My M1a2 [TANKS]

["Tom Putnam" <taput-at-verizon.net>]

Hey Frank and  Will,

I've  been workin  on theAbrams as much as  I can. I almost have the main part of the body and drive/ track system mocked up.

 

I made the road wheels out of wood.I hope there strong enough. Plastic  was too expensive in a rod shape. The Idler wheels are pvc plastic. I am considering coating them with epoxy before painting for strength.

I used the #60 chain for tracks and will make treads from oak to rivet to it.

 

I 'm using  wheelchair motors and a #35 chain drive,  so I can change the ratio if necessary. 

 

 I was glad to see the formula on the site for speed of tracks ....but I can't remember how fast the motors run. Seems  My old robot was slower than the tank should be though.  A wheelchair has about 12" wheels directly attached to the motor.  I will start testing geared up 2 teeth Because thats what I have on hand.

 

I will try to put up a picture.  You gotta realize , not only is this the first untried attempt, but I'm sick too and old and used to be able to do much better work. Ha.  I will welcome any comments.

 

I hope I will see you at the  shootout later in the month.

Later,

Tom P.