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Bigfoot - build has started.

atom3624

By atom3624
in Monster RCs

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After having been away for a couple of weeks with work, I've finally found a few days free from the family - necessary to limit any loss of parts!!

I dove straight in, so there's no 'step-by-step' of the gear assembly - its in the instructions anyway.

 

I've gone for quite a few - OK, all available as is typical of me - alloy parts from the start.

 

The Tamiya kit is excellent, as expected, but I hate cross-head screws.

I purchased a replacement stainless steel set of screws from Ebay - sourced from Liverpool actually.

I have a new problem, in that they're nearly all 'dome headed' hex drive screws. Nothing wrong with that, except I prefer cap head bolts - bigger hex size and less chance of 'rounding' them.

I've ordered cap head stainless bolts of the correct sizes off Ebay, and will mount them the opposite way to Tamiya - they have the nuts on the outside. I'll have the cap 'head' on the outside, mounting the nuts on the inside. I'm also going to use Nylok nuts instead of the serrated ones, to limit damage and still hold everything together well...

 

I've also got a set of rubber shielded bearings from RC Bearings - these will be used where possible on exterior / exposed bearings.

 

I've now got a huge amount of extra screws now!!

 

 
I've given all gears a good coating of Moly Disulphide grease, and have NO bushes ANYWHERE. All have been replaced with bearings.
 

Trying to sort out modifications to a kit, with a family, and travelling can go a little pear-shaped ....

'Everything' is M3 sized, so I thought I'd go one better than the kit, clipping plastic rod end cups onto the ball ends, which can wear and stretch, a little.

I ordered a load of RC4WD M3 rod ends - then I realised last night, during building ..... that the links are actually M4!!

There's always a use for rod ends, but I do have a fair few more than I'd like for now!!

 

I've managed to locate M4 threaded, M3 ball holed alloy rod ends that will be suitable.

 

Serves me right for not REALLY reading the instructions.

The build will be great, eventually.

 

Mark of Outlaw Graphics has done a fantastic job with the body, as usual.

Al.

Edited by atom3624
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Not much activity this evening - waiting for bolts to come through to replace the screws in the screw kit I bought.

Decided to tidy up and classify all screws I needed, and also to separate and 'lightly sort' the Tamiya screws.

 

Hopefully I can make some more headway tomorrow - 3 more evenings before the family returns so time is limited.

The build won't finish as I only ordered the correct rod ends last night, which are already on their way ... from China.

 

The super heavy duty front and rear bumpers were, erm, obviously 'home grown', as the spacing of one pair of horizontal bumper bars wasn't the same.

Only way out was to hope the main bumper braces could take it - they did - and twist them slightly to allow for the perhaps 4 mm difference.

I'll photograph and post to better explain in a few minutes.

 

 

Al.

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Photos of the 'bumper problem':

 

The good one - near-enough perfect:

 

The problem - see the different in the hole position?

 
The, erm, 'solution' - not ideal, but it'll work, and won't be obvious, once built up:
 
Should be able to advance it some more tomorrow, hoping some of the bolts arrive.
Al.

 

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That was a ruler to indicate how far out the bumper bars were.

 

With keys that small, my stubby fingers would have no chance!!

 

Build continued BIG TIME this evening.

 

Managed to forget I'm using stainless, not hardened steel bolts and had a couple of 'issues'!!

Fortunately I managed to remove both bolt stubs without problem and all is well again.

 

I've taken photos, but need my works computer, so will upload tomorrow.

 

I'm waiting on M4 rod ends and some conical washers to distance them a little.

 

Ended up eating at midnight, as I always did when I did a build in the past!!

 

ZZZ time. Photos tomorrow. More advances tomorrow evening.

 

All is looking good. I need to test out the twin motors in situ and plan to do so tomorrow evening.

 

Al.

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Last night's progress!!

 

1. Initial building up of the side plates:

 

2. Bumpers and Motor / Gearbox assembly added - had to remove one of the bracing struts as the motor cooling fans were in the way, but everything else is much stiffer than stock and those bumpers are something else!!

 
3. Body mounting Posts added:
Edited by atom3624
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I'll need to see how it gets on.

If the MERV's anything to go by, these motors just don't get too hot, and I don't plan on running her too hard anyway.

 

I had actually considered that option.

I'm now having to wait for the M4 rod ends I'd overlooked - ordered a load of M3's!!

 

Family's back on Friday, so I don't anticipate completion. Never mind, it's been fun to get it going so far.

 

I want to try out the motors in situ, so will try that this evening - unless the longer bolts come for the shock mounts through the axles ....

 

I MIGHT mount the body.

One reason for not buying the anodised blue parts, particularly the mounting posts, is unless you like your model running with huge body posts, they'll need to be cut down. This would reveal verying degrees of shiny cut aluminium - so silver colour was easier.

Al.

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You've got underside photos already.

Here they are again:

 

 

I haven't tightened the ties as I envisaged having to wrestle for space a little.

 

With all of the alloy - kit and the extra bits - it's a very stiff chassis anyway. I'll try running at half throttle for perhaps 5 minutes or more this evening and see how warm everything gets.

Al.

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THANKS!!

 

Here's a few 'teaser' photos.

 

Mark's work is superb again.

 

DON'T FORGET:

1. I haven't drilled the mounting holes yet.

2. It's resting on the very tall posts - so will be much lower down.

3. Once I get the axles / tie rods sorted it will go up again!!

 

 

The green tape is actually 'waterproof' duct tape I always put on the insides of my bodies to protect the paint from 'gravel rash'. It's a bit bright I admit. I might go over it with black tape, in time.

Al.

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The more I see those photos, the more I dislike the green!!

It SERIOUSLY clashes with the blue - highlighted by the camera flash.

 

I have adhesive silver foil tape as well - that will look good on the inside - might try that - there's this evening sorted!!

I'll drill the mount holes first and see how low I can mount the body - Tamiya chassis are notoriously 'scale', i.e. too high!!

 

Al.

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My bad, I didn't realise they were taken from below.

Yeah, CC motors are quite efficient, so with two of them they shouldn't be too stressed.

I think you're right - less wires anyway!!

It's looking REALLY nice.

 

Shame I cannot complete it before the rabble, sorry, the FAMILY return from their visit to relatives during half-term break .....

 

I'll just 'nibble' at it, as the parts come in, and the weather gets wetter, sorry warmer .....

Al.

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  1. Drilled the mount holes - very carefully, step by step on the Bigfoot shell.
  2. Took a few photos of the shell mounted close to properly.
  3. Cut down the alloy posts - unfortunately, they're not adjustable.
  4. The waterproof duct tape is strong and practical, but being lined with bright green tape stands out in photos. I re-lined (on top - not going to pull off the old and risk the paint) using adhesive aluminium foil - looks decent.
  5. Received more bolts today. Ground out the final pair of alloy axle braces enough to permit mounting of the servo mount (quite hard work actually!!).
  6. Used the bound 'Thunder Maxx' Rx to wind up the motors in Bigfoot. Without the fans, and possibly exaggerated whilst stationary, the motors did get quite warm. I could still keep my fingers on them, so not too hot. I'm going to proceed and keep the fans just to be safe.
  7. Took some more photos - to be inserted tomorrow.

Another busy day!!

Tomorrow's the last before the family returns, so I won't be able to complete the build. I'll need to start putting things into 'safe storage' to avoid damage.

Al.

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A few photos.

 

I've mounted the shell as low as I can, as the 'Tamiya way' is very realistic, making MT's quite high.

 

First couple of photos highlight the green 'waterproof' duct tape I've lined the inside with, to protect it - mmmhhh, me no like!!

 

Spent 2 hours cutting and peeling adhesive backed foil tape to coat the green tape - appearance - looks much better, 'though the green tape will be doing the protecting - remains underneath but adhesion is very strong:

 
Alongside the 'Thunder Maxx' - will plug the ESC's into the Maxx for a motor test:

 

The intention was to determine if the motor fans were required or not. After 5-6 minutes, static at perhaps 2/3 throttle, I could place my finger on the motors and keep it there without problem, but they were warm, so I'll keep the fans and wire them in. The test was performed with them in position, but not plugged in.

 

Couple of photos of Thunder Maxx in front. Don't forget the axles and wheels haven't been mounted yet - the Bigfoot will be a good 6-7 cm higher once completed, so all looking good.

Don't be misled by perspective. Both shells are within 5 mm length of each other:

 

I didn't expect them and the rod ends haven't arrived yet, so I'll have to put the Bigfoot into 'safe storage' pending the arrival of the rod ends and some free time.

Al.

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Completed the 2nd axle, and fitted another 1256TG I had.

'I have a cunning plan' I'm going to try for occasional 4WS - not directly linked to the front - just like the full size ones.

It might work.

If not, I've another kit, to lock the read solid.

 

Finally found the SR300 Rx I was fairly certain I had - no need to keep on using the Maxx every time for a test.

 

Packing up time in readiness for the family's return - pity I couldn't complete everything, but I've no intention to rush it all.

 

Overall impressions are dominated by that shell - fantastic job by Mark of Outlaw Graphics - no surprise!

Chassis with all of the alloy hop ups is nice, and very solid.

 

Motors run well. ESC's cold, motors warming a little - but that was static, running light - should be fine.

Nice of Tamiya to supply a spare set of gearbox gears - never had a problem with the same set up in the Juggernaut so don't expect any issues and all is nicely greased - Delrin or not - metal gears in the diff and axles - standard spec.

 

Nice project just in time for Spring / Summer.

Al.

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Very nice build im no fan of tamiya but this is looking sweet what is it based on when I think tamiya truck its the clod or lunch box stuff that comes to mind this looks much better. What motors are they cc3800 im nearly ready to fire one of those up I can't wait. Two should be madd. Im interested to see these rod ends definitely something my box could do with especially if there alloy. I think my revo uses m4 rods and m3 balls so if you have links ide be greatful.

Ill see what my xs uses as ide like to mayb make up my own links for that, I found some titanium rods on ebay in various sizes at good prices I think those with alloy ends would look and work great.

I love all of your monster trucks you go one step beyond thats awesome.

5* vote.

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Thanks very much.

It's an 'old man' thing possibly, 'though I've often been accused of OCD in the various labs where I've worked!

 

I've got a couple of sets of these to raise the rod ends: http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/231102744900?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649

They're an option anyway, in case I do have the flexibility, but I think they'll be necessary.

 

The famous rod ends: http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/281099916425?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649

 

Motors: http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/390673481828?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649

Twin MM Pro / 1410 3800kV 4 pole combos.

 

The so-called option heatsink motor mount plate limits the mounting position slot a little more than usual. Would possibly be able to fit 20t pinions with the non-finned, but have had to fit 18t pinions. The standard is 19t on the silver can 540's, which send it to perhaps late 20's mph - perhaps 26 or so.

All this is theoretical .... so I should be good for about 40+ mph with these motors on 3S - more than enough.

I don't reckon it'll have anything like the stability of the Maxx or Ram - purpose built non-scale monster trucks with bashing, jumping, etc., in mind.

 

The Tamiya is more scale.

I've got Associated servo savers - off the MGT like you fit as an option on the LST / LST2 as they have stronger springs, and I've fitted these to the servo savers: http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/130834990413?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649

Perfect fit.

 

Must admit I like the alloy and carbon look.

Also have to admit I might have made a mistake in getting the alloy wheels - identical looking Delrin ones were an option - at the same price. Would / should be substantially lighter.

This will give it some considerable inertia off the line, but shouldn't be a problem - similar wheels on the Juggernaut don't seem to pose too much of a problem, and it'll keep the CofG lower.

 

The transmission is common for Juggernaut / Juggernaut 2 / Bullhead / Dump Truck / TXT-1 (as well as this TXT-2) so its well proven.

 

Intrigued why I got 2 sets of gears (one spare set) - never had a problems with the Juggernaut running twin modified 550 brushed motors.

Thanks for the comments.

I'm getting a little anxious - need to get it running - it just looks too good!

 

Al.

Edited by atom3624
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One thing I've noticed is that the 'front' bumper sticks out a fair bit, the rear is right.

This front / rear bumper set is SOLID and alloy, but has caused some hassle.

 

I've been considering cutting back the front, but I'm waiting on the final assembly, to confirm which way it will go.

 

Looking at the original Tamiya plans, and parts, the mounts for the fronts ARE shorter than the rears!!

 

It is doable, so I'm going to give it a go, and get the front bumpers flush with the body - looks better.

Sticking out does permit more 'protection' I'll admit!

Al.

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Thanks ill get a set of those blue rod ends but the ball bit is m3 isnt it? I could use them on my revo turn bukles I think. As for carbon fibre I just got a sheet from these and im very happy with it I just wish I had something that cut it nice. Im defo goimg to buy more of this. I thought ide share as I bet you could think of uses it feels much better than the other stuff Ive had. It might go on my xs roof to stop gravel rash. Im always open to diy materials thats why I love rc making stuff lol I hope to be on yours and others level by time im 30 with luck and guidance. Plus good tools which I dont have lol.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/221358718059?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1497.l2649

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Nice find.

I find it drills quite easily, but to cut, its very hard.

The main hazard with CF of course is the fine dust generated.

My lungs have seen plenty of nasties, but I have to think of the 2 lads.

If you do cut, check this out but I believe most 'reseal' using superglue.

 

Yes, they SAY the balls are M3. I've not received them yet, so here's hoping.

I shall confirm receipt.

Al.

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Thanks ill get a set of those blue rod ends but the ball bit is m3 isnt it? I could use them on my revo turn bukles I think. As for carbon fibre I just got a sheet from these and im very happy with it I just wish I had something that cut it nice. Im defo goimg to buy more of this. I thought ide share as I bet you could think of uses it feels much better than the other stuff Ive had. It might go on my xs roof to stop gravel rash. Im always open to diy materials thats why I love rc making stuff lol I hope to be on yours and others level by time im 30 with luck and guidance. Plus good tools which I dont have lol.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/221358718059?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1497.l2649

 

M4 rod ends with M3 bolt holes arrived today. Decent looking quality - photos installed tomorrow, hopefully.

 

I found the shafts were longer than appeared to be indicated, so I had to hacksaw off approx. 2 mm off the end to permit the correct link lengths.

As I'd already thread-locked the M4 headless bolts into the links, I had a few problems as I'd left too much thread showing for the trimmed rod ends and had to be a little brutal.

I'll need to sand and spray a couple of links but other than that, all's fine.

 

Looks like final build can take place SOON!!

Al.

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