Build proper - step 1

OK - here we go with the final build. I've assembled the axles, the lower links and the centre lower section. The holes in this for the links were oversize to begin with (see below) so these were packed out with slices of PVC plastic tubing. One thickness was sufficient in the underside holes, and two (different thicknesses) were required in the lower side holes. I used the conical washers as recommended, and everything screwed down nice and tightly. The heads of the screws gained a washer each, and M3 nylock nuts finished off this part of the assembly.


Packing for the batteries has been made from 1/4 inch closed cell foam, which actually used to be the base of a mouse-mat. Holes were punched to accomodate all the protruding screwheads and washers/nuts, this was done by filing a taper on the end of a handy off-cut piece of stainless tube and just pressing through by hand against a wooden block.


The batteries were taped together to form a '^' shape. For the time being they will be permanent fixtures in the truck, rather than being removable for charging. These ones are only 1900mAh each, and will be upgraded to about twice this capacity later (when funds allow).


The electrickery comes next. This is going to be easier with the chassis partly assembled, as it is now. Wire lengths need to be sorted, and I want to try an arrangement whereby both motor series and parallel wiring can be arranged to suit running conditions. (The plastic twin wall mount for the Tx and ESC can be better seen in this shot.)