[MOC] Chevy K5 Blazer

[Madoca 1977]

Hello, everyone!

Here is the first creation I have completed in 6 years. I used only pure LEGO parts and Powered Up components.

Weight: 1475g (including 6 AA batteries)

Features:

 - 2x L motor for propulsion

 - 1x L motor for steering

 - 1x M motor for High/Low gearbox

 - Self-locking differentials

 - Linked pendular suspension

 - Detachable body and removable top

 - Openable hood, doors, rear hatch and tailgate

Video:

The main feature is self-locking differential system. Basic idea was the same as I put into modified rm8's Toyota Hilux in 2019.

When one axle articulates to the limit, the orange shifter rotates and diff lock engages. This time I also added center diff lock which engages when axle linkage moves to the limit. Since both axles and the linkage between them move together, all three diff lock engage simultaneously when suspension couldn't soak up the bumps.

Rear suspension travel is longer than front because the pivot of linkage is off-centered. Additionally, rear axle is positioned slightly lower than front. This can be done thanks to the flexibility of some connection point.

Steering system has a pivot on the same axis as roll center of front axle. Therefore suspension movement barely causes bump steer.

The upper body looks narrow because of one stud width of the edge of beltline like 42213 Ford Bronco.

Last but not least unique feature is the way of fixing body to the chassis. First, hook the back side of grill on the front end of chassis. Then switch four levers to fixed position. 

In a way, this model is the successor to my Jeep Wrangler built in 2017. I tried to pack more features in the same wheelbase as Jeep. Eventually its heavier weight required the use of planetary hubs. Which means the model became powerful but very slow. Off-road capability wasn't so good. Since diff-lock system depends on the movement of suspension, it didn't work when any wheel lost their grip and started spinning even on a gentle incline or slippery surface.

But I am happy with the result because I realized that I still could make something even after losing love, money and lots of hair! 

Building instructions will be available soon.

Edited 1 hour ago by Madoca 1977

[Bartybum]

It's great to have you back :)

I love how you used piston connecting rods as links for the pendular suspension, very creative part usage

[2GodBDGlory]

He's back!

I too was blown away by the connecting rod part usage! At first I thought it was a 3rd party part, then I thought it was a different part, and then it struck me!

It's also really interesting to see the triple auto-locking differentials. As you mentioned, maybe not the most practical off-road, but super cool to have done! 

Glad to see you're still building!

While you're here, has there been any progress on instructions for your Land Cruiser 80? It's totally understandable if life is making it hard to put in the amount of time that would need, but it's definitely my favorite of your models!

Edited 1 hour ago by 2GodBDGlory