RE: Next project, some questions... [TANKS]

["SteveT44" <SteveT44-at-comcast.net>]

Marc wrote:

> I am thinking of mounting the road wheels on a frame and let the
> hull pivot. With the weight of the components evenly placed only
> limited force is needed to elevate the entire hull. When the frame
> pivots around a point halfway the distance between the idler wheel
> and the drive wheel (they will be mounted in the hull, not to the
> frame) the track length will not vary because of the elevation.

I was once considering the S-Tank and thinking along the same lines.  That
is until I drove Joe's Hetzer during the last battle.  I've decided I need a
turret!   ;-)

> I am worried however about the fact that the elevation servo will
> be damaged by absorbing (or rather: not) the shocks when driving,
> especially when > driving and elevating simultaneously.
> So there's food for thought!

The elevate servo (or hull tilt servo) needs to be very durable.  I was
thinking of using an automotive wiper motor and converting it to a super
duty servo with this kit from Oatley Electronics in Australia,

    http://www.oatleyelectronics.com/kits/k165b.html

Here's a construction article using this kit,

    http://www.siliconchip.com.au/cms/A_101536/article.html

I know Frank has ordered several of these kits and has not received any
after several weeks and a reorder.  Maybe Oatley ships quicker to the
Netherlands?


BTW: The declining value of the U.S. dollar against the euro has forced me
to postpone my planned extended canal cruise through Europe.  Since I first
started planning and saving for this trip the euro has gained 20 cents on
the dollar.  Puts a real dent on your buying power.  :-(


    Steve "Need to build a tank quick" Tyng