Tundra Prerunner Updates & New OBS F-150 Prerunner Kibbetech

October 21, 2024

The latest developments at Kibbetech showcase the intricate work being done on a Toyota Tundra, focusing on its suspension and structural modifications. The front section of the Tundra is being meticulously crafted with extensive tube work to accommodate shock mounts and ensure there are no interference issues with the tires during full steer and bump. This process includes using a fixture that bolts onto the steering box and tubes, thereby establishing the location for the shock mount. Precise laser-cut tubes, matching those used in the tube chassis truck, are integrated into the design, ensuring a seamless and efficient build process. The bump mount area will be established once all welding is completed, with careful attention to the timing of the bump stop to avoid premature bottoming out.

Two people working in a garage or workshop are building a prerunner truck chassis. One person is welding metal parts while the other observes. Various tools and equipment, including a welding machine and a red stool, are visible in the background.
A person in a workshop is handling a metal frame structure of a prerunner vehicle with visible tools and other vehicle frames in the background.
A person installs a bracket on a vehicle frame, likely for a prerunner, in a workshop setting. The scene includes metal structures and tools in the background.

Sheet Metal Work and Electronics

Dashboard Fabrication

A detailed view of a car body with a roll cage being installed, showing welding seams and sheet metal reinforced by blue tape and rivets, with part of the vehicle painted white. A tape measure and a tool are visible in the foreground.

In the fabrication phase, significant progress is being made on the sheet metal work for the dashboard. A challenge arose in creating a seamless, one-piece dash extending to the vehicle’s forward section. The solution involves employing sheet metal, which will be welded and blended before being upholstered to form a neat seam. The dashboard will be bolted on separately, supported by a robust frame structure, ensuring durability and functionality.

A partially disassembled prerunner vehicle in a garage with a blue tarp covering the front. Two people are working on the vehicle, surrounded by tools and machinery, with an open garage door in the background.

Integration of Electronics

With the structural elements nearing completion, the focus is shifting towards integrating electronics. Components like the dash shifters and columns are on their way, along with a variety of electronic systems. Once these elements are installed, the vehicle will undergo a series of final touches before the cab is removed for post-processing. This step is crucial to ensure the vehicle operates smoothly and efficiently with all new modifications seamlessly integrated.

Tube Chassis Truck Developments

Person holding a metal part within a tubular frame structure, likely part of a prerunner vehicle, in an automotive workshop setting.
Close-up of a metal chassis structure under construction, featuring tubular framing and bolted joints, typically used in off-road vehicles like a prerunner.

The tube chassis truck is another focal point in the workshop, where extensive welding and fabrication are underway. The fixture remains in place to guide the construction process, ensuring that all tubes are correctly positioned and welded. This meticulous process involves several stages, including tacking in filler pieces and allowing components to cool before proceeding with additional welding tasks. The goal is to achieve a robust shock mount and tube assembly that meets the demanding requirements of off-road racing.

OBS Ford Modifications

A person in a workshop is working on the chassis of a prerunner truck with an exposed metal framework. The red cab of the truck is attached to the frame, and various tools and equipment are visible in the surroundings.
A red and white truck cab sits on a metal frame with roll cage structures and is elevated on jack stands inside a garage. The cab is missing its front and rear ends, showing exposed components and an unfinished suspension system underneath. Various tools and equipment are scattered around the workshop, and metal shelving can be seen in the background.
A red and white prerunner truck body with a metal roll cage is on jack stands in a workshop. A person is working underneath the body. There is a blue pad on the frame, and a hand is visible on the right side. A large piece of machinery is in the background.
Close-up of a Prerunner roll cage under construction inside a red vehicle body with visible welds on metal tubes and panels.

Engine and Structural Adjustments

The OBS Ford project involves a series of customizations aimed at enhancing its performance and structural integrity. A custom beam kit has been installed, powered by a 408 engine from Mulinix Racing Engines. The motor mounts are being redesigned for better clearance and ease of access, addressing issues observed with the previous setup. These modifications are essential for optimizing the vehicle’s performance, especially when dealing with the headers that conflict with the motor mounts.

Chassis and Suspension Enhancements

The project’s scope includes comprehensive work on the chassis and suspension. With shock mounts, bump mounts, and pivot points completed, attention is now on the steering system, which is set to feature a novel design not yet revealed. The cab, originally from another vehicle, has been replaced with one that has clean registration. This change involved significant alterations to the cage layout and frame, shortening the wheelbase for better handling and performance.

Machine Shop Progress and Future Plans

A workshop with various machines including a Haas TL-20 lathe and a Haas vertical machining center. A man in a hooded sweatshirt and cap stands in the center. Shelves with tools, tires, and equipment line the right wall. A workbench with items on top and industrial lighting is overhead.

The machine shop at Kibbetech is bustling with activity as new equipment and setups are being finalized. Recent additions include new workstations with wood tops, providing organized and efficient spaces for each machine. This includes designated carts for staging materials and managing parts throughout the production process. The lathe, mill, and 5-axis machine each have dedicated setups to streamline operations and boost productivity.

The upcoming launch of the UMC (Universal Machining Center) is highly anticipated. While tooling and initial setup have faced delays, the machine is nearly ready to commence operations. This sophisticated equipment will enable advanced machining techniques, including 3D surfacing and simultaneous motions, crucial for handling complex parts with intricate radiuses and fillets. The implementation of 5th-axis tooling solutions promises to revolutionize the machining process, reducing the number of operations required for completing parts.

Conclusion

The projects at Kibbetech highlight the intricate and detailed work involved in high-performance vehicle modifications. From the Toyota Tundra’s suspension to the OBS Ford’s engine and chassis alterations, every task is carried out with precision and expertise. The ongoing advancements in the machine shop are set to enhance production capabilities, allowing Kibbetech to continue pushing the boundaries of engineering and fabrication. As these projects progress, they underscore the importance of innovation and meticulous planning in the automotive industry, paving the way for future developments and breakthroughs.

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