Jack Rimer

Very efficient wheel system.

Have you seen this:

Here is a video.

After the original lift, the model traverses the whole course via gravity. There is no boost or propulsion applied to the train. In fact, we have brakes to slow it down near the end because of the energy left over.

You guys should recognize this model. We are building it for the ASTRA toy show next week at the convention center in Pittsburgh. It will be displayed in the concourse of the convention center during the show. After that, Kennywood is taking possession of the model to promote The Steel Curtain at the park. Eventually it will be stored at the Heinz…[Read more]

Someone has made the Thunderbolt with CDX Blocks. It’s the same guy who did the Jack Rabbit.

I just took a Cyclone, bought about $40 worth of parts from Bricklink, and Voila! Plus it has a loop. 🙂

Was the LUG group able to see the model and handle it?

It’s about that time of year…. Thoughts turn to Kennywood and summer picnics. 🙂
My suggestion would be to get with the builder of the Jack Rabbit to discuss the size requirements for a base and ravine depth.

Neither the Jack Rabbit nor the Thunderbolt will take many supports. They hug the ground so the terrain is an integral part of the design.

Maybe send him a message on YouTube. If you can’t get him I will try to message him from our site.

The person who made this lives in Pittsburgh. Perhaps you could get with him and work on building terrain for this ride rather than the Thunderbolt.

Someone sent us this today. It is absolutely brilliant. If you have ever ridden the Jack Rabbit, you will know what I mean.

That’s not our system. In fact, judging from the track, I don’t think it even functions. The transitions are not smooth enough for a train with no upstop wheels to negotiate the circuit.

Did you have issues with the train staying engaged on the lift? If so, (common problem) be sure to look at step 23. You probably didn’t add the intermediate crossties between the stationary crossties on the lift.
I could design the Thunderbolt on perhaps a wooden base. I would need you all to build terrain over the base and add all scenery.

Keep me updated on your impressions of the kit. Let me know what others think.

I am willing to send a kit up for someone or a group of you all to build. Just to get a feel for how the system works.

In Chantilly? I was there for a couple hours on setup day, but didn’t technically attend.