1:20 Scale Class 5 Baja Bug

[R.Billy Rob]

Ok, this one has me excited! I can't wait to get on this build! it's something I've been wanting to build for awhile now. I've just been waiting for the right kit. But last week I finally scored an Entex bug kit. the price was just right! Anyway, for this one it'll have a Redcat rear end, and a micro T front end. I plan to run a Losi transmission, and a brushless motor. Not quite sure what I'll use for an ESC, or TX/RX. Tonight I did some rough body work so I could do a little mock-up. I have to say, it looks pretty darn good to me! Here's a mock-up pic for y'all!

[Slambaam]

where did u get this body?

[R.Billy Rob]

I've been waiting and lurking around eBay for months searching for one of these bodies in 1/20 scale. I finally found one that was partially built for around $30, but there is one on eBay right now with a starting bid of $40 and no bids. It's complete, and it hasn't been started. If I could afford it I would buy that one too, but now I need parts for this one.

[Hammer!]

i can see why you are excited! looks like fun!

[R.Billy Rob]

I've been trying to get everything together to ship off to Danally so he can see about making some rims for the front, but life keeps getting in the way! I'm pretty sure I'll get it together by the weekend though. The sooner I can get it to Dan, the sooner he can get it back to me, and I can start building! In the meantime, I'm including a pic of the front suspension. I'm going to use most of the micro-T chassis that you see, only trimming what I don't need. It already has all the suspension configured, shocks mounted, and steering with a servo box! Why change it if you don't need to!

[R.Billy Rob]

By the way, I already know that this will work. I used this same setup in a 1:20 Camaro build I did.

[Slambaam]

Well I just bought one of these models. Expect some competition! Haha!

[R.Billy Rob]

I gladly welcome some competition! I can't wait to see what you do with yours!

[Slambaam]

My vdub came in! These shells are so cool!!!

[R.Billy Rob]

I definitely want to get another! I have another build in mind if I can find another one of these. I would love to build an open wheel, straight -axle bug hot rod.

[R.Billy Rob]

Got word today that Danally finished my one-off rims! I decided to go for a full set of kustom wheels. I had to try to match track width front to rear, the rear being wider. So custom offset for the rear, and full one-off's for the front. I can't wait to see them in person! I always love getting kustom parts! On a side note, I'm glad to see Slambaam's build going! It's cool to see two of these somewhat rare bugs get built side-by-side! I'll post more picks when I get my rims in. For now, here's one that shows the wider rear axle.

[Slambaam]

Christ I like ur fenders better then mine! I hope once I widen mine I'll change my mind! Are the front wheels gonna be narrow?

[R.Billy Rob]

As for wheels, I used a set of Danally sct-6's as reference, then had him narrow the offset on the rear to match the front. And the front wheels had to be custom made to fit on the micro-T axle shafts. The micro-T axles are stationary, so the wheels themselves have bearings in them! As for width, they are just stock. I'm planning to run the Rok-Lox. I live up in the hills, so they will do better in the dirt. If I find myself able to get to the beach more than once or twice a year, I might make a second set with paddles and skinny's! here's a pic I used for inspiration for fenders:

[R.Billy Rob]

Here's another inspiration pic. I really love this one.

[R.Billy Rob]

I got a package from Danally today when I got home! Dan, you really outdid yourself! You rock! The rims turned out exactly how I wanted. Did I also mention I got some Redcat axles with full bearings, and Losi ball studs from him? Now we're ready for some speed! Maybe I will get some time to spend on this tomorrow night. Then I'll have some pics of them with tires mounted. For now, here's a teaser shot of the new rims. By the way, does anyone notice the new rim design?

[DANALLY]

You are welcome...It was fun making them!

It looks like the rig should come together pretty fast now! I will keep an eye out for progress.

I have a bug body to build into a rig but I have "been there - done that" on the faster micro's and I will leave those to you guys. I'm a crawler guy thru and thru

[Slambaam]

Any updates buddy?

[R.Billy Rob]

I've been spending what little free time I have lately putting paint on another build. But tonight, I finally got back to this one. Didn't get much done though. I was only able to mount my wheels and tires, and lockout my new bearing-equipped rear end. I simply used Losi C hubs for now, but I might change that later. I hope to start fabricating soon, and I should have some progress by this weekend. I didn't take any pics except for one to be able to compare the new track width. Here it is for you:

[R.Billy Rob]

Time to get back to work!

[R.Billy Rob]

So I didn't get a whole lot done tonight, but it is forward progress! I was able to tear apart the previously assembled interior down to the floor pan. That's what you get when you purchase a partially assembled kit. I also was able to make a mounting plate for my front end, which is actually a big step. as soon as I get the front end aligned, and mounted, then it's on to the rear!