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Time Machine Laboratories
 
History and Development of the Time Machine


Some time back, a fellow designed and sold plans for the construction of a 3-wheeled vehicle and called it the "Tri-Magnum".  It was a very elaborate design that required knowledge of welding and foam/fiberglass body construction.   I bought these plans and was completely intimidated by them.  

About 5 years ago I finally bought a welder and needed a project.  I fell back onto the idea of a 3-wheeler and reviewed these plans.  While I felt the concept was interesting and manageable, the body construction seemed to demand an inordinate amount of time, talent and weight, all of which would lead to discouragement and ultimate failure.

I liked the idea of using the business end of a motorcycle which would leave the engine, transmission, clutch, drive shaft, shocks and brakes intact and then buttoning that up to the front end of a VW, which took care of steering and front suspension.   A platform was designed for seating and the gas, clutch and brakes were all hooked up and a rough body was fashioned around it for wind and weather protection.    It was all pretty rough but the thing took me from Florida to Illinois....and back ! all the while racing along at upwards to 55mph.

The second attempt was much more refined and drivable.  I learned that weight matters and this version was much stronger and more comfortable.

The third was constructed around a BMW K100.  This one is a real hot rod, but noise levels and vibration suffer a bit.

I have taken each of these machines on road trips of no less than 2,000 miles and put double or triple that amount in local driving.   With my design, the engine is accessible for servicing, I incorporated a stereo/CD player, doors are removable by pulling two pins, and the craft is remarkably weather tight.   There are NO luxuries like a heater, power anything, or windshield wipers. (This is a motorcycle by law)  I  am getting just over 40 mpg on the latest model.  The goldwings were about the same or better.  The later versions are capable of any legal highway speed you choose.  Their weights are either just above or just below 800lbs, which is fully within range for any touring bike.

You can view photos of the Time Machine on other web pages at this site.  You will see some of the finished product and of the construction process.

This web site is targeted at the guy (or girl) who likes a project.  If you are able to weld and have a collection of hand tools, a grinder and cheap drill press, you can build this.   I am selling the manual for $39.99, plus $10 for shipping (postal rates are a pain).

You can go to the "Manual" page for ordering instructions.  As part of the purchase price, I am available for advise and explanation and may be able to provide certain parts that you find too difficult to fabricate.

E-mail me at stevespudic@aol.com