1/12 Aluminum Wheel Unveil

[Seabass]

Guys after six months of breaking tools, programming and reprogramming, I finally have something to show for all the work I have done. I initially tried this way back in June but ran into major problems. The new machine is making things easier but I still have a way to go. The size of these wheels makes things difficult when trying to reach deep inside the wheel while milling.

The endmill used for the spokes is super small and has inch long flutes making the job really tough. I have a few other things to try but I wanted to actually show the first successful wheel, although it is still messed up . I ran the program super slow, and this was the result of a 2 1/2 hour run. At least the machine held up .

I had one of my programs named wrong and ran it with the wrong tool, moving the work piece ever so slightly. I ended up continuing because I wanted to see if I could actually make it through a wheel without breaking any tools.

I have a large quantity of these wheels planned for the near future with mounted and trued tires. I am not sure when the completion date will be but after I finish a couple more jobs, I plan on dedicating the mill to this project which will probably take weeks to complete, considering how many I want to make.

I wanted to show you guys my success as well as failure all in the same go. Get your 12Ls ready for some pretty cool wheels

[RC10resto]

Wow!
Very nice detail, look forward to seeing a full set mounted up

[shodog]

That is sick as hell. Makes me want a 1/12 scale car just so I can put your wheels on it

[Seabass]

Once I start the production run, most of the wheels will be sent to be anodized. Once they return they will be machined again so the spokes are gold and walls are raw aluminum.

I bet that Corvette GTB body from the 12L box art with these wheels would look incredible.

The production run is going to be long and painful but in the end I think it will be worth it.

Shodog - You should start looking for one now, there are always really nice ones on eBay for reasonable prices

[scr8p]

[DHood]

DAMN YOU!!!!! Something else I'm gonna have to buy! I've been wanting some 1/12 alloys forever..

[janaya]

I think these look freakin sweet, you got some skills. I too may have start looking for 1/12 scale.

[slotcarrod]

CHUUUUUB ! Me likey, you offering any sets in bst or eBay only? Idea on price with mounted and eta?

[mrlexan]

Nice, I am interested in a set. Any chance in the future you can tighten up the spoke size to go back a few years in the BBS family. The pictured would be 1980s and what you have is more 1990s (i know I am being a purist).

[Niki]

It has been difficult to keep my mouth shut about these wheels. Especially when people ask in various topics if these could be done
For sure these are extremely tough items to machine. Good reference in Jake's picture where standard plastic front wheel can be seen also. That size pattern really is a challange. You did it Jake, thumbs up...!

-Niki-

[teman]

Killer If you don't mind me asking, what are we looking at price wise?

[PlastiZapCA+]

Awesome! I can't wait for them to be available. I figured the rear wheels would be tough due to the small working area. Thanks so much for putting in the effort on these. I doubt you will have trouble moving these out once you have a completed run. I know I'll be needing several sets.

[Seabass]

No idea on a price just yet.

Jay I wish I could but I don't have the experience to do what you are asking since the work area is so small. I will keep you in mind and if I comes up with a way to do it you will be the first to know.

Dang purist types...

[myfordcnc]

How about using a water jet for the really tight stuff?

[mrlexan]

Thanks, count me in for one set of this design. If you do end up making the others, I'd be down for a number of sets.... I'd put one on every 1/12 car I have.