New Optima-based Build

[ROH73]

I'm finally getting some time to work on a project that I've wanted to do since about 1989. I actually got started on it in 2011, but life got in the way. Six years later, I'm back at it. The delay is probably a good thing, as the project is more feasible now, with the ability to easily 3D print. The CAD work is about 50% done, so below is an early image.

I will call it the Turbo Pro Optiant

I hope to be cutting material and printing within the next few weeks to a month. So, probably in the Fall. In any case, I think it's a good start and should be fun.

[klavy69]

I think its a 'board thing' here that projects must last longer than needed around here

Looks interesting but I'm thinkin I've gotta see some more to figure out your project.

Good to see you getting back around the board and checkin in once in awhile

Todd

[lin6499]

Good, I can't wait to see the final build.

[Mr. ED]

That's right up my alley. I'll be watching this.
It's got a bit of pb ace flavour, maybe a hint of hirobo too...
Which parts are you getting printed: Transmission cases?

[ROH73]

I think its a 'board thing' here that projects must last longer than needed around here

Looks interesting but I'm thinkin I've gotta see some more to figure out your project.

Good to see you getting back around the board and checkin in once in awhile

Todd

Thanks, Todd. Like everyone else, I'm not trying to make my projects extend forever...but somehow they still do

For a better idea, I'm trying to make this:

Into this:

[ROH73]

Which parts are you getting printed: Transmission cases?

I'll be printing (at a minimum): rear transmission case, rear shock tower mount, lower chain guide, mid upper chassis brace brace, steering servo mount and a front shock tower mount.

[klavy69]

Nice...will be watching...just remember I'm 48 years old...I don't have that kind of time anymore

\Todd

[ROH73]

I'm almost 44...I don't have the time anymore either . I'm gonna have to light a fire under this one and get it done this year!

[klavy69]

I'm gonna have to light a fire under this one and get it done this year!

woah, woah, woah...can't be going too fast either

Todd

[Mr. ED]

woah, woah, woah...can't be going too fast either

Todd

You shouldn't have said that! Now it's jinxed to take forever

[Coelacanth]

Sounds about normal, for my projects too.

[tiger1]

Love this idea a lot!!!!!!!!

[ROH73]

It's been a while, but I'm still working on this...

I'm getting much closer to the build, however. I'm ready to fire up the 3D printer!

I decided to make the front end look more Pro Radiant-like, with a new shock tower mount and slightly altered shock mounting geometry (shock bottom will attach to the A-arm instead of the hub carrier). The stock Turbo Optima tower and geometry could still work just fine, though.

No Optima parts need to be modified, other than lengthening the front-back chain and making a short drive chain.

I still need to design battery mounts.

So far...
New carbon fiber, fiberglass or aluminum parts are: left and right side chassis plates, bottom chassis plate, front Pro Radiant style shock tower
New printed parts: rear differential housing, rear shock tower mount, rear guard, front shock tower mount, lower chain guides, tension sprocket, front guide sprocket, steering servo mounts
New machined parts: B4 top shaft adapter, sprocket spacers

Pics:
(Crazy colors are to make it easier to see the various parts)
(A-arms look odd, but are/will be stock Turbo Optima; I just didn't want to take the time to fully model them)

[coxbros1]

Baddassary!

[ROH73]

Thanks!