Builder's Notes: FJ Series from The Hardbody Crawler Co

[TheBakedBeans]

A few more pics

 

[Zenith the Zero]

What links are you using for this particular rig? They look like parts for the scx24 platform, but I know those RC4WD axles is M2 hardware for the links. Did you just drill out the balls to size?

I’m looking for something that’s better compatible with those axles than what cheap shxt I’ve got right now.


Edit: I’m sorry, I totally forgot to mention how awesome this thing is going to be once you’re done with it. All your previous builds have been killer. Looking forward to the updates here.

 

[TheBakedBeans]

What links are you using for this particular rig? They look like parts for the scx24 platform, but I know those RC4WD axles is M2 hardware for the links. Did you just drill out the balls to size?

I’m looking for something that’s better compatible with those axles than what cheap shxt I’ve got right now.


Edit: I’m sorry, I totally forgot to mention how awesome this thing is going to be once you’re done with it. All your previous builds have been killer. Looking forward to the updates here.

Thanks... much appreciated!

Yes, is a scratch build kit bash. You are also correct, I had to drill out the ball heads, but that wasn't a big deal. I'm using Amazon Injora links. The version with the plastic ends and removable ball heads. I also chose these links because I can technically adjust the length up to 1/4 inch by just moving the ends down the threads... if that makes sense.

 

[CoolHandLukeZ]

It's coming along nicely!

I saw someone on Reddit replace the screws that secure the top of the body to the bottom with magnets which makes it easy to take the top off. Not sure what your plan is in the end but it might be something to consider. I am going to take mine apart so I can do that with my first build. Should be getting my replacement window for the rear tomorrow so it will be a good time to try it out!

 

[TheBakedBeans]

Ladies and … uh, er, mostly gentlemen… I have a ROLLING CHASSIS!

So far this has NOT been easy! It has nothing to do with the body and everything to do with my decision to mix RC4WD with Axial. Different size screws, different servo mounting, different all together…. I had challenge after challenge. And I drove myself MAD searching for solution after solution. I think all the hard stuff is done (fingers crossed) and hey, here I am with one good looking bastard of a rolling chassis.

I also took the time to mount up the bottom half of the body. I’ve adjusted everything so the wheelbase is now lined up and I have great articulation. It’s not a hardcore crawler, but I bet it performs well enough.

Now still need to drop in the electronics, tune the weight distribution, and get to work on the body.

 

[B-MOW71]

Looks so good with the body on!"thumbsup" It's hard to believe it's a tiny scale rig! With all of the details, it looks much bigger than it really is!

 

[TheBakedBeans]

Looks so good with the body on!"thumbsup" It's hard to believe it's a tiny scale rig! With all of the details, it looks much bigger than it really is!

Thank you sir! The RC4WD axles have been a real headache, but it’s the first time I’ve worked with them. But they look sooo good!

 

[TheBakedBeans]

More progress… I’ve dipped my electronics and made a tray. Things are moving along…

 

[2471:24]

Nice work as always! I didn’t know about these axles. With those on, the speed of the rig will probably increase, as those are not axles with worm gears. I put fcx24 axles on my scx24, and they fit ok. But the links are twisted. Waiting for the driving videos.

B-MOW71 mentioned that it’s hard to believe that this is so tiny. I totally agree.

 

[Zenith the Zero]

This thing is so incredible. It looks like a 1/10 scale build, you can’t even tell it’s smaller.

The RC4WD axles have been a real headache,… But they look sooo good!

I have struggled with them on my project. When I started the brackets weren’t even available. I have since purchased them since they became available.

I’m curious what you did for the front suspension mounting on the axle, since the factory location is not very compatible with coilovers.

 

[Levi]

This body is a great find. A friend of mine showed me this and been thinking about getting both tan and blue. Keep the blue one as is and rhe tan a different color, maybe be brave and try weathering it. But again thinking about it.

 

[TheBakedBeans]

Nice work as always! I didn’t know about these axles. With those on, the speed of the rig will probably increase, as those are not axles with worm gears. I put fcx24 axles on my scx24, and they fit ok. But the links are twisted. Waiting for the driving videos.

"thumbsup" It does seem a little faster. It’ll will also roll if the drag break isn’t set.

B-MOW71 mentioned that it’s hard to believe that this is so tiny. I totally agree.

Lol, the chassis has been a real headache. But I’ve got it all sorted out… except the turn radius of those damn axles. Since I received my replacement set, I might fiddle with the original.

 

[TheBakedBeans]

Thanks. It's amazing what you can learn on YT. Can't wait to see what BakeBeans does with his FJ.

Your WPL is super nice! And yes, using just a little flat will set this model straight.

 

[TheBakedBeans]

It's coming along nicely!

I saw someone on Reddit replace the screws that secure the top of the body to the bottom with magnets which makes it easy to take the top off. Not sure what your plan is in the end but it might be something to consider. I am going to take mine apart so I can do that with my first build. Should be getting my replacement window for the rear tomorrow so it will be a good time to try it out!

I didn’t magnetize the roof on this first build because I have some other plans. But I am missing a window :roll: , no big deal. I’m sure Gus will hook me up.

 

[TheBakedBeans]

This thing is so incredible. It looks like a 1/10 scale build, you can’t even tell it’s smaller.

I’m curious what you did for the front suspension mounting on the axle, since the factory location is not very compatible with coilovers.

Gracias Amigo! "thumbsup"

Good question… I found out the hard way that there is very little clearance in front and behind the knuckle. I had to give up my oil shocks and went with Injora double barrels. Other than a little “bounce in the step”, they do perform better.

Right now everything is jiving right EXCEPT that damn turn radius

 

[TheBakedBeans]

I’m very close… here is a teaser from earlier this week.

 

[TheBakedBeans]

Well, I’m all wrapped up. I’ll update this thread with the parts links, gather all the photos and get them posted, and whip up one of my typical build videos. This was a super fun kit!

http://https://www.instagram.com/reel/CnwvJ-VImbG/?igshid=Zjc2ZTc4Nzk=

 

[Ynad]

Outstanding! Sooo, perfect!
That diamond plate looks great and in scale. I was only able to find 1/10 scale, claimed 1/18 but not. Where did you get that scale diamond plate?

Sent from my LG-V521 using Tapatalk

 

[B-MOW71]

Perfection!"thumbsup" Excellent job on the build and the attention to the scale details!

Looking forward to seeing more updates in the future!

 

[Zenith the Zero]

Incredible build. As B-Mow said, the details are awesome, like the Land Cruiser badges and stickers. I’ve always liked how you set up all the shop stuff in your build photos, too. Was the hi-lift jack part of one of those shop sets?