Steering and More

Now that the overall frame is done, it's time to start building onto the frame.  First up are the front steering arms.  These are the steering arms we made to accept the 20mm hubs. 

Originally, I had intended to do the steering tie rod in front of the axle; however, the head tube was in the way.  Flipping the steering arms allowed me to locate the tie rod behind the front axle which worked out better because it cleared up the space in front of the axle for foot and leg clearance for pedaling. 

 

Here's some nice welding pictures.

 We're on the fast track now!  More updates soon!  The wheels have been delays, but the electric motor is here.  I need to build a bracket for it, route the chain, add idler pulleys, mount and route the controller, build a seat frame, find a seat, convert the bottom bracket to a threaded, and build a BODY!  A lot of work to do. 

The Frame is Done

With the completion of the steering arm joints, the frame is done.  Now time to get to business. 

Update

The long anticipated 20" x 4" rims have arrived!  Having a full rolling chassis is quickly approaching.  Tomorrow I will be lacing up the 2 bitex 20mm hubs and the 2 rear wheels to new rims.  Luckily everything is 36 hole so this shouldn't be too difficult.  I think the only issue we might have is determining the correct spoke length for the 2 different hubs.  I will have more photos to add after this weekend!  For now, here's a picture of the head tube welded onto the front frame.  

Frame work

The frame is coming along nicely!  The main steel is all welded up, the rear axle has been extended, the front axle is in place, and the old drive piece is in place.  Now that I have the hubs and axles, I can wrap up the front steering system.  I have a lead on some rims...just gotta place the order and then figure out how I'm going to lace everything up! 

 

Goodies

A nice shoebox from Taiwan arrived the other day with some goodies in it: 20mm hubs and a disk brake set!

 

Modeling

The hubs and brakes are ordered, the frame building will start next week, the tires are here; WE'RE MOVING ALONG NICELY!  For now, here are some elevations to keep you interested.  A full 3D model is on it's way!  ;P

Frame Design

Now that I decided on the overall dimensions, I've been able to finalize the design of the frame. After building my scale models, I really go the picture that the first design was going to look pretty anorexic. So maybe, this will be a 2-seat truck! Guess I better start looking for an assistant.