Tips for KitBot

[generalbrando]

The team we're mentoring stopped by yesterday and I found myself giving them a lot of tips for the KitBot. I'd like to briefly outline them for your viewing pleasure:

1. Use loctite on all bolts. The 1/4 20 nuts do have lock-washers, but we've found that because they are coarse thread and because the frame is brushed, they still come loose quite a bit.

2. Read the instructions: You're missing a few things that you can pick up at the hardware store: bolts for wheel hubs, pvc for spacers, 3/8" bolts and nuts, etc.

3. Use Grade 8 or 9 bolts for the axels to prevent bending/breaking. Most hardware stores carry higher grades.

4. Cover the extra hole on the transmission boxes to prevent junk from going in there. Duct tape it for now, find something legal latter.

5. The compressor can be mounted upside down between the motors, attached to the motor bracket plate. Be sure to use red loctite though

6. The plates that attach the transmissions to the chassis tend to slip because the drive train is powerful. Consider adding a bolt through a new hole in the plate (i.e. so that there's no way it can slide) - but do this after you're sure you have it in the right place (plenty of chain tension).

7. The gearbox was designed to optimally run with 2 CIM motors per gearbox and I strongly recommend using 2 CIM motors per gearbox. It is legal to purchase 2 more CIM motors and they are only $28 from IFI. (From Paul. Thanks!) Also, consider asking other teams (veterans) if you cannot afford more motors this year.

8. there is a video that illustrates how to assemble the transmissions and chassis, thanks to NASA...Chasis and transmission assembly video (From Vince. Thanks!)

9. Consider placing extra material over the bolt holes of the axles. This will help prevent the holes from wearing out and expanding. Basically, just take some flat aluminum extrusion and bolt it over the hole. Then redrill the 1/4" hole for the axle. (From Nitroxextreme. Thanks!)

10. Once you have the transmission boxes made up, run them for 10 minutes with a little oil. This will break them in and produce better and more consistent results. (From Andrew. Thanks!)

I think that's all, if I have more I'll add them or if others have more to add, please do so.

(Note: I did not yet add welding because there is valid debate below about whether it's a great suggestion.)