Thread: Looking for a tutorial for a Grave digger

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After Halloween this year I want to make a grave digger. I have never made a moving prop so I am looking for a beginner's tutorial on how to make one with a head that moves side to side and also raises and lowers a lantern. I would need to know the absolute basics, what motors to get and such. I have spent two hours looking under tutorials to no avail. I would appreciate being sent in the correct direction. Thanks.

I 2nd this, thanks

Did you guys search for grave diggers on the forum? I know there's a zombie butler on here made with a blucky. I think it has a tutorial written for it. Wiper motor are a favourite. Same with deer motors (from christmas ornaments). Hope this helps.

Also using vent motors (search) you will find Tuts and how use these motors. Generally speaking, any low rpm, rotational motor that hold load (weight) depending on what prop you are trying to build. Other examples are rotisserie motor, ice cream maker, occillating vans work well for side to side movement...etc.

I have found in building props, that it is not so much what motor to use but the linkages to get the prop to make the movement you want it to do. You can accomplish "vertical" or "horizontal" movement with rotational motors, its all about the linkages.

Ghouliet,

Here is a link that may help get you started (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YphVBg4dQjs). It is a modified ver. of the PropMasters Poor Man's 3 Axis (http://halloweenpropmaster.com/prop_head_movement.htm).

Happy Haunting!

I did one last year using a Siatzu Massager. The motors are strong and are designed to bear alot of weight. I ment to post it earlier in the year but just haven't had the chance to get to it. I guess I'll try to get to it in the next day or so. Believe it or not, it was really easy to do.
-Z

I would like a gravedigger for mine. But I decided that I will dress up as him, use a mask and stand still, when kids come by, I turn and talk to them! Should be fun, plus I'll have a shovel to smack the smart asses with (Just kidding)!