tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4924935730279508562024-03-18T04:15:51.131-05:00American Carriage BuilderFrey Carriage CompanyToddersvillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04475636917256235974noreply@blogger.comBlogger136125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492493573027950856.post-25766779575755376062016-04-03T12:05:00.002-05:002016-04-03T12:05:57.282-05:00The New FCC Rebel<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jQGnuTiNIfU/VwFNbqlkbCI/AAAAAAAACL4/FHiAR17B5NEsezo6bnHA-R9hcSuEwWQTA/s1600/DSCF3433.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jQGnuTiNIfU/VwFNbqlkbCI/AAAAAAAACL4/FHiAR17B5NEsezo6bnHA-R9hcSuEwWQTA/s320/DSCF3433.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Toddersvillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04475636917256235974noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492493573027950856.post-60883325121413558472012-07-07T10:10:00.002-05:002012-07-07T10:14:23.404-05:00Does Your Rubber Keep Slipping Off?Sorry about the title but in my line of work I’ll never get to write about such a provocative subject again. Figured I better make the most of it while I had the chance. As if building great carriages wasn't enough we provide wit and humor free of charge.<br />
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Lately there has been a lot of buzz stateside about rubber tires on modern carriages. There have been recent issues with rubber tires pealing off the wheels of European carriages. Most carriages that are imported to the states have steel wheels with rubber tires that are either bonded or vulcanized to a flat rim. This process is probably efficient for manufacturing but not so much for repairs. The photo below shows the tire of a typical import wheel.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gOMEyI2_oiU/T_hIIsQzY5I/AAAAAAAACG8/efrlbAQBjfM/s1600/Euro.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gOMEyI2_oiU/T_hIIsQzY5I/AAAAAAAACG8/efrlbAQBjfM/s400/Euro.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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As you can see the metal rim is thin. It is a flat piece of steel in which the rubber is bonded. If there is an adhesion failure the process of repair is not easy. I do not believe there are over the counter adhesives and processes available to make a good quality lasting repair.<br />
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During manufacturing the rubber is fused to the raw steel. The steel must be clean, chemically treated and then bonded to the rubber. The rubber tire is trimmed and finished after installation to the rim. It’s a complicated process and better suited for large scale production applications rather than putting rubber back on a couple wheels.<br />
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Bottom line there are no simple repairs. To do it right the wheel would need to be stripped of paint, chemically washed and new rubber installed through the same adhesion process. Then the wheel needs to be repainted. All things considered it’s probably easier to buy new wheels and the original manufacturer probably had that in mind.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fxIfn8CoHf0/T_hIJKdJ-UI/AAAAAAAACHU/x1ZKoMTAg_M/s1600/Wheels.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fxIfn8CoHf0/T_hIJKdJ-UI/AAAAAAAACHU/x1ZKoMTAg_M/s400/Wheels.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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We manufacture wheels and we may be able to offer you an aftermarket alternative to ordering new wheels from Europe. Our wheels are made with a channel rim which is more traditionally seen on American carriages. The metal rim itself is made of a “U” shaped channel. Rubber is extrusion molded to set into this channel. The rubber tire is designed with continuous holes for feeding of wire. These wires are stretched very tight and brazed together. After those connections cool the rubber is pressed closed over that connection.<br />
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There are two big advantages to this style of install. One the rim can be powder coated rather than traditionally painted. Powder coat is much more durable than paint. Number two if the rubber were to fail again it can be repaired locally.<br />
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Our process is a conversion from the bonded tire to the channel type tire. We have done this in the past with very good success. It is a cost effective solution to shipping new wheels from Europe and makes future repairs much easier.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iK_1TKp9uNs/T_hII2E6cKI/AAAAAAAACHI/x5UckcOnW3E/s1600/Hub.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iK_1TKp9uNs/T_hII2E6cKI/AAAAAAAACHI/x5UckcOnW3E/s400/Hub.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Basically we remove the hub from your wheel. The spokes are manually cut (shown in photo above) and the exterior of the hub is then machined to clean and true up the outer surface. We build a new wheel around it with new spokes and a steel channel tire. The wheel is then powder coated and channel type rubber installed. This gives you a new wheel with the ability to repair or replace rubber at numerous locations in the states.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bkQPF2oAxAA/T_hOiSaREvI/AAAAAAAACHw/vsx40UD_0P0/s1600/Yellow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="376" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bkQPF2oAxAA/T_hOiSaREvI/AAAAAAAACHw/vsx40UD_0P0/s400/Yellow.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Depending on the wheel and the color this process will run about $1,000 to $1,200 per pair for new wheels. Please remove the bearings from the wheels prior to shipment. You can ship the entire carriage if you wish and we can do the complete replacement as another option. Removal and re-installation is done on a time and material basis.<br />
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I wish there was a simple solution to this but it’s really more complicated than just putting on new rubber. We have found this concept to be a good way to solve the problem and make future repairs much easier.<br />
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Have a great weekend...<br />
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Ciao!
T
Toddersvillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04475636917256235974noreply@blogger.com373tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492493573027950856.post-4310326358110428112010-11-12T13:43:00.010-06:002010-11-12T14:00:11.181-06:00Brewster Park Drag #25895Every time I post a new blog I seem to say the same thing so let’s get that part over with and move on. “Sorry I’ve been too busy to blog, bla, bla, bla…” There got that out of the way. But we have been busy. Juggling a lot of balls, or flaming torches, or rubber chickens these days. Pick your pleasure. Some good restorations going on in the shop. We are about midway on an Albany Cutter, wrapping up a Portland Door Cutter and getting a good roll on a Studebaker Sailor Wagon. All good fun.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2Z4CPdoUI/AAAAAAAACAo/QWc5CxaIEXA/s1600/apd1.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 234px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538752304689029442" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2Z4CPdoUI/AAAAAAAACAo/QWc5CxaIEXA/s400/apd1.jpg" /></a><br /><br />I wanted to share a number of photos from a recent project. It was a pretty good sized project and it turned out spectacular. It is Brewster Park Drag #25895 built May 18th 1912 for D.R. Hanna. This could very well be the last Coach built by Brewster. It has many unique features that coincide with the order direction to be built extra light. The axles are equipped with Timken Roller Bearing hubs per the specification.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2Z33Ix15I/AAAAAAAACAg/dgFZfFnZVTI/s1600/apd2.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538752301708203922" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2Z33Ix15I/AAAAAAAACAg/dgFZfFnZVTI/s400/apd2.JPG" /></a><br /><br />We acquired the coach in New England for a client and dove right into restoration. The majority of the original finish had been stripped. Some of it was painted and some was stained and varnished. It had been in rather damp storage for a number of years but all in all the coach was a very solid and intact vehicle.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2Z3hw52qI/AAAAAAAACAY/c-xasb1HtXo/s1600/apd3.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538752295970921122" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2Z3hw52qI/AAAAAAAACAY/c-xasb1HtXo/s400/apd3.JPG" /></a><br /><br />The wheels are traditional Brewster and all original. It appeared the hubs were a bit oversized to accommodate the original roller bearing boxing inside. All the original Brewster oil caps were in place and in good condition. This vehicle weighed in at about 1,800 pounds and with roller bearing hubs it moved effortlessly.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2Z3dUwCUI/AAAAAAAACAQ/rFdUHOXh4Rw/s1600/apd4.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538752294779095362" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2Z3dUwCUI/AAAAAAAACAQ/rFdUHOXh4Rw/s400/apd4.JPG" /></a><br /><br />The original Brewster lamps were with the coach and in very solid condition.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2Zs1RK6GI/AAAAAAAACAI/nAhPizbtxv0/s1600/apd5.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538752112227969122" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2Zs1RK6GI/AAAAAAAACAI/nAhPizbtxv0/s400/apd5.JPG" /></a><br /><br />Interior was all original and complete. Notice the simplicity. No buttons. I believe this was done to keep the weight as light as possible on this coach. The new interior leatherwork done by Greg Hunt was an exact duplication of the original. <br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2ZslZ-JqI/AAAAAAAACAA/eR1IXdpGg7I/s1600/apd6.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538752107969914530" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2ZslZ-JqI/AAAAAAAACAA/eR1IXdpGg7I/s400/apd6.JPG" /></a><br /><br />One of the first steps is removal of the body.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2ZscyYRuI/AAAAAAAAB_4/QeWysCrwpZg/s1600/apd7.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538752105656370914" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2ZscyYRuI/AAAAAAAAB_4/QeWysCrwpZg/s400/apd7.JPG" /></a><br /><br />There was only one cracked panel on the front boot below the toe board. Here we are in the early stages of stripping the main body and replacing the panel.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2Zr8YTXHI/AAAAAAAAB_w/c7n3GSRJIzk/s1600/apd8.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538752096957062258" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2Zr8YTXHI/AAAAAAAAB_w/c7n3GSRJIzk/s400/apd8.JPG" /></a><br /><br />The chassis was dismantled, stripped and shown here in first coat primer.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2ZriaajEI/AAAAAAAAB_o/H0gRO8LB7w8/s1600/apd9.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538752089986600002" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2ZriaajEI/AAAAAAAAB_o/H0gRO8LB7w8/s400/apd9.JPG" /></a><br /><br />The lamps were very solid and pretty straight for the most part. After minor repairs they were stripped and then into primer.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2Zd7ZEMQI/AAAAAAAAB_g/FFF5wvEHBxA/s1600/apd10.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538751856173658370" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2Zd7ZEMQI/AAAAAAAAB_g/FFF5wvEHBxA/s400/apd10.JPG" /></a><br /><br />Here we have the body in final coat primer. It has been wet sanded and ready for first coats of base color.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2Zdp-LBkI/AAAAAAAAB_Y/p72nU6KxH5s/s1600/apd11.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538751851497457218" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2Zdp-LBkI/AAAAAAAAB_Y/p72nU6KxH5s/s400/apd11.JPG" /></a><br /><br />Our wheels in first coat primer after sanding and ready for another.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2ZdA81hHI/AAAAAAAAB_Q/BZqROFdoQEY/s1600/apd12.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538751840485999730" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2ZdA81hHI/AAAAAAAAB_Q/BZqROFdoQEY/s400/apd12.JPG" /></a><br /><br />The body in first coat base color black. Much wet sanding, color and clear to follow.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2Zc98H-FI/AAAAAAAAB_I/76dZVGkmmxM/s1600/apd13.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538751839677708370" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2Zc98H-FI/AAAAAAAAB_I/76dZVGkmmxM/s400/apd13.JPG" /></a><br /><br />We completed the chassis, striping and all before we installed the body. Here the body is coming down and Dale is aligning the fasteners. Once it’s down with a couple bolts holding it in place everyone can take a deep breath.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2ZcoR9-UI/AAAAAAAAB_A/08iArYPM-M4/s1600/apd14.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538751833863747906" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2ZcoR9-UI/AAAAAAAAB_A/08iArYPM-M4/s400/apd14.JPG" /></a><br /><br />Outside in the sun after completion.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2ZOOF7uPI/AAAAAAAAB-4/uU6graT2HOs/s1600/apd15.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538751586315778290" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2ZOOF7uPI/AAAAAAAAB-4/uU6graT2HOs/s400/apd15.JPG" /></a><br /><br />Find a ripple if you can. Flawless paint and preparation by the crew at Frey Carriage Company.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2ZN0PWmPI/AAAAAAAAB-w/dsn2gpC01R4/s1600/apd16.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538751579375966450" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2ZN0PWmPI/AAAAAAAAB-w/dsn2gpC01R4/s400/apd16.JPG" /></a><br /><br />Beautiful details.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2ZNQqboWI/AAAAAAAAB-o/d8gS298UmyQ/s1600/apd17.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538751569825866082" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2ZNQqboWI/AAAAAAAAB-o/d8gS298UmyQ/s400/apd17.JPG" /></a><br /><br />The completed interior in a soft chocolate leather. The simple interior is very unusual.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2ZNLWBYDI/AAAAAAAAB-g/PLF5SBzPjy0/s1600/apd18.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538751568398082098" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2ZNLWBYDI/AAAAAAAAB-g/PLF5SBzPjy0/s400/apd18.JPG" /></a><br /><br />The chassis was just gorgeous. Deep red with vermilion stripe per the original specification. We were lucky to find some original red intact on the window shades to make a match.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2ZM-KYQ9I/AAAAAAAAB-Y/i9WumAPrRIw/s1600/apd19.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 312px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538751564859589586" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TN2ZM-KYQ9I/AAAAAAAAB-Y/i9WumAPrRIw/s400/apd19.JPG" /></a><br /><br />A very striking Coach at any angle. It was a privilege to bring it back to life. You can click on any photo to see a larger view.<br /><br />We have numerous new arrivals at the showroom. Stop by sometime for a look. We are going to be planning some sort of open house in the near future but have not picked a date as of yet. We’ll keep you posted.<br /><br />Have a great Weekend!<br /><br />Ciao!<br />TToddersvillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04475636917256235974noreply@blogger.com118tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492493573027950856.post-89484858780097092032010-08-20T21:54:00.007-05:002010-08-20T22:03:33.000-05:00Do the Times Compare?It was a time of big changes. The photo is not dated but it probably dates around 1920. Some old car buffs ought to be able to date this one for me. The card is titled Sentinel - Autos at Columbus Wis. At this point the automobile has been solidly cemented as the preferred form of transportation. But it wasn’t too many years prior that photo would have been a street full of buggies.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TG9AQCDcgtI/AAAAAAAAB8w/9-adFZmtFFQ/s1600/b1.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 247px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TG9AQCDcgtI/AAAAAAAAB8w/9-adFZmtFFQ/s400/b1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5507691513470812882" /></a><br /><br />The automobile was a huge mechanical advancement for the average American at that time. Such changes they were witnessing to go from the horse and buggy to a self propelled vehicle. The Wright’s had flown their airplane. What a marvel. Are we in the midst of similar times? It certainly seems that way. There are many difficult transitions taking place today much like the challenges that faced manufacturers at this time. But it lead to a better life for most families. Some my argue that but most agree for American’s easy travel meant easy street. <br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TG9AP_F13iI/AAAAAAAAB8o/pBJwtbB6uos/s1600/b2.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TG9AP_F13iI/AAAAAAAAB8o/pBJwtbB6uos/s400/b2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5507691512675556898" /></a><br /><br />So work on the Portland Door Cutter continues. After the new body panels were in place everything was trimmed and fitted. The new door openings needed to be cut to fit the existing doors which is really kind of touchy. There are a number of compound angles and curves going on so it can be a challenge to get a good fit.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TG9APj-GbuI/AAAAAAAAB8g/jWtH2lcFYJQ/s1600/b3.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TG9APj-GbuI/AAAAAAAAB8g/jWtH2lcFYJQ/s400/b3.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5507691505395330786" /></a><br /><br />The body was then primed in our urethane sanding primer. After priming the body goes through a sanding with 220 before heading back to the booth for the final coats of primer.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TG9AF3x7JpI/AAAAAAAAB8Y/o5tBxoyreSM/s1600/b4.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TG9AF3x7JpI/AAAAAAAAB8Y/o5tBxoyreSM/s400/b4.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5507691338914277010" /></a><br /><br />This photo shows the body after the final sanding ready for paint. The body has been wet sanded with 320 then 600 grit papers. The body is now very smooth, level and ready for a fresh coat of black paint.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TG9AE-fCBBI/AAAAAAAAB8Q/P7rQ0vMTjMI/s1600/b5.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TG9AE-fCBBI/AAAAAAAAB8Q/P7rQ0vMTjMI/s400/b5.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5507691323534214162" /></a><br /><br />The doors are ready for paint as well. <br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TG9ADxLMz9I/AAAAAAAAB8I/juYiTugbFm4/s1600/b6.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TG9ADxLMz9I/AAAAAAAAB8I/juYiTugbFm4/s400/b6.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5507691302781505490" /></a><br /><br />The runners and the springs were painted today. The original sleigh was painted deep maroon on the runners with black paint on the body. All striping was fine line gold so we are matching all the original details. By the next time you see this sleigh the body will be in paint and we will be ready to begin striping.<br /><br />Have a great Weekend!<br /><br />Ciao!<br />TToddersvillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04475636917256235974noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492493573027950856.post-29000611356982631092010-07-20T21:03:00.008-05:002010-07-20T21:15:49.943-05:00Summer Sleigh RideCan you believe we are a month past the longest day of the year? As usual summer is going really fast. We have been very busy working in the shop on a number of different fronts. It’s great to be busy but that always tends to make the summer fly by.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TEZV4zzl7yI/AAAAAAAAB8A/kolqKMoWpNc/s1600/fishing.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 250px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TEZV4zzl7yI/AAAAAAAAB8A/kolqKMoWpNc/s400/fishing.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496174829719908130" /></a><br /><br />Been finding some cool Columbus postcards lately. This one titled Fishing is Good at Columbus, Wis. is a great image. This photo has to be real. It was long before Photoshop. Some nice walleyes being pulled from the Mighty Craw. I’m guessing it’s been a few years since walleyes of that stature have been landed at the local watering hole.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TEZV4Sk2GnI/AAAAAAAAB74/nL-V13QqJ7U/s1600/cutter+1.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TEZV4Sk2GnI/AAAAAAAAB74/nL-V13QqJ7U/s400/cutter+1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496174820799683186" /></a><br /><br />We are well on our way through this project. It is a very attractive Portland Door Cutter that is in need of some serious attention. This sleigh is a Wisconsin family heirloom. I think that is the coolest thing. Family carriages or in this case a sleigh still around to pass through the generations.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TEZV3xJzQ-I/AAAAAAAAB7w/2TbjT15QhO8/s1600/cutter+2.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TEZV3xJzQ-I/AAAAAAAAB7w/2TbjT15QhO8/s400/cutter+2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496174811827880930" /></a><br /><br />We have really ripped into this sleigh over the month of July. If you look closely in the first photo the runners were completely rotted along the bottom in need of replacement. So everything comes apart, blasted replaced and primed in first coat as we see here. All the metal parts, springs and the whole shebang is hanging in the booth.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TEZVv9WnIDI/AAAAAAAAB7o/LmhcvvwMsZM/s1600/cutter+3.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TEZVv9WnIDI/AAAAAAAAB7o/LmhcvvwMsZM/s400/cutter+3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496174677663883314" /></a><br /><br />Don't ask me why this picture is yellow. I'm not sure what's up with that but the camera was not digging the lighting. The body was a bit worse for the wear as well. The dash and back panels were split and delaminating. The side panels were cracked and warped. We took the body down to the main frame and started from scratch. The original area for the doors had warped and the doors no longer fit the openings. It was like the body swelled leaving the door openings larger than the doors and way out of whack. We reshaped the side frame pieces and rough cut new sides.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TEZVvRSx-LI/AAAAAAAAB7g/pDNzFtlEJpI/s1600/cutter+4.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TEZVvRSx-LI/AAAAAAAAB7g/pDNzFtlEJpI/s400/cutter+4.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496174665836656818" /></a><br /><br />The back panel was split and delaminating so we replaced that as well. That was the starting point. Back panel was installed and the sides were then made to fit. The openings for the doors were rough cut then finish cut after the installation of the doors. <br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TEZVvA1RfwI/AAAAAAAAB7Y/cjg9SW1NKpY/s1600/Cutter+5.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TEZVvA1RfwI/AAAAAAAAB7Y/cjg9SW1NKpY/s400/Cutter+5.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496174661417926402" /></a><br /><br />Last but not least came the dash. Today Bob installed a new one. We normally cut the pieces oversized and square as shown here. A rough pattern of the finish dash is drawn on as a guide and then all glued up and fastened. In the morning Bob will remove the screws and cut the dash to the final shape.<br /><br />I had a friend ask me to blog about the Independence Day carriage accident in Iowa. In case you have not heard there was a runaway horse and carriage in a July 4th parade in Bellview IA. One passenger in the vehicle was thrown from the carriage and died from her injuries. Multiple injuries along the route. This accident made big news. There was actually another fatality in Iowa over the 4th with another parade accident. That one didn’t make so much news. To be honest I’m not sure what I think of it. Horses are never 100% predictable. Sometimes shit happens. Sorry to be so nonchalant about that but it might just be an accident and nothing more. Without being there to witness any of this I would tend to believe that to be the case. Interacting with large animals can be dangerous at times. Most things in life worth enjoying involve a certain amount of risk and I guess sitting watching a parade does too. That being said I do hear from a lot of drivers that refuse to drive parades. When you think about the possibilities of a runaway and picture that happening on a street lined with people it is really scary. Can’t say as I blame them.<br /><br />Have a great Wednesday!<br /><br />Ciao!<br />TToddersvillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04475636917256235974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492493573027950856.post-7600141725171033472010-06-22T07:55:00.005-05:002010-06-22T08:22:14.814-05:00Political PressureSo I’m taking some heat from several of my constituents to get back to work blogging. Writing a blog is really quite fun but for some reason my ADHD gets in the way. I can’t remember a report card as a kid that didn’t say “Todd struggles to pay attention”. I get way too many ideas rattling around in this noggin of mine and I’m always compelled to act on all of them. So what have I been up to you ask?<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TCCzlRt4zVI/AAAAAAAAB7I/6jcq-Gzw4BA/s1600/Run.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 259px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TCCzlRt4zVI/AAAAAAAAB7I/6jcq-Gzw4BA/s400/Run.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485581799129664850" /></a><br /><br />Well I started running again. Here is a shot of yours truly ready to run his first 5K in a few years. I’ll have you know that I’ve been told that I look like Superman in running shorts in this photo. So with that I am inspired to run my next 5K in leotards, a Superman shirt, and of course a red cape. See if you can spot me in the lineup.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TCCzlGuFwtI/AAAAAAAAB7A/DZQIGhnSX1w/s1600/Blank+Sleigh+Photo.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 280px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TCCzlGuFwtI/AAAAAAAAB7A/DZQIGhnSX1w/s400/Blank+Sleigh+Photo.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485581796177724114" /></a><br /><br />Remember the Trap Sleigh project that we started on in the last blog? Well it’s done. Damned if I can find the pictures of it but it’s done. So the placeholder above is waiting for me to locate those shots. It came together very quickly and turned out beautifully. As you may recall I had a very tight deadline so we really didn’t have a good chance for a nice photo shoot. I’ll track them down and get back at you on that one.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TCCzki-pT_I/AAAAAAAAB64/LSdXlXGjsRE/s1600/ccc1.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TCCzki-pT_I/AAAAAAAAB64/LSdXlXGjsRE/s400/ccc1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485581786583486450" /></a><br /><br />The Columbus Carriage Classic was this past weekend. That is always a big event for Columbus. We were busy as usual over the course of the weekend although this year I took a huge step back in my obligations to the show. The last eleven years have been a blast but sometimes a person needs a breather. We hosted a party on Saturday evening which was very well attended. Even until the wee hours of the morning. The photo above is by my buddy Rod taken at the 2009 Columbus Carriage Classic.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TCCzIDm9PNI/AAAAAAAAB6w/_r7HUZhZz6A/s1600/Park+Drag.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TCCzIDm9PNI/AAAAAAAAB6w/_r7HUZhZz6A/s400/Park+Drag.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485581297126292690" /></a><br /><br />A big project that rolled out the door since my last blog was this Brewster Park Drag restoration. A spectacular vehicle that we are so proud to have restored. Projects like this are interesting but one thing about them is they seem to go on forever. Details, details, details. Whew.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TCCzHsfwhXI/AAAAAAAAB6o/xO2Uf8SOI2c/s1600/shop.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TCCzHsfwhXI/AAAAAAAAB6o/xO2Uf8SOI2c/s400/shop.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485581290922083698" /></a><br /><br />We’ve spent the last few weeks working on a shop renovation. We were in pretty dire straights for some additional workspace in all areas. Adding on wasn’t in the cards right now so we chose to reorganize and make the most of what we have. Some of you may recall our former showroom at our farm. That building has been very underutilized since our move downtown. We’ve made much better use of that building by creating a new final assembly area there which allowed us to gain a little more metal shop shown above.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TCCzHVPs49I/AAAAAAAAB6g/33nnPOaKXxw/s1600/Time+Machine.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 255px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/TCCzHVPs49I/AAAAAAAAB6g/33nnPOaKXxw/s400/Time+Machine.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485581284680721362" /></a><br /><br />So last on the list has to be The Great American Time Machine Experiment. My friends are pretty aware of the GATME project but there are a whole bunch of you out there that are not. Well, I must say it’s the best idea I’ve had yet. We are going to move forward on that project this year with the GATME festival happening in 2011 in Columbus. Now that I’ve given you enough information to think I’m completely over the edge I think I’ll leave it at that. Maybe tomorrow I’ll expand on this thought to start the momentum.<br /><br />Have a great Tuesday!<br /><br />Ciao!<br />TToddersvillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04475636917256235974noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492493573027950856.post-91694211217841886212010-04-16T12:11:00.007-05:002010-04-16T13:40:19.514-05:00Midwest Horse Fair WeekendThere are not too many equine events in America that rival the Midwest Horse Fair. The event starts today and runs through the weekend in Madison at the Alliant Energy Center. The event attracts over 50,000 spectators over the course of the weekend. If it has anything to do with a horse, it's there. Take a day to hit the fair. It’s quite the experience.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S8iaodSf4rI/AAAAAAAAB6Y/27ucQqvreeE/s1600/b1.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S8iaodSf4rI/AAAAAAAAB6Y/27ucQqvreeE/s400/b1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460784568034386610" /></a><br /><br />The Mustang Marathon is another one of the available options in our WCC lineup. This Mustang single horse marathon is FEI in weight and width. Weight is 350 lbs. It is priced at $7,995 including shafts. It performs as great as it looks.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S8ian65F4XI/AAAAAAAAB6Q/5KkvQ3u9bdM/s1600/b2.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S8ian65F4XI/AAAAAAAAB6Q/5KkvQ3u9bdM/s400/b2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460784558801019250" /></a><br /><br />Our Trap Sleigh project is in pieces. The body is really solid other than a couple of cracked panels that are being replaced. As you can see we have the lions share of the body stripped. We have some areas that will go into hard coat sealer and we should have the body in primer early next week.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S8ianq-UFPI/AAAAAAAAB6I/3Ja-Qt4JLIs/s1600/b3.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S8ianq-UFPI/AAAAAAAAB6I/3Ja-Qt4JLIs/s400/b3.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460784554527954162" /></a><br /><br />The front seat sections that flip upward have been removed and stripped as well. This is the left side seat. They are in nice solid condition. Bob has the dings and nicks filled with polyester and this part is ready for primer.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S8iadIPX5MI/AAAAAAAAB6A/ExS-2DCPL9o/s1600/b4.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S8iadIPX5MI/AAAAAAAAB6A/ExS-2DCPL9o/s400/b4.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460784373405574338" /></a><br /><br />This is the other side. It has been pretty much stripped and as you can see has some very nice detail. The louvered panels really add a lot of dimension to the vehicle. The rounded top of that side panel was a fairly typical detail on Traps such as this.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S8iac_5pgVI/AAAAAAAAB54/NG4efDivAcY/s1600/b5.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S8iac_5pgVI/AAAAAAAAB54/NG4efDivAcY/s400/b5.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460784371166970194" /></a><br /><br />All of the wood parts needed for upholstery have been stripped and are ready for primer. As I mentioned the other day our plan is getting all the parts that are upholstered in paint first. That way we will be working on upholstery as the rest of the project moves along.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S8iacRJ-cZI/AAAAAAAAB5w/WmLWQV-uZPY/s1600/b6.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S8iacRJ-cZI/AAAAAAAAB5w/WmLWQV-uZPY/s400/b6.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460784358618984850" /></a><br /><br />The runners are coming along nicely. They are just about completely stripped. The other side of the dash still has paint on that needs to be removed. By the end of the day on Monday I would think that should be ready for primer too.<br /><br />While you are traveling to and from the Horse Fair stop by our showroom. We are a little over a half an hour from the Horse Fair site. Sounds like it will be a lovely weekend in Wisconsin.<br /><br />Have a great weekend!<br /><br />Ciao!<br />TToddersvillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04475636917256235974noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492493573027950856.post-85108511031561531152010-04-12T12:52:00.009-05:002010-04-12T18:47:16.744-05:00The Season Is Upon UsIf you have not had the chance lately take a look at our website. We have just completed a pretty serious redux and I’m quite pleased with it. We are adding some new features that we will be expanded as time goes by. We have included a new video page with some of our favorites. You can find that on the main menu. Speaking of video Tim Maloy has another new one out called Montage. Kind of a collage of 2009 competition in slow motion. Very cool and I have attached it below for your viewing pleasure.<br /><br /><object width="400" height="225"><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /><param name="movie" value="http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=10181894&server=vimeo.com&show_title=0&show_byline=0&show_portrait=0&color=ffffff&fullscreen=1" /><embed src="http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=10181894&server=vimeo.com&show_title=0&show_byline=0&show_portrait=0&color=ffffff&fullscreen=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="400" height="225"></embed></object><p><a href="http://vimeo.com/10181894">Driving Montage</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/timmaloy">Tim Maloy</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.</p>Now that I have you all fired up about the 2010 driving season you will need a new vehicle too. We are in the process of building up our WCC inventory so keep watch for new arrivals. We are putting together a container as we speak and at this point we are focusing on the WCC Mustang lineup.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S8NfbQkY5OI/AAAAAAAAB5o/_0GqNeAqu7A/s1600/b1.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S8NfbQkY5OI/AAAAAAAAB5o/_0GqNeAqu7A/s400/b1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459312095211873506" /></a><br /><br />We are a few months out on receipt of our container but we will be bringing in some new inventory a little sooner than that. Shown above is the Mustang M200 Compact Wagonette. Coming in at 440 pounds this vehicle works well for both singles and pairs. Shown with pneumatic tires it’s also available with solid rubber tires. It sells complete with your choice of pole or shafts for $7,995. Equipped with both for and additional $550 and set up with two sets of wheels for an additional $1,200. This carriage is an ideal combination training, pleasure and marathon carriage.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S8NfbPzzXvI/AAAAAAAAB5g/0dRJeZKKK0w/s1600/b2.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S8NfbPzzXvI/AAAAAAAAB5g/0dRJeZKKK0w/s400/b2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459312095008087794" /></a><br /><br />As the week progresses I post more photos of the WCC Marathon carriages. Meanwhile back the ranch we are just in the process of diving into the Trap Sleigh restoration. The seats have been removed and we are in the early process of removing all the metal parts for blasting.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S8Nfakxg-1I/AAAAAAAAB5Y/JhND6WMgTVk/s1600/b3.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S8Nfakxg-1I/AAAAAAAAB5Y/JhND6WMgTVk/s400/b3.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459312083455769426" /></a><br /><br />Our schedule is pretty tight on this project. We have a little less than six weeks to pull this project from here to the finished restoration. Part of the plan is beginning with the seats so we can get at the upholstery while the guys at the shop are still working on the rest. The seats have been pulled out, cushions removed and paint stripping will begin tomorrow.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S8NfaTcr1sI/AAAAAAAAB5Q/kUwJxYPNNUI/s1600/b4.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S8NfaTcr1sI/AAAAAAAAB5Q/kUwJxYPNNUI/s400/b4.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459312078804997826" /></a><br /><br />This is the rein rail and the arm rests removed form the body. These parts will be plated and so they are going to be shipped off this week.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S8NfZ8NzZjI/AAAAAAAAB5I/wUuQ0Pls0WY/s1600/b5.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S8NfZ8NzZjI/AAAAAAAAB5I/wUuQ0Pls0WY/s400/b5.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459312072568563250" /></a><br /><br />In the trim shop Ryanne is going ahead pulling together what she can so she is ready to upholster as soon as parts are ready. The existing fabric was a green wool broadcloth which we will be matching both in fabric and color. She has sewn up enough piping and webbing to trim out all the seat cushions.<br /><br />Other than that a pretty uneventful weekend. Worked around home on Saturday and picked up a load of hay on Sunday. What a great way to spend a sunny Sunday afternoon. Loading hay. woohoo.<br /><br />Have a great Monday!<br /><br />Ciao!<br />TToddersvillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04475636917256235974noreply@blogger.com44tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492493573027950856.post-66034951164123061762010-04-07T13:17:00.012-05:002010-04-07T20:18:49.341-05:00Slow Boil Just A Simmering AwayThe atmosphere in little ol’ Columbus is running at a slow boil. I like that. A steady slow boil. It is such a change of pace from where we have been. From ice cold to boiling over the pot and spilling all over the place. For years our little town was a political hot potato. Fighting, name calling, kicking people out of office, and just a whole lot of negative energy being spent unproductively. Of course the television stations in Madison just loved the ruckus. Always knew there was something happening at City Hall when the satellite truck was parked out front. Of course there are always unhappy people in any community. Always finding something wrong with whatever is going on at any given time. But Columbus is changing for the better.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S7zMm4aOi1I/AAAAAAAAB4Y/YyvDqsLvLf4/s1600/b0.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S7zMm4aOi1I/AAAAAAAAB4Y/YyvDqsLvLf4/s400/b0.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457461816815684434" /></a><br /><br />It strikes me that City Hall has a vision. Very little positive can happen without a vision for the future. I can’t say as I have really felt that way until now. Projects are moving forward. People are communicating effectively and harmony is much more prevalent. Speaking of projects our City Council approved a resolution last night to support a major downtown redevelopment concept proposed by the CDA. This is a huge step in the right direction for the betterment of the entire City. Hat’s off to the CDA, Council and City Administration for taking this project forward. With all this forward thought I decided to share a photo of the downtown from sometime in the 40’s I would guess. What a great image.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S7zMmetZLjI/AAAAAAAAB4Q/crATcg3fUcU/s1600/b1.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S7zMmetZLjI/AAAAAAAAB4Q/crATcg3fUcU/s400/b1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457461809916751410" /></a><br /><br />So what’s on deck? We are starting in on this nice little Trap Sleigh. This unique and elegant cutter was practical, functional and attractive all at the same time. If you look at the above photo it shows this nice sporty two person sleigh.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S7zMmIeqMSI/AAAAAAAAB4I/v3N60qwL1lQ/s1600/b2.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S7zMmIeqMSI/AAAAAAAAB4I/v3N60qwL1lQ/s400/b2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457461803949371682" /></a><br /><br />From the rear it has a nice deck lid but if you look closely there are some joints in the back deck.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S7zMdACsPUI/AAAAAAAAB4A/dv5mBQTy3F4/s1600/b3.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S7zMdACsPUI/AAAAAAAAB4A/dv5mBQTy3F4/s400/b3.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457461647065759042" /></a><br /><br />Here we see the essence of a Trap. There are Trap carriages and Trap sleighs all though I’ve seen much more of the carriage variety over the years. This sleigh has very attractive lines and here we see how it all functions. Both sides of the body swing upward to create an opening to the rear seat. The rear deck folds up as well to create that rear seat.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S7zMc6_KvdI/AAAAAAAAB34/GH0v0TvStiw/s1600/b4.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S7zMc6_KvdI/AAAAAAAAB34/GH0v0TvStiw/s400/b4.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457461645708803538" /></a><br /><br />This is what the sleigh looks like in its four passenger variation. The term Trap is derived from your inability to exit from the rear seat once you are seated. Basically you are trapped until someone up front lets you out.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S7zMcrqbkEI/AAAAAAAAB3w/GlYjY3JZ-kg/s1600/b5.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S7zMcrqbkEI/AAAAAAAAB3w/GlYjY3JZ-kg/s400/b5.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457461641595293762" /></a><br /><br />Some very nice details to this piece. All of which will be recreated as we complete the restoration. We will be following this project pretty closely over the next few weeks so I hope you enjoy the process.<br /><br />Check out our website. We have given it a new look and I will be adding some interesting features over the next month or two. We have also added a new domain www.freycarriage.com. The old www.colonialcarriage.com still works and will for some time to come. Changing the name of a business is a long process. Things are slow boiling at Frey Carriage Company too as spring comes in early.<br /><br />Have a great Wednesday!<br /><br />Ciao!<br />TToddersvillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04475636917256235974noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492493573027950856.post-47466787284260956442010-04-02T10:24:00.005-05:002010-04-02T10:30:00.590-05:00Columbus First National BankHow in the world did I end up liking history? Is that something that just comes with age or what? Maybe it’s a connection with something tangible. I’m not sure but when I was a kid history was the most dreaded class of the entire day. Could not stand it and could see little point in studying things of the past. Of course in High School I could see no point in studying about much of anything for that matter so go figure.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S7YMnxdcZ_I/AAAAAAAAB3o/aXCzyXT6_jQ/s1600/b1.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 251px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S7YMnxdcZ_I/AAAAAAAAB3o/aXCzyXT6_jQ/s400/b1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455561876037199858" /></a><br /><br />This is a historic shot of the First National Bank Building in Downtown Columbus. I’m really not prepared to write anything of substance about this today but I really need to pull together all the loose ends I have about this building. It has an interesting history both as a bank and in the afterlife since. I’m thinking it’s been close to twenty years since it has been a bank. It is currently vacant but something cool is going to happen here in 2010 one way or another. There are a couple of new things waiting in the wings for this old building and either way it will be fun.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S7YMnRRrzHI/AAAAAAAAB3g/UaSsF5Xx8pY/s1600/b2.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S7YMnRRrzHI/AAAAAAAAB3g/UaSsF5Xx8pY/s400/b2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455561867397942386" /></a><br /><br />We restored this sleigh last year for a client in Pennsylvania. It was a local treasure from a prominent family in their area and we were proud to bring it back to life.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S7YMnaBb4CI/AAAAAAAAB3Y/DduiMcz5U9w/s1600/b3.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S7YMnaBb4CI/AAAAAAAAB3Y/DduiMcz5U9w/s400/b3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455561869745709090" /></a><br /><br />Like most projects it starts with reducing it to a heap. Everything comes apart. The wood runners were solid but if you look closely you can see the upper dash support is broken. That particular break needed to be addressed before we installed the new dash.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S7YMgX_RamI/AAAAAAAAB3Q/HgC91PTvRBE/s1600/b4.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S7YMgX_RamI/AAAAAAAAB3Q/HgC91PTvRBE/s400/b4.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455561748940679778" /></a><br /><br />The outer skin of the body was in really sad condition. We ended up replacing the majority of it using the original for patterns. Here we have the body in hard coat sealer awaiting the first sanding.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S7YMf7x2J5I/AAAAAAAAB3I/2xzf17NkZO8/s1600/b5.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S7YMf7x2J5I/AAAAAAAAB3I/2xzf17NkZO8/s400/b5.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455561741368174482" /></a><br /><br />The sleigh turned out beautifully. The original colors were black and maroon which we matched. The patterns of the original mohair upholstery were matched in the new upholstery as well.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S7YMfWhYezI/AAAAAAAAB3A/QDq9xqOt5LM/s1600/b6.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S7YMfWhYezI/AAAAAAAAB3A/QDq9xqOt5LM/s400/b6.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455561731367009074" /></a><br /><br />A cream stripe really set it off. There were remnants of original striping still in place which we duplicated. The sleigh was delivered just in time for Christmas and it spent the winter in their home next to the fireplace.<br /><br />Was 80 degrees in Wisconsin yesterday and more of the same today. It is surprisingly dry though for this time of year. It sounds as though there may be a little rain on the way for tomorrow which will be nice. It will be the first official warm rain of the season. That should put the grass into overdrive.<br /><br />Have a great Weekend!<br /><br />Ciao!<br />TToddersvillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04475636917256235974noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492493573027950856.post-37362833112073761562010-04-01T11:35:00.012-05:002010-04-01T12:27:55.858-05:00So What’s New?Well quite a bit I guess. There is a lot of energy developing in little ol’ Columbus on a number of fronts. First is the renewing interest in the historic downtown. Like many small towns the heart of Columbus has been battered and bruised. Many people including ourselves have committed ourselves to the preservation and redevelopment of the downtown. The City as a whole along with City Government and the CDA appear to be on the cusp of a substantial downtown redevelopment project that would be a big step in the right direction. That is really exciting.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S7TLuAaClbI/AAAAAAAAB24/sVuOAEFC8fw/s1600/b1.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S7TLuAaClbI/AAAAAAAAB24/sVuOAEFC8fw/s400/b1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455209039896155570" /></a><br /><br />Carriages and driving are another big topic in Columbus. Over the years the Columbus Carriage Classic has been a signature carriage event for our community. Since that time a winter sleigh rally has been developed and coming on Memorial Day weekend a carriage driving clinic. Numerous clinics will be hosted at the newly formed Midwest Equestrian Center in Columbus. You can find more information at <a href="http://www.midwestequestriancenter.com">www.midwestequestriancenter.com.</a><br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S7TLt9Lo9aI/AAAAAAAAB2w/3bZnJhObTt8/s1600/b2.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S7TLt9Lo9aI/AAAAAAAAB2w/3bZnJhObTt8/s400/b2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455209039030449570" /></a><br /><br />There are some new arrivals here as well. The very top photo is a replica of a Brewster Dos a Dos Phaeton built by Frey Carriage Company. It was shown successfully for one season and is now a trade on another new vehicle. It’s in like new condition and sells complete with shafts and lamps for $7,995. The photo above is an Extension Top Surrey in recently restored condition. It is a very solid carriage, looks beautiful and is all ready to drive. It sells complete with pole, shafts and lamps for $2,995.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S7TLtvIE8dI/AAAAAAAAB2o/FulSMAU-hdw/s1600/b3.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S7TLtvIE8dI/AAAAAAAAB2o/FulSMAU-hdw/s400/b3.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455209035257410002" /></a><br /><br />This Spider Phaeton is as beautiful a vehicle of it’s type that I have seen. It epitomizes the elegance and beauty of a traditional Spider Phaeton. It was built by Flandrau & Company of New York, NY. It is wearing an older restoration that could be turned out or also could be a good candidate for complete restoration. The lamps are modern reproduction. It sells complete with shafts, splinter bar, no pole but includes the lamps at $27,500.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S7TLkIk-CZI/AAAAAAAAB2g/wGHFKOUYaHM/s1600/b4.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S7TLkIk-CZI/AAAAAAAAB2g/wGHFKOUYaHM/s400/b4.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455208870290786706" /></a><br /><br />Here we have a very nice original Extension Top Surrey. It is rock solid with beautiful original leather upholstery in excellent condition. It could use a new top as you can see but that is something that the professionals at Frey carriage Company can restore. The dash and fenders are all original. A nice carriage with shafts and original electric lamps for $1,795.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S7TLj2mJYYI/AAAAAAAAB2Y/mNCiT2MMg3w/s1600/b5.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S7TLj2mJYYI/AAAAAAAAB2Y/mNCiT2MMg3w/s400/b5.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455208865463886210" /></a><br /><br />And lastly this very early and rare single horse Chaise. Perfectly restored with full leather top and upholstery. Body slung on leather. This rare carriage would make for an excellent investment for your carriage collection. It sells complete as shown for $13,995.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S7TLjhhfFRI/AAAAAAAAB2Q/vtIQcWalxp4/s1600/Badger+Logo.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 309px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S7TLjhhfFRI/AAAAAAAAB2Q/vtIQcWalxp4/s400/Badger+Logo.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455208859807192338" /></a><br /><br />One more interesting Columbus tidbit. I am just fascinated by the Badger Motor Car Company. This business was formed late in 1909 and folded by the end of 1912. In those three years it set out to manufacture automobiles and that they did. Unfortunately they could not survive the long haul but the short history of the company is a who’s who of local Columbus lore. In celebration of the 100th Anniversary of the production of their first vehicle I have developed a commemorative logo that we are using on T shirts and other clothing items. We will have these items available at the showroom along with a growing history of the Badger Motor Car Company.<br /><br />Have a great Thursday!<br /><br />Ciao!<br />TToddersvillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04475636917256235974noreply@blogger.com227tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492493573027950856.post-11078483539320649732010-03-16T14:08:00.010-05:002010-03-16T14:26:48.180-05:00Another Dandy DayIt’s a great day to be outside taking some pictures. But before I get to that I attended the Community Development Association meeting last night. Lots of positive things happening in Columbus these days. My friend Steve Sobiek our Economic Development Director has been a busy guy. Steve’s position is both Economic and Energy Sustainability and he certainly has been putting Columbus on the map as a leader in green energy.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S5_XrPRxMYI/AAAAAAAAB2I/OHr7F7K50aI/s1600-h/b1.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S5_XrPRxMYI/AAAAAAAAB2I/OHr7F7K50aI/s400/b1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449311211976995202" /></a><br /><br />The media likes anything green these days so Steve has been a popular fellow. This month he is featured in Wisconsin Builder magazine showing off the groundbreaking projects that he has in the works. In other CDA news Columbus was just awarded an LED Street Light grant. This grant will make Columbus one of the first cities in America to convert its street lights over to LED. This is just a couple of the projects he has in the hopper. Steve is one person making a big difference.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S5_XqmrhUDI/AAAAAAAAB2A/DMXrFxSYSes/s1600-h/b2.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S5_XqmrhUDI/AAAAAAAAB2A/DMXrFxSYSes/s400/b2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449311201079152690" /></a><br /><br />We thought it would be a good day to pull the Show Gig out for some pictures. It is nearing the finish line and turning out just lovely. It is black and maroon with a gold stripe and tan wool broadcloth upholstery. A rich combination.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S5_XqJd5ewI/AAAAAAAAB14/PuL_HK8Kexo/s1600-h/b3.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S5_XqJd5ewI/AAAAAAAAB14/PuL_HK8Kexo/s400/b3.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449311193237388034" /></a><br /><br />The body is traditionally built with the rear chamfer on the back deck and louvers on the body side panels.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S5_XgcPTMHI/AAAAAAAAB1w/iQ6suWQw-t0/s1600-h/b4.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S5_XgcPTMHI/AAAAAAAAB1w/iQ6suWQw-t0/s400/b4.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449311026477740146" /></a><br /><br />The two tone black and maroon body make for a nice subtle contrast with the fine gold stripe.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S5_XfVzhBgI/AAAAAAAAB1o/Mw2xNkzy-0I/s1600-h/b5.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S5_XfVzhBgI/AAAAAAAAB1o/Mw2xNkzy-0I/s400/b5.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449311007570724354" /></a><br /><br />The wheels feature roller bearing hubs with solid brass caps. <br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S5_Xe1FWUsI/AAAAAAAAB1g/FeaiEE9ZA-Y/s1600-h/b6.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S5_Xe1FWUsI/AAAAAAAAB1g/FeaiEE9ZA-Y/s400/b6.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449310998787150530" /></a><br /><br />Looks great from any angle. At this point the only thing we are waiting for are the lamps. A nice pair of black and brass rectangular lamps with polished nickel interiors. The one thing left to set off this great carriage.<br /><br />Get out and enjoy the weather. Sounds like it’s going to be cooling down again this weekend. Have a great Tuesday!<br /><br />Ciao!<br />TToddersvillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04475636917256235974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492493573027950856.post-88871777817903897102010-03-15T09:38:00.013-05:002010-03-15T23:03:49.708-05:00Summer Has Arrived!Was yesterday nice or what? At least in our little part of Wisconsin it was. Two weeks ago we had a foot of snow on the ground and snow banks everyplace. For all practical purposes it’s gone. Few little chucks of ice here and there but it has disappeared in a big hurry. It was pushing 60 degrees yesterday afternoon. Same for today. After a typical Wisconsin winter an early warm up in March is most welcome.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S55HghUkMGI/AAAAAAAAB1Y/BWQR1rkHhd0/s1600-h/b1.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S55HghUkMGI/AAAAAAAAB1Y/BWQR1rkHhd0/s400/b1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448871223190892642" /></a><br /><br />We are getting a lot of great new (antique, but new to us) vehicles in these days. One of them is this single horse Chaise which is pronounced “shay”. This is a pretty early vehicle. Maybe pushing a couple of hundred years old. They were made in Europe as well as in the early American states. This type of carriage was built before steel springs where commonplace so the body is suspended on leather.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S55HfxqI3DI/AAAAAAAAB1Q/20615mvmjbc/s1600-h/b2.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S55HfxqI3DI/AAAAAAAAB1Q/20615mvmjbc/s400/b2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448871210396474418" /></a><br /><br />This particular carriage was restored in Europe a few years back. It is beautifully done in traditional high gloss brush paint. The top and the upholstery are all done in genuine leather. These vehicles are a popular collector carriages because of the early construction. This one is ready to go and priced at $13,995.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S55GxKw7w8I/AAAAAAAAB1I/3kigxpme478/s1600-h/b3.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S55GxKw7w8I/AAAAAAAAB1I/3kigxpme478/s400/b3.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448870409682011074" /></a><br /><br />Out at the shop Bob has been working on an early Country Sleigh. It came to us pretty much intact but as we were taking it apart the wood was marginal in more areas than not. We ended up replacing most of the wood on the body which in the long run was easier.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S55GwYWaqgI/AAAAAAAAB1A/xkfMOfk6C9g/s1600-h/b4.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S55GwYWaqgI/AAAAAAAAB1A/xkfMOfk6C9g/s400/b4.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448870396149017090" /></a><br /><br />It’s a pretty simple body and chassis. An early and probably locally built form of transportation. We ended up replacing the dash as well. Here it is in first coat primer.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S55Gv1CZmZI/AAAAAAAAB04/9CUKDdYiFsw/s1600-h/b5.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S55Gv1CZmZI/AAAAAAAAB04/9CUKDdYiFsw/s400/b5.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448870386669820306" /></a><br /><br />The runners are fairly heavy construction. I think the bottom runners are probably 1½” square which is pretty chunky compared to some of the light cutters. This was more than likely a farm sleigh and was heavy duty enough to handle any kind of work you could throw at it. As of this week it’s getting pretty close to being ready for paint. <br /><br />Have a great Monday!<br /><br />Ciao!<br />TToddersvillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04475636917256235974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492493573027950856.post-51989518477236226042010-03-03T12:17:00.025-06:002010-03-03T18:21:41.595-06:00New Name, New Vision, New ImageWe have been Colonial Carriage Works for a long time. I’ve been rather so-so with that name for just about as long. After all I was twenty years younger when I came up with that. I guess I thought it was cool at the time. There were a lot of things that I thought were cool twenty years ago that I’m not so sure about anymore. The biggest difficulty in building a business around a name like that is the lack of brand identity. It might be OK for a shop but not for a product. It’s been an issue for a long time not to mention that there is really nothing Colonial about us.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S46n-Ubby6I/AAAAAAAAB0w/Kq5iZ1xCPQ0/s1600-h/b1.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 350px; height: 354px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S46n-Ubby6I/AAAAAAAAB0w/Kq5iZ1xCPQ0/s400/b1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444473688615013282" /></a><br /><br />So we are at the point where we are making a big change. It’s been passively in the works for several years but we are stepping up and making the move. We are officially Frey Carriage Company. We have grand plans for the future beyond a name change and I look forward to bringing them all to life. Some will happen fast and some things will evolve over time but the new image and vision will be great fun to develop. Above is our new logo concept. I think it’s very close to the finished product. I initially set out to create something a bit more contemporary. As time passed and things came together it just seemed to loose that “classic” feel that I was also after. I like the simplicity and clean elegance this conveys.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S46n9_UKBxI/AAAAAAAAB0o/dFdjL9EgcSk/s1600-h/b2.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S46n9_UKBxI/AAAAAAAAB0o/dFdjL9EgcSk/s400/b2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444473682947344146" /></a><br /><br />All of the carriages that we produce will carry the FREY tag. It has been our brand for a couple of years now but making the full commitment will streamline our overall image. We are fully investing ourselves into our future with new products the likes of pleasure carts like the Sprint lineup, to all new marathon carriages, to hand built traditional coaches. I feel strongly there is a place in America for a contemporary world class coach builder. We hope you enjoy watching our evolution. The last twenty years of creating this business has been a great life experience. I’m looking forward to another great twenty years holding the lines of Frey Carriage Company.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S46n2Yj9wWI/AAAAAAAAB0g/2n5b23lnbOo/s1600-h/b3.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S46n2Yj9wWI/AAAAAAAAB0g/2n5b23lnbOo/s400/b3.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444473552285581666" /></a><br /><br />We have been very busy working on several project back at the shop. The Show Gig project continues to grow ever closer to completion. The body will be painted in black and maroon. The black base coat and first coats of clear have been shot at this point.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S46n2H7JIHI/AAAAAAAAB0Y/6YhreVGqmGA/s1600-h/b4.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S46n2H7JIHI/AAAAAAAAB0Y/6YhreVGqmGA/s400/b4.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444473547819393138" /></a><br /><br />After that cured we wet sand the entire body to prepare for the maroon. This shot was taken just after that process. We are now masking out all of the areas that will remain black. The maroon will be sprayed, the black will be un-masked and the entire body will be coated again in high solids clear. After a few stripes it will be ready to place in the chassis.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S46n19TQSCI/AAAAAAAAB0Q/N6tmRbpb-jI/s1600-h/b5.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S46n19TQSCI/AAAAAAAAB0Q/N6tmRbpb-jI/s400/b5.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444473544967735330" /></a><br /><br />The chassis has been painted, striped, trimmed and ready to roll. The wheels are also ready to install. The maroon color looks nice in contrast with the black trim and gold stripes.<br /><br />Back at the ranch we are beginning to see the early signs of spring. Still lots of snow on the ground but it’s in the 30’s today and 40’s later in the week. The sun is out and it all feels great.<br /><br />Have a great Wednesday!<br /><br />Ciao!<br />TToddersvillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04475636917256235974noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492493573027950856.post-31830435876817955942010-02-19T08:33:00.011-06:002010-02-19T09:35:06.469-06:00The All New SprintI love the sun this time of year. You can begin to feel the warmth that will soon be melting the big snow. Although it's still only February you can begin to feel that spring is not all that far off. On these bright sunny days I just want to be out soaking it up. A great February feeling.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S36hwsTstuI/AAAAAAAAB0I/aceF8MUFN0o/s1600-h/b1.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S36hwsTstuI/AAAAAAAAB0I/aceF8MUFN0o/s400/b1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439963257809712866" /></a><br /><br />So it was way back in January that I posted this shot of the new Sprint frame. Well we’ve been busting tail ever since on a number of different fronts and below are the first shots of the finished product.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S36hwdIuQKI/AAAAAAAAB0A/tLyV6x2Y6z8/s1600-h/b2.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S36hwdIuQKI/AAAAAAAAB0A/tLyV6x2Y6z8/s400/b2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439963253737144482" /></a><br /><br />We’ve been building the Sprint for about five years now and it was time for a little update. I think we accomplished a lot with the new design. It’s really stylish, stronger and a little bit lighter to boot. <br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S36hwP3evTI/AAAAAAAABz4/yQDlYUqtIuk/s1600-h/b3.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S36hwP3evTI/AAAAAAAABz4/yQDlYUqtIuk/s400/b3.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439963250175163698" /></a><br /><br />Like always the seat is easy to adjust with the pull of a lever. The balance is also adjustable at the axle and the height can be adjusted at the main frame.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S36hjmcEr4I/AAAAAAAABzw/U-fLMNFhJMI/s1600-h/b4.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S36hjmcEr4I/AAAAAAAABzw/U-fLMNFhJMI/s400/b4.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439963032895926146" /></a><br /><br />The finish is powder coat over our steel frame. This cart is wearing the optional red wheels which are a new feature this go round.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S36hjjGSmnI/AAAAAAAABzo/W0DiabxXvE4/s1600-h/b5.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S36hjjGSmnI/AAAAAAAABzo/W0DiabxXvE4/s400/b5.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439963031999257202" /></a><br /><br />The shafts are removable for storage or transportation. That tends to be one of the first questions we are asked about this carriage.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S36hjD3IxNI/AAAAAAAABzg/FVdw71pRzbs/s1600-h/b6.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S36hjD3IxNI/AAAAAAAABzg/FVdw71pRzbs/s400/b6.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439963023614198994" /></a><br /><br />We have Sprints in production as we speak. We have a couple available for immediate delivery and will have many more ready to roll in March. You will find it to be a great cart for training and pleasure driving. There are numerous options available and I’m happy to tell you all about it.<br /><br />Just polished off a tasty breakfast. Cheryl whipped up an egg scramble with some aged cheddar then smothered in her famous black bean salsa with our favorite a fresh cilantro garnish. We are finding that we like cilantro with just about everything. Top it off with a good strong cup (or 10) of coffee and I am set to run.<br /><br />Have a great Friday!<br /><br />Ciao!<br />TToddersvillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04475636917256235974noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492493573027950856.post-40019375657506426292010-01-28T20:17:00.004-06:002010-01-28T20:26:26.352-06:00Daily Breakfast MenuToast Jelly and Cheese. Now don’t ask me why I’m on this breakfast kick but I am. That is really one of my all time favorite everyday breakfasts. We have some nice homemade-ish cherry preserves. Extra sharp cheddar and a grainy toast. Tough to beat for breakfast or an afternoon coffee break.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S2JFqDyQEbI/AAAAAAAABzY/ohSgrNoFrwE/s1600-h/b1.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S2JFqDyQEbI/AAAAAAAABzY/ohSgrNoFrwE/s400/b1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431980689435136434" /></a><br /><br />Ryanne started on the Show Gig upholstery this week. At this point she is working through the flat cushion. The back will be next once the seat frame is painted black. As you can see we are going with a really attractive medium tan wool broadcloth. It is trimmed with black piping and lots of buttons. I really like that look and it was traditional to see that treatment on antique carriages.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S2JFp6Lj3hI/AAAAAAAABzQ/0_IVJJHrWno/s1600-h/b2.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S2JFp6Lj3hI/AAAAAAAABzQ/0_IVJJHrWno/s400/b2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431980686856936978" /></a><br /><br />The chassis went into final coat primer yesterday and today Brandon worked on final sanding. He is coming along pretty good and looks to be almost done. Once he finishes up sanding this portion will be ready to paint. <br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S2JFjrrU16I/AAAAAAAABzI/I52xBhkxu_Y/s1600-h/b3.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S2JFjrrU16I/AAAAAAAABzI/I52xBhkxu_Y/s400/b3.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431980579884423074" /></a><br /><br />Here you can see how the final sanding looks up close. As you can see we don’t go through the primer this time. If you look back to the first sanding you will notice sanding through the primer in numerous areas as we block sand which levels the primer and surface.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S2JFjJhxb_I/AAAAAAAABzA/WJIa1r3II0k/s1600-h/b4.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S2JFjJhxb_I/AAAAAAAABzA/WJIa1r3II0k/s400/b4.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431980570717548530" /></a><br /><br />Here are the beginnings of the parts that are ready to paint. I think Dale said he will be shooting some of those parts tomorrow.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S2JFi2DyfPI/AAAAAAAABy4/zjZbHzZ3Qzc/s1600-h/b5.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S2JFi2DyfPI/AAAAAAAABy4/zjZbHzZ3Qzc/s400/b5.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431980565491514610" /></a><br /><br />Back in the fab shop we have the first Sprint cart frame together. This is our new design and we still have a few welding jig modifications to update. It’s a great looking frame and I’m confident will continue to be a hot selling vehicle.<br /><br />Busy day today. It has been very busy for January. Today was one of those days that fly by with numerous customers, phone calls and work to accomplish in the shop. It’s been hectic most of the month. It is great to be busy and I’m optimistic that is a sign of good things to come in the new year.<br /><br />Have a great Friday!<br /><br />Ciao!<br />TToddersvillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04475636917256235974noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492493573027950856.post-41029560078903437002010-01-27T19:33:00.010-06:002010-01-27T19:51:48.875-06:00Ye Olde ColumbusBiscuits and gravy with an egg on top. That was breakfast this morning. I know not healthy but man it’s good. Make the egg over easy and that is about as good a way to start the day as anything. I like egg. I like biscuits. I like gravy. Put them together and now you’ve really got something.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S2DpyPnZ02I/AAAAAAAAByw/KyNn8VK3UCc/s1600-h/january+2010a.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 253px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S2DpyPnZ02I/AAAAAAAAByw/KyNn8VK3UCc/s400/january+2010a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431598200003351394" /></a><br /><br />This is a postcard that I have yet to see. Click it. I think this is a really great shot taken at the Fireman’s Park. The building is the Rest Haven but look at the cannon! Is that cool or what? Wonder what happened to that thing? I think I need to have a little talk with Jack Rhodes. Jack is the official cannon builder for the City of Columbus and I think he needs to replicate that thing.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S2Dpx53tmcI/AAAAAAAAByo/6XyaDyC9QvE/s1600-h/january+2010b.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 251px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S2Dpx53tmcI/AAAAAAAAByo/6XyaDyC9QvE/s400/january+2010b.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431598194166176194" /></a><br /><br />Below the Dam in Columbus. If I really studied this I suppose I could figure out just where it was taken. Maybe someone else knows but it must be down by River Road someplace.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S2Dpr2odKcI/AAAAAAAAByg/ARSStciEQXs/s1600-h/january+2010c.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 254px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S2Dpr2odKcI/AAAAAAAAByg/ARSStciEQXs/s400/january+2010c.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431598090217662914" /></a><br /><br />Now this is the former High School. I think this is now what’s called Dickason School. There is an older portion that is still in place and in use. I’m pretty sure this is it.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S2DprrZTfnI/AAAAAAAAByY/ue0mXbNH8oM/s1600-h/january+2010d.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 236px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S2DprrZTfnI/AAAAAAAAByY/ue0mXbNH8oM/s400/january+2010d.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431598087201324658" /></a><br /><br />The Library. I really like the Columbus Library building. Good architecture that has stood the test of time. It is a Carnegie Library and carries the name Williams Free Library. One of 1,689 public libraries built in the United States funded by Andrew Carnegie.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S2DprjeBs1I/AAAAAAAAByQ/pu-Y5kd5qb8/s1600-h/january+2010e.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 246px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S2DprjeBs1I/AAAAAAAAByQ/pu-Y5kd5qb8/s400/january+2010e.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431598085073646418" /></a><br /><br />And finally a bird’s eye view of Columbus. These photos seemed to have been really popular back at the turn of the century. Everyone must have been fascinated by flight at that time. I'm guessing this one was taken from atop the smoke stack at the canning factory. I'm thinking Rod should replicate this photo by scaling the old stack. It's still there and looks fairly sturdy to me.<br /><br />We planned to begin our more interesting life tonight. Head to Madison for dinner and enjoy a night out. Before I knew it I looked at the clock. It was 7:00 and I was still in the shop cutting parts. Maybe tomorrow we’ll start our interesting life.<br /><br />Have a great Thursday!<br /><br />Ciao!<br />TToddersvillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04475636917256235974noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492493573027950856.post-63618573212402196582010-01-26T21:36:00.008-06:002010-01-26T21:43:36.261-06:00Blogger’s Block 2010I’m running out of good material. I need to start living a more exciting life so I have some new material for my monologue. Have not been anywhere in ages. I used to be on the road all the time. Out for dinner? No, can’t say as we have. Exciting new activity? No. I guess I need to work on that.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1-08VbGO3I/AAAAAAAAByI/hrRV1vt-7ek/s1600-h/b1.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1-08VbGO3I/AAAAAAAAByI/hrRV1vt-7ek/s400/b1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431258624268057458" /></a><br /><br />This was our final building project of 2009. We finished it in November which was really pushing the season. We have this little building on Dickason Boulevard just down the street from our showroom. It was in pretty sorry need of a fresh coat of paint. We painted it about 5 or 6 years ago but this building is allergic to its skin. It just keeps peeling. It has many coats of paint but the original first coat has no interest in remaining on the building. So it’s a never ending paint job until all of that original paint finally peels off. Now it really did turn out nice. Cheryl picked great colors and is a meticulous trimmer. Good for another five years.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1-08R0Kt3I/AAAAAAAAByA/L_EzJMSYSPA/s1600-h/b2.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1-08R0Kt3I/AAAAAAAAByA/L_EzJMSYSPA/s400/b2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431258623299467122" /></a><br /><br />The Gig chassis made it through its first sanding. Brandon has it ready for the next coat of primer which will happen tomorrow morning.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1-02csKIII/AAAAAAAABx4/1zGx0rn6YV0/s1600-h/b3.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1-02csKIII/AAAAAAAABx4/1zGx0rn6YV0/s400/b3.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431258523139448962" /></a><br /><br />This is the appearance of the primer after sanding. We use a block to sand so we level as we fill the grain of the wood. Looks to me the grain filled nice this go round so one more coat will do the trick.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1-02DnDvxI/AAAAAAAABxw/TSp9DBuFiBY/s1600-h/b4.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1-02DnDvxI/AAAAAAAABxw/TSp9DBuFiBY/s400/b4.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431258516407172882" /></a><br /><br />The body is ready for a second coat of primer as well. The seat rail has been fabricated and primed. This portion is ready to be painted black. Once the rail has been painted the seat back can be upholstered. We are going with a medium tan wool fabric with black piping and buttons. Tradition in style and elegant in appearance.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1-018dXCZI/AAAAAAAABxo/8dWm-Q59o2c/s1600-h/b5.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1-018dXCZI/AAAAAAAABxo/8dWm-Q59o2c/s400/b5.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431258514487445906" /></a><br /><br />The fab shop has a number of things going on one of which is a run of Sprint Cart frames. Here is our first frame of that run. Some of this is the frame jig and some of it is the frame itself. In this shot the main frame is tacked but there are still a number of additional parts to add before it’s a complete frame. In late 2009 we completely redesigned the Sprint frame into a more streamlined, lighter and stronger unit. It looks very nice and performs beautifully.<br /><br />I don’t know. I can’t think of anything good to say here either. Oh well.<br /><br />Have a great Wednesday!<br /><br />Ciao!<br />TToddersvillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04475636917256235974noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492493573027950856.post-29987306229371866402010-01-25T21:43:00.009-06:002010-01-25T22:24:14.665-06:00Jack Frost is Not DeadWell unfortunately the Vikings lost their game against the Saints on Sunday. I was actually hoping they would pull it off and in reality they should have. But of course Brett threw a pick at the worst possible time to kill the winning drive. Jeez, who would have ever seen that coming? Certainly not a Packer fan. The Vikings played really good football and certainly well enough as a team to win. A classic case of Brett trying to be a hero instead of taking the few yards he had and setting up the field goal. Just when you had me cheering for the Vikings too…<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S15lVIt_80I/AAAAAAAABxg/2v3fRoHPIpM/s1600-h/b1.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 286px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S15lVIt_80I/AAAAAAAABxg/2v3fRoHPIpM/s400/b1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430889614447473474" /></a><br /><br />I don’t think I've ever shared this photo on my blog. I think it just might be one of my all time favorite photos of Columbus. Click on it to enlarge. It was taken by my buddy Rod Melotte back in December of 2009 when we had like four feet of snow. So wintry and festive all at the same time. Get ready. Sounds like winter is ready to return.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S15lU9n0a6I/AAAAAAAABxY/SYGURokpvHA/s1600-h/b2.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S15lU9n0a6I/AAAAAAAABxY/SYGURokpvHA/s400/b2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430889611468762018" /></a><br /><br />Dale was laying stripes on the wheels of the Show Gig today. The stripe is gold, predominant color is deep maroon and all trimmed in black.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S15lJXl8MQI/AAAAAAAABxQ/m6JVusszbLA/s1600-h/b3.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S15lJXl8MQI/AAAAAAAABxQ/m6JVusszbLA/s400/b3.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430889412281774338" /></a><br /><br />The chassis is in first coat primer and in the midst of the first sanding. Here the bottom side is being sanded with 220. Should be getting close to ready for second coat primer by the end of the day tomorrow.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S15lJD5_xcI/AAAAAAAABxI/BFZX9AssT88/s1600-h/b4.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S15lJD5_xcI/AAAAAAAABxI/BFZX9AssT88/s400/b4.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430889406997185986" /></a><br /><br />This is the axle and suspension. It is in final coat primer and being sanded with 320 just before paint. This portion and a few other parts will be ready for paint tomorrow. <br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S15lI_rYXcI/AAAAAAAABxA/u89tP79-AjI/s1600-h/b5.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S15lI_rYXcI/AAAAAAAABxA/u89tP79-AjI/s400/b5.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430889405862141378" /></a><br /><br />Back in the fabrication shop we are in the early stages of a batch of ten Sprint Cart frames. The main tube frames have been bent and cut to shape. From here the spring and seat mounts are attached and then on to the main frame jig. We should have this batch of frames fabricated in a week or so and ready for powder coat finish. We will have a nice selection of Sprints available for early spring delivery so place your order today.<br /><br />I used to love working on my car. I have a pretty good mechanical mind and given enough time I can figure out just about anything. That being said it’s been years since I’ve really messed around with our car. Just seem to be too busy. Well the car needed front brake pads. I can do that. Well it actually went pretty well. Front disc brakes have not really changed much in the last ten years. Only thing I really noticed was how light the car is built. Used to have this big ass frame to put the jack under. Not any more. I wasn’t quite sure where to pick the thing up. Wonder why the doors won’t open? That’s weird.<br /><br />Have a great Tuesday!<br /><br />Ciao!<br />TToddersvillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04475636917256235974noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492493573027950856.post-84981107246501832752010-01-22T22:17:00.009-06:002010-01-22T22:30:28.371-06:00The Big Red Grand FinaleBig night for Conan Obrien. His final night as the host of the Tonight Show. Not that I would be the first person NBC should call but I could never quite figure that one out anyway. I guess he has a loyal fan base. Sometimes funny but I just don’t see him in that slot. Believe it or not, he’s a little too weird for me most of the time. I will be watching his show tonight though just for kicks.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1p4weLjLfI/AAAAAAAABw4/VipHAD1hs9E/s1600-h/b1.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1p4weLjLfI/AAAAAAAABw4/VipHAD1hs9E/s400/b1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429785074879114738" /></a><br /><br />I managed to wrap up the construction of the Show Gig this morning. Last night I spent the evening polishing off the metal fabrication and the steps. Here we have the right step fitted, welds ground and all ready for a coat of primer.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1p4v66_E4I/AAAAAAAABww/usgAOicGa-s/s1600-h/b2.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1p4v66_E4I/AAAAAAAABww/usgAOicGa-s/s400/b2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429785065414398850" /></a><br /><br />Now I’m all done with the chassis. I’m ready to fit the body. We’ve set the body between the shafts but the actual body mounts were not there to make the connection.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1p4vsr01oI/AAAAAAAABwo/ybXbMBfe_WY/s1600-h/b3.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1p4vsr01oI/AAAAAAAABwo/ybXbMBfe_WY/s400/b3.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429785061592716930" /></a><br /><br />We have four of these body mounts coming off the chassis. I’m ready to set the body and drill the holes for the bolts that will hold it in place.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1p4jna_M0I/AAAAAAAABwg/WGslqM3_luU/s1600-h/b4.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1p4jna_M0I/AAAAAAAABwg/WGslqM3_luU/s400/b4.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429784854021485378" /></a><br /><br />Everything fit very well and the body is bolted in place. I jump up to check the balance which is just right. This carriage has long side springs which are nice and comfy when I jump up and down. It’s going to be a nice ride. <br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1p4jR5G5aI/AAAAAAAABwY/QIyHhkfPCpI/s1600-h/b5.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1p4jR5G5aI/AAAAAAAABwY/QIyHhkfPCpI/s400/b5.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429784848242238882" /></a><br /><br />The body comes back off and the shafts head into the booth for the first coat of primer. Dale had a few odds and ends to finish up for me then two heavy coats of black primer. This will be sanded with 220 grit before it returns for a second coat.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1p4jCPFmnI/AAAAAAAABwQ/dGoR18Bw_Dc/s1600-h/b6.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1p4jCPFmnI/AAAAAAAABwQ/dGoR18Bw_Dc/s400/b6.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429784844039461490" /></a><br /><br />It’s pretty easy to see how heavy the primer is when you see it up close. The first coat will fill most of the grain in the wood. What this coat doesn’t catch the next one will.<br /><br />Sounds like it’s going to be a warm Saturday but the cool down begins on Sunday. I’ve really been digging this warmer weather. It’s been a nice break from winter and made the first half of January move along pretty quickly.<br /><br />Have a great weekend! See you again on Monday.<br /><br />Ciao!<br />TToddersvillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04475636917256235974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492493573027950856.post-73921298868757565412010-01-21T20:53:00.015-06:002010-01-21T21:18:50.698-06:00Texas Two StepSo the big news in Columbus these days is my buddy Nathan Roberts. Nate is a third generation fabricator from a long line of blacksmiths. His business is called Fiske Inc. Fiske manufactures the majority of the specialized trucks and trailers you see on the road transporting LP tanks. Boom trucks and saddle trailers that pick up the tanks and haul them away. He had been operating from the buildings that his grandfather started up his business in which are cool but small. It was time to make a change. He just purchased a manufacturing facility in Columbus that closed about a year ago. He will be adding employees and will have plenty of room for them in the 27,000 square feet. Congratulations Nathan!<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1kTYA99ExI/AAAAAAAABwI/IM9dtxOVX9g/s1600-h/b1.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1kTYA99ExI/AAAAAAAABwI/IM9dtxOVX9g/s400/b1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429392129069486866" /></a><br /><br />Meanwhile back at the ranch we are continuing our Show Gig. I’m working on the steps which will consist of a pair of steps on each side. One will be a drop step and the other will be a step plate mounted on top of the shaft. I’m in the process of mocking up the upper step plate here which will be incorporated into a brace that bridges our shaft and cross brace connection.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1kTX3suVSI/AAAAAAAABwA/Sx12lhPXzY8/s1600-h/b2.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1kTX3suVSI/AAAAAAAABwA/Sx12lhPXzY8/s400/b2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429392126581298466" /></a><br /><br />Being it’s an odd shape this plate will be pretty easy to make up from three pieces of steel. I’ve cut and trimmed the pieces and as you can see they are welded together.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1kTQqw1yRI/AAAAAAAABv4/LxG7dg287wM/s1600-h/b3.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1kTQqw1yRI/AAAAAAAABv4/LxG7dg287wM/s400/b3.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429392002849818898" /></a><br /><br />To make them look like one bigger piece of steel we grind off all the welds. It is being fastened with two stove bolts through the cross brace and two wood screws into the shaft. Those fasteners are counter sunk and then filled to conceal.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1kTQW3FSTI/AAAAAAAABvw/2k0NV7RmozY/s1600-h/b4.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1kTQW3FSTI/AAAAAAAABvw/2k0NV7RmozY/s400/b4.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429391997507291442" /></a><br /><br />With the upper plates complete now we are going to begin work on the drop steps. I've bent the drop rods with a long sweeping bend and we will fasten our round step on the bottom of that rod. Here are my parts. The long stems still need to be cut to fit. They will run down the edge of each shaft and up to the under side of the upper step.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1kTQPQ8EkI/AAAAAAAABvo/cFZkkZiDi7w/s1600-h/b5.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1kTQPQ8EkI/AAAAAAAABvo/cFZkkZiDi7w/s400/b5.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429391995468255810" /></a><br /><br />Now complete the steps have a traditional look and they are nice and solid. Notice there is a little ear on each side of the step itself which keeps your foot from slipping off. That is an antique feature and we like to copy that detail as it’s practical as well.<br /><br />One of these days I’m going to start walking and running again. I fell off the wagon when I contracted the cold that wouldn’t leave. Maybe tomorrow. Then again sitting here eating chips and salsa isn’t a bad deal either. Tomorrow is Friday already? Holy crap.<br /><br />Ciao!<br />TToddersvillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04475636917256235974noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492493573027950856.post-12392643263952464432010-01-20T21:52:00.007-06:002010-01-20T22:44:16.370-06:00Bad Ass SawCutting steel in many shapes and sizes is pretty easy today with the right equipment. I’ve cut it by hand with a hack saw. Cut it with a sawzall and a metal blade. A grinder with a cutting wheel. For years most of our cutting was done with an abrasive chop saw. It’s noisy, throws sparks, creates smoke and dirt all over the shop.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1fQLJbEo4I/AAAAAAAABvg/UEHpO6w3Aro/s1600-h/b1.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1fQLJbEo4I/AAAAAAAABvg/UEHpO6w3Aro/s400/b1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429036765745030018" /></a><br /><br />These days we use what is called a cold saw. It’s much like a miter saw that you might cut wood with but slower speed and coolant to keep the blade sharp and cool. It cuts accurately and clean without the mess.<br /><br /><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/yJz41jv_-Xg&hl=en_US&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/yJz41jv_-Xg&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />This little video is pretty interesting if you are into tools or have never seen how a cold saw functions. That's me on the bike in the intro. Our saw is a Baileigh and we are really happy with it. Cuts steel like warm butter.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1fQK_0aXbI/AAAAAAAABvY/FJI1rtzheZs/s1600-h/b2.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1fQK_0aXbI/AAAAAAAABvY/FJI1rtzheZs/s400/b2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429036763166956978" /></a><br /><br />Spent the day working on the Show Gig again today. I’m working on the final assembly of the chassis itself. The shafts are obviously wood but they are lined with 1 ½” x ¼” steel plate on the bottom side. I’m in the process of fastening that steel to the shafts. I’m drilling and installing bolts in this shot.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1fQK244JGI/AAAAAAAABvQ/KskGe6mUmYM/s1600-h/b3.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1fQK244JGI/AAAAAAAABvQ/KskGe6mUmYM/s400/b3.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429036760769766498" /></a><br /><br />Here is a close up view of a body mount. At this point it is just a rod tack welded onto the steel. Once we have all the holes drilled we will remove the steel plate one more time to weld the mount solid as well as add a bracket to fasten the body.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1fP3exdFzI/AAAAAAAABvI/rRDTtTpzxTk/s1600-h/b4.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1fP3exdFzI/AAAAAAAABvI/rRDTtTpzxTk/s400/b4.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429036427878668082" /></a><br /><br />At the intersections of the cross braces we add a short dogleg of steel on the bottom side as a reinforcement. We have four main joints in the shaft frame and I have those parts cut and ready to install.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1fP3e2908I/AAAAAAAABvA/i2zJ8N-zLO8/s1600-h/b5.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1fP3e2908I/AAAAAAAABvA/i2zJ8N-zLO8/s400/b5.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429036427901785026" /></a><br /><br />Here is one of those pieces. It is clamped in place and ready to tack weld. Once again this will be welded solid to the main frame when it is removed from the wood. This shot is taken from the floor looking up under the frame.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1fP29ibo7I/AAAAAAAABu4/AvlvSSiFPR0/s1600-h/b6.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1fP29ibo7I/AAAAAAAABu4/AvlvSSiFPR0/s400/b6.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429036418957288370" /></a><br /><br />And here we have some wheels. These roller bearing wheels are now painted deep maroon. Our client selected the maroon in combination with black and a gold fine line stripe which will be very sharp. These wheels will sit for a few days before they are trimmed in black and striped in gold.<br /><br />Hope you all had a great Wednesday. I never really managed to get myself out of the shop today other than to walk up to the mailbox. <br /><br />Ciao!<br />TToddersvillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04475636917256235974noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492493573027950856.post-18110356370985743402010-01-19T06:00:00.000-06:002010-01-18T22:57:21.895-06:00The Emperor Has New ShoesSo does anyone else have the crud that won’t quit? Jeez. Enough coughing already.<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/NINOxRxze9k&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/NINOxRxze9k&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />Check out this video. It’s actually a backdrop for a music video for a French band called Air. I’m kind of digging the music by Air but the video is pretty entertaining as well. Taken from the front seat of a street car in San Francisco in 1906. Horses, carriages, wagons, bikes, cars and street cars all moving on the same space. It’s fairly long but a good look back at history.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1U2DvQBe3I/AAAAAAAABuw/P0a9Wgq_dLk/s1600-h/b1.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428304363716180850" style="WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1U2DvQBe3I/AAAAAAAABuw/P0a9Wgq_dLk/s400/b1.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br />So do you think I needed new work shoes? You know if it was summer I think I could have gotten a couple more months out of them as the other one is fairing a little better. The snow tends to be a bit of a problem.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1U2Dle5doI/AAAAAAAABuo/WtAm_yt-ctE/s1600-h/b2.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428304361094215298" style="WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1U2Dle5doI/AAAAAAAABuo/WtAm_yt-ctE/s400/b2.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I’m thinking my new shoes are so cool that I should be preserving them for social activities rather than work. Let‘s see, sort of forgot what social activities are. Where is that duct tape anyway? Maybe I can patch up the old pair and get by just a little longer.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1U2DRi7egI/AAAAAAAABug/fdBnT_yLuuc/s1600-h/b3.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428304355742415362" style="WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1U2DRi7egI/AAAAAAAABug/fdBnT_yLuuc/s400/b3.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Yesterday I worked on fender brackets for our Show Gig project. We need to fasten to the under side of the seat, bump down and around the seat valance and then up high enough to clear the wheel. Here I have the shape bent for half of a bracket set.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1U17Dj2HNI/AAAAAAAABuY/2UsIqSTEpqM/s1600-h/b4.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428304214549208274" style="WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1U17Dj2HNI/AAAAAAAABuY/2UsIqSTEpqM/s400/b4.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br />The part coming off the body is ½” rod. We need to fasten the fender to that rod so we extend a portion of 1” x ¼” flat with mounting holes.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1U169A47cI/AAAAAAAABuQ/vj70KAFGEnI/s1600-h/b5.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428304212791979458" style="WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1U169A47cI/AAAAAAAABuQ/vj70KAFGEnI/s400/b5.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Once the fender brackets are bent they need to be connected to the body. To accomplish this I used a 1 ¼” plate with a couple of holes to bolt to the seat frame itself.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1U167TzhtI/AAAAAAAABuI/Yl2pCM4MWmI/s1600-h/b6.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428304212334446290" style="WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/S1U167TzhtI/AAAAAAAABuI/Yl2pCM4MWmI/s400/b6.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br />And here we are. One left and one right side bracket fabricated and ready to mount. Bob is in the process of mounting the fenders to the bracket and then they head in for primer. Today I’m constructing the body mount brackets that fasten the body to the shaft frame. Then the rear spring mount bracket. With any luck and limited interruptions we might have some steps today too.<br /><br />Have a great Tuesday. I’m off for breakfast with the guys. Maybe I’ll wear my new shoes…<br /><br />Ciao!<br />TToddersvillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04475636917256235974noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492493573027950856.post-91755831983867362522009-12-16T06:00:00.011-06:002009-12-16T16:38:13.374-06:00Port Huron RendezvousA few months ago I had a sleigh to get to Canada for a client. We thought Port Huron, Michigan would be a good meeting point and he could take it across the border. I had never been to PHMI so I thought it would be a fun little trip. I came away feeling pretty good about the Port and the view of Sarnia across the St. Clair River.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/SyhjjuQTb5I/AAAAAAAABtQ/juDCmeWS1Xg/s1600-h/b1.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415688017276006290" style="WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 274px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/SyhjjuQTb5I/AAAAAAAABtQ/juDCmeWS1Xg/s400/b1.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I’m kind of a sap for cruising around whenever I enter a town I’ve never been. So was the case with Port Huron and of course I headed straight downtown. I can always find something of interest in an old downtown. Doesn’t matter big or small, thriving or diving there is always something interesting in the old business districts. I always find myself driving around blocks in every little podunk town I travel through.<br /><br />OK, maybe not going to win any awards with this project but I really liked the way this particular building was treated. I would give it some kind of award. Frugal and trendy all at the same time.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/SyhjjYHoMcI/AAAAAAAABtI/a5k63T--gtU/s1600-h/b2.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415688011334037954" style="WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/SyhjjYHoMcI/AAAAAAAABtI/a5k63T--gtU/s400/b2.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br />If you look closely at the top photo you can see numerous bricked up windows and doors. The contemporary windows were obviously placed at some point for the layout of the interior of the building. I love the original signage still intact. So often the first train of thought is to unblock the windows and bring everything back to original. Pretty cool the way that they left the industrial simplicity of the bad renovations in place and added the new entrance in grandiose fashion. The other obvious new addition is the French doors at the second floor loading dock. Great project and I would have really liked a look at the inside.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/SyhjjFrQQWI/AAAAAAAABtA/e17-kNaXDGI/s1600-h/b3.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415688006383190370" style="WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/SyhjjFrQQWI/AAAAAAAABtA/e17-kNaXDGI/s400/b3.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br />This property was right behind the first and looking at details I’m guessing is by the same owner. Here we have a much more traditional and symmetrical facade. Once again a really beautifully completed restoration. A great contrast of colors, finishes and the greenery is the finishing touch.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/SyhjamofG0I/AAAAAAAABs4/-c4lxThlWw4/s1600-h/b4.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415687860611128130" style="WIDTH: 318px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/SyhjamofG0I/AAAAAAAABs4/-c4lxThlWw4/s400/b4.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I find this entrance to be so inviting. Duffy Studios. I have no idea what that is but they really know how to make a business present itself. One of those nice little old commercial buildings that I wished I could just pick up and take home with me.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/SyhjafyJNmI/AAAAAAAABsw/eZeaNj6Vg0A/s1600-h/b5.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415687858772588130" style="WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/SyhjafyJNmI/AAAAAAAABsw/eZeaNj6Vg0A/s400/b5.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br />What a classic Art Deco façade. Looks to me like a much earlier building that was converted more than likely in the 30’s. This building is a great project and I hope someone latches onto it soon. It could be so much fun to bring it back to life to be a centerpiece in what was the middle of downtown. I could have a blast with this one.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/SyhjaH-ccBI/AAAAAAAABso/vHmc3ke2vBc/s1600-h/b6.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415687852381728786" style="WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/SyhjaH-ccBI/AAAAAAAABso/vHmc3ke2vBc/s400/b6.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Oh and lookie here. Planters, trees and benches in nice little groupings. They had a nice little streetscape plan that was in keeping with a city of it’s size. Obviously this was all pretty new so the downtown must have been recently ripped apart. I liked the scale of the larger gardens rather than smaller planters. All trimmed out in pavers and such it was a pretty attractive pedestrian way.<br /><br />We concluded the trip with breakfast at an outstanding coffee shop/café across the street. Take an historic building, strip out the crap, pick out classic striking colors, crisp contemporary furniture, colorful artwork for the walls, slam out some one of a kind food and you'll have a winner. I’ll go back to Port Huron just for breakfast.<br /><br />Have a great Wednesday!<br /><br />Best!<br />TToddersvillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04475636917256235974noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492493573027950856.post-50214601499610779872009-12-15T14:11:00.007-06:002009-12-17T14:57:53.598-06:00Snapshots of HistoryBeing in my business I’m often thinking about people. Not just the carriages but the people that rode along. It was not all that long ago that the carriages we restore were transportation for someone. One hundred years ago or so. To put it into perspective The Brady Bunch first aired on September, 26th, 1969. Just over 40 years ago. Seems like yesterday.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/SyftrVGaEwI/AAAAAAAABsg/3_k54clPCqM/s1600-h/b1.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 344px; height: 206px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/SyftrVGaEwI/AAAAAAAABsg/3_k54clPCqM/s400/b1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415558405590487810" /></a><br /><br />Another snapshot in time. Downtown Columbus on a busy day. Notice the diagonal parking. Who are all of these people and what are they doing? How do they relate to the Columbus of today? All of this bustle. People coming and going and what is thier story today. Who knows. It’s a snapshot of time in the busy life of a small town.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/SyftrET6iII/AAAAAAAABsY/uxf194QMJBs/s1600-h/b2.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/SyftrET6iII/AAAAAAAABsY/uxf194QMJBs/s400/b2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415558401083738242" /></a><br /><br />Our Brewster Sleigh project continues to move forward. Bob sprayed primer on the runners today so that portion is continuing to move along.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/Syftqlp4YII/AAAAAAAABsQ/vRUGsY6oDzU/s1600-h/b3.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/Syftqlp4YII/AAAAAAAABsQ/vRUGsY6oDzU/s400/b3.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415558392854372482" /></a><br /><br />The body is removed but it is yet to be stripped. As slow as that process was on the dash I have a hunch that the boy’s are not too excited about that part. <br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/SyftjmMj2iI/AAAAAAAABsI/BDfq-y4qMf4/s1600-h/b4.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/SyftjmMj2iI/AAAAAAAABsI/BDfq-y4qMf4/s400/b4.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415558272740743714" /></a><br /><br />All of the iron parts have been blasted and primed as of this morning as well. This primer coat will fill in any voids and pits in the metal parts and once sanded it will be ready for a shiny coat of paint. <br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/SyftjeNFByI/AAAAAAAABsA/VO59OnnutnE/s1600-h/b5.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/SyftjeNFByI/AAAAAAAABsA/VO59OnnutnE/s400/b5.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415558270595434274" /></a><br /><br />The Brewster Tub Cart also moves closer to the door. The shafts have been installed and now Dale is getting the axle and springs ready to mount. <br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/SyftjOcJj4I/AAAAAAAABr4/I89FfD5qiDM/s1600-h/b6.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RCASP_0XUo0/SyftjOcJj4I/AAAAAAAABr4/I89FfD5qiDM/s400/b6.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415558266363678594" /></a><br /><br />The rear door is installed but one of our problems is having only half of a latch. We have the one portion installed but I’m not sure what we will be doing about the rest at this point. Being that it is completely unique we will probably be making up a custom part for the door portion of the latch.<br /><br />Have a great Tuesday!<br /><br />Best!<br />TToddersvillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04475636917256235974noreply@blogger.com1