Axial Capra - Can Axial compete in the portal game?

The Axial Capra is the first attempt that Axial has made at competing in the portal market. I have found many things to like in this build, but also no shortage of issues to look at.
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[@telfow1]

dude, don't miss the opportunity to do a paint job honoring Jessie Combs and that tan rig of hers.

[@Stickies72]

Great video, and i agree about the manual. There were a few times when building when i had to stop and look at the parts to figure out what it was trying to tell me to do. I took mine out for a test run on the beach and I love it.......This is the best kit Axial has made so far, super articulation, great feel, and it can really handle a lot of of angle crawling. The ride height did not hinder me too much as i was mostly going over smooth rocks and at times the high clearance worked to my advantage. I am loving the new studio and am looking forward to seeing your run videos of this.

[@scalebuildersguild]

Do you even know how to paint?!

[@shannoncold]

hahahahahaaa

[@jeremyh3445]

One coat at a time

[@mikej8832]

Might I suggest orange.... Seems to be a trend 🤔

[@Ziggy8750]

🔥🔥🔥

[@yw9686]

@Barry Boppins good one.

[@rcs_rc_az961]

Great video on this rig buddy! Ive been on the fence for a few reasons on this kit however after seeing them in action and seeing some of the kit responses from axial has definitely pushed me closer to buying it! Thank you for this editorial!

[@billderas3420]

Josh. Great catches on the directions in the manual. Thank you very much.

[@trailcrawler2038]

Nice rig! Can't wait to see your running video.

[@rcf1x301]

Nice review! I'm waiting for mine in the mail now, so it was nice to get a heads up on what to pay attention to :)

[@509Hobbies]

Fantastic build as usual, love the background look in your video as well.

[@davemelanson8484]

Great video Josh, you covered things I can tell customers when they buy the kit. Thanks for the in depth info, keep up the great work.

[@jeremyh3445]

Thanks for the video Harley. Mine should arrive Friday :D I appreciate the heads up on the build tips. It’ll help me build it easier. I ordered a front axle, knuckles, CVDs and bearings. I’m gonna try to make it 4WS straight away. I got the same tires as you too! I think they fit the look of a WE crawler just perfect! All the best. Keep it up. Thanks for all you do!

[@kyleross1214]

Excellent video Josh! I think this is the most informative Capra build video yet! I took some notes wile watching so I know what to expect when getting started on mine and my wife's Capra's. Definitely looks like the manual might give some people that's new to kits some troubles. I can't wait to get started on mine. Also after hearing the final drive ratios, I'm second guessing my motor choice. I have a tekin roc412 3100kv laying around in the shop but I think I'll order something that's less kv now. Thanks for the awesome video man!

[@rcr0ck]

Awesome looking rig, can't wait for it to come out in Australia

[@TheRolands81]

Josh I really like your new studio set up. It looks very professional. Also, I was very skeptical about this new rib the more I see it the more I like it. Great video.

[@HarleyRider15]

Very cool, mine just shipped so will have it Wednesday.

[@longboardguy]

I’m really debating to buy this truck right now. This review was informative and I know everything I need to now for it! Looks like a nice kit besides a few manual issues. Want to buy it for a winter build and runner

[@andyrichey1192]

Looks awesome, Love the rims . Like to get a set of those for my VS4-10 Pro

[@dschenk952]

Thanks for the review. As my first kit I agree about the manual quality, wish it would have been better.

[@wblteen]

Great video. Every issue I had you mentioned except for one. I dont like how that idler gear is held in to the transmission, took a lot of messing around to get it to not bind up. I also think that if a lot of power is put into it the thin plastic housing may not be enough to hold it in

[@Warwick3511]

The updated instructions are out now and can be downloaded from Axial and horizon hobbies

[@tomandrews5392]

Can't wait to get my hands on one....got to be Castle powered here....

[@TheImtoomuch]

Good video. I agree the manual is bad. I also installed the incorrect size bearing on the axle input shaft initially. The quality is much improved over HobbiCo Axial. I'm anxious to finish mine and get it out on the rocks.

[@Lukipela01]

I want one so bad but I need to get some of my current rigs back on the trail first

[@matthealy563]

Silver and orange look awesome!

[@ekpauly]

Thank you for the honest review of the build. I’m guessing that the manual was made at another factory as well. What is the offset of the plastic bead locks compared to the vanquish 225 SLW with the methods?

[@camyota]

I'm glad you called it a spool and not a locker! Lol

[@camyota]

Really thinking about getting one of these.

[@hemitj]

Awesome video! Thanks for all the info! Wonder how hard its going to be to take those axles onto a SCX10 or 10.2 platform? B.T.W. LOVE your cat t-shirt!

[@dwaynekaye2000]

Pretty sure there is already a fix for the dig servo allowing the use of whatever servo you like. It's like a $7 part.people talking bout it on fb.👌 nice rig and keen to see how it performs on track.👍👍

[@alexcalley1928]

I'm really digging this truck so far. If I were you, I'd probably go for orange and black body panels and give it a run on the rocks before all the upgrades you usually run. I'm also assuming you'll be trying out the Incision shocks on there at some point as well.

[@MikelangeloPhoto]

Nice video! Great summary!

[@ajosepi1976]

If you want to use the stock Dig shift linkage and a 23 24 or 25 spline servo you can get part number AX31009 and get that part you need.

[@ramman347]

nice vid. I was able to use shorty packs with top banana connectors. u cut off bananas and soldered wire at 90 deg so they only stick out of batt 1/8 in.

[@rc-ingaroundamerica8792]

I picked mine up this weekend and agree the manual is not the greatest on this truck and noticed a few of the same items just reviewing the manual let alone building the truck

[@MattPecoraro]

Think I got lucky with the bearings. Did find out a 550 can won’t fit. Hits the rear link mount. So much for using what I already had.

[@aegixxer1]

I was on the fence, then I see this video...Thanks, now I just might build one to accompany the Enduro I built for C4C. That top portal gear will definitely be a failure point. Hopefully Axial or vanquish has an answer to it before it gets to be an epidemic. I can already hear the outcrys...

[@mathieufournierauger7978]

super video but could you explain how to configure the dig and gear mesh please because we are several in my group did not get there lol thanks

[@frankkrivitz3323]

Great video! Except the chimes playing in the back ground drove me nuts!

[@tombaker1516]

I like the adjustable rods, it's just made for competition.

[@Warwick3511]

I saw on the Capra FB group they are updating the manual. fixing the errors and adding 1:1 scale measurements for screws and bearings.

[@HarleyDesignsInc]

Yeah, I talked with them before the video about it.

[@nicholasbarber4193]

It looks like all it really needs are some 90mm Incision shocks and for someone to come up with a plate or adapter that will allow for a smaller pinion.

[@garettbodel3002]

Love the new studio looks really classy. What do you think is there going to be a Yeti 2.0. Or is there any interest in Arma building a rock racer. Anyways straight show always love to watch

[@rcvalley8706]

Great video! I vote for olive drab paint!

[@eldudearino3902]

Looks like I hit all the same problems in the manual. I just finished mine yesterday.

[@GrimJerr]

Got Mine this weekend, Buying - Hobbywing XR10 Pro G2 ESC & V10 G3R 25.5T Brushless Combo, Buying & Upgrades - F&R Steering with Reefs 444 Servos & Reefs 99 Mocro for Dig. Already have Hyrax Predator 1.9 on Treal Beadlocks, May swap for Spec RC Beadlock Wheels. Have - Radio & Receiver FS-GT5 for Crawl Modes Waiting for 1st Run to decide on shock upgrades. 1st CG Mod will be Samix Brass knuckle and portal covers w/scale Brake & Rotor F&R Eventually Custom Links to experiment with climbing Geometry Thanks for the Build Videos

[@PhoenixRCCrawler]

👍🏽🐒. The manual is a big part of what makes a good build experience a great experience. The UMG was disorganized and frustrating because of the manual for me personally. Thanks for the info.

[@robbryan3044]

The manual, despite some initial "errors" (which they're currently working on correcting), is excellent. If you've ever built a TLR vehicle, then you're already familiar with how the manual is written, as well as how all the parts are packaged.

[@PhoenixRCCrawler]

Robb Ryan I’m not sure what upset you so much about my comment. Do you write the manuals?

[@robbryan3044]

@@PhoenixRCCrawler I want upset. My apologies if you thought I was. From what I understand, previous Axial manuals were poorly written. Also, from what I understand, the Capra's manual, despite the errors (and, yes, I've discovered several errors, as others have), is a huge improvement over Axial's previous manuals. I have nothing to do with the manuals (I'm a professional chauffeur). All I was trying to do is let people know of Losi's involvement, and how people can expect future Axial build manuals to get even better. As for the Capra's manual, Rich, and his team, are working on correcting the problems. Once updated, the corrected version would be included in all future kits, plus it would be downloadable from the Capra product page. Personally, when I decided to get my second kit (1/10 2WD buggy), I had narrowed down my choices to 4-5 kits. Part of how I determined which to get was by downloading the manuals for each of the. As you said, yourself, "The manual is a big part of what makes a good build experience a great experience.". I took that to heart, even long before you said it, so, in comparing the manuals, I was looking for a kit that was well-organized, with a well-written manual. I won't say what brands the 'losers' were...but, the winner, by a considerable margin, was the TLR 22. I've built a few TLR kits since then, and I've greatly enjoyed building every one of them...partly because of the manuals. Now that Axial is fully integrated into the Horizon Hobby family, and had been taken "under the wing" of the Losi division, the manuals are bound to get better. My guess is, another 1-2 kits down the line, you won't be able to tell the different between a TLR-written manual, and an Axial-written manual (from what I understand, the Capra's manual was 100% Axial-written, with "assistance/suggestions" from having viewed several Losi/TLR manuals. When it comes time to select my second crawler, while I will probably check into other brands, I will probably still give a slight "preference" to Axial, knowing that Losi had at least a small hand in it (Losi plastic, which is excellent, is used for most of the Capra parts).

[@PhoenixRCCrawler]

Allow me to say that I’ve build four Axial SCX 10Iis a Bomber a Yeti TT and a few others from other manufacturers. I’m not new to the game. I know errors happen but to not put the one to one scale pictures on the page is a new one for Axial. End of line.

[@robbryan3044]

@@PhoenixRCCrawler As I said, the Capra is my first crawler.

[@RUSERIOUS76]

Spaz Stix Candy Orange. I wanna see a side by side between this and a VS4-10pro with dig installed. I know they're two different style rugs but would still be interested.

[@sgtlt]

very informative video, thanks

[@StratRC]

I tried to go from the stock 14t pinion that comes with it down to an axial branded 11t pinion and the clearances of the motor wouldn't allow it slide over enough to get proper gear mesh, and I'm using a very standard sized 540 can motor, so the gearing options really are quite limited.

[@kevinp2820]

Nice build...for a color choice how about bronze or copper, I think either would go good with those wheels.

[@Warwick3511]

I think the hole may be for adjusting the links in place with the left and right hand threads on the links.

[@HarleyDesignsInc]

It is, that’s what I meant being a tie rod (turn buckle). However that’s completely unnecessary in our market and just makes for a poor appearance.

[@JustinDDavis]

@@HarleyDesignsInc when I got into scale trucks a year ago...the links messed me up..hahaha..I was so used to turnbuckle style on bashers and racers. Oh well.

[@RTmadnesstoo]

Thanks for all of your work on a great video! It's nice to know what to watch for when assembling a kit. I think I saw somewhere that the new rod ends also had stainless steel balls. Is that true?

[@HarleyDesignsInc]

Yes, metal pivot balls all around. Very nice!

[@kevinw6282]

I think the bottom gear in the trans is 54T, would make trans overall 4.37 and overall rig 31.46, not much different but in the right direction.

[@manchinator7773]

Could the additional trans gear be there so you don't have to use a reverse rotation motor with the portals?

[@TheFlynryn]

Idle gear next to spur is a reverse gear.....cuz portals. Ya had same issues with my build. Servo saver was my biggest gripe. Not having a saver will burn out that tiny servo. Wish they included a way to use a bigger servo for dig. Going to take some special parts to make a bigger servo work. And space is at a premium in that spot. Can't wait to her in the rocks.

[@HarleyDesignsInc]

That could have been done inside the trans if that was the case and then you would be able to use standard style spur gears. So using only for reversing would be a poor reason.

[@dwaynekaye2000]

Spline Adaptor from Axiel fix's the dig prob.ax31009.👌👌

[@stratobungle]

if you want to use a different micro servo for the dig, pick up the old Axial Yeti part AX31009 for the missing servo saver parts in 23,24, & 25T...

[@jeremyh3445]

Team RRC2 the real MVP

[@andyrichey1192]

Black with True fire would look awesome

[@scottperry5454]

Have you ever considered using 18650 or 21700 cells instead of lipo? You could make a 3s 5000 about half the size/weight with adequate discharge rates

[@renobob7781]

Nice video Josh, very through 👍 The Capra is a must have. 🤠🇺🇸☝️

[@fernandoespinoza4379]

Idk if it happened to you but did you notice how much noise it was making or how tight the gears felt after installing the gear ?

[@roadrashracing1796]

Do you know if the vanquish portals are a direct bolt on, if you use the VP servo on axle mount?

[@michaelhoyle2665]

Looking forward to a running video. Thanks for the review. I definitely want one of these trucks. Could the idler between the spur and pinion be so you don’t have to run a reverse rotation motor with the portals like the TRX4 does?

[@HarleyDesignsInc]

That could have been done inside the trans easily and then give you the ability to adjust the spur normally, so that would be a poor reason why to include that.

[@nathanjohnson3564]

Nice, it is produced at the losi facility now right? I'm gonna buy it. My bomber needs a little brother.

[@fernandocabral6193]

I like the Capra but wouldn't get one myself cause I'm not into buggies I like trucks I'm a truck guy the only thing I would like to build close to the Capra is a truggie other then that it looks like a fun rig

[@braddahdussifyoumuss596]

Very good info my man🤙🏽👌🏽

[@kevingoodrich3050]

Is there a way to change the upper shock mount to lower the ride height ?

[@kirkin2006]

All of you are great specialists and it looks you know exactly what r you talking about, I ve learnt a lot from your videos but now I m a little too confused between sooo many alternatives. Im a newbie that's looking for a good crawler just to fun, ready to use, good brand, strong, durable, no pieces complication, no machine complication, budget between 400 and 700 $. What s your advice ??? Just brand and model would be enough, no need explain why. A BIG THANK!!!

[@HarleyDesignsInc]

If you want simple, durable, and inexpensive. Then I’d go with the sport: bit.ly/2AAKmr0 That will leave you budget for batteries, Charger, etc. you can check out my Budget Build series for future ideas once you get it also.

[@UncleMikeH]

I was given all this stuff for free, but it isn't up to my standards. First and last time watching your channel. ✌

[@HarleyDesignsInc]

So you don't understand how reviews work? You want someone to just sugar coat everything and not discuss the pros and cons?

[@MatthewJorgensen1968]

I have to agree that for experienced builders, the manual may be moot point if needed at all...

[@johnbasterson7938]

I agree, after building the same kit repeatedly. There is only one reason to disregard the instructions on a brand new model. Ignorance.

[@johnbasterson7938]

Moot*

[@Rc-Adventurers]

Which hole should I put my upper links in??

[@josh_rit8045]

Paint the body panels grey like the trx4 budget build

[@JDHitchman]

Another great video Josh! One question though, why are the VP wheels only .800" wide? Doesn't a wider 1" wheel spread the tires more and allow them to work better?

[@HarleyDesignsInc]

The method 105 1.9 is 1” wide, but the difference in performance is almost non-existent. Spreading out the tire isn’t always a pro, as a narrower patch could also increase pressure in one area. It’s just another factor of how you prefer to do things. I prefer the 0.8” width myself.

[@johngrant1337]

I would you vinyl wrap it is what it will take to look correct. I wish you had showed the trans mount. ( I would see if the gentleman from Scale Builders Guild would paint the panels.)He is a good painter for scale work. (tell Him no hillbilly theme)

[@barajastony0]

I'm still waiting on that little dam servo

[@imemovengeance]

I want to see what bodies will fit over the cage.

[@jamespalmer6986]

I want one of these !!!!

[@2x4barrels40]

I feel that one bearing on the front portal axle will become a problem . Too bad the rest looks great .

[@KTMcaptain]

So you’re saying the dig is RAD? (Rear axle disconnect).

[@cbix86]

Really like the direction of this rig and some nice touches on the design, but that manual is a bit of a joke for a £360 kit! Be interesting to see if axial have finally designed a shock that doesn’t leak too 😂

[@metalmulishaz123]

I have a axial Capra fws RTR, and I haven't had any issues with leaking shocks.

[@CasperRc81]

Seems like there is the vaterra scale rig design issue. I have two horizon products the super Rey and the barrage2. I like the super Rey but the hardware is extremely tight in the plastic like the twin hammers and irritates me rounding the hardware it all rusts also. The barrage2 is cool but it now is sporting a 1.9 wraith rtr trans with OG ax10 axles the stuff is junk. This kit just doesn’t seem “axial” to me idk. I do regret buying the super Rey and wish I bought the traxxas udr. Thx for the review and the instructions you went over is absolutely ridiculous thx you for the people like you!

[@paulclancy2404]

Really traxxaz over the sbr

[@brettskinner5824]

My favorite thing about this rig is approach and departure angle. Waiting to see peoplea thoughts really wanting a 6x6

[@grski900000000000000]

Love this channel bud 😃 could you answer this for me ,? Will the Capra axles fit the Axial UMG scx10ii , and the next question is will the vanquish currie axles fit the UMG ?

[@HarleyDesignsInc]

The Capra axle will not because they are not compatible with the 3-link setup. The Vanquish Curries axles will drop right in.

[@bigchungus-oj8zz]

Razor Sharp Review!! Spot on bro!! Subd 4lyphe

[@bryanmatheis2194]

Hi Harley, could you see installing Vanquish Portals on this kit vs the stocks? Or would that throw off the gearing pretty severe? I have some VP portals already and was thinking that might be a better fit on this kit.

[@HarleyDesignsInc]

The link geometry is totally different is the biggest issue. The gearing would be nearly the same. It would likely require a full set of links to do it.

[@urdonercjeremyburris7541]

The servo saver is the same as the yeti jr

[@tomandrews5392]

You use Futaba 4PX an how do you setup a switch to control a three step control of the dig unit...can you drop me a line to give me a idea how to do on a 7px controller...

[@HarleyDesignsInc]

Go to the dial menu, select the DT switch of your choice, set the step value to 100 (which is equal to 3 position). Make sure to set your end points properly for the dig or you will burn up servos.

[@christianjaytejamo4948]

Hi Mr Harley I need to make a pic bombeer or yeti

[@robbryan3044]

Yes, there are a few problems with the manual...but, Axial is working on correcting the errors. That being said, I've got mine built up through the transmission, and I haven't had any problems (except for one minor one, which I caused. The manual, packaging, and build, are very similar to TLR builds. Of course, this is probably because of some "integration" between these two Horizon Hobby-owned companies (a number of the Capra parts are manufactured in the Losi factory, using the same plastic that Losi uses in their TLR racing kits).

[@HarleyDesignsInc]

I made them aware of these issues before I put out the video, I talk with them pretty regularly. This whole vehicle is made in the same factory as many of the Losi/Vaterra products. The manual for this was done in Illinois by some guys who don’t have the same experience yet. It will all come together, just an unfortunate way to launch it. It’s still a solid truck though.

[@robbryan3044]

@@HarleyDesignsInc Rick has said they're working on a corrected manual, which should also include scale drawings for turnbuckles, etc. Said, once it's finished, he'll get it uploaded to the Actual Capra product page. Personally, I don't need scale drawings...that's what calipers are for. However, it would be nice to have correct part numbers...lol

[@ridgerc5976]

Is there any chance that they have revised the build manual since your review?

[@HarleyDesignsInc]

Yes it has been revised.

[@tomlucasrccrawlers9108]

After seeing this....I'm curious which rig would perform and be more fun to drive , your VS410 Pro/TRX4 axled rig or this Capra? ?!

[@HarleyDesignsInc]

I suppose it depends on where I was trying to drive it, Trail rig vs gate runner.

[@alvinmarin8648]

Please tell me there was an extra bearing left over in diff/dig bag? Everything moves nice and smooth. Also, does the long female part of the drive shafts go closest to the gearbox or towards the axles, or does it even matter? Thanks!

[@HarleyDesignsInc]

Did you forget the one that goes between the front and rear output in the center of the final gear?

[@HarleyDesignsInc]

It’s an odd location

[@alvinmarin8648]

@@HarleyDesignsInc I'll crack it open and see.. thanks.

[@alvinmarin8648]

Turns out it was one of the bearings on the gear that meshes to the pinion gear.. that was easy.

[@joss67uk]

Question on DIG's... Does the vehicle need to be stationary when you engage/disengage it or can it be done while moving?

[@OgFu3L]

Pending

[@nathanjohnson3564]

I believe you can unlock it in motion but I would stop to lock it so you dont chew gears.

[@dariuskittredge2821]

A nice blue color would set those wheels off.

[@sir2honda]

I wonder if Axial will release an updated manual? Maybe post a pdf update on their blog...hmm

[@Rich_Trujillo]

Working on it now...the updated version will be online by the end of this week.

[@erfwtf]

Crazy how much it looks like a GMade R1... Like total knockoff down to the axles... Too funny!

[@chriswebb383]

Basketfullof Puppies eh I’m literally not seeing anything similar

[@Ocd_rc]

Somebody may have already asked, how long do you anticipate before we will see stainless links from Incision for the Capra?

[@medievalpossum6504]

Michael Sharron no need in my opinion. They’re already stainless right?

[@metallicarulesable]

Michael Sharron the stock links are stainless and extremely nice. No point in them. By far the best links axial has ever made

[@Ocd_rc]

Yea I get that there are already stainless, there’s also a hole in the middle of them. I prefer incision links on all my rigs was hoping to get them for this at some point as well. My build is complete minus paint at this point.

[@RubyS.1]

What's fast for that type of vehicle you think. Top speed wise? In anyone's opinion

[@abelvelazco5450]

Brisk walking pace as fast as i would want it to go

[@danielemulazzi7309]

The Best !!!

[@BoneheadRc80]

Little disappointed, they didn’t anticipate people rear steering it. Rear chassis is tight. I ordered another steer axle, gonna see what happens.

[@fr8cture]

Do blue!