!!

Here is a couple pics of just one...

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0017-4.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0017-4.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0083.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0083.jpg)


(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0109.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0109.jpg)



I'm putting together a step-by-step w/photo's on the assembly and race prep of my p700 tranny.

It will have over 100 pics of each step of the reassembly & race prep I performed per Georges race-prep topic.

Should be up by end of day tomorrow :)
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD UPDATED 12-8-07
Post by: MadNax on January 12, 2008, 10:09:12 am
Hey Tom.......Your work area is entirely too clean........Could you please scatter a little debris around so I won't feel so bad about mine???  LOL!

Really, It looks good....I wish I had the discipline to keep my shop that neat. Looking forward to the pics.
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD UPDATED 12-8-07
Post by: grassthrasher on January 12, 2008, 10:25:31 am
that it rely nice of you to do that and take all that time to upload all thos pics thanks  :D
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD UPDATED 12-8-07
Post by: Tom Fox on January 12, 2008, 10:26:05 am
Hey Tom.......Your work area is entirely too clean........Could you please scatter a little debris around so I won't feel so bad about mine???  LOL!

Really, It looks good....I wish I had the discipline to keep my shop that neat. Looking forward to the pics.


I'm sorta of a organizational freak......Everything has it place, and do my best to keep my work area clean....Projects then seem to flow much smoother that way for me and less of a chance to loose that little part in a pile of junk!!!

I should have all the pics up within the hour!!!! It will be a new topic in the DRIVELINE SECTION....Will post link here when it's up.
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD UPDATED 12-8-07
Post by: George Herrin on January 12, 2008, 10:32:26 am
two of those gears look very familiar LOL....
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD UPDATED 12-8-07
Post by: Tom Fox on January 12, 2008, 10:37:22 am
that it rely nice of you to do that and take all that time to upload all thos pics thanks  :D

I just want to help others to be able to do as much as they can on their own mowshines!!

I REALLY enjoy teaching and helping all I can.

Plus I'm just worn out  today...trying to shake a cold...so I'm just sitting here in my Archie Bunker chair typing away!!!

(http://myspace-943.vo.llnwd.net/00002/34/93/2283943_l.jpg)

------------------------------------------------------
two of those gears look very familiar LOL....

Yep...they were imported from the south!!!

L
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD UPDATED 12-8-07
Post by: George Herrin on January 12, 2008, 10:48:23 am
Quote
I just want to help others to be able to do as much as they can on their own mowshines!!

I REALLY enjoy teaching and helping all I can.



And thats why that number 6 will serve you so well.  ;)
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD UPDATED 12-8-07
Post by: THawley08 on January 12, 2008, 06:46:51 pm
Hey Tom any chance you can get a video of your mower running I'm curious about how it sounds.
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD UPDATED 12-8-07
Post by: TheMowinCuban on January 12, 2008, 09:24:23 pm
I second that!   make sure its on photobucket though...
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD UPDATED 12-8-07
Post by: George Herrin on January 12, 2008, 09:27:48 pm
A video is a waste of time. It doesn't sound the same as hearing it in person.
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD UPDATED 12-8-07
Post by: TheMowinCuban on January 12, 2008, 09:38:23 pm
its not like i can take a ride down to his house...

don't forget that i'm the kid that has never seen a racing mower in person....
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD UPDATED 12-8-07
Post by: George Herrin on January 12, 2008, 09:40:57 pm
I realize that but its still a waste of time.
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD UPDATED 12-8-07
Post by: overkillphil on January 13, 2008, 12:11:59 am
Tom, out of incredible curiousity, why "no more 350 trans" for you?
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD UPDATED 12-8-07
Post by: Tom Fox on January 13, 2008, 08:54:15 am
Hey Tom any chance you can get a video of your mower running I'm curious about how it sounds.

I second that!   make sure its on photobucket though...

A video is a waste of time. It doesn't sound the same as hearing it in person.

Answered perfectly by George!!!

There is no way to replicate the sound and FEEL on any type of video or recording.

Put it this way.......It sounds better than most open pipe Harleys in my area and I will even go as far as saying that it even sounds/feels better than some local V8 racecars at a local dirt track!!!


Tom, out of incredible curiousity, why "no more 350 trans" for you?

Few reasons.........

1) Parts availibility.....NONE!!! These are discontinued...your only spare parts are going to be from other USED transmissions.

2) Modifications needed to make these race worthy surpass my knowledge and equipment needed. Don at G-TEAM does a great job on these....but I'm the type that need to be able to know what needs to be done and have the equipment to do so....Don does a bit of "SPECIAL" work he does not share (Don't blame him...he learned and created business income out of it).
With a 700 series....I can do whatever it may take on my garge, order up new parts from my local power equipment shop....ect

3) Internal gear selection ratio.....The two race gears  (2nd & 3rd) their ratios between the two are wide and far. This means a need for a axle sprocket change depending on track size to work with my engines power band. Not a pain to do...but until you get to the track and see the layout/length...I'll be swapping gears around to find the best "fit" for a track. With a 700 series...the ratios are so much closer that a simple shift into another gear is all it takes to dial my engine into the track I'm on!

4)  Another concern I have with the 350/400....is the output shaft life. I really liked my tranny....but I'm pushing some real good HP this year and even ask Don....He has seen the shfts fail due to excessive HP.....Now look at the 700's and the power people have been putting to them....self explanitory

The 350 tranny is a real nice tranny. Will hold up great in many racing classes. And if you do decide to run one...YOU MUST contact Don at G-TEAM to perform modification prior to running it.
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD UPDATED 12-8-07
Post by: overkillphil on January 13, 2008, 11:08:30 pm
Thanks for that thorough explanation Tom.  My build (coincidently) is the same Craftsman as yours, however I have picked up some 700's for mine over the past few months.  I was intrigued by your choice of the 350 trans when I read through your build,  but as you say they are hard to find.  In my area, I was lucky to find 700's if that puts it into perspective.

BTW, excellent detailed info and pics. today on your 700 project.  Thank you for taking the time to post all that info for everyone.
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD UPDATED 12-8-07
Post by: Tom Fox on January 14, 2008, 08:32:16 am
Thanks for that thorough explanation Tom.  My build (coincidently) is the same Craftsman as yours, however I have picked up some 700's for mine over the past few months.  I was intrigued by your choice of the 350 trans when I read through your build,  but as you say they are hard to find.  In my area, I was lucky to find 700's if that puts it into perspective.

BTW, excellent detailed info and pics. today on your 700 project.  Thank you for taking the time to post all that info for everyone.

You welcome!!! Like I said before...I share stuff that I learn thru my build and experience.

I may not give particulars of my ENGINE out for everyone in the world to know.....some things need to be left in confidence between a racer and their engine support team.

I will do WHATEVER it takes to attract more involvement in the sport of LMR. I'm very happy and thankful with ALL the support I've had over the construction of my build and just want to GIVE BACK and help the "NEW" guy whom may be considering LMR.

Here is the link to the 700 build I posted in the DRIVELINE  section: http://www.heymow.com/index.php?topic=5644.0
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Dustin-thewind on March 11, 2008, 04:36:15 pm
Hello Tom I was wondering what transaxle was in there when you got it,I am looking at a mower just like that a buddie has for sale for $200 it would gie me an extra engine and mabie transaxle.and other parts.I tride to look at it yesterday but I dont think I can tell for shure without taking the transaxle off.Thanks
Larry
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Tom Fox on March 11, 2008, 04:59:55 pm
FOOTE
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Dustin-thewind on March 11, 2008, 05:11:34 pm
Thanks Tom.
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: LTV10 on March 26, 2008, 05:59:09 pm
Tom Fox,
How long was your steering shaft? My frame is being sand blasted and I would like to start ordering some parts this week.

Thanks,
LTV10
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Tom Fox on March 26, 2008, 09:59:25 pm
Tom Fox,
How long was your steering shaft? My frame is being sand blasted and I would like to start ordering some parts this week.

Thanks,
LTV10

I'll get a measurment for ya in the morning!!!



Here are some new pics I took today.....Mower has had its winter updates and changes and ready for the new race season!!!

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0016-6.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0016-6.jpg)
Rear view showing my new OUTBOARD brake set-up. I'm now running a 10" diamter .250" Junior Dragster rotor w/ MCP caliper


(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0015-9.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0015-9.jpg)
Here is a pic showing my new butt holder-onner the seater support.

Also, as you will see in this and other photo's that I built a DOGHOUSE that covers my tranny and battery.
I seeked approval from JIM WITT (USLMRA TECH MAN) prior to constructing and suggest anyone CHANGING or modifying do so prior to making a change. Also KEEP the emails of your conversation and approval in case it gets questioned down the road.



(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0013-11.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0013-11.jpg)
I also removed all the seat coverings from seat. Installed a .375" piece of high density foam on the seat bottom.
I also got my seat much more forward than when I originally built my racer. Got my seat height down to around 17.750"

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0011-9.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0011-9.jpg)
Here is a view of command central! Got my $1.00 (closeout at local AUTOZONE) shifter ball on my 700 tranny.

Kinda hard to see, but if you look right above the #6 on the dash you will there see my FRONT to REAR brake bias adjust knob.

Also, to the left of the knob, mounted on the outside of the console, I installed an AUTOMETER PRO-LITE low oil pressure light I had in the garage for years. It is hooked into my oil pressure line and will light-up when my oil pressure drops below 30lbs.



(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0010-11.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0010-11.jpg)
Here you can see my two brakes master cylinders (one for front and one for rear)
You can also see my bias adjuster.

I still need to "TUNE" them in once I get it on a track for test and tune day.


-------
Just a few misc shots!

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0009-15.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0009-15.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0008-13.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0008-13.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0007-15.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0007-15.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0006-24.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0006-24.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0005-22.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0005-22.jpg)
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: amr5080 on March 26, 2008, 10:12:17 pm
very nice work. can tell you really pay attention to detail. everything is so clean
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: nor66 on March 26, 2008, 10:22:17 pm
Looked great before, even looks better now! Great Work!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: cycloneracer on March 26, 2008, 10:27:35 pm
Very nice Tom!  Can't wait to see that thing in person.  You making any LONG adventures with it this year?  How about Nationals?   Your just so far to the EAST!  Just mapquested you, your 1200 miles away!

Did I buy a brake caliper off you?  Or was it someone else?  Gold one off a Kawasaki bike?

Later
Paul

Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Tom Fox on March 26, 2008, 10:36:32 pm
Very nice Tom!  Can't wait to see that thing in person.  You making any LONG adventures with it this year?  How about Nationals?   Your just so far to the EAST!  Just mapquested you, your 1200 miles away!

Did I buy a brake caliper off you?  Or was it someone else?  Gold one off a Kawasaki bike?

Later
Paul

Yea...kinda tough for us NORTH EAST racers!  Last week when I traveled 600 miles to pick up my trailer I spent $150 in fuel!!  I do plan on getting to some NATIONAL races SOMEWHERE!...just not sure where yet!

I sold a GOLD caliper to someone on here....it might have been you!!! Just don't remember whom bought it!! LOL
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: cycloneracer on March 26, 2008, 10:39:00 pm
Sent you a P.M.!!!!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Tom Fox on March 27, 2008, 08:12:23 am
Tom Fox,
How long was your steering shaft? My frame is being sand blasted and I would like to start ordering some parts this week.

Thanks,
LTV10


Tip to tip...it measures 28"
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: George Herrin on March 27, 2008, 08:27:19 am
I highly recomend you tight jam nut on the linkage w/o the remote bias cable. IF NOT it will walk out and NO BRAKES.
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Tom Fox on March 27, 2008, 08:36:51 am
Already Done! Everything  was just "loose" when I was just setting my initial bias adjustments yesterday.

I love the 700 tranny I have in it now!!!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Josh705 on March 27, 2008, 01:30:49 pm
Looks great!!!


On the stock transaxle that was in there, do you know threads are on the shift lever??
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: overkillphil on March 27, 2008, 10:28:06 pm
Tom, that C-II is looking real fine.  Although I have to ask, how much clearance do you have between the fenders and the tires?  From the pictures it looks like you would have to measure with a feeler gauge!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Tom Fox on March 27, 2008, 10:54:25 pm
I can see a little light with my RR at 30lbs..... :)
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: PAINTED 05/12/07
Post by: bfd811 on June 27, 2008, 07:53:24 am
Here are a few more images for ya!

Machine is ready for engine!!

All wired up, brakes bled, frontend set, all sharp corners removed...ect...ready to rock and mow!

Now I gotta give George a call about my engine  !!

Anyhow....

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0010-6.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0010-6.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0009-11.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0009-11.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0008-7.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0008-7.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0007-8.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0007-8.jpg)

Just have to install the engine and put a number on the front and it's off to the races!!!

Lotta buttons i want pedal steering and a tach on the hood but the tether on the dash
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: kohler guy on June 30, 2008, 11:15:43 am
Tom,
Do you still have the foote 5 speed that came in the mower?

Thanks,
Kohler Guy
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Tom Fox on June 30, 2008, 12:51:30 pm
Tom,
Do you still have the foote 5 speed that came in the mower?

Thanks,
Kohler Guy

I think I do.  Will Know for sure later when I get home. On the road now.

Interested?
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: kohler guy on June 30, 2008, 01:28:39 pm
Yeah intrested....

Looking for a spare transaxle for the IMOW.
Will you sell it cheap?

KG
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Tom Fox on June 30, 2008, 06:15:49 pm
just got home and yanked it off the shelf...


(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0002-23.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0002-23.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0003-25.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0003-25.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0004-26.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0004-26.jpg)

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0001-28.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0001-28.jpg)




Ran it thru all gears...all is good!

Pretty clean, no leaks, no cracks, and it was working perfectly when removed to build my racer.

Just looked on EBAY and looks like these sell for around $45.00 to $125.00 used.....

Will let this one go for $40.00 + shipping



Let me know!


Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: kohler guy on June 30, 2008, 06:56:01 pm
Will PM you in a little while but one last questions... You got a shifter for it? Seems like I am having a hard time finding a shifter for these.

Thanks,
Kohler Guy
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Tom Fox on June 30, 2008, 08:05:46 pm
PM'd ya!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: wayne shaffer on July 04, 2008, 10:45:20 pm
Tom I was woundering did you use a go kart master cylinder with the motorcycle caliper and what kind of spindles did you use on your
front axle. I really liked how you done your front axle. Thanks for sharing your build I got alot of ideas from it.
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Tom Fox on July 05, 2008, 06:59:48 am
Tom I was woundering did you use a go kart master cylinder with the motorcycle caliper and what kind of spindles did you use on your
front axle. I really liked how you done your front axle. Thanks for sharing your build I got alot of ideas from it.

At the time of build I used a MC Caliper and Master. I have upgraded this past winter to KART (MCP) rear caliper and Master running a 12" rotor. I also now run FRONT BDS brakes.

Original spindles were el-cheepo AZUZA ones. By the end of my first race (without hitting anyone/anything) they were bent. They may work fine on an IMOW...but would not trust them on a fast class mower. Just to soft.

I now run EC front spindles...from the way they are built..you would have to hit a brick wall to bend them!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: pjhusske on July 05, 2008, 11:21:04 am
I took a AZUZA spindles cut off there bolt and welded me a Grade 8 bolt on it and have no problem with bending now. I run in the ModX class.
But my next build will have EC front end on it. I know that for sure
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: turbolicious on August 30, 2008, 12:33:16 pm
I love the way your build came out!! What an inspiration for my craftsman lawnmower :)
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: STOKERACE on November 09, 2008, 03:22:13 pm
 
I just seen the pic you have of the tranny. I just bought a mower for 20 bucks and it has this tranny. I plan on installing it on my hotrod mower Im building. Why is this a good tranny for racing? What the difference between the 350 and the 400? The only numbers I can find on it is " 401a 6 6" and the patent number on the other side. It has two output shafts and one input. 3 speed with reverse. Is this a 350 or a 400?  any help is appreciated.  Tom R Mitchell          tmitchell2401@att.net

 :confused:






Didn't start the build but will continue to post progress along the way.

Here is the mower as she sits:

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0010.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0010.jpg)


1986 Craftsman II, 14 hp Twin Cylinder.

Got the tractor for free and she runs without smoken!!

Plans are to Strip down to bare frame, install motor plate and transmission, install a live axle, Peerless 350 transmission, Run the 14hp twin cylinder til she blows!

Here's the hard to find PEERLESS 350 3 speed transmission!!

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0013-2.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0013-2.jpg)


Stay tuned for further updates!!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Squidd on November 09, 2008, 04:38:11 pm
Sounds like a 400 series tranny... They are OK for racing, but hard to find parts for, so if you set your machine up for one, make sure you have a back up plan ready...
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: mowdak1 on November 09, 2008, 06:45:50 pm
Given the model number a 400...

Easiest way to tell without the numbers, the 350 will have open brass bushings, the 400 will have capped roller bearings on the end of the shafts.

The 350 can be converted, but it's costly.
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: #1 briggs racer on November 15, 2008, 12:47:56 am
what do u type in on ebay and other places for trannys like 700 or 350 400wat ever one i have the same mower but is an 11 hp one i like the front end better
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Slick Rick on November 15, 2008, 09:37:59 am
Heres whatcha do....Type in Peerless in the search bar, then when page loads scrool down a bit and look on the left and you'll see "Yard Garden and Outdoor Living" click this. It should bring you where you want to go.
Hope this helps. :)
Title: Re: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: Tom Price on December 17, 2008, 10:42:20 am
Here are a few more pics of my build.
I needed to place one of my engines in place to set the fuel cell location


Had to mock up a fuel cell mount………

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0008-3.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0008-3.jpg)


Here is the fuel cell on the mount.
I still need to make the straps to secure it

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0006-9.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0006-9.jpg)


Here is how she looks with the console in place

(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0005.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0005.jpg)


Here she is all-together!


(http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/th_DSCF0004a.jpg) (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n43/TEAM-KART/DSCF0004a.jpg)


OK, I have a question since I am going to be working on my steering these next 2 weeks since I have alot of time off.  In the pics your steering shaft doesn't look like it is a true 90* with the mower frame, won't that put the pitman arm at the same degree as your shaft and I don't know how to explain it but "bind" it up?  I figured the pitman arm needed to be parallel with the bottom of the mower frame.  Did you bore out the pitman arm to make it parallel or do the sperical rod eyes have enough degree of motion to let the pitman arm not have to be at true 90*?  I am probably over-thinking this, but this is my first build and I have looked at NUMEROUS steering set-ups on here and they still puzzle me to an extent!  I know I am digging up old posts but this post has helped me alot.  Thanks for the help!
Title: Re: RE: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD: UPDATED From time to time...
Post by: birdman_express on December 17, 2008, 01:45:12 pm
In the pics your steering shaft doesn't look like it is a true 90* with the mower frame, won't that put the pitman arm at the same degree as your shaft and I don't know how to explain it but "bind" it up?  I figured the pitman arm needed to be parallel with the bottom of the mower frame. 

Steering is one of the single most challenging aspects of building a mower.
Very few mowers come from the factory with a perfect 90 degree steering shaft angle.
And yes, it throws all geometry off.

Quote
Did you bore out the pitman arm to make it parallel or do the sperical rod eyes have enough degree of motion to let the pitman arm not have to be at true 90*? 

You are going to get some motion out of the rod ends, and the flat bar will be at an angle too.

Quote
I am probably over-thinking this, but this is my first build and I have looked at NUMEROUS steering set-ups on here and they still puzzle me to an extent!

You are to the point of fitting some metal and quit thinking. LOL
In my first build, I built mine 5 times, and still not 100% happy with it.
Tack, bend..... re-tack.... bend... almost have it, it breaks off the tack.
Weld.... grind it back off.

Quote
I know I am digging up old posts but this post has helped me alot.  Thanks for the help!

This is what these threads are for, all the information is in the site to build a mower, if people look for it.
You will need your motor and pulley installed, or atleast your pan, crank, and pulley, to be able to work around that.

Start reading here http://www.heymow.com/index.php?topic=1595.msg35329#msg35329 and you will see how he did it, and corrected it some posts lower. You steering is going to have some trial by fit.
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Tom Price on December 17, 2008, 02:00:06 pm
Sooo... I really don't need my steering shaft and pitman arm to be totally parallel with the mower frame?  If I can get away with not putting a u-joint in the steering that would be better and save me $50 wich is always good!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: George Herrin on December 17, 2008, 03:50:00 pm
Nope all my mtd builds are at factory angle and work well.
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Tom Price on December 17, 2008, 04:55:35 pm
GREAT!! Thanks George!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: nor66 on December 17, 2008, 10:45:36 pm
I have the same frame as Tom and my pitman arm is at a angle as well. I heated my pitman arm and twisted it until it was parallel with the frame.
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: ConneautMowerRider on April 01, 2009, 05:56:03 pm
hey tom, im doing a build and the chassis is the same as this one and i was wondering. Is the 4" ground clearance to the bottom of the frame rail or to the lowest point on the frame. Im mostly concerned about the rear cover and front axle u channel clearance.
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: turftracracer19 on February 17, 2010, 10:56:06 pm
this mower looks really familiar, and i noticed that in your display pic i see the number 199... was this mower in the world record episode of nitro circus? where streetbike tommy did the worlds longest lawn tractor jump and wiped out really bad.
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Redneckmowerman on March 26, 2010, 11:28:47 pm
Im pretty sure this IS street bike tommys mower ha
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Rooster on March 27, 2010, 02:29:56 pm
YUP
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: turftracracer19 on March 28, 2010, 04:30:54 pm
HA! i knew it!
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Redneckmowerman on March 28, 2010, 09:20:52 pm
Tom Fox       
Brookfield, CT
Builder of the Guinness Book of World Records
FASTEST MODIFIED LAWN MOWER
Driver:Tommy Passemante of NITRO CIRCUS <== thats his "signature" lol not that hard to figure out
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: ttruex on April 19, 2010, 01:39:22 pm
that thing looks so sweet, and i like all the updates procided nice ride Tom
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: matts mowing on October 16, 2010, 12:03:40 pm
i dont know if i skipped a reply or what but what size tires and rims are you using front/back?
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: Rooster on October 18, 2010, 04:59:39 pm
He never mentioned it that I can find, but look like 16X7.50X8.00 rear and 13X6.50X6.00 fronts. That was 4 years ago when he built this mowchine...
Title: Re: CRAFTSMAN B/P BUILD
Post by: cycloneracer on October 18, 2010, 07:15:26 pm
Yes rears were 16 7.5 6. I bought them and have sold them!   

Paul