[D-Day] M32 ARV

[Ecam]

Today I hope to get a fair bit done on the boom. To start with, another thing that needs to be done to convert a late M4 and M4A1 to early (narrow hatch) is at the rear. The cut out and hand crank hole.

M32 21.JPG (1.29 MiB) Viewed 24 times

Then to build the boom I have to start with the brackets that the support rests in for travel and "tow truck" mode. Next I'll have to work out boom length and the support uprights.

M32 22.JPG (1.28 MiB) Viewed 24 times

[Ecam]

So here is part of my fabricating or scratch building methods. CAD to me is cardboard aided design. That is wooden rod for the boom right now.

M32 23.jpg (33.04 KiB) Viewed 23 times

M32 24.JPG (1.11 MiB) Viewed 23 times

I know the boom length so now I'll play with the length of the upright until I get it right.

[Jimster]

You are gettin’ with it and doing a first class job.

[Ecam]

Thank you Jimster. I hope to have more to post soon, but these parts are taking time.....

[PainlessWolf]

Ecam,
I was talking to Sass about your amazing skill at building parts out of leftovers and plastic and sprues, etc, the other day. This recovery vehicle is going to be another Great Build along those lines. Following along!
regards,
Painless

[Ecam]

That is what I'm hoping for too. So far I bought a 3 foot brass tube and some brass flat stock. Spent around $30. Still need to get a HL M4A3 and possibly a winch (unless I come up with a way to build one).

[Ecam]

To me it is funny how fast some things come together and other things take so much time....

Still working with the wood beams, but the rear upright had to be completed before final cutting on the brass tubes. I did manage to start with the pivot ends. They are not "finished" but mechanically the pivots are complete. Tomorrow I will work on the rest.

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M32 26.JPG (1.57 MiB) Viewed 22 times

[Ecam]

Here is the basics of the crane. Need to find a cable that will relax a bit better. I used picture hanging wire on the DUKW's winch, will have to look around for some more. Lots of bracing to go on the boom, but the upright is about finished.

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M32 28.JPG (1.03 MiB) Viewed 21 times

[Jimster]

Nice job. Looks very well made and sturdy.

[HERMAN BIX]

I love that mate, really different and well put together