Buggy Late Model Conversion - Tips/Tricks/Setup

[paco62]

I am converting a Losi XXX Kinwald 2WD buggy into a Dirt Oval, Late Model Racer. I wanted to start this thread for anyone "in the know" on this process, or for those of us that are flinging wrenches and pulling hair to figure it out... :D

I am going to use a Speedy's Racing Conversion kit for the front bumper and shock towers and a McAllister Vegas Racing Body (one that is listed on DODC Rules). I spoke with Ray at Speedy's Racing Parts and he said basically all you need is his conversion kit, a body, some touring car shocks (Losi or Associate are supposed to work well) and wheels. I haven't received my kit and am still gathering parts, but will keep you posted as I break some things and put other things together.

Here are the links to Speedy's and McAllister Racing Bodies(also sold on the speedy site). I am not endorsing them, but I did purchase these parts after reading numerous posts that attested to their quality.

http://www.mcallisterracing.com/racing/

http://www.speedysracingparts.com/

Good luck and Godspeed... :checkeredflag:

[ed gaines]

These or suppose to be legal,I may try one out in LM.
http://www.dirtlatemodelrcbodies.com/index.htm

Which mcallister body you going with?,The factory works concord is nice also.

[overlandovalracer]

Please keep in mind, (in reference to DODC latemodel class) that buggy onversions are perfectly legal & excellent for those who already own a buggy (typically less costly too). DODC rules allow for oval specific chassis such as those made by GFRP/Hyperdrive,Dynotech,Putnam, & Customworks. The main difference is the ability to put more weight on the left side (potentially a bigger asset for foam tire tracks?!...) The buggy conversions do actually work very well on loose dirt & packed dirt/clay, but it all comes back to the dreaded tire debate, foam tire track= advantage purpose built oval car, Loose dirt= both should be more evenly matched. I'm not trying to complicate thngs or confuse people anymore than they are, I'm just wanting those in our area that might not be as familiar w/dirt oval to make the right decision for themselves.

For those reading this, & were thinking about getting into oval, keep in mind that you can find some great deals in the classified section here on Dirt Oval. With all that being said, we won't know for a fact what the "hot" setup will be till we get some laps in.

[sps3172]

Please keep in mind, (in reference to DODC latemodel class) that buggy onversions are perfectly legal & excellent for those who already own a buggy (typically less costly too). DODC rules allow for oval specific chassis such as those made by GFRP/Hyperdrive,Dynotech,Putnam, & Customworks. The main difference is the ability to put more weight on the left side (potentially a bigger asset for foam tire tracks?!...) The buggy conversions do actually work very well on loose dirt & packed dirt/clay, but it all comes back to the dreaded tire debate, foam tire track= advantage purpose built oval car, Loose dirt= both should be more evenly matched. I'm not trying to complicate thngs or confuse people anymore than they are, I'm just wanting those in our area that might not be as familiar w/dirt oval to make the right decision for themselves.

For those reading this, & were thinking about getting into oval, keep in mind that you can find some great deals in the classified section here on Dirt Oval. With all that being said, we won't know for a fact what the "hot" setup will be till we get some laps in.

I know the speedy's converstion keeps the battery in the middle of the car but I thought I saw some buggy converstions offered that had a LTO (Left Turn Only) type chassis as well.

[ed gaines]

[QUOTE=sps3172;289440]I know the speedy's converstion keeps the battery in the middle of the car but I thought I saw some buggy converstions offered that had a LTO (Left Turn Only) type chassis as well.[/QUOTE


There Is but he never answer his emails:(

http://www.dirtoval.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=17628&d=1205681031

[overlandovalracer]

Figure $200.00 for the kit Ed has the link to, + $???.?? for a buggy= same $ as buying a good used LTO/Dirt Oval specific car!

[ed gaines]

I was wanting to try one,But never could get a response from him.So its CW for me:)

[sps3172]

Figure $200.00 for the kit Ed has the link to, + $???.?? for a buggy= same $ as buying a good used LTO/Dirt Oval specific car!

I think the point of the converstion kit is for the guy that already HAS the buggy.....it wouldn't figure in the cost.

[sps3172]

I bet there's lots of these laying around in the off road guy's basement.

I spoke the the guys at Kranzel's RC (look in the links section of this site). They have a conversion for the b2/b3 that is a top level race chassis (LTO chassis, etc). The kit is around $275. This car should be competitive in any class on any tire with CW etc.

[ed gaines]

AE has stopped production of the B2/B3 Line,That was one other reason I did not go with a B3 conversion.

[paco62]

I know the speedy's converstion keeps the battery in the middle of the car but I thought I saw some buggy converstions offered that had a LTO (Left Turn Only) type chassis as well.

This is a problem with the Speedy's conversion kits, but I will be in for less than $100.00 and may be able to come up with a DIY solution for the battery. Should I stay interested in Dirt Oval, I may look at buying a DO specific body and switching electronics.

[paco62]

...The main difference is the ability to put more weight on the left side (potentially a bigger asset for foam tire tracks?!...) The buggy conversions do actually work very well on loose dirt & packed dirt/clay, but it all comes back to the dreaded tire debate, foam tire track= advantage purpose built oval car, Loose dirt= both should be more evenly matched. I'm not trying to complicate thngs or confuse people anymore than they are, I'm just wanting those in our area that might not be as familiar w/dirt oval to make the right decision for themselves.

This could also present a problem for those wanting to run MDM as they are based on a buggy chassis.

[overlandovalracer]

Keep in mind that the MDM buggy chassis cars must use stock length shocks & shock towers. That's not a big deal since you can put travel limiters in them, bump stops, as well as use the short springs from Kipp's or RC For Less.


This could also present a problem for those wanting to run MDM as they are based on a buggy chassis.

[paco62]

If anybody is reading this that has converted a buggy to a Late Model, please let us know if you have created any workarounds for the battery being in the center of the chassis. I would imagine that you could add weights to help offset, but then you run the risk of it getting too heavy.

[paco62]

These or suppose to be legal,I may try one out in LM.
http://www.dirtlatemodelrcbodies.com/index.htm

Which mcallister body you going with?,The factory works concord is nice also.

I couldn't get your link to work, but I have seen that body. I am using the McAllister Vegas body.

http://www.mcallisterracing.com/racing/page6.html

I think those modified coupe's look really cool, but I guess you have to have a special class to run those. I might buy one just to paint.

I could drive it up to Chuck-A-Burger on Saturday for the car cruise, but someone might run over it... :D

[MiniT21]

http://www.leadingedgerccars.com/TC_3.html

this would be one way to get the weight over on the left hand side... basically you would cut the left side of the chassis off, and mount this along the center line of the chassis giving you more left hand weight bias.

[overlandovalracer]

The link MiniT21 posted is displaying it on a touring car, but with some creative dremel work, certainly it could be adapted to just about anything.


http://www.leadingedgerccars.com/TC_3.html

this would be one way to get the weight over on the left hand side... basically you would cut the left side of the chassis off, and mount this along the center line of the chassis giving you more left hand weight bias.

[paco62]

http://www.leadingedgerccars.com/TC_3.html

this would be one way to get the weight over on the left hand side... basically you would cut the left side of the chassis off, and mount this along the center line of the chassis giving you more left hand weight bias.

Definitely a possibility. My challenge is that I want something that can be competitive enough my first season (or through part of it)while I am learning, then convert back to a buggy next winter for off-road. Then, if I am still into Dirt Oval, buy a specific chassis for next season. Strange that I have thought about this enough to have a long term plan... :eek:

I was thinking that there may be a way to machine a battery board and attach the velcro hold downs. Then you can move your electronics to the center battery area and attach the battery board to the left side of the original chassis; possibly with heavy duty velcro (that stuff is like super glue). Maybe not the most elegant, but if it fits it should suffice. I haven't played with it, just thought it through today during a long road trip.

[jaybird 52]

AE has stopped production of the B2/B3 Line,That was one other reason I did not go with a B3 conversion.
well speedy does answer his email and you can buy almost everything you will need except front end parts and all oval cars are basicall y based off ae b2/b3:D:checkeredflag::beer: called cw parts now!?!?anyway they now build thee best buggy ever B4 and with a speedy conversion can kick ass on foams

[skullman]

AE has stopped production of the B2/B3 Line,That was one other reason I did not go with a B3 conversion.


Just buy your b3 and t3 parts from thunder tiger, they have all the parts for your b3/t3

[paco62]

Does anyone have a recommendation for a good servo for Late Model? Will you reap any benefits going digital/brushless? I have a Futaba 4PK to take advantage of HRS if I used those types of servos, but I didn't know if it was worth it. Thanks.

[overlandovalracer]

I don't recall the model #'s on mine, but I will tell you that the biggest difference I noticed over the cheap servos is that the digital ones return to center WAY better, & they operate so much smoother. The better servo will absolutely improve your lap times. I'll PM you tomorrow with the model #'s on mine.

Jim Aumann

[paco62]

I don't recall the model #'s on mine, but I will tell you that the biggest difference I noticed over the cheap servos is that the digital ones return to center WAY better, & they operate so much smoother. The better servo will absolutely improve your lap times. I'll PM you tomorrow with the model #'s on mine.

Jim Aumann



Thanks. I've ordered the TC3 Anodized shocks as well. Starting to get all the parts together, now I've got some assembly to do...

[sps3172]

Paco62,

Do you already have a body or did you at least have something in mind? If not.....

I wasn't sure if you were planning on running this conversion as an EDM car or as a DODC Late Model. If it's the latter, I was going to pass on that the popular body (interms of handling) for the DODC Late Model (2WD) classes is reported to be the Factory Works Concorde. Some guys have success with the Factory Works Rocket (slightly narrower...same stlye body). I can't speak from direct experience...just passing on what I've been told by those in the know (Putnam).

-SS

[SPEEDRAYCER]

The XXX is one of the best conversion car's for anybody wanting to start racing. The car works best with the battery right down the middle of the chassis. You will want to use a stiffer spring on the right sides. Ray

[paco62]

Paco62,

Do you already have a body or did you at least have something in mind? If not.....

I wasn't sure if you were planning on running this conversion as an EDM car or as a DODC Late Model. If it's the latter, I was going to pass on that the popular body (interms of handling) for the DODC Late Model (2WD) classes is reported to be the Factory Works Concorde. Some guys have success with the Factory Works Rocket (slightly narrower...same stlye body). I can't speak from direct experience...just passing on what I've been told by those in the know (Putnam).

-SS

This conversion is for a Late Model. I'm using the McAllister Vegas body, but that's good information for anyone trying to figure out bodies that would work.

[paco62]

The XXX is one of the best conversion car's for anybody wanting to start racing. The car works best with the battery right down the middle of the chassis. You will want to use a stiffer spring on the right sides. Ray

Thanks for the feedback. Is there a starter spring rate that you recommend? The track will be hard packed, dirt/clay mix.

[paco62]

Let me just say that AE, TC3 shocks may be really good shocks for a conversion, but they certainly suck pro level to assemble. Nothing is more frustrating than spending 30 minutes just trying not to cross-thread something. :mad: :thumbsdown:

[SPEEDRAYCER]

Hello paco62

you will have to go with a ASC 7416 threaded collar. I do not know why they changed to the plastic collars. start with number one ae pistons. use 50wt oil with 3 to 5 lb springs on the back and 8lb on the fronts or a 12lb on the right front.

[paco62]

I am using the Associated TC3 shocks and am having problems getting the front shock ball (that goes in between the two parts of the A-arm) to fit down in there. Do I have to mod that part or does anyone have a tip? Thanks.

[paco62]

Had to grind some material off the A-arms to get the front shocks to fit. Will post pics this weekend now that the chassis is all complete. I have to start working on the body now.

[paco62]

Here we are so far. I've taken a bit of time off to finish my MDM, so I am behind. The Speedy's kit is pretty easy to install. If you go this route, please PM me if you have any questions.

http://i281.photobucket.com/albums/kk203/paco62/P4070008.jpg

[paco62]

http://i281.photobucket.com/albums/kk203/paco62/P4070010.jpg

[ed gaines]

Looks Good:thumbsup:

[sps3172]

Looks Good:thumbsup:

I second that....nice job!!

[paco62]

Thanks, guys! I am jacked about it, but am holding off and finishing one car at a time (I tend to jump in the deep end and then consider which would've been the best life vest to wear...:rolleyes:). I am finishing my MDM since I am closer with it and if I don't get this done opening weekend, I can see who is running stock and/or mod and adjust motor and class from there.

I am going to try Speedy's racing foams (Greens) and see how they work (Pictured). I am now cutting out bodies. I will post another picture once I get closer to being done.

These DO bodies are a pain to cut and put together and there have been a lot of little tweaks and parts involved in the conversion.

[paco62]

I would add for anyone reading this and considering a conversion kit, that even though the little mods and parts that are unexpected can be frustrating, it is all very easy and I feel like I know my car better from putting all this together. We'll see how that translates on the track... :revs: :thumbsup: :checkeredflag:

[sps3172]

Paco62......how's it coming? Some guys are getting the 13.5 Late Model class going....your conversion would be perfect.

[paco62]

Paco62......how's it coming? Some guys are getting the 13.5 Late Model class going....your conversion would be perfect.

Ha. Man, I have been dying to get there and race. We had a baby last Tuesday and I would like to welcome future Smac Trac Racer and future first girl national RC Champion, Cassidy Ann to the world! That being said, my conversion is running very much behind. I have to put in the electronics and paint the body and I will be up. I have my MDM done, but probably cannot make it until Sunday.

I will post pic's as soon as I can.

[sps3172]

Ha. Man, I have been dying to get there and race. We had a baby last Tuesday and I would like to welcome future Smac Trac Racer and future first girl national RC Champion, Cassidy Ann to the world! That being said, my conversion is running very much behind. I have to put in the electronics and paint the body and I will be up. I have my MDM done, but probably cannot make it until Sunday.

I will post pic's as soon as I can.

Congratulations!!!! I'd say that's a good reason to be behind schedule. Good luck with the new baby....hope to see you out soon.

[ThisDougsForU]

Congrats, Toby. Looking forward to seeing you out at the track.


Ha. Man, I have been dying to get there and race. We had a baby last Tuesday and I would like to welcome future Smac Trac Racer and future first girl national RC Champion, Cassidy Ann to the world! That being said, my conversion is running very much behind. I have to put in the electronics and paint the body and I will be up. I have my MDM done, but probably cannot make it until Sunday.

I will post pic's as soon as I can.