Thunder Tiger EK4 [Archive] - Page 5

ekizzle

11-19-2005, 01:49 AM

never timed it,guess around ten minutes or so?tank could have been bigger for the size of engine installed,i always thought :(

To be honest I never gave much thought to how long of run time I'm getting becuase I'm the type to keep my fuel bottle on my side while running. I just drive it next to me and fill the tank when ever I think about it. Of course I don't race I just bash. Next time I'm out I will time it just to see.

rawdy rider

11-21-2005, 07:10 AM

well i found out why my engine wont start.broken ring!!and all thanks to the darned thing running away ,overturning and then overrevving.I believe that does the trick!!Dammit!!

ekizzle

11-26-2005, 01:49 AM

For those who have EK4's and are running them what other trucks have you come across that might give the EK4 a challenge in torque and or Power to weight comparison? I'm looking for answers of people who have actually ran with other trucks that might fit this discription. Not guesses or edgucated predictions. I have ran with alot of trucks that have claimed to match the EK4 in the power department only to be very disappointed. here's my short list.
Gen .46
savage .25.26.46
savage .30 collari (I think he said)
T-maxx 2.5.21.25 etc...
LST .26.25
This is my short list I forget alot of the others I've ran with with oversized (.21plus) motors. Alot of them ran really well and some faster then a truck should be allowed but none of them match the Ek4's brute strength. What are my fellow EK4 people finding?
I must also mention I run my EK4 closer to the V-1 method. I never had issues with my carb so I still run the old carb wide open.

performula

11-27-2005, 08:10 AM

ekizzle

11-29-2005, 04:16 AM

I have always been a big fan of the EK4 by looks alone and that engine; however, it never took off completely and it is very rare. I like being different than everyone, but not to where I cannot get parts. My guess is that when TT comes out with their TTR truggy they will drop this kit.

Anyone know for sure?

I have been wandering the same thing myself. However when ever I can get through to ACE/TTR they seem to be pleased with the EK4's "growing popularity". I did not want to be a Smart arse with the guy but I told him that I felt thunder tiger really missed the boat on this truck. I then went on to explain about the lack of response to early issues and almost no promotion. He said that TTR to this day runs adds on this truck and as a whole it seems to be selling well. I can't say that I agree with that myself. I do find that parts are hard to find.

just my two cents.

rawdy rider

11-30-2005, 02:46 PM

TT have put out a fantastic product,but dont seem to want to refine it.Ever since i bought my ek ive been having problems.Its one thing after the other.Shocks breaking(its no wonder they're plastic),drive shafts breaking on piddly little jumps(thanks to rear axles being too long and biting into the drive shafts on shock compression),losing drive to either the front or the rear wheels thanks to grub screws coming loose on the centre rigid axles!
No proper battery case,wiring exposed does not help either,causes corroded connectors after a while.which causes a darned run away!This caused my ek to go,turn turtle,over rev and break the engine ring,which i believe happens when theres no load on the engine.So its one thing after the other.
TT just need to beef up the drive train and install some decent shocks on the EK(metal) which should sort out a lot of problems,(and heartbun)!!
:mad:

performula

11-30-2005, 05:22 PM

That's the thing, I would buy one, but everyone says that they constantly need attention. That's why I want an MT to avoid tooling or keep it to a minimum. This thing screams look at me it's hard to resist.

What is the lowest price available on the Net?

ekizzle

12-01-2005, 03:06 AM

I have heard of people having a few of those issues. But generally only one or two of those issues. The only problem I can say that I have shared with you is the grub screw problem. I ended up just going with the Red lable loc-tite and never again. I have to admit that I'm not extremely rough on my Ek4 as far as high jumps etc... I just can see myself making 400 plus bucks go flying through the air. I leave that for others to do. my Ek4 seems to rock solid since I got the MSJ diff cases. To be honest I never ran into the diff issue before but the cases give me peace of mind. it just feel good to be able to go the length of a football field doing 30 plus MPH on two wheels! no matter what truck you get if you ever drive beside a well tuned Ek4 you will find yourself wanting something with that same power to wieght ratio. God forbid someone let you drive one you will be hooked. I know I've allowed a few of my local fellow R/C guys drive it and they almost refuse to go back to thier own trucks. As a matter of fact one of my friends just traded one of his savages with a .26 motor (I think) for a EK4. Of course I let him drive the EK4 last weekend. LOL! I had to constantly tell him "4 wheels please you can't control it wheel the drive wheels are in the air!" He just kept saying I've gotta have one of these.

rawdy rider

12-02-2005, 03:24 PM

Yes,and i forgot to mention the darned header which comes loose and which in turn burns the gasket which in turn makes a mess of things!Believe me guys i have been gentle with the darned thing,im 43 and sober and an aeromodeller since years so i know how to handle and take care of things,but there has hardly been a time i have not come back with the Ek in one piece!But i know what you mean,if one is mechanically minded nothing like this one!!
I bought a Hpi 4.6 seeing the performance of my friends 25,and believe me its one trouble free vehicle.Have since put in the three speeder,and woww.I dragged the 46 when it was two speed with a friends Ek and it was pretty even steven.
Im looking for the MSJ two speed g/box.Unlimited conversion kit any good?and is it available?Can anyone help?
Have got metal shocks just recently,will put em together and see,looking forward to recieving my piston ring sleeve set tomorrow and then its gonna be move the planet backwards time!! ;)

performula

12-02-2005, 07:26 PM

What is MSJ?

rawdy rider

12-03-2005, 02:02 AM

What is MSJ?
They make high quality anodized aluminum parts for the EK

Stalker911

12-03-2005, 02:48 AM

Correction they MADE high quality aluminum parts for the EK4... they no longer are around :(

Most of you here probably don't know me but if you've been on ACE's or Midmad's EK4 forum then you probably know who I am... I was talkign to one of the guys @ ACE and I was assured that the EK4 is not scheduled to be discontinued... it's apparently still goign to be around for some time.

I TOTALLY agree about them missign the boat though... It's time that it got a rework.. it's based of off a buggy that's like what, 6 years old now?? It doesn't need much, just a bit... I may miss posts here as I don't check that often but if there's something you want an answer to just PM me that you left a post and I'll check it out.

rawdy rider

12-06-2005, 09:10 AM

Ace is never gonna admit TT are planning to do away with the EK.I certainly hope they dont!Just needs a few simple modifications is about all.TT can certainly take over the monster truck market with this product if they just paid a little attention to their product.

Stalker911

12-06-2005, 03:12 PM

Well compared to the newest 1/8th MT's out there the EK4 does need a large update IMHO. Stretched chassis would be a GREAT place to start.... But yes, the .70 makes it great :D

RCCARTMAN

12-06-2005, 09:55 PM

I need to get in touch with the guys from MSJ and autohaus. I need some 2 speed kits and the diff cases.

rawdy rider

12-07-2005, 03:13 AM

I need to get in touch with the guys from MSJ and autohaus. I need some 2 speed kits and the diff cases.
Like the Stalker said your best bet would be to post on Midmad.com or E-Bay.

Stalker911

12-07-2005, 05:08 AM

Yup, MSJ is for sure not around anymore and I don't think AutoHaus is either... and if they are they don't do any EK4 stuff... check midmad.com and you'll see about putting an OFNA 2 speed on there...

rawdy rider

12-07-2005, 04:10 PM

Just been reading your article on the Ofna two speed conversion on midmad,Stalker.Good work.

rawdy rider

12-07-2005, 04:18 PM

By the way guys.Got my engine parts in from Singapore last night,spent the afternoon rebuilding my engine,metal shocks (EB_4 installed),ready to rock!!Now if i can just get that two speed conversion done...hmmmm..... ;)

RCCARTMAN

12-07-2005, 11:38 PM

It seems they disappeared. The same thing happened with Barnburner Enterprises, and the Out of the Box Company. So sad that R/C businesses cant maintain.

rawdy rider

12-12-2005, 03:07 AM

Motor fixed,now differential gears found bust!! Horse cr**!! :mad:

ekizzle

12-28-2005, 04:28 AM

Motor fixed,now differential gears found bust!! Horse cr**!! :mad:

It won't be long before Billet works will be offering the Alloy diff cases.
http://www.midmad.com/forum/viewthread.php?tid=9292

I have the MSJ version and there's no looking back!
I can't wait to see what every body got for X-mas. I have so much fun showing them the insane behavior of the EK4. Like I said before nothing is quite like this beast! good luck with yours!

RCCARTMAN

12-28-2005, 09:28 PM

their products look like Triple H racing parts.

tanno

01-02-2006, 07:19 AM

Do any of y'all have a pic that you could post of the old starter back plate and coupling ( the one that caused all the trouble in the first place ) ?
I am looking for a pic to compare it to the new one on my V2 (the pics of which I have posted above).

Thanks and safe runnings.

I do! I do!

This is a pic of the original head and starter plate.

tanno

01-02-2006, 07:34 AM

Pistole, what you're failing to appreciate it is that we are in this hobby not for the economics of it, but for more ethereal reasons. We can apply any number of theories (8 x the cost of you truck is still a long way from true cost of a 1:1 scale monster truck, etc....), but they entirely miss the mark. We cannot justify what we spend based on how practical a purchase is... We buy what tugs at our heart, and if nice, shiny, billet aluminum diff cases are what do so, and we have the means, then we shouldn't try to justify their purchase. I mean, did I REALLY need a .70-powered monster truck? Practically, NO--emotionally, ABSOLUTELY!!! Gues which side won....:D

I couldn't have said this better myself. This is my second EK-4 (first one was stolen). Got a new one last week (~$700 truck and elec.), ran it once starting the break-in process and wrecked it! Broke a wheel, servo saver, and lower a-arm mount, bent universal mount, lower a-arm pin, and lower "ball-joint".
Now, after this, several safeguards went into place, and parts were ordered. Also ordered the 2-speed setup from Midman's site and various other parts. This truck came with the MSJ starter, cooling head and flywheel. I went on a spending spree and spent about $500 in parts and upgrades just in the last 2 days!
I was very surprised to find that MSJ, HHH, and Autohaus are all out of buisness or just not selling anything. I have found that Billetworks is there, but he doesn't have much in stock. And it doesn't look as though you can purchase a place in line either. So, I've now reverted to looking for cross compatibility with other trucks. The EB4 uses lots of the same parts. Dominator and Titan wheels fit just fine. I've got a set of each on the way.

I'm prolly just stating everything that everyone else here has been able to keep up with, but since the loss of my last truck about 1 1/2 years ago, I stayed out of it.

Anyway, I'm back! And I'm catching up!

ekizzle

01-02-2006, 08:39 AM

The Ek4 addiction is not something that can be put in to words. All I can say is if you don't understand the love for this truck. All you have to do is drive one. I have had many fellow R/C nuts ask why would you want that over powered EB4 on roids? I just swap remotes with them for a few passes on the running fields. Then I get ready to have to tell them three or four times to "ok it's time to trade back". Then they go on about how "crazy" that thing is! Then where did you get it? etc...

I still have the V1 with MSJ parts on it and I still can't find a reason to get another truck! I know alot of the new ones have alot over this truck. But throttle response is never one of them! Power to weight is insane!

Marks324

01-02-2006, 09:01 PM

I Have a Savage with a TT Conversion kit and as many people on here i have had the problems of blowing my engine up. but i am thinking about putting the
OS.30 in it what do you think the comparison will be any input form anyone ???

14/52 2speed 40series LittleJoe's

tanno

01-02-2006, 09:45 PM

Now that I've gotten a new EK-4, I'm a little confused. I believe I have a version of this truck that no one has talked about. I have something like a Version 1 1/2.

Let me explain:

I got this truck from a hobby shop that had this truck on display only and never run. That said;

It came with the MSJ head, starter plate, and flywheel... so, can't tell version from those.
I have this insert in the carb that I've read supposed to be the version 2.
I DON'T have the thru-bolted gearboxes though.
I have found that just about everything that I pulled loose to locktight, already had some form of thread locker on it. Except the lugnuts, and the front spindle mounts.
The diffs are packed solid with the factory brown stuff.
The pressure nipple on the muffler is in the old location (near the end).

What's your thoughts?

ekizzle

01-03-2006, 03:00 AM

I think you might have a version that was in transition between the V-1 and the V-2! I would have you contact Ace/TTR and find out if they will ship you the throuh bolts. As far as the muffler preasure nipple Just get a same size set-screw and plug the old hole. Get a same size or slightly smaller bit and drill a hole where you want it and the nipple threads will bite. That's what I did. I personally have never had trouble tuning my beast so I never went with the carb insert. I like it when she breaths full go!

tanno

01-03-2006, 05:20 AM

Marks324

01-03-2006, 09:47 PM

I have a TTP.70BX Forsale it needs a Piston & Ring I have the new Sleve & conrod & the New Gasket set i also have the Original conrod that is fine. this engine only has 1 tank of fuel ran through it. i guess i had it set too Rich. i am
not rebuilding a bought a OS .30
that is a killer price for this engine
Also i have a NEW in the Package 1 way berring
$125.00 OBO For everything i will send pic's if you ask
marks324@comcast.net

rawdy rider

01-04-2006, 03:41 AM

K. After it's broke in, I'll try running it without the carb insert and see what difference it makes. It would seem to reason that it reduces the amount of air intake, and inturn, fuel. I wonder was this to get better gas mileage? or to tame the beast so as not to strip the rearend as it's notorious for.

I don't think they'll tell us the REAL reasoning behind it though.
Its called a restrictor,and as the name implies it restricts the output of the engine.You can use it to make the power output more manageable to suit the track conditions. ;)

tanno

01-04-2006, 07:06 AM

But, but... isn't that called Throttle Management?

And all this time I was thinking that most people wanted MORE power from this engine. Geeez...times do change. :rolleyes:

ekizzle

01-05-2006, 02:37 AM

But, but... isn't that called Throttle Management?

And all this time I was thinking that most people wanted MORE power from this engine. Geeez...times do change. :rolleyes:

This truck is not for the track if you ask me! The front wheels have to be on the ground to handle curbs! LOL! So I did not see any point to restricting this beast. I personally feel that this is the reason people buy this truck. It has power like nothing else. However I was also told that some people wanted something that tuned closer to a none ringed motor. I can only say that I never had issue with tuning becuase I knew that ringed motors have to run sloppy rich. I also know that ringed motor will last almost twice as long as non-ringed motor if tuned properly! Good luck with your Ek4 welcome to the .70 addiction! LOL! :D

rawdy rider

01-06-2006, 10:42 AM

The EK is definitely not for the track.In fact that power will become a minus point.Niftier trucks will pass it by just on handling alone,but thats not where it shines anyway.Challenge anyone to a drag anyday and stomp them.(though the competition is getting tough)!
The engine has a definite edge over the standard non ringed engines in the reliability and starting department.Also no nitro fuel needed with this one.Just run straight 80-20 fuel (castor)or plain Klotz with a little(3%) castor added.This way you are going to cut down on the wear and tear and there will be no drop in performance,as performance is there a plenty.Do keep it nice and rich as well ;)

rawdy rider

01-06-2006, 10:45 AM

i believe theres a guy running one with an OS.Max .90 Vrdf engine,whos getting upto 90 mph!Now thats the ticket :eek:

Marks324

01-07-2006, 08:28 PM

tanno

01-07-2006, 10:49 PM

i believe theres a guy running one with an OS.Max .90 Vrdf engine,whos getting upto 90 mph!Now thats the ticket :eek:

This has been stated before and also has been disproven. 90mph is only a fictishish (sp?) number dreamed up by over-exaggerating people. :eek:

I Put the New Piston & Ring in the engine now it is ready for
Break In . and it is still forsale

I'll put my dibs in on that motor if it doesn't sell by Friday morning.

RCCARTMAN

01-07-2006, 10:53 PM

90 mph... Drugs are bad uhm..kay just kidding but not likely... a .90 would probably max out under 25,000 RPM, and don't think the gearing is possible.

ekizzle

01-09-2006, 02:16 AM

I can't say that I really want my monster truck hitting those types of speeds! LOL! Trying to control those speed with a high center of gravity!!!! Wow! I run a 18 tooth clutch and I have the stock rims and tire set up. So I'm getting in the 50 MPH ball park. I can't say that I have met a Monster truck that smokes me at 50. However no matter who it is I always get them on the take off. LOL!

Marks324

01-09-2006, 08:20 AM

This has been stated before and also has been disproven. 90mph is only a fictishish (sp?) number dreamed up by over-exaggerating people. :eek:

I'll put my dibs in on that motor if it doesn't sell by Friday morning.

It is still forsale

rawdy rider

01-09-2006, 02:58 PM

The Stalker(midmad) should know if the ninety bit is true or not.Someone give him a holler!! :)

tanno

01-14-2006, 11:32 AM

So far, according to this thread, 58mph is the record.

http://www.midmad.com/forum/viewthread.php?tid=6643#pid48387

tanno

01-14-2006, 03:19 PM

I thought I would share some pics with you guys. This is my EK4 fitted with Monter Pirate 2-speed tranny, wheels and tires.

ekizzle

01-15-2006, 12:07 PM

man that's one sweet truck! I use the old style clutch and I only run in open areas I do very little start and stop so I'm pretty easy on the clutch. I'm interested in trying the MP two speed how much did that set you back? I know they have a metal version on it is this the one you have?

tanno

01-15-2006, 02:22 PM

I did order the steel gears....I just don't trust plastic.

Obtained by Ace Hardware Hobbies (http://www.acehardwarehobbies.com):

1 x GEAR SET SCREW ON BELL 12/16 (OFN18908) = $11.96
1 x 2-Speed Steel Gears (OFN1891*) = $47.96
Spur Gear Size 48/52T #18911
1 x 2-SPEED GEAR BOX (OFN18990) = $111.96
1 x Clutch Shim Kit (OFN10099) = $4.95
------------------------------------------------------
Sub-Total: $176.83
Tax: $0.00
UPS Ground - 0.6 lbs.: $7.95
Total: $184.78

I ordered and installed this stuff under the guidence of http://www.midmad.com/ek4/2speed/ek42speed.html

Good luck! I broke a previously bent front universal bone.....waiting on replacement.
My truck is now known as the EK4 Pirate. :D

ekizzle

01-16-2006, 04:14 AM

$184! man I don't think I could sneak that one past the wife! LOL! I'm getting around the 50 MPH mark with the V1 clutch and 18 tooth bell :D . Does the two speed make that big of difference?

tanno

01-16-2006, 04:28 AM

Luckily, I don't have a wife to get around. ;) This makes the playground so much bigger! :D

As far as I can tell, yeah. I was trying to find the shift point today and didn't think it was shifting. I loosened the adjustment a little at a time and only to smell a smoking clutch. :( It must have been shifting, because when I tore it apart to deglaze the clutch, I found the transmission stuck in second gear; I believe I had the adjustment too far out. Now that I've "freshened" up the clutch, vented the bell (I don't have access to a mill, so a good ol' fashioned 6" bench grinder did wonders. :D ), and re-adjusted the tranny, I'll be out again tomorrow for testing again.

hot pipe

01-18-2006, 04:29 PM

someone here have a pic.. of the msj starter??
I just bought the ek4 v.1 at a local hobby shop....I think i have the factory starter on it...it slipps but will catch enough to start it... I've herd else were about useing a 1/8 scale starter box,but not sure on the dual motor or the single motor ...or even a hand held bump start....
the truck cmae wit the msj : flywheel,cooling head,K&N air filter... other then that it is all stock.
also on the engine problem every one was or is still having with the v.1...ahs anyone really found the problem with the busted conrod,piston ring????

I my self come to the conclution that???
1. (con rod breakage) was because of the coupler loosening up and causing the shaft to vibrate it to the crank case...causing it to brake...
2.maybe a hydro lock from the rich settings of fuel mixture..at low rpm cause it to load up...or not to clean out the excess oil in the crank case..

1. (piston ring breakage)my first thought would be the pin in the ring grove on the (piston)is to short for the ring causeing it to walk or vibrate around the piston ,and causing it to fail..
2. that the pin is falling out of the ring grove when the engine get's up to temp...maybe the piston/chamber are heating up be fore the pin,and causing the pin to loosen up and fall out of it's position in the piston ring grove...

this just my thought's of what mite happen to cause thes things to fail...not sure just trowing some thought's out there...

anyone have an opinion on that ...please feel free!!!

hot pipe

01-19-2006, 03:09 AM

never mind on the starter..tanno had a picture of the head/starter plate...same starter plat on mine... guess i'll have to go to midmad forum to get a msj starter set up. thanks tanno for the pic!!

by the way! what about a GMS 120..LOL! insane thought with that MP 2 speed...to bad they don't make a 48/52 bell for that...LOL!

tanno

01-19-2006, 07:56 AM

You're welcome. :)

hot pipe

01-19-2006, 03:54 PM

hay guys!
anyone have hopups! they want to sell...

hot pipe

01-19-2006, 03:58 PM

hay guys!
anyone have hopups! they want to sell...because I'm having a problem getting registered on midmad forum...

tanno

01-20-2006, 08:28 PM

I thought I would post another pic for all to see..
Can you tell that I'm a proud father of this EK?

hot pipe

01-20-2006, 09:44 PM

lol! cool body!
man i've been trying to register with midmad fourm to chat with you guy's on there... but it just dosn't want me to register.???LOL! I e-mailed jack! and waiting for him to reply..I know he's busy so not getting to impiantent... but man! i need some parts! not really,but would love to have some hopups...

ekizzle

01-21-2006, 05:21 AM

Wow that truck looks really good! Man I'm going to have to get mine out and go bashing this weekend!

tanno

01-22-2006, 12:17 AM

I don't intentionally go "bashing", but I seem to break something every time I run the damn thing! :rolleyes: I've broken both front universals, and now an a-arm. I've epoxied and cable-tied the a-arm for one last run before I have no choice but to shelf it until parts arrive. :( I really wish someone would stock parts for this thing. It looks as though I'm going to have to do it. I've been ordering 3 of each item that breaks. Eventually, I'll be able to build at least two trucks! :rolleyes:

I was able to test and tune the two-speed tranny finally! It works GREAT!! :D :D The Losi tires "diamond" on me at full run in second gear. These tires aren't stiff enough to hold shape at high speed. I guess the good side of it is ground clearance is higher the faster it goes. :D

After I "vented" the clutch bell, I've had absolutely no issues with the clutch overheating! :D

tanno

01-22-2006, 02:16 PM

I finally got my Venom Speed and Temp monitors in! I will be installing them today after a descent cleanup. Then I will be able to report temp and speed to you guys.

ekizzle

01-22-2006, 10:41 PM

I finally got my Venom Speed and Temp monitors in! I will be installing them today after a descent cleanup. Then I will be able to report temp and speed to you guys.

I hope you show us some more pictures soon topless with temp etc... installed. no one knows that unless you see this truck in action words, Pics and vids simply don't do this truck justice! LOL! EK4 rocks!

tanno

01-23-2006, 12:47 AM

Well, my first attempt at a report is nothing....I shut the truck off before I remembered to read the displays. They zero out when power is cycled.
But, I ran it again and got a max speed reading of 90mph :eek: , but I think that's incorrect. I had set the wheel circumfrence(sp?) of 17.9 into this thing and double-checked it after the 90mph reading....it's still set at 17.9. I will re-measure the wheel circ. to ensure I didn't read the tape wrong. Don't get me wrong, it was FLYING, but I don't believe it was THAT fast. :confused: I ran out of room to go any faster...I had to stop. I ensured that the brakes worked REALLY good. :rolleyes:

UPDATE: I found that I'd set it up wrong! :eek: I didn't do more than skim the instructions before....now that I've read them, I'll set it up correctly now. My bad.

I'm thinking about buying another truck to run when this one breaks.

I have a hard time getting anyone to join me to shoot vids, but that day WILL come. :D I will try to shoot some vids on my own, but it will be limited as I only have my phone to do that.

More pics will come, but I can't seem to get more than one pic per post to be accepted.

hot pipe

01-23-2006, 10:24 PM

zips's! i was wondering why those thing's where on the arm's. :) :) well found out last night...front lowwer pivot ball popped out. :D :D no braky!braky!

hot pipe

01-26-2006, 12:34 AM

http://photos.yahoo.com/ph/my_photos well it noting to brag about to much.LOL! it prewtty much stock other then the head,flywheel,aircleaner...but it's still running. :D

tanno

01-26-2006, 02:57 AM

Try posting the link to your pics. That link will only point to the pics that the person who clicked them has.

ekizzle

01-28-2006, 01:28 AM

Hey this company might be the answer to the aftermarket issues with the beloved EK4! These guys said us EK4 loyal nuts simply need to contact them with our interest and they will concider producing parts! a guy over at midman posted picks on of motor mounts he got from them and I must say they look like the best After market company yet. I mean they use lighter weight material and the work looks really pretty!

http://novarcproducts.com/

hot pipe

01-29-2006, 10:22 PM

heres the link: http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/chevy10in38tires/album?dir.=501a&.src=ph&store=&prodid=&.done=http%3a//photos.yahoo.com/ph/my_photos

let me know if this works...i think the other link was to all my photos on my yahoo home page...also not sure if you can veiw them unless i'm logged in to my home page...for some reason :confused: the link that takes you directly to my ek4 pics...took me to all my photo's that i have posted on my home page..so if you get all my pic's just go to my ek4 pics...also check my truck pics out....there's a sweet looking 03 chevy 4x4 in there...cna you say??4 link suspension F/R!!! cool as full size i have ever seen!

hot pipe

01-29-2006, 11:11 PM

ekizzle
well getting my parts list ready for them...hope they will do some custom work???? i want to go all out HD aluminum part's with a 1.20 gms plane engine for a project...insane!! but cool too!! thats the way i like it.... white knukle and all...LOL!

tanno

01-30-2006, 12:01 AM

Hehe. Is your EK not on it's back enough for ya?

I have finally painted the Jeep body. :rolleyes:
Pics will have to be later.....like tomorrow.

tanno

01-30-2006, 10:14 AM

Here's the newly painted Jeep body...with lights added.

jocktheglide165

01-31-2006, 07:17 AM

Where Can I Get This Truck At?

tanno

01-31-2006, 07:39 AM

You can check www.ebay.com for one that's broke in....but you may end up with a V1.

www.towerhobbies.com has them new at $439.00 USD.

Guys: If I can get someone to film my truck, I'll post videos. It's just too much fun driving the truck in 8-10 min spirts that I can't seem to get the phone out fast enough and drive at the same time. :D But, oh yeah, vids WILL come! :D

RCCARTMAN

02-01-2006, 09:07 PM

I have one at my store for $400

RCCARTMAN

02-01-2006, 09:09 PM

you can all my shop at (717)530-5200 and I also have 2 of them myself, 1 with the unlimited conversion which looks awesome with that Massive Red TTR Head

tanno

02-02-2006, 11:06 PM

These are the two videos I have for now. Sorry, these were taken at night and I had to brighten it up quite a bit just to be able to make the truck out.

Wheelie 1 (http://www.bigupload.com/download_file.php?id_file=B2851B93)

Wheelie 2 (http://www.bigupload.com/php/download_file.php?id_file=7F45EA9C)

Let me know if these don't work. They are in 3GP format. Quicktime and RealPlayer will play them.

tanno

02-05-2006, 10:18 AM

Here's some better testings of the MP 2-speed stuffed into the EK4.

Road Test (http://www.bigupload.com/php/download_file.php?id_file=A23F4ECC)

Dirt Test (http://www.bigupload.com/php/download_file.php?id_file=F4AF1C2D)

tanno

02-05-2006, 10:23 AM

Is anyone watching these? Or does anybody care anymore?

ekizzle

02-05-2006, 03:02 PM

Is anyone watching these? Or does anybody care anymore?

I only have windows media player on my PC. so I'm not able to view them. As a matter of fact I try to store all EK4 vids that I can. But I can't get these to work for me in the current format. :o

tanno

02-05-2006, 04:48 PM

They are viewable with Apple's Quicktime player. http://www.quicktime.com

hot pipe

02-14-2006, 07:22 AM

I am watching them too :) :) .just been busy working on snowmobiles.getting reeady for some winter fun.. :D
by the way sweet! paint on that body tanno

ekizzle

03-02-2006, 03:11 AM

Man I'm going to have to get my beast out this week end! I really have that itch again!

Chevy-SS

03-10-2006, 10:00 PM

Yeah, I got one of the 2-speed EK4 beasts and it's really a hoot to blast around with it. It is soooooo fast for such a big vehicle...........................

-

ekizzle

03-11-2006, 03:26 AM

Man! I still have not had a chance to get out since I last posted. Thank God I didn't charge everything back up! With all of my work lately I never got back to my beast! Maybe in a few weeks I'll be able to give her some time!

2 speed! Man I'm really wanting to get one on mine! I still run the 18 tooth bell and old style clutch and mine flys! I can only imagine with a 2 speed! Is yours the MSJ Two speed or the OFNA mod?

tanno

03-11-2006, 09:42 PM

By reading this thread, you'd know that mine is the OFNA mod. Smoking the clutch has not been an issue at all after I ground the vents in. I'm still using the stock slider clutches. BTW, I did get two sets of alluminum clutches from NovaRC through Ebay. I have them, but my stocker is still holding up.
I've also got a dual exhaust setup that I'm going to be installing soon, I may have to modify it a little to get it to work around my wheelie bar.

This is a pic of my vented bell. Sorry about the fuzzy, my camera doesn't take very good close-ups.

Chevy-SS

03-16-2006, 01:33 PM

..........Sorry about the fuzzy, my camera doesn't take very good close-ups.

Sometimes you're better off holding camera a few feet away and zooming in, then you don't need to worry about macro capabilities in your camera. Just hold camera still, let it auto-focus and snap the pic smoothly, without jerking the camera.

Take a few pics and you're always bound to get at least one very good one.

-

savagepicco26

03-16-2006, 07:27 PM

Is anyone watching these? Or does anybody care anymore?
when i click the link, i can't find anywhere to download the movie. there's just a ton of links for spam. i'd like to see them, but can't.

tanno

03-19-2006, 06:53 PM

I'm sorry, I'll have to fix that. It must have a time limit between downloads.

tanno

03-19-2006, 06:57 PM

Sometimes you're better off holding camera a few feet away and zooming in, then you don't need to worry about macro capabilities in your camera. Just hold camera still, let it auto-focus and snap the pic smoothly, without jerking the camera.

Take a few pics and you're always bound to get at least one very good one.

-

My camera does really 'zoom'. It just reduces the picture size. So, that doesn't help. It's just a sucky camera. If I back off enough to get the subject in focus, it's too small to see the details that I was after in the first place. I'll have to get a better camera. This one does not have optical zoom which is the best for details.

savagepicco26

03-19-2006, 06:58 PM

My camera does really 'zoom'. It just reduces the picture size. So, that doesn't help. It's just a sucky camera. If I back off enough to get the subject in focus, it's too small to see the details that I was after in the first place. I'll have to get a better camera. This one does not have optical zoom which is the best for details.
does it have a macro function? usually a little flower icon.

tanno

03-19-2006, 07:00 PM

does it have a macro function? usually a little flower icon.

nope.

ekizzle

06-14-2006, 03:57 AM

Hello,
Any Ek4 people get a chance to bash with some of the newer trucks?

tanno

06-14-2006, 09:58 AM

I've been busy with other things like my real truck project, but I'd planned on getting a Revo 3.3.

crazyjr

07-12-2006, 11:59 PM

Hello all, I just bought an EK4S2 today from a hobbyshop that it had sat for so long that the box faded. the sticker said 489.00 and the owner sold it to me for 350.00, just to move it out, because he is going to just planes and heli's. Will Morgan Coolpower 30% work as a fuel, or is there another that works better? Is it possible to use a clutch form an Ofna, HPI or Mugen as the stock clutch looks a little weak?

tanno

07-14-2006, 09:41 AM

The CoolPower fuel will work just great, they do have a 20% oil content. I use Magnum 30% Heli fuel because that's what's available in my area. I cannot find CoolPower within a reasonable drive from my house.

As for the clutches, no...use the stock, or look on ebay for the Novatek EK-4 alluminum clutches they have now. I heard they hold up, but I'm still on the stock one.

If you read through this whole thread, you'll see that I've installed an Ofna Monster pirate two-speed tranny and set it to wheelie as it's hitting second gear (wheeling in first is no problem -- keeping it on all fours is). I vented the ofna clutch bell and still using my stock clutch and have yet to slip it. I did have slipping issues at first (before the two-speed) and had to lightly sand the glaze off the clutch, but I've only had to do that twice and I ride mine really rough.

Keep me informed and I'll help guide you to enjoy your truck. Welcome to the REAL Big Block truck!

Chevy-SS

07-17-2006, 02:24 PM

.......you'll see that I've installed an Ofna Monster pirate two-speed tranny ..............

Hey tanno, would you happen to have a parts list to do the two-speed conversion? I have one EK4 with a 2-speed and I bought the tranny kit from MSJ a couple of years ago. I think MSJ is out of business now?????

I'm buying another EK4 for a second manic basher. 2-speed tranny really turns the EK4 into a rocket, heheh................

I got other bashers, but for sheer speed and power, nothing equals the EK4.

-

tanno

07-19-2006, 04:07 AM

Hey tanno, would you happen to have a parts list to do the two-speed conversion? I have one EK4 with a 2-speed and I bought the tranny kit from MSJ a couple of years ago. I think MSJ is out of business now?????

I'm buying another EK4 for a second manic basher. 2-speed tranny really turns the EK4 into a rocket, heheh................

I got other bashers, but for sheer speed and power, nothing equals the EK4.

-

http://www.midmad.com/ek4/2speed/ek42speed.html <-- This guy listed everything needed. I did sum it up on page 42; here's a quote from that post.

(Sorry for re-posting moderators but, some people don't know how to look for info.)

I did order the steel gears....I just don't trust plastic.

Obtained by Ace Hardware Hobbies (http://www.acehardwarehobbies.com):

1 x GEAR SET SCREW ON BELL 12/16 (OFN18908) = $11.96
1 x 2-Speed Steel Gears (OFN1891*) = $47.96
Spur Gear Size 48/52T #18911
1 x 2-SPEED GEAR BOX (OFN18990) = $111.96
1 x Clutch Shim Kit (OFN10099) = $4.95
------------------------------------------------------
Sub-Total: $176.83
Tax: $0.00
UPS Ground - 0.6 lbs.: $7.95
Total: $184.78

I ordered and installed this stuff under the guidence of http://www.midmad.com/ek4/2speed/ek42speed.html

Good luck! I broke a previously bent front universal bone.....waiting on replacement.
My truck is now known as the EK4 Pirate. :D

BTW, This setup still works like a charm, I've broken many other shafts and shocks in the time that has elapsed. I will try to keep progresses updated.

Chevy-SS

07-19-2006, 09:13 AM

Many thanks for "re-posting" the info. But what am I supposed to do, read through over a thousand posts, just on the off chance that you listed the parts somewhere?

I used to go to that MidMad site, I think that's how I got my first 2-speed kit, back when MSJ was making them. The MSJ kit fit right in with no mods required. Real nice kit..........

Thanks again for info....................

Chevy-SS

07-19-2006, 09:33 AM

Tanno, I didn't see a "Triple H top plate" on your parts list. What did you use for a top plate?

-

tanno

07-19-2006, 11:34 AM

Tanno, I didn't see a "Triple H top plate" on your parts list. What did you use for a top plate?
-

I'm sorry I didn't list that, but that is what I had at the time. I modified it as needed. It does need to be listed, but it's not availible from the same source that I know of.

Chevy-SS

07-23-2006, 03:24 PM

I just bought a used EK4. The piston ring was seized to the piston, so it wasn't running properly. The ring had rusted in place, obviously cause someone ran it and didn't use after-run oil. Most small engines use only the fit between the sleeve and the piston to seal the compression chamber, but the .70 uses a piston compression ring.

So, a note of caution to all you EK4 lovers out there; use after-run oil when you put your truck away. It's especially important on a ringed engine, such as the .70

-

Chevy-SS

08-02-2006, 01:10 PM

I am looking to buy EK4 parts, so if you have anything, let me know.................

-

tanno

08-03-2006, 09:58 AM

I am not as ultra-conservative as others out there. I haven't used after-run oil or anything like it. I have no problems with my engines. I'm going on my third gallon on this EK-4. (This is my second because the first got stolen) If you just bring your piston to near top dead center when setting it up for more than a month, then there won't be any issues unless you're planning on stowing it for years....that's when I'd consider it. I mean really, how many of you out there put anything like after-run oil in a dirt bike after every run? A snowmobile? Your car?
The biggest issue with Nitro is that it attracts water vapor, if you leave the piston open to the world, then it's going to draw it in, the after-run oil keeps that vapor from rusting any parts. Now, if you don't have a piston open to the world, the vapor now has to get through the oil sealed rings. This will happen, but at a MUCH slower rate.

Anyway, sorry.....that's just my 2¢.

Chevy-SS

08-04-2006, 08:35 AM

The biggest issue with Nitro is that it attracts water vapor, if you leave the piston open to the world, then it's going to draw it in..................

Yes, you're right, nitro fuel is "hydroscopic", which means it attracts water.

Now, say you put away your engine and it's got fuel in it. The piston doesn't have to be "open to the world"; the air is going to get into the engine through the carb and exhaust pipe. Air contains the moisture that will cause the rust, and there you go. You got a problem.

If there was ever an engine that needed after-run oil, it's the ringed engine of the EK4. Storing this engine without proper maintenance will kill it for sure.

-

tanno

08-04-2006, 11:21 PM

I agree, but using after-run oil after every run is not considered "when storing".

Chevy-SS

08-05-2006, 10:15 AM

Yeah, "storing" is the key word there.

-

Chevy-SS

08-05-2006, 06:07 PM

loadedzz

09-18-2006, 04:52 PM

Hi, my EK4 still lies in pieces cause my piston ring is broken
and it didnt come with the head gasket. :( I desperately need those
parts. Does anyone know where i could order those. I live in
the Netherlands, so a source in Europe would be best for me.
thanks

loadedzz

09-18-2006, 05:29 PM

Sorry, im an idiot.
these guys have just about everthing

http://www.quicktechhobby.com/Car_Accessories/Thunder_Tiger_parts.htm

never heard of em before.

Chevy-SS

09-19-2006, 07:35 AM

Thanks for the link. I was gonna suggest Ace Hobbies, but it sounds like you're all set.

Be sure to carefully clean out the groove in the piston that the ring sits in. The ring needs to fit in there perfectly.

Let us know how your rebuild works out.

tanno

09-19-2006, 09:58 AM

Sorry, im an idiot.
these guys have just about everthing

http://www.quicktechhobby.com/Car_Accessories/Thunder_Tiger_parts.htm

never heard of em before.

Wouldn't you be better off ordering from a shop like this one? http://www.modelsport.co.uk

They are in the UK and you should get the parts faster. Quick Tech Hobby is the US distributor for Thunder Tiger. If you're in the Netherlands...ordering from a US distributor that has to order it from Japan not only makes no sense, but also will take a lot longer. I live in the states and it takes about three weeks to get parts from QTH.

You would be looking at about 4-6 weeks.

Just my 2 cents.

tanno

09-19-2006, 10:01 AM

CLUTCH - Man, I just bought and installed one of these Nova aluminum clutches into an EK4, and this clutch is terrific! Highly recommended. You will need to increase spring tension (shorten the spring) though, as this clutch is about 30% heavier than the stocker, which means the clutch engages too soon. Or, you could lighten the shoes by carefully drilling some small holes.

These shoes are beautifully machined, in typical Nova style. They make some great stuff............

http://www.novarcproducts.com/ek4photos/ek4clutchshoemedium.jpg

Here's a link to their eBay store:
http://stores.ebay.com/Nova-RC-Products

PS - I just ordered another one of these clutches.......

-

I've got two pair of these, but haven't tried them. I got them after glazing the stock clutches a couple of times. After I vented the bell, the stocks are holding just fine no matter how many wheelies in second gear I hold or pull.

I'm still on the first set of clutches that the truck came with. I just sanded the glaze off of them the two times that they did glaze (before venting).

Chevy-SS

09-20-2006, 07:31 AM

Tanno,

Yeah, I agree that the stock clutches work great. But I recently bought a slightly used EK4, in which the guy had never serviced the clutch and it was toasted. I had a couple of other sliders (different brands), but they didn't work well at all.

Is the stock clutch still available anywhere?

-

loadedzz

11-04-2006, 05:55 PM

Wouldn't you be better off ordering from a shop like this one? http://www.modelsport.co.uk

They are in the UK and you should get the parts faster. Quick Tech Hobby is the US distributor for Thunder Tiger. If you're in the Netherlands...ordering from a US distributor that has to order it from Japan not only makes no sense, but also will take a lot longer. I live in the states and it takes about three weeks to get parts from QTH.

You would be looking at about 4-6 weeks.

Just my 2 cents.

the parts just came in.
it took 7 weeks total. Well, at least its running again.

Chevy-SS

11-05-2006, 08:08 AM

Yeah, I had to order parts recently from Quick Tech Hobby and it took a little while, but still pretty fast.

I had ordered from Ace Hobbies over two months ago, and they said they just couldn't get the parts. Just regular parts is all I was looking for, some chassis pieces, nothing unusual..........

-

loadedzz

11-06-2006, 10:48 AM

whoa,
I forgot how awesome this truck is. Truly is a monster.
The engine stalls allot though. Is there a setup guide for the .70 on the net?
This is my first and only 3 needle engine.

Chevy-SS

11-07-2006, 09:05 AM

http://www.midmad.com/ek4/settings/ek4settings.html

There's a great site devoted mainly to the EK4. That link takes you right to his tuning tips.

For stalling issues, I would check out this page:
http://csgbenefits.org/mgt/stalling.htm

As you know, the .70 engine is a ringed engine. What you might not know is: if the ring is sticking in its' groove, it won't allow full compression and it will stall. So if you try all the tricks at that link and it still stalls, then take the engine apart and gently work a bunch of penetrating oil into the ring, until, the ring moves around nice and easy on the piston. However, be careful when you put the piston back into the sleeve. There is a small locator pin in the groove, and the ring gap needs to end up on that locator before the piston goes into sleeve........

-

ekizzle

12-19-2006, 01:57 AM

O.K. I've moved from Dayton Ohio to Richmond Indiana. Since the move I have not run my EK4. I bought some brand new MSJ diff cases for it and I put them on the truck and said "I'll run it later". So later came and my glow plug ignitor went. So I never could remember to go to the LHS and get a new battery. So it has set quite a while. When I used to live in Dayton my brother would call or come a get me and we would break out the trucks. He has a really sweet Monster Pirate with a G1 motor,metal two speed etc...

Well I haven't spoke with him in a while and the truck stayed put up. So yesterday I decided to go ahead to the LHS. I bought the battery and check to see what was new. I left the store although the LHS owner hates Ace and will not carry anything TTR for that reason. This isn't the first time I've heard this. The guy ask me why I wanted a truck so over powered? I said to him if I had to explain it to him. He would never understand. I think it's as simple as Monster truck = monster power and you get as much as you can! I mean that's like those who say " too much cheese" or "breast to large" I mean do I need to explain? Oh well I got my battery and I was ready to go. ;)

I took the truck to the basement after charging it all up and she cranked as though I've been running her every day! tomarrow I will be going to the fields! Man I can't believe I forgot how great this truck is. The power is addictive. :wave:

rawdy rider

12-20-2006, 10:41 AM

i had a ruynaway with my Ek.Hit some rocks and overturned with engine revving.After that just would not start.Hobby shop guy told me to check the ring if its broken.It was,happens cos of sudden unloading.Thought this might help some of you experiencing similar mishap.........

ekizzle

12-22-2006, 01:33 AM

Oh man I hate to hear that! I know my ringed motor has been running strong and I've rebuilt my O.S. CVR twice ( on my T-maxx) and It seem I have not lost a single step with the .70! Having said this I must say if you do the .70 right it will last you much longer then a standard motor! I'm knocking on wood of course. But keep it really rich and it will run for a long time!

Chevy-SS

12-22-2006, 01:25 PM

I've had a couple of runaways with minimal damage.

The ringed engine is very sturdy, but you need to use after-run oil religiously, otherwise the ring will rust up and freeze in the piston.........................

-

ekizzle

12-23-2006, 02:59 AM

I can't say I use after run but I do spray the truck down inside and out with WD40 it works great to cut through the crud and it keeps the truck running great. I'm going to use after run in the future as cheap as it is!

BudBud

12-23-2006, 10:38 PM

I want to thank all you guys for the wealth of information and entertainment you have shared on this forum. I ordered one and am in the hurry up and wait mode. Holiday deliveries! Anyway, I hope to be doing the long break in soon, looking forward to the wheelies and hoping we are not too hard on parts. Glen

Chevy-SS

12-24-2006, 12:45 PM

Still looking for a 2-speed setup. If anyone has one they want to sell, please let me know.

BudBud, good luck with your new EK4. Keep us posted............

ekizzle

12-26-2006, 02:40 AM

:D Man I just got my beast out again and took a spin around the yard. I forgot how this beast will lift the front end up and wave at you!! LOL! I have to relearn how to drive this truck. I tend to forget that I need to put the front end down to turn! I find it crazy how at any speed I can pick the front end up off of the ground! Once you get your EK4 broke in up and running there simply isn't anything like it!

ekizzle

12-26-2006, 02:45 AM

Here's a link for a toppless EK4 doing it's thing!
http://s127.photobucket.com/albums/p152/prochargedta1/?action=view&current=EK-4.flv

BudBud

12-26-2006, 05:58 AM

That sure looks like fun, I'll be watching for a UPS package! Thanks for another great video.... Glen

ekizzle

12-31-2006, 04:22 AM

I think when people see clips like this they thing this truck needs a boat load of hop ups to perform like that. The EK4 in that vid does not appear to be drasticly hopped up. (At least not to increase performance) This is standard behavior patterns for the EK4! LOL!

I don't know the guy who posted this vid at Mid madden but I want to say he did a good job! :D

BudBud

12-31-2006, 05:44 AM

It arrived yesterday! 12-30-2006; I have the radio equipment installed, the throttle and steering servos in and adjusted, now I need fuel! I failed to get by the local shop for fuel yesterday and he closed early. I guess that will give me two days to tighten and locktite all the screws. I bought another one tonight on ebay (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ih=008&sspagename=STRK%3AMEWN%3AIT&viewitem=&item=180067225182&rd=1&rd=1). Is that somebody's truck off of these forums? It sure appears to have been used, hopefully not used up! Glen

ekizzle

12-31-2006, 10:22 PM

I fyou can get the 20% Oil Cool power 30% nitro it works the best! I have a first generation truck and I have ran nothing else and it has not lost a step! with the 18 tooth clutch bell I'm doing 45 MPH + with the stock tires! All on the rear two wheels!

BudBud

12-31-2006, 10:31 PM

I'll try, the manual recommends a lower Nitro content for break in. I have read though that they run cooler on 30. I would think the rpm and heat would be the injuring factors on a new engine. Like all engines, a little common sense and maintenance will go a long way! Thanks for the tip. Glen

Chevy-SS

01-05-2007, 01:12 PM

30% heli fuel is the way to go.......

-

ekizzle

01-07-2007, 02:04 AM

Here is a link to finding it in bulk if you cannot find it locally!
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXGHB5&P=0

RicMic

01-10-2007, 09:08 PM

And I ordered an EK-4. I had a Savage for 2 years and put bigger and bigger engines on it looking for that big power. I can't wait to try out the big power of the EK-4!

chrisnz

01-10-2007, 10:27 PM

Yer i have one just recently as well. i can still attain parts locally and tonnes on the net.

for upgraded parts there are a few links

http://www.novarcproducts.com/index.html
and

http://www.billetwerks.com

im currently trying to source parts for the 2-speed conversion which uses the monster pirate 2-speed upgrade kit. if anyone has one second hand they want to let go please msg me details thanks.

BudBud

01-14-2007, 11:07 PM

I bought some Byron's 33 percent Nitro and added oil to the fuel. It seems ok, it is really cold here, less than 20 degrees today when I had it running. We have about 2" of ice, sleet and snow on the ground. This thing is crazy strong, it is nothing to carry the front wheels 40 to 60 feet, even on the snow pack. Steering is not worth a quack though, between light front wheels, no front wheels on the ground and plowing front wheels, I am in a sort of herd it in the general direction situation. It likes fuel and uses plenty of it, I have a lot of smoke anytime it is above idle and just fogs smoke under power. I'll give it another gallon or so before I lean it out any. Today I was running about 5 1/2 turns open on the high speed jet. Crazy power, all my neighbors know I am nuts now..... :cool: Glen

RicMic

01-19-2007, 03:52 AM

ekizzle

01-20-2007, 03:57 AM

I'm not sure every Ek4 person would agree with me on this one but the .70 basically is a ringed Heli motor. That being said I would suggest going with a heli Fuel. I personally have been running cool power from the start. I have never found a reason to try something new to be honest. So I have to admit I would not know how this motor would respond to the Traxxas fuel. Just keep you oil content up 20% for the most part. Last but not least run real rich and smokey! LOL! :D

Chevy-SS

01-20-2007, 08:53 AM

I ordered the servos and my choices were Hitec 645MG (133oz) for the steering and a Traxxas 2055 (88oz) for the throttle and brakes. Next up, the search for the servo battery. Any recommendation for that and the transmitter/receiver? Does anybody here run Traxxas 20% fuel?

Well, your servos are a tad on the weak side, but they'll work.

For a battery, you simply need a decent flat pack. I'd recommend 1400mah.

For radio setup, most anything will work OK. You can get something on the cheap. If it was me, I'd probably look for a JR XS3 setup on eBay, from a LST2. Lots of guys buy those trucks, but they don't need the radio. It's a real nice radio, fully synthesized so you can easily switch frequencies to avoid conflict.

RE: Fuel - - I agree with ekizzle. It's a heli engine, with a piston ring. It needs more oil. So use 30% heli fuel and it'll last almost forever.

-

ekizzle

01-21-2007, 12:10 AM

Yeah I would also say go with the most power you can get on the servos! you will need the response because when the front wheels do hit the ground you want them to respond! You will find there are faster trucks, Trucks with better susspension and over all handling. But nothing and I mean nothing comes close to the raw power and fun factor of this truck! I have come to realize that if a person has to ask "why a heli motor" " why so much power" "don't you think that's over powered" ? they will never understand the EK4!

RicMic

01-21-2007, 02:31 PM

I have run a 133oz steering servo in a Savage with 7" tires and it seemed to turn fine. That truck weighed 14 pounds (on a fish scale). If I find that I would like more turning power, I'll move the Hitec 645MG to the throttle/brake and put an Airtronics 200oz on the steering.

I'm still wondering about the fuel. The manual calls for 15% nitro with 5% to 30% being acceptable. Most folks are running Cool Power 30% but some are running other %'s and as little as 5% and are reporting that the truck runs great.

Also would heat cycling apply to this ringed engine or just break it in as per the manual? That brings up another point. The manual calls for 10 tanks run rich, just driving it around slowly then begin leaning it out so that temps stay below "the mid 200's F". Some are saying 1 to 2 gallons before break-in is complete, why? After break-in what temp are you running your EK-4? 220, 235, 250....?

Then there is the glow plug. The manual calls for a McCoy MC59 as a good choice. What plug are you running?

BudBud

01-21-2007, 03:04 PM

I could not find Cool Power so I bought Byron's 33 percent heli fuel. I added eight ounces of oil to the gallon to bring up the percentage. It seems to make really good power and has been discharging quite a bit of smoke. It has been below 30 degrees every time I run it and the head is just warm to the touch. I am wondering if it is running too cool to break in properly. My other EK4 is broke in and will just about do wheelies at any speed. I think they should have steering brakes, to help aim them in another direction when the front tires are airborn. :D Have fun! Glen

ekizzle

01-21-2007, 11:44 PM

I run around 200 or so. I keep it really rich! This thing guzzles fuel so a gallon does not seem very long for slow break in. I'm a very patient person so I did a whole gallon. But keep in mind my Ek4 is 1st generation. So we had to go through the mis-print in the manual and other issues. So it came through trial and error for everyone to run a gallon through it before giving it a beating. I personally do not use the carb restrictor because I never had issues with tuning. So I can't give much advice on tuning. but I hope this helps. :D
I can honestly say even though I have planes etc.... I really think my EK4 is my most fun R/C. I can also say I've had my issues along the way! LOL! have fun!

Chevy-SS

01-22-2007, 09:11 AM

http://www.midmad.com/ek4/settings/ek4settings.html

There's the best EK4 site on the internet, though it's a little outdated now. Still a ton of good info there. That links takes you to the tuning page.

Heat cycling is not really needed IMO, as this is a ringed engine. The heat cycling break-in is most appropriate for nitro engines with no ring. However, I would certainly take it kinda easy for five or six tanks. Just be sure you always see a trail of smoke and check the temps.

In real cold weather, it's necessary to be overly rich. You'll make a ton of power, and it's easy to be on the lean side, so be careful. Nitro engines always run strongest just before they blow up, LOL!

BudBud

01-25-2007, 05:23 AM

What are you guys doing for parts? Is there a good source here in the US? Thanks in advance! :)

RicMic

01-25-2007, 03:21 PM

thundertiger4u.com, Ace Hobby, or eBay.

ekizzle

01-26-2007, 03:41 AM

I can only say get'em where ever you can and for the cheapest price!
However ;) I have heard nothing but good things about thundertiger4U. com!

RicMic

01-30-2007, 09:16 PM

Well, after some research I have desided, before driving the EK-4, that stronger servos were in order. I went with a Bluebird 190oz for the steering and the Hitec 133oz for the throttle/brake. As for fuel if I can get Cool Power 30% locally I go with that however, if not it's going to be Traxxas 20%.

BudBud

01-30-2007, 09:28 PM

We went out and burned about six tanks of fuel today, had a blast. It is still cold here, but the tiger knows no better. We have learned to take it in the truck with us when we warm up, the starting is much easier.

Does anybody have a replacement wheel recommendation? The original wheels are quite fragile and have an unusually deep offset. You can save me some try it and see if they work money, I hope! Thanks!

Chevy-SS

01-31-2007, 08:09 AM

I bought some replacement wheels a few years back. Can't remember the brand. But they are 17mm with the full offset. If you go to any big hobby shop, you can probably find wheels (and tires) that will work. Also, look in Tower Hobby web site. Bottom line, it's fairly easy to find replacement wheels. They are NOT the exact factory wheels, but the work. I bought a extra set of factory wheels/tires from eBay.

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ekizzle

01-31-2007, 05:27 PM

I know alot of people use the Ofna dominator wheels and tires to preserve the drive train and better handling. I personally do not like them because I feel it cost me to much on the topend. But you will find that everyone is different. For me the stock wheels and tires are great! Heck I even love the stock set up on the suspension but I may be a stange one LOL! ;)

I know alot of people have burned up clutches but I have my very first clutch and my truck is 1st generation with stock wheels and tires! Of course I almost never get to run (I own a small business) but when I do bash I ride it hard. I also split my time up with my oldschool maxx as well. I personally think if you give this truck care and know the flaws (clutch,diffs etc...) and make sure you don't add stress to these areas. This truck can treat you pretty good over the years. I love mine. For me it's the best R/C ever made! :p

BudBud

01-31-2007, 07:07 PM

Thanks guys, we did some back yard playing in the new snow today, wheelies in the snow, that is just crazy! Glen

RicMic

01-31-2007, 10:03 PM

As I understand it the new Savage X wheels are 17mm, not sure about the off set though. These tires are 6" tall and really expand over 35mph.

ekizzle

03-06-2007, 01:17 AM

I can't say I'm in the market for a new MT. I love my EK4 however I'm not under any false idea that it's the cutting-edge of the R/C MT market. However I cannot say that I've seen anything that has moved me to believe that I need another monster truck. I know by today's standards the suspension is less then stunning and the handling is not the greatest. But isn't that why I put so much into my buggy and on road R/C's?

I love the MT's for it's pure brute force. Now with that in mind is there anything out there that says I need to drop $500 plus buck? Is there anything like the EK4 out there? Believe me I can apprecieate the after market support of the Revo, T-maxx and savage etc... but I still have not seen anything in the power realm makes me want to park my Ek4. So I'm curious with all of the so-called big blocks. Is there a .28 or .46 .36 etc... that behaves like the .70? if so please post some vids so I can take a look!
At this point I feel that the EK4 is the perfect MT for me. However my mind is very open.

BudBud

03-06-2007, 02:21 AM

I have a couple of RC10GTs and a couple of TT EB-4 buggies. One of my RC10GT trucks has an 18 on it and is crazy fast, we chase cars down the street with it all the time. It will catch a 30 mph car in about 150 feet. The tough part is keeping it from blowing tires off of the wheels. The TT buggies are fast too, but they lack the big torque that makes the EK so much fun. I know there are trucks out there that will outrun the EK. There is nothing that I am aware of that has the strength and simplicity of the EK. Besides, that 70 engine has a sound all its own. It is amazing what the EK will hop with a quick blip of the throttle. Chew it up and spit it out. :D Life is good.... :cool: It will take a pretty amazing truck for me to park mine as well. I just wish TT parts were easier to find. BB

RicMic

03-06-2007, 10:14 PM

I would like to change the CB to 16T or 18T. Do they make these or do I have to convert it (with what?).

BudBud

03-15-2007, 05:12 PM

I need to stay off of EBAY! There was a low mileage, looking new EK4 there this morning with a buy it now of 150. Needless to say, we now have three... :D BB

Chevy-SS

03-16-2007, 09:20 AM

I need to stay off of EBAY! There was a low mileage, looking new EK4 there this morning with a buy it now of 150. Needless to say, we now have three... :D BB

Oh yeah, I know the feeling! If I had seen it, I woulda bought it too, hehehhhhhhhh, then I woulda had 4..................... $150 is a no-brainer, especially if you already have one.

Man, you made me go and look on eBay, LOL. Last year, there were quite a few EK4 parts around, but basically nothing now. Although, there is a EK4 with a starting bid of $1,600, hmm, maybe I'll get that one. NOT!

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Chevy-SS

03-16-2007, 10:32 AM

ekizzle

03-24-2007, 03:09 AM

Any fellow Ek4ers get bash time in lately? I havn't even been able to drag mine out of my closet. :wave:

BudBud

03-24-2007, 04:54 AM

:D :D Drained my second gallon of 30 percent heli fuel, these things are a blast! :D :D Too bad it is supposed to rain here all weekend, we might be able to do serious damage to a third gallon. :D :D BB

ekizzle

03-28-2007, 10:26 PM

Man I still have not had the time to go out yet! if you get vids please post them.

BudBud

03-28-2007, 11:28 PM

:D I am bad, the one I found on Ebay for 150 arrived and looks brand new. I am almost afraid to blast away with it, I doubt it has enough time on it to be broken in yet. I am waiting for two new servos to arrive and we will be out seeing how it runs. Looks nasty this weekend, might have to design some pontoons to lash on to the sides. :D If it turns off nice on Sunday, let the snoke fly! Glen

ekizzle

03-30-2007, 12:53 AM

150! Man that's crazy! I'm ancient I have no clue on how to use ebay. I think you have inspired me to learn! 150! :D

RicMic

03-31-2007, 10:19 PM

Finally started running my EK today. I went with CoolPower 15% and followed the recommened brake-in procedure. After 8 tanks I have the engine running between 200 and 210 degrees. Fun Fun Fun!!!

BudBud

04-01-2007, 12:52 AM

I bought another, no tires, no wheels, no electronics, no engine.. the chassis looks new and all the drive train is there. The body looks new, I wonder what the story on this one is? Anyway, they got me for 65.50 and 15. freight. 80.50, I figured it was worth that for the shafts, axles, differentials, shocks, steering, bumpers and spare chassis, not to mention a really nice body. It is nice to know I have those parts waiting for me to break something. :D Now if the .70 will just keep churning up Mother Earth.. :D Glen

ekizzle

04-04-2007, 10:48 PM

The EK4 simply is a "R/C experience" I know every one loves thier trucks and all are as different as finger print. But the Ek4's power and antics makes this truck unique on to itself. It simply has to be experienced. What else can be said LOL!!! :D

BudBud

04-06-2007, 08:19 AM

It is kind of like driving a big block Nova. It has more torque than needed, but it sure is fun! Novas did not do wheelies though, the EK4 loves a good wheelie!

Glen288

07-21-2007, 02:28 AM

We fired up the Ek4s yesterday and made a lot of smoke, pulled our fair share of wheelies, and burned more fuel than we could burn in 48 hours in our RC10GTs. Nothing is quite as much fun though as the Ek. :)

rawdy rider

07-26-2007, 07:18 AM

Chevy-SS

07-27-2007, 10:51 AM

hello all back after a while.Any decent aftermarket diffs out lately??I put in eb-4 buggy shocks in mine in place of those stupid plastic ones,but the diffs bother me.Last set of diff gears wore out without any abuse at all!!Very bad TT!!!

Which diff gears are you ruining? It's usually just a matter of shimming the ring/pinion to eliminate all play.
http://www.midmad.com/ek4/shim/ek4shim.html
Go there for a diff-shim explanation, and plenty of other great EK4 info!!

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