HD - Im still going to mock it up and try it, i simply just brought my legs up to the mouting point and guestimated it wouldnt work so we will see for sure soon. Im actually thinking of lopping em off and cutting them down to re-use, i figure we could probably gain an inch or two forward and down, could make a big difference.
As for the fabricated pieces, prior to taking the tank to a radiator shop to have it professionally lined i examined the bottom of the tank for the first time.......... smear some peanut butter on your tank seams and thats what it looked like.......... grrrr, and to boot a few pin-holes. So i spent all of today runnin around, first to the radiator shop where they offered to take he tank and whallop the fabricator with it, but then recommended i take it to an aluminum boat shop who's co-owner is respected for his welding and finishing skiils. He made similair comments after looking at the piece and told me he will be happy to fix it for me ($100, well spent at this point i think). But first i had to get it sandblasted, considering i was a 45 minute drive from home i decided to instead go to a powder-coating shop and have em do it for me ($22, cheaper than gas, ill take it). Took it back to the Gentleman at the boat shop and i should have it back by the weekend.
Sooooo, im sorry this is getting long-winded but figured i share my thoughts on all of this:
Initially i was furious over the whole matter, blind faith into a local guy, and not having the foresight or knowledge to inspect and know that the product he handed back to me was crap. But to be honest, from this issue alone i have probably brought 4-5 people and their shops into a personal network of support and knowledge. Its an expensive education, but everyone i have encountered so far has given quite a bit to me, one machinist/bike builder spent 2 hours just BSing with me and taught a great deal. A guy from the radiator shop wants to teach me how to weld and shape metal on the weekends. And i discovered a reputable local powder-coater that has awesome prices, and i got to see his work.
So, could be much worse, sort of expected speed bumps on the way, afterall this building project is a first for me, including every detail that comes with it. But at the end of the day i know much more and have exactly what im seeking, a strong base knowledge to be able to build upon and be more efficient and economical in this work.
Mostly little things coming up as i wait for the tank to get done/lined, hopefully soon ill post some updates on the roller! Gotta start thinking about all the small things like cables/tubing/controls/wiring and whatnot =D