Midnight Lowrider (in parts bin)
Status: Extra info
Date: 11-Jul-2006
Comments: 4
This was an idea I had before I bought the Chrome pumpkin. I picked up an NIB M04L BMW M Roadster from Ebay, knocked up the chassis, and then promptly cut it in half. Using super-glued chassis rails as a template, I was able to make new chassis rails from aluminium, as seen in the pics below. It's now just the right length to fit the Pumpkin shell.
Also using dark chrome rims in the pics, the tyres don't look nearly as good as the stock Tamiya ones but hopefully should be fun for some donuts on smooth tarmac. I don't want to use it too much, just keep it as an occasional runner and shelf queen.
More updates to follow as I finish off the build - next I need to adjust the chassis rails (one is slightly longer than the other), finish filing off the steering arm cutouts, and mount a base plate to hang the radio gear and battery. I also need to fit up some good body posts, preferably using the stock body holes, at the front of the chassis.
UPDATE August 2007: I finished this a month ago but have only just got around to taking pics and posting updates.
The finished product now uses HPI vintage wheels and tyres - standard (26mm) offset up front and wide (31mm) offset on the rear. The front tyres turn cleanly in the arches and don't stick out too far.
There are two options for battery mounting - Option 1 is tied atop the chassis with battery tape, for normal running - handling is a little top-heavy due to the weight of the ally chassis and top-mounted battery. Option 2 is strapped to the rear uprights with elastic bands - this gives a rear-heavy car with instant wheelies on demand, just like the monster pumpkin. The battery can't be slung sideways like a normal M04 because the pumpkin shell isn't as wide as a stick pack.
I'm not as pleased with the overall result as I thought I'd be, possibly a day spent tidying up the finished product would help. If I was to make this again I'd try to get hold of some carbon sheet to make the chassis and look at running a TTG battery or saddle pack to improve the handling.
Future plans for this model are to trim the unused roll bar mounts flush with the rear bed, then cover the bed with rubber matting to cover up all the holes.
Finished Truck
Another Shot
Finished chassis with electronics mounted
Early chassis mock-up
Early test-fit. 1:10 wheels too large to turn
If you liked those pictures, you should see these...
Zombie in a Midnight Pumpkin
Comments
Try mounting the steering servo on top of the chassis rails and then run the batter inside long ways between the chassis rails. Nice chassis you have come up with.
Mad Ax
Nice idea. I'll check it later, but I don't think there's enough room for the battery between the chassis rails (I think it's too short) and I think the servo above the rails will interfere with the shell.
Worth a look, tho... Reminds me, I must update this as I traded my pumpkin for a plane and now have the lexan shell on it.
tuff bug
Oh bother! I didnt realise it would be such a big job to use a mo4 on a Pumpkin /this looks great love the hpi wheels!
Mad Ax
Yes, sadly it's more work than it looks, for a variety of reasons. The chassis is currently being rebuilt into something special, but it's taking a very long time to finish!
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