12LikesMonster Jam Solid Axle Monster Truck - best platform?
04-27-2018, 10:43 AM
#1
Monster Jam Solid Axle Monster Truck - best platform?
I want to build another solid axle truck. My last one was many, many moons ago when the Clodbuster axles were pretty much all that was available.
Now that we have options (Axial SMT10, Ground Pounder, Wraith based, etc), what is the best platform for building a monster jam "freestyle" type of truck?
Now that we have options (Axial SMT10, Ground Pounder, Wraith based, etc), what is the best platform for building a monster jam "freestyle" type of truck?
04-28-2018, 10:27 AM
#8
Tech Addict
iTrader: (19)
I have been thinking about the same question. I have an old Wheely King and a heavily modified clod. They are both a lot of fun, but require lots of repairs and maintenance. Given the upheaval in the industry (companies merging, going out of business) I agree with your feeling, which is that parts support is the key issue these days.
Given that the axles and drivetrain are the heart of the MT, my plan is this:
-- get a TRX-4 roller (axles, transmission, links)
-- eliminate the portals (portal delete kit from SSD)
-- get a one-speed conversion for the transmission (no need for 2-speed with modern brushless+lipo)
-- SMT10 chassis
-- proline shocks (although traxxas would be fine here as well)
-- eliminate the remote locking in the rear for sure, undecided on the front (not sure about durability)
That would give you a Traxxas driveline all the way through, and I like their parts support and aftermarket support.
Given that the axles and drivetrain are the heart of the MT, my plan is this:
-- get a TRX-4 roller (axles, transmission, links)
-- eliminate the portals (portal delete kit from SSD)
-- get a one-speed conversion for the transmission (no need for 2-speed with modern brushless+lipo)
-- SMT10 chassis
-- proline shocks (although traxxas would be fine here as well)
-- eliminate the remote locking in the rear for sure, undecided on the front (not sure about durability)
That would give you a Traxxas driveline all the way through, and I like their parts support and aftermarket support.
04-29-2018, 07:27 AM
#9
I don’t know the answer to your question but I know what the answer isn’t and that’s the Redcat Ground Pounder. I got one for cheap and it’s been on the shelf broken for years. The axle housings break easily, the ring and pinion need an incredible amount of shimming, the spur needs to be upgraded out of the box, the springs are too stiff, just don’t. The radio is kind of cool with its steering options (front, rear, 4ws and crab walk) but the drivetrain basically needs to be replaced entirely. There are axle braces and upgrade parts out there but you’ll spend more on those than replacing the drivetrain.
05-01-2018, 05:49 AM
#10
Thanks for all of the input.
I am thinking about using a Wraith for the basics, like axles and drivetrain. I will probably order the custom chassis and just convert it into a MT. It seems both affordable and fun. I'm sure the Wraith axles are up to the task, or so I would think.
I am thinking about using a Wraith for the basics, like axles and drivetrain. I will probably order the custom chassis and just convert it into a MT. It seems both affordable and fun. I'm sure the Wraith axles are up to the task, or so I would think.
05-01-2018, 06:47 AM
#11
Tech Regular
iTrader: (11)
Thanks for all of the input.
I am thinking about using a Wraith for the basics, like axles and drivetrain. I will probably order the custom chassis and just convert it into a MT. It seems both affordable and fun. I'm sure the Wraith axles are up to the task, or so I would think.
I am thinking about using a Wraith for the basics, like axles and drivetrain. I will probably order the custom chassis and just convert it into a MT. It seems both affordable and fun. I'm sure the Wraith axles are up to the task, or so I would think.
05-01-2018, 08:57 AM
#14
Tech Regular
iTrader: (11)
That is a prototype chassis made by Tad Goad (no idea if he plans to produce them), but the geometry is basically standard twin force. If you buy a twin force, servo mount, and some axle adapters for that wheel tire setup you basically have the truck above. That chassis is just for looks. Much better option than an Axial based truck IMO. Ground Pounder isn't even an option, as stated above haha.
05-01-2018, 10:17 AM
#15
SMT-10 is my choice. Dont go wild on the power and you are set. I currently run a 17t Radon brushed motor, an XL5 on 2s and it has plenty of go. Next on my list is a proper servo(running the stock TSX45 and its hurting).
If you want wild power then go with the Kyosho. The current Mad Crusher has a great looking body and really only needs some Clod tires to look the part.
34253B Mad Crusher VE EP-MT 4WD Readyset
If you want wild power then go with the Kyosho. The current Mad Crusher has a great looking body and really only needs some Clod tires to look the part.
34253B Mad Crusher VE EP-MT 4WD Readyset