WK Tie Rod and 4-link Material

[MrActionTracks]

Anyone building their own tie rods and four links, what material are you using? I've got M3 tie rod ends and set screws, and was going to build my own tie rods, but can't find material to thread the set screws into. 1/8 aluminum tubing is too small and stretches the aluminum when I try to thread it. 5/32 aluminum tubing is too big. M4 Carbon tubing with M3 interior diameter is too large for the set screw to grab. I'm trying to stick with the factory M3 hardware if I can.

This is my first R/C and it is fun, but finding material is tough. I've been adding 4 wheel steering and moving the servos. Thanks for the advice.

 

[northerngames]

I used the traxxas turnbuckles for my links and they come with ends already installed.

the one's I used have a 12.5" wheelbase with no modding of the links needed.

I too am curious to see what other use for the own home made stuff though in all make and model material and size.

what works great and what is junk.

I will be doing a custom chassis built around mad force axles and ss trans and am going to need to also make my own custom lengths for all of it it if I can find a strong material to make my own out of.

I would preffer carbon arrow shaft but have not seen them in person to see if they are to thin and brittle but some 3d black carbon rods would work for me as long as they a sound structure wise.

 

[HDMM]

I picked up some aluminum tubing with the correct ID at ACE Hardware, I don't remember the size though, but I was able to tap them out with a M3 tap and make my own tie rods n such for my Tamiya CR01 Land Cruiser. May want to check ACE if you have one around.

 

[MrActionTracks]

I'll have to give Ace a shot. Lowes was no help for sure.

If anyone else knows any internal/external dimensions and wall thickness, that'd be great.

 

[OldSchoolDude]

Here's what you need... 3/16 x 0.049 wall tubing. http://www.ebay.com/itm/K-S-83060-Tappable-Aluminum-Tube-3-16x-049-/390764575402?pt=Radio_Control_Parts_Accessories&hash=item5afb623aaa

The ID works out to .0895". Then you need an M3 tap. I'm not sure whether your M3 rod ends are .5 or .6 thread pitch. See drill & tap chart. Then you'll need to open up the hole in the tubing slightly with a 2.5mm drill bit or 3/32 or #39 bit. 2.5mm is .0984" and 3/32" is .09375". This would give you just a little more thread engagement. I don't know if Lowes or Home Depot have an M3 tap, but they should have the 3/32 drill bit. If not, you could try McMaster Carr. http://www.mcmaster.com/#standard-taps/=qvr0ci
Remember to check your thread pitch.

 

[metalicagod]

i can make both for $45 shipped using 8-32 studs and revo rod ends.

 

[fatboy]

I use 1/4 solid Aluminum rod drilled and taped for 8/32 revo ends or Jato rods ends. Then I powder coat them to match what ever truck iam building

 

[JKRacing37]

I use 1/4" aluminum rod from the K&S bin at the LHS or through Tower Hobbies.