Manky Monkey Motors

Hiya,
Bin told this is a good place to find out about reliant engines and mods. I'm building a reliant engined trike so may need a bit of advice now and then
Ride safe...or drive if you have to

Gary

Hiya Gary. Welcome to our little world! Happy to help wherever we can. Got any piccies of your build?

Hi,
Yes I have loads of piccys.
The build is actually the subject of a thread on the NABD website. here http://forum.disabledbiker.co.uk/viewtopic.php?t=1112 .

Once I figure out how to post piccys here I'll put some on.

Cheers for the welcome.

Gary

Click on "Additional Options", then "Browse", select the piccie from your files then click "post". Maximum of 2 photos per reply, no bigger than about 700 x 700. You have to write something in the reply box though, even if it's just a full stop.
Or you could go to tinypic.com, upload your picture there, then cut & paste the URL in the reply box.

It looks like this at the mo, needs a paint.

Laters ;)

Ahh, that rings a bell. Isn't that one of those Ebay frames?

Hi Gary, nice to see you venturing into the madness of the Manky Monkey Motors!

Some of it is, the axle mounts were rubbish and the frame was out of whack.
Me and a very clever mate called Paul have fixed it now.
It was so bent the wheel center on the right was over an inch in front of the left.

We put it on a jig and rebuilt most of it so stricly speaking it isn't really one of those ebay frames.

I'd not suggest anyone bought one. I don't think it was worth 500 quid at all.

Ya live and learn I suppose. It was easier to sort than to try to get it fixed by them or get a refund. I didn't fancy driving all the way to Loughborough again either.

Hiya Bobbi, you on here too then ;)

Yep, I don't build things but I'm quite good at being rude to everyone!

She's always rude to me -I think she's just trying to hide her true feelings for me though. ;)

Bobbi ....rude? NAAAAH mate ..only to those she's got time for.

Anyone who gives their time up to do stuff for the NABD is alright in my book





That'll be a tenner Bobbi ;) ;D

The trike is in bits for painting.
Busy ,busy busy ;)

The tank and other bits have gone to the painters.

The frame is still being ground and filed to make it smooth for powdercoating.

We are also starting to recondition all the other bits for when we start to put it back together.

Later

Gary

A neighbour of mine has just saved me a load of bother.
He works for a metalwork company and he is taking the frame to work.

He is going to fill some of the joints with weld and then grind them back with a nice thick profile. They do decrotive ironwork and he's brilliant with a welder and flexi disc.
It'll look like the joints are bogged in but we'll be able to powdercoat the frame which I think will last longer than paint.

Leaves me loads of time to do the engine and bits that need a refinish.

Just occasionally things do go my way.

Laters

Gary

That's handy.
I do the same thing but have to do mine with a flexi disc, followed by a hand file. A back breaking job but worth it in the long run. Filler always seems to crack eventually.

If I was going to paint it I'd have bogged the joints as it's easier to sand bog than grind steel. I recon the powder would be better so it's welding , grinding and filing. :'(.................my poor hands and fingers are taking a pounding but it should be worth the effort. ;)

Take care

Gary

Believe me, I know just how you feel mate!  :(

Some of the paint is back already,

It cost me a dozen cans of "Boddies", It has radar reflecting undercoat and the black is some sort of polyurethane that they use on aircraft.
It's rated to over 500 mph.
I might be needing a bit more oomph from the engine ;) ;D

Laters

Gary

Bet Mrs TT loves trike bits on the bed - or does she sleep in another room so you can share with the trike?   ;D

Gotta get your priorities right -bike bits first, (Manky, single bloke).
So it's a stealth trike then.

Well some of the bits are ;D

Hey TT are you going to get yourself sprayed as well? ;D

Spayed!! I hope not mate, I prefer my bits where they are and not in a frying pan ;)

Ive had a tit full of this bloody build................................

Once again I have been let down by someone offering to do work on the trike and then giving me piss poor excuses.

I now have to find someone else to do the welding and grinding because my neighbour has promised to do some work on the trike and then come up with an excuse not to do it.

I can't weld very well and the frame is only partly welded. I can cope with the grinding and filing but I can't lay the weld down without blowing holes or it looking like a large goose has shat on it.

I could ask Paul the guy who helped me to modify and build the trike in the first place but he has already gone above and beyond on this build.

Anyone want a part built with s**tty welding?

Woah! Calm down! Shut the garage door & walk away for a couple of days. Enjoy your Christmas then come back to it when you're in a happier frame of mind. Would be a shame to give up now when you're so close.
How about nipping into your local tech college & having a word with the guys who teach welding or mechanics? Maybe they'd weld it up for you & teach you how to weld at the same time.
Where abouts in the country are you? Toad's down on the South coast & I'm in Hampshire. If you're really stuck I'm sure we can sort something out.
Don't despair mate. ;)

What he said.
Enjoy your christmas and go back to it in the new year.
If you were anywhere near Cardiff I'd say bring it here and I would run some welds over it for you, just give me a box of rods and I'm happy.

what they said! if ya wanna bring it down here i,ll do it for ya. i know its a longway but i can put ya up overnight!! cheers toad!

See, told you! We've all been there matey. Some of us more often than others!  ;)

Cheers,

I was having a really bad day yesterday and one more let down just pushed me over the edge.
I was home alone and needed to let off steam so the PC and sadly you lot copped for some frustrated typing.

I have had a cig and a brew and decided to keep trying the welding myself. Unless of course some kind hearted soul living near Manchester can help.

It's been a tough 18 months with doing Pauls trike rebuild last winter, Then Paul and I reconditioned Ricks trike in secret to surprise him at the NABD rally. We were pressed for time as well with only getting hold of the trike at such short notice.
Then straight into this build with all the problems we've had. Yesterday I hit "FULL" and went off.

Onwards and upwards

Later and thanks

Gary

Yeah, just keep plugging away at it & you'll get there in the end mate.
I know just how you feel though. I've been virtually living in Ska Man's garage at the bottom of his garden for the last couple of years now. Some days I actually spend longer there than I do at home. When people come to visit they go there rather than my flat. Thanks by the way, Mr Ska. I do appreciate the use of your facilities.  ;)
Sometimes though, I just get really bogged down in it all. I look at the half built trike & think I'm just getting nowhere & it'll never be done. As Ska Man pointed out the other day though, in the time I've been working on mine, we've pushed out 5 others -his own, Flap's, Simon's, Rainbow's, Critch's & part of Toad's. That works out to one every 6 months or so, although actually they've all been going on at the same time, so we ain't done too badly really. No wonder mine's not finished!   

Well folks it's official.......I hate welding :(

It's taking loads of time patience and welding rods, all of which are in short supply at my house at the moment ::)

Ask Santa for a MIG welder for Christmas. ;)

Only if it comes with a manual.... or a "manuel". Basil Faulty had a "Manuel" to do all the shiity jobs and I deserve the same. ;) ;)

Seriously though, If I had the money it'd be right up there with the rest of me Xmas wish list

Dear Santa
Please can I have a winning lottery ticket
A blowjob
New liver
Peace on earth
some "pie"
A dayglo bong with unlimited supply
Free lunch (fer the munchies)
06/07 GSXR 750 ( the most iconic sportsbike evah!!)
A "Hind D" helicopter
seat on the space shuttle
Mecchano set
a pet rat
free pass to kentucky fried
the ability to kill with one look
new power ranger suit.( mi old one is shrunk)
did I mention peace on earth
a heated garage
new kidneys to compliment the new liver
my girls playing footy fer the England womens team
A new walking stick( old one bent due to hitting annoying barstewards)

someone to do mi weldin'
And oh yeah !!...........A mig welder with operator

I have been a good lad and help old ladies cross the road

Laters

Gary

Bugger. Now I'm gonna spend all evening trying to compile my own Want List.
I disagree with your choice of bike though Sir. Surely, it has to be the 2000 model Triumph Speed Triple, in roulette green? See the Motors, 2 wheels section for mine. Kermit the Thug, oh how I miss you.  :(

Truth is MM I have always been a fan of the hinckley made triple, Sadly the only triple I ever owned was a total disaster of a trike powered by a 750 XS engine that I was glad to see the back of.

It was horrendous and the only good thing to come from owning it was my decision to build a reliant engined one.
The one I am having all the trouble with.

I have a big thing for GSXR's .even my crappy old 93 fighter.
Still got all the original bodywork as fightering it was more by design than crashing it.

Laters

Gary

I've owned a couple of XS750s & thought they were pretty cool bikes. Had a tendency to rattle but nice solid workhorses. Triker Taz has got one -not your old one is it?! I built this one for an old girlfriend but she prefferred my standard XS850 so we did a swap.

I saw this trike on the BTW US forum.
 I don't usually go for expensive kit trikes, but I think it is a good mix of style and enough power to enjoy your self with.
As for welders, a big mobile site arc jobbie would suit me.

That's interesting. I think I'd prefer it with shorter forks though, & lose the top box.

I like the look in general but not the 'bodywork' effect at the rear, I think it unbalances the whole look - long front, lumpy back.

Like it can;'t make up its mind whether it's a trike or a car...

Soooooo you wouldnt want it a a gift. hhmmmppphh and there was me gonna buy it for you as a christmas pressie ;) :D ;D ::)

No mine went to a mates, it fell to bits when he cut the frame to change it slightly, the rust gremlins had had a field day with the down tubes and bottom rails.
I suppose it was a good thing he tried to mod it before he rode it.
He's already in a wheel chair so having a trike self destruct on him could really have spoiled his day.

The engine and axle will be used to sort another ride out when he gets time.

I recon I'll have a rest and hope the fat barsteward in the red suit gets at least part way down my wish list.

I'm still thinking about my list! Taking an evening off from triketeering cos I'm utterly knackered. Hung up my Postie boots for a couple of days so time for a well earned rest.
You're right about the trike Bobbi. The back end looks like the front end of a car to me. Shorter forks, no topbox & maybe some sort of bodywork/bellypan around the engine or front down tubes to balance it up a bit?

No I like the forks, lose the back end and put some ordinary mudguards on it.



Oh well, now you come to mention it.......   I could live with it!  I know a bloke who could mod it for me!

What engine is that anyway?  Looks a bit like a Goldwing?

Looks like it. What was the big U.S type cruiser thing they did based on the 'Wing? The Valkyrie? Toad will know, he used to have a supercharged triked 'Wing.
O.K, lose the back end then, but still shorten those forks & drop the frame down so it sits level to the road. That'd vastly improve the handling & the looks, though I don't suppose cornering's too much of a priority on Yankee roads.   

I think it has one of those big all singing full IRS jobbies, by Lehman or someone similar underneath which is very ugly and needs to be covered up.

I really like the Grinnall trikes. They do a very tidy conversion based on a BMW cruiser.

http://www.grinnallcars.com/content/home/home.html

I prefer a minimalist look. I have tried very hard to avoid making ours too"Busy" on the eye.

I hope it looks the part when it's done, I really did try to keep an older look to it. Wendy is into slightly more retro stuff than my sportsbike loving self and I don't want to dissapoint her.

She puts up with a lot of BS with me and my disability from time to time and the trike is my way of saying thanks.

I don't like the look of the IRS rear ends either - too busy!  And I've seen some discussion about whether in fact it's not a good idea for trikes.  I've got all the comfort I need on Gertie just using the original twin shocks.

Yes the Valkyrie is more or less an undressed Wing.

I've never built a trike with suspension. Mine have all been hardtails, just cos they're simpler & I prefer the look of 'em. The only suspended trike I've ridden on was Jacko's VDub &, to be honest, I can't say it made much difference to the handling or comfort. Mind you, it was the standard car setup so probably not enough weight on it, (even with me aboard), for it to perform as VW intended.

I have never built one with suspension either. Always kept it simple.

Non hardtailers always think they must be really uncomfortable but I've never had a problem with them -maybe I'm just well padded.

When I got my bike converted I only knew one bloke with a trike and he said he wished he'd had suspension cos he'd travel a lot further on it - he reckoned 100 miles was about his limit.

Most I've done is 279 miles but that was deffo too much, took me a fortnight to get over it - but that was mostly cos of the arthritis and the fact that with a bog-standard bike front end riding is hard work compared to a bike.

Furthest I've been in a day was Ely in Cambridgeshire & back for the Trikes R Us do. I usually stop every 100 miles to fill up & stretch my legs for 5 minutes. I love travelling, but find motorways as boring as hell & riding on A roads limits how far you can go in a day. Can't wait to get out on the trike in the Spring.

I have spent the day cleaning the garage and tidying the tools away.
This means I can get an early start tomorrow making more mess and leaving stuff lying about.

I had a few days to rest my back and legs.It's a bugger being bent over or knelt down to try and finish the welding. I feel a little better so will be getting a bit more done.
I'm just waiting for Toad and Foxhound to send the bits they have sorted for me and then it'll be onwards and upwards.

More tomorrow.

Later all
Gary

Yo TT, get you ass round to local hospital maintenance dept, ive just picked up a rise and fall hospital bed. chopped the top off and welded on a workbench.....magic

I've been offered a bike lift, I need to sort a leak on the hydraulics but it should work just fine.
Just got to find a few of my mates who are fit enough  to lift it into the trailer who aren't suffering from the effects of over indulgence over the last day or two.

I can clamp the front wheel in and tack some box section to the back to carry the axle.

That should help my knees and back but I doubt it'll improve my welding at all ;)

I hate cold steel buildings.

Not a lot is going on in the shed with the build. Despite running two heaters I can't concentrate on the welding, It's just too damn cold.
I'm waiting on a few bits that may need refinishing so I might get a bit of work done indoors where it's warm.

I might try to insulate the shed next summer but I can't afford it at the minute :(

I'd thought about bringing the engine indoors but like my home situation so am not going to push my luck. 

Some more if it happens later.

Regards

Gary

thats based on a valkyrie the 1500 wing has two carbs not six! as for that trike i,ve never seen that kit before not sure who made that one?????????/

You thinking of the Honda Rune, Manky?

The honda ruin....It'll ruin ya trying to afford one

hi tt wher abouts are you; if yuor still struggling with the welding , i'm south of stockport might be able to help ;D ;D

I live in ashton under lyne, its about 9 miles from stockport.

Cheers for the offer. any help with welding would be much appreciated.

Regards

Gary

hi tt private mail me yuor post code+phone no then i can look up your adress om street map uk will then ring you and sort out a day to do some welding ;D ;D

I took Bobcat up to the Dragon last year, around 325 miles there, only made it as far as Shrewsbury on the way back before the primary chain snapped :'( :'( but I didn't find it any more uncomfortable than a swing arm bike, my bum still gets numb around the 75 mile mark on either which is OK on Bobcat as that is when I need to pull in for fuel.

Hi Spanners,
You have a PM.
Cheers

Gary

right tt got me map know where you live not far from my sisters.  will ring you later co's i'll have to go and get something done before i waste to much time on this computer ;D

I prefer hardtails to sprung bikes, apart from maybe super sensitive sports bikes. I find they give me a better feel for the road conditions. My numb bum limit's around the 100 mile mark -must have a better padded bum than you Shaun!

Mine goes completely numb after about 50 miles or so. The seatpad on the GSXR wasn't much cop to start with. 13 years of bums on it hasn't helped either. It's that thin it may as well not be there at all. I'm going to have it sorted this year. Just got to do the trike first though.


now where was I ...OH yeah! hammer, check!....saw.............. ::)

Stormiest day of the year.. back in the shed with butty box and a flask.

I'm taking my cig tin too just in case I lose the will to live.
I'm doing some cleaning on the engine and will probacly smoothwrite the axle if I can get it warm enough ;)

More as it transpires ;D

Best stuff we've found for axles so far is black chassis paint from Frost Auto Restoration. Much thicker than Hammerite & dries to a nice smooth finish.

Cheers Mankey.

I only wish you'd told me this a few hours ago as opposed to after I had been in the shed.

Good news is the gearbox is off the engine and we have started to tidy it up.

The axle is now a nice shade of red oxide and with a bit of luck will be finished tomorrow.

Later

Gary

Nice to meet you and Jane today Spanners.

Cheers for coming over to see the trike.
I know there wasn't too much to see with it being stripped down but what did you think of the frame?

I got a bit more paint on the axle and it should be completely refurbished this week

More as it happens.

Regards

Gary

hi tt frame's alright now,  but knowing what youv'e had to do to put it straight i would not recomend one to anyone who has'nt got welding skills
 (you need them to put the makers mistake's right ) nice ride home,,,6hr's
 to do 16 miles,,,bloody snow  :o :o ;D

Glad you got back ok spanners.

The weather turned bad really quickly yesterday.  Let me know next time you are on the way over so I can get all the bits out of the shed for you.
Take it easy.
Regards

Gary

Doin some cleaning today, I'm a bit too sore for any grinding or heavy stuff.

Got the unleaded out and trying to get most of the grime off the gearbox.
If I ever build another I wont use the engine and box I intend to use in the trike for mocking up. The engine and box are well nasty cos of oil and grinding dust and all the other crap that we dropped all over it during the build.


If it warms up I'm going to jetwash it all too and then wipe it all down with some thinners so its ready for some paint.

More later

Gary

never been a big fan of washing parts in petrol, comes from being a smoker I guess. Trust your Uncle Ainsley, Fairy Power Spray, designed for shifting grease and baked on stuff, sound familiar ? really works too. There is a cheaper version we found in Lidel's that also worked OK

Cheers Brock,

I was going to use some soap at the later stages of the clean.
It had some really sticky greasy muck on it , as does the engine.
Both are being cleaned so they can be painted.
 
I only used the unleaded because I had a bit in a can. Saved me having to go and get some gunk. I normally use gunk for most of my cleaning.

I'm doing jobs like this and doing some refurb on some bits while I wait for the frame to get done. Once its welded and painted I think I can have it built back up in a couple of days.

The only thing I havent got sorted out is the bars, I need to get a set with a 14" reach but not too wide.

Right then I am in possesion of a mig welder thingy

It has one of those little gas bottles that you dispose of in a sensible manner after 10 minutes of use.

Can I retro fit a bigger bottle and gauges so I'm not off too BOC every 5 minutes?

I also need a bit of advice on setting it up etc, Can do a bit of arc welding but the standard is poor.

Cheers

Gary

Yup, any decent weldiing supplies shop will flog you a set of guages. Mine were actually a birthday pressie from Brock one year, but I think they'll set you back about 50 quid. Mine have a 1/4" bore pipe that steps down through an adaptor to the micro bore used on the actual machine. There's a push fit connector between the 2 so I can easily unplug the line to move the welder about, without having to drag the bottle along at the same time. A sensible first welding project would be a small wheeled trolley for the welder, with room on it to strap the bottle. Mine was nicked with my first welder years ago & I've never gotten round to making another.
Flap's got an account with the local BOC supplier. We use an "X" size bottle of Argonshield. Obviously you don't want to waste gas so set the guage for the minimum level you can. Too little & the weld will be porous -full of little air bubbles like an Aero bar, & very splattery. Too much gas will show as a film of white dust on the metal. Actual welder settings will depend on what you're welding & what controls are on your machine.

Still trying to figure it all out ::)

When I bought my first MIG I just kept playing till it seemed right. Flap & I did a 12 week evening class course at the local tech college a couple of years ago though. Very informative. Cost about 65 quid. I'd been doing it right, by trial & error, but nice to have it confirmed by a professional. If you can afford it, it's worth doing.

I'm gonna do that when I retire!  Not sure what for but I've wanted to learn to weld for years!

Evening classes are brill. All sorts of skills out there to learn if you look for them.

I bloody hate welding, the bloke who invented welding, the reason for welding, welding suppliers, trike building and everything else to do with bloody welding. >:(

I have a burnt palm, Slag in the eye from the chipping hammer, a sore back, sore legs, knees, elbow and some other welding induced aches and pains. ::) >:(

I should write a bloody book on how not to go about building a trike. How not to wind up buying a lemon of a frame and how not to get in soooooooooo far over your head you need to stand on a lemon crate just to keep your nostrils above the s**te. ::) ::)

I had to use the stick set cos i can't afford to get the bits I need for the mig. As soon as I save a bit of dosh the mig is getting sorted out and I am going to practice until I can do a decent weld.

Iv'e blown two holes in tubes today and am well fed up, This bloody trike is putting me right off building stuff and Iv'e just got myself another reliant ??? to deal with. I was going to finish this and then get into sorting the other reliant into a trike.
I was going to try build my own frame too instead of relying on someone else and have to redo most of it anyway.

As you can probably tell I am not a happy chap at the moment, I really wish I'd paid more attention when I had the chance to learn to weld years ago.

In a mood in the shed welding and grinding :( :(

Hang in there mate. We've all been there I assure you.  ;)

Right then, all the welding problems have gone away to plague some other poor sod and I'm prepping for paint.

Bit of bog and black board paint should balls everything up quiet nicely.

Happy dayz ;D

Just run out of welding gas & wire so I'm off to the suppliers for a refill. Thankfully the account's in Flap's name!  :D

Right, I replaced the empty welding gas bottle yesterday so picked up a price list.
We use an "X" sized bottle of Argonshield Light, (about 4 feet tall by 6 inches diameter). That costs £23.95 to exchange for a full bottle & £44.05 per year for the account & bottle rental. A bottle usually lasts us a couple of months & we get a bill through the post so don't have to pay in cash when we exchange the bottles -handy cos we're always skint.

But the bill goes to Flap.  :o

blimy thats cheap manky we are charged about £55 a year rental an about £26- £27 fer a refill of argon mix wi energas am i paying too much? :( :( :(

Possibly. We use Hampshire Bolt & Tool here in Basingstoke -the local BOC supplier. The bill comes direct from BOC though so Id've thought it'd be the same cost everywhere. They also deal with the welding wire but I haven't got a record of the cost of that. We buy 5 kilo reels of 0.8mm mild steel wire.

hmm i will have to look into this bottle rental price ,we get our full size reels for about £12 -£14 which is cheap compaired to some other outlets, but a few quid saved here and there is not bad, as my sons are often reluctant to part with cash when its rental renewal time >:(so dad has to pay :o ,soft touch or what.

 :D
We live on budgets counted in pennies round here, so a few quid saved makes a big difference.
Right, I'm off to the garage -should've been there hours ago.

5 kilo reels of wire are about 15quid when I got one the other week.

Got a bit done yesterday, the frame is coming along and will be a nice shiny black soon. ;D ;)

Got a lot done today on the frame, The bogging is coming along nicely and the frame will be ready for paint by the end of next week.


I also have the new handlebars on order and a new front light.

I only need to make a couple of templates up for the trim in the rear rack and then I can have them cut.

More later.  ;D ;) 

I'm impressed! I'll be lucky if my frame's ready for powder-coating by late next week & I've been working on it on & off for months.

will try to call and have a look tommorrow(sun) if its alright with you :)

Yeah, no problem Mike, I'll be around all day.

Later

Gary

sorry i didn't make it today,  events went arse about face, then i ran out of time ;) ;)

give me a bell tommorrow

                        cheers

The frame is starting to look something like. I have also etch primed the diff for painting and the axle will be shiny black this time tomorrow.

It might take a bit longer bogging and sanding but it should look cool, I just hope the bog stays put so I don't have to do it all again next winter  ;D ;)

The main reason for doing mine in solid weld rather than filler. Didn't want it all falling out again or cracking.

i can see the theory in your madness manky plenty of weld and extra work now and then no maintanence later , like burnt paint work with having to repair a cracked  :o :o weld ;D ;D ;D

I wanted to do that but all the trauma of getting it welded up properly finally caved my head in. I gave up and resorted to bog.
I'm getting some welding lessons before my next project( yes folks there will be another) and then I'll do it properly.

More grief as it occurs ;)

I'm never going to file another weld down as long as I live.
Getting absolutely nowhere & fast running out of time. Got to have my damn trike finished, registered & running by the end of April for the MonkeyNuts Run.
Spent this afternoon smoothing a joint between two tubes. An area about an inch square. 3 hours. Jeez I hate filing.

This may be a silly question but can't you do it with some kind of power tool?

That confused me. Your question came up as the first post on a new page & I thought it was a new thread. Wondered what you thought you could do with a power tool!
Yes, I'm sure you can Bobbi, but I don't own one. There are narrow belt sanders that might work but not sure if the emery paper on them would be tough enough to sand down the MIG welds. I also seem to have created a lot of multiple curves, where tubes & gussets meet at all sorts of angles, that'd be difficult to reach with a machine.
It's getting there, but agonisingly slowly.
Plus of course, by the time I get to the garage mid afternoon, I've already worked a full 8 hour shift. I'm then putting in anything up to another 7 hours in the garage so I'm cold, knackered & pretty p**d off with it by the time I wearily make my way home again.

I did spend most of Monday helping you  ;D Well trying to and yup it is a long and tedious job but it will be worth it in the end  ;D

AWWWWWWWW, looks like the mankmeister needs some fluffy hugs, come on let's applaude MM. All that work and running the site too. But ain't we so nice that we're worth it, and won't the trike be so nice that it'll be worth it too. :)
I applaude you sir.

Why thank you. That makes it all worthwhile  ;D
Actually, it's the magnificent Mr Yoda who runs the site. I'd love to be able to, but I'm just too stoopid I'm afraid. So he does the techy bits on my behalf. Thanks Yodles.
The trike won't be anything spectacularly unusual, just, (hopefully), useable as everyday transport, but will be tidy. I know though, that if I don't get it right now, I'm gonna be riding it looking at all the bits I skimped on & wishing I'd taken that little extra time to do it properly.
Yeah, of course you're worth it!  :D

Hi Andy sorry I have not been in the garage for the last few day's, just off to do some more filing now, will you be over later.

Think he's on his way very shortly  ;D ;D

 ;D I never expect you to help out matey -but do appreciate it.
Hoping to take some parts to the coaters -gearstick, front guard, battery box etc, to be done in black. It'll get things underway & also I can order the green powder for the frame while I'm there. I've got the code number for it from the guys who coated my last trike. Yup, see you soon.  

Sorry I thought you had gone  :-[

My apologies to Yoda, I thought that MM ran the site as he is an administrator. BUT MM you do sort out the merchandise, so you do what you are clearly good at as does Yoda. Yoda deserves some fluffy hugs too then, in a manly sort of way ;D ;D

Meanwhile back in my garage the paint job nears completion ;D ;)

I do actually own the site. I'm just not very good with pooters so Yoda does the clever bits. He also created sites for Desperate Dan, Brit Chopper (I think), JW Motorcycles (Dracken's business), Destiny Cycles & his wife's flower shop, plus numerous others.

And don't forget, Mylord Yoda has his own site, Bikerlifstyle.

Loads of paint flying about today, well more to the point....... smoothright flying about.

Cheap and cheerful smooth black for the axle, diff , frame, engine and gearbox.

The only hard bit was not gassing myself with the etch primer in my garage with only an unfed mask keeping all the lovely poisons out of my system.  :P

The frame will be done and clearcoated too by tomorrow evening, then its the engine and box after a good clean.

More as the traumas unfold  ;D ;)

Im sat here waiting for something to go wrong.

It's moving on nicely and I'll be prepping the engine and box for paint tomorrow.

Red engine and box or black?. Can't make my mind up and Wendy isn't sure either.   

The frame and body bits are black so I thought red might break it up a bit?
 ;) ;D

Black or silver I'd say.  Difficult to give an opinion without seeing it but red could lok a bit tacky?

I think bikergran is right!
How about doing the engine and box in a satin black with a few polished bits to break it up?

Oh do stop your moaning boy   ::) ;D ;)   I remember the days when we needed to smooth down welds, we would have to go down the field and dig up a "flint" to hack away any unwanted welds......wew soon learned how to weld better. heheheheheheheeeeee ;D
Yes Andy its a bloody tedious job but some of us havent got the patience that you have. I keep promising myself that my next trike will have all smooth welds...but then again I'd rather be riding than filing  ;D ;D ;D ;D 8)

So would I.  :(

Whats up with the precision tool known as an angle grinder ;D

Not precision enough.

red because if it is all black nothing will stand out

               thanks jane,peter

I quite agree, just having a bit of fun ;D

Black it is then ::)

Yup you can't fail with Black  ;D

is black the new white?????????? :D

Last year grey was the new black. Now I'm confused.

red because its best colour all black is sad ;D :)

there,s nowt  wrong wi black, i dress in all black ,all the time 8) 8) ;)

Karma is now -64, that must be a record!

and i reckon it,ll never be beaten!! ;D

The gearbox is a nice satin black with a red clutch lever poking out of the left side.  ;D ;D

Why the left? 'Cos we swapped it round to avoid using a cable  ??? ;)

We start cleaning the engine today after football   >:(

The frame looks very tasty too, the axle is back in and the yokes go in this afternoon. The front wheel is being stripped and repainted so as soon as its done the trike will be back on three wheels and ready to fit the engine  ;D ;)

My framework is going to be black too, coz black is ace.  Not sure if I should do the tank Burgundy, but don't think I will, the jury is still out on that one.

How about some piccies of your handiwork then guys?

Okey dokey then, a few pics.

(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/frame%20black2.jpg) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-915)

(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/frame%20black%201.jpg) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-917)

(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/box%201.jpg) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-916)

(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/yoke%20and%20box.jpg) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-918)

Still a lot to do but it's coming together now ;D ;)

hi, this is spanner's nephew, ive just hijacked his user name while he's gone for a brew. ha. how did you upload you're pic's to the forum, i tried earlier today, but strugled with the size of file the image's are. cheers.

I used a photo edit program and uploaded them at 500 pixels wide to the NABD photo album and then just pasted them over here.

No idea how it all worked myself to be honest. If it ain't got a throttle or you can't kick it ,I don't get it. ;D ;)

Hee's a couple of pics of the trikes for you delectation ;D
I's been a busy boy ;D ;D ;D

Is that all 40mm box on the last one?

Hi Doug, how's it hangin' ;D
50mm 4mm wall except where the shocks mount that's 25x50x4mm.

The boom going out to the front is made up of two sections. Lower is 75mmx50mmx3xmm the upper is 50mmx50mmx4mm. The sections are welder together. ;D

Nice and solid then. Brill.
I am going to make a DD, Mantis-type front end for my Subaru build.
I wanted to design my own, but after talking to Chris he said he did'nt mind if I used his.

Just about ready to drop it onto 3 wheels again, we just have to polish the fork legs and tidy up the front wheel.

The gearbox is done and when the engine is  painted they'll be bolted together and very carefully slotted into the frame. From there on in it's a doddle because it's just like a kit build now. ;D

Some piccys when we get a bit more done ;)

Hi Doug, you'll have to excuse my ignorance on this one but what is a DD Mantis fork? :-[ Any pics please? What design are you using?
Thanks
Soon be on the road then TT, sooner than mine methinks :)
K

DD = Desperate Dan. Chris Ireland of Great Yarmouth. Legendary trike builder, now retired & heading the Brit Chopper magazine team. he calls in here occasionally. Known for big V8 & V12 trikes, as well as his Preying Mantis VWs.
Check his site here:

http://www.chrisireland.co.uk/Intro.html

Sorry mate. I have just got back to this.
Below is a not very good pic of a Mantis frame. Lower rails are heavy duty box and I think the top ones are 25mm box.

Here's Jacko on his, with his daughter Janie_Postie riding pillion on the 2006 Dr Barnados toy run.

Now thats a lot better pic.

There's also a shot of Jacko on the Merchandise Page of the main site, aboard his trike, wearing a black MMMotors T shirt.
-Subtle advertising eh?!

Is he on commision?

No he's on a VW.
Here he is winning Best trike at the 2006 Berkshire Triumph Owners Show.

Any idea where I could get a pair of them big wheels like the ones he has fitted?

The wheels are called prolines. centrelines with holes in 'em. You can get them from most of the Vw accessories shops, or try midland wheel supplies. North hants tyres do them as well I think. hope that helps.

I have mounted the lats in the rear rack, I just have to paint them and then they bolt into the gaps in the rack.
I will take some piccys after and post them as soon as I get some time to edit them.

More after. ;) ;)

Laters

Thanks. Will have a look.

Some more piccys

(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/rack1.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-923)


(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/rack2.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-922)

Just have to paint the timber, probably black ;D ;)

I think I'd varnish them, maybe a dark antique pine or oak, & make a feature of them. Nice metalwork around them.

Nice work TT, yep, think i'd varnish them too.
Thanks for the pics and the info, Doug and Andy, I've heard of DD, but did'nt know what a mantis was. I do now, It's very,very NICE., long, low and sleek, bit like me really ;D

No worry. Its nice to be able to share the small amount of knowledge I have.

This net thing is funny, as I have never met Chris Ireland personally, but had read about him in BSH since the first one.
I sent him a letter about hardtailed trikes when he had his couple of pages in the mag, and it is very wierd actually to be on the same couple of forums as him now.

I can't varnish them,  some silly bugger decided to cover the bolt heads with filler, I might stain them mahogany or something dark like that, that should hide the filler.

It's coming together nicely now.

Jet wash time for the engine tomorrow. ;)

Going to re-assemble the brake plates tomorrow while Mick gets to making the fork legs shiny.

The frame is just drying and hardning for a few days before we start to refit all the parts. 

Pics as we progress ;D ;)

More pics please -& a write up when it's done.
Should've cut some plugs to fill the screw heads from the same wood as the slats, (my brother's a carpenter!).

The rack in red    :o :o :o


(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/red%20rack%201.jpg) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-925)

 

more as I mess it up

                          hi nice to see some red
                           
                                     jane  ;D :)
                        

hhhmmm usually the only red you can see in my workshop is a "mist" with aspanner flying out of it, hehehehehe
or the blood from grazed knuckles ::) ;D ;D ;D

Brake plates all sorted and back down on the back wheels. The battery cradle is bolted back in and the hand brake is all sorted too.

The engine is clean and having a few new gaskets before we wave the paint at it.

I have also painted the electrics box and that will be in tomorrow afternoon.


Some piccys later if I get time ;D ;)

Once more into the breach......... loads to do and not enough time or money ::) ::)

It will be done for the NABD rally if things keep going as they are but it's the wait for the inspection thats bothering me. I heard our local office was booked up for a couple of weeks and you cant book the inspection until the build is complete.

More on registering a trike built for use by a disabled rider as the process transpires.

Laters

Gary

would be very interested to hear about how you go about and get on with registering a trike built for use by a disabled rider as i'm about to go through it with mine and don't have much of a clue.

The engine has been cleaned and etch primed. Black by this time tomorrow.

(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/eng%20prime%201.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-926)

(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/eng%20prime6.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-927)

(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/eng%20prime4.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-928)

More piccys later ;D ;)

More piccys ;D ;D


(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/eng%20b4.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-929)


(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/eng%20b3.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-930)

(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/eng%20b1.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-932)

More tomorrow if I can drag my sorry self back into the garage ;)

she's getting there ;D

looking good in black mate

(pie)
       talk 2 bikergran she knows alot about it


 (terrortuby)
                  i know that your garage leaks did you have your rubber boots on when playing with electric power tools

???????????

we saw that you are a member of the nabd as he wonded how to register on it  jane an peter

more piccys.

not too sure about the red as Wendy has just ordered a paint job that will clash with the red. I might try gold or silver just to see.

(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/in%20the%20red%202.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-935)


(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/in%20the%20red%201.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-936)

the frame is ready for the forks and wheel to be fitted.

(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/just%20the%20forks.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-933)

And the battery is hidden under the rack


(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/battery%20stashed.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-934)

More as it transpires

bloody red bits i've gone of red for some reason ;) ;)

ha, ha :D :D :D

The new paint on the cycle parts and the mud guards is being done by a young lad trying to break into custom painting.

He came round last night with a sample tank and I was most impressed with the quality of his work. ;D

Wendy has decided on a paint job and colour and all I'm prepared to say at the moment is that it is red....well sort of red :o :o   

Off to find an alternative to the red on the cam chain pulley cover and on the rocker cover  >:(  >:(
We think the red on the engine will clash with the new paint. Mind you for things to suddenly start being simple was a wish too far I suppose  ;)

just crack on with it and it will jump together all of a sudden

some more pics

(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/engine%20and%20box%20done%202.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-938)


(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/engine%20and%20box%20done%201.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-939)

The forks are done and the trike will be a trike  and not a two wheel thing on a stilt tomoz ;D ;D

Looking forward to the MMMotors exclusive on it when it's finished mate!  ;)

Alternative engine paint. wont clash with the new paint job ;D

(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/silver%203.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-940)


(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/silver%201.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-941)

More as it transpires ;)

ahhhh black and silver just go together lovely gaz very nice , ;) when is this beut gonna be up and running ,pretty soon i hope ;D

good the red rockers gone ;D ;D ;) ;)

That looks so much better  ;D

Got to be said Tazets right.
 Does look 100% better ;D ;D

So now's not the time to say I quite liked the red then?
Id've kept just the red rocker cover on an all black trike, just to make a quirky feature of it.

Yes but the whole point was that it's not gonna be an all black trike cos Mrs TT has spoken!

Do try and keep up......

Well it would've been all-black with a red rocker cover if I'd painted it -so there!  :P

Don't you mean it would be green  ;D :-*

Nope, only my trike will be green cos mine's gonna be the prettiest trike in the whole wide World.

Yes dear it WILL be  :)

In a very loud voice Bobbi...a very loud voice.

Mankey mate...yours will be the prettiest "green" trike, this will be the prettiest "reddish sort of thingy" trike.
The frame and engine will be mostly black and the silver has just gotten the nod of 'er indoors ;D ;)

Well how about all black with a spangly, sparkly heavy metalflake silver rocker cover then?

The bars and headlight
and the engine ready to fit.

more later

(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/bars%202.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-948)

(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/eng%20fin%202.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-946)

More after ;)

Rollin chassis time ;D The engine will be fitted as soon as i can organize some muscle to help ;)

(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/on%203%201.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-954)


(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/on%203%202.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-953)

(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/on%203%205.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-951)


More as it happens ;D ;)

You've changed the wood colour did you not like the red  ;D ???

hey tt lookin very nice but why only a single seat :o is the boss not goin on with ya ;D

We decided the red rack would be a bit much with the new paint that Wendy wants.

There are two seats going on the trike, I just put the riders seat on so we could set the bars for Wendy. Once the engine goes in we should have it done in a couple of days. I do have to take the seal out of the front of the diff tho and get another. The one thats in it has started to leak a bit so I need to get it sorted.

Just another little hiccup for me to deal with ;)

sounds like you have simlar problems to me things always going wrong but they all get sorted eventually  ;)

We are waiting for a pinion seal so we have spent some time refurbing the bits and painting stuff.
As soon as the seal is done we can pop the engine back in and get on with it.  ;)

Mick has wired up the back end and connected all the lights that are fitted so far.

More pottering about tomorrow and refit the front brake caliper and re run the brake lines.

More as it transpires  ;D ;)
Not to mention the agony from a cracked rib   
Slipped and fell on the corner of the trailor and gashed my side and did a rib   >:( ::)

Aww bet that hurts. Poor you. Hope it gets better soon mate.

Get well soon TT

Oooh I sympathise!  I cracked 3 ribs once - went to the doctor, he said briskly

"It'll be worse before it's better and it'll take about 3 weeks to heal"

He was right tho!

Take care TT. As they said, get well soon mate.

Cheers everyone, Like BG says, I should be ok in a week or three.

Just very slow going with the trike.  ::)

More piccys, these show the gear lever and all the gubbins that makes it work ;D ;)

(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/silver%20manifold%202.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-955)

(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/gear%20s3.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-957)


(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/gear%20s2.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-958)

(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/gear%20s1.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-959)

More later ;)

Right then, Everything is ready to go, all the bits are painted and ready to fit. All the bits we have bought are here and just need bolting on and wiring in.

All thats holding us up is the pinion seal for the diff so we are waiting for the postie at the mo. Mick is lying in the garage trying to prise the old seal out without breaking anything and I'm sat in the warm with a cig and a brew.

I'd forgotten just how sore cracked and bruised ribs can be so I am trying to take it easy.

No doubt the seal will arrive soon so I'll have to venture back into the garage and start freezing cos our heater croaked last week and I'm not buying another this year. Killed to this winter already >:(

We did this today ;D ;D

(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/engi%202.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-962)


(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/engi%204.jpg) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-960)


(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/engi%203.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-961)

url=http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-963](http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/engi%201.JPG)[/url]

All the heavy stuff done ;D

That looks the biz Terrortubby (you may want to consider wider bars tho')

looking very nice, keep up the good work :-* :-*

TT, how's your coil piggy-backed onto the starter motor? Looks nice & tidy.

Its a stainless strip bolted at the bottom of the starter and pinched with two bits of drilled m8 round bar bolted between the starter and coil
. It looks like a figure 8 when viewd from the front. breat bolting it to the frame or engine. And as you said it looks good and is rather clever. I must also point out it was Pauls idea not mine ;)

Just got to bleed the brakes and fit the radiator and the chassis is done, We just need the bodywork bits back from the painter and then it's time to book the test and registration.

Told you all it'd be quick once the engine had gone back in  ;) ;)

It's done. ;D ;D ;D

The chassis is all done, just have to get the bodywork back.

We are going to be sorting the registration and test this week. A lot of form filling and appointment making. I'll let you all know how we get on.


Laters  ;D ;D

If you're going the full MSVA route we could really do with a write up on exactly what's involved mate. I'll be putting my own build through the same test, but I've got no idea where to actually start -who do you speak to? What forms do you fill in & where do you get them from etc.
The more info we can pass on to prospective builders the better.

Doing it on the disability dispensation Andy, I'm disabled and Wendy has an inner ear problem that keeps her from riding a bike( keeps falling off) ???

I am keeping a diary of the process so I will let everyone know if I have any hassles.

Laters

Gary

O.K, I know you write on other forums, but if you could cover the disabled side for us, I'll get the full MSVA side.

I certainly could Andy, no worries.

Laters

Gary

Any ideas what this might be?


(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/Mudguard003.jpg) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-982)

It may or may not be part of this

(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/chassis%202.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-981)

I could tell you but then it wouldnt be a secret ;D ;D ;D ;)

Ooh, ooh, I know! But I won't spoil the secret. Nice colour though mate. Who does your paintwork?

He's a young lad from Bolton trying to break into the bike and custom painting scene. It's his first job this one and a little nerve wracking for him, I suppose I'm a tad wary of how the whole thing will look but think it may work rather well with the black and silver on the chassis.

As soon as it's back here I'll do a few more pictures and then if he wants I'll post his number here.

Yup, stick him in the Links for commercial purposes section.

Some more bits reconditioned and fitted to the engine.

More to come, Note the red trumpet like jobbie. It's very LOUD ;D ;D


(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/IMG_0242.JPG%20a.jpg) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-983)


(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/IMG_0234.JPG%20a.jpg) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-984)


I wanted a Stuka siren but we had to settle for the Klaxon because the siren wouldn't pass the test >:(

.....But after the test........... ;D ;D ;D

Have you got any MSVA friendly mirrors TT? I've got some tiny bar-end jobbies for mine once it's through the test, but need some big convex ones just to keep the inspector happy. Are you fitting a stone guard on that radiator? I like the shrouds either side of it. I've got to cover the fan belt for the test so want something temporary I can chuck away afterwards, so that would work. 

Hi MM,

I haven't got the mirrors yet, I am buying a set next week.
I am useing standard round mirrors for now as Wendy is just learning to drive and needs good vision behind, As she gets a little more confident on the road I'll swap them out for some custon jobs.

The fan shrouds will stay as we have young kids about the place a lot and they are bound to be curious about the silver whirly thing on the engine so I'm not taking any chances. They are just bits of 1mm. plate cut and bent to suit with screen trim round the edges to make them a little less likely to cut small mammals down.

I am looking for a suiable radiator grill, I had a web style one made up from 8mm round bar but it offers no protection so I need to figure out a way to incorporate it into a radiator cover that looks good and offers good protection.

More as it sorts itself out. ;)

OOOOH!! I hate wiring almost as much as welding :'(

Waiting on the bodywork, spending the time checking the work so far and doing the wiring we can do without the mudgaurds and dash ;)

Sounds like yours is moving on a damn sight quicker than mine is! Talking of which, It's time I got off to the garage. Later dudes!  ;)

Just started the form filling and hair pulling,

Not a great start as the DVLA sent the wrong forms. Apparently I need one with an orange stipe down the side of the page not a yellow one.

As soon as the DVLA and VOSA have sent me the right stuff I will be letting you all know what paperwork you will need to start the process of registering a trike built for use by a rider with a disability.

Laters

Gary

That's great Gaz. Very much appreciated. When the whole process is complete we'll copy it into the Motors, 3 wheels section of the main site.

Right then,
I spoke to the right person at the local DVLA office who then sent me the right forms.

I am going to ring and clarify what needs to be filled in and what supporting documentation I may need.


I am then going to go through the process of registering a trike built for use by a rider with a disability.

Then I am going to send it to every biker forum and magazine that will publish it.

There is too much conflicting information out there about this process and I have learned that the best place to start is your local DVLA office.
I made the mistake of ringing Swansea and got put through to the general enquiries.
The Local office deals with you on a more personal basis and will help you through the process.

I have to submit 2 forms and all my reciepts to start with.

Watch this space.

Laters

Gary

That's me buggered for a start then. Haven't got receipts for anything cos most of it's bartered & swapped or handbuilt.

I have a few bartered parts on my trike.
I was told to itemise each one with a brief description and cost or whether you got it free and where it came from.
They make allowances for people trading bits but you need a plausible explanation of where you obtained the parts.


If anyone needs confirmation for any parts they have off me I will quiet happily provide a letter to support the same. ( Spanners, your forks being a case in point)


Don't despair Andy, just set it all out in an easily read format and you should have no hassles.

Laters

Gary

Worry, worry, worry.  :(

You do not need to worry about that manky if your getting an MSVA. just get a date for te engine thats all. 8)

Really? Just contact the owners club & ask when it was built, then tell the MSVA guy? Or do I need something a bit more official than that? So no other receipts needed then?
Oh, by the way Byz, I've sent you an email about the Shepton show entry. Need your answer as soon as poss please mate.

It says on the MSVA form I have

 " if a vehicle is in class A,C or S please give the year the engine was made. (See note  Q17) at the time of the test, you must present a letter from the manufacturer or acceptable information that could be linked to the manufacturer giving the year the engine was made."

So it need not be a reciept neccasacarily, I got an email reply from "Micheals of Selby" who deal in reliants and reliant spares. I asked them to confirm the date of manuacture for my engine.

They have also told me that it is a 750cc engine. It was made in 1975 so it's a good old age.

I suppose the good bit is being able to give an engine that old and unwanted when I got it a new home and purpose.

Hope this helps Andy.

Laters

Gary

Recycling at it's best.  :)

I just produced a page off the net that showed the dates of manufacture and engine numbers. The tester never even checked it but have it just in case

Where did you find that page ByzMax? Wouldn't mind a look at that.

Ive put some pics in the gallery.

What make of engine?

Reliant would be useful.
Nice pics TT. Looks like you're almost there now.

Things look like this at the moment.

(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/back%20end%20red2.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-992)



(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/con3.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-991)

(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/con%20fitted.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-990)


(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/mud%201.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-989)

(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/silver%20dash2.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-988)

Not a lot to do now, the tank is due back tomorrow or Friday.

Later

Gary ;)

Thanks, I was made in 1975

Thanks, I was made in 1975

Made or produced?.

Ok produced. So I suppose I was made in 1974 than as my birthday is January.  ;D

So now wev'e established it's a "good age" and not a "good old age" what do you think of the paint ;D ;)

I like it.

Looks good  ;D

Looks Nice.

Looks great!  Different!

Cheers

Just got to fit the new points and condenser and all the electrics are done.
I'm going to start it tomorrow and get it all set up.

Just the tank to come and all the paint will be done and fitted.
As soon as it's all done I'll post some piccys.
Laters

Gary

The dash,

(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/Dash%20fin%201.jpg) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-993)

I'm going to do the panel in brushed aluminium when I can afford too. It's just mild plate sprayed silver at the mo. ;)

Heres a tough one for you.

The engine and carb are exactly as they were before we took them out.
The carb was cleaned and refit as was the distributor. The timing chain was set exactly as it came out of the engine. I marked it to make sure.

On turning the engine over we are getting a little back fire out of the exhaust and the carb but not a lot more. It's trying to fire but is just not getting there.

We could do with the standard plug gaps and point gaps please. I have ordered a new "Heynes" for the engine year (1975) but are useing a HS2 SU and are not even sure if the jets and needle are the right ones.

It did run before we stripped it and it all went back together ok but wont run now. We could probably do with someonme with more engine experience than Mick or myself to have a look.

If you live around Manchester and have any idea about Reliant engines I will qiet happily feed and water you in exchange for a bit of advice.

Cheers

Gary

hello gary. try this set the points at 14.thou to start with. im not sure if you know but the motor runs clockwise but the dizzy turns anti clockwise sounds to me like you,ve got no1 cyl timed right but 234 are 180 deg out i,ve pm,d ya my no in case you get stuck cheers toad.

Spot on Toad,

It's running now, albeit a bit rough but we haven't set the timing yet ;D ;)

your welcome!

It's all done now apart from fitting the tank.

Going to get the inspection done next thursday if they haver a spot free.


Piccys once I have recovered properly ;)

Inspection -as in MSVA test, or do they send an inspector to your house to issue a VIN number first?

It's not an MSVA Andy, It's an inspection by the DVLA to see what has been used to build the trike and to check the provenance of the parts used. Once they have inspected it and are happy they will issue a frame number and a registration plate number. you then get it MOT'd and insured and then back to the DVLA to get the tax disk.

They no longer visit at home to do this. You have to take your vehicle to the local DVLA office. I'm just fortunate that our local office also uses the VOSA site at Chadderton which is just up the road and saves me having to tow the trike to Trafford in Manchester.

More info on this as I get it.

Laters

Gary

TT why don't you get it Mot'd before you take it to the DVLA. You don't need a frame or reg number to get an MOT.

Might save some time?

I did think about that. I have been told the new system wont allow a MOT without at least some details held at the DVLA.

I also want to keep the trailer hire to a one day affair. The DVLA have informed me that I can't tow it on an A frame to their inspection , it has to be on a trailer. No idea why thats just how they want it.
I will be asking some questions just to clear some points up.

More as I go through it.

Laters

Hi TT

They can MOT without the details as I did my Trike before it was registered and they just did an overide on the relevant bits.

As for the DVLA wanting on a trailer? God knows why that would be but it might be cos it's not taxed and therefore should not be on the road.

However you can drive it to a pre-arranged MOT or MSVA.

Good luck anyhow and will be interested to hear about your experience!

 

It's done,

Just have to write an article , take some piccys, get it registered and inspected, fill it with fuel, have a brew, roll a cig and then go for a ride and I'll be done.

Nearly 12 calender months since I started. I hope we have no more delays or hassle, I don't want to go over 12 months.

Photo's tomoz or Monday, it's football with the girls today so I won't have time to do anything until tomorrow.

Laters

Gary

ME AND MY BIG BLOODY MOUTH   >:( >:( >:(

Got it all fueled up and started it, popped it into first and off we went, second and it was pulling nicely.
Third .......third....third.......OH bugger.....It goes in and as soon as you put it under load it pops straight back out again, it'll go into fourth and drive too.

If you put a bit of pressure on the lever and put it under load in third it drives but as soon as you let go of the lever it pops straight back out again.

I've checked all the obvious and made sure the gear change assembly is not fouling anything but it all seems OK.

Any ideas?

I need this like I need the plague  >:(

Any help appreciated  ;)

hi gary  lift the g/box lid and check for broken or missing indent springs and balls becarefull lifting the lid as the springs can stick to it then drop off into the box

Cheers Mike.
I'll let you know if I find the problem. I'm checking the detent springs first thing.

Thanks

Gary

we can always use my g/box if you get stuck

As we discussed on the phone Gary, try checking the three selector rods in the top of the box are aligned correctly. I think the first shaft selects 1st & 2nd, the second does 3rd & 4th & the third is reverse. If they're not all lined up with the recesses for the gearstick to hook into when it's in neutral in line, when you push the selector rod forward with the stick, it won't push far enough to properly engage.
Also check the end of the stick is actually long enough to engage fully with the selector rods. The ends of the sticks are cut to suit individual boxes. If your gearstick wasn't originally from your box it may be too short. 

Cheers Andy

Spent most of the day getting the old box out and fitting the new one, it didn't fit at first so we had to modify it a bit with a large hammer.

Actually I had to notch the starter motor housing to go round the frame as it's a little different to the box we had in..

The rest of the job should be done by the end of the week. I have hurt my back again and I'm going to have a few days off.

Also just had a Reliant Rialto hatch dropped at mine and have been eyeing it up with a view to ratting it up a bit.  ;D ;)

I may be in the market for Reliant running gear for another trike at some point.
Presumably if your new box is different, it's the later, pre-engaged start motor version. I looked at fitting one to my trike but I'd already set up the frame for the other type & couldn't be bothered to alter it. It would've meant I wouldn't have to find room in the battery box for a starter solenoid though, plus the pre-engaged motors start much quieter & smoother than the earlier ones.

sorry gary i've been out of actoin a few days

                                                                  mike

It's all done and being inspected on Thursday next week.

My humble thanks to Paul Blacklock for helping me so much and for sorting the frame out for me.
This would still be a pile of bits if It wasn't for Paul.

Cheers to Tony for the time he put in in Pauls Garage. Cheers Grum for the advice and company during the build.

Thanks also to Mick for all the time he has put in with the stripping down and painting. Some of the polishing is his work too.

Thanks to Mick and Craig, my neighbours who did the heavy lifting bits.

Thanks Martin for the great paint job

Thanks to Wendy and my mate Bunny who kept me going when I got really fed up and wanted to kick it into touch.

And finally thanks to you lot for your comments and support. 

It's been fun but now I'm off for a little lie down  ;D ;D

Great news! piccies

Great news TT i hope this getting trikes finished thing is going to catch on,cant wait to see the finished product,are you doing any shows?

Just the NABD and Roughlys Bike Show in Stockport up to now.

As for the pics , they will be done as soon as I get all the registration out of the way.
Got to do a write up too. I have just written an article on the registration process for a vehicle built for use by a disabled rider.

Good luck with your own build.

More as it happens. Honest ;)

Spoke to the DVLA yesterday,

All the paperwork I submitted along with my reciepts have been processed and is in order.

Inspection Thursday at 11 am, once thats done it's a few days to get the paperwork back from them and then MOT, tax and ride

That's great news TT! Bet you can't wait for that first trip.

some more pics

Mick has established that his feet touch the pedals and he can change gear. Now if he could just work the throttle and front brake he wouldn't be hassling me to take him for a ride

Mick rides an adapted GSX 750 and is not too shabby at polishing either


(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/DSCF0280.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-1000)

(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/DSCF0281.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-999)


(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/DSCF0288.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-998)

(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/DSCF0287.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-997)


(http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/DSCF0285.JPG) (http://photoalbum.disabledbiker.co.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-996)

and Andy mate, you are soooo right, we can't wait to get out for a ride ;D ;)

wehay its looking good there mate. Well done I bet you are chuffed to bits.

very very nice tt it looks the dogs dooberys,them there things that dangle  ;) ;D.gazz

Wow, that is a lovely looking trike 8)

WELL  youve done it








whats  next ;D ;D ???

A clean pair of undies I suppose ;D ;D ;D

enjoyed the chat on landline last night mr t.tubby twas nice and to have a bit of insight into the registering much appreciated yer a sound chap in my book ;)gazz

Looks great TT hope all goes well on Thursday!

Thanks mate
Just had the inspection by the DVLA.

The inspector took a couple of photos and checked a few parts against the reciepts I had submitted. Said he liked the paint and my documents will be in the post tomorrow.

It took all of 10 minutes and we passed more time talking about the weather than the trike. Quick and easy, just as it should be.

As soon as my documents arrive it's off for the MOT and Tax.

laters

Gary

Congratulations TT.
Well done.

Fantastic news TT I hope my documents arrive that quickly


Well done mate!

cheers
We are all waiting for the postman, hope he's on time for a change

I'm spending the time working out an advert for the bike. It's getting a bit much and I could use the dosh to build another trike.  ;D ;)

I've got no receipts at all for my build cos it's all either hand built or swapped & bartered. Getting worried now.  :(

Just write it all down and explain each part. Even the stuff you swapped or made yourself.

It just helps them to check your trike is what you say it is.
If you hand made most of the parts take some pictures of the bits and include them too.

Hope you get sorted mate ;)

Manky I was told I would have to take my Beach Bastard to one of these inspections but they can't give you any info about it. In principle it is what is known as a VIC check (Vehicle Indendity Check) to make sure it's not a stolen or written of vehicle thats been put on the road.

As the law states your innocent until otherwise proven they cannot refuse to register it unless it is not what you say it is and the burden of proof is on them!

Don't worry about it and I will let you know how I get on with mine on the 16th may.
 

Several years of my life & most of my sanity's invested in those few green frame tubes. Been trying not to think about the hassles of registration.

-worry, worry, worry, worry, worry...

Right then,

All the articles that I promised to write are done and sent to where they need to be.

Going to do the MOT this week, slow going due to having overdone it again.

Off for a lie down, I really need one now  ::) ::) ;)

MOT Today

Good Luck hope it goes through ok

It passed no bother

C'est fini ;D ;D

Congratulations mate ;D -ride it down to Shepton to see us this weekend!

Shepton on a hardtail??

Not anytime soon Andy but perhaps next year.

Laters

Gary

We have had a few teething troubles, intermittent missfire and the alternator dying.

We sorted it with a new alternator and a new set of plug leads, it's running very rich and we are going to reset the timing and fueling tomorrow.

Its done just on 50 miles now and is not too bad, it had a flutter on the bars at about ten MPH and due to the high bars you need to hold on all the time as if you let go it gets all flustered and has a little slapper.
A steering damper will cure it no trouble.

Other than that it's comfy stable and well capable of motorway speeds.

We are going to check all the fixings and connections tomorrow as well so we know it'll do the NABD rally no bother.

I'm well chuffed with the way things turned out.

Laters

Gary

i will keep an eye for you then if yer goin to the nabd rally tt ;)gazz

Not received any articles from you TT. Have you sent them direct to Yodie?
Good luck with that first long journey! Take care mate. And plenty of spanners & spares!  :)

Ta, we did, nowt fell off and you have mail ;D ;D ;)

Went for a ride to see a couple of people we know, wev'e done about 90 miles on it now, no bits fell off so Mr, Loktite knows his stuff at least.

We are still trying to figure out the ideal tyre pressure in the back but the front feels planted and it steers well.

We got lots of strange looks off people too. Im going to wear my lid until I loose the stupid grin tho'. Iv'e not stopped grinning like an idiot yet.

We still need to lean it off a bit as it's bogging down when you open the throttle quickly.

It did motorway speed with two of us on it last night, not bad for a 32 year old engine.

Off to polish it for a bit  ;)

More good news, the lubricant and coolant levels have not dropped so there are no leaks.

It's a little smokey but doesn't seem to be burning oil, I think it's just very rich and we need to get it leaned off.So I'm hoping the rings are good and the valve seals don't need changing.

It's all a bit of a steep learning curve at the moment. I still haven't got a clue with the Reliant engine. I'm still trying to find a Heynes for a 1975 engine.

I suppose I'll get there in the end.

I have a H reg 850 engine with 45000 mls on the clock so I may just change them.   ;D ;)

Very, very pleased for you TT  ;D Congratulations.
In the words of the great Billy Connolly- one less of them, one more of us.
And I know that stupid grin feeling. Abolutely nothing beats the buzz of blatting up the road on something you've sweated & grafted on & created from nothing yourself.
I've just got home form following the three triketeers back from the Shepton Mallet show. I was sat in a big hire van with my own & SaddleBags' trike frames loaded in the back, watching Flap & Si & Ska Man weaving through the traffic on the A303 aboard 3 Reliant trikes at a steady 75 or so.
Can't wait to get out there with 'em.

I'm still having bother with this engine, Mick seems to think it has a dwell angle, i'm sort of sure it doesn't. Any ideas?

 It's a 1975 engine and I know it didn't have an SU fitted because I took the old carb off this engine and fitted an SU from a 850 engine.

I need a disk or heynes with all the settings for a 1975 engine.
Anyone know where I could get one?

Won't be making the NABD rally at this rate. >:(

Hiya,
I've got the entire Haynes manual, covering '73 to '83, saved as one huge document. I've sent it to someone before buy they couldn't access it -was that you TT? You'll need Adobe Reader to view it. If you want a copy, let me know & I'll burn it onto a disc, or I can look up the relevant bits for you.
The 750s used a downdraft Zenith carb. When they switched to Sus, they just adapted the existing carb manifold mould. On later models you can see where the Zenith mounting studs used to go. Fitting an early manifold on a later engine's an easy way to turn your carb through 90 degrees to clear bike style petrol tanks by the way.

Hi Andy,
No it wasn't me mate, I have adobe too so should be able to open it.

I could do with the plug gaps, point gap and dwell angle for a 75 mill. leaned it off a tad too and it seems to have helped a bit but it still seems rich and a bit smokey.

It'll only do 80mph flat out and I'm sure it should do a bit more.

cheers mate

Gary

Our all accelerate really well up to 70 - 75, then level off, but will slowly wind their way up to 85 -90 if you push 'em hard. They're not super quick by modern standards, but perfectly capable of holding their own in traffic. The size of you rear wheels & tyres will greatly affect your gearing & top speed.
I'll bung a copy of the manual in the post to you, but the plug gap should be 25 thou, the points 15 thou & the dwell angle 60 degress +/- 3 degrees on type 23D4 distributors & 51 degress +/- 5 degrees on types 43D4 & 45D4.

Can't find your address in my extensive filing system. Must've lost the relevant scrap of paper.
Can you PM it to me please matey.

Yo MM, where can I source an early manifold?,can you get them new or do I have to search the scrap yards? The guv'nor's trike has a dummy mustang tank that someone has butchered because of this problem. forever in your debt,Fred

The later manifolds will work just as well. Take a look at the carb mounting flange on the manifold. It's diamond shaped with two mounting studs. The other two corners of the diamond are where the studs would've been on the earlier models. They just re-worked the old mould. So all you need to do is drill & tap two new holes to turn the carb through 90 degrees.
The earlier Zenith carb used the same size studs as the SU, spaced the same distance apart. My own trike has the carb turned round to face forward, which gives more tank clearance & makes routing the throttle cable tidier.

Micks dad had a fiddle and it seems to be running a bit better, Hopefully it will be running for the rally  ;D ;)

I could still use the disc tho andy, cheers mate.

Regards

Gary

Already in the post Sir.

Thanks, have plus 1 on the karma thingy ;D ;)

The disc arrived Andy, thanks very much.

Off to the rally tomorrow, taking my camera ;)

Good man. Have fun.  ;)

Went to the rally, no prizes tho.

Lots of people liked it for what it is, a car engined trike built in a shed.

It's fun to ride and even tho it's not very quick it sort of lures you into just tooling along quietly and enjoying the scenery.

I'm going to pull the 850 engine out of the car we have and do it up.
That should give us a bit more ooomph than the 750 lump, Spanners recons fitting a small cherry bomb box may help it breath better than the straight through job with the Vee Dub silencer we have on it.

I'm after a big V twin Jap cruiser for my next project ( scandalous I know!) but I want a bike trike to compliment this one.

Off for a play ;)

Looked for you at the rally TT, couldn't see you anywhere!

didn't move too far from the main marquee or bike show. We left just after the prize giving though. ominous skys and dogs to feed ;)

Sorry we missed you.

 Well it made the rally and back, it did a ride out to Glossop with a few other trikers too.

It's done just over 200 miles so it's getting a once over from Mick and myself just to check things.

It's comfy for a hardtail and handles pretty good too. It does 70 comfortably and probably will get to 85mph if we ever tried to go flat out.
Not overblessed with power but rather sprightly considering.

I dread having to ever drive a car with this much power and the only use for a reliant is to use as a trike donor or for spares for a reliant trike.

Being a hardtail I wouldn't want to do more than an hour or 100 miles on it in one go. The tank will hold 100 miles or so before reserve, we didn't plan it that way it's just a happy coincidence.. The shadow seats and tyre pressures actually provide a degree of comfort I didn't think could be acheived on a hardtail, another stroke of luck there too.

Anyway, the upshot is for a trike built in a shed on a limited budget out of a pile of bits, an old engine we were given and a wobbly frame, It's not too shabby and does exactly what it says on the tin.

It's never going to be quick with this engine but for tooling round the A and B roads we have locally its brilliant. I can see the scenery and everything is not blurry when I'm out on the trike.

That's it folks this job's a goodun

So a happy ending then.
Now get out & put some miles on it! ;D

Well done terrortubby.  What an achievement! You should be very pleased with yourself. 3 cheers!

Thanks,
just need to learn to cope with the hardtail, my back isn't enjoying it too much so it won't be ridden by me a lot.
I'm working towards a soft tail trike for myself.

Laters

Gary