Introduction to the Project
Welcome to our project where we breathe new life into the iconic 1989 Volvo 240DL. This classic beauty has undergone a significant transformation with the installation of a powerful 5.3L LS engine sourced from a 2004 Tahoe. Backing this powertrain in a true sloppy mechanics fashion is a 4L80e from a 2004 2500 Express Van 2WD. This swap combines vintage charm with contemporary power to make a comfortable ride in and unexpected burnout machine.
Key Modifications
The engine swap utilizes Giffin Fabrication Works mounts, ensuring a robust fit in the engine bay. We’ve also installed forward-facing truck turbo headers, which are crucial for optimizing exhaust flow with the 7875 Turbo. To support this new powerhouse, we’ve replaced the fuel pump, gas tank and installed larger fuel lines, guaranteeing sufficient fuel delivery under all conditions.
Suspension and Braking System Upgrades
Handling is paramount in any vehicle, which is why all suspension and brake components in the Volvo 240DL have been replaced. We’ve equipped it with IPD stiffer sway bars, offering improved stability and cornering abilities. This setup ensures that the car performs admirably not just in a straight line but also in dynamic turns, making every drive an exhilarating experience.
All the exhaust, wiring, and fitting work has been performed in-house, showcasing our dedication to meticulous craftsmanship. Whether you’re a classic car enthusiast or simply curious about engine swaps, this project encapsulates the blend of modern engineering within a classic frame. Stay tuned for further updates as we continue refining this 1989 Volvo 240DL!
Introduction to Superior Sound
When your job involves a lot of driving, having the best sound system in your vehicle can make all the difference. Whether you’re commuting from job to job or spending long hours on the road, an excellent audio experience can enhance your daily routine. Unfortunately, many commercial vehicles, come with sound systems that leave much to be desired.
Adding Some Low End
For this customers installation, the factory speakers can do a decent job of the high and mide frequencies, especially when you offload the lowend from the midrange to a dedicated subwoofer. So to fill in the low end, the installation of a Dayton Ultimax subwoofer is a great option and with a few measurements, a sealed enclosure was designed to meet the space constraints.
Passion Projects
Some of the most thrilling endeavors are in nostalgia, in this project a legendary Fi BTL 18″ subwoofer was rebuilt and repurposed, a true gem that came into my possession. Repurposing this iconic sub was not just a task; it was a significant milestone on my bucket list. Treasuring its potential, I set out to craft something extraordinary.
New Beginnings
The journey began with a necessary recone process, ensuring that this subwoofer would perform at its best. To house this sub, a construction pilon tube, commonly referred to as a sonotube. Each end of the tube was capped with precision-cut pieces from the CNC.
Finishing Touches
Incorporating a correctly sized port was a crucial step in optimizing performance. After meticulous planning and measurements, the port was installed. To complete this project, I fitted an active amplifier on the top cap. Each phase of the build was a labor of love, driven by my passion for sound engineering and design, transforming a mere vision into a roaring reality.
Introduction to the Nain Rouge Sound System
The Nain Rouge sound system represents more than just an audio device; it embodies a connection to the local legends of Detroit, Michigan. Named after a creature from folklore whose appearance is said to foretell misfortune for white settlers, this project seeks to merge artistry with sound engineering and culture. I crafted this sound system to capture the essence of the legendary Nain Rouge.
Building the System with Precision
Utilizing my second 3D printed CNC machine, specifically the lowrider 2 by V1 Engineering, I meticulously constructed the audio system. The heart of the sound lies in the robust 2x 15″ subwoofer bins, equipped with precision device drivers that deliver exceptional bass performance. Furthermore, the mids are reinforced by MKH-230 kick bins, while the top frequencies are articulated through a pair of upcycled and modified Bag End TA-12 speakers, ensuring a balanced sound across all ranges.
The Finishing Touches
This sound system is not merely functional; it is also a visual spectacle. After the components were assembled, they were stained in a vibrant red hue, reminiscent of the folklore’s ominous theme. The final touch was a painstakingly polished clear coat, resulting in a piano shine finish that enhances both the aesthetic and tactile experience of the system. The Nain Rouge sound system combines rich sound quality with striking visual elements, reflecting the spirit and tales of Detroit.
Keeping the classics alive
At the request of a friend facing the challenge of unavailable parts, a design was developed based on an existing broken outboard motor part. Using measuremnet and scanning, a functional replica that could be manufactured through either 3D printing or CNC cutting.
The Command Control
At Tako we are big on upcycling, especially existing furniture, so with this it started as an existing dresser. I used 2x4s to build a backing frame to hang a shelf, boxed in to support 4 CDJ2000NXS2 wide. The top of the dresser was then build up with a frame of 1x6s and boxed it in to the dimensions of the rest of the gear. 2x Audio Technica Turnables and a djm 900nxs2 to hook it all together. The lower area is mounted with a power strip to break out power for all the gear. The top cover was cut on the CNC to match the front face of the gear. The top cover is fitted with a surface mount power strip with USB and USB C, and then on the corner there is a surface mount wireless qi charger for phones. Once assembled and cleaned up, the wood was stained or painted. Everything was given a clear coat and the top cover was sanded to a high grit then followed with a 3 stage polish to reach a piano like shine.
Indestructible Enscriptions
This project was for a customer that wanted to affix a sign to the front of their family cabin. However, this sign is built to last through many generations with customer supplied design being cut from 1/2in Plate Steel.
Blastoff
This was a commissioned project to design and print a streaming stand for a Novation Launchpad Controller. Printed in PETG
Big Packages Small Drivers
Produced from a design created by Bill Fitzmoritz using 2x Eminence LAB 12″ drivers. This project was cut on a 3d printed CNC design from V1 Engineering.
These we the last project for the 3d printed cnc before being sold. This design being the widely available C2E Silver Paraflex, featuring a B&C 21″ Neodymium magnet driver. Each cabinet was upfitted with handles and given a Rhino Liner brand coating for durabitlity.
Loudest thing on a pole
This personal build was to construct 6 PM90 speakers, a design that prides its self in high quality and high output. This project was cut on a Maslow CNC (no longer in use)
