Serpent 950 Competition 1/8 On-Road Racer

[StevePond]

The ‘950’ is Serpent’s all new entry into the highly competitive 1/8 scale arena. It represents decades of technological development combined into one sleek, simplistic racing design. Serpent has established itself as the world’s leading manufacturer of gas powered on-road r/c cars. The ‘950’ will continue Serpent’s World Championship heritage.

Special Features:
New front suspension geometry and adjustable roll centers
Battery mount directly under the fuel tank for ultra low center of gravity and polar moment
Fully integrated carbon chassis stiffeners
Single pivot steering system with adjustable servo saver
New 125cc fuel tank with ‘AFL’ tank lid
Ultra lightweight 2-speed gearbox
Centax II clutch, lightweight and with larger bearings
Rear shock tower with new body support centering system
4-step adjustable shocks with new key-type shock rod system
3.5mm rear pivot pins, for increased durability

Part number:#SER 902000
Price (street price) $ 650.00 (kit only, no engine)

[StevePond]

Although the 950s aren't hitting the shelves just yet, they're on their way, so I figure it's time to open up the discussion. Post away! :D

[Backfire]

I believe I heard that many shops received a kit today. And I do mean "A" kit, one for each. Although I hear Bruckner's got some preferencial treatment, they got two kits!!:D

[StevePond]

A whole two kits?! LOL!

[kakolitoy]

I always like the 2000 Vector. The 950 is about the same of the V series.

Easy to manange,tune , and acces in internal parts. The big development was the chassi itself it is really balanced. Also the new 5/10 thrust bearing. Those bearing are really precise like the Kawahara centax.

[Backfire]

Originally posted by SteveP
A whole two kits?! LOL!

That is also the total number that was shipped in the whole Dallas-Ft Worth area!! I wonder what some of those kits would bring in on EBay??:D

[kakolitoy]

Originally posted by Backfire
That is also the total number that was shipped in the whole Dallas-Ft Worth area!! I wonder what some of those kits would bring in on EBay??:D

Not soon.

IT will be a while. This car has lots of potential in the worlds this year. It is really easy to work on.

Lets wait for the results in this coming FL. Winternats, and we will see how much potential this car will have in OHIO.

[Backfire]

Originally posted by kakolitoy
Not soon.

IT will be a while.

I wasn't saying it will be a bad car. With availability as poor as it is, I was stating that you could probably turn around and sell a kit for quite a bit; if, of course, you were willing to give up being the first one in your area to have one and wait for the second wave.

[WillJ]

After the Veteq, I wouldn't pick up a new 950 kit until its second model year when Serpent comes out with a fix-it kit. It will probably be a good car. I sure hope so; my Vector 98 is due for a replacement.

[kakolitoy]

Men!!

It looks like my old Vector to me. Just a awesome modifications

[kakolitoy]

There are ways to make ur Vector to 950.

1. Chassis (902140) and Radio plate (902150)
2. Front bearing block (92o201, 202)
3. SErvo saver assembly (902131, 32, 33, 34,35).
4. Tank 902110
5. Brcaket aluminum standard (902165), the upgrade one is for the push rod suspension.
6,.950 does not have aluminum pullies, but u can buy a set of Aluminum pullies for a Vector series in Coloradorc.com (look for JIM awesome guy).

I like the 950 so far, so I was thinking of turning my beloved Vector to a 950.

For the Veteq owners: good news there a lot of parts in the veteq that is interchangable w/ the 950. I love my veteq too, In my opinon, Veteq performs better than 950, Vector series, and NT. I was really patient w/ my Veteq and it did work great for me. For some reason I can turn faster w/ the Veteq than 950. Probably it winter I have not run the car that much yet. Will just wait in the Fl. winternats how the 950 will perform

BTW: I am in the process of modifying, I will keep updates if the project will be a success. It is hard to test in the winterchills

[kakolitoy]

The rear parts are almost identical. There is just a little bit difference, but not much to change. U do not even have to change it. The rear assembly is good enough. I would its the same w/ the Vector NT. However, 950 cured the Vector's belt stiffner. 950 has better sidebelt stiffner.

BTW: sorry about the pics above I have to make the pics smaller to make it fit, so the resolutio decreases also.

[Stalker911]

kakolitoy:

Glad you said you like the Veteq! Cause me and my buddy just bought 1 each!

If that a C5 I see in your car?? How do you like it? I'm still a little tossed up between trying out the RB (never used one) vs going with the NovaMega EVO4 (or 5 maybe) that I know and trust.

I'm just playing with it also, no races around here

[kakolitoy]

Originally posted by Stalker911
kakolitoy:

Glad you said you like the Veteq! Cause me and my buddy just bought 1 each!

If that a C5 I see in your car?? How do you like it? I'm still a little tossed up between trying out the RB (never used one) vs going with the NovaMega EVO4 (or 5 maybe) that I know and trust.

I'm just playing with it also, no races around here .

That is not a C5, its a C4 w/ some modifications. The C5 is a good motor.

In my opinoin, Evo5 or Evo4 from Nova mega M.S. has more consistency in power. I have better performance w/ Novamega and Novarossi motors so far.


Now, if u want to go overboard. Try a .21 JP modified Rx race.

In case, u need more stuff. I get most of my stuff in Asia and Europe.

Let me know I might be able to help u.


RE: Veteq.

The only I don't like about the Veteq is, it is so hard to go inside the car. Eventually, u will race that car and if something brakes it takes a little bit of time to change the parts . There are a lot of things u can do in the Veteq and u need to be patient to get the car running the way u want it to.

Set up: I followed Micheal Salven (MYTSN.com) and some of my own. I have more control of my Veteq than the rest of my 1/8. Also, I try to be really careful running the car.

[r1sportbike]

I'm thinking of picking up a 950 this week.

What I need to know is what upgrades to but to be competitive and have less maintenance.

I also need to know if I can use or convert my RB C5 buggy motor to the on road version.

[kakolitoy]

Originally posted by r1sportbike
I'm thinking of picking up a 950 this week.

What I need to know is what upgrades to but to be competitive and have less maintenance.

I also need to know if I can use or convert my RB C5 buggy motor to the on road version.


For the 950

U need just the front suspension to turn it into push rod, U do not even have to do that the car will be great straight from the box.

RE: C5 do not do it, u will spend more. If I were u just start fresh and buy a new on road motor.

Nova mega evo5, Novarossi race R1, Jp modified
Novarossi Race, C5 colari or rody modified.

I have couple 950 if ur interested.

[r1sportbike]

How much for the 950?
Where are you located?

K

[ragamuffin]

Originally posted by r1sportbike
I also need to know if I can use or convert my RB C5 buggy motor to the on road version.

Using an off-road .21 buggy engine for on-road use takes a bit more than swapping out the head and button. On-roads generally have a shorter stroke and more timing adavance than their off-road cousins, which generally have more stroke. This equals more torque in order to get those heavy single-speed buggies moving.

[LeeMuse]

I have a 950 and it has been to the track 2x since I got it. My previous recent cars have been a MRX3 (last year) and a SMP SLide (the previous 4 years). Both were great cars but the 950 in my opinion a better car. It is easy to drive and responds to adjustments. On my first day at the track with the 950 I was able to tie my single best lap time ever and this was on the 5th tank of fuel with a brand new car. NOTE - I usually run 30% but I was out so I was running 20% when this happened - also the track was cold and there had been no sugar water applied.

I am going to the track this Sunday and I want to try the car with out the 3mm shim that spaces the upper front mounting point down to see what this will do. I also want to experiment with rear shock position and overdrive ratio.

I will post what I learned.

Lee Muse

[kakolitoy]

Originally posted by LeeMuse
I have a 950 and it has been to the track 2x since I got it. My previous recent cars have been a MRX3 (last year) and a SMP SLide (the previous 4 years). Both were great cars but the 950 in my opinion a better car. It is easy to drive and responds to adjustments. On my first day at the track with the 950 I was able to tie my single best lap time ever and this was on the 5th tank of fuel with a brand new car. NOTE - I usually run 30% but I was out so I was running 20% when this happened - also the track was cold and there had been no sugar water applied.

I am going to the track this Sunday and I want to try the car with out the 3mm shim that spaces the upper front mounting point down to see what this will do. I also want to experiment with rear shock position and overdrive ratio.

I will post what I learned.

Lee Muse


Lee,

my Lola body is it coming soon, U should recognize who I am. I am also trying to modify the vector V series to 950. There is a way but I did not finish it yet.

[smurf1122]

does anyone know has fast this serpent 905 can go out of the box

[Stalker911]

It depends on motor and tuning and gearing of course, but out of the box with a good motor it should be able to go 120km/hour ++

[kakolitoy]

Originally posted by Stalker911
It depends on motor and tuning and gearing of course, but out of the box with a good motor it should be able to go 120km/hour ++ .

What's up stalker its been a while. I break my motor yesterday. Mega evo 5 M.S. Great motor a lot of torque especailly I can lean it out because its too cold outside. I put on my old vector. This motor is really powerful.

BTW: I would never go back to RB again.

[Stalker911]

Hey man!

Glad you like the EVO 5! I was thinking of getting that one, but I got sent my C5 Rody before I had actually confirmed that I wanted it... so I just kept it and figured I would give it a try! Hope to hell it works good cause it was a PILE of money!! Actually cost me more than my Veteq did!!!

[kakolitoy]

Originally posted by Stalker911
Hey man!

Glad you like the EVO 5! I was thinking of getting that one, but I got sent my C5 Rody before I had actually confirmed that I wanted it... so I just kept it and figured I would give it a try! Hope to hell it works good cause it was a PILE of money!! Actually cost me more than my Veteq did!!! \\


Hey!!

did Chad sold his Veteq?

If I only knew I would have buy it for parts.

[Stalker911]

Hey!!

did Chad sold his Veteq?

If I only knew I would have buy it for parts.

No no, he didn't sell the Veteq, just the Serpent run in bench, a one piece pipe and a few other little things

[kakolitoy]

Pls. anyone wants to share pls. do so.


This car is really easy to set up and has the great features of the Veteq.

Its really a great handling car. I am really happy of the centax II and the new 2 speed gear box. I think this new clutch system gives the car extra push compared to old Centax.

I am Running the car stock just differnt set up and made my driving easy and faster, what more If I put the pushrod and stiffneng the front suspension.

I even run this with a Novamega evo 5 M.S. and Novarosi RS21.

This car is ballistic!!!! :cool:

[offroadcrazy01]

I am thinking about buying a 950 to race do I have to buy a c5 to0 keep up or can I win with a rb s7 engine is it a huge diffence

[WillJ]

If you want to go fast, spend your money on tires not engines. The S7 is the better choice if you've never raced 1/8 before. You'll be able to better use the power and it's more economical to learn about head clearance and tuning on a cheaper engine.

[nitrodude_1]

how fast to the perents 905 go and how much u pay for a stock one

[StevePond]

It's a "Serpent" and the model is "950" With a good competition engine and standard gearing, it'll get into the high 60s, maybe just a touch above 70. With car, engine, high-end radio, good servos, exhaust system and body, you're probably looking in the ballpark of $1500.

[Stalker911]

You Tell em Steve!! :D

kakolitoy: What's up? How are you liking the 950??
Chad ended up selling his Veteq and now that I have no one to run with I'm going to sell mine as well. :( Oh well.. it was a fun 15 tanks of nitro

[Accord]

Hey guys, few questions:

1) Do you run fail safes, and if so, which brand?

2) Where is the best place to route the servo wires to the receiver on the 950?

Thanks

[kakolitoy]

Originally posted by Stalker911
You Tell em Steve!! :D

kakolitoy: What's up? How are you liking the 950??
Chad ended up selling his Veteq and now that I have no one to run with I'm going to sell mine as well. :( Oh well.. it was a fun 15 tanks of nitro

Sorry for the late reply!! I did not had connection for a while, and I was little bit busy racing and taking my cousin around town (She will be here for few more months visiting). I like my 950 but I like Brain Berry's 950 better.

I raced in WN in the Midwest series. I did really poor and bad. I will try to get some points in the next MWS in Chicago.

Anyway , before you put your car in ebay pls. let me know what is included. I am in a shopping mood. I turned down my parents when they offer me a trip to France and Italy. I can use some of the cash to buy more RC products hehehehehe!!!!

[offroadcrazy01]

Has any body ran a os-zr.21 in there serpent if so how did it hold up to some of the more costly motors there does not seem to be many 1/8 on road racers were are all the 1/8 racer

[StevePond]

I'm runing a Sirio on-road engine with the aluminum sleeve. Gots gobs of power and the engine isn't even fully broken in after about a gallon and half of fuel. I haven't run the O.S. engine, but I'm interested to try it. I have the buggy version (VZ-B) in my Mugen and it's strong. I would imagine the VZ-R is competitive and ROCK SOLID.

[catdaddy]

Originally posted by StevePond
I'm runing a Sirio on-road engine with the aluminum sleeve.

I have the same engine, but I'm having tuning problems. can you tell me what would cause fuel to spit out of the carb where the filter goes??????

[offroadcrazy01]

I was wondering what do you do after these 600.00 $ engines like jp race and the 400.00$ nova mega see about 4 to 5 gallons of nitro.Do you just throw them away or do you just keep on rebuilding them .Just want do know what I got my self into.

[joedodge]

Hello to all,

I have a real interest in buying a Serpent 950 after having had a few nitro 1/10 scale cars. I am wondering the best way to learn more about these higher-end motors and what it takes to tune them. Also about setting up the 950 for better response on the track. Is it vastly different from 1/10 scale or do the same basic principles apply? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

[kakolitoy]

Originally posted by joedodge
Hello to all,

I have a real interest in buying a Serpent 950 after having had a few nitro 1/10 scale cars. I am wondering the best way to learn more about these higher-end motors and what it takes to tune them. Also about setting up the 950 for better response on the track. Is it vastly different from 1/10 scale or do the same basic principles apply? Any help would be greatly appreciated.



Hi!

Honestly, 8th scale is easier to drive than TC or 235 cars. Its more faster and that is the time you step up a little bit in your skills. Th 950 is very easy to set up compared to the previous models. Basically, try to set up the car stock, like in the www.Mytsn.com and feel your car @ the track. I am not sure how big and smooth is your track. I suggest that you change the set up of your car @ your local track. Hudy is a must in this car. You can pass on the tire truer for right now, but not the hudy set up for this car. The best way to learn this car is to practice and race this cars as much as you can. Do not worry about breaking a part or parts that is part of studying and feeling your car. Replacing parts is a good practice especially if you start racing with a 30 min. main.

Hope this help and have fun racing.

BTW: Be a ROAR member and participate in their races its good practice and great learning.

[joedodge]

Kakolitoy

Thanks for your resonse. I quess the size and speed makes me think it is going to be alot different but it is good to hear that it is not the case. I really like the way these cars handle and the intense attitude of racing at this level. I have read alot of your posts so it makes me feel more comfortable about stepping up having read your post. Any thoughts on motors for the 950? RB Concepts or Nova Mega? Maybe Sirio as Steve Pond suggeted? Thanks again.

[kakolitoy]

Any thoughts on motors for the 950? RB Concepts or Nova Mega? Maybe Sirio as Steve Pond suggeted? Thanks again. [/B][/QUOTE] [/QUOTE]


All of the motors mention above is very good. Honestly, if all of this motors above I will pick the Novamega MS. The M.S. edition is the cheapest modified motor out there. If you are really serious about racing, you will see almost most great drivers use a modified motor. Rb modified motors will cost @ least $500. Sirio modified collari @ least around that ball park also. The M.S. edition evo5 is around $400. $400 for a modified motor that is cheap enough and also can win a lot of races too. The most important thing is to break in the motor right and take care of them as much you can so it will have a longer life.

[DUMMIECHASER]

hey guys
ive had a gt4 for a while and now i wanna purchase a 950.i saw a lot of videos of serpents in races and they were going about 80mph i wanna see if mine can do the same as well.i wanna start racing with the other big boys at a track in brooklyn.i hear its huge.well guys i wanna get a Novarossi .i think thats the best brand of engines.which type of novarrossi do u think i should get?and i would realy wanna know if it would reach that speed of 80mph or not.and i gatta know how much its ganna cost me.I wanna join one of those roar or other big organizations so i could race more .
thank you guys :D

[offroadcrazy01]

http://www.shopatron.com/product/product_id=TRNRX21R1WC/158.0

[DUMMIECHASER]

thankx dude



doesnt anyone else wanna help me ????thats messed up guys i thought this was a community.:confused:

[davinci]

hi guys, im planning to buy a 950 for next summer but i have a dilema in engine selection, i wont be into formal racing (since where i live there's no such thing like that) therefore the engine options i have are not high end engines like nova mega or jp, but i think i will do fine with any of them

so here's what i have in my shoping list so far

serpet 950 (obviously :) )

O.S. .21 VZ-R (http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXBPG4&P=7)

Sirio .21 On-Road Pro Racing Engine (http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXCKY1&P=7)

NOVAROSSI RX21R1WC (http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXDUH7&P=7)

i like the numbers on the sirio but the fact that is AAC construction kinda don't like it :o

so i was really thinking on the novarossi (also has a nice purple head :D )

and for the pipe i have in my list this one:

Novarossi 9886

so i would like to know about these engines to pick one up, the only thing that pulls me away from the sirio is the construction, i really like the hp (wich is important for top speed) and the mas rpm, but i dont really know how much will it last since i have no experience with it

the os i have it because you cant go wrong with an os engine, so if any of these 2 engines are lesss forgiving in the tuning maybe ill go with the os

i hope you can help me out

[r1sportbike]

I just bought a 950 team kit and the 950R front end upgrade.
Are there any other upgrades I need to make this car competitive and easy to drive. I would like to get everything before I begin to build it next week.

Also do you guys buy a second kit for parts or set-up two seperate cars for racing?

[Gyro Gearloose]

Originally posted by r1sportbike
I just bought a 950 team kit and the 950R front end upgrade.
Are there any other upgrades I need to make this car competitive and easy to drive. I would like to get everything before I begin to build it next week.

Also do you guys buy a second kit for parts or set-up two seperate cars for racing?

I just did the very same thing, and I'm thinking about getting a second kit for a back up/parts car.

I'm looking at O.S., I know it'll be solid with that engine(It's an O.S.:) ). I have no idea what pipe to run yet though.

What's a decent body and where can I get it?

[WillJ]

r1sportbike

I've tried having two cars set up and ready to race and for me it's too much work. It's easier just to focus on one car. I'd pick up a second kit if you're racing, though. It's nice to have the spares. The second kit is nice too because it comes with the clutch so you can have your spare engine ready to go.

Gyro Gearloose,

The Delta 1/8 body is a good choice - it's a little thin, but it's cheap and runs well. It's a little hard to get it cut out just right because it's not marked for the Serpent, but if you make a template out of cardboard for around the engine, it makes it a lot easier. Ashford's got them. www.ashfordhobby.com

[Gyro Gearloose]

Hi Willj,

I don't see the Delta body on that site but I'll look around some more. I did find Serpent USA and ordered up a few things I'll be needing, anyone know how they are for shipping? Hope they don't keep me waiting long.

Still looking for an engine, I'm not in any "hot bed" of 1/8 road racing, I don't need the kind of power that I know dang well I wouldn't know what to do with right now anyways.

I have a new in box RB Econo.:rolleyes: I guess I could use that. I did find the RB S7C at acehobbies, that might be a little better choice I'm thinking. I'm undecided at the moment, I might blow the extra C note and get a Novarossi or something comparable....

Lets see, I'm getting fired up now, I got a new starterbox, battery and charger, new receiver today for it. Things are starting to pile up here....:p

I have to get a move on and finish up a few details on my Hyper7 buggy and clear the table so I can get started building this thing.

[WillJ]

The Delta body's not on their site, but they've got them. I'd stick with the engine you've got for right now. Better to learn how to tune and how to drive on a cheap engine.

[Gyro Gearloose]

Great! The H 7 is off the table for now and my tools and one way lube from Serpent USA are due here Friday.:cool:

Alright, no need for that body for a while yet. I did locate another kit for a price I couldn't turn down, I have spares for everything now.:D

Hey, my guy with the front end conversion sent me the lay down servo kit instead, I told him it was cool if he wanted to just let it go at that, he said "fine".:D I think the lay down servos will do me more good than adjusting the wheelbase for now anyway, I can get the front end kit whenever, I do have the pushrod front end coming anyway, don't know if I'll mess with that right off though.

I agree, the RB econo will go as fast as I'll need to go for a while, I can drive pretty well, just never driven 1/8 on road. I did find the O.S. I'm looking for, no hurry to use it for a while though.;)

Grrr, I have a buddy yelling in my ear that I'm going to be burning up Centax II thrust bearings every time I run it, I'm getting tired of his yapping, any truth to this 'story'? :confused:
http://img9.photobucket.com/albums/v27/lola_gt/27862420.gif

[Toyotatogo]

Anyone know the release date on the Novamega SX-21 EVO-6MS ?

[Gyro Gearloose]

No idea, Toyotatogo.



:mad: Serpent USA made a mistake, no one way lube in my package today, no one way lube means no building.:mad:
http://img9.photobucket.com/albums/v27/lola_gt/14489.gif

[WillJ]

You have to provide the one-way oil yourself.

[Gyro Gearloose]

I know willj, I ordered the one way lube and a couple other things(tools mostly.) from them.


I bought my 950 kits from another place.


They've not answered my inquirey as to why it wasn't packed, either. http://img9.photobucket.com/albums/v27/lola_gt/Smilies/72dcff69.gif
No 800 number means I'm not calling them long distance over a $8 item. I really hope they make it right soon, I don't feel like calling up Visa over $8 either.:p

Well, no building going on now. Guess I get to play Real Race (just got it), not as much fun as building cars or driving for real though. :rolleyes:

[Pacoson]

hey there!

I am in the gathering info stage of 1/8th on road.

I have been looking into the MRX3 but now the 4 series will be out soon.

I have no manufactor loyalty at this point.

I do own a Trinity Reflex, Hyper 7 pro and too many aircraft

I do not race but have the race ready modles if I ever choose to.


My question is you are able to help out is:

What reasons are there to buy the serpent over the Mugen?

price is close for the 950R where is your best on-line store and /or forum to discuss.

Thanx

[Gyro Gearloose]

Hi Pacoson,

I am not really qualified to answer your questions.:(
I do know that both brands are well supported, Serpent by Serpent-USA.com and I don't know who all supports the Mugen but I know that nitrohouse.com carrys them, and the line of parts and upgrades.
There are many on-line shops that carry both such as the ashford hobbies that willj has shown us.

I wasn't aware that a mrx4 was on the way, if you're going Mugen I guess I might wait, I don't know.

It comes down to driving more than anything else I suspect, you probably won't be any faster with a Mrx4 than you will with a Mrx3(unless you're a very good driver.).

I would choose by what brand name you like the sound of the best as I have a feeling both are of very high quality and satisfying to build and drive.:D

I am also very new to these 1/8 road racing cars, you will find out along with me how the 950R experience goes by following my posts here.:)

[Gyro Gearloose]

Back to Serpent usa and my one way lube, they mailed me back yesterday and took care of me.:D


Oh, I ran into a deal I couldn't turn down, I just bought a fullblown 950R(new in box kit), a Novamega EV5 KHM(New in sealed box..wow!:eek: ) for a fantastic price.

No worries willj, that KHM will not see any running for a good while, it's the RB economy for me. I need to learn the ropes first.;)

http://img9.photobucket.com/albums/v27/lola_gt/Smilies/comic12.gif

[WillJ]

Send the KHM this way; I'll show those boards who's boss. About that one-way lube, my kit didn't include it. Did Serpent send you a bottle on their tab?

[Gyro Gearloose]

Send the KHM this way; I'll show those boards who's boss.
Ha Ha!http://img9.photobucket.com/albums/v27/lola_gt/Smilies/winknudge.gif






About that one-way lube, my kit didn't include it. Did Serpent send you a bottle on their tab?
No willj,
I knew the lube wasn't included in any of their kits, so I ordered a bottle to be ready for building when my car kits arrived. They just missed getting it in the package with my other stuff.




Anyways, I'm all set, mostly. I have just about everything but the body, and I need to find a charger that can handle the AAA Rx pack(I don't think I can trust my 959 with those AAA cells), but no big hurry for those yet.

Dale

[Gyro Gearloose]

What's the technique to threading those shock ends on the shaft? I can get them about halfway on the threads by doing it the way they show, but they ain't going any farther using that method.:p I don't want to nick or scratch the shafts. I need two millimeters because they're all too long by about that much.

http://img9.photobucket.com/albums/v27/lola_gt/Smilies/smilie_fensterputz.gif

[Gyro Gearloose]

Nevermind about the shock question, I got the short ones set at the correct length, I'll do the long ones after my fingers stop hurting from trying to twist the ends on to the shafts (they're just undersized and that's all there is to it), maybe in the morning.:p
I would say the shocks so far were disappointing in a kit of this quality and price, Serpent could do better in this area. Not just the ends but the piston parts being on sprues(Trees like in a plastic model car kit) and requiring the flash and little nubs to be trimmed is BS. I did get all four shock pistons to be very smooth in the bodies, I guess that's what counts......but still....ugh.:p

On to the one way assembly, servo saver and transfer shaft and pulleys, as I expected, very good quality and ease of assembly.
This is the kind of building that's very enjoyable.
If the rest goes as smoothly I'll be quite pleased. I'm sure there will be a couple more hitches along the way but after the shock difficulties it's going swimmingly now.:)


Stay tuned...
Dale

[Gyro Gearloose]

wo0T! My back up car/ spare parts 950 kit came today.:D


More building progress:
Front lower arms, they were both pretty smooth when I test fitted everything, but after full assembly with the front anti sway bar and hingepin setscrews they have a very slight hang up somewhere, nothing too bad and I'm sure after a short time running it will loosen up.


Anyways, it's on to the rear assembly, this is a little confusing as the diagram isn't as helpful showing how the brake caliper and rotor goes together. It's not hard, it just doesn't show it very well.

Back tomorrow if I get any further in the build.
:)

[Gyro Gearloose]

Okay, after sleeping on it I've decided to disassemble the front lower arms to find and fix the slight bind, it is very slight, maybe not enough to worry about but I think I'd better try at least.
I think a slight sanding at the ends where the hinge pin runs through will fix it.
We'll see.:)


Not sure if I'll be able to work on it today, I have some running around to do.:rolleyes:

[Gyro Gearloose]

I guess I'm talking to myself here.:p

A little more progress tonight, removed the front lower arms and touched up the ends as I mentioned before up there^, smooth now, the arms drop all the way with no hitches.;)

On to the rear assembly. :p :p :p, this had me scratching my head, I was staring at those two pins that brace against the lower part of the caliper for a while before I realized that they were roll pins and I had to beat them into the chassis.:p
And the holding pins for the caliper, they sure went in easy from the other side of the right rear fixture, could of saved about 30 minutes if the arrows in the manual showed that way instead of the opposite.:rolleyes:

LOL! Oh well, the next 950 will go together fast compared to this one.:p

So anyways, I test fitted everything and I'll lock it all together tomorrow.

Getting closer, will start looking like a car soon.:cool:

[Gyro Gearloose]

Yup, I'll just keep talking to myself then.:p

Maybe someone will read it some day and tell me I did it all wrong.

More building:
Working on the rear upper and lower wishbones, I've fiddled and touched up, and trimmed and sanded little bits of flash, but there's still a slight bind in one of the lower arms.http://img9.photobucket.com/albums/v27/lola_gt/Smilies/smiley-headscratch.gifIt's not real bad, if I move it up it does go all the way down, it just takes a few minutes.:p I guess it'll have to work itself loose from running.

There's a lot going on back there anyways, I'll just try to make sure everything is as free as I can get it.
http://img9.photobucket.com/albums/v27/lola_gt/Smilies/trink22.gif

[Gyro Gearloose]

All bolted up in the rear, looks good.:)

Except the turn buckles for the sway bar links don't fit in the ends.:mad:

Tried tried and tried till I got carpal tunnel.:p I don't know....they need drilled out a little, maybe. I'm done fiddling with it for now, trying to twist little parts with my big paws kills me.:p

[Pacoson]

At least your having fun with the build.

I'm trying to sell a Reflex NT to come up with the other 1/2 for a 950r

keep up with the posts! Your talking to yourself BUT you got readers:D

Jon

[Gyro Gearloose]

A ha! A visitor.:D

Hello Pacoson.

You know what? I'm having a blast building this car.:D

I haven't built a car in years, last one was a Tamiya electric car. This one isn't a whole lot different, just bigger and much more robust, in fact things seem so heavy duty to me it's almost scarey thinking about the stresses it's designed for. :eek:
I know it's going to be a blast to drive.:D

More:
When I bolted everything up(upper and lower arms) with the rear bulkhead all the binding went away, they're smooth as can be now. ~shrugs~

I have the rear carriers/pillow balls and hubs/wheel retainers all assembled, maybe I'll get a chance to bolt them up to the car later tonight. I say 'car' because it's obvious it is a car, now.:)


Dale

[Gyro Gearloose]

It's supposed to be a decent day here today, I'm going to take my 1/8 buggy out and start it for the first time this year if it gets past 40 degrees out there.

More building on the snake later this evening I hope. :)

[Pacoson]

I have found Ashford Hobbies in CT to be one heck of a 8th scale store. took me a few visits to the website to realize they are about 1hr away:D

Nice to have the LHS carry the high end stuff!


Well tax money comes soon and it's been a good winter workwise
Mabe I'll pick up the 950r soon.

What with the kit do you suggest?

I read earlier about 1 way lube?


Jon

[Gyro Gearloose]

Hello, Jon.

Nice to have the LHS carry the high end stuff!
Wow, it sure would be.:p

Ashford is nice, I might be placing an order there soon, I haven't decided on a body yet.
One way lube? After looking at it I'd say it was gun oil, although it might be formulated differently. The Ashford site swears by it, though, to make an ailing one way work again.
I would suggest you have high quality #0 and/or #1 phillips drivers(I use the #0 more, you might like the #1) , you don't need Hudys or Snap Ons, just good ones. A lot of aluminum phillips head screws in the 950 kit.

A good set of hardened allen drivers, a set of L's come with the kit but a driver would be best, especially for the smaller two sizes.
I wouldn't know anything about having to drill one head off of a small bolt and digging a spare from my back up.:o
I still don't have 'real' good allen drivers, I might splurge to get some Hudys or similar soon.




I'm curious, I remember your earlier post up there^where I tried to answer your questions, and I've read the whole discussion for the Mugen too. What made you decide on the 950R?


Dale

[Pacoson]

I decided on the 950r by reading the 5+ forums and the Very few
people who wrote about them. (they seemed content)


My Mugen MT12 for my Trinity had a problem and it took me many HRS to figure it out. I tried to contact Mugen 6 to 7 times to no avail, to me their website is only about buy buy buy and NO suport.

with a LHS close that sells and carry parts for both I chose the 950r.

So you need a body also to go with the kit!

[Gyro Gearloose]

Correct, no body in the kit, just tires/wheels.

Willj mentioned a delta body from Ashfords. I have no idea what it looks like, he said it was a little thin though and I want something durable(I'm uncertain what to do, yet).
I can't paint(no talent:p) so I'll end up with a one color body with decals, most likely. :o

950 building:
Didn't get much done today, I did get the rear antiroll bar links together and hooked up. Got the rear carriers bolted on but not all the way in yet.
I should have a couple free hours tomorrow to make some decent progress.


Dale

[Gyro Gearloose]

A beautiful day out here just outside of Chicago, and I'm stuck inside.:p
Could be worse, at least I'm building my snake.:D

Progress:
The rear is all buttoned up, installed the dogbones(with a small amount of white teflon grease) carriers and sucked them(pillow balls) up to 19mm for now, will set the rear geometry on my set up board when I'm finished building.
Rear shock tower, and rear floating body mount(pretty cool) all done.

Top plate time:
The fuel tank was a breeze, time to install the servos and radio next.
I'm going to be using two Hi-tec 925 analog servos on my car, 103 ounces of torque and .08 seconds to 60 degrees. I think torque is important but speed is also very important to me and these are the fastest metal gear servos Hi-tec makes. I'll be using my brand new JR XS3 systhesized radio(I can't see spending the $ on a M8 since I'm not, nor will I likely be a serious racer any time soon.) with the RS300 synth receiver, I hope they are up to the task.:)

Back later tonight if I get any more done.


Dale

[Gyro Gearloose]

:o I was fooling around trying to mount the steering servo in the box/mount or whatever it's called and I decided to relieve a bit of plastic and poked my thumb with an exacto.:o

Not bad but right on the end, so I'm done for a few days until it heals a bit. It would have to be right on the tip so I can't work with it.:(

Oh well, I think I'll try to run my 1/8 buggy again tomorrow, should be in the 60's here.:)

[Pacoson]

Ouch!



Painting a body two tone is fun


I used regular maskong tape and put in on the inside bodypainted peeled and painted 2nd color

check it out.

[Pacoson]

and inside

[Gyro Gearloose]

Hey, you drive a Hyper 7! Me too(PBS):D


I like that paint job, it looks good.:cool:

Maybe I'll try, but I don't have hardly any experience painting bodies.

[Pacoson]

I got the PRO


With a Hyper 21 8 port race version

[Pacoson]

buggy

[Pacoson]

Hey Gyro,


How's that finger doing?

Any new progress on the build?


I purchased a Nova-Mega EV1 and am about to order the 950R kit

Hope all is good.

[Gyro Gearloose]

Hey Jon!

I'm alive, my thumb is healed, I think those shocks put a hurtin' on my carpal tunnel though, my left hand has been killing me ever since the initial fight with them.

I went on a search and found a great set of shock shaft pliers from a place called rogue elements, I just got them today, they are fantastic! They grip the shock shafts(No slipping!!) perfectly. Well worth the money for me. If you don't already have some kind of shock tool these would be worth a look.

I haven't been building my 950 because of the pain:(, but I think I'm ready to go again. :)

I still haven't picked up a body yet, I'll have to decide soon. I don't have a whole lot left on the car to build.


Lets see...Radio, upper front arms/hubs etc, two speed tranny and the Centax, then squaring up the mounts with the RB bolted to them. Not much left really.

I'll post later on today if I get a chance to do any building.


Dale

[Gyro Gearloose]

Man, I've been slacking!

But have been working on the car some, not much because my hand is healing slowly.:p

I have the servos installed, front upper arms, aluminum front brace and rear bracket for the top deck.

Another slight problem, the front retainer bracket for the battery pack is a little fragile, mine snapped before the screws were close to bottomed out.:mad:
I'll have to dig the one out of my backup kit, I'm not very hopeful as it's flimsy, maybe it had a flaw, I don't know. Easy enough to make one that's stronger, if I have to.:rolleyes:

Anyways, I'm up to that, I'll be ready to bolt the upper deck on tonight, I think.

:)

[Gyro Gearloose]

Oh, I picked up a pipe, too.:)

RD Logics 61800 in line header and pipe. (Comparable to the RB Concept 9886, which I don't feel like paying for.:p)

It looks good and the price was right, hope it works okay.


http://img9.photobucket.com/albums/v27/lola_gt/carmechanic.gif

[Pacoson]

sounding good!


Just a while longer and the outside temps will be ready for the maiden break-in for you.


Still no purchases here yet, though I got that EVO1 allready:D

I've been having second thoughts with the 950R though.

A Veteq kit New but built with an Evo4 and tons of stuff for a good price might just make its way here instead

Waiting on the postman to bring the taxes back :)

[Gyro Gearloose]

Ooh! A Veteq huh, they're still supported for two more years, I think.
More difficult to work on because of the inboard suspension and far more fragile, don't hit anything at all or it will be bad($$). Quite difficult to find the sweet spot for handling set up too, I've seen a short video where M Salven's (The designer of these cars) talking about it.
If you're a good driver and a whiz at setting up a car you'll do alright, it's a light very good handling car, but that's why it's so fragile.

I haven't been building, I've been waiting on some tools, I have a new set of Integy hexbit drivers.

My 950R with the EVO5KHM deal fell through.:( :p

I've ordered the parts I pilfered out of my back up kit, and the Hudy set up tools that I didn't have yet(Droop gauge and support blocks).

Oh, I have a Lola VDS body on the way.:) Will end up one color most likely(Something easy to see).

And, a brand new O.S. Max VZR is coming in the mail for when I'm ready to go faster.;)

http://img9.photobucket.com/albums/v27/lola_gt/checkered_md_wht.gif

[Pacoson]

I ended up getting the Veteq It should be here on Monday or so.

Now I got 2 motors for it a SX-21 EVO One and Four both new.

Which one to choose...:D

The car is coming with alot of spare parts, and I just recieved 4 pair of front tires from E-Bay today.

Stocking up!

[Gyro Gearloose]

Woo hoo! Great! I'm sure it will be awesome!:D

Tough decision on the motors, I think if I planned on racing I'd learn on the EVO 1 for a while and then switch it to back-up(ready to go with it's own centax so you can swap quick.).

Lets see some pics when you get a chance.:)

[Pacoson]

actually pics are here on this board!

http://www.radiocontrolzone.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=160758

[Gyro Gearloose]

Sweet!

My brother's going to race a Veteq this year in his Roar region(VA.). It'll be his first year in any real nitro racing. :)

[Needler56]

i just picked up a serpent 950, where is a good place to get parts?

[kris lim]

hi, i tryed starting a thread about the new serpent 960, but i don't know where it has gone?

later
proud owner of a 950r

[KENCHOCO2]

well lets try again...

[Rookie Solara]

Who can spot a picture about the new 950R rear roll center conversion kit...SUS1000? I just want to know what is that thing look like....thanks

[kris lim]

how long has it been out? for, what do you think it will do for the car? (maybe make the lower rear wish bones more level?)

[Rookie Solara]

how long has it been out? for, what do you think it will do for the car? (maybe make the lower rear wish bones more level?)

What Brian Barry told me is that made the car turn in much smoother, smaller turning diameter, and the rear are more stable....it is a must have for 950R.

Of course, he doesn't need it now....SUS1000 came out around FEB 2005, not too many ppl knows about that....and ppl does not need to know about that now because of the 960....and Brian is running his 960 for next week Detroit race.