Guy goes into a garage to grease bearings.....

[mfenmor]

So changed around the bolts so head is closest to tub, a little more space.

IMG_0580.jpg


Then was able to get the nuts on the attachment bolts. Got a slight tension on them, then heated the tub from the inside at the point they touch. Tightened bolts all the way and added more heat. Tub moved in nicely. Underside had a bulge so propped it up with a 2x6 and let it cool. Perfect imprint of the bolts in the tub now and no pressure on it to rub thru.

IMG_0581.jpg

I had tried to come up with a jig to push in on the tub while heating, then tried freehand, clamps, boards, nothing was going to work. I was about to use longer bolts just to get it started, but then was able to get the nuts on.
All worked out good.

[onlyonce]

Great attention to detail.

[mfenmor]

Great attention to detail.

Thanks Keith.
I often look at my pictures and see something, then think....I can do that better.

[dirtdobber]

This is a really neat build. The finished product will be impressive.

[john swenson]

it's a beautiful thing !! .. i have those same 4'' bearing flanges and good bearings . i have not had to change a bearing in 3 yrs , even after all the mud at busco . because they are so easy to get to , i think being able to wash them off after rides and easy greasing procedure has helped . same with my chains. i'm still excited to see the upcoming portal box chains and tensioning system your creating . good thing i don't live next door you'd have to lock me out , lol j.b.

[mfenmor]

This is a really neat build. The finished product will be impressive.

I'm just hoping it doesn't turn out to be a great big flop, or I'll have to tear it all off and do a springer.

[mfenmor]

it's a beautiful thing !! .. i have those same 4'' bearing flanges and good bearings . i have not had to change a bearing in 3 yrs , even after all the mud at busco . because they are so easy to get to , i think being able to wash them off after rides and easy greasing procedure has helped . same with my chains. i'm still excited to see the upcoming portal box chains and tensioning system your creating . good thing i don't live next door you'd have to lock me out , lol j.b.

JB, you are welcome to come take a look any time.
The only thing I don't like about the 4" bearings is they are quite heavy. I found some bearings mounted in UHMW, but they a quite expensive.
I'd like to see these mounted in aluminum.

[john swenson]

mike ...i don't think it will be a flop at all , especially with your metal working machines and creativity . if there are any problems i see no reason you can't address them. it has taken me some time and a few modifications after my highboy frame design to get it finally working great . now it's just basic maintenance and for me i love the the results , j.b.

[mfenmor]

Change to the change

So, remember when I said I had an idea? no the other time.

I decided to do the boxes a little differently, and I think it's a change for the better.

IMG_0596.jpgIMG_0597.jpg

Chopped up some metal and melted some metal.

IMG_0599.jpgIMG_0600.jpg

YES! More better.

IMG_0601.jpg

I'll melt metal over the holes I poked for the original bearing mount.
This should be very sturdy. Built in bearing extenders.
Tomorrow I'll get it all glued together.

[ARGOJIM]

Nice supports, awaiting final outcome.

[mfenmor]

Got em all hot glued up today and in my favorite color.
I'm glad I did this, but next time I'll make these of aluminum. Gettin heavy.

IMG_0602.jpgIMG_0603.jpgIMG_0604.jpgIMG_0605.jpgIMG_0606.jpg

Jeez I hate weld spatter. I had bought some new wire (Blue Demon) which I always use, but this time I got it on Ebay. Made in China! not India where it usually is. So I thought the wire was bad, then I realized my torch cup was way too loose and pulling in air from the back. Tightened it up and Voila! no more spatter.
Need new cups.

[mfenmor]

Nice supports, awaiting final outcome.

Thanks Jim, Me too.
Workin as fast as I can.
All the fab work is pretty much done now, just a few brackets.
Assembly time.

[john swenson]

beautifull work mike..so the exstensions are to get a wider stance ? better axle support ? explain for me , thanks j.b.

[john swenson]

do the exstensions bolt to the tub , or are they the tire side. must be the tub , to get your tire spacing huh ? j.b.

[mfenmor]

beautifull work mike..so the exstensions are to get a wider stance ? better axle support ? explain for me , thanks j.b.

Hey JB,
The extensions are built in bearing extensions for the axle/tire.
Just like these,

max4_tech_167.jpg

Only extra support.
Not any wider stance, though it is already 6" wider than stock with the portals.