Update

I'm still alive. And the project is still happening. Fulltime job and my boys are 13 and 10 and very active in lots of things. So barely enough time to work on this project. And pretty much no time to post about it. I try to post a little more frequently on Instagram (dozerbuilder01) but even that has been rare lately. Well, I start with the best part and work backwards. I started the dump bed. I originally didn't want to do this until last because it will just be in my way and I don't have room in my garage for something so big to sit off to the side. But I figured now it will annoy me into getting this project done. I don't have some of the front end in place in this photo but I do have most of it completed. That includes all of the handrails, steps, cab, grill etc.

Here's the hardrails and steps while it was still assembled.

Also working on how it's controlled. Didn't want levers linkage or cables running into the very small seating area. So most things will be computer controlled. I used a couple of Arduinos to control the shifting (this will have reverse, neutral, 1st and 2nd) and also to control the air suspension. I've written a program so it will self level.

I can't believe it's been 4 years since I posted here. Once it's done, hopefully I'll have a little time to do what I did with the dozer and catalog the build. However, I've also been a little bad with taking pictures. Again, with what little time I get in the garage, I just want to work. Hopefully I only have maybe another year left. It's really just a bunch of small details I need to finish up. It drives. It has a bed. I just need to finish weld things. Finish wiring. Run air hoses. And paint it. So we'll see.....

Another Update

Kind of a random update but here goes. I got the frame done and sitting on wheels and tires sometime last year. I'll eventually update the build pages properly but in the mean time, both front and rear suspension are simple swing arm with a track bar. Nothing fancy. 

Also completed the engine cradle. 

Now I've been working on the front end sheet metal and the support structure.

Also got a new radiator and fan mounted. Had to mount externally due to space. Also changed the manifold and muffler as well as the alternator for more output. 

As always, I try to post a little more regularly on Instagram @Dozerbuilder01

Thanks for checking out my build.

Ryan

Keeping the momentum going......

Progress continues. I have very limited time, so I tend to work on it when I get a chance vs updating this webpage. I do typically post on Instagram somewhat often due to the ease of doing so. So if you follow me there (Dozerbuilder), you'll see slightly more frequent updates.

I'll update the build index once it's completely done and I have more time. 

I've got some good momentum now. I hope it continues...….

Got Some Real Progress Now

I'm at about 75%-80% on the design now. I'd like to get to around 90% with the rest figured out while building (hose routing, controls etc). Things I don't feel like spending the time to model.

Most of the cad work left to do is on the front end. So I decided to start building the axle. Before I tabled this project some time ago, I was trying to use a GM 14 bolt and a 10 bolt from an S10. I'll create a detailed page once it's done but for now, here's some of the progress. Feels good to be making parts again.

I've also started collecting parts to keep the motivation going.

Rotary Weld Positoner High Torque Upgrade

Although I've had no problem with the somewhat limited amount of torque on my weld positioner, I've had a few users try welding very large pipe sections on theirs without much luck. From the pictures they've sent me, they were trying to weld four 6" (schedule 40?) Tee sections that were all facing the same way. The piece was about as big as the pallet it was laying on. I've been very clear about the lack of torque (which isn't needed when welding round or balanced parts) but I didn't want to give up on helping these guys out. So I tested a stepper motor with a gear reduction box attached to it. See the video for more information on this. Although I have not done extensive testing on this setup, I will update the plans soon to include information about this upgrade.

Disassembly Time

I paid around $700 for that mower. And it yielded a lot of good parts.

• 3 cylinder Kubota diesel engine with all of the accessories.
• Hydraulic steering valve, cylinder and wheel.
• 3 section hydraulic pump 
• Drive and control valve (that will be used for the dump bed) 
• Hydraulic drive motors 

All I should need to finish out the hydraulics is the lift cylinders and the rotary flow divider. Hoses and fittings as well. Which will probably end up costing more than the whole mower actually. 

I'll also be using different wheel motors for two reasons that will be explained later on. 

Finally Got Some Motivation Back

After yet another long hiatus, I finally got back to work on the dump truck project. I'll see if that motivation will continue. Read more about what I've done HERE.