I've been working on a new project...

The idea is to build a chassis that is designed around Toyota components. I want to keep it very simple and make it as painless as possible to transfer your existing stuff over to the new chassis in your own garage.

I know a lot of you are wheeling your trucks way past it's limits and have completely trashed the body and are tired of continuing to fix frames. So for many of you out there... I think this is going to be a great solution.

I set down and spent some time designing a chassis that is still more like a truck. The front end can be set up to have the lines of an old FJ40 or the tube fenders could be left off to accommodate new Taco skins... The chassis will feature frame rails that are the stock width of Toy perch's and be setup to run rear Toy leaf springs on the front, allowing you to simply bolt your front axle in. I plan to also offer 22R(E) motor mounts already installed in the chassis if desired. There will be room to run a doubler as well. The rear of the chassis is designed to 4 link the rear, but it can be done on the cheap with rear TJ springs, Air shocks, or coilovers... pending on your budget. Of course the front could be linked also, but to help out those on a budget, the leafs will get you in the woods cheap and quick. The rear of the chassis features a bed that you can still actually carry your junk in. Of course I'm only going to put in a minimal amount of tube work to leave it open to customize to your liking, this will help keep costs down.

The point is, I want you to be able to almost bolt your stuff in this chassis and still have enough money to actually go wheelin. Your new rig would be lighter and way more capable than your old truck ever was and you can upgrade it over time as money allows.

I'm interested in keeping the bare chassis down around $2600
I'm going to offer a 4link kit to make linking the rear end very simple, and as stated above, I'll offer engine mounts in the chassis for the popular 22R(E) motor to bolt in.

The first chassis is scheduled to be built in just a few weeks.. I also plan to build one completely turn key here in the shop and will continue this thread to show the build up.

Here's a few pics to show what the chassis design looks like. Let me know your thoughts!

PRICE is going to be $2800 keep reading to see the final product as it evolved.
http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/chassis/side.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/chassis/side1.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/chassis/side2.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/chassis/front.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/chassis/front2.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/chassis/front1.jpg

-Tim

I like the lines! :smokin: It's a buggy that still has a pickup look to it. :grinpimp:

is a 4 seater version in the works?

is a 4 seater version in the works?

x2

That's kickass!

The single biggest advantage I see in a tube chassis is approach and departure angle. Out west we have a lot of dry waterfalls that demand you nose up to them, and with truck bodywork it's really hard to get that negative approach angle, and still have good flex.

What will be the wheelbase range for the two seater?

Does this mean I get a discount?:flipoff2:

is a 4 seater version in the works?


How much shipped to 95136?

:p

I like this idea a lot, my biggest complaint of buggies is the lack of space for gear. Not everyone wants a comp rig for trail running.

Will be watching this, I'm building a runner trail only now but the more I take off of it I am starting to think I should just build a buggy.

looks good, Def dig the lines... :smokin:

I've kind of wished someone would design a formula chassis that looked more like a pickup. My understanding of the opriginal intent was that key dimensions would be given to potential builders and they could design within those parameters as long as they could exactly replicate each chassis.

Why do all of the toyota based chassis builders have to be so far away? That thing is sick!!!!

think I'm ready

http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c291/91blaze/toyota%20expo%202008/DSC00797.jpg

would like to see a space for a small rear seat

and the front's not to my liking 100%, little busy and the fender bars are "jeepish"

KY isnt too far for a road trip...

Can't wait to see one built up!

not much of a buggy guy but this would be something different and cool looking exspecialy for the yota world, ditch the front hoop and fender bars very much jeep look......

wow! I'm gonna want one of those!

I've started dreaming...

...but maybe one day it will come true. I like the optin to swap all my shit in and go wheeling. The KISS principle makes the world go round sometimes, and I'm glad to hear that I could KISS with this baby.

When all the sheetmetal's gone, I'll start saving pennies, dimes, and benjamins for this!

Your design looks great. What is the wheelbase going to be?

The rear lines look a whole lot like Cary's Got Propane buggy

http://www.pirate4x4.com/forum/showthread.php?t=526730&highlight=

:smokin:

[QUOTE=rugburn;8744599]The rear lines look a whole lot like Cary's Got Propane buggyQUOTE]

That's just another reason that it kicks ass.

is a 4 seater version in the works?

The rear down bars could easily be changed to make room to be an "extended cab"... I don't see why someone couldn't put a rear seat in with minimal mods.

That's kickass!

The single biggest advantage I see in a tube chassis is approach and departure angle. Out west we have a lot of dry waterfalls that demand you nose up to them, and with truck bodywork it's really hard to get that negative approach angle, and still have good flex.

What will be the wheelbase range for the two seater?

The chassis could easily be upgraded to a linked front end and push the WB out a little in the front. But the idea driving this is to make getting into a chassis affordable to a larger number of people. The leafs in the front have there disadvantages, but there's no denying that they make setting up the suspension way cheaper for those on a budget, and will still perform great.

Your design looks great. What is the wheelbase going to be?

I'm thinking with the leafs in the front the WB could be set up from 105"+ The first couple will be set up at 110" with 40" tires.


... the front's not to my liking 100%, little busy and the fender bars are "jeepish"

not much of a buggy guy but this would be something different and cool looking especially for the yota world, ditch the front hoop and fender bars very much jeep look......

I was originally thinking I wanted the truck to have a Flattie feel to it... I think this thing might appeal to some Jeep guys too? I will definitely restyle the front to look like the FJ grill for the Toy guys, or offer just the shock hoops up front for anyone not wanting the tube fenders.

The rear lines look a whole lot like Cary's Got Propane buggy
:smokin:

TEEJ above is the original person to bring the idea to the table. He was inspired by the Got Propane buggy and contacted me about building a chassis and had a good idea of what he wanted it to look like. I took his idea and designed up something I knew would be buildable and function great. We are still in the design phases and a few things may slightly change. TEEJ will be getting the first one and I'll be building myself one at the same time to help out with any potential problems. But the Got Propane buggy has definitely inspired some of the lines in this chassis.

Fj hood and grill would be slick. Give the chassis some head room in case people run comps and what not. I'll be shopping for this once I trash my body :D.

The nice thing about this type of chassis is you get more space for stuff like a cooler, toolbags, spares and even a back seat, or two.

Wheelbase could be what you want it to be but will have an effect on you approach/departure angles. Well it will be tougher to control W/B if you are not using §XX§. Leaf's will hinder your approach/departure angles as well.

I like the square/rectangle main rails with what looks to be an easliy replaced rear clip. The lines are nice and this could be skinned with desert truck glass real easily. You also left alot of room for teh end user to add tube and gussets for ????

I also don't care for the front hoop thing and fenders, it's too Geep lookin.

Well done, I'll be building my own chassis though. I'm still playin with final design though.

Will watch this space for updates. Will save me from having to build my own. Are you planning on offering skins to go with this?

I just did some more thinking and what about pedal assemblies, brakes MC/Booster and all the other bs that you have to make brackets for when building a buggy? Are you selling the chassis with those as an option or is it up to the owner to build those?

i love the lines. can t wait to see one put together and this would be time saver instead of me replacing metal and grinding on my old frame. with the frame rails would a stock or aftermarket skid plate for a yota still work (just bought skid plate from tg is reason i ask.)? and from the drawings maybe i missing it would the box frame rails run all the way back cause i plan i just running leaf springs and it would be easier to mount.

thanks

and as always the chassis look great

I just did some more thinking and what about pedal assemblies, brakes MC/Booster and all the other bs that you have to make brackets for when building a buggy? Are you selling the chassis with those as an option or is it up to the owner to build those?

There are so many different options for pedals out there... it would be hard to make brackets for them. Just like all our chassis though, you could add pedals or any oher accessory at the time of your build and the chassis would come with them already installed. Some welding will definitely be required to get it all together.

-Tim

i love the lines. can t wait to see one put together and this would be time saver instead of me replacing metal and grinding on my old frame. with the frame rails would a stock or aftermarket skid plate for a yota still work (just bought skid plate from tg is reason i ask.)? and from the drawings maybe i missing it would the box frame rails run all the way back cause i plan i just running leaf springs and it would be easier to mount.

thanks

and as always the chassis look great

The rails will be straight for ease of building them, so I'm not sure if a stock skid will mount up or not. That is a good point though, and I'll look into what it would take for people to reuse the skid they already own. I had intended for the chassis to have a flat belly, easily making a flat skid to mount up to it.

The rails will not go all the way back, but I don't see it being very hard to mount the springs to where the rails end and building a small addition to the rear of the bed for the back of the spring to attach too... definitely possible.

-Tim

Are you planning on offering skins to go with this?

If the demand is high enough we will work on some skins... So far the response is great.

As we keep building buggies and pushing the sport, rigs are getting ridiculously expensive. I keep seeing the gap between simple trail rigs and full all out buggies getting bigger and bigger. I feel like there needs to be a way for people to get into a chassis without having to go all out. I'm hoping we can come up with something here that will help bridge the gap for people that don't want to spend there kids inheritance putting something together.

-Tim

The rails will be straight for ease of building them, so I'm not sure if a stock skid will mount up or not. That is a good point though, and I'll look into what it would take for people to reuse the skid they already own. I had intended for the chassis to have a flat belly, easily making a flat skid to mount up to it.

The rails will not go all the way back, but I don't see it being very hard to mount the springs to where the rails end and building a small addition to the rear of the bed for the back of the spring to attach too... definitely possible.

-Tim

I would not widen the rails. That's the one issue with ftoys I see. The belly height isnt so much an issue, just the fact it is sooo wide from being on a stock frame. With the rails in line, if someone wanted to lengthen the rails they could easily run inboarded rear springs in the back as well. For using tcase mounts, just cut it down, minor issue over the scope of the project, IMO.

X2 also keep it looking like a truck.

I would not widen the rails. That's the one issue with ftoys I see. The belly height isnt so much an issue, just the fact it is sooo wide from being on a stock frame. With the rails in line, if someone wanted to lengthen the rails they could easily run inboarded rear springs in the back as well. For using tcase mounts, just cut it down, minor issue over the scope of the project, IMO.

I'm with you on this one... I just walked out and looked at a stock frame I have here. It would be pretty easy to cut down a stock crossmember if you didn't want to fab one up. I might off the crossmember as part of the motor mount option. Then everything would set right in with a flat belly.

-Tim

There are so many different options for pedals out there... it would be hard to make brackets for them. Just like all our chassis though, you could add pedals or any oher accessory at the time of your build and the chassis would come with them already installed. Some welding will definitely be required to get it all together.


I don't know how feasible it would be, but I think what the original poster is getting at, is making this a chassis that all of those expensive/time consuming/PITA details are worked out. Meaning integrated flat belly/skid/double t-case mount, motor mounts, cooling, fuel, electrical, steering column/box etc.

Maybe it means you set it up so any 1st/2nd/3rd gen toy column, pedal and MC pieces will bolt in? (here's the cue for that boogerweldz "my first buggy firewall" pic that I see on here every year or two--man that was funny).

Sure some stuff should be aftermarket from the start to keep it from looking too ghetto, but generally build it so that all you need are basic fab skills/tools, a complete donor toy and your chassis and maybe a small parts list from summit or whoever (or maybe you package those parts as part of the deal).

For the more advanced builder/fab guy you can just make all those parts optional.

truggy!

how do you guys wheel open buggies in the winter?? shit, I'd freeze my butt off!

I don't know how feasible it would be, but I think what the original poster is getting at, is making this a chassis that all of those expensive/time consuming/PITA details are worked out. Meaning integrated flat belly/skid/double t-case mount, motor mounts, cooling, fuel, electrical, steering column/box etc.

Maybe it means you set it up so any 1st/2nd/3rd gen toy column, pedal and MC pieces will bolt in? (here's the cue for that boogerweldz "my first buggy firewall" pic that I see on here every year or two--man that was funny).

Sure some stuff should be aftermarket from the start to keep it from looking too ghetto, but generally build it so that all you need are basic fab skills/tools, a complete donor toy and your chassis and maybe a small parts list from summit or whoever (or maybe you package those parts as part of the deal).

For the more advanced builder/fab guy you can just make all those parts optional.
it was not boogerweldz
it was a certian guy that built an f-toy not a buggy;)

i love the idea. plus it still looks like a pick-up. what kind of price range are you shooting for?

i love the idea. plus it still looks like a pick-up. what kind of price range are you shooting for?

I've been working on a new project...

I'm interested in keeping the bare chassis down around $2600



-Tim

there you go

X2 also keep it looking like a truck.

Hey man, always loved your buggy from when you first scrapped the truck, and especially now. As Tim said above, it was your rig that I contacted him about and told him I wanted something similar that was simple. Thats what I liked best about yours, and mine will be bare bones as well. It'll probably be awhile before I'm to the fuel system stage, but I'll be ordering a kit from you for the build.

If a lot of people are interested in the chassis, I would definitely work on a "product line" just for this chassis. I can work on some bracketry after the first few are made, I'd just have them as options that can be added to the bare chassis price for those that need them. It would be really cool to have another spec class based on this one similar to the FToys...

I'd like to keep the price as low as feasible to make the chassis a very tempting option for more people... after all the idea is to get people back in the woods on a beer budget.

I'm thinking $2800 is a fair price for the bare chassis. I'll try to keep some of the accessory brackets cheap and put together a kit for the 4 link cheap too.

-Tim

truggy!

how do you guys wheel open buggies in the winter?? shit, I'd freeze my butt off!


Same way people ride 4wheelers and motorcyles... with a big smile on our blue lips.:D

it's not hard to put a small oil cooler in to use as a heater to warm you up a little. Or get some heated seats....

-Tim

I love the idea of a "plug and play". If this works out for you I may be in for one after the next project loses all of its factory skin.

truggy!

how do you guys wheel open buggies in the winter?? shit, I'd freeze my butt off!

Actually not that bad. Last snow run I remember the high was 19 that day, and we went up 2000' above that! Just dress accordingly, and no issue. I was originally planning to put in a heater, say one from a 84-95 runner originally under the console. But after that run decided it just wasnt necessary.

I was originally thinking I wanted the truck to have a Flattie feel to it... I think this thing might appeal to some Jeep guys too? I will definitely restyle the front to look like the FJ grill for the Toy guys, or offer just the shock hoops up front for anyone not wanting the tube fenders.





their ya go didnt think of it that way could easily pull off a fj grill and hood with a pickup buggy look....how long out till one of these are built, keep up the good work.....

i like the back alot looks kinda like mine
the pickup buggy's are pimp
edit if you would of come out with this a few months ago i would of so done this instead of hacking up my junk! dammit now i have new ideas

i like the back alot looks kinda like mine
the pickup buggy's are pimp
edit if you would of come out with this a few months ago i would of so done this instead of hacking up my junk! dammit now i have new ideas

I was working on this while giving you encouragement... :D

-Tim

i would of been all over this and transferring my parts over to it!!
hell i woulda waited for it i like the lines alot and the fj front like shoope's rig

When you gonna get started building one I wanna see it

I'm going to try to bend the first one out in the first or second week of Oct.

-Tim

this is exactly what I am looking for in a buggy chassis...now I need to start looking for money :laughing:

Cant wait to see what the finished chassis looks like when you get done bending it up.

Great minds think alike.

I have been playing around with a similar concept the last few months. I have had a few buddies want a toy based rig thats better than my ftoy.

DAMNIT!! will somebody please post the pics hosted by Pirate so those of us at work dont just see red X's :D

If I could get three orders at one time, what kind of discount would we get :D

seriously, if "someone" were to put a deposit on this next week, when would it be avaliable for pickup???

Thanks

Very cool lines :)

DAMNIT!! will somebody please post the pics hosted by Pirate so those of us at work dont just see red X's :D

If I could get three orders at one time, what kind of discount would we get :D

seriously, if "someone" were to put a deposit on this next week, when would it be avaliable for pickup???

Thanks
your boss pays you to surf pirate?
tell him to fix your computer then:flipoff2:
ok here they are

DAMNIT!! will somebody please post the pics hosted by Pirate so those of us at work dont just see red X's :D

If I could get three orders at one time, what kind of discount would we get :D

seriously, if "someone" were to put a deposit on this next week, when would it be avaliable for pickup???

Thanks


PM sent

Thinking about the versatility of making a prerunner and hanging some desert glass off this chassis, I went and talked to the guy's that do some of our hoods. They think it would be cool to try to offer body kits for each brand that fit the chassis. Of course a Taco kit would have to be first, but I think it would be cool to be able to order the chassis with your choice of Taco, S-10, Ranger, Dakota... bodies? I'd have to modify the chassis slightly, but it would make a wicked Spec class to see a bunch of recognizable trucks duking it out head to head.:D

-Tim

What would be the possibility of getting sometime of windshield in this thing? Lexan or shandard safety glass. Whith skins and some sort of windshield in it I could run it on the streets in Colorado. Just curious. Can't wait to see this build, very interested.

Percey's makes "speed glass" (http://store.summitracing.com/partdetail.asp?autofilter=1&part=PHP%2DF24X60%2D2&N=700+400251+318304+4294891681+4294791304+42947905 25+115&autoview=sku) that is very easy to cut and work with... should make putting a windshield in a snap. If you need wipers check out the electric conversions for the old Willies that ran vacuum units... cheap and easy.

-Tim

Looks really good. I have something very similar drawn up in solidwork for a full tube chassis with an ext cab tacoma look to it. Pretty much the same wheel base and tire combo too. I was thinking of making a couple for friends because they really liked the look and we are all big toyota fans. Bout time somone started makin more toyota looking rigs. Cant wait to see one of these built up.

Nice....will that also come in a "full figured" version :D?!

I'm planning it to be around 54" wide. That should let you get two of the "fat boy" suspension seats in there and be plenty comfy all day long on the trail:D

I'm sure I could make a slightly bigger version upon special request.

-Tim

Its going to start snowing here soon and I will need something to work on, any more updates??

If you need wipers check out the electric conversions for the old Willies that ran vacuum units... cheap and easy.

As an owner of an old willys, looking for working wipers, could you elaborate on this? All I can find are the $40 JC whitney cheapies that I understand are worthless or fairly high end wiper motors that go for $120 all the way up to $300. (each!). I like my jeep and my saftey, but jeeze, $240 for a pair of wiper motors just seems like too much.

this *should* be Ftoy legal if the same dimensions are used for width and wheelbase and of course, leaf springs...IMO...Ftoys are fawking ugly, youve got something more attractive that they should make legal in that class...nascar has chevy, ford, toyota bodies right....why cant Ftoy have a couple different shapes...

this *should* be Ftoy legal if the same dimensions are used for width and wheelbase and of course, leaf springs...IMO...Ftoys are fawking ugly, youve got something more attractive that they should make legal in that class...nascar has chevy, ford, toyota bodies right....why cant Ftoy have a couple different shapes...

I'm not too familiar with the Ftoy stuff but don't the rules state you have to have a toy frame? Or a certain percentage of it?

I'm not too familiar with the Ftoy stuff but don't the rules state you have to have a toy frame? Or a certain percentage of it?


yeah, but i think some of the rules that dont affect performance should be 'adjusted' ? since i dont have an Ftoy, or the ability to get one now that im pretty committed on my trucks build state, i wont. so i dont say anything in the Ftoy section because its really not my business if i dont intend to have one anymore...

Definately a sweet chassis, but I was gonna ask in some places you have great triangulation and in others, there is none. Was that so that whoever could do it themselves?

this *should* be Ftoy legal if the same dimensions are used for width and wheelbase and of course, leaf springs...IMO...Ftoys are fawking ugly, youve got something more attractive that they should make legal in that class...nascar has chevy, ford, toyota bodies right....why cant Ftoy have a couple different shapes...

It could definitely be set up to be the same dimensions as the Yota, but I think part of the focus on the F-toys was about retention of the stock frame and being able to utilize aftermarket support on suspension components... From what I can tell, the class has evolved some, but I'm not sure if they'd be ready for this? I agree though, and think it would be super cool to let them in the class.

If things go as planned, I should have one bent out by the end of next week.

-Tim

Definately a sweet chassis, but I was gonna ask in some places you have great triangulation and in others, there is none. Was that so that whoever could do it themselves?

The front end was designed with sheet metal and building a firewall in mind... There are definitely nodes in the chassis designed to be critical mounting points that people will need, but I don't plan to put in any rear wall or diagonals. I think giving people a basic shell, and letting them put in a few bars around their stuff will allow more versatility in the chassis. Of course I can put in a few extra bars if someone requested them...

-Tim

As an owner of an old willys, looking for working wipers, could you elaborate on this? All I can find are the $40 JC whitney cheapies that I understand are worthless or fairly high end wiper motors that go for $120 all the way up to $300. (each!). I like my jeep and my saftey, but jeeze, $240 for a pair of wiper motors just seems like too much.

Check these out (http://www.quadratec.com/products/55307_03.htm)... designed to replace the original vacuum motors and very easy to install on a homade windshield. They are kind of cheap, but I've yet to see one stop working and they will get you past DOT.


-Tim

yeah, but i think some of the rules that dont affect performance should be 'adjusted' ? since i dont have an Ftoy, or the ability to get one now that im pretty committed on my trucks build state, i wont. so i dont say anything in the Ftoy section because its really not my business if i dont intend to have one anymore...


Well said.

The F toy rules spec the stock chassis and leaf springs and a hendrix chassis. Plus a few other things that would kink this build fitting in the class.

I think the idea is awesome. Based on my conversations with Big & Lil (WEROCK) they will love this idea. I am running F toy again in 09. I have not decided on 2010. Pro mod or one of these would be real cool.

F toys are not ugly:flipoff2: At least mine is not.
http://i192.photobucket.com/albums/z96/ftoy507/GEDC0180.jpg

F toys are not ugly:flipoff2: At least mine is not.


youre right they arent ugly, but they all look the same so its kinda lame, especailly when the appearance has no bearing on the performance regarding the chassis. yet the guys who started the class have even set that design parameter in stone...i dont even think its legal for me to buy mike hendrix's blueprints and produce my own chassis, even if it is identical...lame! or better yet, create a tube chassis that welds to the toyota frame in the exact same manner, with the exact same weight, exact same materials, just a different shape for purely cosmetic purposes...just for the sake of originality or variety, or not so fawking boring...


not to get off topic of the bent fab chassis, but it would sure be nice if something like this was an alternative to the Ftoy chassis, especially if it imposed NO performance hinderance or advantage...

couldn't you just be in the stock mod or pro mod class then?

looks alot like this one from Those Guys Rod & Customs......:eek:

youre right they arent ugly, but they all look the same so its kinda lame, especailly when the appearance has no bearing on the performance regarding the chassis. yet the guys who started the class have even set that design parameter in stone...i dont even think its legal for me to buy mike hendrix's blueprints and produce my own chassis, even if it is identical...lame! or better yet, create a tube chassis that welds to the toyota frame in the exact same manner, with the exact same weight, exact same materials, just a different shape for purely cosmetic purposes...just for the sake of originality or variety, or not so fawking boring...


not to get off topic of the bent fab chassis, but it would sure be nice if something like this was an alternative to the Ftoy chassis, especially if it imposed NO performance hinderance or advantage...

The appearence does have some effect on performance. It limits the tire size you can run. If you get larger than 37" tires you will bottom out on the frame and limit flex.

couldn't you just be in the stock mod or pro mod class then?

Yes, this would be a pro mod vehicle. No skins and it would be unlimited. That has been a problem with the F toy. All events place the rig in an unlimited class since it does not resemble a factory vehicle. Provided it had skins that resemble a factory vehicle it would be pro mod.. This is something WEROCK realy likes.

My understanding (hope) is this would be a class similar to F Toy. There would be some rules and regulations on how and what to use when building the truck. I chose F toy because it fit in my budget. If I move up to pro mod the budget needs to jump 50% or more. I really enjoy the competition and friendship of the F toy class. I would enjoy the competition at pro mod. But, I am not as happy with the $$$ to be spent and the fact that if you spend more $$$ and are an equal driver you may be on the podium more often.
If you take a four cylinder out to compete with the pro mods it may not work that well. A lot of the pro mod guys are running LS1s and super hot V6s. Its going to be tough to compete in a 4 banger.

If you take a four cylinder out to compete with the pro mods it may not work that well. A lot of the pro mod guys are running LS1s and super hot V6s. Its going to be tough to compete in a 4 banger.


Todd is competing in WEROCK with a 22R in the unlimited class. (Shocker chassis, TLT racing) He modified a chevy 2.8 FI to run as well as having a volvo turbo but he was able to hang on 10th overall at the Grand Nationals and I believe 6th overall in WEROCK west, first year competing!
Like most he is running 40's.

yeah that is one thing i like about the ftoy class. it keeps everyone on a pretty level playing fuild and makes you get creative about changes.
don't forget about dave cole now with his 3rz 4 banger, which i don't think is very modified. and he does very well
but yeah the budget is definetly wildly different in the other classes but that's how it goes

looks alot like this one from Those Guys Rod & Customs......:eek:


that doesn't say much the back of tim's new chassis look a hell of a lot like mine, which in turn i got some ideas off of the carry's got propane buggy and some things from the hazardous concepts ground pounder chassis
just alot of the pickup style tube buggies look very very similar.

I've solved the windshield thing. At least for buggies:smokin:
http://pirate4x4.com/forum/showthread.php?t=694848

Todd is competing in WEROCK with a 22R in the unlimited class. (Shocker chassis, TLT racing) He modified a chevy 2.8 FI to run as well as having a volvo turbo but he was able to hang on 10th overall at the Grand Nationals and I believe 6th overall in WEROCK west, first year competing!
Like most he is running 40's.

That is awesome to hear. Rock on Yota guys.

I really like it since I picked up DOA as a sponsor for 09. I just put in a DOA 225hp stroker 22/20r in my f toy. (only 200hp on propane?ONLY???) Maybe this engine combined with an adapter to an atlas or stak and I could be real competitive with one of these chassis and some of my current running gear. (I have a rear disco and it has worked well, I just think it will not tolerate the long term abuse)

I am a firm believer enough horespower and minimal weight is a good combo.

that doesn't say much the back of tim's new chassis look a hell of a lot like mine, which in turn i got some ideas off of the carry's got propane buggy and some things from the hazardous concepts ground pounder chassis
just alot of the pickup style tube buggies look very very similar.

Im not comlaining just saying it looks alot like it.

I would like to have a in close-able cab buggy. with an option of 4 seats, and a heater!!!

south dakota ya know.

Could this be built to be street legal in California ?

Yes, this would be a pro mod vehicle. No skins and it would be unlimited. That has been a problem with the F toy. All events place the rig in an unlimited class since it does not resemble a factory vehicle. Provided it had skins that resemble a factory vehicle it would be pro mod.. This is something WEROCK really likes..

It would definitely be easy to be in the Pro mod class with this chassis.. And, it could be a great way to get into the pro mod class on A LOT CHEAPER budget. I personally think the Pro mod class is the most expensive to build for and compete in. Many of us like the idea of the class, especially for promotion of the sport, but the truth is you can build an unlimited buggy cheaper. An intervention such as a truck class could definitely be a great transition to keep the Pro mod theme and showcase "Branding" that spectators identify with, yet keep a more reasonable budget...



My understanding (hope) is this would be a class similar to F Toy. There would be some rules and regulations on how and what to use when building the truck. I chose F toy because it fit in my budget. If I move up to pro mod the budget needs to jump 50% or more. I really enjoy the competition and friendship of the F toy class. I would enjoy the competition at pro mod. But, I am not as happy with the $$$ to be spent and the fact that if you spend more $$$ and are an equal driver you may be on the podium more often.
If you take a four cylinder out to compete with the pro mods it may not work that well. A lot of the pro mod guys are running LS1s and super hot V6s. Its going to be tough to compete in a 4 banger.

I agree that it may difficult to compete with some of the current high dollar Pro mod rigs... The question is, would enough people be interested in building to another SPEC class to be feasible for a new class to be implemented? If so, then the idea of the class and some rules would need to be created to ensure people that built a chassis would qualify for the class...

With a spec set of rules, I think this chassis could be built with several different drive lines from different brands and be fairly equal in performance. If the rules stated specific 4 cylinders, axle sizes and width, tire size, minimum weight, etc. It would be cool to see Toy vs. Dodge vs. Ford vs. Chevy GETTIN" IT ON head to head. Cost to build would be reasonable, and Spectators would get into it too. Isn't that the core idea of the current Pro mod class?

I would like to have a in close-able cab buggy. with an option of 4 seats, and a heater!!!

south dakota ya know.

Maybe a 4Runner version?:D






.

i just got done building a 4runner chassis same lins as 93 runner fo a guy here in colorado just needs our fiberglass skins to look even more like a runner

sent you a PM, great idea. i have been looking for a 2 seater with a bed for a while.

holley

I just put in a DOA 225hp stroker 22/20r in my f toy. (only 200hp on propane?ONLY???)


man I thought you were going with the 165hp motor they have. Dang that thing's gotta be fast now.

Bent any tube yet?

It would definitely be easy to be in the Pro mod class with this chassis.. And, it could be a great way to get into the pro mod class on A LOT CHEAPER budget. I personally think the Pro mod class is the most expensive to build for and compete in. Many of us like the idea of the class, especially for promotion of the sport, but the truth is you can build an unlimited buggy cheaper. An intervention such as a truck class could definitely be a great transition to keep the Pro mod theme and showcase "Branding" that spectators identify with, yet keep a more reasonable budget...




I agree that it may difficult to compete with some of the current high dollar Pro mod rigs... The question is, would enough people be interested in building to another SPEC class to be feasible for a new class to be implemented? If so, then the idea of the class and some rules would need to be created to ensure people that built a chassis would qualify for the class...

With a spec set of rules, I think this chassis could be built with several different drive lines from different brands and be fairly equal in performance. If the rules stated specific 4 cylinders, axle sizes and width, tire size, minimum weight, etc. It would be cool to see Toy vs. Dodge vs. Ford vs. Chevy GETTIN" IT ON head to head. Cost to build would be reasonable, and Spectators would get into it too. Isn't that the core idea of the current Pro mod class?



It has taken a long time for F toy to grow. I really think it is kicking in strong right now.
Big and Lil would be the one to ask about another class. I know they really have there hands full.

I think the best idea would be to spec the rules and let the rigs run the pro mod courses. You would compete against all the pro mods But, your primary competition would be the chassis you produced. This would be similar to F toy. We compete on the mod stock courses. But, we dont care if the y win or lose. We are competing against each other.

man I thought you were going with the 165hp motor they have. Dang that thing's gotta be fast now.

Yes It is very strong. I am super impressed with Tim from DOA and the DOA racing engine.

Bent any tube yet?

yeah, any progress pics?

We got started on the first prototype yesterday. :D I should have it off the rack very soon to get some good pics. Here is after day one. It's slow going because of how many notes I'm keeping to be able to reproduce it.

Here's is part of the front in generic form. I'm trying to make it simple to build, but want to offer a slightly different front end that can be added to this. I'll shoot pics of it this way when complete, then go back and add some more tube and shoot pics again to show it with the tube fenders. Sounds weird, but it'll all be done before the weekend and make sense.:D
http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070475.jpg

The main lower C is made from 2" x .136" wall to help handle the abuse it see's on the trail. It's made from 2 pieces because it won't fit in the bender as one piece... I incorporated a little kick into the rear to give extra clearence over stuff (kinda like the Hummer did). It's all confusing looking at it in the frame jig, I'll have it out tomorrow and start getting good pics.

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070474.jpg

Here's some from today (day 2)... I went ahead and pulled it off the rack so you can see the lines a little better. I'm hoping it will be finished tomorrow, pending how many times I have to stop and answer the phone:D

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070483.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070484.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070485.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070486.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070487.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070488.jpg

Looks good.
Very nice lines.
Keep us in the loop.

This chassis is going to be sick. will this be a roller or complete?

holley

looks bitchin' so far. you better price this thing way out of my budget so i can maintain my marriage.:smokin:

Tim, I like what I'm seeing. I like the rear section more than I thought, we just have to get it going. Looking forward to taking the yota apart this weekend for sure.
No luck on the Master Cylinder idea yet.

Allen

This chassis is going to be sick. will this be a roller or complete?

holley

This one is just going to be a bare chassis and is already sold... I'm pretty sure there will be a build thread on it tho:D... that will be up to TEEJ.
Looking foreward to building yours:D

I'll be building another one for myself that I intend on finishing out completely to do some R&D with, then sell. I will cover the build of mine in this thread. It will be a budget build to show where money should be spent, and where money can be saved to have a killer rig. I'm already getting some sick ideas for what I want to do to mine....... with the intrest in this chassis, mine will probably sell before it's finished, but I at least want to drive it once:flipoff2:

-Tim

kick ass. looks good. :smokin:

Really really like it. Can't wait to a rolling rig built around this chassis. keep posting pics

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070494.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070492.jpg

Simply awsome Tim. Can't wait to check it out. I will be doing a build thread, but I'll probably wait until I've made some decent progress before posting it. Looks great so far, the size is gonna be perfect for what I got planned for it:D

Total height is 69" with the belly 20" off the floor... It looks really fast!!
The rear end has tons of room for up travel, I can easily see this chassis be set up as a prerunner with huge travel in the rear.


-Tim

That looks even better then I thought. Truly impressed!!!

Oh and the prerunner idea... GENIUS!!!

It's off the Jig.....:D

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070508.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070506.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070507.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070509.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070505.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070495.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070496.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070498.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070501.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070503.jpg

I really like that. You do nice work.

Looks sick! What are the inside dimensions of the "bed", is there enough room to mount two propane tanks?

Have you nailed down a price yet.
Basically as pictured in the grass above?
I will be in KY at the end of the month for the fall crawl.

love your work. great idea with this buggy.

If and when I build a buggy, I'm coming to you.

In all actuality, I see a tube buggy, with a longer, usable storage area. Why nobody has thought of something like this before is beyond me...

love it.

Looks sick! What are the inside dimensions of the "bed", is there enough room to mount two propane tanks?

The bed is 50" wide inside by around 55" long by around 12" deep at the shallow end of usable space:D

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070512.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070518.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070517.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070513.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070514.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070515.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070516.jpg

Have you nailed down a price yet.
Basically as pictured in the grass above?
I will be in KY at the end of the month for the fall crawl.

This will be considered "BARE CHASSIS" and the price will be $2800.
From this point I'll start adding "options" and that will help people complete it in there own garage.... spring hangers for the front leafs, motor mount plates and crossmember for the stock 22R(E), probably a kit for the rear 4 link that includes a weld on truss and precut control arms, I'd also like to build an addition for the rear to accommodate leafs in the back as well for those that just can't afford to link it yet... I'd still like to build a tube fender kit for the front (and maybe the rear) that can be an add on.... I've got lots of ideas, but we'll take it one at a time.

I'm pretty comfortable with the design, the lines are wicked looking in person. Like always, the pics just don't do it justice! I'd like to go ahead and sell a few to get some feed back, so if your interested, PM me for a custom quote for what you'd like added. The front end design will easily allow anyone to upgrade to a linked design instead of leafs, but if you have intentions of linking it from the beginning, I can make it have slightly more up travel and shock clearance by changing the design slightly.:smokin:

EDIT: There will be 4 more frame tie ins that aren't pictured... also keep in mind, all the diagonal bracing will be up to the buyer. This will leave the chassis open for many possibilities and the end user can build exactly to there needs.

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070495.jpg

Can anybody else imagine a narrowed version of this hood on there:D

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/1piece_2008_01.jpg

Man that is SICK! Just when I thought a tube chassis was out of reach for me, you come along!

Great work, really love the lines on this one...how hard would it be to get one of these to Washington state? :D

if i built a buggy it would look just like that, sick. good job

Man that is SICK! Just when I thought a tube chassis was out of reach for me, you come along!

Great work, really love the lines on this one...how hard would it be to get one of these to Washington state? :D


I've been getting shipping quotes for several people... If your within 15 hours of Kentucky, It's definitely cheapest to grab a buddy and plan a road trip. Shipping is crazy right now from fluctuating gas prices, but I'll work with people the best I can, there are several creative ways to get things shipped. Also, don't forget about the hauling section of Pirate!! A man with a pickup and small trailer could make a round trip and bring 3 to the West coast at a time..........


EDIT: I have a new shipping company that is really saving serious cash getting these things delivered!! Post up if you want a quote.

Your chassis looks really good, I am hoping to see your options/price list soon. I am interested in one with front leaf mounts, motor mounts, and the addition to the frame to use leafs in the back too. If I decided to do it, I would want to be able to basically strip my truck down and get a roller going quickly.

This will be considered "BARE CHASSIS" and the price will be $2600.
http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070495.jpg

I like the concept as it sits right now and I'm not trying to be the typical PBB dick by asking this but is it up to the end user to add frame tie ins? As it sits right now the entire passenger compartment is resting on 4 pieces of tube two of which are attached laterally to the frame. The A and B pillar aren't tied in anywhere but the "rub rail".

Yea... It will come with 4 additional tie in's to the frame, I just pulled it off the rack and to get some quick shots online. The way my jig is, I can't put the tie in tubes in until after the chassis comes off the jig.... they are going in today.


-Tim

I sent you a couple PM's with my specs.

Any updates?

First 2 are now sold..... :D If your intrested, let me know. I'll throw a few new pics up soon.


I have also figured out how to do leaf springs in the rear very easily too. Comes out to be aroud 104" WB if you do leafs on both ends.

-Tim

I know this would be a little difficult because you are bending the tube as you fabricate, but would you be able to do one without welding it up. Just a suggestion, but as you fab one up, you could bend up two and test fit everything on the one you are welding up. Sell the other as a (kit) for less and shipping would be significantly less. I would be really interested in that as i could weld it up myself (making a temporary frame jig) and save a bunch on shipping.

Looks awesome by the way!

I am considering this for 2010 XRRA. Maybe a Christmas present I start building in 2009

I just got back from his place, dropping my stuff off and let me say the chassis looks really good. He's got alot of ideas for it to be built many ways. It's a real cool piece.

Allen

I just gotta say Bent Fabrications new chassis design is really nice and his communication with potential customers is great. I expressed interest in the new chassis and immediately got a response to all my questions. I gave him all my information on what I want and it appears the new chassis will adapt to almost any configuration. I haven't committed to buying one yet, but if it all works out the way I want, I hope to soon.

I really appreciate all the compliments.

I know several people have bashed the idea of the 2x3 rails in our chassis, but we try to work with some common dimensions that we use in every chassis. By doing this, I've learned and taken notes from every build... essentially creating a "modular building block" (or platform) to build from. Based on my experiences building chassis, I think this is going to be about the most universal platform imaginable. I'm looking foreword to seeing how other people finish it out for sure... It's very obvious by the response to the chassis so far that others see the appeal of being able to build the chassis to multiple levels of performance. Some will start off simple with a single donor helping them build and make new mods as time and money allow... others will set it up with bypass shocks and the works right from the beginning. I can see two guys in the woods passing each other with shitty grins on there face as they realize they are in the same chassis... one built on a $6k beer budget, the other being a $60k blinged out version. Both looking awesome and having a good time in the woods regardless of the budget they had.

We are a very small shop and have stayed focused on building and designing cool rides... I'm anticipating some growing pains soon, but we are gearing up toward a new and bigger shop. I'm going to try to keep lead time down as much as I can... If anyone has questions, feel free to ask.

-Tim :beer:

I would like to have a in close-able cab buggy. with an option of 4 seats, and a heater!!!

south dakota ya know.


you don't need doors and windows for south dakota wheelin:flipoff2:

when will it be available and is the 2600 where it is going to be.

For the Bare chassis $2600 is the price. I'm going to keep it there for as long as we can, I want this to be affordable. The options will be reasonable as well. PM me about details for your specific build. Lead time is around 2 weeks to be ready to ship.

-Tim

A few pics of the fame tie ins.

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070536.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070537.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070538.jpg

I know this would be a little difficult because you are bending the tube as you fabricate, but would you be able to do one without welding it up. Just a suggestion, but as you fab one up, you could bend up two and test fit everything on the one you are welding up. Sell the other as a (kit) for less and shipping would be significantly less. I would be really interested in that as i could weld it up myself (making a temporary frame jig) and save a bunch on shipping.

Looks awesome by the way!

X2 I am interested in this option as well. Threre are two other guys I wheel with who would also be interested in doing it this way?

I would even pay full price for a non-welded "kit" just to save money on shipping.

I've looked into unwelded kits before... my attorney has prevented us from doing this because of liability issues. At this time, unwelded is not an option.
I do know of a way to potentially get these built as a kit... But the cost of CNC bending and notching from an outside source would make the "kit" cost more than a final product direct from me.

I'll work with everyone the best I can to get chassis delivered for reasonable costs. A chassis will easily fit in the bed of a full size truck... so it doesn't necessarily have to be delivered freight. I've even drove chassis myself pretty far to meet halfway for the cost of fuel to help people out. Shipping has come down a lot with the drop in fuel costs, which is also helping.

I've got a new Freight company that has been recommended, I'll see what I can do to get even deeper discounts to help...

Cool thanks for the fast response. Keep the updates coming, very nice fabwork sir.

So for the chassis that have already been sold, will those who bought be providing a buildup or are you (Tim) going to be building them for them?

Also the frame tie ins really bring it all together. Like was stated before it will be interesting to see how people build them and hopefully they will all be posted so we can all get ideas and see how these are built in different ways and with different budgets.

Sweet work!!! Keep em coming!!


-Jesse

I may be building one of them, but it will be a while before I get to start on it. I'm also planning to build one for myself to kick around in... Things will have to slow down some before I get time to do anything for myself... we are already working 16 hour days... The second one that has sold is to a close friend and will likely get put together in the shop so I can shoot pictures. I'm also trying to hook the first few people up with labor rates to allow us to put together a few rollers to shoot pics of...

-Tim

Moved to Vendor marketplace

Thanks Camo... I was about to ask if we could move the whole thread... I put it here to get a little feed back on the idea before we prototyped it out.
I think it's going to be a killer product.

-Tim

Looks badass to me :smokin:

maybe I missed it, but how much are they ?

The price is $2600 :smokin:

For the Bare chassis $2600 is the price. I'm going to keep it there for as long as we can, I want this to be affordable. The options will be reasonable as well. PM me about details for your specific build. Lead time is around 2 weeks to be ready to ship.

-Tim

Tim, I wish I knew you were thinkin about this a few months ago when we talked. I am sure that S-10 skins would fit just as easy.....I know you talked about the 22r, but what about us other guys that wouldnt be using toy stuff? will a 4.3 fit? what about V-8s? I really like the way this looks man, would be killer all linked up, V8, and some ZR2 skins!

The "frame rails" are spaced the same width that we use on all our V8 setups... Even a LSx / 4L80E / Stack monster box combo would fit! (with a Colorado or S10 front clip... that would be bad ass...)

Yes, a V6 or V8 will work and Yes, you can upgrade to an Atlas or Stak in the future if the need arrises... I thought to market to the Toy guys because I knew you could use one truck to be a donor for 80% the parts it takes to get you going...This keeps it affordable on a beer budget. Seriously, if you have enough money to buy a new 4 wheeler, you could buy one of these chassis and find a crapped out donor to get it completely going with a few upgrades. The Toy axles are strong and light and all the Toy components have tons of aftermarket support. However, the ideas in the chassis can be taken so much further with different "brand" clips used to match any drivetrane you want to use.

-Tim

Here's a quote from TEEJ from the name thread...

I origionally approached Tim about building me a bare chassis, based off of a rough sketch on paper that I sent him, kind of based off the Got Propane truck, as I wanted to build my rig similar to its first stage. The reason for this being my toyota frame had been patched/scabbed to much to warrant me back halfing it, and I didn't want to build a new frame for the cab. I decided to go buggy, so thats when I contacted Tim. He designed the new chassis you see here to incorperate my toy d-train, doubler set up, while allowing the appx wheelbase, height ect that I wanted. With an Ftoy, you still need a toy frame, and this would be a good out if your frame is clapped out. I'm just getting a bare bones chassis, but this drew alot of attention from toy guys wanting alot of add ons to the chassis to make it more of a swap over deal. That is where the toy attention came from, and the ftoy comments, as this chassis was origionally just going to be a bare bones deal, and for my application, will be getting leafs front and links rear. With all the attention it has gotten, and all the questions being asked about making it more marketable to toy guys, Tim is just trying to figure out ways to cater to the swap over crowd is all. This has been an evolutionary idea for Tim, not just "Hay, here's a toy chassis". In reality you can run anything you want, it just started off as a toy idea, and right now, its looking marketable to that crowd.

.

Matt

I just hooked up with a new shipping company thanks to Brian Ellinger at Diamond axles...
I'll be able to save over 70% off some of the previous quotes!!


For example.
My previous company wanted $1902 to ship from Kentucky to Spokane WA... right at 2000 miles.

The new company quoted $572. :smokin:



This should significantly help some of you guys out!! Post up if you'd like a quote or PM me with the specifics of your build if you want something extra done.

-Tim

The "frame rails" are spaced the same width that we use on all our V8 setups... Even a LSx / 4L80E / Stack monster box combo would fit! (with a Colorado or S10 front clip... that would be bad ass...)

Yes, a V6 or V8 will work and Yes, you can upgrade to an Atlas or Stak in the future if the need arrises... I thought to market to the Toy guys because I knew you could use one truck to be a donor for 80% the parts it takes to get you going...This keeps it affordable on a beer budget. Seriously, if you have enough money to buy a new 4 wheeler, you could buy one of these chassis and find a crapped out donor to get it completely going with a few upgrades. The Toy axles are strong and light and all the Toy components have tons of aftermarket support. However, the ideas in the chassis can be taken so much further with different "brand" clips used to match any drivetrane you want to use.

-Tim

Tim, sounds like you have this pretty well thought out. I am back to considering a buggy again.....LOL I cant make up my mind for shit. haha
Have you made any progress on this lately? I would like to see some more pics of this thing. maybe someone sitting in the driver seat? Looks like there might be enough room for my big ass (6'7" 265lb)? lol I have PRPs, so the pics of the chassis with those master crafts kinda helps out. it kinda looks like you could move them back a couple of more inches. yes?

Brian

Brian,

Believe it or not, MOST of the people that approach me for a build is a taller or bigger guy... This chassis has tons of room and flexibility in seat height and placement. The way I did the back of the tube work will allow the seat to be pushed pretty far back from where I'd say a normal person will set... giving some of us shorter people a little bonus storage... or allowing taller people the room to stretch out some. It is also very easy to make the roof a little taller without killing the lines of the chassis.

Ask anybody that has set in one of our buggies about how much interior room there ends up being... I've been building more of a "cab foreword" seating position than most chassis on the market have for a while... This gives quite a bit of extra room inside and combined with the setback of the engine, a very balanced buggy.

I do have a similar project in the shop right now and I'm working out some of the suspension possibilities that this chassis can offer...

-Tim

awesome man, I am looking forward to seeing some more pics. I would be linking mine if I got one, so seeing how the subframe and link mounts look would be nice.
What type of suspension are you using front/rear? tri 4 link? What do you think that buggy would weigh with V8, tons, 42s? prolly 3300-3500?

Brian

I need my fix :flipoff2: Anything new to report? The wife will kill me if she sees this but how much is shipping to 80917?

PM sent:D

Can I get a complete price shipped to 76112?


Thanks

PM sent:D

I've been working on some simple bracketry that will make setting up the 4 link VERY easy... If your running heims, the frame rails can be drilled all the way through and you can mount the heim inside of the rail. If you want to run a bigger joint, like the JJ shown, It's a very simple crossmember with 2 tabs welded in (still utilizing the frame for the outside mount). Hopefully I'll have the upper brackets set up to be laser cut and have them in stock. On the axle end, I can give the measurements of where the links need to be located, or I've been looking at a few different weld on truss setups. Making a few "kits" for different axles should be as easy as telling me what axle you have and what type joint you want. It's not all worked out yet, but I'm getting there....

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070556.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070558.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070571.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070567.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070568.jpg




Now, the simplicity comes in that the same crossmember can be used to locate leafs in the rear... placement will be determined by the leaf you want to run. Once you know the placement for your leaf and drill the hole in the rail, simply mount up the main eye of your leaf spring and your leafs will set flush with the skid to keep them out of harms way. I'm planning an add on "bumper" for the rear that will have the mounts for your shackles built in. Keep in mind running leafs will shorten the WB up to somewhere in the 102-106" range pending the leafs you have.

-Tim

4 link looks great! Chassis looks great! I was wondering if you would share some of your ideas regarding the spring hangers for the front leafs?

Thanks CJ

That is a really cool design. I really like the lines. I know its not quite what you are going for but have you thought about a model that actually could be mated to a Toyota frame ? I think your price is right on also..:smokin:

4 link looks great! Chassis looks great! I was wondering if you would share some of your ideas regarding the spring hangers for the front leafs?

Thanks CJ

There are several ways to do the springs in the front.

If you want a shackle reversal setup: I can put a crossmember in the front with tabs hanging down to mount the main eye into, then drill through the chassis rail and insert a sleeve and bushing that your shackle mounts to. I'd need to know some dimensions of the spring to locate the shackle.

Or, if you wanted a standard setup: A weld on spring hanger would be attached to the bottom of the frame in the angled part, and a sleeve can be drilled into the frame in the front for the shackle bushing....

Either way is VERY SIMPLE. I'll get some pics after the first one is done.


-Tim

That is a really cool design. I really like the lines. I know its not quite what you are going for but have you thought about a model that actually could be mated to a Toyota frame ? I think your price is right on also..:smokin:


I thought about it, but I feel this chassis has a lot of built in advantages over staying with the stock frame.

-Tim

I'm building a Truck for ZOOKER right now that is a great example of how dramatic engine placement is in the new chassis VS. where it is in the truck. If you'd like to see more of this truck, check it out here (http://www.pirate4x4.com/forum/showthread.php?t=450595). We built the bottom part of one of these chassis and set it up to be 3 link in the front and 4 linked rear, and set the engine in just like we would place it in a buggy...

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/Alen%20Tabor/P1070600.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/Alen%20Tabor/P1070578.jpg

Then we cut the floor and firewall out of a cab and sat it down on the chassis... take a look at how much farther back the engine is... no more endo's dropping off ledges:D

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/Alen%20Tabor/P1070602.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/Alen%20Tabor/P1070615.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/Alen%20Tabor/P1070620.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/Alen%20Tabor/P1070621.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/Alen%20Tabor/P1070626.jpg

-Tim

This is a sick ass build! Tim, how much would you charge a customer for the lower frame portion that your using for this build? This way they have the option to do this if that was the direction that their wanting to go. Once again awesome build:flipoff2:

zooker.....i'm jelious!:mad3::flipoff2:

Selling just the bottom part would be doable... but there are so many variables in the truck cabs between all the years, it would be difficult to set up the lower C (rub rail) to fit the cabs. I'm willing to do them on a one off basis like this one, but I need the truck here to build around. Of course price is all pending on how much you would need me to do..

"I like cars that were essentially designed by one man, or where one mans personality, vision and influence clearly dictated the result..." -J Leno

I agree with Leno... when I get to execute an entire vehicle, the results are dramatic. I think it's part of why I like doing cage work and buggies so much. The style and lines put into the cage work, combined with the right stance... completely transforms the vehicle and gives it an identity with personality, not just a cage. Some will choose to buy a bolt on part... other will leave the shop with an Icon for the offroad community to look up to.:flipoff2:

-Tim

Alright, from this thread (http://www.pirate4x4.com/forum/showthread.php?t=723560)... I have decided on a name for this new chassis.

It will be known as the "EVOLUTION GP" chassis or the EVO GP for short.

I think the name has meaning on multiple levels and fits this chassis well. The inspiration came from 2 fellow PBB members. Rugburn mentioned it should be called the "GP chassis" giving tribute to the GOT Propane buggy the original inspiration came from. Then Mr. Stubs stepped in and said "Evolution Chassis" (your trucks next evolution step). I think the 2 names together are a perfect combination that is descriptive of the chassis and has a small story behind it that gives credit where it is due.:beer:

-Tim

Quote for one set up with 4 link front and rear with JJ shipped to 95351 with fork lift one my end.Thanx

Thanks... PM sent

These are great..how about:

GP Evolution

or

Evolution GP?

Alright, from this thread (http://www.pirate4x4.com/forum/showthread.php?t=723560)... I have decided on a name for this new chassis.

It will be known as the "EVOLUTION GP" chassis or the EVO GP for short.

I think the name has meaning on multiple levels and fits this chassis well. The inspiration came from 2 fellow PBB members. Rugburn mentioned it should be called the "GP chassis" giving tribute to the GOT Propane buggy the original inspiration came from. Then Mr. Stubs stepped in and said "Evolution Chassis" (your trucks next evolution step). I think the 2 names together are a perfect combination that is descriptive of the chassis and has a small story behind it that gives credit where it is due.:beer:

-Tim

Woo hoo!! :homer:

I hope you have a lot of success with this chassis, Tim, and I hope to see lots of happy users flogging it on the trails!! :grinpimp: I'd be seriously considering one of these if I weren't halfway through an FToy build.

:beer:

Woo hoo!! :homer:

I hope you have a lot of success with this chassis, Tim, and I hope to see lots of happy users flogging it on the trails!! :grinpimp: I'd be seriously considering one of these if I weren't halfway through an FToy build.

:beer:

Thanks MT4Runner... I should have mentioned you put the 2 together at the same time we did.

Your only half way... ditch that thing:flipoff2::beer:

I like the idea, it's cool that you are running with it.

Any updates on that body?

I like the idea, it's cool that you are running with it.

Any updates on that body?

There are several of these lined up to go out the door as bare chassis and rollers... And a tremendous amount of inquiries. The interest is definitely there.

I do have a really big build lined up with one of these chassis that will set an example of how bad ass it can be. I have some huge plans for it and a good size budget to work with too. But I have a few other buggies to build first.

Most of the people interested in this chassis have expressed wanting it set up for King of the Hammers. With the huge amounts of up travel and additional space it offers, I think it will be a great platform for KOH style racing and wouldn't be surprised to see at least 5 of them in the 2010 race...:smokin:

I'm definitely going to pursue making this chassis one of our major players and working on products designed specifically for the chassis including several different hoods and side panels for different "brands".

-Tim

damn you for coming out with this after i cut mine up!

Any pictures of one of these complete? Need my fix man more pics.

There are two of these getting built... one on the cheap for the woods and one for next season of XRRA:D I'll let everyone know whats going on soon. I'm in the middle of two other builds before I can focus on these.

Building the truck for Allen gave some good insight on how this chassis can work, and the amount of travel that can be achieved... I'll be focussing on this linup hard very soon, but I've got a full plate at the moment:D

-Tim

Sweet on the two builds....

i have a 1984 4Runner waiting in the wings......

i like the pick-up lines. sets it apart from all the other tube buggies.

would you sell the blueprints?

How to properly carry a spare tire for KOH..."in the bed" :D

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/KOH%20EVO%20GP/P1090693.jpg

Please note that this is not a bare chassis... it was special built for XRRA and has extensive mods to make it stronger.
If your intrested in one of these chassis to race with, we'll set one up just for you as a "KOH edition":D if you'd like to see more of the buildup of the one above check it out http://www.pirate4x4.com/forum/showthread.php?t=746952

Tim, as always, I am impressed. What tire is that? I do not recognize the tread pattern.

The tire is a 42" Pitbull Rocker


-Tim

Do you have any design ideas or sketches about your "rear bumper" to incorporate shackle mounts for leaf springs?

To me the beauty of starting with leafs all the way around is that you take you current junk, transition it over to the new chassis and run it, then as funds allow you could put the rear 4 link in. Even though it depends on the spring width I feel like with proper planning you could design the front mount exactly how you have you JJ mount, then all you have to do is pull the leaf spring and stick the JJ right back in the same mounting tab. Perhaps this is how you had it planned?

Anyway looks great, I would love to have one but funds wont allow until after Uncle Sam gives me my hard earned tax dollars back. Then I may be in touch.

Also anymore build progress pics?

Do you have any design ideas or sketches about your "rear bumper" to incorporate shackle mounts for leaf springs?

To me the beauty of starting with leafs all the way around is that you take you current junk, transition it over to the new chassis and run it, then as funds allow you could put the rear 4 link in. Even though it depends on the spring width I feel like with proper planning you could design the front mount exactly how you have you JJ mount, then all you have to do is pull the leaf spring and stick the JJ right back in the same mounting tab. Perhaps this is how you had it planned?

Anyway looks great, I would love to have one but funds wont allow until after Uncle Sam gives me my hard earned tax dollars back. Then I may be in touch.

Also anymore build progress pics?


Your hitting the nail dead on the head. The way I built the crossmember for Zukers rear lowers is the exact same way to locate a leaf back there. If it gets setup to run leafs in the rear, making the change to links will be very easy. It turns out the JJ is the same size as most spring eyes and you probably won't even have to relocate the tab to make the switch:smokin:

The rear bumper idea is sound, but there are SO MANY VARIABLES in springs that people are running to determine location of the bumper and crossmember. I think the idea would be to make the bumper mount in a "range" on the rear of the chassis and then adjust the front crossmember to the correct distance before tacking it in... As this gets developed further, hopefully I'll be able to offer it as a kit to do it yourself. But without the resources to all the different springs to make jigs from I'll work with each person individually for there needs. I was thinking if you anted me to set up the springs for you, just send the springs front and rear to me and I'll send the chassis back ready to bolt up your axles.:D

You can see in the pics how easy it would be to have a leaf in lace of the JJ.

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/truck%20chassis/P1070556.jpg


-Tim

Price on the EVO GP set up for links front and rear to 76205? There appears to be extra tubing from the first pictures and the one from post #841 how to carry a spare tire for the KOH. If so are these extra?

Price on the EVO GP set up for links front and rear to 76205? There appears to be extra tubing from the first pictures and the one from post #841 how to carry a spare tire for the KOH. If so are these extra? PM sent for pricing

I think you mean post #174

That was a buildup of the same style chassis... though it has extensive changes for XRRA and endurance type events. I'm going to consider it a special "KOH edition" of the EVO GP and will work with competitors on a one on one basis for those that are serious about going fast...

You can check out more of that buildup HERE (http://www.pirate4x4.com/forum/showthread.php?t=746952) if you missed it.


-Tim

how much for a chassis if i come pick it up?

how much for a chassis if i come pick it up?

I've got one of the basic chassis's setting here right now..
$2600 with no additional options will load it in your truck.:D

-Tim

Price on a chassis with 22re motor mounts and leaf spring mounts front and rear?

Oh man I love this thing.... I think when the time comes I'm going to do the same sorta setup half buggy half truck. Might have to look into one of these chassis when the time gets closer. Only thing is I need to seal it all up for winter wheeling up here in Canada... Might have to put a truck cab on like that yota build up. Any way sweet fab skills and Bad Ass chassis.

Price on a chassis with 22re motor mounts and leaf spring mounts front and rear?

PM sent

Oh man I love this thing.... I think when the time comes I'm going to do the same sorta setup half buggy half truck. Might have to look into one of these chassis when the time gets closer. Only thing is I need to seal it all up for winter wheeling up here in Canada... Might have to put a truck cab on like that yota build up. Any way sweet fab skills and Bad Ass chassis.

Thanks! Let me know when your ready.. I can show anyone how to completely tub out this chassis and even have a windshield and removable soft top... drop in a Mojavi heater and hit the snow:smokin:

-Tim

Tax money burning a hole in your pocket?
I have one of these in stock and ready to ship!
Price is still $2600 plus shipping.:grinpimp:

If your bored you can read about the one in the back ground HERE (http://www.pirate4x4.com/forum/showthread.php?t=746952)

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/KOH%20EVO%20GP/P1100051.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/KOH%20EVO%20GP/P1100054.jpg

what part of ky are you in, close to harlan?

He is in Georgetown.

I'm just above Lexington in Georgetown
The Zip here is 40324... I'm about 2 miles off of exit 129 on I75.


-Tim

Any updated pics of any of these that are more finished out. May me interested...

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/KOH%20EVO%20GP/CIMG1215.jpg

Sweet!!!

What type of mat'l are you using for the rectangle portions of the frame? 2"x3"x3/16"? Not hating, just curiuos, 'cause I think that is a very good idea and easy to go off of that for the talent challenged builders. :D

Fn sick

What type of mat'l are you using for the rectangle portions of the frame? 2"x3"x3/16"? Not hating, just curiuos, 'cause I think that is a very good idea and easy to go off of that for the talent challenged builders. :D

2x3x11 guage... but without the cage properly supporting it, it will flex.

-Tim

I've got one setting here ready to ship....
It could be at your door by the end of the week :D

-Tim

How much for one of these set up for a 22re, front leaves, and rear 4-link? price for same set up but with rear leaves too? shipped to 78654
Thanks,Chris

any luck with sales on these?
Read on Marlin BB of a guy savin up $$ for one:)

A few have gone out the door... I'm pretty sure another is going out the door next week. Those that are in line to be built are all racers though. I really thought the base model would be selling more than it is?

Look for a press release soon about a new endurance style roller package I'm putting together that will include a slightly revised EVO chassis, Super14 rollers (from Portal-Tek) front and rear and complete tuned Fox Coilover/bypass setup for all 4 corners. The intentions are to offer a proven roller with massive travel, strong components, and good looks, that will give a major jump start to anyone wanting to put a team together and try there luck at some endurance racing:D I have two lined up that will both be pretty high profile due to start in October. One of them will be featuring the very first front housing out the door for Portal-Tek :smokin: More on this soon!

-Tim

A few have gone out the door... I'm pretty sure another is going out the door next week. Those that are in line to be built are all racers though. I really thought the base model would be selling more than it is?

Look for a press release soon about a new endurance style roller package I'm putting together that will include a slightly revised EVO chassis, Super14 rollers (from Portal-Tek) front and rear and complete tuned Fox Coilover/bypass setup for all 4 corners. The intentions are to offer a proven roller with massive travel, strong components, and good looks, that will give a major jump start to anyone wanting to put a team together and try there luck at some endurance racing:D I have two lined up that will both be pretty high profile due to start in October. One of them will be featuring the very first front housing out the door for Portal-Tek :smokin: More on this soon!

-Tim
some things are selling, some are not.
damn economy:(

some things are selling, some are not.
damn economy:(

We pretty much continue to get calls daily on higher end builds, but the small cheaper stuff continues to set here. However, I bet there have been 8 inquiries in the last week about the basic chassis... I would guess people are starting to gear up for winter projects:idea:. The bigger projects are pushing lead times out right now though, so any one interested might want to shoot me an email so we can start working you in the books!

-Tim

Here's a few pictures of Scooby's getting race prepped for a TREC race at Badlands...

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/KOH%20EVO%20GP/P1110169.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/KOH%20EVO%20GP/P1110175.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/Bentfabrications/KOH%20EVO%20GP/P1110183.jpg

A few have gone out the door... I'm pretty sure another is going out the door next week. Those that are in line to be built are all racers though. I really thought the base model would be selling more than it is?

Look for a press release soon about a new endurance style roller package I'm putting together that will include a slightly revised EVO chassis, Super14 rollers (from Portal-Tek) front and rear and complete tuned Fox Coilover/bypass setup for all 4 corners. The intentions are to offer a proven roller with massive travel, strong components, and good looks, that will give a major jump start to anyone wanting to put a team together and try there luck at some endurance racing:D I have two lined up that will both be pretty high profile due to start in October. One of them will be featuring the very first front housing out the door for Portal-Tek :smokin: More on this soon!

-Tim

Sounds like some killer projects. Must be some lucky fucker's. Can't wait to see the thread on them. ;)

A few have gone out the door... I'm pretty sure another is going out the door next week. Those that are in line to be built are all racers though. I really thought the base model would be selling more than it is?

Look for a press release soon about a new endurance style roller package I'm putting together that will include a slightly revised EVO chassis, Super14 rollers (from Portal-Tek) front and rear and complete tuned Fox Coilover/bypass setup for all 4 corners. The intentions are to offer a proven roller with massive travel, strong components, and good looks, that will give a major jump start to anyone wanting to put a team together and try there luck at some endurance racing:D I have two lined up that will both be pretty high profile due to start in October. One of them will be featuring the very first front housing out the door for Portal-Tek :smokin: More on this soon!

-Tim

This still happening? Would love to hear more on this.

Yes... I still have some parts coming in and we are just a little behind, but these two will both be getting started in the next few weeks... There will be a build thread for them in the General section. I'll post a cross reference in this thread as soon as I launch it.

:grinpimp::grinpimp: -Tim

Thats a sick lookin buggy ...or truggy ...or what ever you call it ... very sweet...

every time i log onto pirate it make me think of all the possible ways i could sit a little more level as my wallet gets thinner...

Nice rig. How high is the belly on this thing? (Sorry if previously posted I just noticed the rig in a video in the Harlan trail pics thread and thought it looked like this chassis.)

Last part of the vid..

Harlan, KY on Vimeo (http://vimeo.com/7278189)

Got any final photos etc?

Nice Video. Thanks for sharing!

That last rig was Scooby...In that video the rig was completely outfitted out in race trim and the skid is around 17". It should have been set around 19" but the springs have settled in and it's time for some adjusting. It will be coming back to the shop soon for some more upgrades including bypass shocks for the rear:smokin: I'll get some current pics of it when it comes down and update his thread. ( http://www.pirate4x4.com/forum/showthread.php?t=746952 )

Motor was finally tuned the week after that video was taken... it had a fouled plug in that video. Should sound race ready next time anyone sees it:D

For anyone that has seen this rig, It definetely works both slow and fast.. Sad part is, I've only gotten to drive it on the road and around the parking lot:shaking:. There should be some video of it at Badlands for the TREK races with it high enough in the air to see the concession lights between the rig and the ground:D If anyone has any TREK video's post them up on Scooby thread.

Anyone put one of these together with leafs up front yet??? Really like this chassis, would love to get one but no money right now:mad3: Is the frame width in the rear the same as a toyota truck frame??

price on one of these set for a 4 link rear and 3 link front to 66441. gonna run air shocks on it

bump

I see it says spending time with kids...

Still selling Propane/ truck chassis?

Your PM box is full.

Thanks

Still selling Propane/ truck chassis?


I have one left that I have in storage right now... I had some plans to outfitt it with a lightweight TTB 35 front end with 44 outers and a fabricated 9" rear for a fun prerunner... But, I'd be willing to sell it off as the bare chassis before I Invest anything into it. It could be the last one I build....

Email me (Tim@BentFabrications.com) if your intrested.

-Tim