Above 1200 Sq/FT T-Handles Workshop (The final destination??)

[zmotorsports]

The hydraulic hose shield is a nice touch.

 

[MadeByMiller]

Looking excellent! Any updates on the lathe photobombing in a few of the pictures?

 

[T-handle]

Nice work so far.....

Thanks Mark!

The hydraulic hose shield is a nice touch.

Thanks Mike! I thinks so too, Looks a bit more "technical"

Looking excellent! Any updates on the lathe photobombing in a few of the pictures?

Thanks @MadeByMiller

I painted some lathe parts last time late spring/early summer. Summer was too hot to paint anything inside the workshop. I've also been distracted by other things in the workshop.
I love restoring old machine tools but it can be pretty monotonous time to time. I have to stop and do something creative to get that part out of my system. I have pretty much all parts for the lathe modernization and I'm ready to go after I'm done with the Pokemon hunter

I've been also enjoying sending "my lathe is broken" pics for my "hey can you turn this part for me quick with no charge" friends

I've collected a lot of inspiration watching machining videos from Youtube

 

[T-handle]

- The Pokemon hunter part 6 -


I was thinking long and hard what to do with the plastics. Ton of scratches and faded red color, not one of my favorites. Majority of the original stickers were gone when pressure washed. There's also a ton of useless "warning" stickers on the fenders.

Now when the underside is looking nice it's a crime to screw on these faded plastic covers. I was thinking painting but have bad experience about painted plastic. Sticking problems etc.



While I was thinking about the plastics I run all the electrics, gables and hoses. I treated all rubber parts with conditioner and they came out nice, flexible and soft again.

I painted the handlebars and hand controls with semi-gloss black.





I was buying some supplies from the local motorcycle store and found these Domino grips from the clearance sale bin. Had to get them and figured out the color scheme for the plastics tooHunter theme needs some camouflage to be bad ***











I have to do something with the gauge panel. Looks horrible. Maybe some sanding and polishing. Front side looks okay.

So the color scheme and chosen method. Wrapping Something I have never done except something small and flat . I ordered wrapping vinyl that looked good for me. It's a desert camo color. I ordered two meters of this and three meters matt black. My plan is to do part black and part camo. It was pretty cheap, about 15€ a meter. This stuff is 1.5meters wide. I had some carbon look vinyl but it was too glossy for this.



I painted all the parts black from the backside so I can hide that red totally. I sanded lightly all scratches down and cleaned all surfaces with alcohol. I started wrapping from the easy part to get some practice about the heating and stretching.





Here is the front mask going camouflage. It's relatively difficult process to master. Too much heat and there's a hole or the color changes completely. I think it would be easier to wrap something like a hood of a car for practice. So much tight corners and deep stretches on these parts. I also think thicker wrap would be better with complicated parts. Live and learn







I utilized the 3d-printer with this project too Making some cool badges from Petg to give some details. I will paint these black/or red.



Well that's all for now. Have a great week guys!

 

[gearhead1960]

Looks good T. Have a great weekend yourself!

 

[zmotorsports]

That is turning out awesome. I'm not a camo guy but I really like the wrap idea and may have to try that at some point.

 

[MadeByMiller]

The camo wrap looks great with the red and black components, excellent work!

 

[PugetDude]

Great idea on the wrap; been thinking of doing something similar on my 32 Roadster when I get to that point.

 

[Bob Heine]

Happy Birthday Tapio!
Sorry, I know it's already over but I hope you had a good time.

 

[gearhead1960]

T,
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

 

[T-handle]

Looks good T. Have a great weekend yourself!

Thanks Mark!

That is turning out awesome. I'm not a camo guy but I really like the wrap idea and may have to try that at some point.

Thanks Mike! Yes it's a great option if you don't like to paint something

The camo wrap looks great with the red and black components, excellent work!

Thanks Mr Miller!

Great idea on the wrap; been thinking of doing something similar on my 32 Roadster when I get to that point.

Thanks @PugetDude ! Hmm.. camo wrapped 32 Roadster. That would be different!

Happy Birthday Tapio!
Sorry, I know it's already over but I hope you had a good time.

Thanks @Bob Heine ! You are the second person who remembered my birthday! I love you Bob

T,
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Thanks Mark! You too.




-Small shop update-

I had a busy December at the shop. Both of our cars needed service and yearly inspection. My sons car was possessed by demons and was acting strange. It was the original twin relay that was working every now and then. It was the last thing I checked

I serviced my John Deere as well and did something I was supposed to do last summer but forgot it totally. I've hunted a cheap snow plow for my tractor but didn't find any so I decided to "spread" out my bucket. It was originally 1.7 meters wide and the tractor is two meters wide. So the bucket wasn't too good for plowing snow. The bucket is good for the places I do cos there's not really a room for snow. I have to pile it up where ever I can, it was just too narrow and I kept on chasing my own tire marks.

I did some plans and started cutting. The plan was to get maximum wideness and minimum weight add.





I took the ends off first. I was also determined to use only what I have in storage. I was looking for a 10x100mm flat for the frame but could only find an angle iron, it was close enough for my need.

A lot of grinding and there it was with 45degree angle ready on one side.







My plan was to do a V-type bucket. It's now 2.3 meters wide from the nose.

I did the frames for both sides and covered the frames and caps with 5mm plate. End pieces fit up like they were.





It's not a banana like the pics shows, it's the lens distortion. I welded it nice and slow with cooling breaks and got it pretty straight. Althought my bucket front piece is worn from the ends.





Then it was time for paint. I did two layers with Duplicolor anti-corrosion primer.



First coat dry.





I'm happy how it turned out. I have done my snow plow areas couple times now and I love it. It's twice as faster than the old version.

One thing I don't like is the mess in my workshop now. Everything is covered with a layer of iron dust My original idea was to do this on the yard at summer without the mess..

I took my holidays easy and cleaned the shop thoroughly. It took a whole week to clean everything.





Now it's nice and clean again and I can focus on new things. All that not so important fun things
There's a painting on the left my daughter painted for me as a fathers day gift. She's becoming a fine artist.





I got an idea as I was wiping down the dust I made with the bucket. A curtain to separate the tool area from the rest of the workshop. That mite work but what material to use. Welding curtain is pretty expensive. Maybe a cotton or pvc with some kind of fire protection? The opening is about 2x3 meters. Maybe some kind of rail too to pull the curtain side when not in use.

I was making the bumpers for the Pokemon hunter earlier and both of my welding hoods was not working. I tried to change the battery inside but no luck. Also tried to "charge" them in the sun (witch is showing three hours of the day in here) but no luck.

So I bought me an early birthday/Christmas present. Esab Savage with changeable battery



My wife finally gave in about me fixing the bird feeder and made a completely new one I gave some directions but didn't touch anything with my oily hands cos I was fixing our cars After 24 years I still think she's a keeper



The shopmanager is into graffiti art now days and got a big box of spray paint from the Santa He's eleven now and had a quite different wish list this year, again. A big sheet of hardboard and a box of spray paint
So after Christmas I had to build a painting area in to our car port. I was pretty surprised about the result


We took the art piece in to the workshop to dry and "breathe" for couple days and mounted it in he's rooms wall. Pretty cool (and big) art piece!


I got some new filament from the Santa. It was on sale only 20€/1kg roll. I have already tested it and the quality is very nice.









I printed my first xyz-cube and it looks nice but there's something wrong with my Z-axis. Well now when I know it I can fix it on Cura if doing something precise. I think I just have my rollers too tight. Twin Z-axis motor/rods would be cool tho

But one vote from me to Flashforge filament


We've had a lot of cold weather here since the winter started and I was able to do some ice lanterns. I took few pictures from the yard on yesterday.











We usually use candles inside the ice lanterns but I placed them on top of our embedded terrace lights. They look pretty nice and we save some candles I also hung some lights to our new trellises. I did a system were I can roll up the lights on top of the beam for next year. To save some time and patience

Well that's a long post again. I promise to post more often this year.

I hope you all had a great holidays and may the year 2022 be good for all!

Have a great weekend

 

[MadeByMiller]

Bucket modifications look excellent, as does the shop and your home! I'll be watching to see your solution for the curtain wall, I'm sure it will be great. Wishing you the best for the new year!

 

[Bob Heine]

Thanks @Bob Heine ! You are the second person who remembered my birthday! I love you Bob

Tapio, I know how "almost Christmas" birthdays get short shrift. I really like the way you upgraded the plow. Your children have inherited their artistic talents from their parents. Or maybe it's just the encouragement to try. Happy New Year and I know you are looking forward to a few more minutes of daylight every day for the next five months.

 

[Jayman17]

Happy New Year T-Handle! I like what you did on your tractor bucket. Great nighttime photos of your house too.

Jay

 

[rattle_snake]

Did you get wrap on ATV done?
I wrapped mine about 6 years ago (digital camo) and it is holding up better than I thought. good luck.

 

[ayer]

Back when I worked in collision / body shops we had some curtains we would pull across when we were spraying primer and not using the booth. These came from the body shop suppliers and were not real expensive. That might be something to check out. Great posts, keep up the good work.

 

[loganb]

Just chiming in here to say awesome work and please keep sharing!

 

[T-handle]

Bucket modifications look excellent, as does the shop and your home! I'll be watching to see your solution for the curtain wall, I'm sure it will be great. Wishing you the best for the new year!

Thanks Mr Miller and Great New Year to you too!

Tapio, I know how "almost Christmas" birthdays get short shrift. I really like the way you upgraded the plow. Your children have inherited their artistic talents from their parents. Or maybe it's just the encouragement to try. Happy New Year and I know you are looking forward to a few more minutes of daylight every day for the next five months.

Thanks Mr Bob! Yes it's a bummer to have your birthday near to that other dude I'm over it but feeling sorry for the children who tend to get forget on Christmas hurry. My wife's sister had a baby before Christmas and I'm going to get presents for her every year. a ton

I used to draw all my childhood when the weather was bad. Other times I was outside in the woods. But yeah giving the opportunity to try is the key I guess. Getting some materials and supplies is important too
In fact I got a canvas and some feather brushes for Christmas. I'm going to try some oil painting soon

Yes the sun is higher every day, Great New Year to you too @Bob Heine

Happy New Year T-Handle! I like what you did on your tractor bucket. Great nighttime photos of your house too.

Jay

Thanks @Jayman17 Have a Great Year 2022 too!

Did you get wrap on ATV done?
I wrapped mine about 6 years ago (digital camo) and it is holding up better than I thought. good luck.

Hi @rattle_snake ! That's cool! 6 years is a long time, I hope mine lasts some time too. The wrap is quite hefty and it's pretty much up to the driver, how thick bush you are pushing thru I got it wrapped alright but had some sticking issues on the corners..

Back when I worked in collision / body shops we had some curtains we would pull across when we were spraying primer and not using the booth. These came from the body shop suppliers and were not real expensive. That might be something to check out. Great posts, keep up the good work.

Thanks @ayer Great tip! I have to check it out. I'm planning to do some movable welding curtains to separate the welding section from the machining area. Welding spatter on machine ways is not a good mix Thanks for stopping by Ayer!

Just chiming in here to say awesome work and please keep sharing!

Thanks @loganb ! I'm chiming in your thread as well, great work and a ton of inspiration! Have a great New Year 2022!





-Pokemon hunter part 7-


I got the plastics wrapped up and boy I had some difficult parts to do. Those black fender corners and area around the gas cap was a true pain in the ***.
I ordered some matt black for the rest to do some two tone wrap. Camo/black combination looks nice I think. One thing learned. Difficult shape -> thicker wrap so you got more material to work with.
I bought the cheap thin stuff to learn and noticed that it's very sensitive for heating. I also found out that the matt black "discolorate" to shiny black when overheated









I still need to do some fixing with cutting lines and so on. One thing to get good results is the prep work. You can't really hide anything under the wrap. I had some deep scratches on the plastics and should have smoothed out those with filler and primer. I only sanded them down and they sure aren't invisible

One thing I was struggling was sticking issues on tight corners. Wrap sticks when pressed down but few hours and there's a bubble. So I have few issues with the wrap to deal with later. I'm doing a "dry build" first and then going to take the plastic parts off, pull some wires and so on before the last assembly.
I sort of figured out what to do with the bubbles, I think it's not a true sticking problem. I just have stretched the wrap too tight and that's why it keeps rising off from the corners.

My solution is to inject some glue through the wrap with thin injection needle but Damn it's difficult to buy some injection needles on these times. I tried from the drugstore and animal clinic but no luck. You can buy syringes but needles is a big no no. I think I don't look like a meth head but could use some shaving and maybe a haircut.. My teeth are fine tho

I took the shopmanager to dentist before Christmas and told the nurses about my problem, showed some pictures from my project and yes, they gave me needles Friendly dentist is a good dentist, and btw zero holes for shopmanager


I fixed few cracked fastening spots from the plastics as I was working with those. Installed the radiator and hoses too.




Both of the inner fenders were broken from both corners. It's a place that catches all the rocks and branches first. I didn't bother to fix those and did a surgical operation instead. I think I'm going to place some rubber on the corners if the dirt gets everywhere.

Shop dog Nelli agrees with the plan.













I replaced the orange side deflectors with a 3M red one. I have to see what the inspector says about those.. I think the red ones looks better.


Then it was time to move on. Next task is the metal parts and bumpers. I also want to replace original turn signals with something else. Original ones are like a tentacles on crickets head I also want to go with led as much as possible.

Original bumpers are okay but I want to do something a bit meaner, so that the Pokemons/zombies don't laugh when the hunter is coming.





I started from the front bumper. Grind off those old marker light mounts and cut off those lower bumper pipes.

I did new ones from sheet metal with few speed holes. Looks meaner already. I added the middle piece and a pipe for three work lights.
I also welded some mesh on the middle part to protect the radiator.







Then I started working with the rack. I decided to add rails around it. It's easier to tie down dead Pokemos/zombies or camping supplies to it. I did some spacers from sheet and added the rail. Welds looks horrible but I was low on argon. I did the assembly welds with migwelder and then finished the welds with a tigwelder. I'm not so happy with the top rail shape and mid change it a bit from the corners.

I also ordered two more worklights, one on the middle and on will be on the back for reverse light.



I had some leftover led markers from a motorcycle project. I mounted those on the ends of the "light bar" There's a holes for the nuts and wires.

Then it was time for the rear bumper and rack. I looked some hard atv-bags for the rear rack. You know a box for shotgun, grenades and other stuff. Those atv cargo boxes are pretty expensive (starting from 120€) and small. If you want to carry some firewood on your trip you have to have room.
So I picked up a plastic tool storage box for 35€. I think the "military look" suits for the hunter too.





It's also a nice backrest for the passenger. I'm going to mount it so that it's easy and fast to remove if needed.

I started with a similar rail as the front rack. I also had some leftover 3-way led lights for the back. I bought those for John Deere but they didn't fit at all. Original light is a motorcycle type light on the middle.





After thinking hard what kind of rear bumper to do I just started doing it. Sometimes is just easier to follow the flow. I started with bars that protect the lights.





Did some sheet metal frames and mounts. I had to figure out how to mount this so that it supports the back end like the original bumper did. There's also a hefty towing point if and when I get stuck.





There it is. A mean bumper with led lights, licence plate mount with a licence plate led light.
Reverse light is going on the right side of the licence plate. Left side is for the muffler head to stick out. I still have to buy a shackles for the towing points so I can finish the welds for those.









Well that's it for now. Next thing to do is the exhaust pipe and muffler. I have to take my argon bottle to fill up too. I wish I had two of those

Have a great weekend and thanks for stopping by all

 

[Boosted1]

Wow! What a transformation of the ATV. Nice work.

 

[gearhead1960]

As always your projects are great. The Pokemon better be on the lookout.....perhaps a nice M96 in 6.55x55 will slay them? Or Rudolph's cousin(s)?

 

[T-handle]

Wow! What a transformation of the ATV. Nice work.

Thanks @Boosted1 ! It sure is from a different planet now.

As always your projects are great. The Pokemon better be on the lookout.....perhaps a nice M96 in 6.55x55 will slay them? Or Rudolph's cousin(s)?

Thanks Mark!
Never hunted those Pokemons before so I'm preparing by all things necessary. I've heard from my offspring that there can be some mean creatures
This would be a great hunting vehicle for other game too, but it's forbidden to carry a weapon on a offroad vehicle here in Finland. Only by foot.
Some case you can get a permit from the police to carry a weapon on the vehicle to the hunting area. It has to be unloaded and inside of a case.

 

[Matias]

Pokemon hunter is getting along nicely! I wrapped/stickered a waterjet, and it takes time and patience. I've also my project car still to wrap with (been waiting 10 years). As you said, it's the same with wraps and window tinting, the cheaper stuff doesn't conform to the shapes as easily, so it takes more heat, more time to get as good as result.

That graffiti is nice! That must of been different to be able to work on such a big piece, and not just colour some paper with pens.

I hope you also have an excellent year 2022!

 

[T-handle]

Pokemon hunter is getting along nicely! I wrapped/stickered a waterjet, and it takes time and patience. I've also my project car still to wrap with (been waiting 10 years). As you said, it's the same with wraps and window tinting, the cheaper stuff doesn't conform to the shapes as easily, so it takes more heat, more time to get as good as result.

Thanks Matias! Yes it sure requires a lot of patience and that good thick expensive stuff. Brings back all those bad memories tinting a concave rear window with lousy tools back in days

That graffiti is nice! That must of been different to be able to work on such a big piece, and not just colour some paper with pens.

Shopmanager says thanks! We've visited the legal graffiti wall in town but my son feels like the paint going waste as he can't scope out and show for friends the piece. Beats out A3 paper sheet



3D printing

Finally had time to do some editing. I made a new movie about my printer, It's a beginner level broach for setup and basics how to print. Check it out if you got time to kill
I also lost my Youtube monetizing program. New rules says you have to have over 1000 subscriptions and over 4000 watch hours for a year. Well I was making about 10 bucks a month so not going to be a Youtube millionaire soon

I've been tinkering around the printer to get it perform like a "workhorse" Now I'm pretty much in situation that I can stick a memory card in and start printing.

First update was the stiffer spring set to get rid of the bed leveling procedure. It had to be leveled pretty much every time I removed the glass bed for cleaning.

Here's a link what I ordered. Spring set
It also came with a high temp bowden tube.

I also ordered an all metal extruder set. All metal extruder
There's nothing wrong with the original but it was only ten bucks. I think the adjustment is a bit better and the pull roll is higher quality.









If the printer was inside the house I would upgrade the fans with Noctua silent models, I'm not sure if there's a 24volt models available but videos I've seen you need a buck converter from 24v to 12v. The printer sure is loud but my shop dog Nelli enjoys the hum.

One thing I learned when I had sticking issues with Pla. Print on the glass side, sticks like mad and when the print bed cools down after print the part comes loose by itself. I also wash the bed after few prints with dish soap and warm water to get it grease free. No need for ipa or any other solvents.

One thing I did when assembling the machine. The z-rod comes packed with grease, I cleaned it and used a thin layer of teflon spray lube. Much cleaner setup. Btw The filament goes very close to z-rod to the extruder so there could be an issue to get grease in to your filament tube.

Well that's my two cents. Have a great week everybody!

 

[nicholam77]

New rules says you have to have over 1000 subscriptions and over 4000 watch hours for a year.

Hmmm, that sounds kind of discouraging for new creators.

I've been tinkering around the printer to get it perform like a "workhorse" Now I'm pretty much in situation that I can stick a memory card in and start printing.

Sounds like the next step is to take a look at Octoprint

Jealous you and Bret have "workhorses". Hope to get mine there, soon!

I also ordered an all metal extruder set. All metal extruder
There's nothing wrong with the original but it was only ten bucks.

I've read the lever arm or body can crack on the stock plastic one. No idea the frequency but that can cause the filament to slip. For $10 it can't hurt to future proof a problem. I did mine as well and it's easier to load filament and I'm happy with it.

Interesting you print on the glass side of the bed — any reason over the "Carborundum" side? It just wasn't sticking for you? I haven't tried the glass side yet but I haven't had many problems with the other side.

Pokemon hunter is looking great, too!

 

[T-handle]

Hmmm, that sounds kind of discouraging for new creators.

Say no more Nick! Seems to me that money follows money. I bet the beginner video makers needs the money most to get the channel starting. I've been more like in and out Ytuber. I upload new videos if it's fun and I have the time.
However, I've been grateful for ten bucks a month, Been saving it to by a new lens for my camera, now I have to smash my piggy bank

Sounds like the next step is to take a look at Octoprint

Jealous you and Bret have "workhorses". Hope to get mine there, soon!

I've been lurking for tutorials about Octoprint. I've had nightmares about my workshop turning to ash when the printer is printing at night Octoprint or not that can happen but it's easier to check your phone app vs to walk in to the workshop to see what's happening.

I've been designing an enclosure so Octoprint could be a nice add for it. Maybe automatic extinguishing system too
One thing why Octoprint interests me is the time lapse function. Ads a lot of print time but damn those videos looks super satisfying.

Don't worry Nick, you'll get there when you got your printer tuned up

I've read the lever arm or body can crack on the stock plastic one. No idea the frequency but that can cause the filament to slip. For $10 it can't hurt to future proof a problem. I did mine as well and it's easier to load filament and I'm happy with it.

Interesting you print on the glass side of the bed — any reason over the "Carborundum" side? It just wasn't sticking for you? I haven't tried the glass side yet but I haven't had many problems with the other side.

Yes metal is always metal, I bet it also works as a heat sink for the extruder.

I'm not sure was it bad leveling (before new springs) dirty print bed, too much speed on first layer or what, but I had problems with the first layer sticking on one point. I watched videos about the problem and switched to the glass side. Haven't turn back since. You have to try the glass side when you get your printer humming. I think it's more accurate side to level too.
I think this can be one of those operator preference subjects too

Pokemon hunter is looking great, too!

Thanks Nick! I've been waiting warm weather to paint some parts.




-Small shop update-

My computer told me to go shopping yesterday. Internal storage full, all red and swollen. I have one 1tb storage for photos, videos and other stuff and 500gb M.2 storage for programs. This one sticks straight to the motherboard and opens the pc and programs super fast. I like it.

I bought another 1TB storage cos cheap. There's three slots for 3.5" disks in my pc housing. I'm an old school guy so I don't trust the clouds



I hope this one does it for a long time.

My kids have been printing some anime characters, I placed some parts on side to save some support filament. Not a good idea or I didn't get the supports right. A lot of layer lines on some parts. Good old filler to fix my mistakes



The wonder woman came out great and smooth, only one hole on backside, I'm not sure if there supposed to be one I bought some heavy filler spray to get the parts perfectly smooth before paint. My daughter is pretty good painting these things. I have to share the results when these are done.

One more thing I have to share. The most sexiest winter gloves I have ever seen Not sure of the durability yet but had to buy a pair for Sunday driving. 29€ here.


Well that's all for now.
Have a great week and thanks for reading my journal

 

[T-handle]

It's been mainly snowing in T'handle-land so my shop time have been pretty minimal. I've been plowing a lot of snow. We had a good snowstorm last Saturday and some places had over 1 meter snow

I managed to go through my Youtube thumbnails and made those more clickbait.. I mean interesting I hope. It can be a lot of work for a newbie like me. I use a website called Canva free version. There's a lot of stuff for making pictures and other social media stuff.

I've also started a new rehabilitation sessions for my back. There's something wrong in my nervous system too, I'm been having this joint and muscle pain for a long time. Can't really sleep properly and I'm beat up all the time. Doctors have done a lot of tests and I should be a healthy man based on tests. What can I say, it ***** big time.



I have really nothing to share from existing projects but I thought I can share some throwback stuff.

-Harley Shovelhead 77-

Back in 2006 I sold my Chevy Van and bought an old Harley shovelhead which was imported from Germany by a dealer.
It was a time when my workshop wasn't really much. Just a simple single car 400 sq feet garage. I had a cheap mig welder, grinder, some hand tools and a ton of enthusiasm.

I'm sorry about these blurry pictures but back in 06 these were great.
If you squint your eyes enough the pictures come better



I drove my new bike a lot in late summer 06. When the season ended I took the bike apart and it was time for my vision, a cafe racer style inspired bobber.



When the unnecessary parts were stored to "for sale" department it was time for a dry build. My older brother is a chopper guy and every time he visited my workshop the front wheel was moved forward

(Note the home made motorcycle lift)


I was thinking to do a hardtail from this but my back suggested double springs, ones for the seat and ones for the rear swing. So springs it was. I moved the lower mounts a bit back to get the ride height to 100mm. For the front end I ordered a lowering kit.

When the ride height was accomplished it was time for sheet metal work.



I used a lot of CAD (cardboard aided design). This is an oil tank/battery holder pattern. Some graphics design there too



The CAD designs advanced to sheet metal parts. This are the gas tank pieces from 1.25mm sheet. I had no shrinker/strecher or English wheel so round corners was made from right radius pipe cut to four pieces.



For a low profile I made a two piece tank. Tank halves are connected via hose like original "fatbob" tanks. I welded the pieces together with 2mm cap so I had some "meat" to grind off.

I also made both fenders from flat sheet and an air cleaner, that altered to a S&S style air cleaner later.





When the gas tank, oil tank/battery holder and fenders were ready I made the seat pan, fender supports, exhaust pipes, handlebars, licence plate holder with rear light and some other brackets and stuff. I bought two straight fishtail "mufflers" and mounted them as low as possible. I have always loved fishtail pipes.

There was a lot of work to bring the back cylinder pipe on to the left side. No one knew about pie cut style pipes then Or at least I didn't.

I pressure tested the tanks and it was a huge task because there was a lot of small pin holes. I welded it in small sections and cooled the metal down with air. My mig was doing a small pin hole to the start and end of the weld

So it was a lot of air to the tank->soap water spray-> drilling a hole to the leak spot-> air off from the tank-> cleaning and welding->and repeat about hundred times
I got it leak proof but treated the tanks inside with a sealer to be sure. I also learned how to do lead work because I wasn't sure about filler sticking properly or staying attached. If you have ride one of these you know it shakes the patches from your teeth straight off

BTW I drilled a ton of "speed holes" with my crappy bench drill I had back then. I think that was the time I learned to buy proper drill bits like Dormer and stuff.

There's my old 250RM 2-stroke lurking on the background.







After bodywork it was time for paint. I had to use small amounts of filler to get the surfaces smooth, sanding lead is one of my least favorite things to do. I build a small paint booth in to my garage from plastic tarp. After acid primer and spray filler I did a metallic black, pearl white and gold stripes combo.

Every time I had a problem I went to watch my Biker build of season one DVD to get some tips how to do things

When the paint layers was drying I rebuild my engine and transmission. After new piston rings, honing, valve stems and seals (and some polish and paint) the engine and transmission was ready to go. I also mounted a kick start to rise my manhood

I had both, electric start and a kick start to show of. It was fun to start the engine at the gas station so that when I kicked the pedal very gently I pressed the start button simultaneously. Other dudes was jumping on to the pedal like crazy and was wondering how my leg is so strong









The frame, handlebars and some other stuff was powder coated. My friend was working for the company that made hunting collars for dogs. They had a powder coating system and an oven that just and just was big enough for my frame. Hardtail frame would not have fit in the oven

Then it was time for fun. Assembly with shiny parts and new accessories. Best thing you can do with your pants on, or what the hell, without pants if you prefer







And there it is ready to go. Super fun thing to drive. On fast corners sparks was flying from the foot board supports
I upholstered the seat with foam and black leather cut from the back of old leather jacket. I also made an instrument panel from oak on the top of the tank. There's had to be some wood on carpenters bike









It was a great feeling to get this thing ready for early spring. I did the first test drive and it was snowing and below zero. If you just could travel back in time.

I drove this bike around for summer 2007. I participated a couple bike shows and won some trophies too. That's my brothers FXR chopper lurking at the background. It sounded awesome with straight ****** stainless steel pipes.



After the ride through summer I had a new project in sight and I sold the bike. One thing I have regretted a bit. It sure was a fun bike to ride.

Couple years ago I was at the magazine shelf browsing some car magazines as my wife was shopping. I found my bike presenting on the Finnish car magazine It had a lot of new features like hardtail frame, new pipes and some other new stuff.
Overall look had remained almost the same. I'm glad someone liked the vision I had sixteen years ago. I bought the digital version from the magazine and saved some pictures from it.









Still looks good to my eye. I'm not surprised about better brakes, It was a fast bike but didn't want to stop so good with those old banana calipers The brass instrument panel looks good too, maybe the new owner is a watchmaker.

I remember coloring those Pirelli sidewall markings with a paint marker. They lasted white about two weeks

Man this makes me wanting to build a bike again. I'm glad I have one FLH waiting for resurrection in my storage

Well that's all for now. Thanks for tuning in to my (previous) workshop!

 

[Jayman17]

I like what you did to that bike. Hope your back and joint pain eases for you. Even with your back problems you have a great attitude and a sense of humor I admire.

Jay

 

[nicholam77]

That was a fun read Tapio, thanks for sharing! Is owning a Harley in Finland pretty unique, or does it have a following over there? I associate Harley as a very American thing, so just curious. I always find in interesting seeing American design in Europe, I remember one time in France I saw a trio of red, white, and blue '60's era fastback Mustangs, must have been some sort of owner's group. Was very surprised to see that. But I suppose it's like us over here coveting German or Japanese cars etc. Whatever is more exotic and uncommon.

I used a lot of CAD (cardboard aided design).

Lol! I like that. Now that's a CAD I can understand.

We had a good snowstorm last Saturday and some places had over 1 meter snow

Wow! Maybe you need to 3D print a pair of these for your Crocs

I've also started a new rehabilitation sessions for my back. There's something wrong in my nervous system too, I'm been having this joint and muscle pain for a long time. Can't really sleep properly and I'm beat up all the time.

Sorry to hear that. I have had a (very minor by comparison) back strain for 7 months now. Just can't get it to heal, picking up the kids all the time. It's super annoying so I can't imagine what it would be like to have bigger problems. It's amazing how much we use our backs for. My dad has also had back and neck pain for most of his life after getting hit by a bus as a pedestrian in his 20's. I know it can be really difficult and often an "invisible" pain to others. Hope you get some relief.

That bike build was pretty sweet, you have a lot of skills!

 

[T-handle]

I like what you did to that bike. Hope your back and joint pain eases for you. Even with your back problems you have a great attitude and a sense of humor I admire.

Jay

Thanks a lot Jay! I think humor is the best medicine you can have. Whining and over analyzing about things just makes me feeling worst.

That was a fun read Tapio, thanks for sharing! Is owning a Harley in Finland pretty unique, or does it have a following over there? I associate Harley as a very American thing, so just curious. I always find in interesting seeing American design in Europe, I remember one time in France I saw a trio of red, white, and blue '60's era fastback Mustangs, must have been some sort of owner's group. Was very surprised to see that. But I suppose it's like us over here coveting German or Japanese cars etc. Whatever is more exotic and uncommon.

American cars and bikes are very popular here, I took a quick search and there's about 2000 american cars and about 1000 Harley's for sale at the moment. And that's just one site.
I'm not sure why we buy motorcycles because our driving season is about four months tops

There's a lot of bike and car builders in Finland. It's pretty popular hobby and our building season is long.

Wow! Maybe you need to 3D print a pair of these for your Crocs

Man! I need to print those for all my shoes

Sorry to hear that. I have had a (very minor by comparison) back strain for 7 months now. Just can't get it to heal, picking up the kids all the time. It's super annoying so I can't imagine what it would be like to have bigger problems. It's amazing how much we use our backs for. My dad has also had back and neck pain for most of his life after getting hit by a bus as a pedestrian in his 20's. I know it can be really difficult and often an "invisible" pain to others. Hope you get some relief.

Thanks Nick! My back has been a lot better now when I'm not doing construction work. My doctor thinks I have overloaded my nervous system too many times with hard work and I have some kind of nervous system disease like CFS.

Sorry to hear about your back problems. It takes a lot of time and daily light exercise like walking and stretching. When you get better and your back can take some load it's time for some core exercise like making firewood I hope you get better!

That bike build was pretty sweet, you have a lot of skills!

Thanks Nick!

 

[Matias]

Good upgrades on the printer, made those same ones!

That bike was really nice! Even if I'm not a die hard Harley fan, that's one I would clearly like to have in my own garage keeping company to the others Not a lot was there to be changed by the new owner...

Back pain sure is draining, especially if you can't sleep. It's something you have to have to know how it screws many aspects in life when you have it. Office work/chair, car travel, which positions are possible when being on the sofa or trying to sleep etc. I have a friend now, that since having back pain himself, told me later on "Now I know". Indeed. I hope the rehabilitation helps somewhat Tapio!

 

[T-handle]

Good upgrades on the printer, made those same ones!

That bike was really nice! Even if I'm not a die hard Harley fan, that's one I would clearly like to have in my own garage keeping company to the others Not a lot was there to be changed by the new owner...

Back pain sure is draining, especially if you can't sleep. It's something you have to have to know how it screws many aspects in life when you have it. Office work/chair, car travel, which positions are possible when being on the sofa or trying to sleep etc. I have a friend now, that since having back pain himself, told me later on "Now I know". Indeed. I hope the rehabilitation helps somewhat Tapio!

Thanks Matias!

I'm not a big Harley fan either, I just love the v-twin engines. I've had a lot of bikes from different countries. My dream is to make a bad *** bobber based on a 1290 Super Duke R 1301 cc 75° V-twin engine. That would be cool and totally different.



-Small shop update-

I got my set of superhero statues finally finished. I've been lurking some villain statues to do next. There have to be bad guys too for superheroes
For now I have found some nice Joker busts but nothing more really interesting.

It was cold outside so I had to make a small painting booth so I could paint inside the workshop. Here's my cheap solution and it works great.



I printed the Dredd, one of my favorites, but couldn't get the proportions right, it looked too bulky next to others. I'm going to make a separate statue about Mr Dredd and maybe test some gold leaf technique on that. Never done that before.

I find a nice model for Captain America so I decided to do that. I had a blue statue already so I did the Captain America metallic blue.







It came out nice. I like the details although the statue has eleven coats of paint.

I bought a new phone few weeks back. Samsung A52S and it takes amazing pictures. It has a huge display and a macro feature too. I love it. I had an old Samsung galaxy seven, it was working fine but was pretty bead up. I gave it for the shopmanager. He really takes the last out of it fast

I had to take some glory shots from my older statues I made.





























These came out pretty cool. I like the Kitsch style and the contrast between the wood and shiny plastic.

I also made a small movie about making these.

I got some new tools for the workshop.

My old Ryobi rotary tool started acting funny. The rpm selector went nuts. I tried to fix it but I think the potentiometer is fried.

I got me a new Dremel 4000. I juggled between the cordless 8220 modell and corded 4000 model. Ended up picking the corded one, it was cheaper and I trust the power of corded one. If the 8220 has had two batteries I would pick that one.



The 4000 came with the flex shaft and a small accessories packet. Haven't test it yet, I have to make something that I can grind stuff

Got me a fresh set of tig welding cloves too.

My daughter keeps on stealing my hot glue gun so I bought one for me too I bought the Rapid BGX7 for small tasks. It's a cordless model. I have a bigger one for 12mm glue sticks.



I had a pack of 7mm glue sticks someone gave me. Now I can use those with my new gun. This thing has a usb-charger so it's easy to charge where ever you are.

And for pure impulse purchase I got me a set of Wera Kraftform micro screwdrivers. I love these things and it came with a sticker too



Well that's all for now. Have a great week everyone and thanks for stopping by!

 

[RickP]

These came out pretty cool. I like the Kitsch style and the contrast between the wood and shiny plastic.

Nice looking statues! I also like the contrast with the wood bases.

 

[Trapps]

... I've had a lot of bikes from different countries. My dream is to make a bad *** bobber based on a 1290 Super Duke R 1301 cc 75° V-twin engine. That would be cool and totally different.

A drooling emoji seems appropriate here...for me at least. Please follow your dream and share it with us!!!

 

[WoodsTruck]

I bought a Sears brand dremel in 1999 with some wedding money. Can't kill it. I did buy a set of these cheap burrs that cut anything I have thrown at them. You might find some better quality ones but for the money I have used them on stainless steel, cast iron, plastic, wood, rubber, my fingers, mild steel and they work great.

Amazon.com

 

[ed_v]

any updates? I love this thread. Great stuff T-handle!

Ed

 

[Boosted1]

I am impressed with your work on the Harley. I like it.

 

[WoodsTruck]

Dang it. I missed the obituary.

 

[bdbecker]

Dang it. I missed the obituary.

Creeping on his profile, looks like he checked in to GJ about a month ago. I also saw an Instagram post sometime in June. I'm guessing @T-handle is going to bomb us with a bunch of epic updates one of these days.

 

[loganb]

Creeping on his profile, looks like he checked in to GJ about a month ago. I also saw an Instagram post sometime in June. I'm guessing @T-handle is going to bomb us with a bunch of epic updates one of these days.

Glad I'm not the only one who did this....

 

[bdbecker]

Glad I'm not the only one who did this....

I worry about my internet friends.