Build an Express but different

Express, Liverpool, Rocket, Dirty Little Monster, etc.

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bluegate
Posts: 32
Joined: Wed Apr 16, 2008 9:15 pm

Re: Build an Express but different

Post by bluegate »

The chassis I got is strong as an ox, doesn't bend a bit when I installed the trannies.
I don't know who made it.
Drilling was very difficult, broke 3 drills on it and ruined my stepdrill... :shock:
But I am happy with the strenght of the chassis.

Good luck!
bluegate
Posts: 32
Joined: Wed Apr 16, 2008 9:15 pm

Re: Build an Express but different

Post by bluegate »

This weekend I've build a second PPiMV into my Xpress.
I had installed a Type-2 PPIMV when I build it, but wanted te switch between two levels.

So I tapped 6,3 from V1, rectified with 4x 1N4007 diodes, added 1000uF between + and -.
wired to a input socket and to a 6V relay DPDT with a diode over the coil.

The relay adds a Type-3 PPIMV to the first lugs of the Type-2 PPIMV.

It works, now I can set the solo volume with the first PPIMV and the rythm volume with
the second PPIMV.
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M Fowler
Posts: 14036
Joined: Wed Jan 16, 2008 2:19 am
Location: Walcott ND

Re: Build an Express but different

Post by M Fowler »

That chassis must be stainless steel to break dull and break bits. I used to own a bar and grill and my friend and I installed the hood for the grille. It was a bitch and I even had industrial grade stainless steel drill bits. :D

Mark
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RJ Guitars
Posts: 2663
Joined: Tue Nov 14, 2006 3:49 am
Location: Los Alamos, New Mexico
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Re: Build an Express but different

Post by RJ Guitars »

Bluegate, that is a pretty cool build... very impressive not only that you got it all in there but you got it quiet as well. From what I understand the Express is one of most finicky amps in the world when in getting the lead dress happy.

I've never really been accused of being a good Wreck cloner, although I've built several Wreck inspired amps. One thing I have come to appreciate about the Trainwrecks is the big chassis allows you to work comfortably and every amp seems to share some basic layout pieces with the next. I've got a couple dozen chassis pre-made so I'm just gonna watch for now, but more power to ya if you can make it happen in the smaller chassis. The Heyboer transformers are pretty huge so I'll enjoy learning from you all.

Nice job and congrats, that's a pretty good project. Before you're all done you should build a Rocket amp with us and maybe a Liverpool too.

rj
Good, Fast, or Cheap -- Pick two...

http://www.rjguitars.net
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bluegate
Posts: 32
Joined: Wed Apr 16, 2008 9:15 pm

Re: Build an Express but different

Post by bluegate »

Thanks, I'm waiting for the parts to arrive to build my second Express.
This time a slightly bigger chassis and Toneslut transformers.

It will have a few extra's like footswitchable PPIMV and Fast/Gradual.
bluegate
Posts: 32
Joined: Wed Apr 16, 2008 9:15 pm

Re: Build an Express but different

Post by bluegate »

I got my Toneslut transformers today :D
The PT is huge!
My chassis isn't big enough to place them like the original layout, seems like I'll be playing
Tetris with all components again...

Now I have to wait for my pull-punch to arrive so I can make the holes for the octalsockets.
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