Building my first Gas Robot

[ddlt1]

I am in the process of building my first gasoline powered Robot. I am using a 110cc Atv to start My project. The problem I am having is the Steering for the ATv. Can someone help me with how I can build my own Servo to steer the Robot. I will be using the existing tires and steering mechanism. I just need a Servo strong enough to do the job.  Thanks for any help.

[pomprocker]

oh thats cool i didnt even think of a gas powered robot. id like to see how you implement a fuel monitor sensor.

[Trumpkin]

How much mechanical experience do you have?

[ArcMan]

What will your interface to the steering system be?  For example, do you have to turn a handlebar tube or can you attach directly into the tie rods?

[Gertlex]

I'll assume the ATV has front wheel steering like a standard auto... Would the servo those be attached directly to the steering column?

If you can figure out the torque needed to turn the vehicle, that would be a good starting point.

There's probably too many unknowns for us to help you at this point.  A picture of the ATV would be quite useful, I think.

[ddlt1]

Thanks for all your reply.

As far as mechanical experience, I can weld, plasma cut, wire , and make about anything I need to make.

Yes I can hook up directly to the tie rods or the steering shaft. I thought about using a vantec motor controller and a linear motor for steering.  I just need some wiring know how ore some one that has build a servo motor for heavy torque application.
Thanks for all your help.

[Admin]

Something like this below? First you need to figure out the required torque to rotate the handlebars. Buy one of those weight measurement things with the spring inside, attach to the handlebars, then pull.

After you know the torque, go find a motor with a high gearing ratio (turns slowly, but has high torque).

Then you'll need to attach an encoder, and control the whole thing with a microcontroller using PID.