MG Metalworks Van Build
- Thread starter mgmetalworks
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guidolyons
Addicted to Gear Oil
That's what is known as a "hint"
How about a nice, sturdy, rock slider style with integrated electric step, like these https://www.rockslideengineering.com/product/step-slider/ but van sized and MG Metal works awesomeness.
DudeAbides
Observer
I know I pm'd you a few weeks ago with this suggestion for 4x4 conversion parts options to consider making but found a pic now to go with it. The spacers like quigley uses to keep from having to change the output shaft on the 4 speeds look fairly simple and nobody is currently offering them for sale to DIYers!
mgmetalworks
Explorer
Oh Yeah! 3D printer for the shop!
I lost my last printer when I left the corporate machine so I picked up a bigger/better model to use on several upcoming projects. These things are hella useful for testing out ideas. Already have a new product idea printing on the machine as I type. :sombrero:.
I lost my last printer when I left the corporate machine so I picked up a bigger/better model to use on several upcoming projects. These things are hella useful for testing out ideas. Already have a new product idea printing on the machine as I type. :sombrero:.
mgmetalworks
Explorer
Thank you sir! I'm liking it so far. It is definitely well built and solid! The print quality is pretty darn good too. I had a feeling you'd be one of the first to respond to that post.
sixstringsteve
Explorer
It looks amazing. I can't wait 'till you do your pop top, I'm desperately in need of one, and I know you'll do it right.
guidolyons
Addicted to Gear Oil
:jealous: can't wait to see what you come up with next. :sombrero:
mgmetalworks
Explorer
Got the van up on the rack today for some fine tunin' (special thanks to Jeremy and his shop Matrix Integrated for letting me take up every inch of space on their alignment rack).
Guess what? The suspension geometry was exactly where I expected it to be! Only had to change the toe a tad and straighten the steering wheel. The axle came from Quadvan's original alignment with 2 deg (in the wrong direction) caster bushings. Measured out today at 3.5 deg caster. So with a factory installed 0 degree bushing, I'd have 5.5 deg (exactly what I designed for). I want to drive for a while with 3.5 deg caster and see how it works. Then at some point I'll put in a zero deg bushing and compare. It already drives much better than when it was a Quadvan (with 1.5 deg of caster).
Getting very close to having this radius arm axle installation kit dialed in and ready for sale.
Guess what? The suspension geometry was exactly where I expected it to be! Only had to change the toe a tad and straighten the steering wheel. The axle came from Quadvan's original alignment with 2 deg (in the wrong direction) caster bushings. Measured out today at 3.5 deg caster. So with a factory installed 0 degree bushing, I'd have 5.5 deg (exactly what I designed for). I want to drive for a while with 3.5 deg caster and see how it works. Then at some point I'll put in a zero deg bushing and compare. It already drives much better than when it was a Quadvan (with 1.5 deg of caster).
Getting very close to having this radius arm axle installation kit dialed in and ready for sale.
sixstringsteve
Explorer
Very cool, congrats. That seems like a fantastic solution that won't break the bank. I'm glad to see a suspension manufacturer paying attention to caster, too many people ignore that!
DudeAbides
Observer
Great news, really excited about this!
Bikersmurf
Expedition Leader
Awesome to see this coming along so well. Best of luck in your new venture.
Sorry Chris... This is moving to the top of my list... For 4wd conversion options. I'd like to keep my 8'3" rig from becoming a 9' tall one. That said, you'll have all the bugs long worked out before I'll convince myself I need 4WD on this rig.