Modern 2wd bashing buggies

[duckhead]

I used to do stuff like that. Now, I just build more shelves. It's less stressful to not have to choose.

I support and encourage this thought process!

[XLR8]

I’m aware that the OP bought a Kyosho Turbo Scorpion but I happened upon this Amp Desert Buggy from ECX and thought I’d add it to this thread since it seems to fit well with our discussion. I didn’t know this car existed until a couple days ago.

I’ve done a little research and apparently this or a similar buggy and a truck variation have been available for about a dozen years. It appears to be standard hobby grade RC so it’s likely to be upgradable. Replacement parts are available through parent company Horizon Hobby. Looking at the exploded view and parts list, it appears to include ball bearings, oil filled shocks (plastic), a gear diff, slipper clutch, hex wheel adaptors on all four corners (12mm?). In fact, the chassis design appears to have been inspired by the RC10 B4 although I don’t know if any parts will interchange. The buggy also uses telescoping universal drive shafts similar to Traxxas. It’s a fully assembled RTR and comes with a 2.4GHz 2-channel radio, a combo Rx/ESC, an 1800mah nimh battery and wall charger, and a 20t brushed 540 motor. All for around $160.

I have no experience with this buggy or any of its predecessors but I'm always looking for a bargain. If anyone here has owned one of these, please chime in and tell us if this is junk.

[juicedcoupe]

My son and nephew have the Amp trucks, and I have a 2WD Torment (same basic platform, except SC).

The RTR electronics are so-so and the steering needs some help.

The front steering blocks use short shoulder screws that are prone to stripping (RPM's aren't any better). I went directly to Hot Racing aluminum versions on mine. But I think some short helicoils and CA glue would work decent as well.

The factory bellcrank/servo saver setup has a ton of slop in it. A small zip tie helps a lot but the RPM replacement is the ultimate solution. Just be sure to use a decent metal gear servo.

[juicedcoupe]

Delete.

Hit quote instead of edit.