Pit Cart Project

[randy1123]

Some may remember me as the newbie tig welder. So I practiced and practiced and figured what better way to test my skills is to build something.
After our tool boxes were falling apart at the last race, I wanted to modify the existing chests, or buy a real Pit Cart.
The new cost of the Pit Cart was too much, and I needed two of them. So the idea started, CAD time spent and pricing to build worked out.
I have built many things out of MDF wood and laminated them, but never anything more than a bracket out of metal. I decided to make this out of aluminum to make it lightweight, and attempt to build two of them. Jump into the deep end!
After warping the first frame, I decided to try a different approach.
Thanks to Nathan at CadTech and Greg at Competitive Metals, I think the build is going well.
I used screws to hold it together until welding is complete. If any metal is not fully secure, the warping starts. I will drill more holes in the face, weld and smooth out the faces before painting.
Problem, I have gotten to this point and only feel comfortable welding certain parts and worried about warping what I have built.
Should I call in for help and pay a pro to finish the details so I don't ruin my creation?
Very worried about the amount of heat needed.
Comment, criticize, suggestions welcome.

[SPONSOR]

Membership in the largest desert racing community has its advantages - Participate in Forum Discussions - Send and Receive Private Messages - Maintain Public Photo Albums - Access to Groups - User Profile in our Social Network - Increased Access to more Sub Forums - Reduced Online Advertisements Join our community today

[empire_637]

nice nice. Looks very nice keep the pictures coming.

[Mike_Cohen]

Randy,

Awesome project and great job! I think you should finish it, you took on the beast and almost have it in the boat, now its time to gaff it and put it away! Give your instructor Tommy B a call or Mike at Alumi Craft. They could give you competent suggestions and steer you in the right direction.

By the way, we'll take one too!

Great job!

Mike

[mikeyfrombc]

love the beadlocks LOL looking forward to the finish product

[randy1123]

love the beadlocks LOL looking forward to the finish product

It was my 8 year old son's idea. "Dad, will it have beadlocks like the race car?"

[randy1123]

Randy,

Awesome project and great job! I think you should finish it, you took on the beast and almost have it in the boat, now its time to gaff it and put it away! Give your instructor Tommy B a call or Mike at Alumi Craft. They could give you competent suggestions and steer you in the right direction.

By the way, we'll take one too!

Great job!

Mike

Thanks Mike,
I have one more surprise to show you. Of you look close you can see it.
Hint....it involves air.

[jrtorres]

air bags?

[randy1123]

air bags?

Yep.
depending on the trailer ramp, it will high center. So the rear will lift if needed up to 8".
Just another thing to make it more of a challenge.

[diirk]

That's an amazing build. You've done great work!!
Any chance you'll share or sell the plans?

[CADTech]

Randy very nice! Glad to see its working out good.