DT-02 in 2024. Yes or no?

[chris.alex 1050]

On 5/18/2024 at 2:19 PM, No Slack said:

Use a brace in the front shocktower and it is much stronger. 

Fully agree, I'm using one from Carson if I remember correctly. 

[Nicadraus 6391]

The DT-02 is a tempting project car. Here's an aluminum chassis I found for the DT-02. 

Blue version

Also CF shock towers

Rear stabilizer

Upper swing arm axis holder. Front and rear.

Would be nice to see these parts built-in altogether.

[El Gecko 1426]

DT-02 in 2024? I say yes!

[Mad Ax 10028]

It's funny, it's nearly 20 years since these have been around, and they're still for sale.  I remember somebody was running one at my first ever Tamiya bash, and I figured it would be close on my purchase list.  And yet, I still don't have one!

I love the 90s-esque body shape of the Sand Viper, more so the Desert Gator - in fact the Gator has a real Astute look about it.  And for me it's the perfect blend between a simple basher buggy and a competitive design - although it's more basic, it's got all the design elements of a late-90s RWD race buggy.  The oil shocks, adjustable arms and bearings make it a steal compared to other entry-level 2wd offerings.

Prices aren't quite so low here in the UK, but I'm still tempted as I really want to have the ownership experience one day, and I don't know how much longer these will be on the shelves.

[Wheel_Nut 365]

How is the parts availability for common DT-02 breakages such as the c hubs, and the suspension arms?

[chris.alex 1050]

22 minutes ago, Wheel_Nut said:

How is the parts availability for common DT-02 breakages such as the c hubs, and the suspension arms?

My impression is that all parts of the DT02 chassis are available. This is also due to the fact that most parts are shared with the DT03 chassis. However, there was a time when the chassis tub itself was difficult to find. 

[skom25 1737]

54 minutes ago, Wheel_Nut said:

How is the parts availability for common DT-02 breakages such as the c hubs, and the suspension arms?

Suspensiom arms and gearbox are exactly the same as in DT-03, so availibility should not be an issue.