Newbie with questions...

[Darkwind]

I've been an avid paintballer for the past 13yrs, and lately there has been a growth in "tanks" being allowed in big games. My scenario team has decided to give this a go in 2008 with our own creation. My question to you guys is where can I pick up one of these 'famed' Borg-Warner t-20 units? I've read and read on the drivetrain and this seems like a winner.

If anyone has any suggestions on any other units that are similar to these, please post and let me know. I'm loving the 6x6 (I discovered these only a few months ago) and I'm wanting to use this drivetrain.

-Darkwind

[George]

Check Ebay. You'll probably have to buy a parts machine but once in awhile a T-20 by itself does come up for sale.

Max, Attex, Hustler are the machines to watch for. There were other makes using them too but these 3 show up most frequently.

[Mike]

George is right. One more thing to add, if you do find one for sale by itself on ebay they often want more for it then you could get a junk parts machine for.

Luckily for you out of everything on a 6x6, the T20 is usually the last thing to go so if you find a 6x6 with a half melted body, 1.5 tires, and a wasp nest in it you will probably still be able to use the T20 after a good cleaning / fluid change.

One other thing to ad, try searching Craigslist to find a junker near you and then go with cash and make an offer. Often ebay will bring much higher prices than Craigslist.

Good luck and let us see some pictures when you get it done!

[Darkwind]

Thank you for the info. I'm gonna keep my eyes open. Another question, I've seen engines of various sizes (heh,50Hp), but what is actually needed to push this unit? It's going to be used on open trails with max speed only being walking speed at games, but I'd like to have a little fun with it too.

Thanks everyone for your input.

-Darkwind

[Roger S]

Wouldn't it be easier to use a complete machine for the project rather than build it from parts? Just build an upper shell with gun slots, weapons platform?

[Darkwind]

It would be easier, but I'm looking for something a little bigger. I'd be afraid to build something top-heavy. Fabbing the frame will be fairly simple, and since I don't have to worry about amphibious quailities, the body will be framed out in tube stock. I'm working on a 3D model in my spare time, when I have a decent rendering up, I'll post it. She's gonna need room for 2x scuba tanks and paint storage.

[Darkwind]

Here's a 3D I've been working on. Figure at the base, 88"Lx36"W. This vehicle with have a crew of two, one driver, and one "gunner", boasting 2x paintball markers on mount. As soon as I get hold of a trans, I can continue to build the body. The frame is partially complete. Sponsors are welcome, both private and corporate, I have one corporate sponsor currently. It will be used extensively in the 2008 scenario paintball season in Florida.

-Darkwind

[Mike]

Looks cool Good luck with the build!

[Darkwind]

Another question. Could I have any use with a mower trans? I can get my hands on a hydrostatic unit, but can I use this? Installing brake controls for either side would stop a shaft at low speed (all I'm looking for is walking speed or slower in game). Correct?

-Darkwind

P.S. Thanks again everyone

[Mike]

It really depends on which mower. Most zero turn units would be sufficient but you would need two of them. However, you don't have to have brakes on those. You just reverse the motor to stop. You will need a parking brake though. Often times the parking brake is also integrated with the control joystick or levers so that when you pull up on the brake it also mechanically locks the levers so that you can't overpower the parking brake.

It you are talking about an older transaxle type hydraulic unit for garden tractors then that may pose a problem and be more trouble than it's worth.

[racerone3]

a mower transaxle might work if you were to put a brake on both axles and set it up so that the sticks worked the brakes as your means of steering. you would also need a foot controlled clutch to disengage the belt when you stop. this might work out, but it will be hard on the dirrerential and may burn it up.

[Darkwind]

Seems like I may want to stick with the first plan and find a 6x6 trans. The engine is here. I have the framework (almost) ready, I have enough crap for it to fill half my garage and attic. Maybe I can find a sponsor for the trans, or at least a decent used one somewhere. The rebuilt ones are easy to come by, but not cheap. This is the only bottleneck in the project i didn't plan for.

-Darkwind