Review: Loopin' Lightning Coaster

The other night, I made the Loopin' Lightning Coaster, which uses classic *and* micro Knex. This was my first coaster using both types of K'nex, and here are my thoughts on it...

The coaster was easy to build. It took me a mere 1.5-2 hours to build. However, the coaster did not work correctly. It had trouble getting over the first small hill, and it would never catch on the chain once it made it to the bottom. Also, I was not a huge fan of the track. I feel it is much less reliable than the ones that use tubing. Since the track is all attached with micro knex, it is much easier to break or just come apart.

Consequently, I did have to make some modifications to the track to allow the coaster cars to make it all the way down the track and attach onto the chain. So technically, this coaster isn't exactly the Loopin' Lightning, but it is fairly similar.

Knex Box Fan

As we approach summer and temperatures increase, I decided to create a motorized box fan. It's small, light, and fairly functional. However, I am planning on placing either paper or some sort of other material on the fan blades to create a greater breeze. I will try and post a video up of it soon!

Here's the front view

I attached the motor so that it is turning the rod that is bound to the large, yellow gear. As you might imagine, the gear does have its work cut out for it as it is turning the fan blades at a quick pace. However, this motor seems better-equipped for it than the two-part motor (the red and clear one that I use to run the Ferris Wheel).

Knex Electric Train

During high school every year, I would make an electric train every year near Christmas. It was always a little bit of a challenge to improve it each year. Well, this year, I decided to tackle making an electric train again. It's a work-in-progress right now, but I figured I would give an update. I used rubber bands in the wheels in order to give the train traction. The motor is on the back wheels, and I have easy access to the on/off switch. I think I am going to make the track bigger, though. Once I finish, I will take video of the train in motion. =D