1918 GN Thunderbug No 49.
I just had to reproduce the front axle and suspension!
The Inspiration Car
The GN Thunder Bug. I just had to reproduce the front axle and suspension!
The Chassis
75mm X 25mm Box section
The Body
Any part that is structural is fabricated in steel and welded. All the body is 1mm aluminium.
Running Gear & Engine choice
Honda GX200 engine. Governor and oil level sensor removed. Free flow exhaust, larger main jet and aftermarket aircleener and adaptor. Torque convertor and secondary shaft driving through a modified 1959 Austin Mini differential. Single hydraulic disc on rear axle with a cable operated hand brake linked to the brake pedal. Front springs are modified camping trailer springs.
How long did it take to build?
About two years. Mainly because I build Norton motorcycle engines for a living and customers engines take priority!
What’s the least and most favourite part of the build?
Every part was an engineering challenge, I enjoyed every part of the build.
The Little details
I have tried to copy the very interesting front suspension and steering linkage. Also tried to keep the body shape close to the lines of the early GN cars.
How does it drive?
A little scary first time out. First change was to drop the seat by four inches and fit side panels on both sides of the seat to keep me from sliding off the seat. I fitted a dummy clutch pedal to press on as this helps to keep me back in the seat.
Ongoing changes and tweaks
Probably make some one piece front body panels and I may try and drop the steering wheel by about three inches.
