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T‑Bucket Perfection in 1:5 Scale
Hot Rod ClassicScale Redefined
After an intensive development phase, production of the ScaleMonkey T23 Bucket in 1:5 scale is launching – constructed according to the original plans of California Custom Roadsters.
In close collaboration with California Custom Roadsters in Los Angeles, the model was implemented in 1:5 scale based on these original plans.
In terms of materials and manufacturing, the construction also consistently follows the technology of the original: The frame is manufactured from steel profile tubes, and axle carriers and wheel suspensions are welded. The body is produced using classic GRP construction.
Design, material selection, and manufacturing are thus consistently aligned with the technical execution of the T-Bucket.
| Model: | SM15 T-Bucket |
|---|---|
| Price: | Coming Soon |
| Length: | 685 mm |
| Width: | 405 mm |
| Height: | 290 mm |
| Engine: | V8 Small-Block OHV 44cc (not included in delivery) |
| Transmission: | 3-Speed Manual Transmission (not included in delivery) |
| Weight: | Coming Soon |
The Build Process
The creation of the ScaleMonkey T23 Bucket is documented in an ongoing build report. In several sections, we show the individual manufacturing steps – from the production of the steel frame and the chassis components to the assembly and execution of the body.
The focus is on design, manufacturing, and technical details. The build report makes it clear how a fully assembled rolling chassis in 1:5 scale is created from the original design documents.
The individual construction phases are continuously added and document the progress of production.
The Frame
The construction of the T-Bucket begins with the frame. This is manufactured from square tubes, which are cut, prepared, and then welded according to the original plans of California Custom Roadsters for the 1:5 scale.
For the production of the delicate welded joints, we rely on a PUK U5 from Lampert Werktechnik. The process enables precise processing of the small components and a controlled execution of the weld seams.
After welding, the frame is coated with Cerakote in Gloss Black. The low layer thickness preserves the fine contours and details of the construction. At the same time, the coating offers high protection against corrosion and mechanical stress.
This ensures that the technical execution of the frame remains visible, while the surface is permanently protected for the subsequent assembly.
The Engine
The ScaleMonkey T-Bucket was developed for the Cison V8 OHV engine. The compact 8-cylinder 4-stroke engine has a displacement of 44 cm³ and an output of approximately 4.8 hp. Its design is based on classic American V8 engines.
Various add-on parts were specially developed and manufactured for installation in the T-Bucket. This includes a custom Gasser-style air cleaner with an integrated filter element.
The cooling system was also developed for the model. The water radiator is made of brass and has 26 tubes with a total length of around 1.8 m. In conjunction with the cooling system mounted on the engine, it allows for operation of about ten minutes at average RPM.
The side-pipe exhaust system is also a custom design. The eight header pipes are of approximately equal length and lead into a common side pipe. The design is thus based on classic V8 exhaust systems and contributes to the characteristic sound of the engine.
To be continued...
Because true perfection is created detail by detail.
* All mentioned brands and product names are the property of their respective owners. They are mentioned solely to describe the respective prototypes.
There is no affiliation with or license from the brand owners.