Coelacanth wrote:I'm interested in your project, too. Can you consider some method of adjusting the front shock tower angle, because the original Optima could've used more camber to improve the understeer-on-acceleration issues. The original Optima's only camber comes from the slight kickup angle in the front gearbox and in the C-hubs.
I assume you mean Caster, and if so...there isnt a great way to do so. The gearbox would have to tip and then the chain/belt wouldnt enter and exit properly. The kickup in the nose is on-par with most 4wd buggies (although some are completely flat too, like the YZ10) and the carrier does the rest. The two caster blocks that were sold were the only means of changing caster and will probably remain that way on mine (but we can always shapeways different degree blocks)
Coelacanth wrote:I like how you incorporated a better shock tower with wing mount...both OEM front & rear shock towers were notorious for their weak design and always bending. The front shock tower was always a weak point, especially that middle section where it narrows down.
yup, that was my goal there too, its not the strongest way of mounting but will be much stronger than stock
Coelacanth wrote:Another good thing to consider is a way to implement some kind of Lexan under-tray, perhaps one from a LWB Mid.
im a big fan of the Optima Pro body and tray, which should fit fine. Not sure about others tho. TOMS undertrays should bit with a little work
One thing I didnt mention is the front brace and bumper mount are gonna be gone. Two goals here- most are bent to hell anyway, and I think a plain old race bumper will suit it better anyway. I want those tires to dig if they happen to hit the ground first!