Hi,
currently, I am working on a 1:87 scale model of the Liebherr 531 (L531) wheel loader. The full scale version weighs approx. 12 metric tons. The German manufacturer Wiking sells several polystyrene versions (different paint schemes). Here is a snapshot of the model I originally bought:
In the long run, I intend to repaint the model (yellow base color + weathering).
I built a brass frame, a steering gear box (articulated steering, gear transmission ratio=361, driven by a stepper motor), a main transmission gear box (transmission ratio=27, stepper motor),
added rear lights, and adapted my IR remote control accordingly.
Here is the current status:
.
The engine compartment cover is still in the paint shop. For now, the model has to carry its power supply (135mAh Lipoly) in the bucket. There is room for a 50mAh LiPoly underneath the main motor and I am planning to leave room for another 50mAh LiPoly in the front section when I motorize the bucket and the fork mechanism ... probably within the next 6 months or so.
Several cosmetic issues need to be addressed: (1) The current aluminum rims look awful, (2) I need to gain some experience airbrushing and weathering models before I open up my Liebherr wheel loader model paint shop, (3) I need to add a battery cover below the main engine (or hide the battery with a clever paint job as Thorsten suggested), (4) the main gear transmission ratio of 27 is sufficient for the model to negotiate a 20° slope. For more power, I could increase the main motor's PWM duty cycle (i.e. change one of the EEPROM parameters) or change the gear -- I will try the former option first.
Fred
P.S.: original thread:
http://www.tinyrc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=23333
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