Another homemade tank

[us56456712]

Here is an idea to kick around. I needed a half a tank so I made a plaster mold using drywall mud powder. The 20 minute drying time variety of plaster powder mud is better for the mold but none of the building supply outfits had it. I used another tank off of another bicycle to make the mold. Cooking oil spray is the release agent. I took the tank out of the mold the next day before it was fully cured as it is easier to remove then. I had some carbon fiber left over from another project so I used that, squeezing it between a male and female mold half’s. It would be much easier to just make the male mold and put in two part high density closed cell foam, like they use for making homemade duck decoys. It will also release with cooking spray. I used carbon fiber because I had it for years and thought I might as well use it.

 

[us56456712]

It needs a lot more work. Good winter project. it‘s great being retired. I sanded through the carbon fiber in three small areas. I’ll patch that later. Right now I’m just trying to make a reasonable facsimile for the missing tank half.

 

[kingfish254]

Love the flying wing Columbia tanks. This is gonna be cool.

 

[us56456712]

I‘m getting tired of sanding this thing. I’ve come to the conclusion that this is about as good a fake tank as I can make. Next, more fine sanding, tape and paint and drill mounting holes.

 

[Pestcontrol02]

Wow. That’s actually really good.. learn something new every time I come.
nice work

 

[us56456712]

The primer is sanded but it needs to dry for a few more days. Paint will occur soon. Good enough, but not perfect.

 

[us56456712]

Done enough. I might do white trim next summer but I doubt it. Good enough.

 

[us56456712]

The homemade carbon fiber tank is done but it has a duller look than the metal side.

 

[Captain Awesome]

The homemade carbon fiber tank I’d done but it has a duller look than the metal side.View attachment 216443View attachment 216444View attachment 216445View attachment 216446

Looks great

 

[100 mile howie]

The homemade carbon fiber tank I’d done but it has a duller look than the metal side.View attachment 216443View attachment 216444View attachment 216445View attachment 216446

I can appreciate how much time and energy that took. I think the results are worth it. It looks great. I am inspired by your work.

 

[us56456712]

I can appreciate how much time and energy that took. I think the results are worth it. It looks great. I am inspired by your work.

Time consuming but cheaper that buying a real one, if you can find them. It’s cheaper because I used leftover carbon fiber from a handle bar repair I did.