Trailer - Tamiya 3 axle setup question

[aseejr]

Can anyone show me a picture of a Tamiya 3 axle trailer - suspension setup (NOT the reefer suspension). Trying to figure out how to add the 3rd axle.

Would like to build a Tamiya tanker B-train.

Thank you,
Albert

[Espeefan]

I'm pretty sure the majority of guys running 3 axle trailers are most often running a tandem, stock walking beam spring set-up on two axles, and then an individual leaf spring set-up for the third. Others may not run any springs at all, the third axle is a lift axle. They use a servo to raise and lower it, sometimes with, and sometimes without a single leaf spring.

Alternatively, you could run a simulated air bag set-up, available from PMD. Then every axle would be sprung individually, with no walking beams and no leaf springs.

Another good idea (my personal choice) would be to run two walking beam spring packs, across the three axles, with the center axle being sprung equally by the two walking beam spring packs. The outer axles, simply having one end each, of the spring pack. Performance-wise, that would probably give you the best suspension. I have no photos, but it's not to complex. Perhaps others will chime in with some of their set-ups.

This happens to be a perfect example of a three axle, walking beam suspension, I just found. Look at Kyle's pictures and you'll find exactly what you need.

http://rctruckandconstruction.com/sh...96&postcount=4

[roadranger]

Here's how one guy did it;
custom made shackles to tie the springs together.



And here's how I did it;
Uses all stock Tamiya suspension parts combining 2 rear suspension assemblies

Look closely at the center axle;
that's a radius arm bracket on top - one spring eye bolts into it, the other spring eye slips along an aluminum piece glued inside the bracket on top of the bolt heads. You can't bolt both spring eyes into the bracket, then there is no articulation.



Here they are set up on my B-trains;

[aseejr]

Thanks for the replies.

I've started the build of my tanker B-Train (front trailer). I picked up a Tamiya pole trailer to get the extra suspension pieces, not knowing that the plastic pieces in the pole trailer is not black. Going to exchange it for a flat deck trailer and continue with the build this weekend. I'll post pictures when I get further along with the project.

[roadranger]

You can always paint components not the color you want ...
But working with the Flatbed will be better, you can use the frame rails cut down for the rear part of the B chassis.

[aseejr]

A little progress:





Above is going to be the front half of a tanker trailer b-train.

[steamer]

Albert. Your off to a great start. The tri axle is going to be huge. What truck line are you going to do it up as.
Trimac is the one you see here on the island the most.

Rob

[aseejr]

Rob,

I see in the background of your photo that your dump truck is coming along pretty good too.

Albert

[Espeefan]

That's how it's done. Looking really good!

[aseejr]

A little update.





I know that this build really doesn't even come close to some of the other builds posted in this forum. Sure make one realize all the planning, time and effort that goes into these projects. I'm still scratching my head trying to get this done.

GOOD JOB GUYS.

[roadranger]

Looking good, Rob! Looks professional to me.
You've got a nice looking tractor, too.

Just make sure the rear trailer tank can swing around a turn without hitting the lead tank.
(not knowing yet how long your lead tank is going to be...)

I like your workbench too - nice and looong!
PM me if you want to consult with a fellow B-train builder...

[aseejr]

This is after 2-1/2 years. Finally almost finished this project!

[steamer]

Albert, Great job and a nice finish for the project. Glad to see you back at it again. Looks like Greg, Lou and I will be at the Campbell River museum in Jan. again. You'll have to bring it over for display.

[RCLogger]

Just found this thread of yours Albert, WOW. Great job, I am looking forward to see your truck in action.

Greg