The LMT Project: A Collaboration with Kevin Hetmanski
I have an exciting project to share with you today, one that I have been teasing on the channel. This project is a collaboration with my good friend Kevin Hetmanski, who is not only known for his car action expertise but is also an incredible machinist. When Kevin saw the Toyon engine that I had reviewed previously, he couldn’t resist the opportunity to put it into something. I donated the engine to him, and what we are about to see is his incredible creation.
Introduction to the Project
Hello, everyone! I have been working on this project for quite some time now, and I am thrilled to finally be able to show you what I have accomplished. This project has been quite challenging because it is not as simple as just dropping the engine into a vehicle. There has been a tremendous amount of design work, strategic thinking, and intricate calculations to ensure that everything fits perfectly, as you can see here. So, let’s get started and explore this project together.
The Exterior: J Concepts Bigfoot Body
Let’s begin with the body of the vehicle. I opted for the J Concepts Bigfoot body because I love its trophy truck look, which I felt would be perfect for this project. I decided to give it a custom paint job, although nothing too extravagant. The focus here was to create a clean and sleek appearance that would complement the overall design of the project.
The Engine Placement and Integration
Now, let’s get into the technical aspects of this project. As I mentioned earlier, fitting the Toyon engine into the vehicle was no easy feat. Kevin, with his expertise as a machinist, worked tirelessly to ensure that the engine found its perfect place within the vehicle. Countless hours of design, calculations, and modifications were necessary to achieve seamless integration.
Design Challenges and Solutions
There were several design challenges that Kevin had to overcome during this project. The first challenge was ensuring that the engine didn’t overpower the vehicle or compromise its balance. Through careful calculations and adjustments, Kevin was able to achieve an optimal weight distribution, allowing the vehicle to maintain its agility and handling.
Another challenge was cooling the engine effectively. The Toyon engine generates a significant amount of heat, and it was crucial to ensure proper ventilation and cooling mechanisms were in place. Kevin cleverly designed a custom cooling system that not only kept the engine at an optimal temperature but also added a unique visual element to the overall design.
The Final Result: A Masterpiece
After months of hard work, meticulous planning, and teamwork, the LMT project is complete, and the final result is nothing short of a masterpiece. The integration of the Toyon engine with the J Concepts Bigfoot body is seamless, creating a visually stunning and high-performance vehicle.
I am incredibly proud of what Kevin has achieved with this project. His expertise and dedication to detail are evident in every aspect of the vehicle. It is a true testament to the power of collaboration and the endless possibilities that arise from combining unique skill sets.
Creating a Stylish RC Truck Design
I, like the blue and gray together, so I just went with that kind of scheme and came up with a quick design layout. The RC driver logo, towing logo, so manski, hobby, logos, and so on are all paint. Those are done with some stencils on my sticker. Vinyl cutter, I like doing logos on the body, so this was kind of fun to put together. It’s nice to see those RC driver logos on there. They look really good with the blue paint, also from J Concepts.
Choose the right tires
We have some GCT tires, so I got the GCT tires because I just like the scale look of the tire. It looks like a Monster Jam Tire in this case. I don’t really care about the performance. I don’t have any specific thing I’m going to do with the truck. I just wanted it to look good, so that’s why I have these tires. I even added their blue beadlock rings to kind of tie them with the paint job, and I have their rims that match the tires.
Revealing the inner workings
Underneath the body, though, is where all the magic happens, as they say. So let’s take off the body and give you a look. This is the toyin engine in the middle of the truck. This blower assembly has nothing to do with anything other than it’s an air cleaner, but it looks really cool. It looks like the engine has a blower. People love it and so on.
Revamping the Twin Engine: A Journey of Redesign and Innovation
Throughout this project, I embarked on the challenging task of transforming a twin engine into an efficient and sleek masterpiece. With its sheer size and unexpected weight, fitting it in was no simple feat. Countless hours were spent contemplating, designing, printing, reprinting, all with the goal of achieving a factory-like finish. Let’s delve into the details of this inline twin four-stroke engine and the modifications I made to enhance its performance.
The Intake: An Air Cleaner of its Own
One crucial aspect of the engine is its intake system. In order to optimize airflow and filtration, I designed a scaled-down 3D printed engine as a future project. Utilizing the blower assembly from that design, I carefully modified and created a mount for the top of the engine. It now includes a foam filter located inside the lower part of the assembly. The assembly remains open on top, allowing for easy access and maintenance. Moreover, I incorporated a fitting on the side, connecting it to the carburetor through custom-made tubing, all of which was 3D printed. The result is a streamlined intake system providing clean air to the carburetor.
Simplifying the Carburetion Process
One aspect of the original toy’s inline twin engine that presented complexity was the utilization of two carburetors. Tuning two carburetors can be a daunting task, so I sought to simplify this process. By discarding the dual carburetor setup, I streamlined the engine’s fuel delivery system. A single carburetor now efficiently takes care of feeding the engine. This alteration not only ensures ease of tuning but also enhances the overall performance and reliability of the engine.
My Personal Touch: Reimagining the Electronics
While the electronics provided by Twin were designed to run the engine, I decided to embark on my own path of innovation. I meticulously replaced and redesigned the electronic components, putting my own twist on the engine. By incorporating cutting-edge electronics and optimizing various systems, I achieved a level of control and customization that truly sets this engine apart from its predecessors. This personalization ensures a seamless and superior engine performance.
Revamping the Carburetor: A DIY Approach to Engine Modification
The world of engine modification is vast and ever-evolving. Enthusiasts are always on the lookout for ways to improve performance, responsiveness, and overall efficiency. As a self-proclaimed gearhead, I found myself pondering ways to enhance my engine without breaking the bank. After much consideration, I decided to focus on a single aspect – the carburetor. In this article, I will share my experience of stealing a slide carb off a discarded engine and creating an adapter to feed my current engine. The results? A responsive and smooth carburetor that exceeded my expectations.
The Single Carburetor Advantage
One of the primary motivations behind my engine modification endeavor was the desire for simplicity. Dealing with multiple carburetors can be a daunting task, requiring extensive tuning and maintenance. By opting for a single carburetor setup, I aimed to streamline this process and achieve a more efficient engine performance. The slide carburetor I chose proved to be a perfect fit for my objectives. Its responsiveness and smooth operation made the whole experience truly enjoyable.
A Departure from Conventional Wisdom
When delving into the world of engine modification, one often encounters a plethora of recommendations and guidelines. Manufacturers of starter twins, for instance, provide detailed instructions on the batteries and accessories to use for optimal performance. However, I decided to veer off the beaten path and follow my intuition. Discarding the manufacturer’s recommendations, I sought ways to innovate and have a little fun in the process.
An Unconventional Power Source
Instead of relying on the prescribed batteries and accessories, I turned to an old speed control device that I had lying around. Originally designed to turn the motor over and power the receiver, this device became my solution to multiple power sources. By powering the servos and the starter with a single battery, my modifications simplified the overall setup. The convenience of using only one battery cannot be understated – it saved both space and resources.
A Versatile Solution
In addition to the modified power source, I also incorporated an empty space in my design to accommodate a small Traxxas lipo battery. This innovative addition allowed me to use either a 2s or a 3s lipo, depending on my needs. By securely strapping the lipo with a velcro strap, I ensured its stability during operation. This versatility opened up possibilities for adjusting the engine’s power output and experimenting with different performance levels.
In conclusion, my journey in revamping the carburetor proved to be a rewarding endeavor. By stealing a single slide carb and creating an adapter to feed my engine, I achieved a more responsive and smooth operation. My departure from conventional wisdom, propelled by an unconventional power source, simplified the setup while providing the necessary power for both servos and the starter. The inclusion of a Traxxas lipo battery further enhanced the versatility of my modified engine. As fellow enthusiasts, let us be inspired to think outside the box and explore innovative solutions that revolutionize our engine’s performance.
Customizing the Glow Plug Engine: Overcoming Challenges
The Hidden Wires
The first thing that catches the eye when looking at a glow plug engine is the absence of visible wires. This is not a design flaw but rather a work in progress. The main concept behind this engine is to mimic a radio-controlled switch, where flicking it would ignite the glow plugs with two Double A batteries.
Fitting the Engine
In order to fit this engine into the chassis of the truck, certain modifications had to be made. The chassis was custom-made, extending its length and width by half an inch to accommodate all the necessary components. This adjustment posed an initial challenge, but the end result was well worth the extra effort and time.
The Revolving Problem
Unlike two-stroke nitro engines that rev high, these engines have a much lower revving capability. This created a hurdle when it came to finding a suitable clutch for the engine. Most clutches available in the market are designed for two-stroke engines, not four-stroke engines. This meant that a custom clutch setup had to be created to address this issue.
An Experimentation with Clutches
To solve the problem of finding a clutch that would work effectively with the four-stroke engine, an experimentation process took place. Eventually, a tlr8 acl4 shoe aluminum clutch was selected as the best option. The choice of aluminum was based on its gripping ability, which proved superior to composite materials commonly used in clutches. Moreover, the clutch also offered versatility with its availability of different springs, allowing for further customization.
Achieving the Perfect Setup
By customizing the clutch and selecting the appropriate components, a unique setup was created for the glow plug engine. This setup not only addressed the challenges of fitting the engine and finding a suitable clutch but also provided the ideal revving capability for the engine. The end result was a successful integration of the engine into the truck, creating a one-of-a-kind custom-built vehicle.
In conclusion, customizing a glow plug engine comes with its fair share of challenges. However, with innovative thinking, experimentation, and careful selection of components, these challenges can be overcome. The process may require additional time and effort, but the end result is a highly personalized and high-performing engine that exceeds expectations.
Exploring Clutch System Tuning for Enhanced Performance
Tackling the Engagement Issue
The clutch system is a crucial component in any vehicle, determining how power is transferred from the engine to the transmission. However, in my recent experience with tuning the clutch system, I encountered a common issue. Even with the lightest springs available for all four clutch shoes, the engagement of the clutch was delayed until reaching full throttle. This lack of immediate engagement hindered the truck’s performance. To rectify this problem, I began to consider alternative solutions.
Exploring Alternative Solutions
To address the engagement issue, I contemplated two potential solutions. The first option was to drill the aluminum clutches and insert a steel pin. This modification would make the clutch system more responsive and efficient. As an alternative, I considered having custom steel clutch shoes fabricated. These steel shoes would allow us to fine-tune the clutch system further by adjusting the springs to achieve the desired engagement speed. Whether we needed a slower or faster engagement, we could modify the clutch accordingly.
Aiming for Optimal Performance
In the pursuit of maximizing the truck’s performance, I decided to focus on other aspects as well. One particular area of interest was the exhaust system. Extensive research led me to the discovery that truck engines do not require a tuned exhaust system to function effectively. Therefore, I weighed the option of installing a scale exhaust system, primarily for aesthetic purposes.
The 3D Printing Solution
As I delved deeper into my investigation, I turned to the realm of 3D printing for potential solutions. Shapeways, a leading provider of 3D printing services, offered a range of materials suitable for withstanding the high temperatures of an exhaust system. This revelation opened up new possibilities for crafting a custom exhaust system that would perfectly complement the truck’s appearance. The versatility of 3D printing enabled me to explore various designs and materials, ensuring the final product would be both functional and visually appealing.
In conclusion, by addressing the engagement issue of the clutch system and exploring the potential of a custom exhaust system through the utilization of 3D printing, I aim to elevate the performance of my truck. Through careful tuning and modification, I am confident in achieving a well-balanced and high-performing vehicle that meets my desired standards. The journey of fine-tuning and optimizing a vehicle can be as thrilling as the final result, and I look forward to continuing this project with enthusiasm.
The Benefits of a Scale Exhaust System
When it comes to modifying our RC trucks, the possibilities are endless. From upgrading the suspension to installing new tires, there are plenty of ways to personalize and enhance our vehicles. One modification that I recently made, which has truly transformed the overall experience, is a scale exhaust system. In this article, I will discuss the benefits of this modification and how it has added realism and functionality to my RC truck.
Custom Headers for Added Realism
One of the main reasons why I decided to install a scale exhaust system was to enhance the sound and appearance of my RC truck. I invested in a custom header setup that perfectly complements the design of my vehicle. These headers, which I like to call “zoomy headers”, are not just for show – they are fully functional. The smoke that is emitted from the exhaust gives my truck a realistic touch, making it stand out from the crowd. The attention to detail and the craftsmanship of the scale exhaust system truly bring my RC truck to life.
The Importance of a Proper Fuel Tank
Another modification that I made to my RC truck was the installation of a TLR8 fuel tank. The reason behind this choice was simple – the engine of my truck consumes a lot of fuel. Therefore, I needed a fuel tank with a good capacity to ensure that my RC truck can run smoothly without frequent refueling breaks. What sets this fuel tank apart is its internal clunk, which ensures that regardless of the truck’s orientation, the engine will always receive a steady supply of fuel. This feature has significantly improved the performance of my RC truck, allowing me to enjoy longer driving sessions without interruptions.
Easy Refueling and Constant Engine Power
To make the installation of the TLR8 fuel tank seamless, I created custom mounts that perfectly fit the frame rails of my RC truck. Thanks to this setup, refueling my truck is now a breeze. I can simply lift up the tank, fill it up quickly, and continue driving without having to stop the engine. This convenience has elevated my RC truck experience to a whole new level, as I can now focus on enjoying the thrill of driving without unnecessary breaks.
The Advantages of a Water-Cooled Engine
One standout feature of my RC truck’s engine is its water-cooling system. This is a significant improvement from my previous experience with four-stroke engines. The water-cooling system ensures that the engine stays at an optimal temperature, even during long and intense driving sessions. This not only prolongs the life of the engine but also enhances its overall performance. I no longer have to worry about overheating or constantly monitoring the engine temperature. The water-cooling system adds peace of mind and allows me to fully enjoy the capabilities of my RC truck.
In conclusion, a scale exhaust system has proven to be a worthwhile modification for my RC truck. From the realistic sound and appearance to the improved functionality and convenience, this upgrade has truly elevated my enjoyment of RC trucking. By carefully selecting custom headers, installing a proper fuel tank, creating custom mounts, and benefiting from a water-cooled engine, I have transformed my RC truck into a powerhouse of performance and aesthetics. If you are looking to take your RC truck to the next level, I highly recommend considering a scale exhaust system.
The Benefits of Water Cooling Systems
A water cooling system can provide significant advantages over air cooling. While air cooling systems can be challenging to keep cool, water cooling eliminates this concern. With water cooling, you can rely on the water to take care of the cooling process, making it much easier to manage. However, there are still considerations to keep in mind when it comes to the fuel lines and radiator placement.
Innovative Mounts and Adapters
To address the issue of running fuel lines inside the radiator, custom mounts were created to attach the radio to the stock chassis plates in the front of the LMT. Additionally, special adapters were made to enable the use of standard fittings for the water lines. This modification ensures that the water lines feed into the engine securely without the risk of them coming out or becoming loose. The system is designed to be air-free for optimal performance.
Eliminating the Fan
A fan was eliminated from the cooling system since there is substantial airflow coming from the front of the vehicle. The absence of a fan is an experiment to gauge whether the airflow from the front is sufficient to cool the engine through the air radiator. If the airflow proves to be insufficient, a 3D printed fan shroud has been created as a backup solution. This shroud utilizes two brushless fans to draw in air and ensure the engine remains cool. While the fans are not currently in use, having the option provides flexibility depending on the circumstances.
Transmission Considerations
It is important to note that these engines do not rev high, which has implications for the transmission. The lower rev range means that the transmission must be able to handle the specific requirements of the engine. Careful consideration and adjustments should be made to ensure that the transmission is optimized for these engines. This ensures smooth operation and optimal performance of the vehicle.
In conclusion, water cooling systems offer numerous advantages over air cooling systems. With proper modifications, the fuel lines and radiator placement can be effectively managed. The elimination of a fan is an experiment that relies on sufficient airflow from the front, with a fallback option available if needed. Careful attention to the transmission is crucial to ensure compatibility with the engine’s lower rev range. By implementing these considerations, the overall performance and longevity of the vehicle can be enhanced.
Creating a Custom Gear Ratio for Improved Performance: A DIY Approach
Designing the Transmission: Avoiding Compromises
When it comes to optimizing the performance of my truck, purchasing a pre-made transmission simply didn’t seem like the ideal solution. The risk of ending up with the wrong gear ratio or a subpar product concerned me. Instead, I decided to take matters into my own hands and design the entire transmission system myself.
The Importance of the Transfer Case
Given the low revs of the four-stroke engine, I recognized the need for a transfer case that could effectively gear up. Unlike many transfer cases that gear down, I wanted one that would gear up to increase my speed. By designing and incorporating this specific kind of transfer case into my truck, I could expect to achieve the desired acceleration and velocity.
Enhancing Speed with a Two-Speed Transmission
To further enhance the speed capabilities of my truck, I opted to include a Traxxas Revo two-speed transmission. This component would connect to the transfer case housing, allowing me to achieve even greater velocity on the road. Additionally, the ability to adjust shift points ensured that I could fine-tune the performance to suit my preferences.
The Integration of Front and Rear Axles
In order to effectively channel the power from the transmission to the wheels, I connected the two-speed transmission housing to the front and rear axles of the truck. To ensure compatibility, I utilized Traxxas brakes and designed an aluminum adapter to fit them to the custom-made drive shaft. This integration not only promotes smooth power delivery but also ensures reliable and efficient braking.
Prioritizing Stopping Power: Carbon Fiber Brake Pads
For optimal stopping power, I needed brake pads that could withstand the demands of my truck’s enhanced speed and power. Drawing from my past experiences, I opted for carbon fiber brake pads. To attain a perfect fit, I utilized my CNC router to cut carbon fiber brake discs designed explicitly for this truck and its specific applications. The combination of carbon fiber and precision craftsmanship guarantees exceptional braking performance.
Final Touches: Stock Components
Despite my dedication to customizing the gear ratio and transmission system, there were certain components that I decided to leave in their stock form. These elements, although not modified or personalized, still contribute to the overall performance of the truck. By striking a balance between customized and stock parts, I can ensure the truck’s reliability and functionality.
In conclusion, the process of designing a custom gear ratio and transmission system for my truck has allowed me to optimize its performance truly. By creating a transfer case that gears up, integrating a two-speed transmission, and utilizing high-quality brake pads, I have achieved a more powerful and efficient driving experience. The combination of precision design, thoughtful customization, and strategic use of stock components ensures both reliability and performance in my truck.
A Customized Truck with LMT DNA: An Extraordinary Transformation
When it comes to customizing vehicles, enthusiasts always strive to add a personal touch that makes their ride stand out. One such automobile that recently caught my attention is a modified truck that boasts an incredible transformation. Built with immense precision and attention to detail, this truck truly deserves recognition. In this article, we will delve into the various modifications that have been made, highlighting the unique features and the hard work it took to bring this extraordinary creation to life.
Preserving the Essence: Stock Suspension and Axle
Despite the hefty modifications, the creator of this masterpiece decided to retain the stock suspension and axles as a tribute to the original design. The four-link suspension, along with the front and rear axles, offer a taste of the truck’s initial DNA. By keeping the stock components, the builder ensured that the truck maintained its authenticity while enhancing its overall performance and capability.
Engine Bay Reallocation: Creating Space
In order to accommodate a more powerful engine, the chassis of the truck was remodeled to allow for an increase in wheelbase. This modification not only provides more room for the engine but also enhances the vehicle’s stability and handling. The builder’s ingenuity in maneuvering the suspension links and adapting the chassis demonstrates their expertise in custom vehicle construction.
The Personalized Touch: Milling Machine Magic
To ensure a perfect fit for the truck’s body, the front of the chassis was skillfully trimmed using a milling machine. This meticulous alteration guarantees ample clearance for the body, adding to the overall aesthetic appeal of the truck. With this personalized touch, the builder has elevated the truck’s appearance to a whole new level, setting it apart from its stock counterparts.
An Unfinished Marvel: Work in Progress
Regrettably, due to minor issues with the clutch, the truck isn’t currently ready to be showcased in action. However, the builder couldn’t resist giving us a glimpse of this remarkable creation. Though still a work in progress, the dedication and effort poured into this project are self-evident. The truck’s transformation serves as a testament to the builder’s passion and skills, leaving us eagerly awaiting the completion of this extraordinary journey.
In conclusion, the customized truck featured in this article is a true marvel, showcasing the endless possibilities of vehicle customization. From preserving the stock components to creating room for a more powerful engine, the builder’s attention to detail is commendable. Although a work in progress, this truck embodies the dedication and craftsmanship of its creator. If you’re as captivated by this remarkable vehicle as I am, make sure to subscribe for updates and stay tuned for the follow-up video. Additionally, don’t forget to check out the builder’s YouTube channel for more of their incredible work. Together, let’s celebrate the artistry and passion behind automotive customization.
The Power of Collaboration: Recognizing the Contributions
Collaboration is a quintessential ingredient for success in any project. As the saying goes, “Teamwork makes the dream work.” In the world of video creation, this statement holds more relevance than ever before. Every video is a result of the collective efforts of numerous individuals who come together, each contributing their unique skills and expertise. It is crucial to acknowledge and show gratitude towards the people who have made a significant impact on the project’s success. Therefore, in this article, we express our heartfelt appreciation to everyone who played a role in this endeavor.
An Interactive Video: A Result of Collective Effort
The video we present here is more than just a culmination of creative visuals and engaging content. It is a testament to the power of collaboration. From conception to execution, this project involved a dynamic team of professionals who brought their passion and expertise to the table. Each person played a crucial role in crafting a video that captivates and resonates with the intended audience.
Recognizing the Contributors
We would like to take this moment to express our sincere gratitude to everyone who contributed to this video project. It is through their dedication and hard work that we were able to create something truly remarkable. Here, we acknowledge the contributions of the following individuals:
1. Creative Directors: The visionary minds behind the concept and overall direction of the video. Their ability to think outside the box and translate ideas into visuals served as the foundation for this project’s success.
2. Scriptwriters: The storytellers who brought life to the video through their compelling narrative and well-crafted script. Their words gave shape and meaning to the visuals, ensuring the message reaches the audience effectively.
3. Videographers and Editors: The talented individuals who captured the essence of each scene and meticulously crafted the final video. Their technical expertise and artistic flair added depth and impact to the project.
4. Sound Designers: The unsung heroes who created the perfect audio backdrop for the video. Through their skills in sound mixing and editing, they enhanced the viewers’ experience by creating a seamless auditory journey.
A Thank You to All Collaborators
Beyond the specific roles mentioned above, we would like to extend our gratitude to everyone involved in this project. From production assistants to graphic designers, from voice-over artists to marketing strategists, each person’s contribution has been invaluable. It is through their collective efforts that this video came to fruition – a video that we are proud to share with the world.
Conclusion
I hope you have enjoyed getting a glimpse into this special project. The LMT
Designing and customizing an RC truck is a fun and creative way to make it stand out from the rest. By choosing a color scheme that appeals to you and incorporating logos and decals that represent your interests, you can create a visually pleasing and unique design. Don’t forget to consider the tires and their aesthetics, as well as any additional elements that add depth and character to the overall look. Remember, the body may be the first thing people see, but it’s the hidden details and surprises underneath that truly make it special.
In the journey of transforming this twin engine into a masterpiece, I had to overcome numerous challenges and make significant modifications. The redesigned intake now features an efficient air cleaner setup, while the simplified carburetion process ensures optimal fuel delivery. By infusing the engine with my own innovations and upgrading its electronics, I have crafted a unique and high-performing machine. This project not only showcases the power of design and engineering but also emphasizes the limitless possibilities for innovation and customization within the realm of engines.
Collaboration lays the groundwork for success in any endeavor. This video project stands as a testament to the power of bringing together talented individuals, each offering their unique skills and expertise. We express our deepest gratitude to everyone who played a part in making this video a reality. Their contributions have not gone unnoticed, and we look forward to future collaborations that continue to push the boundaries of creativity and excellence.