Thread: Flying Crank Ghost -build or buy?

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I just saw a FCG on this site. I've never seen one before, and I love it! I'm trying to evaluate build or buy, keeping in mind there is only one full weekend between now and Halloween.

I've only been looking around less than one day, but it seems like finding the motors are a bit of a pain... Either have to go to the junkyard, or pay ~$60 for a new one. And if I get a 12v, then I need a transformer too. I've not even started to look for the head -I really like the versions that have a ghostly woman's face. Any idea where I could purchase that?

The rest of the rig seems really easy. But if I have to pay for a motor, and the woman's face mask is a few bucks, seems I'm maybe 1/2 way to just buying a new (premade) unit.

I'm interested in buying advice -for the motor, the mask/head, etc.

Thanks!

I bought mine from http://www.ghostbuilders.com./ several years ago. Very well made/engineered, quiet, has extra plug for light and no need for transformer. Down side is they are not cheap. Summary I've been very happy with it no regrets.

You can build one in a day. I use this motor from MonsterGuts.com:
http://monsterguts.com/index.php?act...d&productId=90 which costs $49 plus shipping. I'm guessing you'll spend close to $100 total for all the parts you'll need unless you have some of it already on hand.

depending on how mechanically enclined you are you could build it in one day - personally i am better with the more artistic stuff and not as comfortable with the measuring - cutting - and mechanical side --- that being said it still only took me two days - i second monsterguts for the motor - there are decent looking full builds for sale on ebay if you want to go that route but much more expensive than do it yourself...

Great suggestions so far, thanks! The rig by Ghostbuilders is excellent (but pricey). And Monsterguts seems to be the king, everyone is suggesting them for the motor. So good to have a place to go that many people have had good experience with.

Any additional suggestions are still welcome!

I'll second a good review with ghostbuilders FCG. Bought mine from them a few years back ( got it cheaper thru EBay bid, 1/2 price from what they normally get )
Good quiet motor, well made,I like the foam hands ( which i purchased a few extra ).

When mine 1st arrived, one of the finger tips was broken off, I emailed them & had an apology & a PAIR of replacement hands mailed to me by end of that week ! great customer service

I am making my own CFG this year. I just hope my motor is going to work fine. I didn't have the cash for the $50 motor from monster guts.

I think it looks great! Did you soak the fabric in something to make the fabric glow under blacklight? That really helps the effect, if you can afford a big enough blacklight.... I noticed Halloween City has a 20% off any single regular price item coupon online, btw. By "online" I mean you print it out off the web then take that into their stores.

I have purchased a few "gear motors" on ebay. I've been able to use them with great success. I just look for a low RPM from 3-6 or so. Only downside is ensure you are not getting a rotisserie motor as those are fairly loud.

I was thinking of stopping by Home Depot today (just because it's close) to see if they had any rotisserie motors. I wouldn't have known they were loud until much farther down the road, when it may have been too late to do anything about it. So thanks for the tip!