Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

Yup, true, but now thinking that maybe, just maybe I should put the air tanks on the other side side the fuel tank ... Then I don't have to worry so much about the front fender. Those rear ones are more forgiving ... Might give it a try. Have to wait for the missing bits of the rear suspension anyway.

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

Just moved all my stuff out of storage back into the guest kitchen. Just hope I still know which container holds what. :rolleyes:

While not able to do much on the truck been thinking on how to make a support bracket for the air tanks with my limited tools.

Figured it would be better to make it in 2 separate parts. One L shaped bit that bolts on to the frame that will allow the part holding the air tanks to bolt to it. This approach will give a bit more flexibility in the distance the tanks have from the fuel tank/front fender by using spacers.

First problem is to get an accurate position of the 4 bolt holes in the frame.

I came up with the following solution that I tried out with some scrap pieces.

Cut a piece of plastic so it fits in the frame.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...ps3ktcgz9v.jpg

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...ps22nw1jc3.jpg

Clamp in place and carefully drill the 4 holes

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psivge33ic.jpg

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pshsytc8ya.jpg

Clamp this to a piece of brass plate and use the holes in the plastic as a guide

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psroncacdc.jpg

As you can see it kind of worked ... just have to be able to fix it better so it can't move about during the drilling.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psqnybmr7t.jpg

So that is what is on the program for the moment. Will see how far I get with this approach. Don't really want to get "stuck" on this for too long either.

Mean while the 2 missing bits of the rear suspension arrived too ... of course the self same day I put everything in temporary storage.

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

Glad to see you back at this!

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

Yup slowly getting back into the truck. Having guests kind of disrupts ones routine. So now have a list of other things that need attention too. Simple stuff but time consuming.

Tomorrow will do another attempt at drilling holes. Fingers crossed I line them up properly this time. Got a new 2mm drill bit for the occasion :)

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

So my second try did work out. Bracket finished. Still needs some filing and sanding to take the sharp edges off.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pshufzyx7g.jpg

Trial fit worked too.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...ps8zle9efc.jpg

Still needs a bit of adjusting and maybe try with the bracket on the outside.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pss7whtsjg.jpg

Fits with the front fender too. The bottom air tank needs some mm filed off to accommodate the curve in the front fender.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pshdzoydu9.jpg

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

Can you raise the tanks to allow the bottom tank to fit without mods? Looks like there is a little space to raise the mounting plate. Noticed you made multiple mounting holes in the plates for adjusting.

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

Lynn are you talking about packing shimes on the tank braket to raise tank a little ?

Cheers Tracy

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

Hi Tracy, Lynn is asking if moving the support from the air tanks up a couple of mounting holes might help in avoiding having to file off a bit from the bottom outrank.

So I did try that this morning. By moving the straight bracket that holds the air tanks up 2 holes.

This does indeed help a bit but not really that much due to the angle of the front fender. But as you can see not too much of the air tank would have to be grinded off.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...ps5hq1cogg.jpg

At the moment the bottom air tank is pushing the front fender forwards so it is at an angle. (Have not tightened the bots 100% during all these fitting exercises) The angle is not as bad as it looks to be in the picture.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pstqojzgzt.jpg

Going to let this rest for a bit and get the frame ready for paint.

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

So after getting side tracked with the air tanks for a bit, back to the rear suspension. As mentioned already, the missing pieces were shipped and arrived safely.

So we start by assembling the leafs of the rear suspension.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psmqwus6xp.jpg

Before we assemble them, I filed off the little nub that was left from the attachment point.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psylnjon4y.jpg

First we stack the leafs on the center bolt.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pse9tuegre.jpg

You can use two of the screws, that are used to attach other bits to the rear axles, in the big holes to make sure they are all aligned before tightening that nut.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pshy1cwfcp.jpg

Attach the bushing support to the leaf pack

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psuwhjsend.jpg

Manual states to trim the screws (Left 2 done in this picture)

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pszbu2vcdc.jpg

At this time I also run a 5mm dril bit through the bushing support to remove the coating. This makes it easier to install the bushing afterwards.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psxaobiwve.jpg

Next up is the suspension supports (same as for the air suspension)

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psuzcfjceo.jpg

I replace the M3x6 philips head screw with an allen head one. Easier to install (tip I got from German forum)

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psnqo4fi2g.jpg

The assembly manual indicated to use the higher opening because this is a tractor truck ... might change that later because I intend to use this one more off road. Also I did not use grease on the bushing or Loctite on the screw. Have to come apart again to paint later. You can see that an allan key is easier to use than a philips screwdriver.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psf6zn0onq.jpg

This is as far as I got this session.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pszikprsow.jpg

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

Kind of weird to be quoting myself ...

So tried this version and turned out to be a great success! No need to file bits of the air tanks and no pressure on the front fender. Only need to drill a couple of holes from 1.5mm to 2mm which is easily done.

Here the result - (some nuts and bolts missing because still needs adjusting)

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pssibyu9ha.jpg

Need to move the left tank support one hole over. The air tank support is where the left fuel tank support was before. Will need to drill an extra hole in the frame for the third screw.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pscp1sa7bb.jpg

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pspmbhe1yf.jpg

Still have to decide how high/low I will have the air tanks in relation to the fuel tank.

Well now that this is finally sorted, I can start on finishing the air tank support and then begin painting the frame and all the little bits and pieces from the rear suspension.

Next update will probably be after painting.

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

Isnt it funny how a solution just comes to you after an exorbitant amount of time mulling over the problem? Thats why I'm such a slow builder at times. Ill find myself just sitting and staring at things for hours untill I come up with a solution I like.
Its going to be nice to see some paint on this! Were you able to source some lacquer based rattle cans locally? If you can find some along with some self etching primer you wont regret the results. Or the super fast recoat/drying times. Good luck with the painting.

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

Funny is that I wrote it on here as an afterthought and then forgot about it ... Good thing I noticed or I still be thinking about it.

Found some decent RAL code paints, but they are acrylic. Will be a time consuming exercise, supposed to have about 1 - 2 days between zinc primer and final coats. Going to let it all cure properly and will try to be patient. Will do some test painting on some spare bits beforehand. Will see how it works out.

Not really looking forward to the painting, but needs to be done. Still have to decide which bits I will paint red and which ones black.

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

Glad to see that you figured out the air tank placement. Funny how little things cause the biggest headaches. I just finished my latest vehicle which I will get pics of and post later this week. I am like you. I hate to paint!

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

Hi Lynn ... It still kind of bugs me that if fits on one side and not the other. Was very close to throwing my hands in the air and putting in the larger tank. Well today is perfect for painting. Low humidity and no wind ... will do some samples and see how this paint works out. Lucky it is only the frame so it doesn't have to be perfect.

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

Hi Matze, thanks for the compliment! :)

==============

Sprayed the zinc primer on various left over bits from the Arocs (brass, aluminium, stainless and cast zinc pieces). Seems the be very decent stuff. After 24 hours almost scratch free and seems to stick as it should. Will spray a coat of the paint on them on Friday to see if there is a bad reaction between the different layers. So far so good.

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

Have not given up on this build yet. Just that too many things need attention at the moment. Nothing really complicated but all just time consuming "deal with it now" things like getting new passport and transfer visa etc. So have spend a considerable time in planes, taxis and official offices.

As I mentioned, I painted some left over Arocs bits, and am happy with the quality of the paint. You can see where I have been scratching it with a screwdriver. Took a decent amount of pressure. It is only the stainless steel bits that will need sanding to roughen them up. Would love to bead blast them but that service not available locally.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pswv4fyzkv.jpg

Like for the air suspension, the covers of the track rods were too tight to fit over the connectors. This time I decided to drill them out a bit. Used a 3mm bit.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psppyngovg.jpg

Then assembled them to the indicated 50mm length. Same as for the Arocs

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...ps56dpnie8.jpg

Then fix the connector to both A-frames.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psos1skocl.jpg

No pictures due to dead battery, but decided to use the lift blocks on the front suspension considering the intended use of the truck.

Continued a couple of days later and sanded it all a bit down. In the first picture you can see the lift blocks on the front suspension.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psmgxtdha0.jpg

Lots of small bits to be painted ... going to be interesting

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pseba7sqts.jpg

The hook-up at the back will be black, but the block is part of the frame, so red.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...ps2psihep4.jpg

Still thinking how I am going to paint this front piece... all red or red/white or leave black. The sump protection has to be red though. More sanding there.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psnv2pd1am.jpg

This cabin support (apart from the air filter) should also be either red or black.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psoxsmyntt.jpg

That is where we are at now. Ready to paint but now high humidity and because no rain for 10 weeks very dusty ... not ideal. Not that big a problem since I seem to be suffering from paint block at the moment ... But we will get there. Hopefully next week all time consuming administrative issues will have been sorted, the real live cars serviced, insurance taken care off and home electrical issues fixed ...

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

Any progress is good progress. I dont care for painting either.

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

Got over my "paint bump" today and succeeded in putting primer on the frame and the suspension parts.

With the Arocs I had all bits and pieces hanging from a string, this time I choose another approach. Slower, but I feel I have more control.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psdpadapwe.jpg

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psx196qj1p.jpg

After 30+ minutes I could turn the pieces over and paint the other sides. The little bits on the upper right side didn't need the bottom painted. They get bolted to the axles.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psll2aytck.jpg

Now waiting for 24 - 48 hours for it to dry, then some more light sanding and the final layers can go on.

Meanwhile I can start prepping the other bits that need primer. Figured I do it in "batches" to keep parts together.

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

Finally some real progress to report ...

Painting went OK and I let it all sit for a couple of days to harden out.

Did the rear pendel suspension today. Didn't take that many pictures as it is already well documented in the Arocs thread starting at page 3 post 48.
http://www.rctruckandconstruction.co...t=10313&page=3

Here painted bits and pieces:

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...ps4btwhscl.jpg

All bits sorted in approximate position of assembly.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psn9unepij.jpg

First bolt the bits to the axles. Making sure to put Loctite on the screws.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psnp8eadxr.jpg

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psbdbkipan.jpg

Next up, the attachment for the A-frame.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psqkxuq2ie.jpg

Here I changed the order of assembling vs the Arocs. I remembered what a pain it was to attach the A-frame to the axle with the A-frame already in the chassis. So this time I attached it to the axle before bolting it in the chassis. Way easier to do!

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psbsdrltvm.jpg

Adding the bits and pieces needed to attach to the chassis. Needs grease and Loctite.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psqktddwdp.jpg

Once bolted to the chassis - making sure it still can move up and down - attached the tracking rods. Was a bit worried that the paint would make the fit difficult, but did not encounter any problems.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pssihaiuik.jpg

And last parts the actual leaf spring packet. Because I decided the truck would be "off-road" I used the lower attachment point.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pskyw9phfe.jpg

That's it. Now waiting for the Loctite to set and then a bit of touch up on the nuts and bolts with red paint.

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

Love it. The paint really makes the chassis detail pop!

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

Hi Prop, yup you are right, the red still shows the details. If you compare the pictures to the black one from the Arocs, big difference.

Re-assemled some bits today.

The heavy duty coupling at the front bumper. Couldn't get the pin in due to the paint so had to file out the openings in the coupling. Good thing I didn't paint the bits I left black.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psqeq2kewz.jpg

Also re-attached the fuel tank supports. (fuel tank and straps will be black too)

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psomltlbg1.jpg

Not much done, but time consuming because I had a "senior moment" about where I put some of the bits ...

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

Got around to actually doing something on the MAN again.

Had noticed that the fuel tank supports were not lining up. By moving the left one over to the right, it is not longer really on the more narrow part of the frame. So took the spacer out and replaced it with regular nuts.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pswyivaftf.jpg

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pswcwxavui.jpg

That taken care off, time to do the bowden cables for the rear and front diff locks.

First I needed to bolt the holder for the servo that will operate the rear diff locks to the frame again.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psjj9mwznr.jpg

Also needed to bolt a holder for the rear cable hose to the frame. As with the Arocs, I drilled the 2mm hole out to 2.5mm to facilitate inserting the cable.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psna9ebtfk.jpg

The run of the cable is pretty straight forward.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pspdegibab.jpg

The first rear axle still has the "old style" guide on the diff. So needed to loosen the screw so I could get the cable guide in there.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...ps6wkgppzo.jpg

Wasted some time by trying out a couple of variations of running this cable to see what would work best.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psnkqwvrsu.jpg

Ended up with bolting the front axle back to the frame. Didn't get around to doing the bowden cable for this one. This will be a more interesting exercise since the servo goes into the fuel tank.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psc4i4bvgo.jpg

Might take the cable guides back out and paint them red or black, that way they don't stand out too much.

Also been painting some other bits and pieces. Was surprised to find out that the fifth wheel is cast bronze.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psfhzho9sy.jpg

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

So after yesterday's post, took the cable stuff of again to paint it black. Was not too happy with the way I had them running either, the bends should be much smoother so there is less stress on the servo.

Painting the cable guides black didn't work out too well as you can see on the pictures. Will need some retouching.

Since I had the cable out, I made the hole through which they go to the servo holder a bit larger.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psnfzvxi1u.jpg

I also drilled one of the holes in the frame out to 3.5mm so I can run the servo cable through it to the other side side the frame.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psfirdg4bt.jpg

To run the cables a different way, I needed one more clamp to go on the frame

As you can see the clamps have no thread near the top. ScaleART provided 2.5 mm nuts to go there. Too lazy to search for them, so I just drilled out the thread in a 2mm nut instead. Same result.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psasyedbrg.jpg

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...ps94fdaudu.jpg

Blue arrow is the newly installed clamp

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psebzj2kd9.jpg

Ran the cable for the front axle first. I also installed the rear prop shaft to make sure nothing gets tangled up.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...ps8vasmeu7.jpg

Not too happy with this way either. The bowden cable gets hung up in the frame hole. And the clamp on the other side of the frame is not in the right location. So dumped that idea.

Here both installed in a way they have free movement, don't rub too much and have nice big bends.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...ps8rzahiw1.jpg

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pshhdvwlau.jpg

In the following 2 pics you can also see the amount of movement in the prop shaft. I did put grease on the shaft, was a bit tight after painting. Also put Loctite on the grub screws holding the prop shaft to the axles.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psmufst50i.jpg

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psvbka9m7h.jpg

I also removed the clamp I installed yesterday since I didn't need it.

So now to the front axle ... Had to install engine/gearbox/propshafts to check for interference with the cable.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...ps44gdyuez.jpg

Cable can run like this

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psnpnnrwvk.jpg

This is where we are at now ...

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pstlagez9b.jpg

Seems that before I can do the servo in the fuel tank, I will have to add some more bits and pieces to the frame to know the almost exact position of the fuel tank. Also time to dig out the electronics to set the servos in "neutral" so I can start cutting the actual cables.

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

Great build you've got going on, the red frame really makes everything stand out :)
I remember having to spend some time doing those cable to tamiya truck, keeping them away from moving parts and still working how they should needed a lot of patients

Calum

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

Hi Calum, thanks for the complement! :)

Spend today bolting most of the stuff back to the frame so I can get this thing moving again.

Painted the inside of the front fenders black - tried to tape it off for spray painting but that wasn't really practical. So just used a brush. Not that great a finish, but being mat black, will be barely visible anyway once the truck is finished.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...ps7fxbqbee.jpg

Re-assembled the painted exhaust. Was of two minds to put the speaker in there, but in the end decided against it.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psvpqntlkz.jpg

The board will have to go like this over the exhaust. If I do it over the fuel tank, there would be no access to the fill opening.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pshzfnvazh.jpg

Rear fender supports back on

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psg9hj3bdg.jpg

Plenty of Loctite on these. Also changed the provided philips head screws with these bolts. They are smaller at top and fit without hassle between the M1.6 bolt heads where the heavy duty rear is bolted to the frame

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psy0gx6dby.jpg

Moved the actual fender one bolt hole in compared to how I did it before.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psbndr1lzk.jpg

Rear fenders and rear lights installed.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psx7gk4s9k.jpg

Air tanks support and air tanks installed

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psps6ihdvp.jpg

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psuxa7yobh.jpg

Mud flaps attached

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pskqprtqls.jpg

And bolts cut as close to the nut as possible

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psklowoihd.jpg

Painted all the stainless steel screw heads matt black (as per a tip from Newcomer_2) and finally got the rear wheels back on.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psqjjcqo9q.jpg

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psq4wr3pze.jpg

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psvags6rxl.jpg

And bolted a short M2 screw in the opening of the front differential to prevent muck from entering.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psmuvb3i7s.jpg

Next up the fifth wheel, cabin attachments front and back, motor/gearbox and then finally the servo for the front differential.

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

Such a detailed rig. Loving watching this come together.

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

Hi Prop, detailed it is. And slowly getting back together too.

So yesterday I re-attached the rear cab support which has to be at 90°.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psr6r70paq.jpg

Then got the servo for the fifth wheel in it's neutral setting.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psnhf91cd4.jpg

Re-assembled the fifth wheel and bolted it in place.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pscaqahwli.jpg

After that I re-installed the engine/gearbox and propshafts, and today I finally did the servo that goes into the fuel tank.

The servo holder that goes into the tank is actually for 2 servos and the bigger tank, so will need to shorten it a bit. On the bottom right you can see that the holder has a "foot" - I was a bit worried that I would have to sort something out about that to keep things stable, but it all worked out in the end.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pslvov4ynv.jpg

Bolted the servo onto the holder and inserted it into the fuel tank. Very very tight fit. The Hitec servos are just a bit thicker than the Robbe ones ...

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psc6lzg395.jpg

View from the other side ... pressed a bit too hard and slightly bend the servo holder. No big deal, easy to straighten out again.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psuqb7yext.jpg

Realised that I better install the filler cap first because I had to drill out the hole to 5mm to fit the cap. Would have been awkward with servo etc in place.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pselmzdppy.jpg

Filler cap glued in place with super glue

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psh9tqnp4d.jpg

Servo centered etc etc

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psp2ctaiqh.jpg

The servo was a bit wobbly because of the 2 pieces of shoulder on the housing. Decided to file them off so the servo would be more stable.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psmymolax7.jpg

Servo horn drilled to 2mm to take the cable clamp

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psr2fix6ep.jpg

Continued ...

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

The cable clamp installed and testing fit in the tank ... the servo horn hits the edges, so will have to do something to get the servo further back

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psljtdj3i9.jpg

3 M3 washers on each side solve the spacing problem, but now the thread from the cable clamp is hitting the edge.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pst6mjhfkt.jpg

So this gets cut off, the outside cable tube is attached so I can define the exact length I will need before I insert the steel cable.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psnwsy2sox.jpg

The servo in place, and the cable and servo wire pulled through the 4.5mm hole I had drilled in the back of the fuel tank. (The cable has been pulled through that hole so many times all the black paint got rubbed off ...)

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...ps0saee05d.jpg

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psaptg4w56.jpg

After this final fitting and cutting the cable hose to size, the steel cable installed, everything back in the tank, the sides clipped on and the tank attached to the frame. Forgot to take pictures from the bottom, but will do when I attach the cable to the front diff lock and adjust the servo.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psnq2x4q6e.jpg

Set the cab in place to get an idea what it will end up looking

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psaart6aen.jpg

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...ps9rvw6brp.jpg

Next up will be the servo block that goes in front of the motor/gearbox, and then have to get out the receiver etc. so I can adjust all the servos.

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

The missing picture of the cable going to the front differential.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psua4t0v9m.jpg

The servo block installed in front. Not the easiest of installs - a bit difficult to line the holes up, but with some patience it all comes together without too many problems.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psqggc7xqa.jpg

Next up the bowden cable from the center differential.
Not the most accessible place and should have checked for fit before installing the motor/gearbox unit. Had to clear some paint from the opening, not so easy with unit in place.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pskr0ra9ul.jpg

The cable loops from the right side to the left side, goes behind the crossbrace and loops back towards the front on the right side to end up at the servo.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...ps9tnmdu0u.jpg

The cable clamp at the servo is not accessible. The front axle blocks it.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pslrj04rpa.jpg

Solution, undo the clamp, run cable through it and tighten the grub screw

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psgd5ouqzo.jpg

Then you can run the teflon tube through it, followed by the steel pull cable.

Here installed, together with the front steering rod.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...ps5gtxptbj.jpg

The gearbox linkage next. This gets installed with gearbox in 2nd gear (indicated with a mark on the rod that comes out of the gearbox)

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...ps7xgxhfoj.jpg

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...ps4inaetbh.jpg

Last are the pull cable for the 2 rear axles. Because I was first planning an air suspension, I cut off the cable clamps and drilled a hole next to it. I should have ordered new bits from ScaleART for this, but didn't think about it. Oh well. So I just installed as I would have had to do for the air suspension.

I ran the cable in a loop (fine tweezers sure are handy here)

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pscebr3zgn.jpg

Tighten the loop and slide the provided sleeve in place.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psd6rxfl4a.jpg

As added security, I also put a good amount of superglue on the cables before taking pliers to the sleeve.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psovoyanip.jpg

Cables tensioned at the servo.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pscqbp7whs.jpg

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

The color schema is really nice - looking forward to see the truck and its trailer completed

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

Hi Tom, thanks for the compliment on the colours. And I better hope I still have enough of the red left for the trailer! Just found out the supplier no longer delivers the stuff :( Is what you get for going to live out here I guess ...

As for when it all will be ready??? Well today I finally got around to setting up the receiver and syncing it to the sender ... because I figured I didn't need to check the manual, I succeeded in completely erasing the data from the Arocs (and probably the Fumotec too) ... So stupid.

Well at least I got the new receiver sorted out (kind off)

Here some pics (at least I have to show something for the "disaster") :rolleyes:

Hooked up the battery to the board and got a nice "zap" when I touched the contacts ...

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psv3zbrlxx.jpg

So some electrical tape was on order

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...ps4u8agrry.jpg

After the Arocs build I got me a decent crimper for the wires on eBay. So much easier to work with and less chance of short circuits because of stray bits of wire touching one another.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psqzpgqu5p.jpg

The set up for syncing the receiver and the transmitter.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psm5dwsior.jpg

In the interval between above and below picture I really succeeded in messing up the programming from the AROCS so I didn't get around to the fine tuning of the servos used in the truck.

At least I have some pictures that show how to sync the receiver and transmitter.

First you search for a new model

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psby4zejig.jpg

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psvieagfsm.jpg

Once a model is discovered you assign it a memory location and start setting it up, starting with a name

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psdn1nzu1a.jpg

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pstmtdjfav.jpg

You can also add a password if you like.

I then selected one of the pre-made configuration that are already programmed into the transmitter. This gives a good base to start from. The connection is then established.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pss1nxmbxa.jpg

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psja6u1kok.jpg

Next up will be plugging in the servos in the right slots and fine tune the limits and dead points.

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

So, plugged in all the servos to check where they go. Switched on receiver and sender, and did a quick check of all the functions.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psjrjby9nc.jpg

Then unplugged them all to be able to check them one by one and adjust the settings.

Started with the centre diff lock. As you can see the servo swings too wide which puts too much stress on it.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psw1s4lbmc.jpg

For this we have to go in the programming of the sender for that servo.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psgcdhrch1.jpg

Press the OK button to enter menu for that Servo

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pshgmbrqfo.jpg

Scroll down until we find the servo adjustments

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psb036lpuh.jpg

Press OK and enter the settings

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pse5upipfs.jpg

That done, on to the rear differential which needed the servo reversed since activating the rear diff lock released all tension on the cable

Same thing, enter menu, scroll down to find the adjustment and make the change (the pre loaded program is not 100% right)

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psvg9ibwno.jpg

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pshbcbivxi.jpg

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psxvcn628n.jpg

After this, on to adjusting the swing of the servo, but after a couple of adjustment the servo stopped responding ... so one dead servo ... not too happy about that.

Then more misery, the front diff lock servo (yup the one the fuel tank) pulled the same stunt ... so that one dead as a dodo too ...

Have one spare one (from the Arocs trailer coupling I didn't use) and ordered 2 replacements - just in case.

Opened up the servo from the rear diff and but can't see anything burned. Guess just bad luck. Neither servo been under stress either (not like the one I burned out in the Arocs)

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psajg4b9lq.jpg

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pssupdkgle.jpg

Well that throws a wrench in the works ... have to wait at least 2 - 3 weeks for those 2 servos to make it here ... Not too happy at the moment.

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

We had several "hitec" servos dying :/

Surprisingly this happened despite setting max load parameters with the hitec programmic tool. In my arocs the hitec sayed good bye to the world with smoke & smell :/

Br,
Thomas

Ps: isnt there an english onscreen menu available on commander as well?

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

Hi Thomas, indeed there is an English menu, but I got one of the first ones out of the company - it even came without manual. I have the English software (you can download it from their website) but haven't got around to installing it in the transmitter. Well, since I am Flemish, the German isn't that big a problem (can read and speak German, but have hard time writing it), and it keeps the curious here from messing with it. :)

The Hitec servos wouldn't be such a big deal if I was in a place where you can go to a hobby shop and buy them, here nobody has them in stock, so have to order them, which takes time. One company in Kuala Lumpur has stock, but they want US$47.90 + shipping - a bit excessive if you ask me. Cheaper to get them from USA or EU and wait a bit.

Well not looking forward to redo the one in the fuel tank though. Glad I didn't follow the manual and had both of them in the larger tank.

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

Sorry to hear about your servo woes. Ive had alot of issues with the mini and micro size servos also. Out of the 4 hitec micros i ordered one was doa, and just recently a futaba mini I was using as a shift servo on my Disco went up in smoke. Literally. I need to order 7 servos for the new Tatra and have decided to go with Savox. I hear nothing but good things regarding them. Maybe worth a look.

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

Thought about Savoy, have those in the CAPO truck. Played with the idea to get one out of there, but too much work taking the thing apart. Also not sure about the fit and a tad too lazy to check the sizes. Will see how it works out.

Maybe I should just have gone for the non-digital ones. Might order some of those next time. Less to go wrong.

Meanwhile I will adjust the rest of the servos and plug the spare I have in the fuel tank. Start pulling the electrics towards the front etc. That will keep me busy for a bit.

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

Well got the fuel tank off and the servo out. Checked servo, same as the other one. I connected the electric motor of the servo directly to a 5 volt battery, and no go, so seems like the little motor died and not the electronics. So much for the trouble shooting I could do here.

Had a really hard time getting the side covers of the fuel tank. Good thing I didn't glue them as suggested in the manual!

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...pshy774yd7.jpg

Stuck the spare servo in there, and hooked it all up to the receiver and then switched diff lock on and off a couple of times. This servo seems to be behaving. (Actually should have used receiver/transmitter the first time too.)

Diff unlocked

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psly7ldztn.jpg

Locked

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psqu1dr0vi.jpg

Stuck it all in the fuel tank and then locked/unlocked about 40 - 50 times ...

Very tight fit though.

Unlocked

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psj8zgquyt.jpg

Locked - The nut of the cable holder is almost touching the sides. Thinking of adding 4 or even 5 washers instead of 3, but will have to file some of the ridge to make sure the servo fits then.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psknilqxgq.jpg

I dinged the tank taking it out, so will need a bit of sanding and painting again ...

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

Tight indeed. I would never have thought that a servo was in there. Very neat place to hide ithe. Thanks for sharing the photos!

Re: ScaleART - Assembling a MAN TGX/XL 6x6 tractor & Trailer
 

Hi Liftmys10, If we could still get the FS 70 MG servos from Robbe it would be a bit easier. Those are about 1mm less wide and 2 mm less high. But sadly enough Robbe had to close the books and the Hitec ones are closest in size for the same torque.

Well nothing a couple of washers and a bit of filing can't take care off.

And filing is the only thing I got around to doing today.

http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/...psm8xtsgu3.jpg

Taking that ridge out should make it possible to get the servo a tad more to the back so there is more than a hair's width of space left when the diff is locked. Bit worried that over time the plastic servo horn will start bending a little under the tension and hit the sides causing more stress on the servo.