the SharkNet (a product build thread) (1 Viewer)

[cruzerDave]

Well it certainly looks like there are at least 2 people in this thread making or going to make grilles for the LC, and one already available (the "billet" one you're referring to). Going by sales volume and used market availability, LXs seem to outnumber LCs. Maybe the LC is just cooler . As for making one, I could - but as they say, priorities....

To clarify, @Luke111 isn't making a grill for the 100s, the pictures he uploaded were from a beautiful grill he did for his 80. And I'm not commenting on what exactly mine will look like until it's done, because frankly it could take a few twists and turns along the way - I won't know until I get there.

I *can* say that my design priorities are:
a) same or better airflow (and this will be calculated)
b) simple to manufacture
c) simple to install
d) minimal cost for a quality product

So pretty much the same formula as the KISS Drawers, because hey, that works for me

 

[470SNC]

that is sweet!! cant wait to see the final outcome!

 

[Matserelli]

Cutting up your grill like that! I better see a classy grill for a classy cruiser!

 

[Dwight S]

@cruzerDave, I like to see someone jumping in with both feet like you've done with your product offerings.

Can't wait to see where you go with it.

I've got a spare grill I pull out once in a while, look at it and think about which way I want to go on it. I like the Satoshi grill look with a deep recess. I also like some of the features of the new Tundra and 4Runner grills and even the wide lettering and running lights on the Ford Raptor. Guess it's about time to pull it out again and get busy doing something with it.

 

[reznunt]

MORE PIKCHA PLEEZ!

 

[kelly saad]

A project this complex requires the most advanced CAD systems on the planet.

And those take time to do properly:

View attachment 1571167

(for the uninitiated, that's Cardboard Assisted Design...what, you thought this needed a quantum computer or something?)

Dude. That's my technique. Cardboard and 1/8" plywood with hot glue

 

[kelly saad]

sorry, wha? Links to those options? I couldn't find any decent grills for the 100 LC other than billet (which is not for me), so that is why I am even tackling this! If folks like it and want one I'll figure out how to sell it like I did with the drawers, but like @Dwight S said, if you can't find it, make it...

You couldn't find any decent grilles for the 100 LC? Thanks a Lot is my stuff that bad. Just kidding

 

[cruzerDave]

You couldn't find any decent grilles for the 100 LC? Thanks a Lot is my stuff that bad. Just kidding

I just meant 'any grills I can afford' - cause your grill is priced fairly to match its quality, no arguments it is worth every penny Kelly.

I just cant get that many pennies out of my wife's purse before she notices...

 

[kelly saad]

I'm soooo sad I thought we were buddies..... I like your drawers

 

[cruzerDave]

Finished the CAD phase last night, it was more of a PITA than I expected: lots of complex curves to this thing.

The best part of building something yourself though, is taking things one step further...

Oh yeah, I'm doin' that

File already sent to a shop for a prototype!

 

[spaber05]

That looks great!

Will the grill follow the contour of the leading edge (slightly concave when looking at it on the truck, similar to OEM) or be flat?

 

[reznunt]

Want

 

[cruzerDave]

Will the grill follow the contour of the leading edge (slightly concave when looking at it on the truck, similar to OEM) or be flat?

Yes.

Lol, I won't know until I try a few different ideas...it's a balancing act really.

Picture four people standing on a platform, which is resting on a big ball. Their goal is to balance the platform perfectly level, but as each person moves a little bit forward or back or side to side the platform shifts up or down or left or right. Name those people 'Design', 'Manufacturability', 'Installability', and 'Shipping', then put a tiger in the middle of the platform named 'Cost' and say "GO". Getting everyone to level the platform and the tiger to sit still and not eat anyone is New Product Development.

 

[sigg]

This is gonna be awesome man. Don't even have an LC…but excited to see how you solve this.

 

[spaber05]

Yes.

Lol, I won't know until I try a few different ideas...it's a balancing act really.

Picture four people standing on a platform, which is resting on a big ball. Their goal is to balance the platform perfectly level, but as each person moves a little bit forward or back or side to side the platform shifts up or down or left or right. Name those people 'Design', 'Manufacturability', 'Installability', and 'Shipping', then put a tiger in the middle of the platform named 'Cost' and say "GO". Getting everyone to level the platform and the tiger to sit still and not eat anyone is New Product Development.

Add to that a pit of sharp spikes underneath the platform, we'll call them impatient 'Mud members, and then you have a complete picture

In all honesty I'm in no rush, looking forward to some cool prototypes!

 

[FLWookie]

Yes.

Lol, I won't know until I try a few different ideas...it's a balancing act really.

Picture four people standing on a platform, which is resting on a big ball. Their goal is to balance the platform perfectly level, but as each person moves a little bit forward or back or side to side the platform shifts up or down or left or right. Name those people 'Design', 'Manufacturability', 'Installability', and 'Shipping', then put a tiger in the middle of the platform named 'Cost' and say "GO". Getting everyone to level the platform and the tiger to sit still and not eat anyone is New Product Development.

OMG, this is so true! I am a manager of a new product development team. This is every day! Sales people are the bane of my existence!

 

[kelly saad]

Finished the CAD phase last night, it was more of a PITA than I expected: lots of complex curves to this thing.

View attachment 1571676

The best part of building something yourself though, is taking things one step further...

View attachment 1571680

Oh yeah, I'm doin' that

File already sent to a shop for a prototype!

Complex curves, yes I understand your pain. Looks good so far. I started using thick poster board from a hobby store. It bends better and more accurate. Looks good man, nice job.

 

[yotasavg]

Following... this has been on my list since I bought the truck 4 years ago. Might as well buy your kit if you beat me to it lol!

 

[cruzerDave]

Add to that a pit of sharp spikes underneath the platform, we'll call them impatient 'Mud members, and then you have a complete picture In all honesty I'm in no rush, looking forward to some cool prototypes!

ROFL, nice addition but you guys aren't near as bad as my inner design demon waking me up at 3am with 'one more idea''

Complex curves, yes I understand your pain. Looks good so far. I started using thick poster board from a hobby store. It bends better and more accurate. Looks good man, nice job.

Very nice, I will remember that! Only downside I see is the lack of a punny acronym like "CAD" and I've been dying to use that since I heard it in Project Binky (if you haven't seen the youtube series there goes half your weekend- you're welcome).

PB&J might work, but I'm not thinking of a good 'J' word...?

 

[cruzerDave]

<PROTOTYPING INTENSIFIES>

Who knew cardboard was so sparky???