Recent lessons learned

Small but useful bits of information:

 - Rub 'n Buff adheres nicely to textured plastic. 

 - Rub 'n Buff doesn't stick to aluminum pop rivets at all.

 - Brass pop rivets are a bit pricey but may become useful anyway.

 - Don't put too much torque on a plastic drive shaft.

 - Buying a V belt at an auto parts store is a little confusing if you don't have a part number.

 - When adding a video to a blog make sure you select "video" from the menu.

One more working element

In Motion

It has taken longer to get this project moving than I had hoped, but it is in fact moving.

There are several more elements to be added, but I was anxious to share this much action.

Penrod Arts Fair

I was able to attend the Penrod Arts Fair today.  I spoke with some wonderful artists and enjoyed seeing many interesting and excellent pieces.

Sure, there was all kinds of different art there, but these are the pieces my camera went for.

Just a coincidence ???

1. Attempting to paint outdoors in unfavorable weather conditions has been entirely unsuccessful.

2. The maker space (which will include a paint area) that I hope to participate with will probably not be opening until May of next year.

These two facts lead me to the conclusion that I need to install a painting booth / vent hood in my basement. I decided I could probably build one if I could find a "squirrel cage" fan without spending much. If I could find a disused furnace fan it would draw more than enough air to keep odors out of the house.

Within 48 hours of having these thoughts, I'm driving home and spot an old furnace set out at the curb. I loaded it up and hauled it home.

 Step one of the vent hood is complete.

The furnace is dismantled and in addition to the fan I found a synchronous motor,  a few contact switches and some other interesting bits.

Step two of the vent hood is complete.

The Circle City Industrial Complex

Just for fun lets start the story in 1909.

The first automobile race held in Indianapolis was in 1909. It was five miles long.  The average speed was 57.4 m.p.h. and the winner was Louis Schwitzer.

The story by the History Channel  

Louis Schwitzer was more of an engineer than a driver. He was responsible for significant improvements in cooling, hydraulics and the development os the turbocharger.  In the 1920's this building was constructed and became a significant part of the auto industry  in Indianapolis. It was known as the Schwitzer Building.

More details from Hemmings collector car magazine

The building has been through a lot of changes in the last 90 years.

It continues to be changed, redesigned and renovated. There are exciting things in the works for this building.  It may even include a little bit of space that will suit me.

A leasing agent gave me a tour and I am excited about the possibilities. I took this blurry picture, of some space on the second floor that will soon be converted to studio space and could even become my studio space.