BORIS 6x6x6 Tamiya Bullhead

[MelvinsArmy]

I've wanted to make a 6x6x6 Clod/Bullhead for years. I happened to have 3 complete Clod gearboxes in my stash, then I happened upon a Sassy (as I later found out, Sassy clone) on eBay and the project began. First the chassis, this is a very nice chassis, although I don't think it's a genuine Sassy. The aluminum is slightly thicker than any Sassy Clod chassis I've owned, but for a project like this I didn't mind it being a knock-off, as the beefier aluminum is a good thing. I decided to four link the whole thing, and put 4 Associated shocks on each axle. Motors are 3 Tamiya Sport Tuned. Nothing too crazy, I'm not looking to make a land missile with this one, although gearing is taller than stock to give it some go. All three axles have Tactic HD/MG servos. I also have a PDI Turbo Zeta that I want to use in this, as they are kind of the ultimate old school Clod upgrade. Plus, I can run two six cell packs no problem. I haven't figured the Zeta out yet, so for now it's running on a Novak Super Rooster and one 6 cell pack. Eventually I plan to have extra bells and whistles on this thing, working lights, maybe a horn, who knows. It's controlled by an 8 channel Airtronics surface radio, so I kind of want to go crazy using up those channels with cool stuff.

It is 6 wheel steering as well. Figuring out the center axle was a real pain in the rear, but I did it. It required a custom made servo mount and steering linkage, and some modified shock mounts. The two rear axles steer together and the front axle is on its own channel. So, I can do front axle only, rears only, all axles turning for a tight turn, or all axles crab walking. FUN!

I decided to go with a plain bed. I can always make something if the urge strikes. I did make a platform to hold a JBL bluetooth speaker to crank out some tunes though! I still need to figure out some tie downs for it. I've been thinking maybe a small 8 beer can cooler for the bed maybe, then I can drive it around the backyard and deliver beers to people. The cab was chopped a bit to lower it on the chassis. I'm not a fan of high sitting bodies. The bed was made from sheet styrene.

I've decided to name it BORIS. Since it's based on a Tamiya Bullhead and Bullhead is the name of one of my favorite albums from one of my favorite bands (Melvins), and Boris is the opening track to that album. A song so good that another band named themselves after it. It's a massive song, this is a massive truck.
[youtube]s9wq-34xyeE[/youtube]

Initial mock up:

IMG_4554.JPG (111.76 KiB) Viewed 2155 times

[MelvinsArmy]

Boris-3.jpg (197.72 KiB) Viewed 2154 times

Boris-2.jpg (185.98 KiB) Viewed 2154 times

Boris-3.jpg (197.72 KiB) Viewed 2154 times

[TamiyaTony]

That truck looks fantastic. Nice and clean, and the bed is just perfect. I really dig this build because it looks purposefully built and professional. I like the idea of the beer cart, but I would be cautious because you might end up rattling the cans a bit too much. kaboom.

[andymac0035]

That is just awesome!.... and it's going to have the turbo zeta!..... love it!

[Sixtys Guy]

That is awesome! I am thinking of building one too. The sassy clod chassis looks good, but it is a lot of $$$, especially once freight to Aus is added. I think I could make something decent with some aluminium angle.

[rknaub]

Pics of the center servo mount, or it didn't happen!!!

Looks good man, I like the bullhead body.

[SFC K]

Nice looking truck! I really like how you lowered the body. It looks much better than the stock ride height. Looking forward to seeing a video of you delivering some suds to your buds.

[weeb_beano]

Melvin! You're in Brooklyn now... a bit closer to me I'm out in Queens.
Anyhow this build is super clean and I really like it. Especially the speaker mounted on the back