[WIP] Unimog 406 "big red"

[GerritvdG]

Last month I got the idea of building an Unimog as alternate model of the 42082 Rough Terrain Crane "big red". When searching and reading about the different Unimog-series the type I really liked was the 406.

The goals of this project:

• have fun;
• learn from sharing the progress of creating this model, I'm fairly new;
• only use parts of the 42082, it reduces the number of possibilities for me (it also means that I can't use shock absorbers);
• use an incremental approach: first goal is make a realistic model with minimal features (steering) and add other features later on (suspension, fake engine, gearbox, tipper, etc.)

 

I started the process with searching for blueprints, then scaled the blueprint to the 42082 wheel. The scale that came out is 1:7 1:11.

The next step was to create the cabin, below you can see the first version. There is still room for improvement!

• the snorkel need some improved spacing, now the red axle is visible;
• the headlights were difficult with the available parts, still need to enclose those further;
• the back of the cabin has to be finished.

Added the wheel for scale.

I think the next step is to create the chassis and make this as robust and realistic as possible.

Let me know what you think about this project! Tips and constructive criticism is welcome!

 

Edited October 6, 2021 by GerritvdG
Typo

[Rebel_Lego]

I'm curious how this will work out!

Btw, did you mean 1:17, cause 1:7 seems very big to me.

[GerritvdG]

9 minutes ago, Rebel_Lego said:

1:7 seems very big to me.

you're right, checked it and it should be around 1:11 (wheelbase original 238cm, model 22cm).

[GerritvdG]

Project update, first version of the bodywork and axles finished:

• added LBG bed (not enough red pieces, also tried a black one, but I didn't like it)
• added mudguards and front bumper
• added pendular front axle, steered and driven, based on the 42082 axle (thus with reversed Ackermann geometry)
• simple driven fixed axle at the back

Considerations:

• I wonder if the proportions are alright, doubt to rise the roof of the cabin with one stud. Is it recognizable enough?
• The axles could be more realistic, alternatively I could create rigid portal axles with a torsion bar and use Lego axles as shock absorber...

Next is:

• HOG-steering
• Create the powertrain and a straight-six fake engine

Detail of the pendular front axle, the gray axle is the pivot point.