scratch build

[blitzer621]

I would like to build an electric monster truck from the ground up.
I'd like to go 1/8 scale, chevy style body,high lift, large tires.

Problem is I don't have a clue where to or how to begin, and the LHS in my area can only order misc. parts from the internet.
I'm sure I can do that too.

I'm looking to build a fast durible truck that can handle jumps and maybe even do a little mud running, 4+ ground clearance, kind of looking to make it 4w drive but not needed.

I would like to make this a project for the summer for me and my 4 boys.

Here is a list of pics(sorry for the invasion on your pics) that inspired me in the Show Us What You Drive forum
My T-Maxx 3.3 scratch built
Savage X
My Boys (scroll down to monster truck)


Hope this helps to better understand what I want to do.

How and where should I start?

[looker2756]

You can build anything. First off you must have a plan on what to build. Attempting to mix & match parts from different vehicles to make an Awesome one. I'm sure this could be done. But would take Much time to complete. Along with tons of option parts to choose from when building. Best option is to pick a truck. My pick was the T-Maxx. Start getting Maxx parts & start building it with the ones you've chosen. There are very few completely scratch built vehicles put together. Many of which are done by guys like myself. Who have been into this hobby for many years & have lots of pieces to chose from. I have probably 4 complete maxxes in parts, not to mention the nearly 10 other vehicles I could steal parts from. Still best bet is to chose a platform first. The T-Maxx & Savage will be some of the easiest to get tons of cheap parts for. I have built many of each of these & enjoy making them all different !!

Best of luck, It's very cool & rewarding to build it yourself !!

[OldSchoolRC]

i agree - a T-maxx or E-maxx chassis can built in into nearly anything due to its modular chassis components and vast aftermarket/used parts support. as an example, i have run my truck stock and had a blast, then changed it into a big block monster, then a truggy conversion, then back to a monster again, then a 2wd wheelie machine...and i am currently using it to custom build a big dodge ram using a mix and match of parts i picked up along the way.

As far as a start if you use ebay you can start buying up parts or even better, look for a rolling chassis that you can raid 90% of what you need from. looker2756 is right in that it very much helps to have a base platform to start from - building from the ground up is tough, and till you track down all the odds and ends, you'll probably pay more in the long run. If you are using only your LHS, i would say pick up a T or E-maxx, and have a blast! run it and see what you like and don't like and start tinkering with ways to improve it.

[roadrunnr43]

so.. was this the start of the monster mopar?

[pedeboi364]

hmmm, i'd like to see a monster 'pede build... probably close to 1/8 scale cuz u can use FLM extended arms and chassis...