DeTomaso Mailing List: August 2000, Message #115

Did the module refresh today. All complete ('cept I still have to order
that brass gear. I'll get it later). But for academics, I decided to use
the old nylon gear as a placeholder and continue with the project.

The place that I drew new hardware (Cuesta Equipment in Santa Maria)
didn't have s/s hardware for the metric stuff. I was stuck with using
plated items. No sweat. That's what was on the Pantera in the beginning.
I did build an adaptor plate for the new German motor and I equipped the
mounting hardware with English system bolts (1/4" units to bolt to the
plate) so there was no cutting or anything like that. The only problem
was that the rubber/nylon coupler was too short. No problem. I did
"bridge" the two together for the testing. Seem to hold up for the test.
But I'll either buy or modify another coupler to do the job (simple
problem, just make a new plastic one or fab it).

Two big tests: the issue of "the flywheel effect" and the fitment. In
short, both NON ISSUES!!!

First, the flywheel effect. I applied 12VDC to the motor (both
directions) to see how far the Ducellier transmission kept going after I
cut power off. Oh, maybe an eight of a turn or less. I feel that with
the new longer microswitches, I'll be able to cut off the action much
sooner than with the factory original stuff but even then, that's not a
problem.

Second was the fitment. I was initially having fits with the fitment. I
had mounted the microswitches before test fitting the refurbed piece. My
mistake: they should be completely off. After I took both off and put
the unit on, it fit like the proverbial glove! Even with the mongo 1/8"
thick washer turned adaptor plate, I still cleared the factory chassis
indentation where the original
Ducellier motor used to reside. A few clean ups here and there and it
will fit all the way. Another concern was my choice to grind off the old
welded on nuts. No problem. That was an extra step the factory did to
facilitate putting these guys in. One has to take the extra time to
carefully put the extra loose hardware from the back and maybe follow up
with a dab of Locktite.

So, the hardlamp module is done, tested, fitted, validated, verified,
QC'd, and passed. I'm sure it will meet the MD seal of approval!

Next projects are to refresh the suspension components this weekend at
the tech session. I hear that  Roger has a mongo compressor. I'll have
to bring up my compact sand blasting box. Hey Steve L, got a bucket of
sand blasting material you can "loan" me????


Cal #2428.