4x4 Build Ep.11 - Tube Frame, LED Lights

In this video I'm completely welding the tubular frame of the UTV and adding some of the needed reinforcing diagonals. LED light mounts are made and starting to fabricate the floor / footwell while waiting for parts that still haven't arrived.
This is part of a series of a four wheel drive utility vehicle build to lessen the work load on my trusty 2002 Honda Foreman Rubicon TRX500FA. This partially answers the question "Why?" but for those who want to ask "why don't you just buy a side-by-side instead of building one?" I just want to say - I'm not made of money. Side-by-sides are ridiculously expensive, even the car I drive around daily is worth less (not worthless though!), hell, it is even worth less than my 2002 Honda ATV.
"How much HP will it have?" - the 1.4 litre FWD petrol engine I'm planning on using has 55 kw and this will not change, but the torque will be tripled via the BMW differentials I'm using to transfer power to front and rear axles.
"It will be too heavy!" - this project just like the firewood processor project does not have to float. And a heavier vehicle will handle better anyway when hauling heavy loads.
Stay tuned for future episodes! Thanks for watching!
My other videos: / donndiy
#donndiy #homemade #4x4
Soundtrack:
Pomade - Silent Partner (KZbin Audio Library)
Welding equipment borrowed from Spetselektroodi AS, Estonia:
Fronius TransSteel 2700 welder
Optrel Crystal 2.0 Welding Helmet
Hypertherm Powermax 45 XP plasma cutter

[@DonnDIY]

More fabrication videos on kzbin.infovideos

[@OzBull]

Drive doesn't go to both wheels unless spooled or lsd

[@OzBull]

its an open wheel diff

[@OzBull]

Hmm the torque will want to roll the motor out of the left side so the weight will change

[@dozer1642]

@@OzBull relax bud. It’s gonna be ok. What did you build today?

[@OzBull]

@@dozer1642 many projects and raced cars as a hobby

[@MarionMakarewicz]

I'd say you are one of the smartest KZbinrs around. Logical, methodical, organized. Often smarts are equated with brilliance/creativity. That you have, but you harness it better than most people. Just am amazed at your productivity.

[@markjohnson9938]

Exactly my thought each and every week!!

[@MakinEndsMeet69]

Hi Don DIY, wow explaining stuff to the mainstream why you did this and why you did that? It's simple you did it because it could be done but only be done the right way by you. You use the stuff you used because simple you had it. Don DIY I know you're doing this you know to make a great video you usually do but you will never have to explain craziness like that to me. I know you build these things because they make your life easier you use practically every piece of equipment that you build for something to make your life easier, plus it gives us a great show to watch in the meantime. I thank you so much for bringing me along that's for sure I have learned so many different things by watching your videos that I am actually doing some of these things now to make my life easier. Anyway Don DIY you just keep on going strong man don't worry about anything that's for sure. Stay safe stay well and as always God bless.

[@davevolkman9185]

Donn, I’ve gotta say you are an absolute BEAST with the angle grinders! I know, I know, “practice makes perfect”; but you sir, are the master!!

[@joebuckley9940]

Frankly I wouldn't answer anyone's questions, instead I'd ask them to show you what they are building. Probably nothing. You are doing a great job. I'm learning a lot and along the way I'm completely entertained and he'll isn't that why we're here?

[@Mikefestiva]

Nice recap of the build in the beginning Donn 👍 Haha I see you must get a lot of comments also from people telling you how you should built your own project 😂 I get the same thing too, I probably had over 50 comments of people telling me I should have used a Diesel engine in my articulating dump truck, And over a hundred comment telling me the 12hp engine I used is too small even though it moves 2000lbs of gravel fine. Haha well I see it’s just the nature of KZbin I guess. Thanks for the new video 👍

[@MrCevron]

Ahora que el inconmensurable y genial Mike Festiva ha dicho que el resumen es bueno, Donn puede dormir tranquilo 😆

[@Gozz101]

True, very true. I am following your dump truck build, and love the drumming intermission!!!

[@andrewsneddon3873]

The phenomenon you experienced is called the dunning kruger effect.

[@Mikefestiva]

@@andrewsneddon3873 Haha I just had to look it up, I had never heard of it before. I think you hit it spot on! The alarming thing is the number of people on KZbin that seem to have Dunning Kruger. 😂 Thanks for posting your comment 👍

[@Mikefestiva]

@@Gozz101 Right on! Thanks for checking out my videos 👍 I really appreciate it.

[@DanKoning777]

Even if the weight distribution was [as he said], "all messed up," just a small bit of ballast would easily remedy the issue. Like you stated in a previous video, this isn't going to be used to challenge a current "land/speed record" it's simply a tractor; well better yet it's a really nice "DIY" tractor. 👍 💯 👍 Btw, thanks for including the "imperial units of measurement" for those of us who were raised on it. It helps a lot with perspective.

[@DuncanAitken]

Awesome work! Love the attention to detail - and the fact you're not afraid to make, and show, your mistakes. Would still love to see a build like this in electric, it'd easily be a 2-seater! Very inspiring.

[@DanKoning777]

If you want to see "E" everything" [almost], including a build(s) like this here's a YT channel from Vietnam: *"Creative Channel"* [6.01m subs]. Personally I'm done with todays "E" everything; imo Donn's builds are preferable. I believe people will wish they still had their "gas powered" everything as grid failures increase in the future like those in America on both coasts due to $, neglect, or sadly, b/c they're prime targets in a conflict [i.e. Ukraine]. In the U.S., gas stations are required by law to have backup generators, that's when gas powered anything will be invaluable. As I said, just my opinion.

[@joemcdonald9090]

Congrats on the way you explained your design . Long story short you are building it how you want . And that’s the way it should be !

[@dylantrinder1571]

Great seeing this project moving forward. Love your welding skills. Thanks for answering the questions at the start of the video too Donn. 👍🏻👍🏻

[@olddawgdreaming5715]

Thanks for sharing with us Donn, you’re moving right along on your project. Looks great !! Fred 👍👍👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@vlstyles]

I'm freaking out, man! I haven't watched this series since you widened the rims, & I watched all of your amphibious vehicle build, but you've already talked more in this episode than you have in any of those I mentioned combined! I'm just hoping we get another "Pretty Good" (as only you can say it) soon!!!

[@rcstilgar]

Constantly impressed by your thinking of functionality shaping design. Keep up the good work.

[@user-rm9us7xs3u]

Здорово у тебя получается все делать. Уважаю за прекрасные руки!

[@DonnDIY]

Большое спасибо!

[@Mnashvmaksim]

Советский динамометр! Лайк за него, да и в целом за твои работы!

[@1stzjtruck706]

Enjoy watching your channel and builds. As for all of those people out there telling you how to do what you are doing please keep your opinion to yourself until he is done with the project.

[@billthomas274]

I really enjoying watching your builds. This one seems to be moving quickly... Great job...

[@DonnDIY]

Cheers man. There are people who would disagree on the progress made though. 😆

[@amilcarmoncada1801]

Como ya es su costumbre otro muy buen capitulo de la fabricacion de este 4x4 Off-Road UTV, hoy es soldando completo el marco tubular del UTV y agregando refuerzo necesarios. co,locacion de los soportes de luz LED y fabricacion del piso todo muy bien realizado, mis rezspetos y saludos desde Venezuela amigo hasta el proximo capitulo.

[@Crewsy]

It really shaping up Donn. Thankfully I’m not a cat since you have my curiosity maxed out about how you’re going to equip your UTV. Especially what your planning for the back.

[@user-zy8of3pm2x]

Dynamometer originally from the USSR)) I enjoy watching your videos. I have always respected people who know how to work with their hands. You're doing fine!

[@DktheWelder]

I love the boxy look of it ! And the front wheel drive driving the diffs is something I have been thinking of doing. Looking forward to seeing it going

[@TripleXclown]

It's awesome what you reuse with your builds! Very awesome!

[@robertmanley7556]

Wow !! Its looking GREAT !! And to think before you started it was steel tubing and car parts !! VERY VERY NICE work !! Love your channel !! And the time and effort put into all you do makes for a GREAT video and a OUTSTANDING project !!👍👍👍🛠

[@Redneckmfg]

Loving the Imperial Measurements at the bottom .. Thank you for that !!! This baby is going to be a Beast ...

[@johngodfrey1300]

Still one of the best DYI channels Keep it up.

[@jakobv8]

As always, a pure joy to watch you work in your well lit workshop. Your videos are very relaxing and satisfying to watch. Keep up the good work!

[@DonnDIY]

Thanks for the feedback and motivation. I appreciate it!

[@glassblastcollision]

I watch both you and Mike Festiva on here ,You guys inspire some summitry to my builds more so. Thanks ,keep up the passion guys .Good stuff!!

[@michaelgeale9345]

Thankyou so much for adding the time to this project by filming, editing and uploading it.. awesome job, love the problem solving and skill you show!

[@DonnDIY]

Cheers man!

[@Cameron_D]

Nothing wrong with using what have or born with :)

[@blackbuttecruizr]

Awesome work Donn... Way to be creative with what you have.

[@Crewsy]

For anyone wondering about the engine position. Most front wheel drive vehicles have the transmission on the left side of the vehicle which means the engine needs to be positioned like Donn has it to turn the (BMW) axles the right way to go forward. There are vehicles with the transmission on the right side and they will be able to be mounted on the right side allowing for the driver to be in a more common left hand drive position.

[@klausklautgern4870]

One option would have been, to flip the BMW diffs upside down. Then it would have been possible to mount the engine in the right side. But i can't See where that matters in an offroad vehicle.

[@CSWmanofsteel]

Thumbs up on the PTO fabrication I never saw it done that way? But it’s probably something I’ll use in the future 🤙🏼. Also thank you for replying to your location where these builds are being made 👍🏼 awesome build Donn!

[@wishprey]

ДИНАМОМЕТР - From Russia with love 😀

[@jamescunliffe9872]

I think it has a great utilitarian design and I especially like it's boxy shape and short overhangs :)

[@dozer1642]

Volvo- “We are boxy, but good”

[@manuelstarr3602]

Cheers, the LambaDonny is coming on great. 🏁

[@jefcornelis1645]

I'm looking forward to every update! As a small "beginner level" DIY person compared to your level, a lot of respect! On first sight it looks like youre figuring of out as you go, but following the more technical part clearly shows youre knowledge and master craftsmanship. I would put the battery higher than floorlevel to prevent it from flooding when driving through mud or water though. Keep posting those nice vids. Love the fastforward welding, jumping around in all positions and angles 🤣

[@DonnDIY]

I intend to keep it from flooding over the axle. The Peugeot wheel bearing aren't very waterproof. 😆

[@koolkar55]

You have amazing skill Donny. Thank you for sharing it Mate. Billy J..... Queensland, Australia.

[@skipbolinger1370]

These videos are great very educational since I don't know much about steering systems I too like to work with square tube its easy too cut measure and weld looking forward to next episode 👍

[@george8873]

Love the boxy shape of the UTV.

[@colin8532]

Love the new intro, its badass!

[@JohnSmith-ud9ex]

This, ladies and gentlemen, is where baby Unimog`s are born.... Beautiful edit of fantastic work Donn and the "talky bits" are a real bonus addition ! Thank you matey ! = )

[@DonnDIY]

Thanks for watching!

[@JohnSmith-ud9ex]

@@DonnDIY The pleasure is all ours Donn ! Many of us realise that the "Baby Mog" is not being built by someone that did not take weight distribution into account ; )

[@bradanderson1627]

It's gunna be wicked cool Donn . Go damm near straight up .😁👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@finnnilssen8647]

Highlight of the week!

[@lifebankstore8625]

great fabrication work

[@humancattoy7767]

Awesome little buggy. That's gonna get a lot of use. I think it's going to be your go-to vehicle.

[@DonnDIY]

I'm hoping so!

[@LhajBELAAIDWorkshop]

Great job bro. I like it. Best wishes 👌👍🙏

[@Evilslayer73]

i cant wait to see this utv ripping trough some dirt!!:) nice job man !

[@stevenpleasant5834]

Hi and yes square tub is very ezey to work with very nice build.

[@mimiporsche]

Hai una mente brillante! !! Prossimo progetto un piccolo aereo!!👍👍👍👍👍

[@trialnterror]

Maybe Cummins could sponsor you a small engine , that way you could show up every Utv manufacturer out there that you can make a utv that lasts longer then 6000 miles!

[@thompsoncrusher7840]

Another great video.

[@peterolsen132]

You can get Very a long Way just using what you have 💪🏻💪🏻

[@DonnDIY]

That's the idea behind all my builds - using what I have. 😉

[@aserta]

I personally think it's a great little one seater. Exactly what a scrap parts UTV should be. Simple, robust, no muss, no fuss. Am very curious to see how strong it is (the engine) and if you feel like you'll need to increase torque or stuff like that (probably not, but who knows until you drive it and use it, right?). Suggestion: since it's an UTV, make the top of the engine cover (assuming you're enclosing the cab) a tray, so you can put stuff there, like a box or something that you need to transport on the quick impromptu.

[@rufftime1]

Seems to be a nice build

[@user-rl5nl7hv8l]

Скоро кататься будет. Ждём. Удачи. Здоровья.😉👍

[@Stefracer3]

great man.. keep like that... love to see your work... :)

[@robertozalazar7404]

Genio exelente trabajo haces...

[@1beastlydudefixbreakrepeat]

Im 2 meters and 135kg be proud the wind cant knock you over!

[@prophaniti1]

Hey dude great build but I'd recommend wearing a face shield along with the glasses when grinding, just to be safe,it's now standard practice in my industry (mining) when grinding metal work due glasses on their own not being enough protection. Kepp up the awesome work!

[@mrmulken356]

Gr8 work Donny, keep it up!

[@DonnDIY]

Cheers man!

[@gafrers]

02:22 Best Reason Ever Great work as usual

[@chahidabdelmjid5653]

Good and great job

[@matthewanderson7766]

Great job

[@Julie0374]

You’re doing an amazing job. As usual. Don’t worry about the naysayers.

[@seantap1415]

Loving the build so far. You might want to consider making the frame so you can have room to up the tire size. Cheers.

[@geo2cv868]

Well, with all the reinforcements you added, this vehicle is a real tank!

[@DonnDIY]

Yes.

[@stacyreid5077]

Great job on the fabrication so far... I can say even it maybe on the heavy side you won’t hafto worry about bending the frame or the cage Lol keep it up with the build 👍🏻👍🏻

[@user-rl8nh7vf2l]

Смотрю постоянно твои видео, молодец 💪

[@aserta]

Probably too late now, but, there's way to make the steering "conventional" in the geometry, but not have to go over the diff. I've only seen this for some fork lifts that had odd configurations, which is what makes me think it should work for you, since, slow speed, and it's the humble hydraulic cylinders. Essentially, you remove the steering rack, the drive shaft from the steering wheel and you replace it all with one sending unit and two cylinders either side. Kinda like splitting the steering rack in two. It won't be perfect, but i think it's a compromise worth exploring with. You could test it out using a cylinder mock-up (two sliding tubes).

[@paulmartin3340]

Good stuff, I like the progress on this build. Looking pretty gooood! I'm a little jealous of the fact that you and I weigh the same (100kg) but your a slim 100 whilst I'm a fat 100!!! Go figure! Lol. Cheers yet again from Sydney Australia 🇦🇺🐨🦘🦘🐨🇦🇺🍺🍺

[@DonnDIY]

Haha! I'm 192 cm tall, the fat is still hiding (around the waist). 10 more kg's and it is starting to show on my face for sure. 😄

[@paulmartin3340]

@@DonnDIY lol Well that explains it then. I'm only 178cm tall ! Cheers big guy 👍🍺👍

[@bulletgt3]

i just love your builds! Keep it up! :D

[@DonnDIY]

Cheers man!

[@robertkeime4907]

Great video

[@tiagomoura9979]

Curto muito seu canal, forte abraço! MG Brasil.

[@LesNewell]

You can make Ackermann work for a front rack. In your diagram at 9:17 project the steering arms forward along the lines instead of back. The only problem is that your track rod ends may end up very close to the wheels. Another option is to keep rear arms but move them up so they are above the nose of the diff. On my build the original track rod ends were under the arms. I relocated them above the arms which gave me just enough clearance with the diff tilted down a little and the rack pretty much touching it.

[@jamescunliffe9872]

If you apply the brakes lightly while still on the throttle it will equally direct power to each wheel and act as a difflock:)

[@mickaellegendre2547]

Superbe travail 👏👏👏👍👍

[@stevenpleasant5834]

Hi I like it I think it is great and you are doing very well it looks real good and cool keep on going keep well.I would love to have one like it I am trying to build some thing myself now.

[@FatHulkRideEbike]

Cool Video!

[@user-yj1vb1lk2z]

Grand project!!!

[@DonnDIY]

Спасибо!

[@ISOSAILING]

looks cool!!

[@hitmn2011]

Very nice 👌👌 very good 👍👍

[@alc7505]

Hi Donn, another sweet project! Please do some videos with the Amphibious tracked vehicle in use, PRETTY PLEASE!!!!!!

[@Hackbridge1963]

Just about to go to bed. Is that a new DonnDIY video? Okay bed can wait 😂😂

[@zasheeboo8139]

Динамометр наш, советский. Неисповедимы пути господни.

[@medben2088]

Good job

[@DonnDIY]

Cheers man!

[@sidschwan8031]

donn looks great bro hope you put a nice body on it

[@jubiletabustamanteserrano2446]

buen trabajo campeon

[@daver681]

Thank you for putting the SAE measurements on the screen while you are saying the metric.

[@123suzukisamurai]

So many experts out there. Sigh!

[@user-kt2hb8xr3p]

عمل رائع شكرا لك اخي

[@Rubbernecker]

Love it!!!!

[@randomstranger9674]

You can always add a rumble seat if you decide you need to carry a passenger.

[@robertprince5454]

or just dump them in the back.....

[@nazrulnaz3857]

Every week i wait for a new video, i can't wait to see th ending..

[@DonnDIY]

It's the journey, not the destination. 😉

[@lewisbradford3305]

Will it be orange?😊

[@karlfoley5221]

Please do another firewood cutting video with your quad

[@ulysse4296]

great job, respect my friend ++++++++++

[@CSWmanofsteel]

Hey Donn thanks for the explanation of why you’re doing what you’re doing with this UTV. In America people have forgotten how to use hand tools to fabricate stuff and depend on CNC Machines and programs into computers to fabricate their steel components. Watching your fabrication of this project using what people would call OLD SKOOL methods is actually what lacking in the world of fabrication and welding. Thanks again for sharing your videos 🤙🏼. Also where are you located?

[@DonnDIY]

I'm from Estonia, Europe.

[@CSWmanofsteel]

@@DonnDIY I’m located in Hawaii,

[@EddyLancerHands]

Once he releases the plans for this, there should be a spec race/rally series for this thing. Everyone can go out and get wrecked Peugeot Partners, there can be separate classes for diesel and gas, it'd be a riot to watch

[@DonnDIY]

👍💪😆

[@PutJizniMetallista]

Спасибо 👍

[@richardshirk9439]

awesome!