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Post by rsmith on Nov 9, 2004 14:41:39 GMT -5
Hey guys, I thought I would document a current project that we have going. My class has been famous for the past couple of years for building Christmas floats. This year we are building a huge shopping cart like they would build on that "Big" show on TLC. The dimensions are going to be 9' wide and approximately 14' long. The reason I am writing this up here is beacuse we are going to build it on the frame that I started my Willys project on. The drivetrain specs are as follows: 4.3 Chevy engine w/700r4 trans Dana 44 high pinion front axle Dana 60 rear - 4:10 gears Jason Page is going to let us borrow a set or 44" Ground Hawg tires for the parade. These pics are showing us in the head scratching stage. I will post more pictures as we continue. We plan on taking it 4 wheeling after the parade.
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Post by jeepchipjones on Nov 9, 2004 15:28:38 GMT -5
Where were you when I was in high school? Can I take your class? What you gonna do with those axles when its all over with? I take donations as well. ;D
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Post by Busted Knuckle Racing on Nov 9, 2004 16:05:03 GMT -5
Here is a little inspiration. They drive this around the track at Bristol... The Food City 500. It's pretty cool in person.
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Post by rsmith on Nov 9, 2004 16:11:32 GMT -5
Thanks, that is the inspiration that I was needing. I had heard about that cart, but could not find a pic of it. He may have a super big motor, but it is not 4 wheel drive ;D
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Post by Busted Knuckle Racing on Nov 9, 2004 16:19:36 GMT -5
True... but you should hear that thing run! Just imagine if it was 4x4 on some 44" Ground Hawgs...
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Post by jeepchipjones on Nov 10, 2004 1:27:31 GMT -5
So Rob, what are you gonna do with all that stuff after the parade is over (besides taking it offroad)? Oh, and I suggest wearing a helmet and some padding if youre gonna be sitting up high like the guy in the other pic.
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Post by rsmith on Nov 10, 2004 7:26:58 GMT -5
I still have half the mind to continue my Willys project if the motor and trans, frame and suspension all work out fine. That is how I feel today. About 3 weeks ago I would have parted with all of it. I may feel that same way after Christmas - if so I will let you know.
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Post by rsmith on Nov 17, 2004 14:58:54 GMT -5
Updated pic 11/18. We added the risers up the front and back and it gives a little more perspective as to the size of this thing. Those ladders are 6 ft. tall.
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Post by rsmith on Nov 19, 2004 9:50:33 GMT -5
Here are more pics updated Friday 11/19/04. Monster Garage ain't got nutin on us. We fabbed, built, and welded the whole basket in about 2 hours. We also got the motor turning over and firing in that time. The next project is adapting the throttle body to a carb. Has anyone out there done this? Is there an adapter available?
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Post by Busted Knuckle Racing on Nov 19, 2004 10:14:34 GMT -5
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Post by rsmith on Nov 22, 2004 14:08:50 GMT -5
Here is an updated pic for Monday 22nd. We got the motor running and it purrs like a kitten. I adapted the TBI intake to a Ford 2bbl Motorcraft carb by designing an adapter plate on the plasma cam machine. I tested the seat design by puting these 200 lb + football players in the seat to see if would hold - thankfully it did.
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Post by Busted Knuckle Racing on Nov 22, 2004 18:45:49 GMT -5
lookin good!
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Post by rsmith on Dec 1, 2004 18:01:09 GMT -5
We had our maiden voyage today (12/01/04). It is an awesome feeling sitting 12' high and looking down at the pavement below. The 4.3 chevy is running great. I am having some cooling issues as the radiator has a few holes in it. Braking is an issue as well. We only have the rear brakes setup right now, but will get the front hooked up tomorrow. If it is not any better we make have to hook a booster up. I may go on ahead and get a front driveshaft made so I can wheel it after the parade. I will try to post some pics tomorrow of our test drive.
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Post by rsmith on Dec 3, 2004 15:53:47 GMT -5
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Post by Busted Knuckle Racing on Dec 3, 2004 16:23:23 GMT -5
the Jeep grill is a nice touch... Hey, if I come, can I drive it after the parade?!
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