Fullthrottle_11

iTrader: (10)

My son wants a 10 scale crawler but only has $200 max to spend. So what is the best one out there. We don't need a radio or receiver as we have those.

AreCee

iTrader: (1)

If you want a new one I think that the Venom Creeper is about the only kit under 200 but you'll need a servo, motor, speed control, battery, and paint.

Perhaps a used one would fit the bill.

kwkride

iTrader: (6)

Is he wanting a comp crawler or a scaler?
Will he be competing or just bashing around the yard?

RockHoundRC

http://www.rpphobby.com/product_p/ven8300r.htm

http://www.rpphobby.com/product_p/ven8300g.htm

untchabl

iTrader: (4)

If you're wanting a scaler, hunt around for a used Axial SCX10. Buddy of mine picked one up for $100 as a roller.

Fullthrottle_11

iTrader: (10)

Since I am new to crawling too, what is the difference in the two? He will just be bashing as there are no competions in our area. So back yard and camping. We have SC trucks that we race so this is all new.

handicrawler

iTrader: (11)

A comp crawler is basically a full on rock crawler (AX10, Losi Night Crawler/Comp Crawler, RC4WD Bully, Berg, XR10, Venom Creeper) and runs 2.2" or 1.9" wheels depending on class. A scaler is basically a truck that looks like a normal vehicle. Normal as in off road looking. Axial SCX10/Honcho, Tamiya Hilift, etc. Check out RPPHobby.com for good prices on new stuff. Also check out Rccrawler.com for a ton of info on any kind of rc crawling.

If you just want to bash around the back yard, I would suggest getting an Axial SCX10 honcho or AX10. Both good out of the box, need little upgrades, and have a ton of aftermarket products to make them hardcore. Enjoy the hobby and welcome to the crawler world!

Bart Bender

iTrader: (3)

I agree with Handi. But you're going to be hard pressed to pick up either one of those rigs out of the box rtr for $200. Join RCC and get some ideas and start saving. You may also find a sweet deal on a used rig in your area. People are always upgrading to the next best thing so the deals are out there. Don't just jump in and buy the cheapest rig you can afford. You will be disappointed and spend more in the long run upgrading.

billm67

iTrader: (3)

Find a good used AX10 off RCcrawler. THey are around and the parts are plentiful. They are fairly tough and you can mod it into whatever you like. My son go anywhere with the ax10 that I can with my berg.

Fullthrottle_11

iTrader: (10)

Thanks for all of the input. We found a Losi night crawler on the for sale forum for $190.00 with a 5000 lipo. It arrived today and what a great deal, looks like it had maybe one pack through it.

outoforder

iTrader: (34)

be sure to post up pics

Snipervision

You can usually find a Losi Mini Crawler 1/18 scale on Craigslist for $100-$125. Great way to start. New they run $220. They come with a 2.4ghz radio and moving the battery to the back along with adding stick on weights inside the front tires & 50% in the rear tires makes them crawl even better. Once you get the bug it won't take long to switch them to a 4 link set up and replace some of the other areas that could be better. I have 2 and love them. Don't be fooled by the $100 used price as my 1.9 mini comp rig is somewhere in the $1k range & ready for the 2011 season. Good luck & see you on the trails.

handicrawler

iTrader: (11)

Good choice and a great price for a beginning rock crawler! If you decide you want to take your truck to the next level there are a couple of inexpensive ways you can upgrade it.

On the stock tires, upgrade to the Rovers (soft compound) tires. They are fairly inexpensive and work great new or used. I would couple them with some Crawler Innovation Double Duece 5.5" foams. Trim 1/4" off the inner foam for the narrow stock losi rims. Rovers love those foams on these trucks!!

You can also stop by a local tire store and pick up some stick weights. Most will give to you for free. Add 6-8 oz per front wheel and 2-3 oz per rear wheel.

Upgrading your stock losi motor for more wheel speed is another good hop up. The integy 35t V11 motor is a great way to start for only $20 new at most hobby shops or online. Use the stock pinion gear and it works great.

I did all these upgrades to both of the Losi Night Crawlers I had and both were crawling beasts. I have won a few competitions in Sportsman class with both of my trucks with just those 3 mods.

Rovers @ RPPHobby.com $14.99/pair (on sale right now, reg $17.99)
CI Double Duece 5.5" foams @ RPPHobby.com $24.95/set of 4
Integy Matrix Pro Lathe Motor 35t @RPPHobby.com $18.99

I am not endorsing RPP, but they have great service and good prices. Your LNC will perform just fine sitting stock, but if you ever decide you want to compete with it, for less than $75 you can make it comp worthy!

If you have any questions on set up or anything here, please fire me a pm and I will be happy to help any way I can!

Peace.