Schumacher 4WD Menace Truck Forum

[KrisP]

Hey guys I have a used Menace, I might consider parting out if there is enough interest.

[Monsterbrad]

Krisp
Hello about the used Menace get some pics on here or send them to me at ExExCR@aol.com.
I might be interested.
hey rock???
let us know how the drag race goes with the 2 trucks I would think that the Menace would be faster with the 4wd and all.

[KrisP]

Monsterbrad- Ill get some pics up shortly. If I get enough interest in parts,Ill definitely part it out. It is complete minus electronics and is missing 1 rear dogbone and universal. Most parts are in great shape, a couple new, and some in fair but not pretty shape. I will also sell whole for a $280 or so shipped to the US.

[KrisP]

Here are some pics I already have. If anyone needs specific pics, just ask.

http://images.snapfish.com/33%3A5%3B66323232%7Ffp46%3Dot%3E2328%3D3%3A8%3D529 %3Dxroqdf%3E23234%3C8%3B95%3A66ot1lsi
http://images.snapfish.com/33%3A5%3B66323232%7Ffp46%3Dot%3E2328%3D3%3A8%3D529 %3Dxroqdf%3E23234%3C8%3B95%3A67ot1lsi
http://images.snapfish.com/33%3A5%3B66323232%7Ffp46%3Dot%3E2328%3D3%3A8%3D529 %3Dxroqdf%3E23234%3C8%3B95%3A68ot1lsi
http://images.snapfish.com/33%3A5%3B66323232%7Ffp46%3Dot%3E2328%3D3%3A8%3D529 %3Dxroqdf%3E23234%3C8%3B95%3A69ot1lsi

[the rock]

Krisp
Hello about the used Menace get some pics on here or send them to me at ExExCR@aol.com.
I might be interested.
hey rock???
let us know how the drag race goes with the 2 trucks I would think that the Menace would be faster with the 4wd and all.

well the advantage I have is that I can choose bell gears... I can fit any three of them.. from the high acceleration to the high speed bell.... my goal of course is to try and make it quicker than the menace and fast enough so the menace cant catch it in a 100 yard dash!!!

[DodgeRamSRT]

hey Dodge... did you convert your .21 GT with New Era? I also have one but added the 3-speed... its as quick and as fast as the menace... well its really hard to tell... but im doing some mods to the GT to get it setup right and I will do some vid on some drag races....
No, LOL! I hacked mine together. I got a new .21BB off ebay for real cheap, modded a Savage spur gear to fit, RRP gears in the trans, a Savage fuel tank (160cc), and rearranged the servo/fuel tank/radio locations, used a Savage manifold and stock pipe from my MGT for rear exhaust. It won't quite keep up with my Menace, and has a definate left side weight bias, but it's fun to drive. Goes through alot of tires! Put the whole thing together for about $200.00 with stuff mostly off ebay and a spare Traxxas radio system I had. I put it together about a 2 years ago, and with the exception of the first spur gear rubbing through the a-arm (too wide and a slight wobble), and one very nasty crash, it's been very dependable.

[DodgeRamSRT]

Monsterbrad- Ill get some pics up shortly. If I get enough interest in parts,Ill definitely part it out. It is complete minus electronics and is missing 1 rear dogbone and universal. Most parts are in great shape, a couple new, and some in fair but not pretty shape. I will also sell whole for a $280 or so shipped to the US.
Where were you when I was looking for a Menace (sob, sob)?

[the rock]

No, LOL! I hacked mine together. I got a new .21BB off ebay for real cheap, modded a Savage spur gear to fit, RRP gears in the trans, a Savage fuel tank (160cc), and rearranged the servo/fuel tank/radio locations, used a Savage manifold and stock pipe from my MGT for rear exhaust. It won't quite keep up with my Menace, and has a definate left side weight bias, but it's fun to drive. Goes through alot of tires! Put the whole thing together for about $200.00 with stuff mostly off ebay and a spare Traxxas radio system I had. I put it together about a 2 years ago, and with the exception of the first spur gear rubbing through the a-arm (too wide and a slight wobble), and one very nasty crash, it's been very dependable.

thats great dodge... any chances of some pics? :)

[DodgeRamSRT]

I'll see if I can get some pics and email them to you.

[Monsterbrad]

that truck looks pretty goog in the pics I would keep it and run it this thing is a blast to drive just lots of power.
Any way anybody looking for a savage?
Mine is up for SALE
Steering up grade 2 newer bodies
stock servos included
radio will be needed
new rear dif
masher tires and stockers too
truck is clean and nice
300 will buy it

[alfaracer]

I stripped the standard steering-servo.
So I have to buy a new one, but it should be a good one and not too expensive.
I suppose not to buy nylon gears again :confused:
Which one would you guys recommend (brand and type please) and why?
thx

[doesgo]

A decent, cheap, strong servo with metal gears is the Hitec 645MG. Something like 130 in/oz for $40 on Tower. It's not that fast, I think it's got a 0.20 transit time, but it's good enough unless you're a hard-core racer.

[DodgeRamSRT]

I'm using a JR Z590m for steering. It's metal gear, 85 oz/in with a .15 transit time. It really works great in this application. $40 - I've got the Hitec 645 in my MGT and works great in there, but it's a little slow. I'd rather have the quicker response in something that's cruising this fast.

[CRSMP5]

i used a hitech 625mg servo its faster then the 645 and has more then enough torque for the little menace.. cost 25ish..

[Monsterbrad]

I also use the z590m jr servo works great with the 1100 reciever pack.
Also has anybody had clutch problems????
Mine is smoked broke right off the pins and jammed in the clutch bell!!!!
Whats up with this I don't get it this is another clutch in my 2 truck in like a month.
The savage smoked one now the menace and this thing is so light
What the heck????
Hey rock any input would be nice on this one
you love your menace

[alfaracer]

thx for the info
still I've some questions about the Hitec Metal Gear:
I have found the follwing, and wonder which one you guys refer to:
5645MG digital , speed 0.13, torq: 6,8
545 MG , speed 0.17, torq 5.5
5625 MG digital, speed 0.18 , torq 12.1
525 MG , speed 0.12 , torq 3.9
the digital ones have lots more torque, but the cost is almost as twice.

So, which one I should choose? I only do backyard-bashing, no racing.
but I hate stripping servo's.

[the rock]

I also use the z590m jr servo works great with the 1100 reciever pack.
Also has anybody had clutch problems????
Mine is smoked broke right off the pins and jammed in the clutch bell!!!!
Whats up with this I don't get it this is another clutch in my 2 truck in like a month.
The savage smoked one now the menace and this thing is so light
What the heck????
Hey rock any input would be nice on this one
you love your menace

monster I havnt had that problem... yet!!! :p but all I could think of is that the clutch spring became undone. Therefore melting the shoes right into the bell gear. Check the clutch assembly on a regular basis, along with the bearings. And when putting the spring on make sure it gets a good
"snatch"!!! :eek:

[Monsterbrad]

Hey Rock ...
Nope my clutch bearings were good I think that the clutch is just cheap plastic and they don't hold up to good or my spring got worn.
The clutches are on back order they are supposed to be in next week, but we'll see.

[04suby]

hey guys. got a few ?s. Hoping you can help me out. What is the easiest way to check the gear mesh. Also, is the clutch adjustable. I only have about 8 tanks through my menace and it seems as if off the line the clutch is slipping some. is that how they are or do I need to adjust something. Anything else I should be checking on the truck regularly other then all the screws. Thanks again guys

[DodgeRamSRT]

hey guys. got a few ?s. Hoping you can help me out. What is the easiest way to check the gear mesh. Also, is the clutch adjustable. I only have about 8 tanks through my menace and it seems as if off the line the clutch is slipping some. is that how they are or do I need to adjust something. Anything else I should be checking on the truck regularly other then all the screws. Thanks again guys
A couple things to check/keep an eye on. Make sure the nut holding the transmission gears on is tight, and make sure there is no brake drag. Both of theses things may possibly lead to premature failure of the 1st gear hub. Go easy on the brakes as if you heat them up too much you may melt the 1st gear hub. As for setting the gear mesh, it's a little harder on a 3 speed, you need to make sure the mesh is right for all 3 gears (they need to be square). Basicly you should be able to put a piece of regular paper between the gears (trans and clutchbell) and still turn them without too much resistance so the paper would come out looking like this /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\ . Some people have been able to adjust their clutches by trimming a little material off the shoes to make them lighter which would make the clutch engage later - doesn't sound like what you're looking for though... Hope this helps. Enjoy your truck, this things a blast! :-0

[04suby]

Ok thanks a lot. I wasnt sure how hard it was to adjust gear mesh. had no idea how to go about doing it. Thanks a lot. Was playin with the truck a little bit today and broke the front a arm. good reason to get aluminum ones. How much are the a arms a set through schumacher. Thanks again guys

[Monsterbrad]

I posted a little while back that the clutch in mine was smoked and thats what it started to do. It seemed like it was slipping at first then once it got hot it was good. Then it just blew up,pins ripped right through the clutch shoes and now its sitting waiting for the clutches to come in at Schumacher they are on back order............

[DodgeRamSRT]

Ok thanks a lot. I wasnt sure how hard it was to adjust gear mesh. had no idea how to go about doing it. Thanks a lot. Was playin with the truck a little bit today and broke the front a arm. good reason to get aluminum ones. How much are the a arms a set through schumacher. Thanks again guys
Not sure how much the alu arms are. I think you need to call Schumacher to get prices and to order - couldn't find them on their website.

[KrisP]

I hate you guys, its all your faults :rolleyes: . Ive decided to buy me another Menace. I miss my old one. It was too much fun.

[DodgeRamSRT]

I hate you guys, its all your faults :rolleyes: . Ive decided to buy me another Menace. I miss my old one. It was too much fun.
:) Welcome back, we knew you'd come to your senses :)

[Monsterbrad]

I was going to sell this truck to get a GS SUT but I ended up getting rid of the Savage cause the Menace is just to much fun besides the fact that it smoked the clutch already and the bearings but that seems to be the norm recently cause the GS truck just went through a set right after break in...
WHATS THE FREAKIN DEAL HERE??????
Schumacher says the cluthces are on back order.
I might buy 2 when they come in just to have a spare on hand.
Oh well Welcome back to the menace club here on rc zone:-)

[kilobit]

I just got my menace last weekend and it is awesome. I was really impressed with the quality of parts. Here are some pics of it brand new. I also have some videos of it running with the MGT but i havent edited them yet. I will post the videos and pictures on the forum www.42L.com if you want to see them ( give me a few days).

http://www.42l.com/album_page.php?pic_id=30
http://www.42l.com/album_page.php?pic_id=28
http://www.42l.com/album_page.php?pic_id=32
http://www.42l.com/album_page.php?pic_id=31

[Monsterbrad]

Thanks for the pics we all know what our trucks look like under the body.
Where is the custom painted body or something that makes it look different from the rest.
Nice quality though on the pics.
Mine is still sitting on the bench with a smoked clutch.

[kilobit]

Well i didnt know, thats why im posting it here i didnt know anyone who had one to look at it, and there were no close-up pics i could find. Maybe these will convince people of the quality they are using. I would be nice if there was a place to buy aftermarket stuff for it. Does anyone know what size brake pad this thing uses? Are they standard sizes? thanks. Ah a buddy of mine wants to race it with his nitro tc3, i wonder who will win?? i will let you know.

[Monsterbrad]

Go for it just make sure you get the engine tuned it well.
I will say that the Menace will beat it but I am not positive it will depend on where you race and how long he is willing to hold his car WOT.
The Menace shifts shich makes it nice you get the speed without reving the piss outs the engine.
I love this truck its just to much fun, except for lately its been shelved cause of the new GS SUT truck I am workin on.
hope you beat the tc3!!!!!!

[DodgeRamSRT]

Has anybody put a 3-shoe clutch on this thing?

[Monsterbrad]

You can't cause of the clutch bells design!
Its to small with the three speed and all
although it would be nice if schumacher would come up with something different cause the stocker is kinda weak i think!

[SKiB]

sorry about the unimportance of this post, but i'm about to get a menace 21, and wanted to subscribe to this forum.

just curious though, is it actually worth getting aluminium parts? i read the plastic is probably better, cause it will flex, and not bend.

[B!!!]

So far in my experience, the plastic is junk. Maybe I treat mine a little rougher than most, but I'm breaking arms from non-extreme things like traction rolls and cartwheels. In fact, I took my Menace to the track on Monday for some practice, and I didn't even get a full lap in before it broke a rear arm. I've got aluminum front arms and am still waiting for the back ones to come in. Luckily, changing the rear arms on the Menace was the easiest I've ever seen! One screw, and the rear arms comes right off! Love it! The front is tougher though.

I'm totally not impressed with the toughness of the Menace, or really it's handling on the track (if anyone has any setup tips, please let me know, I'm racing it in a week and a half), but it is also the most fun I've had between repairs!

[kilobit]

I have taken my menace out a total of 4 times, and used about 7 tanks so far. I have flipped it 3 times and scraped the front bumper up a bit on the curb. My questions is about the differentials. The front one is as tight as it was when i got it, but the rear one is not its kindof rough if you turn it by hand. It feels like the gear mesh is off or something. But this thing is still new should i be having these problems? Do they use bad grease or something that needs to be changed out? Please let me know if anyone else is having these problems.

Hey B!!!!, remember me? you helped me get started in video editing a few months back?- Later

[B!!!]

Hey B!!!!, remember me? you helped me get started in video editing a few months back?- Later

Yes I do! How's it going? Got anything sharable?

[kilobit]

yea well not edited but i have some videos of my vehicles. 2MGT's 2savages(.27 sirio), rustler, tmaxx, and now this menace. We have the revo and losi truck on order. I have a vid of the menace racing the rustler and MGT, lol it was pointless the menace had no rivals, hehe. I will put the videos on my webpage when its done. Thanks- Tommy

[Chew]

I have taken my menace out a total of 4 times, and used about 7 tanks so far. I have flipped it 3 times and scraped the front bumper up a bit on the curb. My questions is about the differentials. The front one is as tight as it was when i got it, but the rear one is not its kindof rough if you turn it by hand. It feels like the gear mesh is off or something. But this thing is still new should i be having these problems? Do they use bad grease or something that needs to be changed out? Please let me know if anyone else is having these problems.

Hey B!!!!, remember me? you helped me get started in video editing a few months back?- Later


The diffs don't have gears, they use bearing type diffs, which will feel a little rough after some use. I noticed the same thing, so I got a diff rebuild kit from schumacher, just in case. It come with tungsten steel bearings which are better than the stockers. I've run it about 10 times since I felt the "rough" action, and they're still fine, but you might want to investigate or tighten them up a bit. Just make sure the diffs aren't "slipping",(being able to turn one wheel while holding the other three stationary). By the way whats your site, I'd love to see more video, especially if B!!! is coaching you!

[kilobit]

hehe, www.42L.com its a forum site i have been working on in my spare time. The one called first bash was the first one i have done so its kindof crappy but still pretty cool i thought. If i had a camera i would have gotten some footage of a menace getting busted up on the curb today. LOL man it really pisses me off. My menace was a RTR kit with the airtronics controller and i was doing some speed runs with it (while kicking a t-maxx's butt) and i must have gotten it about 150 foot away from me and the radio lost contact. I was in the middle of turning it around so it ran right into a curb at about 10 mph. I dont have the manual so i dont know the part#'s but front a-arm and the hub carrier broke. Has anyone gotten the aluminum a-arms for this. I would just be afraid if it didnt bust the arms what else would it break??? -peace :confused:
oh also i forgot to mention, why is my 1st gear wearing away? Its rubbing on something from the inside and i still cant figure it out.

[Monsterbrad]

For the aluminum parts I would say buy the Schumahcer ones and the teeth wearing away in first gear the mesh is probably out of square.
Which means the engine is in there at an angle.
It takes a little messing with but try to get it as straight to the gears as you can so the mesh is the same for all the gears or at least as close as you can get it. I missed mine by a little the engine moved and it stripped the gears out. Also make sure that you keep the nut on the end of the tranny snugged up so you don't lose the first gear hub like alot of guys have been having trouble with.

[kilobit]

I dont know exactly what you are talking about with the first gear nut. I havent taken it apart really yet, so i dont know what you mean --LAter

[Monsterbrad]

The nut on the end of the three gears.
Just make sure you keep up on that cause it can come loose.
Let us know how you like it
This thing flys i tell ya.
I also found a clutch for mine at Superior Hobbies in Florida.
Bought 2 so my truck will be back out soon!
Hey rock how are things going?????

[kilobit]

I have a friend that works at a cnc machine shop. If i can talk him into making some parts for the menace do you think people would buy them? What type of parts need to be in aluminum?

[Mirage one]

:rolleyes: :D :D :D First gear hub!!! First gear hub!!! did i mentioned the first gear hub?

[Mirage one]

:cool: Hey guys, guess what? I had a conversation over the phone with Paul Wynn at Schumacher usa today while ordering some parts and he mentionned to me that they were looking into making an aluminium first gear hub for the Menace. No dates, no promises but they are working on it. That would be sweet!

[Monsterbrad]

that would be cool they should make an aluminum clutch assembly too.
I finally got the clutch and now I need the bearings for it.
Should be back running soon.

[KrisP]

Well I got my new Menace yesterday. Last night I installed radio,adjusted gear mesh(man I forgot what a pain it was), and started to break it in today. Im debating on what to do with the tires, whether to glue them or get different ones. Anyone have any suggestions? Pics would be nice too. I will using it mostly offroad with occasional on-road.

[Monsterbrad]

dirt hawgs are good I hear but I am not sure cause my truck has been down for weeks.
Go easy on this thing its not that tough.
parts are a pain to get and the bearings are funny sizes.
Still love this truck though
Just crazy fast
WOW factor is just awesome.

[Monsterbrad]

I like this you can tell that the nice weather is here cause nobody is talkin on these forums.
Hope you all are having fun with your trucks!
Hey Rock where ya been????

[boati]

I just got mine, it is so cool and offcourse faaast :rolleyes:

www.boati.tk

[KrisP]

I finished breaking mine in today and started tuning. Man, I almost forgot how much fun these trucks are. I gave all three of my dogs a workout today. lol. I found an extra set of wheels I bought for my old menace in a box in the closet. WooHoo time to go shopping for tires. Im thinking about a set of ProLine Dirt Works. My lhs has started stocking some Menace parts so I think Ill pick up some spare parts too.

[DodgeRamSRT]

I used the Proline Dirt Works on my RC10GT which saw mostly pavement duty after I stuck the .21 in it. They were a pretty decent tire with good wear characteristics. Not sure how they work off road though. It may raise your top speed and put a little more strain on your clutch as they are a little taller than stock, just a thought. I think someone may have posted a few pages back that they were using those tires and liked them alot.

[DodgeRamSRT]

Has anyone found a good online retailer for Schumacher parts yet? - I knew it was coming, I finally crashed it. Doggone concrete block building jumped right in front of it on Sat. Besides a small bend in the chassis in the left front corner, it took out the left front a-arm and the front suspension mount. If I can straighten the chassis, it won't be too bad. I've never seen a building move like that before...

[Monsterbrad]

I just started a new job
Still waiting for the clutch bearings
SUCKS I want the speed Demon back again!!!!
my gs sut just doesn't have the speed factor going on.

[B!!!]

Hey guys, we got a new video up! Two of them, actually! Part 2 has some Menace action (abuse) in it. Adrian, you better not watch that one! ;) This is why I can't wait for the rest of my aluminum stuff!

www.slapmafro.com (http://www.slapmafro.com)

[plummers]

hi all, new uprated parts comin soon include first gear ratchet in alloy.second/third selector with modified pin slot.check it out on racing cars.com may newsletter.good news hey especially 1st gear modified which i have melted.

[boati]

I didden't get the News page to work on www.racing-cars.com

[Monsterbrad]

I am still waiting for the bearings for my clutch this is getting crazy.

[methodman]

Hi all!


well i got my menace last week and am still breaking the engine in, cant wait to see the full speed WOT, as soon as i can find somewhere long enough! there not to much space here in the UK!




Aaron...

[Monsterbrad]

You will love this truck I do when its running.
Just don't hit anything to hard with it and watch the nut on the end of the three speed unit.

[B!!!]

Have any of you guys ever had the truck get stuck in 2nd or 3rd gear? This happened to me the other day - running on dirt. It seemed to work itself out though.

[DodgeRamSRT]

Have any of you guys ever had the truck get stuck in 2nd or 3rd gear? This happened to me the other day - running on dirt. It seemed to work itself out though.
No, but I think mine is starting out in second - I only hear one shift and doesnt launch off the line as hard as I'm thinking it should.

[B!!!]

It took me so long to get it into 3rd gear, that I just picked it up off the ground and reved it. Heard it shift twice. Pretty sweet! Hitting 3rd gear on the ground is much more fun. Mine was quite soft off the line too, but leaning out the LSN a little really perked it up!

[KrisP]

Well as much as I hate to, My Menace is up for sale. I just have too many toys and projects going on.
Check it out here-->Menace for sale (http://www.radiocontrolzone.com/forums/showthread.php?t=168452)

[kilobit]

B!!! You say the menace had no damage? No bent parts. WoW you must have really soft dirt. If you dont mind would you tell me what you have done to it? Awesome vids man, keep 'em comming! :)

[B!!!]

All that I've done to it so far is add aluminum front arms, front yokes, and suspension mount. Everything else is still stock. I think I just got lucky because I've killed the rear arms a few times now from lesser things. I'm STILL waiting on the rest of my metal bits to arrive.

[methodman]

Well i`ve now had about 8 tanks through my menace, i love it, its so damn fast! The engines as sweet as a nut, starts first time everytime, and havent needed to tune it yet, it fly`s as it is!

Dude, what a sweet truck..........


:D


aaron.

[DeeMon]

hey all just got my menace, been out with it twice broke it twice :(
just wating for some titanium bars........ fast truck though very fast

[DeeMon]

any one got a spares list i could copy and has anyone seen a humvee shell for this baby??

[Chew]

No, but I think mine is starting out in second - I only hear one shift and doesnt launch off the line as hard as I'm thinking it should.


Mine does the same thing too, but not all the time. Sometimes it take off in 1st, sometimes 2nd :confused: It never goes into 1st when I'm running the road hawgs on pavement :mad: Still a bad a$$ truck :D

[nitrohead5300]

Sometimes, your springs in your tranny can get get fatigued , try some new springs and check your tranny make sure there is nothing inside ( like rocks , dirt etc..) that can keep the tranny from working .

[B!!!]

any one got a spares list i could copy and has anyone seen a humvee shell for this baby??

I think that pretty much any body will work on the Menace. The stock body was designed for a T-Maxx, so maybe take a look at Proline's Humm-Vee (http://www.pro-lineracing.com/proline/bodies/3104/3104.html) shell. If you get a SUV type body, you might need to order some new body posts. I know the ones from Schumacher are pretty long and need to be cut down, but I don't know if they are long enough for that type of body. Anything like a pickup truck should work though.

[CRSMP5]

back on page 9 or so i posted a parts list and mounted a trinity beer hauler to a menace :)

[DeeMon]

ok tnx 4 the info :)

[DeeMon]

ok i know im eing lazy and prob should check myself but does any one know a good site for alloys cause the standard ones suck.

[Monsterbrad]

I was told that nobody will make aluminum stuff for this truck except schumacher but I might be wrong.
I have not bought any of it but it doesn't seem like anybody has complained about the stock arms from schumacher that are aluminum.
My truck is still shelfed cause of the clutch bearings.
Kinda sucks

[DeeMon]

I was told that nobody will make aluminum stuff for this truck except schumacher but I might be wrong.
I have not bought any of it but it doesn't seem like anybody has complained about the stock arms from schumacher that are aluminum.
My truck is still shelfed cause of the clutch bearings.
Kinda sucks

i meant alloy wheels :), i know the feeling about it on the shelf every time i take mine out it breaks!! (thats down to my poor driving though)

[methodman]

Hi all


i`ve now got a menace 21, and i`m really impressed with it, the engine`s as sweet as a nut, idles like a dream, had about 10 tanks thourgh her, and havent needed to tune it yet. It goes mega quick on the car park, and its great for some high speed runs on a freshly cut playing field, even better with a cricket pitch in the middle of it - where i`ve been able to get in into third gear!
people give these trucks a hard time, they are so light and not really ment for hard bashing its more of a speed thing,( i`m sure more savages would be in bits if they could do 70 mph!?) but over all i`m really impressed, to say the least! Every outting gives you a real buzz, 70mph fun at its best, and comes with some yummy carbon bits too,


aaron....

[Monsterbrad]

I have to agree the wow factor of this car is just toooo much
still waiting for clutch bearings

[ehupp01]

Mine is almost all alum and I love it. I break it every time I try to race but one of these days I wont crash and I will win. :o I am just waiting on the rear arms. I have some pics up at my web site http://www.huppnet.org you just click the counter to get to them. :D

[Monsterbrad]

ehupp
How do you like those dirt hawg tires on this truck???
I would think that they would roll to much on the corners and make the truck un stable.
I like losi smasher tires but have not tried them yet.

[deanj]

i know there are 2 types of mi2's. but which 1 should i buy. the s1 or the carbon? :confused:

[ehupp01]

ehupp
How do you like those dirt hawg tires on this truck???
I would think that they would roll to much on the corners and make the truck un stable.
I like losi smasher tires but have not tried them yet.

No they are great, very good at high speeds and stable. They didnt work good at all at the local track though, it's asphalt. I got some Speed Hawgs for that and they are near perfect the smaller diameter makes the acceleration just nuts. The track is not big enough to reach top speed anyway so the tradeoff works.

[Monsterbrad]

I was going to try the speed hogs when I get my truck going again.
I am going to also try the smasher tires from losi.
I'll let ya know how it goes.

[ehupp01]

Those smashers look they would do real well.

[tjones]

Hey guy, I just ordered my Menace... what can I expect?

[tjones]

I have wanted a nitro truck for years but my wife was always saying no! But he other day I decided to get one and since I had to wait I wanted the fastest available. Did I pick the right truck?

[tjones]

I can't wait till it gets here. What is everyone paying for these trucks. I was so excited I hope I did not Pay too much

[Monsterbrad]

I got mine for 400 no radio!
You will love this truck it hauls azz

[tjones]

That's about what I paid for mine. I live on the east coast and nobody seems to carry this truck or knows much about it. The LHS said that it was too difficult to tune and that you can't get parts for it. He also said that everybody claims speed of 60-70mph but that it will never reach that speed. He tried to sell me a rustler for the same price I paid for the Menace. It looks like I will be the only guy in Maryland or Virginia to have one ... Please let it be the fastest thing around or these guys are going to call me an idiot for buying a truck that no one around here will even stock. Whats up with that ... they don't even stock the parts for the thing. Somebody please tell me that I did the right thing.

[methodman]

tjones,


dude you have done the right thing, trust me! you`ll love the speed and power of it, and never get bored with the hard acceleration,

mind you i guess i have the best of both worlds, as i have a savge 25 SS, and a hyper 7 sport too, so one for every occasion!


enjoy! Aaron :D

[ehupp01]

It will stomp everything out there. I dont know if mine does 70 or not but I know its more than twice as fast as my buddies Ofna buggy. :D Looks like he is standing still!

[MTI 4X4 Wannabe]

OK... I want one. I know a lot of people are saying that it is no noob truck. I'm guessing I'm still considered a noob. I basically part owned a T-maxx with my buddy and ran about 2 gallons through it, worked on it, and everything so hey... whatever. I was really looking into a buggy but after seeing some people say that if you learn how to feather the throttle in the turns then you can beat many buggys, it really made me think. Then... seeing the slapmafro video made me think even more. If I can get one RTR at the right price I may just have to take this over a buggy. It looks like a helluvalotta fun. :-)

[kilobit]

I just got my parts i ordered in the mail. Man it's like christmas all over again, hehe. For some reason i decided to get the RTR menace, and it was kindof a mistake. It came with an airtronics controller , it looks nice but it sucks. Thats how i broke the menace the first time cause it went out of range, and now the steering servo is stripped. Owell i will just dust off my old magnum jr and put a nice hitec on it and it should be good to go. Do all the RTR kits come with airtronics? If so stay away from them.

[Monsterbrad]

Hey airtronics makes a good radio in the high end models.
But then again they all are pretty good now days if you buy FM.
I have the JR xr3i in both my trucks and it works sweet.

[kilobit]

do you use fm? my futaba is am and it has an awesome range. The antenna is about twice the length of the airtronics. There is enough room in the battery box of the menace to stuff the extra wire, so well see how it works.

[tjones]

My truck comes in tomorrow!!!!! I can't wait!!!!! I went to the LHS today and was just asking a few questions, of course they were dumping all over the Menace,(you can't get parts, nobody sells it, you can't race it at this track, and worst of all its too fast) I haver never said those words in my life "Its too fast" all that did was make me want it more!!! I am going to own that track!!! When I am done everyone in Maryland will be wishing they had a Menace.21 Look out Here Comes The Menance

[tjones]

Anyone have a list of all the aluminum upgrades available to make the Menace ready for full time off road racing

[Monsterbrad]

All I can tell ya is take it easy with this truck its not bomb proof.
Schumacher has the aluminum parts for the truck i have seen pics of ones on ebay all done up with there aluminum parts.
Looks pretty good.
Call them and ask them when you get your truck.
You will like it it hauls azz but just don't get crazy its not that tough.

[kilobit]

You were like me when i got mine! Just remember if you respect it, it will last alot longer, plus the parts have to come from England so you cant go down the street and pick them up. Also dont even bother trying to hit 3rd gear. If you try you will more than likely break it. I just hate to see someone so eager to get something and then brake it like it did :) Welcome to the club!!

[RustyPrince]

Does anyone know the factory carb settings for the Thunder Tiger that comes in the Menace/Fusion.

[Monsterbrad]

I have not played with the low speed needle at all but I start out at 2-1/2 turns out from closed on the high end.
The LSN should be flush with the carb body but don't mess with that till you get it tuned in mine was good from the factory,plus this engine is very user friendly.

[tjones]

Ok my Menace is HERE!!!!! Of course it is rainning here...I can't belive it. We have not had rain in weeks. But I guess its good... I will have to spend the day inside reading the manual, applying decals, etc. But as soon as the sun comes out I am going to be out there tearing up the track. Any suggestions on break in techniques...the manual seems kinda vague

[RustyPrince]

Thanks MonsterBrad.

I recently got my Menace and it was a roller so I put a motor that I had from a AE MGT. Its the same Thunder Tiger but it has a diffrent head. I cant seem to get the tuning right but I will go ahead and play with that setting today.

[Monsterbrad]

This engine seems pretty easy to tune.
Another thing you could try is call Schumacher and ask them they all have these trucks and run them all the time.
They could tell you where to start with the settings.

[tjones]

Help!!! SOS HELP!!!! I was breaking in my new menace on my 3rd tank ..God this thingis fast.. I was at 1/4 to 1/2 throttle never at full throtle yet and it stalled. I have not been able to get it to restart. It is not pulling fuel. I have adjusted carb settings, checked for air bubbles, removed the glow plug, I dont Know what else to do. Can anyone help?

[Chew]

To all who just got the truck or are thinking of getting the truck, it's worth it! :D It does break easily, but it would not be what it IS if it were more durable. It's half the weight of most trucks out there and it has a .21 in it. Parts are not readily available at LSH's, but schumacher is great, easy to deal with, and they will ship parts express, which means you can get everything in a day or two. As far as being a noob r/c, the engine is the easiest one I've tuned yet, and because it is insanely overpowered, it doesn't have to work very hard. My advise, which I have learned the hard way, ie. breaking parts on my menace, is forget about 3rd gear for a while. Even if you are not a noob, this thing handles differently than everything I have driven. Get a feel for it for about, 10 or 15 tanks, in first and second gear only. I know it's hard, after break in I hit 3rd gear every time I took it out, and every time for four different times something broke. Then I drove it a little more conservatively, got the feel for it, and some extra parts, and have had many mind blowing, brakage free runs. Not to mention the menace will kill most other r/c's without having to hit third ;) Don't get me wrong, this truck is made for speed, and I'm loving it now, but until you're used to the speed, things can, and will break :rolleyes: Just remember that at over 50 mph it doesn't take much to flip an object that weighs a little over 5 lbs. Try taking the most durable r/c and dropping it out of a car that's doing 50, and see what happens. Thats about the only way you'll get anything "durable" to do 50 mph, and this truck does more! :D Oh yes, it does well over 50 mph! :eek:

[Chew]

tjones,
Try resetting the carb to factory settings. Are you sure its not the glow plug? Mine burned after about three tanks. Using an OS#8 now. Will it draw fuel if you cover the exaust hose with your finger? I'm sure it's something simple, this is a great engine. Stupid question, but is the drill in the clockwise rotation?

[tjones]

Chew thanks for quick response, Yes it pulls fuel when I cover the exhaust..Is that good?

[tjones]

I got it running. Thanks Chew... It was the Glow starter..rookie mistake

[Monsterbrad]

I have to agree with the third gear thing!
I have been running these cars for over 15 years and this truck is by far the hardest to get used to.
I have a time keeping it straight when WOT off the line.
I can manage though and its so much fun having all this power.
Any how I adjusted my HSN so that it will run a little slower and its actually more fun that leaned out cause its driveable.
I only hit third when I have the room and I can keep it straight cause turning this thing at 50+ is very interesting and trying to control it all at the same time.
Have fun guys this truck is a blast!

[Chew]

Yes it pulls fuel when I cover the exhaust..Is that good?

Yeah, its supposed to do that. Easy way to prime the fuel line and get fuel to the carb for easy starting. Don't hold the exhaust for too long or you'll flood the engine, watch the fuel going through the tubing until it hits the carb then let off the exhaust with the drill still running. Should start right up every time ;) .

Monsterbrad, cheers, this thing's a mad power house, huh :D

[xdamxincx]

i took my engine off and to replace the layshaft... now .. the engine starts up fine .. i run it for a about 20 seconds and u can hear the motor sound like it has more of a load on it .. like its in 2 gear... and performance is shotty after that and it shuts off at idle . is this signs of the clutch bearings ??

[B!!!]

It could be that your clutch spring has broken. Check that while you are checking your bearings.

[Monsterbrad]

I would look at the clutch thats what mine did and the clutch was totally wasted. Pulled right off the posts and was junk.
I hope you can find the clutch I had to get mine from a place in Florida cause they are were on back order but they probably are not by now I would hope.
Mine is still shelfed waiting for the last bearings to come.
Clutch is all on and new bearings are in also can't wait hopefully this weekend Finally!!!

[B!!!]

I just ordered a new clutch and bearings today direct from Schumacher. They are in stock and waiting.

[SKiB]

I got my menace

it's with the black/silver shell. appearantly there is now a cover for the top of the gearbox i've seen it on mine, but i've been to busy to have a proper look.

i also got a futaba 2pl to go with... i have every intention of changing radios/servos in near future, however it was all i could afford at the time.

[xdamxincx]

I got my menace

it's with the black/silver shell. appearantly there is now a cover for the top of the gearbox i've seen it on mine, but i've been to busy to have a proper look.

i also got a futaba 2pl to go with... i have every intention of changing radios/servos in near future, however it was all i could afford at the time.

If there is a new part on the menace please take pictures and post... thanks

[DodgeRamSRT]

Has anybody heard if the new aluminum 1st gear hub is available yet?

[crusher03]

What are some of the parts everyone is breaking, im getting ready to order my menace and want to get some spars for it as my lhs isnt going to carry parts for it.
A-arms, hingpins that kinda thing or is it more bulkheads and chasis plates, any help would be great, thanks

[DodgeRamSRT]

What are some of the parts everyone is breaking, im getting ready to order my menace and want to get some spars for it as my lhs isnt going to carry parts for it.
A-arms, hingpins that kinda thing or is it more bulkheads and chasis plates, any help would be great, thanks
A-arms, at least the front, front bulkhead, maybe a tranny gearset - I've melted the 1st gear hub a couple times now. Make sure the nut on the tranny is tight and that you have no brake drag.

[Monsterbrad]

Also keep an eye on the clutch!
I have replaced mine already and I have been waiting for the tranny bearing that I broke for almost a month.
next week end the Menace should be back again but I am running my GS SUT now and it rocks.

[ehupp01]

Finally finished all the alloy upgrades including the shocks. :)

http://www.huppnet.org/images/Done.jpg

[Chew]

Sweet looking truck! Did you get all the alloy parts from schumacher?

[Combatcm]

I wondered why I didn't get a menace a while ago. Then I remembered that the diffs are ball. I'm not a fan of ball diffs. Do they stand up to the power? Do they need to be adjusted a lot? Do they burn up?

[Combatcm]

double post

[ehupp01]

Sweet looking truck! Did you get all the alloy parts from schumacher?
O yea I had to wait forever on the rear arms but finally its done. I took it out today and had a major crash with no damage very cool.

[tjones]

Ohhhhhhhhhhh, ok I really did it this time. I was out having a great time with my menace "this thing is a scream" and was almost ready to shut it down when I decided to run one more tank. Bad decision!!! I opened it up full throtle for the first time. I turned too fast and flipped it Boy did I flip it. Well I am ordering new arms today. I want alloy but I don't want to wait forever. How long did it take ehupp?

[ehupp01]

Ohhhhhhhhhhh, ok I really did it this time. I was out having a great time with my menace "this thing is a scream" and was almost ready to shut it down when I decided to run one more tank. Bad decision!!! I opened it up full throtle for the first time. I turned too fast and flipped it Boy did I flip it. Well I am ordering new arms today. I want alloy but I don't want to wait forever. How long did it take ehupp?

They are in stock now so just have them send them priority mail and you will have the alloy by Wed. It sure makes the truck stronger and it looks very cool. I dont think it adds that much wieght either so its a total win win.

[Combatcm]

Where can I buy this online, and were can I get parts for it. I think the schumacher website is down.

[nitrohead5300]

Yeah what's up with the Schumacher website ? They have been down for the last two days!!

[Chew]

Schumacher is constantly working on the web site, and is an ongoing battle. I don't suggest you order from the web site, I did once, and they never got the order! Just call, and order by phone, customer service is great. USA # is (813)-889-9691. If possible, have the part #'s ready, from the site or the manual. Makes it alot easier. ;)

[Monsterbrad]

Yeah any of you guys that have been reading this all along know that I waited over a month for the bearings for the clutch and one for the tranny that I broke trying to take off the shaft.
I have it all together now and its back in action.
But I am one of the people that knows how long it takes to get parts.
But on the other hand the GS SUT that I have is kinda hard to get parts for also.
Oh well I guess its part of this hobby.

[Monsterbrad]

Truck is going again!!
So FREAKIN FAST
I LOVE IT:-)

[glypo]

Hi i'm new to this forum. I've had my menace a very long time and it has some serious mods.

I'm not sure if i can post my website url (whether that's in rules here or not). So for now i'll give you 2 photos:

http://pic9.picturetrail.com/VOL294/1486111/4243702/52832792.jpg

http://pic9.picturetrail.com/VOL294/1486111/4243702/53677133.jpg

As to the question about ball diffs earlier on (i think it was unanswered, schuie diffs are tough, and there is the option of tungsten carbide which helps)

Anyway i'm glad i've found a large menace community online :D .

[tjones]

WOW!!! LOOKS GREAT

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hey G.
Truck looks great! Please list your mods and your URL.I got my Menace about 3 weeks ago and have been adding the alloy mods but would like to know what else can be done. I love this truck. The other day I stomped this jerk with a Savage to the point that he wanted to buy mine on the spot. I have not lost a race yet. Of course I hide the fact that it is a Menace with an old rustler body. Boy it is fun to see the faces of the crowd when I blow by.

[ehupp01]

Welcome glypo good to see you here. You have a lot of expertise on menace and you will be a great asset. :)

[tjones]

"again with the help"
I striped out the hex for the E-start has anyone replaced one ..how hard is it I removed the back plate but could not figure how to take it apart. I ordered the replacement part but it wolud help if someone could tell me how to take it apart

[glypo]

My website is http://www.glypo.co.uk

Thanks for the welcome ehupp01, i wouldn't have known about this place if it wasn't for you anyway.

As for the e-start, i found it's near impossible to get the hex cup out when you have removed the assembly.

The best option is to replace the starting assembly. It basically comes ready built, and you unscrew the old one and screw on the new, simple :).

You could try the cheaper option with just buying the hex, but i have tried several times and failed. The whole unit (which consists of the back plate, hex socket) etc all built up isn't to cheap though.

However it's not as if it's a regular cost, as they shouldn't strip unless you're doing something wrong like not holding the drill straight on, or inserting the hex drive whilst the drill is running or pulling out whilst the drill is running. Or even forcing the engine when it's hydro-locked by flooding. I've done all of this by accident at some point :rolleyes:

An e-start is something i wont be using much longer (hint on my next mod).

[tjones]

DUAL START SYSTEM
Has anyone tried the dual start sysem from the associated monster gt on a Menace. I think they use the same engine as ours. I want to upgrade to that system. I think it is the way to go.

[glypo]

Well you're right, they both have the same engine, the TT .21.

I was speaking to my lhs about this (the largest schumacher retailer in the world, so these guys know their stuff about schumachers). They said the only problems you may have is it fitting in, as the bottom may touch the chassis plate. They are waiting for some dual starts to come in stock to try it.

I don't see why it shouldn't fit though.

[califax]

I own an HPI Nitro Rush and I have seriously considering moving up to the monster truck class, but barely learned about the Menace and its capability I have developed tunnel vision and I know what I want as my next truck. I was wondering if I can fit 40 series spinners from Pro-Line on it? I know the truck is compatible with the T-Max bodies and that got me jazzed. I look forward to owning one for sure.

[methodman]

Hi glypo,


looks like we have the same taste in trucks and forums mate!

i`m lord of the bling on the www.maxbashing.com forum!

i`d like the hear how your menace sounds with the RB pipe on it..


well i`m still waiting for a rear dogbone/driveshatft at the moment, the pin just fell out and its taking ages to be delivered...... :(

Aaron.....

[methodman]

heres my menace with my hyper 7...

[methodman]

another.....

[methodman]

last one...... :)

[glypo]

Hi lord of the bling / method man / Aaron,

Yup, our forum tastes must be the same. The tone of the Menace will be changed in a month or so again, when i do some serious power mods.

califax -> As for the spinners they'll only fit maxx 40 size wheels.

[AdrianM]

New accessory for the Menace:

U2780 Alloy Rachet/Brake Hub for 3 Speed $12.99

[AdrianM]

Another Shot:

[nitrohead5300]

Adrain...Will this new hub improve the shifting on the three speed ? Or will it just last longer than the plastic one?

[glypo]

There is no speed increase with it whatsoever.

I have had mine in my Menace just over a week now. The problem with the plastic one was it used strip where the pin goes, which is not good at all. This basically just solves that problem and makes the 3-speed a lot more reliable :)

[nitrohead5300]

glypo.. did not say it would make it go faster. :) Thanks .

[Monsterbrad]

More tranny problems again for me.
How about some aluminum gears Schumacher?????????
or steel would be better

[glypo]

I have been in contact with Schuie about Steel or alloy gears and a 3 shoe clutch, robin said no. Although i think they might catch on soon and start developing some.

Well, we can but hope.

[DodgeRamSRT]

a 3-shoe clutch would be a great addition. I'll be ordering thealloy brake hub tomorrow, yeee hawwww!

[glypo]

I don't think they will bring out a 3 shoe though, hence i have my own system done. I will have a full write up on my website in a couple of months, but it's going to be great :D

[tjones]

Hey G.
I was able to get the hex drive out .(Thanks to Adrian and Troy who walked me through it ...twice) All you need is a pair of vice grips and needle-nosed pliers. Use the plieres to pull out the one way bearing, turn the bearing around leave enough of the bearing exposed so that you can grip it with the vice grip and use the other vice grip to back out the screw...and its done. I am sure yoou knew all this but I just put it out there for the other new guys like me. I also ordered the dual start for the Monster GT, The tech at my LHS said it would work. My first upgrade ..WOW!!! I love this truck!!!!!


My website is http://www.glypo.co.uk

Thanks for the welcome ehupp01, i wouldn't have known about this place if it wasn't for you anyway.

As for the e-start, i found it's near impossible to get the hex cup out when you have removed the assembly.

The best option is to replace the starting assembly. It basically comes ready built, and you unscrew the old one and screw on the new, simple :).

You could try the cheaper option with just buying the hex, but i have tried several times and failed. The whole unit (which consists of the back plate, hex socket) etc all built up isn't to cheap though.

However it's not as if it's a regular cost, as they shouldn't strip unless you're doing something wrong like not holding the drill straight on, or inserting the hex drive whilst the drill is running or pulling out whilst the drill is running. Or even forcing the engine when it's hydro-locked by flooding. I've done all of this by accident at some point :rolleyes:

An e-start is something i wont be using much longer (hint on my next mod).

[glypo]

You're lucky you managed to get it out. I have found on both occassions i had the problem the the hex was just too tight to undo.

Dual start is a great idea, there are always times when pulstarts will come in useful :)

[ehupp01]

Lost a rear drive shaft today. Ding Dangit!!!! :mad: The car was running so good. I put many tanks through with zero problems and then :eek: front wheel drive only baby!! :mad:

[ehupp01]

All I can say is Schumacher is the BEST!! :) My new bones will be in this week.

[ehupp01]

This should get people talking again. MY TOYS :D

http://www.huppnet.org/images/toys.jpg

[glypo]

Very nice. A matching colour scheme as well :)

Any chance of some more shots of the Menace? How do you get on with those tyres, i found the only tyres that give me decent grip on all surfaces are the Mini-pins.

[ehupp01]

Thanks Glypo, I like the tires real well. They are great for sand and rocks like we have here they also give me a little more ground clearance.

http://www.huppnet.org/images/Done.jpg
http://www.huppnet.org/images/men1.jpg

[Monsterbrad]

Has anybody had problems with third gear stripping out.
This is the second time for me.
Anybody know of any tricks to keep this from happening???
Hey Rock how are things going???????

[glypo]

I have stripped it once before, i found the problem was that the nut of the end was not tight enough. Only thing i can really think of is that your meshing is not quite right, or you do it right but don't tighten the mounts up enough so engine slips with vibrations?

[Monsterbrad]

hey guys ???
Anybody know of somebody who wants one of these trucks??
I am selling mine to fund my race project.
200 for the truck with cordless drill new tranny gears and spare clutch and a new clutch just installed.
Please Help I need to sell this thing.
Email me at
ExExCR@aol.com
thanks

[gsequal]

I have the Fusion and can't wait to get the Menace. I love the speed.

Pat
Hey, i would like to know how the fusion has worke to you. DOyou have any problems with it or something.

[Monsterbrad]

You will love this truck for speed but they are not that tough.
just be careful with that much power on time its just never enough fun.
I am going to try to keep mine instead of selling it its just to awesome to wow people with it.

[tjones]

What happened???? No new post in over a week!!!!

I just finished with all of the alluminum on my truck and it is awesome!!! Question.. Has anyone tried they Hyper 21 on the Menace. I was told it would make the truck unbeatable

[tjones]

I broke it again.
It seems like I find a new way to break it everytime I go out!!! I Just completed all the alloy upgrades and I thought I was bullet-proof. Nope!!! Slid into my own foot and bent the adjustable linkage rod on the rear end. I rigged that somehow and then the little screws on the front hub backed out and I lost the bottom screw that holds the front hub in place. Adrian help...I dont see either of the screws I lost on the part sheet so I don't have part numbers

[Monsterbrad]

PLEASE
SOME BODY BUY MY MENACE!!!!!!!!!
$275.00 with drill for starting.
Only thing it needs is the radio and servos.
Comes with stock blue body new clutch and tranny.
Call me at 814-450-6973 or ExExCR@aol.com

[glypo]

I know all alloy parts numbers (including the pivot pins etc) , just be more specific and i can tell you what's what.

Hyper should be good in menace, i'm trying something faster though!

[ehupp01]

Dead Forum :mad:

[B!!!]

Yep, I noticed that as well. Hopefully not too dead though.

Anyone else ever experience the truck getting sort of stuck in second gear?

[InsaneMenace]

HI I am new to this forum. Live in Canberra, capital of AUS

I have had menace 21 for some time and I am glad i found this thread as I never heard of the alloy drive hub thing that always lunches itself and now I have a part no for it, sweet.

This truck is fast but has its problems.

This is what I have already got on my truck:
alloy: hubs(f+r)/shock tower mounts
pipe is relocated to side
HT 605BB servo's

This is what I am in the process of doing to my truck:
-custom top deck with twin fuel tanks, relocated servo's, better weight distribution by 5cell pack under 2nd tank. One servo is at rear and one at front, should stiffen up the chassis also.
-custom shock towers, heaps more tuning locations, especially on rear.

These are the (numerous) problems that I have encountered:

#Belt slips under hard braking-schumacher have fixed it with an o/size pulley!
#Belt drive gets dirty quick-silicone and electrical tape fix it
#first gear hub strips easy-now have new part no for alloy item(YES)!!!!
#clutch bearings die quick-add more, also use hardened steel washer for side to side location of the bell, reduces friction and u can adjust it with shims.
#diff rings slip on outdrives-carefully drill and tap outdrive and grind slot into drive ring to suit small screw, must be very carefull as not much clearance at all.
#drive shafts(cvd's) lose pins-easiest fix is heatshrink on the CVD or rubber tube,ect.
#even titanium rear pins bend-add aditional holder in middle of pin, just offset from diff outdrive, may require bit of creativity to fit but it will.
#Diff gaurds fall off-glue them on!
#Servo saver is unreliable-use one on servo horn
#Bearings seize even before they should-replace with Tamiya or another higher quality bearing, for me they have lasted longer.
#layshaft bearing seized after bout 10 tanks-I am in the process of designing a new gearbox half that will accept a bigger bearing.

Just my 2 cents

[InsaneMenace]

Yep, I noticed that as well. Hopefully not too dead though.

Anyone else ever experience the truck getting sort of stuck in second gear?

I too hope it isn't dead as I just got here. lol

My truck somtimes hesitates into second, kind of jitters a bit and doesn't accelerate then just bangs into second.

The problem is usually caused by the gear changing weights loosing their original profile and they get "hung up" on the gear change.

If you can anticipate when it will change back off a bit and it shouldn't be as bad, the power kind of holds it in second, when you back off just a bit it can release the weight and allow it to change. Try it but i could be wrong.

[InsaneMenace]

Anyone got any "custom" mod suggestions that will complement what I have listed previously??

I have yet to grasp a way of strengthening the angled front hinge pins, they are getting very loose in their mounts and have been "straightened" too many times but haven't failed yet.

[AdrianM]

Official responses to Issues from Schumacher :)

1. Belt slips under hard braking-Schumacher have fixed it with an o/size pulley!
It happens to all single belt cars. The Losi XXX4 and XXXS do it too. It doesn't hurt anything. There are no over size pulleys...there never has been and there are no plans to make anything like that.
2. Belt drive gets dirty quick-silicone and electrical tape fix it
All Menaces since July 1st have a new plastic belt guard that seals more completely. They also have a new plastic gear shield.
3. First gear hub strips easy-now have new part no for alloy item(YES)!!!!
The first cars that shipped had a problem with assembly where a few of our production people did not tighten the 3 speed end nut tight and this caused the stripping. We figured this out by late September and corrected the problem. I can honestly say we get almost zero calls about stripped hubs now
4. Clutch bearings die quick-add more, also use hardened steel washer for side to side location of the bell, reduces friction and u can adjust it with shims.
All cars shipped since December have 4 bearings in the clutch bell to handle the loads. Other than that replacing clutch bearings is part of racing nitro. I have a MP 7.5 Kenai that eat clutch bearings. I asked Greg Degani if that was normal and he said all nitro car eat clutch bearings.
5. Diff rings slip on out drives-carefully drill and tap out drive and grind slot into drive ring to suit small screw, must be very carefully as not much clearance at all.
I see you are an old pan car racer! I used to do that to my RC10L's back in the day (18 years ago...lol!) I have never heard any mention of ring slip on the Menace. I suppose its possible. I think pinning the diffs on a Menace is a lot of work to get no benefit in performance.
6. drive shafts(cvd's) lose pins-easiest fix is heat shrink on the CVD or rubber tube,etc.
The heat shrink trick is an old one Kinwald used to do all the time to keep his CVD's together. If yours come apart be sure to blast everything clean with motor spray, rebuild them with no grease and Loctite on the set screw. Then you can lube them with bearing oil and you should be all set.
7. even titanium rear pins bend-add additional holder in middle of pin, just offset from diff out drive, may require bit of creativity to fit but it will.
I have no idea what you just said...lol!
8. Diff guards fall off-glue them on!
I personally have never seen this but I guess it can happen. FYI, no glue on earth will stick to the diff pulley fence material so gluing does nothing. When you glued them snapping them on really well is what fixed the problem
9. Servo saver is unreliable-use one on servo horn
I disagree. We have been using this servo saver for over 10 years. It is well tested, has been on IFMAR World, ROAR and NORRCA Nats winning cars
10. Bearings seize even before they should-replace with Tamiya or another higher quality bearing, for me they have lasted longer.
The bearings have fairly tight rubber seals so they should last a long time. That said bearing life depends entirely on the user. If you run it in water, mud, fine sand and never clean them bearing life will certainly be short
11. lay shaft bearing seized after bout 10 tanks-I am in the process of designing a new gearbox half that will accept a bigger bearing.
This should not happen. If this happens on a new truck you should call us and we will send a new bearing under warranty. We have not heard of this happening to anyone else.

[ehupp01]

What else can I say yall are still here and the menace is a great truck with excellent support. :)

[B!!!]

Hey Adrian, thanks for the excellent info. Can the new belt and gear shields be ordered though the online store?

And since things have fallen off in here lately, I'll just post a little picture...
http://www.slapmafro.com/Rides/BCuda1.jpg

[InsaneMenace]

TOUGH pic, looks awesome m8.

Adrian, you say that there is no o-size pulley, I am reffering to the white coloured one that was sent to me to "replace" the dark grey original one that came with the kit,(the idler pulley in the rear trans case similar to the front tensioner pulley, but now its different colour and size) once I got it no more trouble!!!It doesn't slip at all even on high trac surfaces.
I have measured it and it is O-size, that I can assure you. I did not dream it, so if anyone has any slipping belts they SHOULD NOT there is a fix available cos I HAVE IT ON MY TRUCK and they have the packet with those bits in stock at my local store.

Maybe in the states your kits never had this problem, but mine did, it actually slipped pretty easy under brakes.

My diff rings showed clear signs of slipping on the outdrive and when I fixed it there was a noticeable difference in performance. This can happen even on 1/10 elec cars so it can surely happen on 1/10, 21 powered nitro cars that dont have a slipper clutch. After the clutch the diff is the next weakest link.

Where can I get a newer or updated manual for this truck, or (Adrian) could you please provide the part no's for any parts that have been updated since the cars inception. That would be muchly appreciated.

regards
Chuck

[InsaneMenace]

. even titanium rear pins bend-add additional holder in middle of pin, just offset from diff out drive, may require bit of creativity to fit but it will.
I have no idea what you just said...lol!
.[/b]

Well, the rear support structure of the (inner) hinge pins is only mounted at each end of them, right, so the bending moment of the pin is increased because the entire middle section of the pin ins't supported by anything, so if you put a slightly modified original mount in the middle of the pin you effectively halve the bending moment, right, so there you have it. An alternative is to place a metal tube (must be thick) around the exposed area of the hinge pin, this also helps but not as much as a solid mount!

And by the way that little steel pin that delivers drive force from; the first gear ratchet brake hub; and also the 2nd/3rd gear change hub, to the layshaft is way under the size/spec that it should be.That is the reason why the gear hubs die. It is the same size as a wheel pin on a cheap tamiya stadium truck, that only delivers the power of one 540 elec motor to one wheel. And the Menace designers thought it would handle ALL the driving force(and braking force which is usually MUCH greater than driving force) of a 2hp+ nitro engine that also changes gears with enough force to break traction on asphalt. Mate that is INSULTING that you blame it on poor assembly, maybe some kits it was the problem but I assure you that it is still way too small for the power loading that it is designed to handle. Please don't shift the balme you are not talking to some inexperienced lamo that will accept your answers(no offence intended). I am very experienced with fabrication and engineering/CAD design and even looking at this truck before I bought it I new it would have problems, and it has, it is still a very good truck but some aspects are not up to the task. The design is the fault. Don't make excuses, I won't buy it and it aggrivates me that a very expensive truck has heriditory driveline faults, minor things are expected but you could almost stip that pin in the drive hub by hand if you wanted. Waht d'ya reckon hey.

I understand that different peoples experiences are different. But those are mine!!!

Also the alignment of the rear chassis screw hole's is off centre and my truck had a 1.5 mm difference in alignment when measured at the same length from the chassis as the wheels would be. You can go and check it on your own parts with a vernier caliper and you will find that the rear of the chassis is centered on a point slightly to left of where it should be, this may be a fault of my chassis, just like the other faults. hey! Is that why the rear arms are marked left and right respectively, to overcome the misalignment in the chassis, you probably have a good excuse for that too. Can't wait to hear it.

PS the only reason for the "odd" rear end alignment that I can think of is that the rear end was twisted out of line when designed to move the furthest forward right hand hinge pin mount slightly to the left so it would clear the first speed spur gear. Cos if the rear end were straight it would "just" scrape the spur gear. This ain't just crap I'm talkin here it was measured using accurate methods and is deffinitely the case on "my" truck.

[AdrianM]

Insane Menace - My reply to your post is based on the cars we sell, the parts we sell and the feedback we get day to day from, Schu UK, the Schu R&D dept, over 1500 US Schumacher dealers and thousand of Menace owners. I apologize if you perceived some of my replies to be insulting. Never the less I stand behind everything I said as it is all absolute fact.

I believe it is bad business to lie or cover up problems from consumers. I think if you search through past posts you will see whenever there was a real problem I got on here (and other boards) and told everyone what it was and how we would fix it for them. I cant recall any other manufacturer doing this.

[InsaneMenace]

Insane Menace - My reply to your post is based on the cars we sell, the parts we sell and the feedback we get day to day from, Schu UK, the Schu R&D dept, over 1500 US Schumacher dealers and thousand of Menace owners. I apologize if you perceived some of my replies to be insulting. Never the less I stand behind everything I said as it is all absolute fact.

I believe it is bad business to lie or cover up problems from consumers. I think if you search through past posts you will see whenever there was a real problem I got on here (and other boards) and told everyone what it was and how we would fix it for them. I cant recall any other manufacturer doing this.

yes Adrian your service in America is very good I have had no help like that in Australia, the design does have faults tho, that is the case with most kits that are available.

The major fault in the Menace design is underated drive pins on the Layshaft, we all shouldn't have to buy alloy upgrades(brake or 1st gear ratchet hub) just to overcome an underdesigned drive pin problem. Do you feel like sending me one of them for FREE, cos I shouldn't be the one paying for it.

[InsaneMenace]

You forgot to list the parts that have become available since the inception of the kit,
Please list part no's of the new hot ups and any revamped or altered parts.

Thankyou in advance

Chuck.

[Monsterbrad]

Don't get me wrong I do like this truck but it seems that every time I take it out that piece of **** tranny spits the gears out.
How about all steel gears like 1/8 scale cars have
SCHUMACHER?????
I have had alot of run with this truck but it seems to spend more time on the bench than on the street.
I just think that a little more time invested in design would be better.
This is not meant in a nasty way I just wish we could seee some improvements in after market parts for this truck cause its so freakin fast and fun to drive I might add.
No other truck I have ever had gives me the rush that this truck does but when I have to bench it after every run I just want to sell it.

[InsaneMenace]

Oh how all the problems come out of the wood work now, I totally agree with you that the truck spends most of its time on the bench or in bits, and you would also know that parts for this car are way over priced, I budget to have 100(AUS) costs after a day's running. The drivetrain is way too underengineered for the application at hand, you just can't give it more than 80% gas all the time or it CRAPS itself easily.

I believe the problem is centered around the fact that the drivetrain and 3 speed is based on or the same as the 2wd version, which has only two tires worth of traction, not four. It needs a bigger dia layshaft, with bigger drive pins, bigger brakes, ALL metal gearchange parts and spur gears.

I have spent considerable time just trying to stop this truck from killing gears, and first gear hubs, there are ways to improve it but the ammount of time I have spent "fixing" it is 10 times the time I have spent driving it.

[CRSMP5]

for all the time when i owned one, which i still miss her, i never had issues with the gears.. i do admit the mesh was not correct out of the box, but thats why you preinspect stuff.. i also had issues with well i ran it 16 times or so, of all those times i broke it 4 times, the last time i broke it was the most spetacular and most expensive, wish i would have had it on tape, but after that crash it just was not the same.. the worry of such damage a 2nd time kinda took the fun away..

the drive train i feel is a great set up.. like i said.. never had issues with the gears or anything the worst part was the belt slip with the brakes adjusted to tight.. back that off a tad and it was a non issue..

[InsaneMenace]

Your belt slipping was because the pulley in the rear casing is too small, if it is grey its the small one , the white replacement one is larger. I had the same problem and was sent those replacement parts.

If you run it in loose dirt the gears die all the time, 16 tanks ain't enough to do much damage especially considering that if you ran it in properly you would have only been driving hard for 2/3 of that time.

Same generall statement tho, breaks all the time, 4 times in 16 tanks, thats the problem too make this car tough you gotta fork out BIG money and a lot of the problems you gotta remedy yourself.

Hey Adrian when are you sending me my FREE alloy 1st gear hub??????????????????????????????????, the truck needs that as standard equip so I (and everyone else) shouldn't have to pay for it.

[InsaneMenace]

PS. there is an issue with the tighter belt as it causes more friction at high speed and can cause the layshaft,ect to get VERY hot. This may have been the cause of my melted gearbox casing after 10 or so top speed runs.????????????????????

[vsnakebytev]

Well I just started breaking in the Menace! For some reason I lost radio on it, and it ran into a wall.... so I will be switching it over to FM. But I broke the Hub carrier, and the C- Hub.... or something like that..... So i intend to buy them in aluminum and also I am trying to find aluminum front arms (none in stock anywhere though). Well I am looking to get myself a set of BIG tires and rims..... I like the idea of the Monster Menace. Where would I get the rims and the wheel adaptors? And how does the Transmission react to the bigger wheels???

Thanks for your help!

[InsaneMenace]

the truck will accel slower due to bigger diameter wheels, I haven't tried it myself but I would assume that the clutch might get too hot.

Also make sure that the bigger wheels and tires don't foul on the body and chassis parts.

[vsnakebytev]

I would be ok with the slower accel.... I just dont want to mess anything up! I also want to know where to get the adaptors for the axles, and what rims they will allow me to use!

Thanks for the help

[InsaneMenace]

not sure what adapters or wheels to use but go to this adress http://www.monstertruckparts.com.au/maximizer.htm
and have a look at what adapters are available.

I really don't know what would fit cos I haven't tried it myself. but I think that the wheel hub may be a std size for another type of monster truck, it would be cool if bigger rims would bolt straight on!!

I think a nice set of alloy faced beadlocked rims with bigger offset and simex rubber would be very nice :)

If you do find a solution post it on here so I know it too.

Good luck

[schumachermenac]

insane menace stop being a retard the menaceis awsome but sounds like ur full of bs because u obviously dont know waht ur talking about and the menace never breaks for me and i race and jump huge jumps and thediffs they are exclelent diffs expixcally once u get the tungsten steel thurts bearing and the diff balls and my belt dosent slip one bit uder braking it does ur belt is to lose. know for some of ur dumb things u said "even titanium rear pins bend-add aditional holder in middle of pin, just offset from diff outdrive, may require bit of creativity to fit but it will." u must be jumpin the grand canyon if u bend ti bits ....... sounds like b/sanother dumb thing u said "Bearings seize even before they should-replace with Tamiya or another higher quality bearing, for me they have lasted longer." iif u maintain ur truck properley ur bearings last forever u ever hear of oil..... :eek: another stupid thing u said "layshaft bearing seized after bout 10 tanks-I am in the process of designing a new gearbox half that will accept a bigger bearing." again if u keep ur car maintianed none of this will happen so just dont talk bs cuz it makes u look like a foold heres some pics ofmy menace neverhave any problemswith it besides when i dont check it over be4 i run example not checking the gear mesh stripping gears.......


http://pic14.picturetrail.com/VOL518/2465034/4877602/62789654.jpg

http://pic14.picturetrail.com/VOL518/2465034/4877602/62789661.jpg

http://pic14.picturetrail.com/VOL518/2465034/4877602/61862151.jpg

http://pic14.picturetrail.com/VOL518/2465034/4877602/61862121.jpg
dont run the dual exhaust any more

http://pic14.picturetrail.com/VOL518/2465034/4877602/62807739.jpg

and sry bout the thing about insane menace but im just tired ofitthisinst the first fourm he'scame on and went on and on about nothingthat he has never done

[ehupp01]

amen bro

[schumachermenac]

hey ehupp u agree with me ??? about insanemenace...

[methodman]

hey schumachermenac,

i like your metal body mounts, my plastic ones are the only things i have broken on my menace so far, what`s that pipe on your carb for?

[InsaneMenace]

ROLF, sorry if i offended anyone, you ever ran your truck with that "pipe" on it?

I guess that's a photo of your car when you first got it cos your wheels are in perfect cond, do you putt it around on little grass patches in your backyard??? listening to your awesome dual exhaust???

and my layshaft bearing seized bout 10 tanks from new, so its not "maintanance" or "oil" related, it was running on tarmac so it wouldn't be dirty or nothing either.

my belt was slipping cos one of the pulleys was too small and they sent me a bigger one for the rear, so it wasn't "loose" it was the pulley.

your truck looks pretty and the rims are soo un-damaged "big jumps" well, not on those wheels. you are funny please type more stuff so when I get a way to post pics I can show you my "real" truck and we can compare it to your's. I understand that you have spent lots of money and you are cut that i'm bagging the kit's and that, but I use mine and they are the problems I have come across. Maybe I got pissed when the kit had so many problems from the start? and it was supposed to be good, but at first mine gave me heaps of problems and I had to wait for ages, just to use it.

PS I jump mine off home made ramp and when you air bout 9ft in height and 30+ft in length you can break stuff, OK, little bumps at the local BMX track are not jumps.

[ehupp01]

hey ehupp u agree with me ??? about insanemenace...
Yes O Yes :D
I love my truck and Schuy has been great to work with. I will be racing mine on Sat. at the local track.

[schumachermenac]

schuie is great todeal with and that airfliter is a cold air intake havent tested it jet but willbe tomorw

[schumachermenac]

cold airintake test was good but needs tuning so i took it off and am running the stocker

[ehupp01]

Well I came in third at todays race :( but I'm ok with that. Its only the third time I have ever raced and the first time I ever finished a race. I am just a bad driver but I am getting better.

[vsnakebytev]

Well for all of you out there thinking of doing a Monster truck conversion, the Maximizer Products 17mm wheel adaptors do not work...... Any one know of some wheel adaptors for the HPI MT? Those may fit!

Well yep, just checking in and bringin this thread back to where it belongs, on the top!!!

VSnakeByteV

[InsaneMenace]

if you wanna widen your truck I have been told that losi xxxt front arms will fit as will the xxxnt rear arms but on the rear u gotta use the losi hubs and stuff as well, I ordered a set today (front only), tell ya how they go on. Think some associated d/s will fit front also?

[InsaneMenace]

anyone know what internal mods can be done to the TT21 in the menace???

got pipe/header/bigger cooling head/air filter. What else can be done????can you port this type of engine???

[schumachermenac]

i got a nova pro race head ill post some pics later just got it

[InsaneMenace]

I'm gonna try to do some mods to the engine, I just forked out for a dremel and some bits, so when I got time I'll hook into it. Probably do more harm than good but I will do it in stages and see what makes a good difference, first sleeve porting, and case porting, then knife edge conrod and chamfer crank, then ??? who knows. I looked on RB mods but his pics link isn't working so I'm just gonna wing it.

[magicmathers]

is there any chance du think of taking out the shaft drive, just so u cud try wheelying with it 4 a bit. sorry to say guys i can get next day delivery of all parts living in england and all. still, my choice is now made; menace instead of xtr3e. u agree?

[schumachermenac]

iagree get the menace its alla around better car and no u cant do wheelies with the menace even if u took off the front cvds i tried it

[InsaneMenace]

did some basic mods, the case lines up pretty good with the ports so I didn't touch it at all, the sleeve got a chamfer, and smooth the lower parts of the ports then polished it, the crank got a swoosh out of it and smoothed out the entry under the carb area, also groove in side of crank counterweight. The rod is already partially edged and lightened from the factory so it took only couple a minutes to knife edge it. Ported out the carb also, looks like a ram tube! Hope it goes better.

[magicmathers]

iv done electric and off road (just for fun) both for a while now, but dont have much knoledge on technical stuff like adjusting diff, mixture settings, gear mesh (??) etc. is there any deceint advice in the instr. book and anyway u guys got any basic advice on the stuff that will prevent buying non-arm spares etc

[InsaneMenace]

I guess you just got a new menace? anyway, the manual is pretty good on most things you will need to know, be conservative if in doubt, you will learn best by trying things out. I would reccomend above all else to use silicone or electrical tape to seal up the drivetrain better otherwise if you run it in dirt you will be cleaning it out after every couple a runs, there are some largish openings at the front around the steering assembly and at the back , you can easily see them anyway. Be careful not to seal up the steering or anything tho. I would also say get the carbide balls into the diffs upfront as the stock ones dont last too long. To check the diffs push the spur forward with the wheels on the ground, if you can turn it and the wheels don't turn then the diffs are slipping!

[magicmathers]

ok that sounds great for starters. yeh i WILL be getting my menace after this week sometime, as i am using the weeks works money to fund it (yeh, even though they r built here they aint cheaper here in england! ;) ) another question tho, what is the use of the extra pipe that gopes form the tank straight to the pipe?
cheers

[InsaneMenace]

the pipe provides pressure to the fuel tank to help push the fuel through.

[InsaneMenace]

tried the losi arms they do fit OK but req small mod to them , look a bit weak and some other wider arms will fit better I think the losi ones look weaker than the original, not sure what DS will fit.

[schumachermenac]

yah ill stick with schuie alloy or my custom made stuff

[xdamxincx]

tried the losi arms they do fit OK but req small mod to them , look a bit weak and some other wider arms will fit better I think the losi ones look weaker than the original, not sure what DS will fit.


yes the losi arms are perfect to use .Nice geometry ,nice and lightweight but plastic is weak thats why u upgrade to aluminum losi arms ;)
... and those pesky driveshafts.. o yes .. they were fun to figure out .. :confused: .LOL



http://memimage.cardomain.net/member_images/8/web/104000-104999/104990_82.jpg

[schumachermenac]

Heres some recent pics of my menace let me know what u think

http://pic15.picturetrail.com/VOL629/2585096/5142300/65572097.jpg

http://pic15.picturetrail.com/VOL629/2585096/5142300/65571971.jpg

http://pic15.picturetrail.com/VOL629/2585096/5142300/65571960.jpg

[AdrianM]

You need more purple.

[schumachermenac]

i want more purple........but seems like schuie dosent likethe front arms and yokes as they have been out of stock for over 2 months
and havent seen u on schuies forum adrian? u on there yet

[schumachermenac]

and more pics are at http://www.picturetrail.com/gallery/view?p=999&gid=5142300&uid=2585096&members=1 let me know what u think of it

http://pic15.picturetrail.com/VOL629/2585096/5142300/65578966.jpg

[AdrianM]

Tell me about it! We have seen front arms (U2649) since April. I spoke with Schu UK about this and they have had recurring delay problems with the supplier that is making these arms for us. We are supposed to have 200 on the the UK this week so it should be 2 weeks until we see them stateside.

U2648 - Alloy Yokes are in stock now.

[schumachermenac]

U2648 Alloy Yoke - Menace (pr) Out of Stock thats what ur website says.....

[magicmathers]

ok, so just broke it in today, rich idle for a tank, then fairly rich half throttle goin on grass for two tanks, is it ok for me to full pelt it now? god second gear sounded good, but isit normal to havel a blue/purple clutch after first round, if not whats going on?

[magicmathers]

o and buy the way if yo cant get the pl mashers on, the tamiya mad bull tires work a treat, if a bit tight getting on!

[AdrianM]

Whoops...update problem! I will look into it. You should be able to order U2648 on line later this afternoon.

[schumachermenac]

ok thnx adrian

[InsaneMenace]

yes the losi arms are perfect to use .Nice geometry ,nice and lightweight but plastic is weak thats why u upgrade to aluminum losi arms ;)
... and those pesky driveshafts.. o yes .. they were fun to figure out .. :confused: .LOL



http://memimage.cardomain.net/member_images/8/web/104000-104999/104990_82.jpg


what DS did you use on it???, I guess cos they have cvd's then I just need longer bones for them?, you have it figured out so PLEASE tell us!!!!

[xdamxincx]

hmm ... i cant remember...lol

[InsaneMenace]

hmm ... i cant remember...lol


Oh yeah thats helpful

dcat icat ccat kcat hcat ecat acat dcat

?no cat

[xdamxincx]

Oh yeah thats helpful

dcat icat ccat kcat hcat ecat acat dcat

?no cat
cats are cool.... i got 2 .... if u want to pick my brain u will have to do it in private... on aim... xdamxincx

[alfaracer]

Hi ,
I am looking for some nice RIMS, that will fit my Menace.
anyone knows a brand or site where I could find them ?
thx !

[InsaneMenace]

not sure on rims mate

for any menace problems or info go to

www.glypo.co.uk

[Kevin M]

does anyone have a exploded diagram of the clutch assembly? i have a prob with my clutch , i took it off and the bearings were in a bunch of pieces. i am lost

[Kevin M]

never mind, i found one
sorry

[schumachermenac]

My menace on ebay bid!!!! if intrested (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=19168&item=5927295330&rd=1&ssPageName=WDVW)

Thanks guys

[DodgeRamSRT]

I bought my Menace last spring. Big mistake at this point. I just wanted it for the wow factor in the parking lot. I never took it off road. After a couple front a-arms and two trannies in a half gallon of fuel. I parked it for the summer. I took it out last weekend for a few speed runs in a nearby lot. Drove around a little checked the tune, everything seemed OK. I started to hot lap this parking lot and was having a great time. On the second tank, I heard a whirring noise, pulled it up to me and pulled a leaf out of the rear CV. Drove back out and after a few laps, the noise was back, I figured it was another leaf. The next lap going into a turn at a pretty good clip, the truck just locks up and goes flipping violently across the lot into a building. The front wheels were hanging by the shocks etc, didn't look good. After disassembly, I find the nut (a nylon locknut no less, the center one for the front bumper) was in with the belt. The belt was half shredded and wrapped around the pulleys taking out the front & rear diff pulleys and fences, the steel layshaft, both idler pulleys, and the heat generated from the belt strands in just one or two laps wiped out 1 of the idler pulley bearings and the layshaft mount. Combined with crash damage which includes a bent chassis, and some misc pieces, I'm needing to shell out another $200 to put this nearly new truck back on the road. I'm more than just a little ticked off at this thing. I'm not a rich person, this $200 could go to allot of better things. So, I need some advise because I feel I'm at a crossroad. Do I scrape up the ching to fix it, and probably keep fixing this underdesigned moneypit? Or do I cut my losses and chalk it up to $499 worth of bad experience? Now I remember why I didn't want a belt drive car, and Schumacher isn't exactly on my "attaboy" list with this thing. Sorry for the long post, but maybe it'll help someone to check the nut for their bumper so the same thing doesn't happen to them - plus I needed to vent a little.

[doesgo]

That SUCKS! Man, I'm really sorry to hear that.

At this point, since you've never really been happy with your Menace, I'd sell it for parts. At least you'll get something out of it. Not a ton, but more than nothing!

[tjones]

I bought my Menace last spring. Big mistake at this point. I just wanted it for the wow factor in the parking lot. I never took it off road. After a couple front a-arms and two trannies in a half gallon of fuel. I parked it for the summer. I took it out last weekend for a few speed runs in a nearby lot. Drove around a little checked the tune, everything seemed OK. I started to hot lap this parking lot and was having a great time. On the second tank, I heard a whirring noise, pulled it up to me and pulled a leaf out of the rear CV. Drove back out and after a few laps, the noise was back, I figured it was another leaf. The next lap going into a turn at a pretty good clip, the truck just locks up and goes flipping violently across the lot into a building. The front wheels were hanging by the shocks etc, didn't look good. After disassembly, I find the nut (a nylon locknut no less, the center one for the front bumper) was in with the belt. The belt was half shredded and wrapped around the pulleys taking out the front & rear diff pulleys and fences, the steel layshaft, both idler pulleys, and the heat generated from the belt strands in just one or two laps wiped out 1 of the idler pulley bearings and the layshaft mount. Combined with crash damage which includes a bent chassis, and some misc pieces, I'm needing to shell out another $200 to put this nearly new truck back on the road. I'm more than just a little ticked off at this thing. I'm not a rich person, this $200 could go to allot of better things. So, I need some advise because I feel I'm at a crossroad. Do I scrape up the ching to fix it, and probably keep fixing this underdesigned moneypit? Or do I cut my losses and chalk it up to $499 worth of bad experience? Now I remember why I didn't want a belt drive car, and Schumacher isn't exactly on my "attaboy" list with this thing. Sorry for the long post, but maybe it'll help someone to check the nut for their bumper so the same thing doesn't happen to them - plus I needed to vent a little.
I really feel your pain....really I bought my menace in the spring also. I would run it on Fridays at the local parking lot runs . Spent tons of cash on broken parts and finally getting frustrated enough to spend the dough on everything alloy. If they sold it I bought it. Then I lost the little pin for the alloy yoke and I cold not get the part anywhere. I put the plastic pieces back in and thought every thing was going to be good. NOPE.... I took it out yesterday ran it for a while it was doing ok THE THING IS FAST AS HELL TOO FAST anyway the brake failed I hit a parking block and well....If I have to spend $200 I think I will be getting off easy... I am buying a REVO tomorrow!!!
I will eventually fix the Menace because nothing can beat it but for now look for the all black REVO at the track

[tjones]

By the way I spoke to Adrian at Schumacher asked for help ...like being able to send it to them for repair or sending them my truck plus cash for a new one and he laughed at me

[DodgeRamSRT]

By the way I spoke to Adrian at Schumacher asked for help ...like being able to send it to them for repair or sending them my truck plus cash for a new one and he laughed at me
I didn't even bother to talk to Schumacher about this. After my last dealings with them about the tranny (last spring) they made it pretty clear they don't want me to spend any more money on their products because they don't appreciate it. I guess for now it'll sit in a box and I'll spend my money somewhere else. Maybe some day I'll fix it. Good luck with yours.

[tjones]

I just picked up my new REVO!!!! Good luck guys....and Adrian ...thanks for nothing!!!

[AdrianM]

Any of you that have worked in a service industry know you can't make everyone happy all the time. We try but sometimes its just not going to happen. I think anyone that has dealt with us can chime in to say how superior our customer service really is. We have sent call tags to pick up problem cars, we have made free repairs when we shouldn't have many times.

tjones - I don't think I have ever laughed at a customer. If I did I sincerely apologize. It was not my intention to do so.

Regarding your statement:

By the way I spoke to Adrian at Schumacher asked for help ...like being able to send it to them for repair or sending them my truck plus cash for a new one and he laughed at me

We do not offer exchanges for complete vehicles even for a fee. We make parts for our cars so that they can be repaired. Most modelers should be able to do all repairs on our cars with ease as they aren't very complicated. In very special cases we will do repairs for a customers. Mostly to help out moms and kids that aren't mechanically inclined. Usually we direct customers to local hobby shops for help.

I hope you enjoy your REVO. I just got one myself and its pretty cool....I just wish it was faster...LOL! Uhh...I wasn't laughing at you just now. :D

[tjones]

Any of you that have worked in a service industry know you can't make everyone happy all the time. We try but sometimes its just not going to happen. I think anyone that has dealt with us can chime in to say how superior our customer service really is. We have sent call tags to pick up problem cars, we have made free repairs when we shouldn't have many times.

tjones - I don't think I have ever laughed at a customer. If I did I sincerely apologize. It was not my intention to do so.

Regarding your statement:

By the way I spoke to Adrian at Schumacher asked for help ...like being able to send it to them for repair or sending them my truck plus cash for a new one and he laughed at me

We do not offer exchanges for complete vehicles even for a fee. We make parts for our cars so that they can be repaired. Most modelers should be able to do all repairs on our cars with ease as they aren't very complicated. In very special cases we will do repairs for a customers. Mostly to help out moms and kids that aren't mechanically inclined. Usually we direct customers to local hobby shops for help.

I hope you enjoy your REVO. I just got one myself and its pretty cool....I just wish it was faster...LOL! Uhh...I wasn't laughing at you just now. :D


Adrian
I wish the Revo was faster too!!! I accept your apology. I love my Menace it is an incredible (or was) truck, I will eventually repair it. You guys have given me great customer service in the past and I should not have expected you to take the car back or to repair it. I will call soon and start ordering parts to repair my menace in time for spring. (Bent Chassis,Battery box, servo,front diff,and center belt cover)... it is going to be a looooong winter.

[glypo]

Hi Guys,

Been a little while since I posted in here, but I've been busy working on my website sorting out a new section dedicated to the Menace.

In the process I seem to have picked up a very large amount of Menace users on my forum, and I think I'd be right in saying it's the, or at least one of the, busiest Menace forums on the net. I've even got a few employees who actually work and build the cars, not bad going!

Reason I'm posting this is to let you know in a month or so I'll have a fully operating 'Menace Section' on my website, and the way it looks now is nothing like it will. It will be reader addable, so everyone can upload their set-ups and tips easily, will look a lot nicer as well.

The mods section should be good, and not only will it cover my mods (.26 engine, side mounted (now inline) rb pipe and so on), it will cover some other peoples who have done some serious work.

I'll post back here in a month or so hopefully telling you all it's done!

(http://www.glypo.co.uk)

[sabelwolf]

Hi there! im a newbe at this RC stuff, but i had a cupple of electric cars and a fuel car ages ago. last moth i desided to get a car, and i choose the "Menace 21".

The car is brutal, so i need to take it easy with it to start with, but i cant help myself hitting the throttle to the max somtimes :) (i have runned the car for like 12-15 tanks so i guess its ok to "burnout" now and then)

Anyways, since im abit new on this, im asking for some help in the case of things i can do with the car to make it even go "faster" and there is probably alot of "twinking" i can do without knowing about it.

im experiencing some problems with the tires on the car tho.. when i put the trottle to the max for some time, the rubber flyes of the tire :o
I know i can fix this easy with some glue, but i used superglue (i know its a NO NO to use superglue) , but thats the only thing i had.
I red in the manual about high-speed and low speed, so i asked the guy in the hobbyshop to set the mixture for rich to start with so the motor wont brake.not that i have runnes some tanks of fuel, i wanna set the car to highspeed, but to be honnest, i have no clue how to do it.. i red in the manual that you turn the "screw" corburettor from all the way inn 2 turns out..im not sure if this is right,but it looks like the car flyes like HELL :)
how can i know if the car is fintuned or not when im not sure if i ever seen it on its maximum performance?

hope you hardcore guys can give me some advise.
cheers

Christian

[escapmp]

ive owned a menace and it was total junk but thats my opion and by the way it handles nothing like a 1/8 scale buggy

[Combatcm]

I'd like to ask something about this car. In the hands of a person who can tune an engine, takes it easy while driving, does little jumping, can fix their own car, can diagnose drivetrain problems and clutch problems, can a person successfully use this car and have a successful experiance? Or does it just not work good?

[methodman]

Combat,

i would say its a great little truck, the engine is real nice one tons of power and easy to tune (if you feel the need to go faster??!!) theres nothing out there that has the power like the menace does, just get one you wont regret it!