@jackrimer
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After the original lift, the model traverses the whole course via gravity. There is no boost or propulsion applied to the train. In fact, we have brakes to slow it down near the end because of the energy left over.
You guys should recognize this model. We are building it for the ASTRA toy show next week at the convention center in Pittsburgh. It will be displayed in the concourse of the convention center during the show. After that, Kennywood is taking possession of the model to promote The Steel Curtain at the park. Eventually it will be stored at the Heinz History Center with other park memorabilia. This really showcases what can be built with the CDX Blocks system. The model will be 16’ long and 52” tall. I still have another couple days of work to do on it.
I just took a Cyclone, bought about $40 worth of parts from Bricklink, and Voila! Plus it has a loop. 🙂
It’s about that time of year…. Thoughts turn to Kennywood and summer picnics. 🙂
My suggestion would be to get with the builder of the Jack Rabbit to discuss the size requirements for a base and ravine depth.Neither the Jack Rabbit nor the Thunderbolt will take many supports. They hug the ground so the terrain is an integral part of the design.
The person who made this lives in Pittsburgh. Perhaps you could get with him and work on building terrain for this ride rather than the Thunderbolt.
Someone sent us this today. It is absolutely brilliant. If you have ever ridden the Jack Rabbit, you will know what I mean.
That’s not our system. In fact, judging from the track, I don’t think it even functions. The transitions are not smooth enough for a train with no upstop wheels to negotiate the circuit.
Did you have issues with the train staying engaged on the lift? If so, (common problem) be sure to look at step 23. You probably didn’t add the intermediate crossties between the stationary crossties on the lift.
I could design the Thunderbolt on perhaps a wooden base. I would need you all to build terrain over the base and add all scenery.I am willing to send a kit up for someone or a group of you all to build. Just to get a feel for how the system works.
It’s hard to say how large it would be until I laid it out. I’m guessing the ravine might be 12″-18″ deep. The height of the ride would be similar. Perhaps about 6′-8′ long (wide) and only 3′ deep (front to back). The top part of the ride would have flat terrain as would the turn around area. The only terrain would be the valley. I’m guessing we would build a wooden “table” and then cover it with blocks rather than build it up from all bricks.
This is Jack from CDX Blocks. We make the Cyclone roller coaster kit. It’s going to be difficult for me to discuss our set without it appearing like I’m degrading the competition, but our system is light years ahead of what is available from Lego or Brickcoaster. For starters, we have 4 precision machines stainless steel wheels on each car. This allows the train to roll equally well upright, sideways, and upside down. Plus, the metal wheels in a Delrin housing give unbelievable efficiency. If you were to see the system in person, I think it would be more obvious. Do you have monthly meeting? I would be happy to send a kit to someone to build and show to the LUG.
