This is actually edited and expanded from an email I sent earlier today:
It looks like the design of the 100 lid works just fine,
The lids should basically be ready to go. However, I'm STILL dragging my feet a bit.
As you guys know, the second prototype is out in NV right now and has been test fit with basically no issues, the design appears to be finished pending a couple tiny adjustments, but I have not seen the fit personally and that has me worried.
I trust the two guys that played with the proto, but I'm still not comfortable sending something out that I have not FULLY reviewed and tested myself, just makes me nervous.
Anyway, I've been thinking that I will do an initial run of 5 100 lids and offer them up as beta versions for adventurous folks, or those in a hurry.
There are about 30 names in the 100 folder of folks interested in lids and they would have first dibs on a test batch (with some other conditions).
As of right now it looks like the 100 lids use almost exactly the same amount of material and the same fabrication effort as the 80 lids.
The only thing left to check is whether I will be able to get the same yield from the sheet metal since the 100 has the little wings on the gate edge.
For the time being, the price structure will be the same as the 80 lids (which is still way too damn expensive).
And, these initial lids will not be discounted, they will be full price, but also fully guaranteed like all my other stuff.
Also, I am going to be selective as to who can get them, basically I am going to need individuals who are fairly competent wrenches who are also capable of figuring out most of the installation for themselves (with lots of my support) since I also don't have comprehensive instructions yet. (with no truck to instal in it's hard to get the photos needed). :-b
Which brings me to the next point, I also would prefer folks with a good presence here on Mud so that we can get a collection of photos and installation issues posted up for everyone to learn from.
The only advantage for the buyer in this case is the chance to be the coolest kid on the block by getting a lid faster than everyone else, and the security in knowing that the price can only go up from here.
Thoughts?
And a couple photos sent to me from the boys in NV:
I sent the basic version of the latch out to test the possible interference with the set plate, and there was a bit of one.
The plate caught on the edge of the latch.
The easy solution to this problem is that I am going to push the stainless latches for the 100s.
They have a smooth transition to the surface that will let the set plate slide right over them.
Not to mention they are the top of the line super-slick latch, since hundys are the the super-slick cruiser, it only seems natural.
(the other way around this it to rout out a recess for the standard latch if anyone really wants to run them, but that's a pain in my arse)
Other than that we are concerned that the set plate might rattle since it rides on a hard surface now, easy fix with some stick on furniture type padding to the leading edge of the plate, but I am putting together something hopefully a little more secure.
KR
)
