This article was taken from the October 2014 issue of WIRED magazine. Be the first to read WIRED's articles in print before they're posted online, and get your hands on loads of additional content by subscribing online.
Achieving over 40kph on a skateboard takes more than just human muscle power. According to San Francisco-based engineer Ryan Bavetta, a 3.7hp model-aeroplane engine is perfect to supercharge your ride. This may not be the hoverboard of Wired's dreams, but it sure looks the part. Here's how to build your own propeller-powered speed machine -- just don't forget to wear a helmet.
You Will need
- A 235mm x 1.5m x 19mm plank of wood
- A jigsaw
- Household fan cage
- Skateboard trucks with risers
- Grip tape
- Transmitter
- Receiver, servo and battery Model-aeroplane engine --
Bavetta recommends the "light and powerful" OS 1.60FX 3.7 HP - "Pusher" type model-aeroplane propeller
- 950cc fuel tank
- Glow fuel
- Glow starter
- Starter motor
Cut it out Trace the design for your skateboard on to the piece of wood, aiming for a metre in length and leaving the back wide enough for the engine. "Then," says Bavetta, "cut it out using a jigsaw and sand down the edges to prevent any splinters." Cut your adhesive tape to match and stick it to the top of the board
Join the trucks Cut two engine supports long enough to raise the fan cage above the back of the board. Screw through from the bottom, "making sure to leave enough space for the engine," Bavetta says. Cut a small piece of wood to fit horizontally as a shelf, and screw in place. Bolt trucks to the front and rear ends of the board.
Fix the engine
"Mount the fan cage to the back of the support, attach the engine, then fit the propeller," explains Bavetta. Attach the fuel tank to the engine and fix it to the support with a hose clamp. Connect the servo to the receiver, wire its arm to the throttle and slot the electronics into the shelf between the engine mount.
Get aboard Connect the glow starter to the glow plug then slot the starter motor on to the front of the propeller and spin it till the engine starts. Leave it running for a few minutes then remove the glow starter. Test using the transmitter to control the servo-connected throttle before jumping on and trying it out.
This article was originally published by WIRED UK
