clod axles & steering linkages

[dee201]

Ok,

so im new here, as you can probably tell by the question that im about to ask (but not completely new to RC). Im keen as custard to build me up an RC Crawler. Ive been looking alllll over the net looking at various desigs and ideas. Also different types of "off the shelf" chassis' to get an idea of whats involved.

So obviously first off i need to get me some diffs. My question is: when buying these diffs, is a stock clod buster front and rear wheel steer, or just front? Because if it is just front, does this mean i have to buy 2 x front diffs so i can link up my steering linkages for rear wheel steer? Or do i buy the diffs, and 2 extra steering knuckle link things for the back?
Also, how exactly do you go about turning the axle ends around so that your steering linkages can connect to the diff on the inside? just by swapping front and back diffs?

I have another question. (may as well get em all out while im here)...
On the front page of RC Crawler there is a tutorial on how to make simple suspension linkages, using rigid aluminium tubing, threaded rod and a wiring tool. Now, am i missing something here, because the article doesnt seem all that complete.. it just says assemble. How?

And 1 more, ive looked at the stick type chassis and also the ones that MonsterTruckParts australia make and it seems that some have only lower supension linkages while alot of crawlers have the typical 4 link (upper and lower).

Long post i know, but im confused... :?

 

[WRMorrison]

First off, welcome to the site!

Clod axels are the exact same part, front and rear. So, yes, it has front and rear steering. To get BTA (behind the axle) steering, you simply install the outer hubs backwards and put the steering links on.

As for the different chassis designs...

I'm not entirely familiar with MTPA chassis'. A friend of mine has their Mach I chassis, and he's also the same person who designed the "stick" chassis. I've tried them both, and while they are both great choices, the stick will concquer some obstacles that the Mach I can't.

It's all a matter of personal preferrence, and what you plan to do with it. Use the search function at the top of the page and you will find info on just about anything on here, as it has probably already been discussed.

Good luck!