Oldmopars

As a modeler that enjoys models that are different than the aftermarket like to cater to, 3D design and printing has opened up a new world for me. For years I wanted to learn to do 3D Design, but never had a reason. I bought a 3D Printer and that left me with buying others designs, or learn to make them myself. So, I taught myself. I found that I really enjoy the process and because I travel every week, it gives me something to do other than watch the tube. I do agree with the statement made above, I now look at a kit differently. I see something and think "I can do that better". Now I have 10 kits, all part done because I get drawn to the design side, and very little build time. I figure its a hobby, as long as I am having fun with it, all is good.

Very true. I did not post the picture, but the fire extinguisher has a plaque on it, and you can read the writing. It will be difficult to paint it, but it is there.

I was actually working on that one last night. It is not as easy as it looks. My first attempt resulted in a grill that just does not look right. I am going to rework it and keep at it.

I keep plugging away at this build. With the large number of parts, the size of the part, and the complexity of the parts, this is not something I ever see being offered as a trans kit. The cost would put most people off. Anyway, I printed more parts. The ladder rack and ladder need another try. The ladder is too tight in the rack and the rack is missing a section. I am also redoing the suction hose. I tried to print the hose with ends, but it is too long and thin. So, the better way seems to be to print the ends, and use Evergreen 1/2in tube for the hose. I adjusted the hose ends to fit the tube better. It now sports a CJ2A grill and headlights. I removed all of the military additions on the body, but left the shovel and axle indentation as this will be an early 1946 and they still had them. This will represent a very early Civilian CJ2A that was converted by Howe shortly after the war. As rubber was in short supply, military tires were used as they were available. Again, this is still in mock-up stage, much sanding still to be done and several of the current parts will be re-printed. Sorry for the bad lighting, pictures taken in a hotel room.

It does suck to loose such great companies, and it seem that this is a trend among caster lately. All for different reasons, but still sad to see them go. Family and personal health has to come first. While I could never replicate the incredible cabs they made, if there is a list of tanks, tool boxes and other things that people want, let me know. I have been thinking about creating some of these items and I can offer them through a 3D printer for sale.

I have been wanting to build a Stubby Bob. I even created a Casale V Drive for it. Its free on Cults3D. Its the same drive they used on RoadKill. Texas 3D Customs has the Blown Hemi, Scenes Unlimited has the wheels and tires. Its all out there to build Stubby Bob.

I love this project, I have been thinking about doing the same thing. I used to own a 1987 International S1800 School Bus, the long 38 footer. I drove it a lot and it drove just fine. Its amazing just how easy they are to drive. My Bus had the DT466. Great engine, way better than the T444E. I'm not sure there is one available in the aftermarket yet. It may have to be a project for me. I still have a 1990 Thomas 40 footer with a GMC Squarebody style nose in the yard. Its a driver also, but we just don't use it as it is just an empty shell, no seats. I have been wanting to do a model of it. Now with a 3D printer, many of those repetitive tasks will be easy. I can just print 22 seats, 44 windows, etc.

I glued the sleeper to the cab, made sure they were square, then I attached them to the frame. I may have made a shim, but it has been a while.

Thanks, I did just ask over there. But WOW, I think there is more spam on that forum than there is content. I have low expectations.

Great job! What engine did you use as a base? I'm thinking I may use the Cummins NTC that is so common as a base for the dimensions. That way it will fit is the kits offered.

OK, I like the idea of the Big AL. However, to have any prayer of it being close to accurate, I need more information. Landman posted this picture, but the writing is too small to read. Does anyone have a better image that the dimensions are easier to read?

Excellent, this gives me some things to look into. I do have a Cummins 4BT that I did a while back. I made it for a Land Rover I made for last year's Cannonball Run.

Right now I am just thinking about future projects. My hope is that things will be less hectic this year and I can get back to doing some projects. So, what engines are not currently available in either a kit or aftermarket resin? Or, are there any engines that are just so bad in kit form you would like to see a better detailed version of? A more modern 8V92? C Series Cummins? Cat 3412? Just looking for some ideas.

I also noted on the basic early grill, that depending on the engine you have, the grill openings are different. I am not sure if this is something that would be offered, or just the most open style.

One more.

This is what I have so far. As for the aluminum shroud, there is not a good way to model that in a way that would look right in scale. The best bet is to use whatever grill you want and BMF the outer shroud. Even if I could model it, once printed, even super thin, it would still be out of scale.

See your other thread. I posted some stuff there. I am also the one that did the transfer case Texas 3D offers.

Oh, I forgot about this. Its a 14x24 military style wheel and tire I drew. I still need to draw the rears to match, but this would be along the heavy duty line you are looking for.

A while back I made this axle. I think Charles has the file (Texas 3D Customs) if not, I can send it to him. It has these tires to go with it: I also have this axle I have been working on for a while. It is from a Scania Truck. I have the complete chassis, axles, engine, trans, frame etc. I have a complete truck minus the cab. Post some pictures of what you are looking for. Anything is possible. I hope to be able to expand the heavy truck offerings this next year.

So, I will be putting this in the main 3D print request thread too, but I wanted to update everyone on where I am at. This last year was tough. I've been working with the VA on some personal health issues. My Father-in-law was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and work has been full tilt. All of these things have lead to me having to back way off of the 3D design projects. There was a several month period that I did not even open Fusion 360 or turn on my printer. I have been slowly getting back to it. I am currently working on a 1:16 scale conversion for the Takon Jeep to a CJ2a Fire truck. This is personal for now, but we will see what happens in the future. I posted the grill above for the Chevy vans. I have also been working on some wheel options that will directly replace the wheels in all Italeri truck kits, 2 hole, 5 hole, spokes, etc. One of my next projects is the Ford L series grill. I am back at it, but it will be slow. Bear with me.

Something like this?

Yes, they are there, 4 total in fact.

Nice, Amazon is full of cheaper calipers that are fine for model making. I have a couple, but I like my digital one because it allows me to use in or mm and switch between the two. The are impossible to live without when drawing for 3D printing.

Thank you, but with shipping and everything else, this seems like it will cost more than I want to spend for a few little scripts. I think I will try the 3D printed route first.

Excellent, you seem to be doing the same CJ2A conversion but is 1/25. I may just 3D print some and do as you said sanding off most of the backing. My hands are not good enough anymore for that delicate work. Arthritis and taken its toll. However, I can work magic in Fusion 360. That seems my best route.