XTM xlb 1/7 scale buggy build

[CerberusVI]

I recently picked up a XTM XLB 1/7th scale buggy on a whim, I got a really good deal on it and it came with a two bags full of extras and spares. I soon started tearing into stuff and trying to find out about the weaknesses of the buggy. My plans are to make it brushless with a MMMv3, Castle 1520 1600KV and 6s lipos. I already have my electronics set aside, but waiting for other bits and pieces before that part.

I learned the chassis is prone to flexing, This is the 1st thing I'm addressing!
second, XTM used planetary style diffs apposed to the spider gear style and the stock 2 speed puts a lot of stress on the diffs because its essentially direct drive.

I started off by digging through my box of Mugen MBX5T and MBX5R spares and came up with some interesting tid-bits... The mugen steering top plate was almost the same dimensions, So after some dremeling and drilling the m3 holes to m4 sized screws. It normally uses holes in the top plate to mount the front body post, The mugen on i had already had holes milled in it so i took a scrap piece of CF and made a plate to sandwich underneath the body post. Works great!





After i got all the steering sorted out, i went after the chassis bracing. It normally uses a set of turnbuckles and rod ends, but i already knew that this wasnt going to be strong enough. I Dug through my box of xlb spares and my mugen box again and came up with this;





A little more dremeling and a 2 more countersunk holes in the chassis and i was able to mount a set of MBX5T chassis braces pretty easily. Took me about 45 mins of thinking, dremeling, drilling to get it all situated. But i was still a little leery of the chassis flex, I know you dont want a stiff, hard as a rock chassis, you do want some flex for traction. But it was still a little to much to my liking.

I then came up with this idea...The diff top plate has a mounting hole in the rear for the rear brace and 2 in the front...so i flipped the plate around!




This is where I'm at so far, I still have to take off the rear hinge pin retainer and modify it for a second rear brace and drill the chassis. I feel it's come out pretty good so far! Sorry bout the pictures, they aren't the best. Took them in the heat of the moment with my phone because it was already sitting there. Anyone has any feedback let me know!

I'm also looking for a set of LST2 threaded shock bodied shocks!