Project "Autonomous" F-350

[rayra]

True, but with the tilt things aren't as accessible / presented like some secret agent's arms locker.

 

[b dkw1]

I think tilting will cause clearance issues by the time you get it far enough open to be useful. Hinge ones side and it would not have to swing far to get the bike in.

 

[pappawheely]

First thing is to get it mounted to the roof. I am going to a friend's shop next week so he can roll a tube to follow the curve on the leading edge of the deflector. That will be where I attach it to the roof of the truck. It would be easy to have that piece hinge forward; it will stick out from the front of the cab. I would like to have a sealed compartment up there too for food or clothing storage. Maybe with access from the cab, through the roof.

 

[rayra]

Here, let me complicate things further - how about having the passenger end swing open like a door, hinged on the box side. Simple matter to form some flat strapping to fit at the seam, parallel straps, epoxy and glassed in, cutting the shell between them. Then there's no heavier framework, lifts actuators etc. Do a lightweight aluminum L-channel perimeter framing for mounting and rigidity. Then you've got easier side-access to the full space. Make it accessible from the bunk area too, sliding panel.

 

[pappawheely]

I had Western Fabricators make a skid plate to support my poly fuel tank that is mounted between the frame rails. It looks so pretty, it's a shame it will be underneath the truck.

 

[Healeyjet]

Looks pretty stout as well!
Ward

 

[Petrolburner]

How thick is that skid plate? Aluminum?

 

[pappawheely]

Looks pretty stout as well!
Ward

How thick is that skid plate? Aluminum?

I guess a better description would have been belly pan. Poly tanks expand and move when filled with fuel; they need to be fully supported. This pan is only 1/8" aluminum. It will have additional supports that will carry the weight.

Just got back from a race in Parker, Az.

 

[pappawheely]

Another of the sunset and a shot of Robby Gordon's son Max who is only 8 years old.

 

[Healeyjet]

Simply awesome!!
Ward

 

[pappawheely]

Simply awesome!!
Ward

Thanks, I'm reading your trip reports, awesome adventures. I love Art Deco, Modern, Prairie, Craftsman, architecture styles.


I went to LaFortune race cars today and had them roll a length of 1" .120 wall tubing to match the curvature of my roof deflector. The beginnings of the mounting system. I had never used a roller before. Simple but definitely some skill involved. Learning from the masters.

 

[rayra]

Heh. Same tastes in architecture too.



Tilt forward on a pivot tube, part of the bottom mounting frame, on pneumatic lifters. Bike on a sliding tray. But not that simple, has to be rigid enough for off-road travel.

 

[Jsweezy]

I saw this box truck and thought of your build. I know its not anywhere close to what your accomplishing, but with the v8, 5 speed and full float rear axle with traction-lok all you would need to do is throw a Ujoint/MG kit on it.

http://www.commercialtrucktrader.com/listing/2009-Ford-E350--120553711

I love what your doing, definitely gonna be cool when it all comes together.

 

[pappawheely]

Your drawing reminds me of this.

I saw this box truck and thought of your build. I know its not anywhere close to what your accomplishing, but with the v8, 5 speed and full float rear axle with traction-lok all you would need to do is throw a Ujoint/MG kit on it.

http://www.commercialtrucktrader.com/listing/2009-Ford-E350--120553711

I love what your doing, definitely gonna be cool when it all comes together.

Driving down the road now, lots of these delivery trucks catch my eye. Good candidates are everywhere.

 

[pappawheely]

Spent a few hours in the shop today working on the tank mount.