ZipZap Monster Truck Wheelie Bar

  Introduction
monster truck with added wheelie bar
click on the image for a larger view 		     This article provides instructions for building a simple wheelie bar for a ZipZap Monster Truck.  The bar, used in my case to prevent back flips, uses existing threaded holes for attachment to the body.
 
     The MT used here is a stock Radio Shack ZipZap Monster Truck, with my own modifications to the antenna and gear box, neither of which are necessary to complete the wheelie bar addition.
 
     Construction is so easy that little instruction is needed.  I'll rely on images to provide the details.  
  Parts
     The following parts are required:
  • a 6-inch piece of .020-inch diameter brass rod
  • a 0.850 x 0.250 x 0.031-in brass bar
 
  Tools
     The tools needed for this project are:
  • small Phillips screwdriver
  • Dremel tool, or equivalent, with cut-off discs
  • small pliers or a small vise
  • soldering gun and small diameter rosin-core solder
  • flat jeweler's file
  • moderate patience
 
  Modifying the Chassis
  • Remove the body from the chassis and set the body aside.
  • Remove the back wheels and the axle gear and set aside.
  • Remove the two screws at the back of the rear differential and set aside.
  • With a flat file, remove a part of the plastic gear protector, as shown in the accompanying picture.
 
  Building the Wheelie Bar
  • Bend the brass rod to shape, then cut to length slightly longer than necessary.
  • Cut the brass bar to a length slightly longer than necessary.
  • Mark and drill mounting holes in the brass bar.
  • Mark and file the charger notch in the brass bar.
  • Clamp and solder the brass rod to the brass bar.
  • File the brass bar and brass rod to the proper length.
  • Before attaching, paint the assembled wheelie bar, if desired.
  • Replace the axle gear, rear wheels, and body.
 
  Attaching the Wheelie Bar
     To attach the wheelie bar to the chassis, simply use the differential screws, or replace them with fasteners of your own choosing.  The pictures below show how my wheelie bar looked prior to its painting.
bottom view   top view   rear quarter view
click on the images for larger views
     Test fit the Monster Truck to the charger base.  The thickness of the brass bar and mounting screws might prohibit proper attachment.  I found it necessary to remove a slight amount of plastic from the charger base to ensure adequate attachment.