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Technical & Reference Section => Tech and Restoration => Topic started by: Midschoolfool on July 20, 2021, 01:53 AM

Title: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on July 20, 2021, 01:53 AM
I know. I said I couldn't build any more. Nowhere, though, did I say that I would not break one down  :LolLolLolLol:

It's no secret that I only built my T1 Ruben because at that time I could not really afford a Barcode. I have a limit on what I will pay for old frames, especially if I am not going to ride them. And, I've been good and not gone over that limit. Not on a mid school frame. I nearly did recently, so make yourself a nice cup of tea and sit down because it's story time again.

Recently I tried to buy a Morales BTS. Mostly because I know they are quite rare, but also because they are Morales. Not Robbie Morales, but Bob Morales. TBH? I am probably in the correct place to say that name and you guys immediately know who I am talking about. Yeah, that Bob Morales. The one who rode with Bob Haro BITD, founder of Dyno, Kore and Morales. The model I tried to buy was the earlier flatland model. As far as I knew that was the last frame they made. I like it because it's absolutely ridiculous. You'll know I am into my tanks from the mid school. Back then heavier = better, end of story. Other than the Pork, which runs the BTS close, the BTS was easily one of the most "tankiest" frames you could get. And because of that I lusted over them, even if they were primarily designed for flatland.

OK, so what the hell do I mean when I said "tried to buy" a BTS. Well, I saw one on Ebay (it is still there, and probably will remain there) and the guy wanted ?450. lol. I messaged him pointing out it would need a full resto (tatty, very tatty) and he said he would take ?275 all in. Fair enough. Still a lot, but I know they are pretty scarce and I wanted one. So, I made the offer, he accepted it, and I paid. Immediately he sends me a refund. I questioned this, and he said that he did not want to pay Ebay fees. I was pretty pissed off at this because why the fook are you selling something on Ebay that you don't want to pay fees on? and that is when the fun started. It took four days for the money to go back into my account. He sent me his facebook details and for some stupid reason I spoke to him on there. He said he wanted me to pay by PP F&F. Yeah right, no way. Eventually he agreed to take G&S, and so I paid him *again*.

Immediately he refunds the money again, whining that they won't let him have the cash until he has shipped it and provided tracking. He then starts pressuring me to pay him by BACS, and which point I told him to swivel and moved on. It took 8 working days for me to get the cash back, meaning that any other good finds would have to be lost because I did not have the funds. Hilariously two days ago he messaged me after I had told him to swivel asking if I still wanted it  :LolLolLolLol:

I suppose the fact I have now blocked him gives him his answer. Annoyed, frustrated and a little gutted I moved on. Got onto my 2hip and have nearly cracked it out. However, I still wanted a Morales. Even though I know that I have no room for one.

Last night I was poking around on Ebay and it happened. I don't know how it happened, because I did not search for Morales (and haven't since because it just made me angry) but it just popped up in the suggested. This.

(https://i.imgur.com/GY60Dbr.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/NIlqN8x.jpg)

I knew instantly it was a Morales BTS. However, for some reason it was missing the peg mounts. That said, I knew it was definitely a Morales because no one else has ever been crazy enough to create an almost 8lb monstrosity with 2" tubes and 1" stays. I paused for a second because it was in Germany. Then I had a very quick thought and bought it. It was ?167, plus ?20 shipping. Some ?80 cheaper than the last one and in much better condition. The finish is not original, but that doesn't matter to me at all. I knew I had to act fast because of how rare they are, so yeah no messing around. What happened next nearly floored me  :LolLolLolLol:

I was so excited about the frame I did not realise it came with extras ! not just any extras either, but really lovely extras. Like these mint chrome Bully fork from a 2001 Bully.

(https://i.imgur.com/nVIHOa4.jpg)

A pair of Dragonfly Monsterbra bars.

(https://i.imgur.com/7yzIy8J.jpg)

And a headset. I don't think I have ever been so bloody excited before. I suppose what goes around comes around though huh?

As I said, I do not have room to put another bike. There is already an STA in the "work" area, and when the 2hip is done that will be in the work area too. Which sucks. However, this brings me back to the T1 Ruben I really don't want. Like I said, I only built it because I got it for ?130. Shipped. Which was really good. However, I now have a Barcode. So any love I had for it? is pretty much gone and all I really see now is a pile of really nice parts. Mostly NOS, or brand new. The paint on it is also totally screwed. Got ripped off, and it just flakes off something rotten.

(https://i.imgur.com/E4Tn7GT.jpg)

You can see it on the drops. It was bad then, it is ten times worse now. Recently I wanted that sprocket for another build so I switched it out with a Haro nuke I have. It didn't go well. I ended up losing a ton of paint from the chainstay, as literally dropping the chain on it is enough to make it fall off. At which point I got really frustrated and it is now ruined paint wise. Given the time I put into that paint job (a week of hard slog) and the money (over ?80 for crap) I have no ambitions of painting it again. At all. In fact, it's going. It really does make me that angry.

So, I am going to strip it. The wheels are NOS, the tyres are awesome, plus I will use the cranks (SNAFU Mayweather, top end cranks) the gyro (Stolen Satellite) and etc. Not sure if I will use those Fly Tierra 2pc or the DF bars. We will see. Pedals (Ruben) and grips (T1) will be sold with the frame. I will also not be using the Bully fork on the Morales either. They are 10mm, and the wheel set I have on the Ruben is 14 F&R. I am going to use the fork on there (Conspiracy Hitman, NOS) instead. The Ruben also has a cheap stem on it. Firma. It was about ?12, as I wanted the stem on there for something else and did not have a spare. It also has new Springfields front and rear too.

The only parts I have bought are the following. I got this stem on clearance half price.

(https://i.imgur.com/DZQn9Ai.jpg)

These grips for a fiver, again on clearance.

(https://i.imgur.com/EJx8RQ3.jpg)

Two sets of these for 4 quid for both.

(https://i.imgur.com/lgLQG77.jpg)

And finally, I got this. NOS, 7000 billet for a tenner.

(https://i.imgur.com/2OTb4D2.jpg)

BTW going back to the frame and how it differs. This was the failed model. It is not a flatland bike. Flatland was dying out in the very late 90s, so Morales designed the BTS MK2. Which was a street frame. However, they went out of business and most of them were sold to Dan's Comp in the USA, who rebadged them "Poverty BTS" and sold them off cheap.

Paint. I love the orange. I just, fooking love it. so far I have been pretty restrained when it comes to being completely loud, but this time I DGAF.  :LolLolLolLol:

There is some paint damage on it, and some grind rash (minor) on the left side drop. So, I will fix that and repaint it. Orange. Going with "Jam"

(https://i.imgur.com/Vd2bZcS.jpg)

And lots of gold flake.

(https://i.imgur.com/tbsou6G.jpg)

Oh and I have bought a set of NOS decals from Gary who runs the BMX museum too. He got them from Bob when Morales went tits up.

(https://i.imgur.com/uYHvsyQ.jpg)
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on July 22, 2021, 04:20 PM
Parts in today.

(https://i.imgur.com/NhOOfbg.jpg)
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on July 24, 2021, 03:40 PM
Popped up into the loft yesterday. It was hot still, stupidly hot. I stripped down the Ruben when it was still very hot. That wasn't my smartest move tbh. Made up the bars.

(https://i.imgur.com/AoSRZou.jpg)

Stem is lovely, not sure about the grips. Fitted the 30t to the SNAFUs.

(https://i.imgur.com/aHhDZo3.jpg)

Needs some cleaning. Also realised that gold totally doesn't work with orange parts. It looks like someone pissed on the parts and they faded. Thankfully I have plenty of black parts. Love the orange anno on the stem though.
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on July 26, 2021, 01:01 AM
A tank needs tank wheels.

(https://i.imgur.com/I9YYPWH.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/BNF13aB.jpg)
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on July 26, 2021, 07:18 PM
Rear hub ordered.

(https://i.imgur.com/4S6MU8x.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/GvZN3CX.jpg)
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on July 26, 2021, 08:25 PM
OK. The only pedals that can make everything cry at once. You, your wallet and your shins  :LolLolLolLol:

I had to. Especially when I read the weight "Plenty"  :LolLolLolLol:

(https://i.imgur.com/wcCxNjV.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/4ChQ44w.jpg)

I've been riding two sets of their Nano pedals for over three years and they are superb.
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on July 27, 2021, 04:38 PM
Ordered some more parts. Wait for the disclaimer  :LolLolLolLol:

Firstly the long unflanged grips. Not mid school enough, not even close. As soon as I fitted them I realised they looked all wrong.

(https://i.imgur.com/51kyPS3.jpg)

Much better.

So did the bars. I found a set of bars in the shed. Over sized, fat AF and nicely welded.

(https://i.imgur.com/xAyq5ZA.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/JxRLV8R.jpg)

I then found out they are from a really terrible cheap bike. However, after some digging I found out that they are very popular for beach cruisers in the USA and sell for $70. So, I am beginning to wonder if they were just leftover stock or something weird that ended up in the hands of this crap company. I don't want to sound like a know all dick head but I know my parts and I know quality. All you have to do is pick something up. They are amazingly light for something so tanky, and I am pretty sure they are made from 4130. I have hi ten 2pc steel bars here (Vocal Neptune and Radio bars I used on the Fat Boy) and these weigh half. Even with the oversized tubes. Still, I didn't want to commit so I found another option. These are made for a trials bike, but have a 7" rise. Which is about right for mid school and they look very different, which is what this build will be all about.

(https://i.imgur.com/IpzB9KX.jpg)

Whether I will use them? it may literally come down to putting a few sets on and seeing how they look at the end. At least I don't have to paint them, so there's that. This is a very unusual frame, so I am trying to get unusual parts for it.  What I did get though was an Astroglide lower cable for the gyro.

(https://i.imgur.com/ilqVglQ.jpg)
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on July 27, 2021, 08:03 PM
Apparently the brake pads are all wrong. When you have wheels like that you have to have these  :LolLolLolLol:

(https://i.imgur.com/ZK9XJCG.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/pEMLqdp.jpg)
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Chilli Rinse on July 27, 2021, 08:14 PM
Liking the 2nd set of bars. Oddly cool  :coolsmiley:
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on July 27, 2021, 10:16 PM
Yeah, there's something about them tbh. They were only ?15, so if I don't like them then  *shrug* really. I'll cut the bejesus out of them too  :LolLolLolLol:
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on July 28, 2021, 02:44 PM
Pedals, if you can call them that, arrived today. So did the hub, which is so heavy it presses itself into the memory foam on my bed  :LolLolLolLol:

(https://i.imgur.com/tR0HP59.jpg)

Bonus is it's LSD. Always nice. Thankfully my sprocket (12T) and lock ring (it was missing) fit lovely.

(https://i.imgur.com/U92rzIv.jpg)
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on July 29, 2021, 03:23 PM
When you spend 10 minutes typing, press a combo on your keyboard and lose the fooking lot :(

OK, deep breath. Lots of parts came. Will get pics in a bit. Rims came, so I made a tool to measure the ERD from two old spokes and nipples. It turned out to be what I feared. You need very short spokes. I don't want to ask Avro to borrow his machine as after a lot of reading they only warranty the cutters (dear) with certain makes of spoke. That I can't get. After hours of pissing around I found some reasonably priced spokes in 160mm (the wheel calculated to 161, but you can + or - 1mm, preferably -. The way they sell spokes is like a crack dealer. In odd numbered packs so you spend ?15 more than you want to. Buggers. In the end I found then in packs of 6 in stainless (what I wanted) and ordered 8 packs. Total cost was 17 and a few pence. Good ! Now I just need to order orange nipples (lol) but I won't do that until I have the front hub and spokes sorted.

OK moving on. The seat came today. I carefully took it apart, and then even more carefully peeled off the black vinyl.

(https://i.imgur.com/1PeMcPV.jpg)

Then removed all of the glue.

(https://i.imgur.com/HzJ1k4m.jpg)

And kept the old vinyl as a loose size guide/template.

(https://i.imgur.com/CrMQpzt.jpg)

I ordered my pig skin suede.

(https://i.imgur.com/Pw7nx8X.jpg)

Was 4 quid. BTW the bars came, and I remembered where I had seen them before. KHE used to make all in one flatland bars called Swiss Miss.

(https://i.imgur.com/7SDIGLj.jpg)

Only difference I can see is that those are much straighter due to being flatland and more rise (8.6"). That said this isn't a flatland bike, so more reach and less height is bang on.

More pics of stuffs soon.
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on July 29, 2021, 03:32 PM
OK bits in.

(https://i.imgur.com/5MyYNDf.jpg)

And I bought the tyres. Thankfully they were on sale for 20 quid each, not the 40 quid folding tyres usually cost. They are 1.85 too, which is what I wanted. last thing I wanted to do was put clown tyres on those rims it would have looked stupid.


(https://i.imgur.com/dL98Lq7.jpg)

Forgot pic of tyres FFS. That shows you how my day has been - mad. 6 separate deliveries, chasing the guy I bought the frame from, pissing around for hours working out and finding the spokes and etc.
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on July 29, 2021, 10:42 PM
OK, got the tracking info for the frame and parts.

(https://i.imgur.com/43x9C5Y.jpg)

Kinda knew that would happen. Good thing I put money away  :LolLolLolLol:

That said I am pretty sure the bars and fork will rekindle me a few bob, so it's no biggy.
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Chilli Rinse on July 30, 2021, 12:01 AM
I might be interested in the bars if the price is right ;)
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on July 30, 2021, 12:10 AM
Which bars? The DF?

You'd be the second person to say that  :LolLolLolLol:

If he did actually send them (the auction was in broken English) then yeah, they'll probably go up for sale.
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on July 30, 2021, 01:11 PM
Phoned PF. The "revised" part was nagging at me.

?73.69.

I asked him to explain why. "33 VAT...... ?12 our fee (both of which I expected) the rest import duty".

Nowhere anywhere does it explain that. That said I would be pissed, but I am not. Not at all.

Providing it does come with the bars and fork? yeah, I did very well.

Talking of the bars. I had a guy interested literally the day I bought them. I have just told him what I want, and I will be open I want 50 quid shipped. If he doesn't want them you have second call. TBH? I think that's pretty cheap. Kneesavers are worth a lot of coin now, with Haros going for 120 quid and more. These are better quality and overall better bars. Saw some Hoffmans make about 200 quid the other day.

I will let you know if he doesn't want them.
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Chilli Rinse on July 30, 2021, 03:43 PM

Talking of the bars. I had a guy interested literally the day I bought them. I have just told him what I want, and I will be open I want 50 quid shipped. If he doesn't want them you have second call. TBH? I think that's pretty cheap. Kneesavers are worth a lot of coin now, with Haros going for 120 quid and more. These are better quality and overall better bars. Saw some Hoffmans make about 200 quid the other day.

I will let you know if he doesn't want them.

Cool 😎 I think that is a good price and would be a buyer. I still need to see what bars my Sjappi turns up with. I too have been walloped for 70 quid for vat and import duty. That 12 quid PF handling charge is expected but a f##king joke.
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on July 30, 2021, 05:00 PM
I'll let you know dude. They'll be here Monday for sure as I just paid the fees.

(https://i.imgur.com/qEvwleV.jpg)

Got a seat clamp ordered. And a post that looks like a friggin bean can  :LolLolLolLol:

(https://i.imgur.com/AnTKJAx.jpg)

Love how it's side mount like the old Perv and S&M posts.
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on July 31, 2021, 02:14 PM
Spoke to the guy who asked about the bars first. He does want them. So they're sold sadly (well, once they arrive).

Some goodies came. Tyres, tubes, levers and contact adhesive.

(https://i.imgur.com/5htfXDg.jpg)
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on July 31, 2021, 03:40 PM
Did I say this wouldn't be cheap? if I did then I really meant it  :LolLolLolLol:

I just fitted the levers to the bars. They look great. Unfortunately due to how acute they are a top gyro cable would be so long it would look completely stupid. So I got some knarps so when the time comes I can make them the perfect length.

(https://i.imgur.com/jWfXVC1.jpg)

I also had a sit down last night and thought about the cranks.

(https://i.imgur.com/aHhDZo3.jpg)

They are just too modern. Not just that, but they are pretty skinny. I think personally they would look a bit stupid on this bike, given everything is massive and over sized. I had a poke around, and tbh? what I would really like are JAD. That said, I would guess that 99 percent of the BMX community would too  :LolLolLolLol: so, A. There are none and B. If they were I would need to sell my bumhole for a year to pay for them  :LolLolLolLol:

I remember seeing these a few months back.

(https://i.imgur.com/BlUxf7q.jpg)

I remember them very well. They're chunky, polished lovely and include the entire BB set up I would need for this bike. What I am saying is by the time I bought yet another U.S cup and BB set I would be into it another 40 quid. This entire set up cost me 70. Which is pretty fantastic for period correct NOS cranks.

(https://i.imgur.com/HvUgMYZ.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/zIx05mQ.jpg)

There is but one catch. You need to drill out the sprocket hole to 32mm. I checked the sprocket last night, and she can take it  :LolLolLolLol: I may have to send it to my buddy, or, spend 13 quid on a stepper bit and do it myself.  We'll see. I just reckon the big fat polished arms will look gorgeous with the polished sprocket and those pedals, which are also oversized and huge.
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on July 31, 2021, 04:57 PM
(https://i.imgur.com/c7cjy0D.jpg)
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Chilli Rinse on August 01, 2021, 01:21 PM
Spoke to the guy who asked about the bars first. He does want them. So they're sold sadly (well, once they arrive).

I have only just seen this.

No problem, I don't blame him to be honest. Thanks for the offer of second dib dobs though.
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 01, 2021, 03:22 PM
I will keep you updated dude. I'm not going to chase him around.

So it seems I cocked up (just a little). I forgot when buying those alu cranks that the bike is going to be LHD. Uh oh. I could put the pedals on the wrong way, or I can take them apart and switch the bodies. You then use blue thread locker and job done.

Thankfully Superstar have a tutorial on YT. I have also ordered a 32mm step drill bit too, so I can drill out the sprocket. I will order 100 orange nipples on Tues. Am going home on Weds for a couple of weeks, will get stuck in when I get back. Whether I will paint the frame this year? IDK. It all depends on how the weather goes and etc. I want it done right like the 2hip, and that means lots of hard work and time. Not sure I have it in me, given the nightmares I've had this year with the S&M (crap paint, white is awful) and the T1 (we all remember that LOL).

If I can find the time to do it right I will. I'm currently at a record for bike restos. I usually do like, 2, but this year I've done 4.
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 02, 2021, 05:44 PM
Update. Cranks are made by FSA mid nineties. They share lots of characteristics with GT show cranks, Powerlite and FSA's own. Including the 6 spline.

Frame and parts arrived.

(https://i.imgur.com/1tMbo38.jpg)

First place you check on one of these....

(https://i.imgur.com/VK23rYz.jpg)

Mint. However, he was right when he said it needed repainting. Whoever bombed it did it quite well, only with 0 prep. So the chips and scratches were all left without even so much as a courtesy lick with some sandpaper. Meaning I need to do a bare metal job.

Not bothered tbh. Well worth putting the effort into this. I bought some spoke nipples in orange. Bloody hell they are expensive !

(https://i.imgur.com/YMNcXqL.jpg)

The bars sold BTW. Paid for.
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Chilli Rinse on August 02, 2021, 08:08 PM
The bars sold BTW. Paid for.

No worries dude, thanks for letting me know  fistblump
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 03, 2021, 01:52 PM
Parts in. Cranks are gorgeous.

(https://i.imgur.com/6sXjZVx.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/JIsCMOI.jpg)

Then went and spent as much on brakes as I had on the frame  :LolLolLolLol:

(https://i.imgur.com/TSMgkJb.jpg)

Two Demolition Vulcan. And a gyro.

(https://i.imgur.com/JNXnKBo.jpg)

Pegs are going to cost me ?28 each ffs. I will do that next week  :LolLolLolLol:
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 03, 2021, 03:03 PM
(https://i.imgur.com/bqZsA5F.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/oSUJ3ho.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/Etyya3K.jpg)
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Chilli Rinse on August 03, 2021, 04:33 PM
Nice work there sir ! Well worth the effort I reckon  :daumenhoch:
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 03, 2021, 08:07 PM
From my museum post. I think it will be hours before I calm down.

Holy shit. Just. Holy shit  :(

I began lacing the wheel five hours ago. What a SERIOUS pain in the dick these wheels are to build :(

Firstly - the spokes. They are short, and a bastard to bend. Then, the orange nipples. They are longer than the ones supplied with the spokes, and a good 2mm of them is not threaded. So I am doing them up 2-3 turns and then as I work on the wheel they franking fall off. I then go back trying to put the spokes back, get confused and have to bail and start all over again. FIVE TIMES. Then just as I am getting somewhere someone starts bothering me on Facebook. I forget where I am at, can't figure it out, have to rip it all out again.

(https://i.imgur.com/Ydx309o.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/8O6oxLJ.jpg)

You know it's funny. I remember years ago when I worked at the BMX shop. A customer bought in some fat ass rims like that and my boss refused to build them.

Now I know why  :angrysoapbox:

Was it worth it? oh yeah, but dear god that must be pro level shit right there and I was dumb to have taken it on as my second lace ever.
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 03, 2021, 08:08 PM
Ordered two of these in steel for the front. They need machining out to fit.

(https://i.imgur.com/VQblsuY.jpg)

35 quid. So why didn't I buy what I want for the rear? well, because they are 28 quid EACH. lol. I will get those next week.
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 03, 2021, 09:25 PM
Finally the ball ache was over and I could play with my new toys.  "wantit"

(https://i.imgur.com/aTIeAc6.jpg)

We wait for the 32mm step bit  :LolLolLolLol:
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 04, 2021, 11:18 PM
Rear pegs ordered.

(https://i.imgur.com/xLDyXqI.jpg)

I have a hub sorted too. It's the front version of this. Same, but without the driver etc.

(https://i.imgur.com/qOjQ65c.jpg)
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 06, 2021, 12:35 PM
Right. Quick update. Am having some time at home to chill and re energise.

I have ordered the paint. "Jam"

(https://i.imgur.com/BNfr88p.jpg)

Gold flake.

(https://i.imgur.com/vd9GFPX.jpg)

And clear.

(https://i.imgur.com/6WQKR9k.jpg)

Have also ordered primer.

(https://i.imgur.com/tu1yz7S.jpg)

Tack cloths.

(https://i.imgur.com/4VnKAFv.jpg)

And some proper work gloves. I am sick of cutting/burning myself when drilling or working with the power tools.

(https://i.imgur.com/jmVntgK.jpg)

The orange was just a coincidence  :LolLolLolLol:

That should take care of the paint job, so I am now ordering small parts. Got some peg chain tensioners as I damaged the paint on the 2hip getting the wheel straight. Nothing bad, and only really under the pegs, but yeah.

(https://i.imgur.com/4ef0tf4.jpg)

I don't think there is much left to buy now. I need an upper gyro cable (silver with any luck) and a brake cable for the front brake (again, silver).

Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Mikku on August 10, 2021, 09:57 PM
I can't keep up with your builds/rebuilds/breakdowns! ;D

Anyway, I'm a bit late to the party for this one but I'm in! You know when you've been tango'd! :daumenhoch:
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 10, 2021, 10:36 PM
Well my nearly two weeks off gives you a chance to catch up  :LolLolLolLol:

Will be back at it Friday.
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 12, 2021, 01:31 PM
Back over a day early. Spent an hour opening the parcels and throwing away packing.

(https://i.imgur.com/QO4UCGz.jpg)

Paint came.

(https://i.imgur.com/D0isVNe.jpg)

Huge hub.

(https://i.imgur.com/X6z4LWV.jpg)

And the finished rear wheel. I did finish it, but I didn't get any pics before I left.

(https://i.imgur.com/rMMkRZn.jpg)
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 13, 2021, 02:51 PM
I drilled the sprocket out yesterday. I also had a very bad accident  :LolLolLolLol:

I screwed the sprocket down with washers to a 3ft piece of 4x2. I then started drilling. Only, the drill malfunctioned. It happened before when I was taking paint off of the T1. However, I thought it was my error. It wasn't. I think the spring is gone in the "always on" button and somehow it activated. The drill bit jammed, nearly breaking my wrist. I let go thinking it would just drop, but the always on was active. It took off, smashing me in the toes (I thought three were broken, this morning I think it's just two) and then took off, smashed me in the stomach winding me before blowing up.

(https://i.imgur.com/Ab9iXK4.jpg)

Called an ambulance, but instead they asked me about ten thousand questions, no ambulance. Nice to know that when you are lying on the ground winded and bleeding it turns into question time. Took a couple of very strong codeine, taped up my toes and went back to work. I think I can save the sprocket. It just needs some filing where the hole is slightly off centre. I fitted the seat.

(https://i.imgur.com/wTqwxO9.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/pnBAJIx.jpg)

And then did some work on the front end.

(https://i.imgur.com/S1D918u.jpg)

Now it doesn't look like I have done much, but I have. Firstly that is a completely custom made upper cable. Instead of a Y split it uses a double barrel with two cables in. Sadly it wasnt compatible with the lever. Thankfully I still have a working drill, and my Dremel. So I modded the lever too.

(https://i.imgur.com/75nl511.jpg)

I then modded the way it works. You are supposed to just rest the double plate against your brake. However, I decided to use the lever adjuster through the plate. As I said, a lot of work for something you barely notice. The end result though is super clean.

(https://i.imgur.com/CbWbGyU.jpg)

I then had a big issue with the Demolition brakes. The way the brake is designed means it wants the cable on the right back side of the fork. Problem is...

(https://i.imgur.com/2kvzgG0.jpg)

My cable holster is on the left back side. Meaning I either don't use that and use a cable tie (eww) or I have to get creative again. Note there is now a barrel adjuster in there? that came from my spares. However, it would not fit because Demolition decided to use a custom shaped hole. So once again I was back on the power tools (drill and a file) to make that fit. However, it still doesn't end there. There is now at the moment no way to lock the cable in, as the other side is a barrel fitting. Meaning I need a round knarp.

Not what you expect on one of the most expensive brakes on the market.

Now today? dear god. The codeine has worn off and I feel like I have been hit by a truck. So I won't be doing anything today.
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 13, 2021, 06:21 PM
It is powder under the orange, so I was correct about that.

It's about 1mm thick, I shit you not.

Power strip does work, but I fookin ran out  :rant:

(https://i.imgur.com/yrH58Ew.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/cJ8INWv.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/wBle9lW.jpg)

Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 13, 2021, 07:31 PM
Filed the sprocket of death and destruction. It now fits.

(https://i.imgur.com/ky3oIkp.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/3LtrFgR.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/k9CHb37.jpg)

So, that really only leaves the frame left on the list of suck.
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 13, 2021, 09:52 PM
So with custom paint, custom cranks, changing pedal bodies, drilling out sprockets to fit and brake mods (including custom cables and etc) you would think I would try and make some of this easier. Oh, and add custom built wheels and trying to source the spokes and front hub to that too. As the saying goes "If you're gonna be dumb you gotta be tough". I think I will have that as my epitaph ffs.

Now I originally bought two Gsport Van pegs. These are steel. They are also 10mm, and you can not get them in 14 any more. Meaning, I would either have to buy a proper cobalt bit and drill them (after what happened yesterday I would rather not, thx) or send them off to my mate to machine. Problem is then you add postal delays, extra cost for the back and forth etc.

I was kinda pissed at the 28 quid entry fee for the "Pleg 2.0". That said I've always been a huge fan of George French, and always will be. I used to get him to make me strange things in the 90s. Like solid seat posts for old bikes because they used to bend and snap etc. So, I wanted to use some Gsport parts at some point. Hence not minding the tax so much. What I did not envisage though was that "2.0" means something.

(https://i.imgur.com/LN2D9hD.jpg)

Yeah see I was confused too. WTF 28 quid and I get two pegs? only you don't. You get one full PLEG with the insert and a spare body. IE the plastic sleeve. Which kinda sucked, because I'd be lucky to slide down a water slide these days let alone a bloody rail. However, then it dawned on me. Instead of bothering my mate to pee around machining out the steel pegs (which look totally different) why not model the insert and get him to machine me two more? good thing is Email is free, and that means only one way shipping. Plus it means I can fire over the model and then get on with the shit ton of jobs I still have looming over me. So, remove insert.

(https://i.imgur.com/msxKg3B.jpg)

Model.

(https://i.imgur.com/haBA925.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/Z858NGe.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/4pRjJQq.jpg)

Save file, send email, job done on my end. Phew.

I will use the steel ones on my Kizz. Which has 10mm female stud axles.
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 14, 2021, 12:56 PM
(https://i.imgur.com/5VLHiLa.jpg)
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 15, 2021, 03:34 AM
Needed a headset. It came with one (alloy original Aheadset) but there were tell tale signs of thread locker in the steerer shims. What I mean is, the head tube is over sized. It has shims and on those shims I can clearly see blue loctite. This was the issue with alloy headsets on heavy frames. Before you know it they crush and that's all she wrote. Loctite doesn't fix it, it just delays the inevitable.

I won't lie I have absolutely done my bollocks on this build. Mostly because I sold some quite desirable PC gear I was hanging onto as spare, but didn't want it to flop and lose all value. I did it because I want it to be the one bike I never have to revisit or have a "what if" moment like I have with pretty much every bike I have. I was going to buy another of those lovely Tange Tank MX for 23 quid or so, but then remembered I had never proven that with a gyro. The fact it is called MX makes me worry size was not a consideration. As such I bought pretty much the best go to headset for gyros and external cups.

(https://i.imgur.com/n8g7OMt.jpg)

I also forgot to order rim strips. These cost me the same as any other, but are reinforced. So why not.

(https://i.imgur.com/JxRBNmZ.jpg)

I don't really need anything else, but hey never say never.
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 15, 2021, 03:38 AM
Oh yeah and I'm fooked if I am smashing chrome off of the fork. I'm also not smashing in the races with a rubber hammer either, because the bearings for the cranks are large and the cups quite delicate.

(https://i.imgur.com/TeYqyeM.jpg)
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 16, 2021, 03:26 PM
Tools arrived. Was surprised how macho the crown race tool is.

(https://i.imgur.com/sFx58QN.jpg)

Bought some of those. Fitted a rim tape to the finished wheel, still waiting for spokes. Stripper is coming tomorrow via Fedex, so as long as it doesn't piss down I should be able to get down to the metal. Which is good, because then I can start repairs.
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 16, 2021, 04:06 PM
Bah  :LolLolLolLol:

(https://i.imgur.com/aNKnJTw.jpg)

This was really cool. Never bought folding tyres before.

(https://i.imgur.com/rShM61f.jpg)

There's an issue. See if you can spot it.

(https://i.imgur.com/RirpgG4.jpg)

Yup, the pump head doesn't fit. So I can't inflate them  :LolLolLolLol:

They do, however, look just as ridiculous as I had hoped.

(https://i.imgur.com/q1PxWfo.jpg)

More bloody money  :LolLolLolLol:

(https://i.imgur.com/AJFVsme.jpg)
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 17, 2021, 03:31 PM
Yo baby can I get another lap dance?

(https://i.imgur.com/44DQMKt.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/8ajCelX.jpg)

Joy of all joys.

(https://i.imgur.com/xhSplkP.jpg)
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 17, 2021, 04:53 PM
Right, just dressed the frame. Removed all of the rust from the races, frame etc. Did a lot of filing with the belt file, sorted the drops (bad cutting by the machine) and etc.

Have put some JB on. Hopefully it's enough, due to the at least 24 hour hardening time. That said the spokes *should* be here tomorrow for the front wheel, so I can get on with that whilst the (possible) second application dries.
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 17, 2021, 05:06 PM
BTW this is what I mean by dress the frame. Whatever cut the drops (lazer? plasma? IDK) didn't do a very nice job. No one even bothered to file them or anything either.

(https://i.imgur.com/KqY2S0w.jpg)

I thought it was just damage but it's not. It's simply where no one cleaned them up after they were cut, and just welded them straight on. I will show it cleaned up later.
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 17, 2021, 05:36 PM
(https://i.imgur.com/aHbLtX5.jpg)


(https://i.imgur.com/OyeKRf5.jpg)

Dressing done, no rust. Just a light sanding needed now (well after I file down all of the filler lol)

(https://i.imgur.com/GoXysa2.jpg)

I also want to give a shout out to the frame for being the most annoying frame EVER to work on. It won't sit fooking still  :LolLolLolLol: Only just had this idea FFS.

(https://i.imgur.com/z7GXgrB.jpg)
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 18, 2021, 02:45 PM
(https://i.imgur.com/TgF7H05.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/GkHMEMi.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/ZKGEAV3.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/qZk6dEW.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/V6qcl8J.jpg)

Will tighten and true later. That's the easy part. Bits.

(https://i.imgur.com/AKP0fk2.jpg)

Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 18, 2021, 03:59 PM
Done. I even get the arvo off !

(https://i.imgur.com/MIvSDyg.jpg)
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 18, 2021, 05:35 PM
(https://i.imgur.com/eoQif3A.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/UxqqZu0.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/ukgTdi4.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/hGsrF92.jpg)

Needs a good wet sand now and a tiny bit more JB. Still, at least it's coated and I don't have to keep fighting rust so there's that.
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 18, 2021, 08:02 PM
Only needed a tiny skim.

(https://i.imgur.com/JrrwPo8.jpg)

Barends.

(https://i.imgur.com/Xm8xlqw.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/maly5b6.jpg)

And tomorrow we scrub the white shit from the tyres.

(https://i.imgur.com/eKiDyct.jpg)
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 19, 2021, 01:26 PM
Right, I tried to scrub the white shit from the tyres last night. Twice. It just made it worse.

(https://i.imgur.com/IozgbWK.jpg)

I did, however, notice that when wet it vanishes.

(https://i.imgur.com/Rkhm9Rx.jpg)

Normally I would never resort to such tartiness, but I'm fudged if I have done more work than on any other bike to have them looking like some bird shat all over them for the glory pics.
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 19, 2021, 02:46 PM
(https://i.imgur.com/qAhAQYz.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/pWsQucD.jpg)

And then it rained. *sigh*. Oh well, all it needs is a good wipe over with isoprop, then some more primer. After a couple of hours from that it should be ready for the orange base. Tomorrow? god knows with the way the weather is now.
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 19, 2021, 07:05 PM
Got a break in the rain. The sun even came out. Got some more primer down over the final repairs.

(https://i.imgur.com/GRxoSGY.jpg)

The primer sagged a bit around the repair. Mostly because I put it down quite heavy. I was in a rush as I felt the rain spitting.

(https://i.imgur.com/HVSd66K.jpg)

It was fine though. I just wanted something to sand back. Which I did about two hours later with P1200 wet. I gave the whole frame a going over too with the same, then cleaned, degreased, tacked and down went the base.

(https://i.imgur.com/VMKGlNr.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/fhB040j.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/QE6iyl6.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/CFu0Aq8.jpg)

I had some fear over this one tbh. The colour is very close to being fluorescent. Meaning it's almost day glo. Meaning it is usually like chalky powder. That's one thing I have learned with these paints by Kobra. Most are lovely and smooth and a good wet coat is fine, some are very chalky. Like the Dirt Bike NG I did in beige, and the white S&M CW. This however? was the same as the blue. Phew.

My confidence was knocked a bit when I felt one drop of rain and it started to darken, so I literally camped on the back door step for 20 minutes waiting for the last coat of base to flash over.

(https://i.imgur.com/fhB040j.jpg)

It's in.

(https://i.imgur.com/JME83eZ.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/XyCuGwJ.jpg)

Now tomorrow apparently is the last good day for a good few. So, fingers crossed I can get the flake down on it tomorrow and the clear. Weekend is going to be a total washout apparently.
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 20, 2021, 01:28 PM
(https://i.imgur.com/cbpU0bG.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/kQ57Z3b.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/7rrcj8U.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/NQ4mNei.jpg)
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 20, 2021, 02:28 PM
OK it's done. I let the carrier layer with the flake in flash and then went over it with a tack cloth. This is *really* important because a lot of the flake will dry in the air and land on the frame as over spray. This means it can be sticking up, making the finish rough. So you really must get all that off before you go near it with clear coat.

(https://i.imgur.com/DbcafSg.jpg)

Seriously I need a bloody holiday.

(https://i.imgur.com/OpOCw7w.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/z68VojY.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/Y5CBInI.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/1iBI5yH.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/7iBU10v.jpg)
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 20, 2021, 05:13 PM
(https://i.imgur.com/kolYKaI.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/lEZ6l6b.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/ijBL1vP.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/Qz6q8GL.jpg)

Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 20, 2021, 07:10 PM
I figured I would see how my new roller ball cup press was. Amazing, it seems.

(https://i.imgur.com/VwOsgny.jpg)

Time for some fun.

(https://i.imgur.com/sgRV8GA.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/wRsDIna.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/E0ROKT8.jpg)
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 20, 2021, 09:08 PM
Today I learned.

That Demolition Vulcan brakes are not only CNC. Oh no. They run on sealed bearings. That blew my mind.

(https://i.imgur.com/flW9gSJ.jpg)

I also learned that Phat Padds are the shit.

(https://i.imgur.com/TWQPvyK.jpg)

And if you sit on the floor long enough you will fook your back up and have to take 60mg codeine  :LolLolLolLol:

(https://i.imgur.com/0eqCu6E.jpg)

Seriously though. All of that dumb shit aside. This bike is absolutely amazing. Like, all over. I've never worked so hard on something, taken crazy risks on something or been so amazed when shit actually worked. Of all of the bikes I have ever built I would say this is the only one I would consider a true masterpiece and a show worthy bike.
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Glynnyboy on August 21, 2021, 12:27 PM
Fantastic job and a great read. Can't wait for the end result  fistblump explosion
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 21, 2021, 01:50 PM
Thanks Glynn. It's nice to actually have time to sit down and read it back myself ! been going at it 12 hours a day for over a week. If I'm not working on it I am sat down planning my next move, looking  at parts etc.

I do have something else lined up for this. But I will probably crack that out in a day or two, then show it.
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 22, 2021, 06:23 PM
OK here goes. Custom stand. Bought a double stand with no intention of using both. I just wanted it wide so the bike doesn't fall over. It's heavy.

I bought this a while ago. Look familiar? cool.

(https://i.imgur.com/zL1bbVr.jpg)

Note. These are A3 panels. I already had a flat black one (3mm acrylic) left from a PC I built. first thing I had to do was cut the relief cuts so I could get a good trace. I did this before taking any pics.

(https://i.imgur.com/CVwLOZI.jpg)

I already had a load of stickers that came with the parts. One side will be like a billboard, the other not so much. Also note, the other side will not be black hence the 5 hours in making black decals last night.

(https://i.imgur.com/AH62ueB.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/cSMZg4u.jpg)

You will see what those black shapes are for in the future. Today it was cut, edge, polish edges and drill and tap.

(https://i.imgur.com/6GDtZKd.jpg)

Then.

(https://i.imgur.com/ei0Hlqr.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/sc20XoM.jpg)

And.

(https://i.imgur.com/bw2OqJY.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/JdMDD9B.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/vdKR1C8.jpg)

I can now use that as a template for the other side, which will be made from this.

(https://i.imgur.com/ZUXr2AI.jpg)
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 22, 2021, 10:26 PM
Right, she's all done and dialled.

(https://i.imgur.com/JkVtlQr.jpg)

Aside from the pegs of course.

(https://i.imgur.com/zZ9QQyU.jpg)
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Mikku on August 23, 2021, 11:42 AM
Great stuff, as always. :daumenhoch:
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 23, 2021, 04:03 PM
Thanks Mick. OK, so side two.

(https://i.imgur.com/WEdiaLt.jpg)

And then those stencils. The black shapes I designed and cut. They were stencils. /Mind numbing repetitiveness.

(https://i.imgur.com/4ov4DHv.jpg)

Once a world champion PC modder always a modder I guess  :LolLolLolLol:

(https://i.imgur.com/7Hw9Zjp.jpg)

And had to have orange felt to stop my lino getting torn up.

(https://i.imgur.com/qCblZz4.jpg)
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 23, 2021, 05:47 PM
(https://i.imgur.com/OawVZ56.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/5Bpcauk.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/mTP5Lfi.jpg)
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Glynnyboy on August 24, 2021, 12:01 AM
Looks sweet. Loving that.  8)
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 24, 2021, 12:05 AM
OK. So evening update. I ain't gonna lie I am absolutely exhausted. Not so much physically, but mentally. I am going to rest up for a couple of days.

There is an issue with the Plegs. Basically the inserts are tapered and my socket won't fit down them. It goes in about 2/3, then it gets jammed as I found out last night when it got stuck on the wheel  :LolLolLolLol:

I have ordered some thin wall sockets. This fixed the issue I had with the pedals where I could not get my 8mm socket in, so ordered some thin wall ones. I think that is what is causing it. Obviously this has thrown a spanner in my Fusion drawings, but I said to my buddy I would rather be safe than sorry, get the new sockets in and then design the tapered thickness totally around those so I can actually fit the pegs  :LolLolLolLol:

Obviously with the seat being suede (not expensive, but I don't want to destroy it because I really like it) it is covered. And obviously with me continually flipping it around to work on it the grips were getting filthy too, so they are covered. Wow. That means I am finally getting all precious like an old school collector  :LolLolLolLol:

It's things like the light strip and etc I need now. I am done doing the dirty, heavy, hard work. Two hours of filing those cover panels today and I can barely hold my arms up lol.

I also need to start looking at locations for the glory pics. Like, the final pics. Plenty around, just deciding on where.
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Mikku on August 24, 2021, 09:55 AM
Mate, that stand is friggin' amazing. I usually hate the things, especially when they're used for the money shots/glory pics, but that looks so pro that I may have to change my mind. Either that or commission you to make one for my UB2! :daumenhoch:

Enjoy the rest - you deserve it! :bow:
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 25, 2021, 01:38 PM
The sun was out so I got some pics. The impact sockets came today so I can fit two pegs and get the dimensions right for my friend to machine the other two (they are tapered inside...)

(https://i.imgur.com/raZRgys.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/qFyV2Op.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/fPBuDGA.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/fs3AHBV.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/h7Afo35.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/ODq9w7C.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/9xyOg3I.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/SBZBgZ8.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/xe56WKu.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/rNAXoak.jpg)
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 27, 2021, 12:34 AM
Needed new sockets to fit the pegs. I needed impact, as they are much narrower on the walls. Two are done.

(https://i.imgur.com/QLyDuXZ.jpg)

We also finalised the design for the custom inserts too. I've had a couple of days off. Needed it bad tbh.

Once this is done I will be onto collecting frames  :LolLolLolLol: and I have one I need to restore (the Ruben). So I will do that next year I reckon.
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on December 17, 2021, 02:57 PM
OK, truncated update. So I bought a set of NOS 6pc strips. That had been cut and then put back on the shelf. One side is slightly longer than the other.

(https://i.imgur.com/jBkORyv.jpg)

So a new upper front end was in order. New levers, as due to the cut 22.2 would not work. I got 1" Dirt Harrys. To sit on the 1" section. I also got a NOS Conspiracy stem. Matches the fork beautifully, but you boys know me there is no way the bolts are staying the way they are.

Front end is now on. Had to made a custom upper gyro cable out of a lower. I ordered a double (the last one is now way too short) but it will take ages regardless.

(https://i.imgur.com/T8UnpAm.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/j1VQEG6.jpg)

At the gyro end I used Knarps. At the top end I used this.

(https://i.imgur.com/DTxV0aQ.jpg)

Needs work. Greasy (that's easy) but those bolts are hideous.

(https://i.imgur.com/qlk7IWH.jpg)

I quite like the chunky gnarly look of them, just not with the letters. Cast your mind back to Manuel The Dirt Bike, and I will file that off and paint the faces.

So overall a super tidy setup that pulls the brake hard.

(https://i.imgur.com/ERE69tJ.jpg)
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on December 24, 2021, 11:18 PM
I have a strong desire to make this rideable. Even though it's barely liftable, and will be even less so when my evil plan hatches.

I bought this bash guard a while back.

(https://i.imgur.com/s9ocGQd.jpg?1)

It's over 1/2" thick.

(https://i.imgur.com/Ba8veBB.jpg?1)

And it's heavy. Very, very heavy. Perfect. I bought a 32t chain ring. Which is perfect again. 30-12 would not have been great, had I not ruined the sprocket.

(https://i.imgur.com/D90J2bT.jpg)

Tis like new. Just needs a good spit and shine. Problem is there's a piece of this hefty sandwich missing. Ah, that is because it does not exist. The bash guard is 94 BCD and was designed for dirt jump bikes. Which is kinda weird, because you don't see people on those grinding things. Black Spire made loads of BMX sprockets and products, so this must have been made when BMX was at a low ebb. So, how do you made it work when there is no "power disc"? well you make one.

(https://i.imgur.com/xMCL6X8.png)

Transformed into 3D with small pilot holes.

(https://i.imgur.com/eeLVigG.png)

Because my friend needs the parts to get the exact dimensions. Mostly because like I said, there are none to reference from given the part I need doesn't exist. Yet. I emphasise, yet.

(https://i.imgur.com/jaZPEKC.jpg?1)

One 6mm thick slab of T6. Will be sent off as soon as the festivities are over. I am a little gutted, as I won't like I wanted to ride this on Christmas day and pretend, but that isn't happening.

Forgot one. I was a little concerned about it actually clearing those ridiculous cranks. Turns out I had nothing to worry about.

(https://i.imgur.com/wvGdwTY.jpg)
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on July 22, 2022, 11:14 PM
lmao.

Warning: this topic has not been posted in for at least 120 days.
Unless you're sure you want to reply, please consider starting a new topic.

Man I can't believe it has been that long. Time flies  :LolLolLolLol:

I donated a bike to my friend's kid a while back now. He was thrilled (the FBM). Any way, when he was here my mate collected the materials to make the power disc. At the time he was having a new kitchen fitted. Well it turns out they were cowboys, and he has literally had to smack up the entire back garden to gain access to the drains etc. So I didn't ask about it as mates don't pester. Plus I am pretty chill, and I am not going to ride this behemoth any way. But, work began today.

(https://i.imgur.com/Rt9nJkp.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/FIxXwmP.jpg)
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 22, 2022, 08:56 PM
Goes back together next week.

(https://i.imgur.com/fyAdO6d.png)

(https://i.imgur.com/Run2Bqc.png)

(https://i.imgur.com/Cc38vSw.png)
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 27, 2022, 12:54 PM
Some things are totally worth the wait. Serious chonk  :LolLolLolLol:

(https://i.imgur.com/mrypgH0.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/N4l1bUH.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/F0X7t27.jpg)
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 27, 2022, 02:47 PM
Yup, had orange bolts. Managed to find the chain too, that was nice.

(https://i.imgur.com/hP7U3FQ.jpg)

Will do that next week.
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on August 28, 2022, 07:31 PM
Gave it a good brushing. I wish it was as it sounds. My hands are frigging black now.

(https://i.imgur.com/c6SFIlI.jpg)
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on September 01, 2022, 03:45 PM
Right well I got home.

Sadly I had bought a new hoover (which I needed) and a load of other boring house stuff I needed to lug up the stairs. I did bring the disc etc and the chain but I could not fit any tools in my backpack. I already had a keyboard and other stuff in there.

(https://i.imgur.com/rbr2rTf.jpg)

Sadly that is far as I got with the screwdriver set (that has allen bits in it) I had. I already ordered tools, but like I said just too heavy and too much. I have two socket sets (one regular one long impact) so I did buy a new arm and extension (to make two full sets, one to bring home). I also needed another one of these because I've lost mine.

(https://i.imgur.com/AXJQmBA.jpg)

I will also need thread lock (ordered) to stop it getting any ideas. It all works pretty strange on those cranks. Once those arrive tomorrow and the thread lock I should be able to get them back on though. Not tight, as all I have is a screwdriver, but on.
Title: Re: The orange tank. Morales BTS MK2.
Post by: Midschoolfool on September 03, 2022, 07:39 PM
Done. Almost ffs. Need to move the back brake pads as the wheel now sits further back on the new setup.

(https://i.imgur.com/nKW8exu.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/fftwgRA.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/fWgWGvA.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/xMRyWeX.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/8wQwII7.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/enSzd4I.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/rZvLrjw.jpg)

I need to dust it off a bit. It's sat there for a year waiting for parts. Also, if you ever find one of these frames or the others this will help you. I will leave this full sized, so you can open it in another tab and read it properly.

(https://i.imgur.com/4la42B9.jpg)

I am hoping to find time soon to make videos about my bikes. I will holler if I get around to it  :LolLolLolLol:
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