AndyMark C-Channel

[Jpatterson1710]

Does anyone know of a replacement option for the AndyMark 72in C-Channel, Part # am-3052? They are out of stock, and we really need some.

[kevin.li.rit]

Do you need all the holes in the c-channel?

Vexpro has a similar product at 59"

http://www.vexrobotics.com/vexpro/versaframe/versaframestock.html (http://www.vexrobotics.com/vexpro/versaframe/versaframestock.html)

If you do not need the holes at all you can pick up 4 or 8 ft sections from mcmastercarr
(http://www.mcmaster.com/#standard-aluminum-u-channels/=vjzr4u)

[Jpatterson1710]

Yeah, I saw those. I think we'll have to hold out for the AndyMark stuff. Thanks for the quick reply.

[kevin.li.rit]

What about this?

http://www.vexrobotics.com/vexpro/versaframe/legacy-structure/vexpro-frame.html

[Jpatterson1710]

The issue is that we already have systems with the AndyMark stuff, which is not exactly 1 inch. It seems sort of "Craptastic" to make the, now, more preferable Vex stuff to fit. If it seems like it will take a while to get back in stock, we'll probably just go with it, and we can make it work. Again, thanks for the ideas!

[Mike Marandola]

It's more expensive but they have a 30" length in stock. (http://www.andymark.com/product-p/am-2222.htm)

[Jpatterson1710]

Check out the side holes, 30in pieces have pre-drilled holes for drive bases. 72in pieces have a one inch pattern. It looks like its time to give in and get the Vex. Thanks everyone.

[IndySam]

That part is for the old c-base chassis so they may not be making it anymore, there is no re-stock date. I would call AndyMark and see if they are planning on getting more in stock or you may be waiting a while.

[orangemoore]

That part is for the old c-base chassis so they may not be making it anymore, there is no re-stock date. I would call AndyMark and see if they are planning on getting more in stock or you may be waiting a while.

This part was a new product in the off season so I would hope it isn't discontinued.

Also they do note the product is different than the 30" pieces.

[gpetilli]

We made the switch to VEX this year (including the new clamp on gearbox). Just a warning that it is not so easy to mix and match the chassis parts.

The VEX C-Channel is 1" OD and the AM is 1" ID (1.25" OD), which means the Vex will slide into the AM (good) but you can not use the extruded corner connectors from AM on the VEX (bad). The VEX system assumes external gussets (with rivets) to constrain the corners.

[Jpatterson1710]

For anyone who may be wondering - An AndyMark rep told me that they will likely have 72in back in stock by the end of this week, or end of next.

[MrJohnston]

You could also check onlinemetals.com....
Aluminum Channel Link:
http://www.onlinemetals.com/merchant.cfm?id=64&step=2&top_cat=60

They have *everything* metal.....