L1 - The birth of a Beast! A new vehicle project at BuilderCreator

[@jcastaneda8977]

Cool van! I think you should use electric prop underneath, provide solar power to for prop. I really love your sport car!! That car is so beautiful and love your ideas on this build!! Thank you for sharing!!

[@Urusay]

This vehicle will need a big solar panel array on the roof, to help charge the batteries for everyday living appliances without having to burn through all the fuel in the tank. Maybe integrated "into the roof" with a sliding/folding cover to protect it when not needed or while driving. Looking forward to the build in any case !

[@BuilderCreator]

It will have a huge amount of real-estate for solar, as the sides will fold up/out for an expanding floor plan.

[@bewernia]

What about going EV? If this is an apocalypse vehicle I rather doubt fossil fuels will be handy.

[@nickopedia5669]

@@bewernia diesel is easy enough to distill from old plastics, but the price of diesel would have to be really high to make it worth it. Like 8-10 dollars a gallon at LEAST until some people started making fuel from their recyclables. (it's probably 2 to 3 times as much effort as processing old cooking oil, and you get less of it per batch for a similar sized equipment set-up)

[@whatyoudo9773]

the numbering system is brilliant! L1 etc. That lets us catalog what we need to see for our own projects, bravo!

[@BuilderCreator]

As long as I don't start another project that starts with an L or A. Ha!

[@whatyoudo9773]

@@BuilderCreator funny, correct but how many giant projects like this can a guy do?

[@mayhemmanufacturing434]

Build it using Coosa board. It is an frp, used to reinforce boat hulls. It is very light, and very strong once glassed over. It is easy to shape, and doesn't absorb water. You can nail it together with a brad nailer, and/ or quickly bond pieces together with body filler. Wear ppe when cutting/ shaping though, cause it gets itchy, and isn't fun to breath. It isn't the cheapest stuff in the world, but it can save you a lot of time.

[@BuilderCreator]

I'll look into it. Thanks.

[@Paul_D_Lashley]

Use Hummer H1 chassis. Military surplus they are cheap and fairly modular already. Probably need a swing out hoist to help with the spare tire, similar to the ones used on larger military trucks.

[@mctowelie1493]

Any thought of using a waterjet propulsion w/ a PTO of sorts? Like a big jet-ski, you'd save a lot of space wouldn't have to purchase a separate motor.

[@BuilderCreator]

Looking for an expert in that field!

[@billkaroly]

@@BuilderCreator talk to Doug at SV Seeker.

[@kcidsirhc1169]

Yes. Jet or twin jet. Much cooler.

[@bewernia]

Not only all that, but I'd be concerned over storing the outboard motor upside down. I was thinking of a waterjet that could drop down when in use rather than leaving it exposed. Any idea where the COG is yet? It looks kind of narrow and short.

[@MrDownRater]

Because of the big mass and size of the vehicle it's not a good idea. Water-jets has low torque and not as reliable and easy to service as traditional (propeller) boat engines. Also propelleres are more efficient under 40km/h~20knot.

[@daveffs1935]

If you use air suspension you should be able to draw the wheels up into the hull to reduce drag massively. Also couldn't you use a PTO to drive a prop rather than the outboard, save a ton of room?

[@BuilderCreator]

Not sure of rpm ranges and prop gearing. I've also talked this over with another engineer and find a lot of benefits of running amphibious without the truck engine in operation.

[@NateStylez]

Instead of air, look in to how hydraulic suspension with spring boxes work. Essentially the hydraulic hoses going to each hydraulic cylinder at each corner will have a T fitting and a hose going to another cylinder that pushes against a coil spring. When you hit a bump the cylinder on the wheel will compress causing the fluid to push into the other cylinder against the spring creating suspension! You can change spring rates to dial in the best ride possible and it won't change no matter what ride height unlike air. It will ride excellent and have way more travel. Here's an example of hydraulics with a spring box: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rXuTo5qCiNxsfbs

[@mus_xr4653]

Wider wheel base would be nice.

[@bradmaas6875]

Electric outboard or water jet system and solar panels. Adjustable suspension, increase for rough roads, lower for normal road use, lower still for water. 3 or 4 flotation pods that move out and down to add stability Duramax engine, Allison transmission.

[@BuilderCreator]

Would you for me to calculate the kit price for that order? Sounds like a great combo.

[@bradmaas6875]

@@BuilderCreator You were asking for ideas to incorporate into this project. Another idea, diesel electric, Wheel motors to drive the wheels 2wd/4wd switchable. Portal axels to keep the motors dry.. I think it's a great project, mind exercise and all, I might try a small version, most of the lakes in my area are too small for what you have in mind..

[@assarstromblad3280]

Looks nice. I am thinking about stability though, it looks very high and narrow, and I get why because of water resistance etc, but wouldn't it be a bit top heavy? I would suggest (if possible) A wider wheelbase and maybe to use, as other has commented already, some kind of water jet design powered by the engine so you don't need to carry another engine with you. Also one Idea I read about here int the comments that I liked was air suspension for leveling the vehicle when on uneven ground (so you dont have to sleep in a slope and roll off the bed all the time). Air suspension could also make it possible to retract the wheels to make it more efficient and faster in the water.

[@BuilderCreator]

Air suspension or a system to lock the suspension up in amphibious mode for sure. The drive system I'm still debating so many options.

[@assarstromblad3280]

@@BuilderCreator Interesting, no doubt it will be good.

[@TychoBrahe21]

As a life long sci-fi fan, this build is going to be very cool. Very excited. So glad I found this channel.

[@BuilderCreator]

Damnation alley baby!!

[@MCFishNuggets]

Just when I start getting into over landing, this project begins!

[@BuilderCreator]

What timing!

[@danielaeschlimann5840]

The idea is great, but because it can do almost everything, for what will it be optimized? I think it will maybe be compromized on to many things. A useful feature to add would be a self leveling system for uneaven places to camp.

[@BuilderCreator]

My key focus, is the fold out expanding living area. Notice the slide out floor supports (flotation tanks) that will have levelers built in.

[@mrrustygray]

ARK II LOL that just shook cobwebs loose from my Saturday morning memories.

[@billkaroly]

Is there a way to eliminate the outboard motor? Have you seen a Sherp? Where is the engine? Still in the front? This is a massively cool idea

[@myopinion69420]

seems like it would take up a lot of valuable real estate. A quick google shows the 2020 silverado can have a factory PTO, so that may be an option.

[@BuilderCreator]

I think the Sherp is only powered by the wheel movement and flotation by the tires. Then again I've only seen videos of it in action but not the mechanics of it

[@guillo88]

@@BuilderCreator you can see some of it internals and how it works in a video from Rich Rebuilds, the video is call: I got a Sherp. The GREATEST off-road vehicle on the planet!

[@divyanshsrivastava7312]

@@BuilderCreator correct, it is only powered by its low-pressure big wheels for flotation and movement.

[@billkaroly]

@@BuilderCreator maybe you could disengage the rear axle and engage a propeller with folding blades.

[@bobdavis3389]

I would not have the patience to build a car like that , I really admire you .

[@kirkpowell6161]

Can't wait... Thanks for sharing your genius-ness!

[@myopinion69420]

somewhere to mount solar panels would be handy.keep any sort of house battery system charged. could also be handy for keeping the truck batteries topped up when not being used (say, the winter months)

[@BuilderCreator]

Definitely going to be solar intensive. Looking at electric drive for water travel as well.

[@MrClarkisgod]

As a former USMC Amphibious Assault Vehicle mechanic, I 100% approve of this idea.

[@BuilderCreator]

Prototype test driver?

[@DavidGuyton]

Very cool idea. I have always loved the COE design. I have wanted to get an old LTV and convert it to some kind of camper but it's a little more expensive than I would prefer it to be haha.

[@BuilderCreator]

You need to convert an armored vehicle. Armor templates command camper. Ha!

[@isrcinimatic587]

@@BuilderCreator is there any chance you can make a short video explaining how to mold fiberglass? Btw, love you vids, cheers

[@williamhutchins479]

@@isrcinimatic587 Short and good don't mix well. Take time and the results will be phenomenal.

[@owenbradburyaranda194]

Love it! Although I'd love to see it with some bigger tires/wider stance. Perhaps it could have larger wheel arches to accommodate such a thing?

[@assarstromblad3280]

Yeah, a bit wider wheelbase would look better and probably give it better stability on terrain and in corners on normal roads. I am afraid it will be quite top heavy otherwise, even with the engine under the floor.

[@JarvieDigital]

I'm guessing bigger tires than 40" are a possibility but the price goes way way up and the MPG goes way way down.

[@BuilderCreator]

Maybe make it shorter and only sell it to folks under 5 foot tall? Ha!

[@dave5833]

What ever this is it will be spectacular for sure.

[@ironmanif]

That video was awesome! Love the concept!

[@EldiwynPG]

i love how the side pops out. maybe on the other side, make another pop out that is like a canvas/awning so you can sit outside if its raining around a fire. I would def recommend doing a lot in carbon to keep weight down. would also love to see a step by step carbon video!!!!

[@BuilderCreator]

Pop- outs on both sides. They will be ridged insulated panels, but it would be easy to just not fold out a panel and let down insect netting in its place for open air living.

[@patrickdavey9692]

jet ski motor with the rite nozzle could give you 360* thrust vectoring

[@BuilderCreator]

Looking into jet drive systems. Hoping to find an expert on the field?

[@jylp4u]

@@BuilderCreator I had one experience with a jet drive... Was on a speed boat and was powered by a 70's Ford big block engine that was equipped with a nitrous kit. I never got the chance to put it in water as this was around the collapse of our business and my experience with it was to get it running and working correctly so that it could be sold. One of the first things I learned about the jet was never to run the pump outside of water. There is a bearing that will be destroyed if you do. So you'll need to have a way to disengage it. This one was connected with something like a really short drive shaft. To disengage it I had to disconnect that shaft. Much like you would if you were towing a RWD car on a car dolly or using a stinger.

[@sdglavin]

Leviathan kit is a great idea! Here are my suggestions for adding to the design: AC/Heat pump for climate control (keep weight/location as low as possible, but always dry) Solar cells feeding into high-drain lithium battery packs DC output to 12-volt accessory outlets, AC output via 12 VDC to 115 VAC inverter Electric traction motors on front to supplement ICE power (front wheels, making it 4WD) Bilge pumps with intakes at lowest points on inside walls of water-facing sectioned hulls Hydraulic jacking feet with skid design, one at each corner- allows leveling and getting un-stuck from muddy or soft terrain (allows forward/rear sliding motion, maybe w/small removable wheels) Snorkel air intake for engine (way above waterline) Stainless high-stack exhaust (way above waterline) Camper-style table-couch that coverts to queen bed

[@camperlab6546]

Suggestion: inboard jet-drive propulsion with several servo-controlled jets. You don't want to rely on forward motion or rudder-like systems for steering.

[@BuilderCreator]

Vectoring thrust would be great for a lumbering hulk. Ha!

[@petergilbert7106]

This is a properly genius idea. To compete with the big boys in super/hypercar development is probably unrealistic, however this new project is really tapping into the offgrid/vanlife movement. I look forward to seeing where you go with this.

[@BuilderCreator]

Exactly! Glad you see the vision.

[@canerkaptanoglu640]

I wonder whether -today is the day- or not :D

[@tentoes_vlogs824]

This made me laugh so hard

[@remingtonjarvie5183]

No, today is definitely the day. Today is always the day.

[@canerkaptanoglu640]

@@remingtonjarvie5183 great fan of yours and your work by the way :D

[@pigeondeceased2591]

Looks great, Oculus Gravity Sketch could be a VR format for us all to have a virtual walk round of your project

[@af0ulwind115]

thoughts... 1. A wider base. You may want the widest posable wheel base for stability. 2. have water inlet on the underside of the vehicle instead of an outboard, use the drive train to the rear wheels to turn a geared up high volume pump for propulsion in water. 3. Side pontoons above the vehicle that reposition when in water for greater stability.. unless you want to run a gyroscopic mass to prevent tipping.

[@BuilderCreator]

Extending floatation tanks under the fold outs and for stability are in the concept model. Jet drive options being looked at.

[@axiom_creative]

2 things. First, it will need a wider track for stability. Consider using MRAP axels and wheels. Second, you will need to have bumpers that are no higher then 22 inches of you want it road legal in all states. Also consider adding a couple of winches front and rear. Regardless of what sort of propulsion you use for the water, you will need a lot of area under the cabin area for floatation foam. If you can, use spray in place polyurethane closed cell foam instead of the pour in place. I've tried them both and the spray foam eliminated voids and forced it into the nooks and crannies better. It's what we used on the OSP (Oregon State Police) jet boat hulls and their big barge pontoons. I have a design of a similar vehicle but it's a modular bed/bay design. I'll add a sketch later. PS: the Arete looks a lot like my stiletto hypercar concept I designed about 9 years ago. Mine was going to use a carbon kevlar/titanium honeycomb laminate for the front/rear firewalls and floor structure with a titanium lattice roof structure as a built in roll cage.

[@Tutamunga]

This is brilliant! I would say serviceability / maintenance should be a really key area. The Sherp vehicle has some wonderful simple technology in places that save time, money and mitigate chances of you getting stuck for parts or in to trouble when out on an adventure -there is a good video where “Rich Rebuilds” is shown around one. Wishing you all the best with this, looking forward to following the process (great start by the way, enjoyed this)

[@BuilderCreator]

Everyone loves the Sherp! I'll have to go catch RRs episode.

[@oseh438]

I’m 16 and I’ve been designing a car for a while now, I’m going to make a model soon and I hope to actually bring my car into production one day.

[@diegomontano1881]

Hi, I'm 17, I'm building an electric motorcycle, I am also interested in cars, hope we can talk

[@akbarkhan-nq3xl]

@@diegomontano1881 I'm 27 from India and I'm also working on electric motorcycle

[@ARTISTVAIBHAVYADAV]

I love to draw cars and bikes

[@94JAVS]

It looks cool but should consider putting Sherp ATV type of wheels on that thing. Since it will be a big vehicle, I think at least bigger wheels would make it more stable, proportionate, and all-terrain capable. Can't wait to see new updates!!

[@briankreitner1873]

try to steer away from using an outboard. They are heavy and the pivoting design is going to take up lots of space. Plus in overlanding, being able to work on your rig is crucial so make sure the design has easy access points for maintenance.

[@neech8568]

Making it with a camper interior would be cool.

[@zno--]

Looks cool, but why the outboard motor? Wouldn't it be possible to use the car engine?

[@willecutlip]

I had the same immediate reaction. A small, compound diesel in a sealed rear compartment would eliminate the complexities associated with opening the rear hatch and swinging out the outboard motor - not to mention the opening for water to come back into the vehicle when the motor is running.

[@BuilderCreator]

Just an idea that UnityFAN got to play with. Still looking at drive options. Electric jet drive?

[@Stoneface_Garage]

I'd suggest a modular approach for maximum flexibility and utility. For example, basic model with a cab module and flatbed back for hauling (like building materials to the island, or an ice fishing house...); add a camper module like the old truck back ones, so you could set it in your camp base and take the rig out for fun or work. The Amphib feature could possibly be modularized as well for those that may not want/need it.

[@BuilderCreator]

Exactly! Looking at making the camper section "off-loadable" a-la camper style.

[@bryanmorris5086]

I wondered if it was an off road concept but figured it was a dash piece. Looking forward to the reveal!

[@glennbeck5138]

One idea ... provide enough room in the chassis to accommodate flotation tires for mid bogs and such. Another. Replace the outboard with multiple jet ski type pumps. Perhaps gimballed.

[@BuilderCreator]

Looking into jet drive.

[@charalamposamprikidis7478]

Nice job my friend, greetings from Greece

[@willecutlip]

Smart decision! Sort it out when completed and then sell it at auction (Barrett-Jackson or Mecum) to fund future efforts!!

[@truewitness]

Forget production. Its a headache you don’t need. Keep making videos of cool projects and that will get you a large following, that will get you good money and sponsors for future projects and you can keep it fun and on your own time. I would make it bigger, it looks a bit too small. Why not build it from a unimog instead? Maybe you can fit large enough tires with threads that can work in water also like the Sherp. That would be easier that having a outboard at the back which sounds kinda crazy. Good luck looking forward too seeing what you come up with 😊

[@meteormotorcycle4442]

Awesome! Can’t wait for the videos! Thanks you for the great info drops! I am finishing up my two wheeled beast and then looking for a three wheeler project! Your work is really inspiring!

[@BuilderCreator]

2025 four wheels? Thanks for following the project (s)

[@obkf-too]

I love it, one thing that I would change is introducing more windows (glass space), you can create a system to cover them automatically if you need to.

[@BuilderCreator]

Duly noted!

[@obkf-too]

@@BuilderCreator Really enjoying your content, I have learned a lot.

[@vilergames8244]

Creating military like vehicles since 2021 it's cool

[@joelweaver6678]

Here’s my take. lose the the outboard, definitely use jet drive from a pto on engine. Next try to use suspension assembly’s from military hummers. They are already engineered for it and surplus parts are plentiful. Carry on!

[@BuilderCreator]

Definitely a jet drive, solves some problems. We shall see, lots of options to explore.

[@Rob_in]

Wow, where do you find the time!? Having lived full time in a van for 2+ years know space is at a premium. That outboard motor looks to take a big chunk of it so is there no way you could run shaft or hydraulic PTO from the main engine to save that space? Don't forget outside (or garage?) storage for stuff like a dirt or mountain bike, or roof access for surf board, kayak, etc. Good luck!

[@BuilderCreator]

Yeah, that outboard was a quick way of showing the "idea" of amphibious system. In sure the final solution will be quite different. Storage always key in van life.

[@VWLivin]

This will be a very cool build. I have always liked the Fisker Karma's built-in solar-powered roof. I think that the original design was only meant to power small, onboard misc electrical components but on something larger, like your build, it would make sense to potentially look into this as a real option for a compact power source. Maybe even a retractable wind turbine?

[@BuilderCreator]

Lots of real-estate for solar as the sides will fold out/up on expanding the cabin.

[@yiannishayabusaofficial]

I LOVE YOUR PROJECT IS AMAZING IS FANTASTIC IS MAGIC ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! AWESOME

[@zacharyfp4288]

An oversized fuel tank, bead locks, and inflation system to adjust tire pressure from inside would be nice. Also might want to incorporate a winch.

[@Tryagain205]

Use a generator to power an electric outboard motor for propulsion in the water. You’ll probably want a generator anyways and an electric motor can be stored in any configuration. You won’t get any higher than ten knots unless you plan on over a thousand horsepower anyways. Use a high torque electric motor with a large propeller in order to get solid thrust. You will also have maneuverability issues in the water so be sure to add a bow thruster to turn that thing. I’ve worked on mega yachts for many years and have designed electrical systems for them. Electric propulsion is the way to go in this case. I know I’m very late into the game but just my two cents. Good luck with your build! Looking forward to your build

[@BuilderCreator]

We are on the same page. There will be a flotation platform attached to the back that will lower down parallel with the frame for water travel. This platform will add additional flotation, and contain the propulsion system (motors). All we need is 4-5 knots. ;)

[@shaneblacklord3313]

Hello Unless you want to go in circles in the water, you should either move the outboard water motor to the center of the vehicle, or instal two motors , one on each side. Also two motors would provide redundancy in the event one should die, while you are afloat.

[@DeezLBC]

Suggestion: Instead of one large outboard, use 2 jet ski engines and pumps to keep everything compact. It could be under the floorboard without even noticing it. Plus, today's jetski running gears are very powerful.

[@BuilderCreator]

Investigating such!

[@lorenswanson]

I love the idea and agree with the comments of wider stance and drive motor with pto to prop or jet. I would also like to see more glass in the design. If want to "see the world from your vehicle". It would be nice to see out. I would also consider having the top open for enjoying while on the water or enjoy the stars when parked. Let the outside in. I love your channel and your ideas. Best of luck with this and other projects.

[@BuilderCreator]

We will get you more glass!!

[@idiocratease]

Beautiful design. I would incorporate all round cameras into the structure, plus head-up or projected night vision driving capability...

[@lazygit247]

Walkable roof rack for those sun set moment lounging on top. Also seen several cool ideas for storage access that is on runners so you pull it fully out of the vehicle.

[@keithyoung7]

Air suspension for upping and downing over various terrain. Also looks good at car showers.

[@WorldRaceMVG]

Keep up the good content

[@TheSkinking]

Body says "offroad", wheel base says "don`t leave the pavement"! You could add 6 inch or wider wheel spacers to the Silverado chassis and widen the base of the body a bit.

[@BuilderCreator]

Yep, it's all in the lowering of mass. Refinements to the body/design are in progress.

[@tonymillward3755]

One thing I would certainly think about is a hatch in the roof....mainly for safety. Watching from Western Australia.

[@BuilderCreator]

Roof hatch and Roo-bars. Thanks for following the channel.

[@joshuaszeto]

I also concur with the idea of using jets instead of a secondary outboard motor. I was thinking also since overlanding won't be always on level ground, the narrow base and tall overhanging body would make it prone to tipping. why not extend the arms to have more travel but also have a way of using air springs(bags) to have the leviathan at full ride height when on land and max low when in the water. While the wheels would create more drag in the water, the wider stance of the with the extreme negative camber would create a wider base for floatation like a pontoon boat. The onboard compressor for the air bags could also serve as a pump for the tires so you could air up and air down without having to get out of the vehicle. I imagine if you could air the tires down to 1atm, the weight of the wheel will be as low as possible and still displace as much water as possible.

[@iainmacpherson6858]

Depending how much you want to change the power train I would suggest that you add water jets instead of the out board I understand why you choose that because it's close to bolt on

[@BuilderCreator]

Looking into many options for the drive in amphibious mode.

[@duncanb1981]

Yeah an ancillary drive like on a tractor connection to a impeller pump

[@andriimarkevych6684]

Thank you for your job

[@davescheer5038]

As a yacht and boat builder for over 30 yrs you need to make this vehicle wider to make it more stable in water , think of it as being one of the old army duck vehicles , you might want to use that as a platform as the government probably spent a lot of money on this design that you could use to your advantage, another would be the amphibious car , both use the vehicles motor for land and water propulsion , how fast is it going to go down the street or in the water ? , the taller the vehicle the less stable and then there's weight distribution to keep it level in the water and buoyancy , is it going to be made of fiberglass or metal ? You have to think about durability and any impact while underweigh , gas or diesel fuel ? Capacity how much will it hold person and weight , additional flotation ? This is a huge under taking , and I can't wait to see your next video ! 👍🏼😊

[@BuilderCreator]

Well, that's a lot of questions! I'll start with materials, then weight and flotation. The cab and parts of the under-tray will be aluminum (also the first flotation tank will be under the cab.) the subframe/and box will be an aluminum skeleton. Under this will be 2 flotation tanks (one each side between the wheels) these tanks will extend out 40 inches to form outriggers in amphibious mode/ floor supports in expanded camping mode. when extended as flotation there will be inflatable bladders between the float outriggers and the chassis. additional there will be flotation tanks between the chassis rails (mostly made of water and gray water storage. (do your ballast calculation before entering the water. :) Aft there will be a APU for electric and hydraulics enclosed in an independent hull. (more displacement) finally there will be a set of flotation tanks that fold against the rear of the vehicle, but that fold down forming a deck/out-drive, but that also contributes to displacement. The size and form of all these tanks, floats and bladders is still in question as we are just getting to the point were we can start collecting weight and balance info. The top shell will be made out of light weight foam filled fiberglass structures. As to the speed question; slow in the water, a bit faster on the highway. Ha!

[@champarcadesminiatures4638]

Today, February 1, 2021. The day I discovered your channel. Nice project my friend :)

[@mikeleonard8031]

Fantastic idea. Love the 3D.

[@rileydude6888]

Like the new Sherp, you could add a trailer hitch or make a specialized trailer for it. Modular. You can add body length or axles kinda like a metal caterpillar. But that would definitely be a "stretch"

[@samsongihoul3298]

Oh my, you are really hitting home with this project, I must say, I had the same thoughts about the airport truck for years and I also changed for the Prometheus model as well. I now have the styr-puch Pinzgauer 6x6 712 Ambulance and have bought it, but now that I have it, the amphibious will be hard, so I'm thinking of selling the Pinzgauer... Now the Pinzgauer and Tatra from Czech Repubilc share the same type of drivetrain which is much more superior in design than the Unimog, I find. They have a front to back differential and each totally independent wheel is linked to it, so that there are no torsion issues in the truck, plus I find it would suit an amphibious vehicle much better in my humble opinion, to cerate that V shape underneath. Personally I find the Tatra 8x8 appealing, but never the less in a 4x4 configuration my idea is that right behind the front wheels there would be a hydrofoil mounted on two hydraulic pistons that would come down from underneath and the part of the hydrofoil that go up the sides would open out. If you want I would gladly chat to you about it more on messenger, my name is Samson Gihoul, and I'm available every day from noon eastern time, I'll gladly share all my ideas more clearly than in a message form. :-) I'm really looking forward to seeing your project, and please do not be shy and do send me a messenger message. :-)

[@brunobalestra]

Very cool. A suggest a pop up roof like the VW California vans. On a side note, I think the single outboard motor, offset to one side will be problematic due to weight distribution and the engines' momentum. I suggest looking into rear differentials that have a power take-off feature, as one could fit a propeller there to use for power. Also, look into the Scamander that Peter Wheeler built, also amphibious and also interesting. Best of luck!

[@punkbloater]

Sounds awesome, I thought you said it was going to be based on a unimog which is a superior off road truck but I guess making it for a more common truck is a better choice when it comes down to sales, those trucks are not really off road capable but maybe that’s ok. Full standing height inside is important but it looks like you have that planned. Is electric power instead of petrol or diesel a possibility, it can’t be based of anything then but could use tesla or other type of electric power that is available? Should be fun to follow the progress. 👍🏻

[@alexandrel.defaria253]

Great project.

[@davidbeer]

The front of the vehicle is good for the driver/cabin crew, however frontal collission would seriously impact any modern vehicle due to completely missing crumple zones. Ie: overshoot and drive over the top of vehicle in front in the event of high speed collision.

[@EXOgreenMC]

One idea that I had, based on ignorance, is a change on how the motor boat engine is attached/used. When rotating the engine up 90 degrees, there needs to be alot of clearance, plus I am unsure how the engine would fare being rotated as such for extended periods of time. Instead, use some rails mounted at a 30-45ish degree angle, and the engine slots into place at the bottom. This also makes it easier to attach a system to electronically roll the motor into place with much less torque.

[@BuilderCreator]

The model/animation was just a representation of the idea it would be amphibious. the system in the end will be quite different. Still looking into options.

[@JohnJones-oy3md]

What do I know, but that center of gravity looks awfully high to me. I wouldn't take a lifted, hi-roof Mercedes Sprinter rock crawling. Still, love the idea. Small RV meets Amphicar meets APC. :)

[@BuilderCreator]

Focus is expanding floor plan, hopefully e can keep the camper side weight down.

[@matthewchamberlain2464]

Wood fired steam plant. A true wilderness rover. Water and wood are in greater abundance than fuel or power in the wilderness. This makes for a true post-apocalyptic vehicle. You can use the steam to drive either pistons or turbos, coupled up to whatever shaft components you want, including PTO. Also good for hot showers and cooking. Also Leviathan breathes fire Job 41:18-21.

[@BuilderCreator]

My friend Craig, whom you may have seen in a few videos, is a stream power fanatic/expert. He would love to see stream involved. Ha!

[@matthewchamberlain2464]

@@BuilderCreator Between you and him, if you make a steam powered variant, sign me up.

[@ankurchh]

Looking at the vehicle...you can place the engine in between the axles in order to make it more stable.....and put the exhaust and air intake above the roof and you can also use the same engine power to drive it in water rather than using the another motor or you can keep that mercury motor as an auxillary engine to power the vehicle in case of emergency and to provide the necessary power to generate electricity.

[@BuilderCreator]

The 1st prototype will be built on a Chevy Silverado 2500 chassis. Moving the engine will add a LOT of complexity that we don't want to mess with. Stability is a matter of keeping the mass (center of gravity) low. That is the design goal. Working on options for the drive in water.

[@kiddiescripterkiller]

It may look cool and futuristic, however, you can tell by the design, you haven't done any off roading, boating or living in a vehicle off grid. Those side windows would be broken or ripped off. That is why the big ones look like a box, you scrape a tree, easier to repair and replace a flat panel than a curved panel. The tires you have on it, as soon as you hit some snow, sand or mud you are done. That is why the amphibious vehicles the wheels are almost 1/3 the size of the vehicle so it will float and get traction. And they dont have a bed, kitchen, bathroom, closets, outboard motors, solar panels and batteries, generator, etc... on board. Not enough ground clearance. It will be way too heavy and top heavy to float, not to mention maintaining a seal around the big flip out section and the side windows. That chassis, the motor would be under water so it would have to be perfectly sealed and snorkeled. Not enough room inside after you add a bed, shower, closet, kitchen and not enough room on the top to power it with solar for days. And the frame flex taking off road would rip it self apart, unless you carbon fiber the shell which no one could build DIY or afford. And steel, it would be too heavy to float. Aluminum too expensive for the strong stuff and regular aluminium not strong enough. Hate to say it, but it will just be a glorified street machine... And I would never take it into the water... Provided it would even get across the beach or a swampy area to get there. Sorry to burst your bubble... I would go back to your airport fire truck looking design and forget about it being or looking like a boat... Then all you have to worry about is chassis flex, clearance and traction and if you slide off the trail into a tree, it won't cost an arm and a 3 legs to fix it. I have a 26' Uhaul truck stealth camper that weighs 12 tons and if we get snow, I have to chain up or on a 10 degree incline I just spin... And I have 10 - 400 watt solar panels on my truck which covers 7' x 33' area on a custom roof rack. And even with that much solar, during the winter, if I don't get sun for 3 days and don't keep the snow off the panels, I have to kick on the generator or run the engine to recharge my 11kw battery system. I have a 7' 11" x 8' living area with kitchen and a bathroom, a 7' 11 x 42" sleeping area and a 7' 11" x 14 garage with two work benches, over head gantry crane that will extend out the back door, mig and tig welders, cnc, 3d printer, plasma cutter, planer, radial arm, miter saw, precision router table, cherry picker, engine stand, little giant type folding 17' ladder, gas wheel barrow air compressor, electric air compressor, (Also have air via the enigine compressor.), gas water pump, spare generator, 2500 psi gas and electric power washers, electric motor cycle and electric 4 wheeler, huge assortment of tools, my gold mining tools, trommel and wash plant, carry 50 gallons of water, 30 gallons of hot water, 50 gallon grey and 50 gallon black water tanks, 20 gallon recirculation shower system and a 110 gallon used oil processing system. (My truck is pre emissions diesel, so I can run it on any kind of oil as long as I clean it first and preheat it before using it.) Plus it has no windows, it looks like a POS work truck. I have night vision cameras on all four sides on the roof racks (12' 6" off the ground so you need a ladder.) so I can see what is going on outside if I'm away from the truck, in the back or in bed. And I have led work lights on all four sides of the truck that will light up the night like day light and a 300db air horn that will make you go deaf, that I can control from my bed, workshop, driver's seat or remotely. I have a diesel heater and it also heats my hot water and it also heats an insulated 55 gallon tank of food grade glycol which I use for in floor heating in the living area, wall radient heat in the garage and it can keep my engine warmed up. Uses an Arduino for a controller. And I have a custom glycol solar panel on the roof rack too. Next project is a solar panel and battery heater/cooler so during the winter I don't have to climb up on top of the roof rack to get the snow off the panels and during the summer it will cool the panels so I get more power out of them.

[@wadestoelting5942]

Man, you have so many similar ideas as I do and similar interests. Thanks for making dreams happen. Supercars and Overlanders, 👌

[@BuilderCreator]

Would probably be to tall to travel with Arete in tow and a helicopter (autogyro) on top? Ha!

[@nssherlock4547]

Get rid of the offset outboard, too big, too heavy, uses different fuel ( This will be a diesel? ) use a marine PTO hydraulic prop that can rotate 360 degrees, and be steered from a small joystick You will only be going a few knots anyway. I Will be watching on !!

[@StreetMachine18]

Well said The offset outboard would also cause the truck to go in right hand circles.

[@BuilderCreator]

I will definitely look at hydraulic. Looking at electric jet drive as well. Need some experts in this stuff as some of it is new to me.

[@tobiastho9639]

3 Points come to my mind after watching the 3D model: 1) Make it hybrid and put the heavy battery and generator to the bottom. 2) Give the engine a snorkel to the roof and put solar power on top. 3) Put a window were the feet of the driver and passenger are. Or 2-3 cameras and screens.

[@BuilderCreator]

Funny, but every thing you described is part of the truck. I have had to hold off on the hybrid system for a bit, but lots of solar on top, Gods eye video system, intake and exhaust at the 7 foot mark. The drivers foot window had to get converted to off-road lights when the dash assembly started blocking most of it. Lots of good stuff to come stay tuned.

[@roninmusashi]

I loved Arc II and have often fantasized about modding up a Stryker airport truck.

[@carakyfullsender7280]

Why dont use for the Leviathan a sort of jet engine with water propulsion, it can be placed under the "living zone" and it take less place? Also it looks like narrow and roll pretty easy, can it be wider ? thanks for your video!

[@StreetMachine18]

If you throw some heavier one ton axles on a 2500 frame it would have a wider footprint and wheel offset can be adjusted

[@BuilderCreator]

The cargo containers between the wheels will double as flotation tanks and supports for the fold out living area. They will extend out about 40 inches on each side and add a great bit of stability in flotation and earthside living.

[@jayhunsberger1546]

If you wanted to sell your car, I would recommend finding a fiber glass boat shop and just have them make the bodies per order you get. Make blueprints for the chassis. You already have videos of how to build it. This could generate money for future projects with little work from you.

[@BuilderCreator]

We shall see what happens with the Arete with completion of the prototype.

[@jacksonderner8424]

I would look into both airride suspension and active tire pressure as well as using two boat motors in the back so you don't steer to one side as well as increased aquatic speed

[@galadrhim1]

My first suggestion is that you make sure you have approach and departure angles that are usable. I see that the front wheels are set pretty far back, which will probably limit approach angle by a bit. The rear doesn't seem so restricted. I guess it depends on how off road you want this to be.

[@BuilderCreator]

As soon as you go "rock crawl" off-road living comforts go out the window. Little more toward motor home comfort.

[@kz6fittycent]

I remember both the TV series AND movie! - We're old dude...

[@BuilderCreator]

Speak for yourself! Maybe I watched re-runs. Ha!

[@goodbeer100]

That will be a project and a half 👍

[@manoel91]

Very cool project! I, being a truck driver, am a little bit concerned with the center of gravity, it seems like the wheels are to close, should be far apart lengthwise, don't know how would you approach the water storage but most of these type of vehicles use it on the top, so it should be considered some compartmentalization. I don't know much, is just a feeling. Looking forward to see the development. Please don't forget about the Arete. I am crazy to see it on the track with a test driver

[@BuilderCreator]

Arete every Thursday hopefully with an eccelerated schedule. Leviathen design is still in infancy.

[@aarondcmedia9585]

OKA - an Australian designed vehicle - may provide some inspiration / ideas. They don't use portal axles but otherwise are pretty rugged / capable. Looking forward to seeing what you come up with, this sort of thing is a long-term goal of mine.

[@BuilderCreator]

Any man who has spent a bit of time off-road succumbs to the fantasy. Ha!

[@joshevans4529]

Wheelchair access into the van/truck would be great. With a lift and with enough room inside to fit (approx 660mm wide)

[@BuilderCreator]

Stairs to ramp with airbag (kneeling) function?

[@robertcox4286]

I think a wind shield that can open, kind of like the SHERP would be a great addition👌

[@geneb1719]

What about an air cushion like a hovercraft? Is the back door that opens for the outboard motor going to drag? Or is the prop low enough? Wonder where the water level will be. Another cool project. 👍👍

[@BuilderCreator]

The drive system will likely be something different than the door enclosed outdrive. We shall see. One of the areas I need lots of expert advice on.

[@anomamos9095]

I remember watching a special on movie vehicles that mentioned the two you mentioned. If true the vehicle from Damnation Alley was a marvel of Hollywood engineering and was in fact amazing. The creation from Ark II was a marvel of Hollywood Editing and the only thing amazing about it is that it was occasionally drive-able. The under pinnings were hailed out of a scrap yard where they were dumped for being old and worn out and the futuristic shell was barely a shell slapped on the original cab behind truck body with the driver having to sit way back and peer through the tiny view port left to him. Except for scenes of people entering and exiting no one entered the compartment as there was nothing in it and the vehicle often had to be towed to a new location for filming so most of the film of it moving was reused multiple times and even when on set they would leave it parked and film from different directions to make it look like a new location.

[@BuilderCreator]

Thought about getting into model building for Hollywood as a young man, but a mentor (model builder) told me about the hectic, slap it together, the camera will be far off, nature of the industry and looked to product development instead. As a side note- talked with a man who restored the original bat mobile for the tv series. Said he removed over 40 lbs of bondo on the tail fins. I guess back then budgets were tight.

[@anomamos9095]

@@BuilderCreator look at this awesome creation kzbin.info/www/bejne/e3y5qKN3ob58mNE

[@moiggc]

Very nice project, I'll be following.

[@daan8659]

Hi there! I love the idea of an amphibious off road camper, but the small wheels seem to comprimise it's offroad capabilities. Other than that, i really like the post apocalyptic look of it.

[@BuilderCreator]

Modeled with 40 inch wheels. Skipping up to 48s causes some problems, one being that if this becomes a kit the price of tires just about doubles after you go over the 40inch size, causing an expense that I would be forcing people into if the design worked around.

[@chuckc6338]

Add a fishing platform and “boat mode” controls on the roof- and access to the roof from the interior. If this could be something that could be single handedly launched from the land, go into a lake and used as a boat for a few days and then just drive back home- now that would be cool. Does anything else on the planet have that capability, while being street legal? I can only think of the custom converted milk tanker truck that drove and sailed around the world. I think it was called the “Orbiter”? Anyway, really cool idea, no matter what you decide to do with it we will enjoy the videos!

[@BuilderCreator]

There is a company building full size pusher motorhomes that are amphibious, but come at a cost close to $2 million. Ouch!

[@chuckc6338]

@@BuilderCreator Wow-that is an ouch! Yours is a very good idea- and I know that the design will be very well thought out. I can’t wait to see where it goes.

[@ainchamama]

I will definitely be in the market for a kit by the time they go on sale in the future! It would be great to include safety features like roll cages for crashes and a water pump in case of a leak when in "boat mode".

[@BuilderCreator]

Stay tuned!

[@mikeseawel8359]

I think water jet propulsion might be more compact. You might consider using a Suburban or full size van as your base vehicle to use some of the steel structure as a skeleton for your project. Anything to keep the costs down.

[@BuilderCreator]

The suburban and my 2500 share the same (similar) chassis. Cost was a factor.