[WIP] Classic Dump Truck XL

[JLiu15]

Ever since building my Classic Dump Truck from two years ago, I felt like it was a model that could be greatly improved upon. The original model was built at a relatively small scale, though I was able to put a good number of functions in the model. This will be the sequel to that model, and at a much larger scale.

Stud.io model so far:

I've immediately put a good amount of electronic components in the model. This model will use Control+ elements; a large angular motor is used for drive, which is 4WD on this model (unlike the previous smaller version which was RWD). Thanks to it having an output on both the front and rear, it is able to easily form a longitudinal driveshaft while oriented vertically. Note the extendable CV joint in the driveshaft - this will allow the driveshaft to be easily disconnected to access the Control+ hub battery compartment. Hopefully it's not an issue when the drivetrain is under stress, especially with the gearing down at the differentials. I also included a flat-6 piston engine connected to the drivetrain. I initially used 14:22 heavy duty differentials and planetary hubs, but found the resulting speed to be painfully slow so I changed it to 12:28 differentials and wheel hubs without gear reduction for a good speed/torque balance.

As for the design, the model will have a yellow cab built mostly using Technic but also with some System details. I initially wanted to make the cab orange again, with the same color scheme as the previous version, but I found the large yellow mudguards from the 42114 set to be a perfect fit for this model. So far, the design looks pretty good in Stud.io, and it definitely gives the classic pick-up truck vibe.

Stud.io model with bodywork hidden:

Current progress photos:

Edited December 16, 2024 by JLiu15

[JLiu15]

UPDATE 12/16/24

I had a Bricklink order arrive today, so I was able to get the front bodywork done. The front grille and bumper are made in one piece and is made entirely using System pieces. I made the grille and bumper in metallic silver, and I'm happy with how that turned out especially under the right lighting. The hood is also complemented using some System pieces (tiles and curved slopes), and in the end the front end came together pretty well. The model is definitely off to a good start, and I'm looking forward to the rest of the building process.

With the hood open:

View from the front:

[JLiu15]

UPDATE 1/12/25

Some more progress on the Stud.io model. I've modeled the cab, complete with opening doors and interior seats. I've tried to incorporate as much metallic silver as possible to really give it the classic look, including the side steps and mirrors, only using LBG as an alternative when metallic silver isn't available. I do feel like some areas such as the doors could've been designed better, but I tried to smooth out the build as much as possible with tiles to cover up exposed pins/pin holes.

I've made a rendering of the model so far; note that the rear axle is modeled but not attached yet; the next step is to model the remainder of the chassis complete with the dumping mechanism. Please let me know if you have any suggestions!

Stud.io rendering:

Edited January 12 by JLiu15

[1gor]

Cab looks fabolous

[lcvisser]

I wonder if some 1xN tiles attached with half-pins to cover the pin holes in the door and hood would improve the look. The pin holes are a bit distracting in my opinion. 

[JLiu15]

7 hours ago, 1gor said:

Cab looks fabolous

Thanks! So far my favorite part is the hood/front end since the System pieces really give it a smooth finish, but the cab definitely fits well with it.

5 hours ago, lcvisser said:

I wonder if some 1xN tiles attached with half-pins to cover the pin holes in the door and hood would improve the look. The pin holes are a bit distracting in my opinion. 

The tiles would protrude from the body slightly, so it wouldn't give a smooth finish either. I have considered making the roof using larger (e.g. 2x4 or 2x6) tiles like my previous Classic Dump Truck. I could stack several 1x7 liftarms for the doors to avoid the pin holes, but usually I try to avoid liftarm stacking if the space can be filled with panels.

[lcvisser]

3 hours ago, JLiu15 said:

The tiles would protrude from the body slightly, so it wouldn't give a smooth finish either. I have considered making the roof using larger (e.g. 2x4 or 2x6) tiles like my previous Classic Dump Truck. I could stack several 1x7 liftarms for the doors to avoid the pin holes, but usually I try to avoid liftarm stacking if the space can be filled with panels.

The tiles can give a bit of a "structural reinforcement vibe" (see e.g. in this trailer of mine), which might suit this particular model. You can put the tiles horizontally or vertically.

[1gor]

4 hours ago, JLiu15 said:

Thanks! So far my favorite part is the hood/front end since the System pieces really give it a smooth finish, but the cab definitely fits well with it.

 

I meant that complete front part

[JLiu15]

5 hours ago, lcvisser said:

The tiles can give a bit of a "structural reinforcement vibe" (see e.g. in this trailer of mine), which might suit this particular model. You can put the tiles horizontally or vertically.

The horizontal tiles definitely work well on your model! I'll see if any real-life examples of classic pickup trucks/dump trucks have similar structural reinforcements on the body. I could also try your solution when I get to modeling the dump bed.

4 hours ago, 1gor said:

I meant that complete front part

Oh that makes sense haha, I definitely think the looks of this model so far is an upgrade over my previous Classic Dump Truck MOC.