DIY Network

RC Monster Trucks: Shocks Upgrade and Tuned Pipe From "Radio Control Hobbies" episode RCH-303

In this episode of DIY's Radio Control Hobbies, host Chris Chianelli features monster trucks. In this segment, Chris upgrades the popular HPI Savage® with new tires, beefed up shocks and a tuned pipe.

Materials used in this episode:

4-way wrench
Allen wrench
Phillips screwdriver
Needle-nose pliers

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Figure A

Important: This demonstration shows provides some of the basic information for assembly and operation of this particular radio-control model TK. There are variations in assembly for each particular model. Read and carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions that come with yours -- whether it is this particular model or another. Additional information about assembly as well as running, troubleshooting and fine-tuning the model can typically be found in the manufacturer's instructions.

Before getting started with wheels, tires and suspension, Chris replaced the Savage's stock chassis members and replaced them with T-6 aluminum components (figure A).

Figure B

Wheels, Tires and Shocks Upgrade

• We changed out our stock wheels with some performance versions from Hot Bodies ® (figure B). With this brand, the tires are already pre-glued onto the rims. Ensuring that the tires are properly glued to the rims is very important.

• Remove the wheels using a 4-way wrench. On this model, the right side is a clockwise thread and the left is counter clock wise thread.

• Remove the rear body post.
  

• Remove the shocks using an extended allen wrench on the top part (figure C) and a Phillips-head screwdriver on the bottom.

• We replaced the stock plastic shocks with anodized-aluminum oil-filled shocks (figure D) with a rubber boot that protects shaft from dirt and damage.

  Figure C

  Figure D

  
  

• To install the new shocks, insert the shock onto the bolt (figure E).

• Insert it through the tower and tighten it down (figure F).

  Figure E

  Figure F

  
  

• For the second shock, take a grommet and shock and install on the front side (figure G). Tighten down only until snug. Do not over tighten.

• Fasten the shock at the bottom with the screw provided (figure H).

• Repeat the procedure, installing all 8 shocks.

Figure G

Figure H

	Figure I
	Figure J

Tuned-Pipe Upgrade

The Savage comes with a performance tuned muffler (figure I), but we enhanced performance even more with an aftermarket tuned pipe that boosts power and allows the engine to run cooler. Here's how to install one.

• Disconnect the forward rear-shock (You only need to disconnect the shock at the top end).

• Remove the air cleaner.

• The front end of the tuned pipe is secured with tempered piano wire. Put the tempered piano wire on the pipe and tighten down with Allen wrench (figure J).
  

• Slip the header over the exhaust port (figure K).

• Place the piano wire down in front and tighten (figure L).

  Figure K

  Figure L

  
  

• The header is secured to the exhaust port with a small retaining spring (figure M).

• Connect the spring to header. Put in one side and using needle nose pliers, pull around and connect to the other side (figure N).

  Figure M

  Figure N

  
  

  	Figure O
  	Figure P

• Re-install the front rear shock and tighten.

• Re-install the high-volume 2-stage air cleaner (figure O).

• Install the wheels using a 4-way wrench. (Remember that the right side is clockwise and the left side is counter-clockwise.)

• Reinstall the body post using the supplied clips (figure P).

• Count down about 3 holes and install the pins and snap on the body.

RESOURCES :

T-Maxx radio-control 4x4 truck by Traxxas
Traxxas®
Website: www.traxxas.com

The T-Maxx was featured on episode 104 and 303 of DIY's Radio Control Hobbies workshop.

Hot Bodies Wheels and Bodies
Website: www.hotbodiesonline.net

HPI Savage® RC Monster Truck
HPI Racing
Website: www.hpiracing.com/