getting started

[schlimi]

Hi Everyone!

I ordered a King Hauler to build, but this is completely new for me. I built models growing up, but have never built an r/c of this detail, yet alone customized one! I know it will be a HUGE project, seeing as I will try to change a lot, and I had some questions. The first on my list was building an extended frame. What are some spec's on what material is used, size-wise? Where to purchase? How would I go about drilling the holes? Would I use the original frame as a template to start out?

I also want to do bodywork, also something that will also be a first for me! I have seen in-progress photos of the shaved headlights and turn signals, but what, and how, is used? I'm looking at extending the front wheel arches also, and chopping the top, again these will be first attempts. Has anyone done these successfully before, if so, how?? I think I have an idea, just don't know if it will work!! I was "talking" to someone in France, but the language barrier is proving difficult!!

Basically, if anyone is good at this type of work, adding on to the existing plastic body, stretching the frame, and building custom parts (fenders!!), I'd appreciate any "how-to" s so I know what I'm getting into!! SORRY so long!!! ;-)

Best Wishes to all for the New Year!!

Mike

[smoke stacks]

I am a first timer like you. Check out my pictures of my ford aeromax. I built all of the parts behind the cab out of styrene plastic and model glue. Attaching things to the existing body shell is a cool thing to do. I have seen uses of automotive body fillers to smooth and shape. The foundation part of cutting and redoing existing body parts i am still working on myself. I like to come up radical ideas too just have tough time putting them to reality. Try on other things first because fixing a problem is harder than you think also discouraging.

[mrfish55]

I got my custom frame rails from www.joescustomrctruckshop.com he will cut them to whatever length you want, you will also need a 3mm tap with drill bit for the threaded holes in the frame, I used my original rails to mark the location on the new rails, For mods on the body (light bucket shaving) use ordinary sewing thread and use it as a saw to cut the parts off (wrap a lenth between your fingers and pull it back and forth, works great and with a little practice gives a nice clean cut and is much safer than using a saw or knife) here is a link to my latest http://www.scale4x4rc.org/forums/showthread.php?t=26611 good luck with the build.

[Pete359]

If you want the best help on your project, you really want to become a member at www.mwmodeltrucking.com

Hope to see you there with us:welcomeani:

[schlimi]

Thank you for the replies! mrfish55, would you recommend going through joescustomrctruckshop for the frame rails as opposed to buying the materials? Is all he's doing is cutting to desired length?? Or more??