353 replies to this topic

[cruzn]

When you get it, you get to help finish it. Does that help?

OK>... got my Mind in gear...

[Chuck D.]

I'm the final keeper of Snowy now John... it's been a long time coming and I'm now doing a lot of scratch building for the interior...


Chuck D.





quote name='RatRod' date='Aug 31 2009, 07:24 AM' post='205864']
Project Snowball is still alive, and last I heard Dave Mikrut had it to finish. I have heard so many horror stories about this project, that I wouldn't even want to attempt it. These projects start out great, and everybody has good intentions, but something, or someone eventually happens. The one idea of having just 4 people partake sounds like a winner, but I hope you all pick a kit that works, and goes together very well. Good luck!!!! Here are a couple pics of Snowball as it sits today.






These pics came from Dave's album.
[/quote]

[cruzn]

it looks like I better get busy and finish the original Snowball project which sparked all the interest!!
Chuck Darnell / MCL Moderator

Yep.. we Might finish this in time for snowy's 11 anniversary...:-)

[Dave Mikrut]

From the Snowball Webpage http://canney.net/projectsnowball/

A new concept for the new millennium!
Not one group of builders, building their version of a particular model kit. But ONE KIT, traveling between a group of modelers, with each builder applying his (and her) own touch of individuality to it. ~ Seasoned, pro, and novice builders all getting together to make history!

As you can see the original prime objective of the Model Car List online Yahoo Groups car club was to have multiple model builders work on the same model, pass it to the next person on the list when done and so on. It was the individual choice of each modeler, no matter what skill level, to decide what they wanted to do to the model. Originally it was intended that no one would suggest or complain about how the work was being done. We also had hoped that each person would only have the model for a short period of time.
The original owner, had understandably gotten frustrated with the emotions that later occured as there was alot of frustrations involved with keeping this project alive. So much so that it was going to be abandoned and then I volunteered to hopefully keep the project alive. in addition to the one time I did the custom front end treatment, where in I had the model for approx. 3 weeks, I also had the model returned to me broken and had to deviate from the prime directive and repair it to the best of my abilities. I had the model a couple of weeks the second time as well and passed it on. See these 2 links:

http://canney.net/pr...ge08/index.html

http://canney.net/pr...e08a/index.html

When the project started, an unknown factor was that there are circumstances in peoples lives that are very important and our model building hobby has to take a back seat to life's realities. The project slowed down once again and this cause alot of frustrations for the members of the club and a lot of hurtfull things were said and once again the project nearly died. When I recieved Snowball back many of the club members had voted that I keep it and complete it, so that it finally would get done. For all the time that I was the owner of it I had to be a referee and try to keep the club together on this because it was really causing alot of divisions, positive and negative. It had taken it's toll on me and I regretfully posted the following letter to the club.

I've been thinking long and hard about making this decision and I believe the time has come to pass along our beloved Modelcarlist club group build to someone I feel has the desire and resources to continue it's legacy. Since it was given to me by our good friend Paul Canney who has donated to this day his time to continue a website for Snowball, I have had the pleasure of seeing it grow to it's present condition and tried to keep the enthusiasm alive. I've been a builder and a promoter and a referee and felt a lot of ups and downs myself about the fate of this wonderous project. For those of you that have had the joy to work on it, you know the feeling I'm talking about. Our original intention was for many builders to work on it and who knows how it would turn out. Many people have put some of their best work into this model and it will truly be a masterpiece when done, just for the fact that it got done under these circumstances. I had the joy of
showing it at the 2008 Toledo NNL and my display did give it credit to being a Modelcarlist group project with all the names of the builders. The magazines photographed it and if it does show up in their coverage, it will have my name on it. They told me "Well it's gotta have SOMEBODY's name, so that's why it will show mine. I don't want anyone to think I was taking sole credit for it. I have possessed this model three times over the last 9 years. I do feel tho that in spirit it is owned by all of us club members and this is why I have decided to pass it on. I'm lacking the feelings and inpiration to finish it. It's as if it is telling me, it's time to move on. My health, mental and physical is keeping me from giving it my best efforts and I wish for it to be in the hands now of someone who I know will carry the torch and get it done. It will be his right to decide to finish the entire model hiself as all you had voted at one time for me to do, or to farm out a few more trips that will hopefully be a few weeks or months turn around. I'm sad, because I will miss it. It sorta reminds me of the Ring in the Lord of the rings. It is precious and beautiful to hold in your hands. I'm hoping to see it again someday and I know the new owner will understand what I'm saying when he get's it. He's is Chuck Darnell.

So what can we learn from this? Was our prime directive a failure? Yes and no. The original idea to just give a free reign to each individual builder, either newbie or experience builder got lost along the way. We were able to produce a nice looking model, still unfinshed but there is still hope. I also recieved alot of negative emails from people who were unhappy with it and had very negative comments. Mostly by people who were uninvolved so that's just their opinion and they are entitled to it. The club also tried a group build of the AMT 36 Ford. That project also died for all the same reasons. I'm still in possesion of that model too, I someday hope to finish it.
So GOOD LUCK to the new Model Cars Magazine project. The only suggestion that I would like to make is that the people that will be working on the model, and I compare this to the TV show "OverHaulin" is that a plan or concept of the finished project be decided on before the work is started. Good idea? Yay Nay? and yes....I'd love to participate in this new project!!!

[Ictpacman]

Have We decided Who's doing what and when, yet?

Hi everybody. I am new to the MCM forum, but not new to Snowball. I participated in the MCL Snowball project (I made the windows, since I thought that was all I could contribute at the time) and I would be interested in participating in the MCM version of this build off. I will try my hand at something other than just making the windows, this time. Not sure what I can contribute, but I will give it my best.

Modeling is Meditation

Phil

[Abell82]

From the Snowball Webpage http://canney.net/projectsnowball/

....
So GOOD LUCK to the new Model Cars Magazine project. The only suggestion that I would like to make is that the people that will be working on the model, and I compare this to the TV show "OverHaulin" is that a plan or concept of the finished project be decided on before the work is started. Good idea? Yay Nay? and yes....I'd love to participate in this new project!!!

Dave, you bring up good points, but I have addressed some of these issues already.

First, there is a time limit on this build. It is 1 month, per builder. Second, shipping is to be done by USPS WITH Delivery confirmation, (UPS is acceptable as well as long as some kind of tracking is used.). If the build is hand delivered, participants MUST, BOTH get a receipt. This is to prevent the build from getting lost. Third, there are currently 9 builder's. I was hoping for 12. This means that there are 3 slots that are actually still open. I would be honored, if you would joinus. And Ictpacman I would be honored for you to join as well. 12 will be the limit, though as I do not want the build to drag on for more then a year. (It will, once shipping etc is calculated in, I am aware of this.)

Now. You bring up a good point. I would like at least a general idea, of the overall build direction, before we start. I have PMed Gregg, to no avail. I would like for us to choose some style of build before we begin, and this is why I have not yet started. I would like for us to all be on the same page before we begin.

Edited by Abell82, 24 November 2009 - 05:20 PM.

[Ictpacman]

I like the custom wagon idea, that was shown in a pic, a few posts back.

Modeling is Meditation

Phil

[Lordmodelbuilder]

If you are still looking for people to participate on this build, I would like to be included. Thanks,Brad

[Lordmodelbuilder]

Bumping to the top.

[Lordmodelbuilder]

Is anyone working on this project? I have posted here & sent a message but haven't heard anything. Just trying to keep up to date. Thanks,Brad

[arick]

I've just read through this thread and its a fascinating concept.

If you guys ever decide to a similar project in large scale, let us know at TDR Innovations. We'd donate some cool parts to the project.

[Abell82]

<!--quoteo(post=239255:date=Dec 10 2009, 12:31 PM:name=99GT)--><div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(99GT @ Dec 10 2009, 12:31 PM) <a href="index.php?act=findpost&pid=239255"><{POST_SNAPBACK}></a></div><div class='quotemain'><!--quotec-->I say we go ahead and start the project.<!--QuoteEnd--></div><!--QuoteEEnd-->


I agree. It is time to begin.
However...

There have been several new people that have stated their interest in participating, in this project.

I believe that this is good for the build, and the message board, as well. Which is what it was intended for. So I am going to add them to the list of builders. These are the new participants:

Dave Mikrut
Ictpacman
Lordmodelbuilder.

Now then...

Officially sign up was over awhile ago. However, I have stated that I would allow 12 builders. So I am going to allow these members a chance to participate. I do have to draw a line somewhere, though. So, these will be the last names that will be added to this project's list of builder's. I don't want this project to last, as long as the original, has. And as such I don't think we need more then 12 builder's, as it will draw things out far too long. <b>HOWEVER...</b>

If someone is interested in participating, then I do not wish to turn them away, as I do not wish to exclude anyone. Also, I have been warned, and seen first hand that people that have stated an interest will withdraw for whatever reasons.

<b>So...
</b>
Therefore anyone that wishes to join, after today will <b>ONLY</b> be allowed to join, as an <b>alternate</b>. This means that if someone withdraws, then they will be given the chance to fill the spot of that person. These spots will be filled on a first come, first filled basis. So there will be a chance for new members to participate. ( IF enough people state an interest in being an alternate, then we could discuss the possibility of an "alternate's" project ... )

I believe that this is the only way to be fair.


So here is the new builder's order:

So here is the list I now have:
(Revision 1)

1. Abell82
2. Envious8420
3. Cruzn
4. Len Geisler
5. 99Gt
6. TxRat
7. Pony Express
8. Dave Mikrut
9. Ictpacman
10. Lordmodelbuilder.
11. Roadhawg
12. *Matt LeBlanc*

Alternates:
1.Jason Vandergriff
2.Showrodfreak

Comments?

Edited by Abell82, 18 October 2011 - 04:16 PM.

[cruzn]

I agree. It is time to begin.
However...

There have been several new people that have stated their interest in participating, in this project.

I believe that this is good for the build, and the message board, as well. Which is what it was intended for. So I am going to add them to the list of builders. These are the new participants:

Dave Mikrut
Ictpacman
Lordmodelbuilder.

Now then...

Officially sign up was over awhile ago. However, I have stated that I would allow 12 builders. So I am going to allow these members a chance to participate. I do have to draw a line somewhere, though. So, these will be the last names that will be added to this project's list of builder's. I don't want this project to last, as long as the original, has. And as such I don't think we need more then 12 builder's, as it will draw things out far too long. HOWEVER...

If someone is interested in participating, then I do not wish to turn them away, as I do not wish to exclude anyone. Also, I have been warned, and seen first hand that people that have stated an interest will withdraw for whatever reasons.

So...

Therefore anyone that wishes to join, after today will ONLY be allowed to join, as an alternate. This means that if someone withdraws, then they will be given the chance to fill the spot of that person. These spots will be filled on a first come, first filled basis. So there will be a chance for new members to participate. ( IF enough people state an interest in being an alternate, then we could discuss the possibility of an "alternate's" project ... )

I believe that this is the only way to be fair.
So here is the new builder's order:

1. Abell82
2. Envious8420
3. Cruzn
4. Len Geisler
5. 99Gt
6. Dave Mikrut
7. Roadhawg
8. Ictpacman
9. Pony Express
10. Lordmodelbuilder.
11. TxRat
12. *Matt LeBlanc*

Comments?

Ok I am In... Might want to have starting date after the first of the year ..But that depends on the individual.. and shipping.

[Jon Cole]

Dave, you bring up good points, but I have addressed some of these issues already.

First, there is a time limit on this build. It is 1 month, per builder. Second, shipping is to be done by USPS WITH Delivery confirmation, (UPS is acceptable as well as long as some kind of tracking is used.). If the build is hand delivered, participants MUST, BOTH get a receipt. This is to prevent the build from getting lost. Third, there are currently 9 builder's. I was hoping for 12. This means that there are 3 slots that are actually still open. I would be honored, if you would joinus. And Ictpacman I would be honored for you to join as well. 12 will be the limit, though as I do not want the build to drag on for more then a year. (It will, once shipping etc is calculated in, I am aware of this.)

Now. You bring up a good point. I would like at least a general idea, of the overall build direction, before we start. I have PMed Gregg, to no avail. I would like for us to choose some style of build before we begin, and this is why I have not yet started. I would like for us to all be on the same page before we begin.

Jason,

I cannot participate, but I think Snowball is a great idea. I might suggest you add more detail as to what is expected of each participant. For instance, you asked for a one month time limit.

I would add to that, and suggest each participant agrees to forward to the next person at the end of their term with the kit, regardless of completion. This would serve to 'add pressure' to each one to "git 'er dun" so to speak.

What about offering an extension to a participant? If they really need it, maybe an extension would be good if someone needs more time.

Also, ask that each participant post photos to show progress, and help motivate all involved. Not a rule, of course.

There is already a web site to track progress... you are all reading it now. As the topic gets pushed down the board, just bump it.

And a question... do you recommend that each participant wait for the package to arrive, vs. just grabbing the same kit on their shelf, thus getting a head start?

So, one month, 12 people, = one year. Is that agreed by all? I hope this project is a success!

[Abell82]

Quick update... I have given up on getting Gregg's input, and began working, on my part of this build. I will be sending this project on to the next player very shortly. Unfortunately, it's late and photobucket is down. Or I'd show a pic.

[Greg Cullinan]

I am glad to hear the ball is rolling.My son just asked me about it the other day.I ook forward to seeing your progress.Thanks

[Lordmodelbuilder]

Quick update... I have given up on getting Gregg's input, and began working, on my part of this build. I will be sending this project on to the next player very shortly. Unfortunately, it's late and photobucket is down. Or I'd show a pic.

Good to hear the model is making progress. You can email me the pics & I will host them on my Fotki site if you like. Brad

[Abell82]

Maybe you should try to contact Jim Haught. He may be interested in the project. Glad the ball is finally rolling on this.

I 'm quite certain that Gregg has his reasons. Like the updates to the forum for one.

Edited by Abell82, 17 January 2010 - 09:50 PM.

[cruzn]

I 'm quite certain that Gregg has his reasons. Like the updates to the forum for one.

Good to hear that the build is going on..Looking forward to it.

[Abell82]

I was not sure, on how or where to start this project. However, with the help from a magazine that I found :Street Rodder Presents: A guide to building a 49-54 Chevrolet Street Rod (I'll be sending this along with the build, in case someone needs it.) I came to a decision.
The Original Snowball began with a custom hood, and I thought I would too. But then I realized that the majority of players would be doing body work. So I thought I'd leave the body work for someone else and begin where the least amount of interest, and greatest amount of repair was needed. The frame. I decided, to try to make an Art Morrison Frame for our project.

Here is what I started with...

The rear of the frame near the fuel tank has a break in it, and is much thinner then the rest of the frame.

I began by removing the fuel tank, and sanding the leafspring mounts and old glue off.


I then tried to reinforce the broken section, and remove part of the frame.


I then added material to the frame to make it more of a uniform thickness...


Added a cross brace...


Removed the trans mount, and bracing...


Added some new material and removed some more old material...


Added the drive shaft support...


Added the holes for the exhaust to go through the frame, and the mounts to mount the frame to the body...


Comparison photo, for fun ...



I did have to modify the interior portion slightly to get this frame to work, but I forgot to take pictures of that.

I have set up all the pictures for this in a public photobucket album. So you can see and follow it's progression, if these do not work. http://s7.photobucke...82/MCMSnowball/

Unfortunately, it's too early to do much more then this, as I do not know what engine, trans, suspension, ect to set it up for.

I'll be wrapping up the rest of it, and sending it on to the next member this week.