[sanddrag]

Originally Posted by Kam1310

We havent drilled holes Yet, but we will be soon because our competion does not start until march 31. At the moment we are really desperate to loose wieght because our robot is about 8-10 pounds over wieght. We are plan is to skip some practise rounds if we have to, to work on our bot so taking and putting back the motor shouldn't be a problem.

Umm, are you saying you plan on drilling holes in something between now and March 31st? That would be against the rules. Anyway, are you using pneumatics? If so, maybe you can store enough air to remove the compressor, try turning the pressure down on the regulator. Or, do you have two tanks? Maybe you can remove one.

When you consider that the density of 6061 aluminum is only .098 lbs per cubic inch, holes really don't save much. If you can put holes in your sprockets, then you will save weight. Also, take a look at what aluminum plates you have on your robot, and as yourself if they realy need to be that thick. 1/4" plate is almost never needed, 3/16" will do. This year, we aren't using anything thicker than 1/8" plate. Also, a thin piece (1/16") of 1x1 or smaller L angle bolted or riveted to a thin plate is just as good if not better than a whole thick plate by itself. If you can take mass out of a whole sheet by going thinner, you will be better off than drilling lots of holes in a thick plate. Take some thinner materials with you to the competition. You should consider plastics as well.