Detailed instructions can be found in "Killer Camera Rigs that you can build"
http://www.dvcamerarigs.com/DIY camera rigs[/link]

See my previous post on http://www.sonycreativesoftware.com/forums/ShowMessage.asp?ForumID=4&MessageID=540040ones I made.[/link] based on Digital Juice's plans.
I would not use plywood again but cabinet sheets, more expensive but don't warp
in high humidity. Get the material at a wood workers shop.

If I was going to redo the design I would pattern after http://www.porta-jib.com/videos.htmPorta-Jib Spider Dollies[/link].

Thanks everyone!

Sorry I didn't respond right away.

RCourtney: For your pipe track dolly system, what wheels did you use, and did you need to stagger them? Any problems using only 8 wheels? Did you experience trouble with flat spots?

Also, how would you or anyone else compare this idea http://homebuiltstabilizers.com/MembersRigs/dollies/avrdolly/Avr%20homebuilt%20camera%20dollypart1.mht to a wooden platform dolly? (Which is easier to attain smoothness with? I don't really care too much about portability.)

Thank you all so much for your tips and advice!!

The Digital Juice Tutorial was extremely good. I think I'll go that route instead. Thanks again, everyone!!

A Friend of mine just finished building his DIY dolly.
He got the wheels (2 sets) from eBay.
I've got top and bottom pictures here.
Here are a few comments from him about it.
**************************************
I did not use the screws that came supplied, I used bolts instead.
I centered our wheels at 24.5" so it could run on Matthews straight track.
I used a double layer of plywood with crossed grain (one horizontal and 1 vertical - glued and screwed together).
One layer is 3/4" the other is 5/8" high density laminate plywood.
The idea being it will always be level and won't easily warp.
I also have carry handles and glued carpet on top.
I used metal carpet strip on the edges and installed 2 tie down anchors for the tripod and monitor if needed.
**************************************

Mike

My wheels are inline skate wheels just like Digital Juice plans.
The skates were used but looked new and when spun they turned
almost forever indicating good bearings. Buying brand new wheels will
guarantee no flat spots. Storing the dolly platform wheels facing up is
important as they may develop a flat spot touching the floor for extended
storage time. (Not to mention the platform moves extremely easily and
could cause a fall if stepped on!)

My pipes actually caused a slight bump because I sawed them with a
hacksaw instead of a cutoff saw. My friend recut them and sanded using a
sanding disc machine. He also milled couplers for me, but you can use
irrigation pipe fittings and a little sand paper. If you are fairly close you
should not notice them too much. It is actually harder getting a smooth
push. Lots of practice is required.

RS170A's spacing is a good idea. I hope to make better tracks or some
type of spacer using "U" channel and crossbars. Bare pipes are hard to make
level with shims. (RS170A your platform unit looks better than mine!)

In the photos you notice I cut two hand holes for carrying with a sabre saw.
Please notice that I added O-rings as hold-downs for the tripod legs.
Sudden starts or stops could topple your camera.

------------------------------------------------------
I would like to make my next rig patterned after the Porta-Jib spider and be
sturdy enough for a jib.

Thanks everyone for the responses.

I can't wait to build it; and I'm glad I don't need a Class 1 to start trucking! :-)

My friend who built his own dolly sent me a few more pictures.
You can see them here.

Mike

Thanks for the pics! I'm actually using Digital Juice's tutorial, and I'm wondering if anyone followed "Billy's Blueprints" exactly.

Curious as to why he wants 5/16" holes in the angle aluminum when it's only a 1/4" bolt going through...

Also, the inline skate wheels I have need the inner spacer to be removed before the 1/4" bolt fits through... but then the bolt appears to be too skinny, since the inner part of the bearing minus the spacer is actually closer to 5/16".

Is this just me, or is 1/4" incorrect here?!

Sorry about the rant... you don't have to answer this unless you really want to... if you do, it would be most appreciated! :-)

I've sent him an email with your questions and am waiting for his reply.

Mike