Finally getting around to building a clod

[GoMachV]

I’ve wanted a clod for a long time. It’s just never been a priority. Figured it was time to build one.

For the first one, stock gearboxes with “bolt on” parts. Later I’ll build a fancy one. I am a huge fan of cantilever especially with proper geometry so there is a progressive rate to it. Even though the shocks are mounted identically on this first one (just on different planes), I don’t like the aesthetics. I’ll probably try them upright next. The geometry itself seems good and I’m happy with the articulation.

Once the suspension is sorted, I will work on the rest. It will have a bolt on front and rear “clip” for the stock hard body or you can leave them off for Lexan use. Also I am planning to add a cage as imo with the body off they just look amazing.

Lots more to come, this is just the start!

[LoboNYC]

Looks like your off to a very nice start.

Always loved monster trucks like the Clod buster and the USA-1. They are fun to watch especially when you have several of them on a starting line and watching the dust kick up when they all take off at the sound of the start.

Your Clod already has a ton of flex so that is definitely a great start. Totally understand converting the shocks to vertical setup and would probably do the same in your shoes.

can wait to see more progress!

[GoMachV]

Well, I played around with vertical shocks and it ended up taking up much more space and was in the way of the battery unless mounted longitudinal (which is always and option however it’s hard to access). I decided to just optimize the lay down shocks. I cut the rockers from delrin and modified the shock mounting layout for more adjustability. The battery box was dropped quite a bit, and a shelf added above it for the esc and receiver. I flipped the knuckles to fix the reversed Ackerman and made a servo mount for the axle brace. It’s a tight fit but nothing hits or rubs at full articulation. I have the Brood 17T clod motors coming as well as a pair of ecopower servos. It appears the 880 speed control that comes with the kit is capable of handling the motors so we will see lol.

While I wait, body mounts are up next. It needs to be able to support a stock body, a bullhead body, as well as Lexan bodies.

[GoMachV]

And now with a cage that fits the hard body

[Dadio]

That's nice , strange not seeing the shocks , looks sort of bare but very tidy .

[GoMachV]

Last one, waiting for motors and servos but I think the cage is good to go. Added a basic dash and corrected the fit with the smoked windshield installed. It’s now sitting in the lowest position and towards the back a bit, but it’s adjustable. It can also be left off and you can run a Lexan body. Sheds like a full pound or more

Also designed up some quick and easy wheel inserts. I can afford the nice wheels so these will do for now.

[BillKrueger]

Good looking truck! Be careful! Clods can get addicting... I should know. Haha. Next thing you know you'll have 12 and a bunch of clod related websites and maybe even a RC10 one. Haha

[klavy69]

Also designed up some quick and easy wheel inserts. I can afford the nice wheels so these will do for now.

Didn't expect to see you around these parts Jeff!. LOL. Truck looks great but those wheel inserts are fricken awesome. really dress these wheels up. You gonna offer up these on your site?

Todd

[GoMachV]

Website will be updating in the next couple months. These will be there. A couple styles are on eBay.

[moto-steve]

Jeff has a clod???? Lol it's about damn time, you will learn the term BASH and CRUSH. Us clod guys created the term bash and crawl. I still have my original, plus 2 originals in box. You won't believe I still use a futaba s148 for steering, works best while moving. Not sure why everyone wants to spend well over $100.00 bucks on a steering servo for lots of rc vehicles?? Enjoy Buddy, they are fun.

[SFC K]

Awesome build Jeff! Love the wheel inserts as well and will keep an eye out for them.

[GoMachV]

I’ve listed some on eBay already, but if anyone needs em it’s always best to reach out directly and save some dough When I find the time I’ll list some other styles I have done but haven’t had time to market yet

[GoMachV]

I also forgot to show the motor mount I’m working on. It’s down to finding proper hardware and the long flat head screws with nuts are just ugly to me. Functionally it works great I just have issue with the aesthetics. The clear cover makes mesh a breeze on these stock cases.

[juicedcoupe]

I also forgot to show the motor mount I’m working on. It’s down to finding proper hardware and the long flat head screws with nuts are just ugly to me. Functionally it works great I just have issue with the aesthetics. The clear cover makes mesh a breeze on these stock cases.

Do you have to be able to loosen it? Or is it locked in place on installation?

If its locked, maybe consider some type of threaded insert in the clear cover.

[GoMachV]

An insert would work- however after considering how that would go I almost think I could just pocket out for the nut to recess into the cover basically doing the same thing and retaining a locking fastener which I prefer. That would clean it up. Thanks!

Edit- I forgot- there are thick bosses that protrude from the case which is why there is a washer. Might be tricky to pocket a nut with that blown out hole