Everything Wrong With The World's Largest Off Road Wrecker!
**Building an Off-Road Recovery Vehicle: Design Choices and Challenges**
When building an off-road recovery vehicle, there are several key design choices that need to be made to ensure functionality, safety, and performance. One of the most critical decisions is where to place the engine and cab. In this case, the engine has been moved as far back as possible, with the cab positioned near the center of the vehicle. This design choice was made for two main reasons: to avoid obstructing the approach angle of the front of the vehicle and to allow the cab to be set as low as possible.
The reasoning behind this placement is clear when you look at any rock crawler; the engine should be positioned behind the front axle and as low as possible. This ensures that the vehicle can navigate rough terrain without interference from the engine or cab. By placing the cab near the center, the driver has better visibility and control over the entire rig.
One common question that arises is about crew seating. Some viewers have commented that there isn’t enough space for a crew in this design. However, the builder firmly believes that this vehicle is not meant to be a crew transport but rather an off-road recovery machine. Adding an extra cab would impede visibility and take up valuable space needed for the tow truck components. The focus here is on functionality, not passenger comfort.
Another point of discussion has been the lack of air ride suspension. While air ride suspension can provide a smoother ride, it wasn’t considered necessary for this build. The builder explained that the hood and grill are mounted rigidly, which wouldn’t work well with air ride suspension systems. Instead, the builder is confident that the current design will provide a comfortable and capable ride.
The builder has also been asked about the overall size of the vehicle. With a length of 208 inches and a width of 91 inches, it’s important to ensure that the rig can navigate trails without being too wide or tall. The builder compared the width to that of a four-door Gladiator, which is 89.5 inches wide, and assured viewers that the vehicle will fit through necessary trails as long as there isn’t excessive sand blocking the way.
When it comes to weight, the builder addressed concerns about whether the engine is powerful enough to handle the rig’s weight. The same engine used in a 20,000-pound RV has proven capable of handling such heavy loads, so there’s no doubt that it can manage the 12,000-pound vehicle being built here. The builder mentioned that the top speed will likely be around 55 mph, which is more than sufficient for off-road conditions.
The builder also discussed the importance of maintaining a clear view from the driver’s seat to ensure safety and control. With the cab positioned near the center, the driver can see all four corners of the rig without obstruction. This visibility is crucial when navigating challenging terrain and managing recovery operations.
In terms of design, the builder emphasized that this vehicle is not meant to be a showpiece but rather a functional tool for off-road recovery. The focus has been on creating a durable and reliable machine that can handle the demands of southern Utah trails. As a result, there’s no intention of adding unnecessary features like air ride suspension or extra seating.
One viewer asked about the necessity of modifying an existing vehicle versus starting from scratch. The builder explained that the process began with building a buggy first and then adding tow truck components to it. This approach ensures that the base vehicle is capable and reliable before any additional features are added.
The builder also addressed concerns about the frame’s flexibility. While some argue that a slightly flexible frame can absorb shocks better, the builder believes that a rigid tube chassis is more appropriate for this build. The frame will be heavily reinforced with cross-bracing and boxing to ensure it remains as rigid as possible. This rigidity will help prevent any deflection during operation.
The builder mentioned that while air ride suspension might offer some benefits, it’s not worth the hassle in this case. The current design already provides a smooth ride, thanks in part to the use of high-quality components and careful construction. The focus remains on creating a machine that is both capable and comfortable for long hours on the road or trail.
The builder also shared some lighter moments, including struggles with removing a race car from the attic. The car was placed there under the assumption that it would be hidden once the building was finished, but now that central air conditioning is being installed, the car needs to be moved to make space for the new unit. The builder joked about the mess left behind and the challenges of dealing with such a large project.
Another amusing moment came when the builder surprised Robbie Layton with modified fenders for his trailer. While Robbie initially only asked for help welding a broken fender, the builder decided to go above and beyond by modifying the entire front end of the trailer. The surprise was well-received, and Robbie expressed gratitude for the unexpected upgrade.
The builder also mentioned that while the current design might not be as sleek or showy as some other vehicles, it’s designed to be practical and functional. There are no plans to repaint or add unnecessary cosmetic features, as the focus is on durability and performance.
In conclusion, building an off-road recovery vehicle requires careful consideration of every detail, from engine placement to frame rigidity. The builder has made deliberate choices to ensure that the final product is a reliable and capable machine. While there are challenges along the way, including dealing with large projects like removing a race car or modifying a trailer, the end result will be worth it.
The builder also emphasized the importance of teamwork and support from friends and collaborators. Projects like these don’t just belong to one person but are the result of collective effort and dedication. With everyone working together, the builder is confident that the final product will meet all expectations and be ready for action on the trails.