Feeling nostalgic

[RossB]

After I cut the tube to a length that I found suitable, I mocked it up with the end caps and the fill nozzle.



Then some test fitting...

 

[RossB]

This thing weighs a ton! 1/8" wall thickness will make this the most indestructible part of the bike. I used the lathe to clamp the end cap in place for cutting the filler hole.


The cutter walked around a bit, but I can still make it work.

 

[RossB]

Time to make something that requires lots of grinding...


I welded on the filler nozzle and polished things up a bit.


A couple tack welds just to hold things together...

 

[RossB]

Weld, weld, weld...grind, grind, grind!


Added a petcock bung on the bottom and made a mounting bung on the top.



Then I leak tested it by filling it with alcohol.

 

[RossB]

The frame wasn't designed with a tank in mind so I had to add a mounting tab.


Time for more ugly welds...

 

[RossB]

All of this time, I've been debating about which color to apply. It was time to pull the trigger. I liked the white, but I went a little flashier.

 

[RossB]

Time for assembly. That seat is junk though. I want something a little more distinctive.


I've had this thing since I was 8 years old! I feel like I've hardly aged a bit.

 

[RossB]

Since this is a machining forum, it's only appropriate that I show you a part that I actually machined. Here it is!
Pretty impressive...right?

And it fit perfectly!

 

[RossB]

Back to the seat. I have a buddy in Arkansas who owns an upholstery shop so I made a seat pan.


I sent him the pan last Friday with strict instructions to do whatever he wants...as long as its black and orange. It arrived at his shop yesterday and he texted me these pics today...

 

[eugene13]

Great job, bringing an old toy back to life.